Among the invited actors were Idris Elba, Michael B. Jordan, Anthony Anderson, Gabrielle Union, Morris Chestnut, John Boyega, America Ferrera, Vivica A. Fox, Regina King, Nia Long, Eva Mendes, Nate Parker, Anika Noni Rose, Glynn Turman, Marlon Wayans, Loretta Devine, Chadwick Boseman and last year’s snubbed “Straight Outta Compton” star O’Shea Jackson Jr.

Directors who are now Academy members include Ryan Coogler (“Creed”), Amma Asante (“Belle”), Julie Dash (“Daughters of the Dust”), Cary Joji Fukunaga (“Beasts of No Nation”), Albert Hughes (“The Book of Eli”), Euzhan Palcy (“Siméon”), Dee Rees (“Pariah”), George Tillman Jr. (“Soul Food”), Luis Valdez (“La Bamba”), Keenan Ivory Wayans (“Scary Movie”), Haile Gerima (“Teza”), Shola Lynch (“Chisholm ’72 – Unbought & Unbossed”) and Melvin Van Peebles (“Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song”).

Also getting in for their soundtrack compositions are Mary J. Blige (“The Help”), Kathryn Bostic (“Dear White People”), RZA (“Django Unchained”), Marcus Miller (“About Last Night”), Raphael Saadiq (“Epic”) and Will.i.am (“Rio”).

MORE BLACC: Last week’s column featured much of our fascinating chat with recording artist Aloe Blacc in support of his concert opener of the Ford Signature Series on July 9.  That wasn’t all, however. He was quite opinionated about a couple of stories making current headlines.

On the NBA Finals Game 7 upset of the Warriors by the Cavs, Blacc, who was the anthem singer, admitted not understanding how it was possible.

“But such is the story and history is made,” he lamented. “Lebron gets a ring and Nike makes good on their billion dollar NBA license. Not to say that that has anything to do with it. I’m just saying great coincidence. Adidas lost the bid and Curry is their cat.”

Brexit, the UK’s departure from the European Union, had him elated.

“I kind of feel like maybe I can actually buy property in London now,” said the vocalist who first broke big over there. “The U.S. dollar is going to eventually surpass the British pound because the UK has no international exports.  They don’t really have anything other than banking. The Chinese, the Emirates and the Swiss are going to surpass them by far.”

CLIPPETTES: Mike Epps is currently in New Orleans shooting a heist caper film called “Supercon” with John Malkovich, Russell Peters, Maggie Grace and Clancy Brown …

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” continues to film in Atlanta with Garcelle Beauvais just added to the cast that also features Zendaya, Donald Glover, Hannibal Burress, Bokeem Woodbine, Abraham Attah (so memorable in “Beasts of No Nation”), Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr. and the new Spidy, Tom Holland …

PrinceOnlineMuseum.com was launched on July 4 to display 20 years of the artist’s official websites …

Bad girl Azealia Banks is performing at the El Rey Theatre on July 11 …

Tickets are on sale for the one-night only big-screen premiere of “Batman: The Killing Joke,” an animated feature length adaption of one of the greatest graphic novels ever, on July 25 for two shows. Visit FathomEvents.com for theatres and more.

TASTY QUIP: “I think diversity is the need of the hour. Look at the world around us. You can’t say the girl next door is a certain type anymore. And entertainment should be a reflection of society.” – PRIYANKA CHOPRA (“Quantico”) to InStyle.

TC ON TV: July 8 – “Live with Kelly” (ABC): Guillermo Diaz (“Scandal”) co-hosts with Queen Latifah and Laverne Cox as guests. “The Amber Rose Show” (VH1): After going out with French Montana and advising Iggy Azalea to “be a hoe” this week, the bombshell is premiering her own talker.

July 9 – “Hello World!” (DSC): Usher kicks off this six-part series looking at the wonders of nature through the eyes of some of today’s most celebrated musicians.

July 10 – “The Secret She Kept” (TV1): ReShonda Tate Billingsley’s best-selling novel is adapted for this original movie on mental health in the black community starring Kyla Pratt, Kellita Smith and Vanessa A. Williams.  “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC): Snoop Dogg vs. Sugar Ray Leonard; Laila Ali vs. George Hamilton. “$100,000 Pyramid” (ABC): Michael Strahan hosts the matches pitting Martha Stewart vs. Snoop Dogg; and Ken Jeong vs. Tisha Campbell-Martin. “Naked and Afraid XL” (DSC): Homeless Baltimore native Clarence Gilmer II showed that street smarts could translate to the remote hostile locales this year. Now he returns for a new challenge with other survivalists. Hope his social graces have improved.

July 11 – “Hip Hop Honors” (VH1): Eve hosts this edition feting Salt-N-Pepa featuring DJ Spinderella, Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott and Lil’ Kim.

July 12 – “Sisterhood of Hip Hop” (OXY): The docu-series executive produced by T.I. returns with veterans Siya, Brianna Perry and Diamond welcoming new femcees Audra the Rapper and Lee Mazin. MC Lyte, Irv Gotti, Tank, Trina, YoYo, Jazze Pha and more will provide support this third season.

July 13 – “Unsung Hollywood” (TV1): Tim Reid is profiled. “Mr. Robot” (USA): The dark hackers return for a second season with a two-hour episode with limited interruptions. “Black And White” (A&E): Christian Finnegan and Sherrod Small host this new provocative weekly in-studio show that tackles relevant stories in the news through the prism of race and uses comedy to diffuse the tension.

July 14 – “30 For 30” (ESPN): “Doc & Darryl” explores the lives and careers of former New York Mets superstars, the young flame thrower, Dwight “Doc” Gooden and feared power hitter Darryl Strawberry.

TASTY QUIP: “It’s not always betwixxx the thighs .. Sometimes it’s between the ears.” – ERYKAH BADU on Twitter

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Academy begins to diversify appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

“I selected those that have inspired me to become the ‘artivist’ that I am,” said the soulful crooner of the evening’s set list, which will include renditions of Aretha Franklin’s “Think,” Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” and Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi.”

Blacc peppers awareness in his catalog giving a nod to the King of Pop himself.

“I like to add a little bit a medicine with the sugar in the way Michael Jackson would do,” he stated.  “[MJ] was the bomb when it came to social messages in his music.”

Like many, Blacc considered Jesse Williams’ BET Awards acceptance speech the most important words said by any celebrity in decades. Blacc revealed that the “Grey’s Anatomy” actor was following the guidelines they and others were given at a meeting of “Black Hollywood” called by Harry Belafonte at Quincy Jones’ home.

“He took it to the next level,” Blacc said. “There were other people who were in the audience who have not done what Jesse has been doing. People need to step up and really start being vocal. My biggest comment at these meetings — because there was another with Van Jones at Russell Simmons home — is that we need eternal vigilance, but it’s also about action items.”

For Blacc, that’s about boycotting companies engaging in prison labor because he believes private prisons that are incentivized to keep people incarcerated for profit are a conflict of interest in our legal system.

He reasoned: “If I can convince Ciara, Rihanna or Beyoncé to create their own lingerie line, it would be helpful in creating a boycott for Victoria’s Secret because they wouldn’t get billions of black dollars that they currently receive.”

On the subject of cultural appropriation, Blacc feels that Justin Timberlake may be guilty but not with malice like the Sun Records owner who said of Elvis Presley they were specifically looking for a white kid who could do what the black kids do for more money.

“I think [Timberlake] genuinely is a talented musician-songwriter,” Blacc said. “An artist who has a feel for what is good music and presenting it. He happens to be white. It’s different when you’re from Australia with an Australian accent singing and rapping like you’re from Atlanta. No names to be uttered. You already know who I’m talking about. That’s cultural appropriation.”

Even if it’s produced and presented by a prominent Atlanta rapper?

“I’d say that’s cultural apimpriation,” he responded.

CLIPPETTES:  The cast Malcolm Lee is about to begin filming “Girl Trip” with is rounding out nicely with Larenz Tate, Mike Colter (“Luke Cage”) and Tiffany Haddish (“Carmichael Show”) joining Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Regina Hall …

Blackstreet, Johnny Gill, Al B Sure, After 7 and Total are in concert at The Forum on July 2 …

After rattling off a list of various properties in six states, comic actor Katt Williams told Rock Rants that “it’s all possible if you don’t spend all your money on strippers and cocaine. If you think [I’m a] crackhead, you should spend some time with your local crackhead.” …

Sundance TV’s “Hap and Leonard” starring James Purefoy and Michael Kenneth Williams has been renewed for a second season.

TASTY QUIP: “[Diversity is] not, ‘Hey, let’s give this white protagonist a brown friend!’ No. It’s ‘Let’s have a show where there’s a token white guy.’ And that’s what it is.” – AZIZ ANSARI at the Peabody Awards

TC ON TV: July 1 – “Tavis Smiley” (PBS): Maxwell

July 2 – “Bad Dad Rehab” (TV1): Starring Malik Yoba, Robert Ri’chard, Wesley Jonathan and Kandi Buruss. The original movie follows a center that employs unusual methods to help men become true fathers.

July 4 – “Idris Elba No Limits” (DFC): The actor-producer will push his body, mind and engineering know-how to the limit by racing on land, water and in the air for a new four-part series airing back-to-back. “A Capitol Fourth” (PBS): Smokey Robinson, Kenny Loggins, Yolanda Adams, Amber Riley, Gen. Colin L. Powell and the cast of Gloria Estefan’s “On Your Feet.” “Serena” (Epix): This new doc features an intimate look at Ms. Williams’ quest to achieve four tennis Grand Slams in a row. Funny how it carefully shows rumored love interest Drake, who was suspected to have been a distraction.

July 6 – “Hollywood Divas” (TV1): For season three, Malika Haqq (“Keeping Up with the Kardashians”) is joining Countess Vaughn, Golden Brooks, Lisa Wu and Paula Jai Parker.

ROYAL EVENING: John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance, Edward James Olmos, Debbie Allen, Lorraine Toussaint and Regina King are confirmed for The Music Center’s Summer Soirée honoring multi-talented legend Rita Moreno on July 7. Guests will be treated to a special performance by the American Ballet Theatre of Alexei Ratmansky’s 2012 “Firebird,” starring principal dancers and Southern California natives Misty Copeland and Stella Abrera, followed by an after-party in Grand Park.

TASTY QUIP: “Freedom is always coming in the hereafter, you know what though, the hereafter is a hustle. We want it now.” – JESSE WILLIAMS at the BET Awards.

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Aloe Blacc serves activism through his art appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

We enjoyed scrumptious cocktails at NYC’s Black Barn made with Tres Papalote Mezcal, a spirit that, like tequila, is made out of agave but with a certain smokiness.

“Used to be mezcal water had a worm or a scorpion in it,” explained Marin, who serves as a brand ambassador. “It was a novelty that you could buy in Tijuana or something. The real mezcal is becoming hotter and hotter across the country. It’s the real hipster drink now. I like it preferably as a mixer.”

I drank to that with The Cheech, made with grilled pineapple, serrano chili, lime and agave. The stand-out collector’s edition bottle is a glass sculpture designed by the De La Torre brothers, owners of the biggest Chicano art collection in the world, that is adorned with art by Marin.

The 69-year-old renaissance man is currently in the middle of filming a Cheech & Chong documentary and working on a sitcom with Paul Rodriquez and his popular skateboarding son Paul Rodriquez Jr. Next year, his first memoir is to be published by Hachette.

When asked if he has capitalized on marijuana legalization, Marin slyly said, “Why yes. Funny you should mention it,” before describing the multi-strain “personal line called Cheech’s Private Stash, edibles, crumbles and all those things.”

Just don’t expect him to return to “Dancing with the Stars.”

“I just came in to help Tommy and drive him on,” said Marin. “He had to do all the dancing. It’s funny cause I wasn’t on the show and one week I got 4,000 votes. So how brilliant are these guys? I think it’s the same people who vote for Trump.”

HEAD START: Snoop Dogg fans can start drinking “Coolaid,” his first hip hop album in five years, early via pre-order with consumers getting his latest single, “Kush Ups,” featuring Wiz Khalifa, as an instant free track. The release, available digitally on July 1 and in physical stores on July 15, features additional collaborations with Timbaland, Swizz Beatz, Just Blaze, E-40 and more.

TASTY QUIP: “There’s no one way to be black. I’m black the way I know how to be. You have no idea who I am. I am black. I’m raising black men. Don’t you ever think you can look at me and address me with such disdain.” – ZOE SALDANA to Allure

CLIPPETTES: The BET Experience continues at Staples Center with Usher and Bryson Tiller on June 24; Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, Fetty Wap, A$AP Ferg and others the following evening …

In addition to the music, Gabrielle Union, Melissa Harris-Perry, Birdman, Jermaine Dupri, Kirk Franklin, DJ Khaled, are just some of the panelists for their 2016 “Genius Talks” series, June 25 (2:45–7 p.m.) and June 26 (1:30–3 p.m.) at the L.A. Convention Center.  Entry will be on a first come, first served basis …

A Tribe Called Quest was presented the ASCAP Golden Note Award by André 3000 at the 29th annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards at The Beverly Wilshire. The tribute included posthumous recognition for Malik “Phife Dawg” Taylor, one of the group’s founding members …

Toro Y Moi and a surprise special guest are billed as DJs for Degrees of Perfect, a first-of-its-kind exhibition of art + engineering, June 24 at The Container Yard …

RZA is executive producing a TV version of the “Black Samurai” novels with Common attached to star …

Dr. Gloria Morrow’s “The Things that Make Me Cry,” featuring Dorien Wilson (“The Parkers”) and Lou Beatty Jr., returns to the Barnsdall Gallery Theater for an engagement June 24-26 …

Jazzmen Ndugu Chancler and Justo Almario are among the performers in Classical Remix on June 25 as part of the free Grand Performances outdoor concert series at California Plaza …

Reggae Night XV celebrates its milestone on June 26 with Burning Spear, Ky-Mani Marley and Etana at the Hollywood Bowl.

TASTY QUIP: “Keep a little ratchet in your life! You need ratchet balance!” – OPRAH WINFREY to EUR’s Fahnia Thomas

TC ON TV: June 24 – “Kimbo Slice” (Spike): The recently deceased 42 year-old MMA fighter is remembered.  “Real Time with Bill Maher” (HBO): Larry Willmore, Michael Steele.

June 25 – “#WeMissYouMJ” (Fuse): On the sixth anniversary of his passing, the legendary Michael Jackson is commemorated with this 6 ½ hour music video block. “Deon Cole: Cole-Blooded Seminar” (Comedy): The comic actor (“Black-ish,” “Barbershop: The Next Cut”) gets his first one-hour stand-up special.

June 26 – “BET Awards” (BET): Samuel L. Jackson, Jesse Williams and Prince are honored in the ceremonies hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross. “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC): It’s Ernie Hudson vs NeNe Leakes!  “The Match Game” (ABC): This revival seats Sherri Shepherd, Tituss Burgess (“Kimmy Schmidt”), Horatio Sanz (“SNL”) and designer Isaac Mizhrahi.

June 29 – “Celebrity Food Fight” (Food): This episode is “Too Coolio for Schoolio.”

June 30 – “Greatest Hits” (ABC): 1980-1985 is repped by Pitbull, Ray Parker, Jr., Jason Derulo, Kenny Loggins, Kool & The Gang and other stars in this series premiere hosted by Arsenio Hall and Kelsea Ballerini.

SPREAD LOVE: Dionne Warwick’s Burt Bacharach/Hal David penned hit “What the World Needs Now is Love,” is covered for Orlando LGBT funds by stage stars Lin-Manuel Miranda, Gloria Estefan, Fran Drescher, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Whoopi Goldberg, Wayne Brady, Nathan Lane, Audra McDonald, Carole King, Rosie Perez and more. Visit BroadwayRecords.com to donate.

TASTY QUIP: “It’s interesting that in America the problem you’re allowed to talk about is Black Lives Matter. It’s not a new thing to me — it’s what Lauryn Hill was saying in the 1990s, or Public Enemy in the 1980s. Is Beyoncé or Kendrick Lamar going to say Muslim Lives Matter? Or Syrian Lives Matter? Or this kid in Pakistan matters? That’s a more interesting question.” – M.I.A. on Twitter

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Cheech Marin raising spirits appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

Tasty Clips caught up with the preeminent male jazz vocalist of this generation during a stop at Charlotte’s Knight Theatre in support of his latest number one album “Take Me to the Alley.”

The flat-capped giant from Bakersfield by way of Bed-Stuy commanded the stage for nearly two hours with his surprisingly funky quartet. The set included songs from his Grammy-winning second album, “Liquid Spirit,” peppered with clever snippets from soul classics like “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and “Wake Up Everybody.” When enthusiastically called for an encore, Porter could only sheepishly grin before asking the crowd if they knew there was a NBA Finals game on.

Backstage, we talked about what Prince songs he may cover.  “Everybody’s doing it,” he prefaced, “but I’d say ‘Purple Rain.’ I know that sounds corny, but it’s like a perfect hymn.” Ever the musicologist, he also threw in he’d add an obscure Prince song — just because.

Porter is currently touring with stops slated for the Newport Jazz Festival, the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival, and Monterey Jazz Festival before returning to L.A.’s Orpheum Theatre on Oct. 6.

NEW TO DVD & DIGITAL: The beloved and still-relevant drama “Cornbread, Earl and Me” will make its Blu-ray debut on June 21 via Olive Films, more than 40 years since its theatrical release. Based on the 1966 novel “Hog Butcher” by Ronald L. Fair, the movie also marked the acting debut of a 13-year-old Laurence Fishburne, alongside icons Moses Gunn, Jamaal Wilkes, Rosalind Cash, Madge Sinclair and Antonio Fargas. The movie also features an original score by The Blackbyrds.

“Power: The Complete Second Season” is now available on DVD as a 3-disc set. The series picks up where it left off with James “Ghost” St. Patrick (Omari Hardwick), his wife Tasha (Naturi Naughton), first love Angela (Lela Loren), business partner Tommy (Joseph Sikora), and his former mentor, Kanan (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, who also is the executive producer). The third season premieres on Starz on a new night Sunday, July 17.

Premiering on Vimeo this Father’s Day, June 19 is “Daddy Don’t Go,” from executive producers Omar Epps and Malik Yoba. The film, directed by Emily Abt, illuminates the various socioeconomic pressures low-income fathers face and provides compelling portraits of men who persevere.

Ryan Simon’s documentary “The Black Jacket,” telling the story of ex-Black Panther Aquil Basheer’s revolutionary inner-city peace initiative, comes to DVD and Digital HD on June 21 from Virgil Films. Basheer’s teaching curriculum was recently adopted by the L.A. City Council and cities throughout the world.

CLIPPETTES: Common and Public Enemy’s Chuck D announced that they’re working together on a new track for the former’s upcoming 11th studio album, “Black America Again.”

Kashif & Friends with Meli’sa Morgan, Ray Parker Jr., the System, Howard Johnson, Deniece Williams and many others are at the Catalina Jazz Club June 17-18.

The life of Shirley Chisholm, the first woman to run for U.S. president, has been optioned by Anika Noni Rose (“Roots”) as a vehicle for her to produce and star in …

“Is That All There Is: A Tribute to Jerry Leiber” (who with Jerry Stoller) wrote rock and roll hits “Hound Dog”, “Kansas City,” “Love Potion No. 9” and “Stand by Me”) is happening on June 17 at Glendale’s Alec Theatre. Patrice Rushen, T.C. Carson, Alphonso Johnson, Corky Hale and Tricia Tahara lead the performers …

Also premiering this weekend is “Tom,” a world premiere stage adaptation of ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin,’ offering “a new look at the true grit of its title character” at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga …

NeNe Leakes: The App for iPhone and iPad is now available offering NE’mojis like “Bloop” and “Girl Bye!”; and a special Dressing Room feature that allows users to dress her with their choice of hairstyles, clothing outfits, shoes and accessories from her closet …

Monica, Luke James, Bilal, and “Empire” guest star V Bozeman headline this year’s free kick-off concert for the 2016 BET Experience on June 18 at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw’s Outdoor Promenade. June 23 marks the first of three BETX at L.A. Live arena shows at Staples pairing the controversial Katt Williams with Mike Epps …

Pete Rock & CL Smooth are playing the Troubadour on June 20 …

Broadway’s original “Dreamgirls”: Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine and Jennifer Holliday are reuniting for a one-night only benefit concert on July 10 at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood. For info, visit: FordTheatres.org or ChrisIsaacsonPresents.com …

Devine is also featured in the just-released human trafficking drama, “Caged No More,” starring Kevin Sorbo (“Hercules”) and Debra Wilson (“MADtv”).

TC ON TV: June 17 – “Orange is the New Black” (Netflix): The complete fourth season!

June 18 – “The Haves and the Have Nots Binge-A-Thon” (OWN): Through June 21, at 9 p.m., leading into the third season of the network’s highest-rated series.

June 19 – “EJNYC” (E!): This “#RichKids of Beverly Hills” spin-off stars shrinking celebrity heir EJ Johnson, alongside his #Glamtourage – which includes sister Elisa Johnson, Samaria Smith, daughter of LL Cool J, and Persian real estate development heir Sanaz Panahi. Moves to Wednesdays on June 22.

June 21 – “Greenleaf” (OWN): Family megachurch drama directed by Clement Virgo (“The Book of Negroes”) has a fine cast including Keith David, Lynn Whitfield, GregAlan Williams, Lamman Rucker, Oprah Winfrey and a host of really beautiful people.  Moves to Wednesdays the following evening.

June 22 – “Serena – The Other Side of Greatness” (Epix):Serena Williams narrates this eponymous documentary that takes a closer look at all sides of her life as an athlete-designer-businesswoman. “Unsung” (TV One): e-40

June 23 – “Queen of the South” (USA) Alice Braga (“I Am Legend”) stars in this series based on Arturo Pérez-Reverte’s global best-selling novel “La Reina Del Sur,” tells the powerful story of a woman unexpectedly lured into the drug trafficking trade.

TASTY QUIP: “And I do feel this, from my gut, that Trump will say pretty much anything to appeal to the lowest common denominator. In a way, it breaks my heart, because words have power.” – GREGORY PORTER to Jazziz

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Gregory Porter commands stage appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

“The life she lived is like that of 11 different people,” said Parris of the R&B singer of such hits as “Ain’t Nobody Like You,” “Georgy Porgy,” “Come Share My Love” and the Top 10 hit single for which the network’s first original biopic is named. “There’s so much drama. Mental abuse, physical abuse, drug abuse, the music industry, kids, marriages, divorces. There’s so much I’m not sure I could think of anything that would top this experience.”

The dynamic story, as co-written by Rhonda Baraka and director Christine Swanson, goes all in with a memorable cast including Gary Dourdan, Vanessa Bell Calloway, LisaRaye McCoy, Darius McCrary as Gerald Levert, and in the most jaw-dropping part, Milini Khan as her mother, Chaka Khan.

Despite all the hardships, Parris, who will return for a third season of Starz’ “Survivor’s Remorse,” was happy to let us know Miki is doing well now.

“She’s such a force.  I feel like every time I leave her I’m tired,” Parris said. “She’s excited to have her story being told and to be here to witness it and be a part of the process.”

MILESTONE: The 25th anniversary of “Boyz N the Hood” will be observed by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences with a screening and reunion of cast and crew on June 10 at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills.  Participants include Oscar-nominated writer-director John Singleton, composer Stanley Clarke and former Columbia Pictures executive Stephanie Allain. The celebration will continue at the Academy’s Linwood Dunn Theater with screenings of two of Singleton’s later films, “Baby Boy” (June 14) and “Rosewood” (June 17).

CLICKING: “I looked at the obituaries this morning and didn’t see my name,” joked sax legend Jimmy Heath to Tasty Clips. “Guess I must still be alive!” The 89-year-old National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master was in fine form at the New York City book launch for “AM Jazz: Three Generations Under the Lens” (Peruzzo Editoriale), by renowned photographer Adriana Mateo.

The handsome bound collection features the Buenos Aires-born Mateo’s loving look at artists from young lions like Esperanza Spalding, Jon Batiste, and then 12-year-old piano sensation Joey Alexander to longtime giants including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Dave Brubeck and Heath, who also wrote the foreword.

For more info, visit www.adrianamateo.com; and witness Heath’s virtuosity with Javon Jackson and Sax Appeal at the 38th annual Playboy Jazz Festival on June 12 at the Hollywood Bowl.

CLIPPETTES: D’Angelo, Sheila E, Janelle Monae and The Roots will honor Prince with their talents during the BET Awards to air live from L.A.’s Microsoft Theater on June 26. Alicia Keys and Maxwell will also perform …

Eddie Murphy is collaborating again with his “Tower Heist” director Brett Ratner to film a faux music documentary called “Soul Soul Soul: The Murray Murray Story” reportedly for Netflix …

Kudos to British-Zimbabwean actor Regé-Jean Page for his electrifying portrayal of Chicken George in the “Roots” remake. Can’t wait to see what’s next …

Buzz is out on “The Fits,” a coming-of-age story about a young African-American girl who becomes transfixed by the power of an all-girl dance team. It opens June 10 in Santa Monica, North Hollywood and Pasadena …

Filmmaker-cinematographer Arthur Jafa (“Crooklyn,” “Daughters of the Dust”) will discuss representation and black cultural production with writer and musician Greg Tate on June 14 at The Hammer Museum. The free program is in conjunction with Made in L.A. 2016 and will be livestreamed …

TASTY QUIP: “If you have faith and an idea, it can never go away. You have to stay on your hustle. It may evolve. It may not be what you first envisioned.” – RUSSELL SIMMONS at the Produced By Conference

TC ON TV: June 11 – “30 for 30: O.J.: Made in America – Part 1” (ABC): This seven-hour plus docu-series, currently in L.A. and N.Y. theaters, is getting raves. The remaining four parts air this week on ESPN. “National Enquirer Investigates” (Starz): Whitney Houston & Bobbi Kristina

June 12 – “The 70th annual Tony Awards” (CBS): Oprah Winfrey, James Earl Jones, Uzo Aduba, Jake Gyllenhaal, Neil Patrick Harris, Audra McDonald, Lucy Liu and Blair Underwood are presenting. “The Night Stalker” (Lifetime): Stars Bellamy Young (“Scandal”), Hawthorne James (“The Five Heartbeats”) and Lou Diamond Phillips as prolific L.A. serial killer Richard Ramirez. “House of Lies” (Showtime): This series closer was shot in Havana, Cuba.

June 13 – “Live with Kelly” (ABC): Guest Co-Host Morris Chestnut, Trevor Noah

June 15 – “To Tell The Truth” (ABC): Anthony Anderson hosts this revival of the classic game show with panelists Betty White, NeNe Leakes, Jalen Rose and Tracee Ellis Ross. “Uncle Buck” (ABC): Mike Epps and Nia Long star in this TV series. “In a Perfect World” (Showtime): Damon Dash is featured in this documentary that explores what it is to be a man raised by a single mother.

R.I.P. MUHAMMAD ALI: I first met “The Champ” as a young reporter at his Deer Lake, Pennsylvania, training camp in 1977. His famed entourage, including hype man Bundini Brown and sparring partner Jimmy Ellis, were in attendance as he prepared to fight Ernie Shavers.

After his ringwork, I witnessed his greatness as he turned a crying little boy, left without an autograph, into an ebullient lad by giving him gloves he said he “trained with to beat George Foreman.”

I would be in Ali’s presence four more times during my career. We last spoke about 20 years ago in New York where he was being honored but obviously in the clutches of Parkinson’s Disease. Seeing that his whispers in the ballroom would make our brief interview challenging, I switched gears and took the chance to declare my appreciation for all he had done in his life.

Ali motioned for me to lower my head near his lips and said, “See that girl over there? She’s a fox!”

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Teyonah Parris shows her range appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

The Blair Underwood-narrated “Olympic Pride, American Prejudice,” comes from one of Variety’s “10 Documakers to Watch” — Deborah Riley Draper. The feature looks at the trials of 18 African-American athletes who represented this country in Nazi Germany’s 1936 Olympic Games.

“I was drawn to the unheard and dismissed voice of the other 17 African Americans [outside of Jesse Owens] who won hearts and medals,” the helmer of 2012’s acclaimed “Versailles ’73: American Runway Revolution,” told Tasty Clips. “Especially the two black women [Tidye Pickett and Louise Stokes]. They opened the doors for all of the stars we now know and love — Wilma Rudolph, Flo Jo, Jackie Joyner Kersee, Allyson Felix and the list goes on.”

“Mooz-Lum” writer/director Qasim Basir’s “Destined” was the film actor Cory Hardrict effused about upon our meeting last month in Atlanta. No wonder. He is said to have given a breakout performance as two dissimilar characters in the drama he executive produced along with cast mate Hill Harper. Margot Bingham, Jesse Metcalfe, La La Anthony and Mo McRae round out the players.

Tickets for additional screenings of the two films respectively on June 6 and 7; a June 4 Diversity Speaks talk with Issa Rae (“Awkward Black Girl”) and Curator Elvis Mitchell; and more are still available at: www.lafilmfest.com.

RESPECT: Headliner Stevie Wonder opened day one of BottleRock Napa Valley but his closing numbers still have those who attended the festival talking. To close his show, Wonder ripped into spectacular covers of Prince’s “When Doves Cry” and “Kiss,” The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” David Bowie’s “Fame,” and the Eagles’ “Hotel California.” Throughout the performance, the legendary performer would stop to ask the crowd, “What’s my name?” – to which they chanted “DJ Chick Chick Boom.” The evening concluded with “Superstition.”

GRINDING: Author/entrepreneur Zane always has multiple irons in the fire. Tasty Clips caught up with the prolific writer of adult fiction in Columbia, South Carolina, as part of a book tour promoting the latest in her popular “Addicted” series titled, “Vengeance;” and the instructive manual “Infinite Words.”

The Maryland native, who like Shonda Rhimes and Mara Brock Akil, is one of the few black female showrunners in television, dropped exclusively that she was just commissioned to write the biopic of the late Blues guitarist B.B. King by his daughter. This will take up the time freed up from the previously reported Aaliyah project she now pronounces as “dead in the water.”

CLIPPETTES: Chuck D of Public Enemy got Shaquille O’Neal to return to his rap roots for a new song to be released on the soundtrack of a documentary on the first NBA free agent Spencer Haywood …

William Shatner, Danny Trejo, Keith David and Sean Astin lend their talents to “Range 15,” called “The SuperTroopers of Military Movies,” premiering June 3 at the Vista Theatre prior to its nationwide release on June 15 …

“The Crown Prince of Reggae” gets saluted in a new double-disc album out called “We Remember Dennis Brown.”  The compilation features covers from Marsha Ambrosius, Freddie McGregor, Maxi Priest, Jah Cure and more.

The Newport Beach Jazz Festival (June 3-5 at the Hyatt Regency) returns with Stephanie Mills, Michael McDonald, Jonathan Butler, AWB, Karen Briggs, Paul Taylor, and Euge Groove for starters …

A captivating real-life Cinderella story is at the heart of “Presenting Princess Shaw,” opening in theaters nationwide June 3. This tale of despairing New Orleans-based singer Samantha Montgomery, catapulted by the discovery of her talents on YouTube by Israeli composer Kutiman, affirms that dreams can come true …

Nathan Leftenant took to Facebook to announce that he and his 10 former members of Cameo have lawyered up to get their royalties. He says group founder/front-man Larry Blackmon “tried to put a hold on funds claiming 100 percent of royalty was his!” Stay tuned …

TC ON TV: June 3 – “All In with Cam Newton” (Nick): The Carolina Panthers QB hosts this series pairing aspiring kids with mentors like three-time Olympian gymnast Dominque Dawes and Tim Gunn (“Project Runway”).  “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives” (Food): Guy Fieri goes “Cruisin’ in Cuba” in this special episode.

June 5 – “The Governor’s Ball Music Festival” (Viceland): Kanye West “Sports Detectives” (Smithsonian): The first season ends with an investigation on what really happened to Muhammad Ali’s 1960 Olympic gold medal, which he claims was tossed into the Ohio River because of his disgust with racism.

June 6 – “2016 Peabody Awards” (Pivot): Keegan-Michael Key hosts this edited version of the prestigious ceremony honoring “Black-ish,” “Mr. Robot,” “Beasts of No Nation,” “The Leftovers,” and documentary filmmaker Stanley Nelson, among others.

June 7 – “20/20” (ABC): The Bobby Brown Story – Every Little Step.

June 9 – “Live with Kelly” (ABC): Paula Patton, Michael Franti & Spearhead; “Guy’s Choice 2016” (Spike): Kobe Bryant is its Athlete of the Decade. “Streets of Compton” (A&E): The Game leads this three-part docuseries with an album project to follow. The contributor roll call includes current and former residents Kendrick Lamar, Niecy Nash, Paul Rodriguez, tennis patriarch Richard Williams and Mayor Aja Brown.

OPENING NIGHT: Tony Award-winning “Passing Strange” creators Stew and Heidi Rodewald’s new musical “The Total Bent” totally rocks! The intimacy of NYC’s Public Theater, where “Hamilton” was launched, abets the rush of realizing you’re witnessing a masterpiece. Though familiar with Vondie Curtis-Hall’s accomplished career as an actor and director, his singing voice as preacher Papa Joe Roy is a revelation; as is Ato Blankson-Wood as metamorphosing son Marty. It runs through June 19, while we wonder if Spike Lee will return to film another of this talented duo’s productions.

TASTY QUIP: “Diversity is on everyone’s agenda today, but it’s something I’ve had to think about my entire career, because, in a way, it’s like the tax you pay for being a person of color in this industry.” – AMERICA FERRERA to Deadline

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

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For the performance Tasty Clips witnessed, Morton sizzled while captivating an audience that included actress-singer Suzzanne Douglas (who just wrapped the musical “Happy Yummy Chicken” with “Orange is the New Black” stars Taryn Manning and Diane Guerrero), “Banshee” co-star Frankie Faison, Jay O. Sanders (“Blackspot”), broadcaster Jacque Reed with former New York Giant Carl Banks, and the Rev. Al Sharpton with radio giant Tom Joyner.

“Dick spent about three hours with us working on timing and authenticity,” Morton said when asked if the play had Gregory’s blessings. Remarkably, Morton, also known for roles in “Brother from Another Planet” and “Terminator 2: Judgement Day,” nails various phases of the 83 year-old’s career sans make-up or props.

Opening night brought out Gregory and Legend, as well as Wesley Snipes, Mehcad Brooks (“Supergirl”), Dule Hill (co-starring with Katherine Heigl in CBS’ “Doubt”), Jurnee Smollett-Bell and Amirah Vann from “Underground,” director Kenny Leon, Cassandra Freeman (“The Real MVP: The Wanda Durant Story” and Netflix’s “Luke Cage”), Sirius/XM host Mark Thompson, and Stephan Lang (who has three more “Avatar” films, another season of “Salem” and the thriller, “Don’t Breathe” on the way).

Singer Johnny Gill turned 50 last weekend with a birthday bash at a Bel Air mansion. (Courtesy photo)

MILESTONE: The 50th birthday of legendary singer Johnny Gill was celebrated last weekend with a private bash at a Bel-Air mansion. Friends like Cedric the Entertainer, Debbie Allen, Eric Benet (riding a new single, “Sunshine”), Nicole Murphy, Rocsi Diaz, Joe, Luke James, Shaun Robinson, Jill Marie Jones, Nichelle Turner, Yvette Nicole Brown and Phillip Bailey were in attendance.

One of the “50 Shades of Johnny” evening’s highlights found a powerhouse trio of Smokey Robinson, Jeffery Osborne and Kenny Lattimore serenading enraptured “Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars Cynthia Bailey and NeNe Leakes, sporting a flattering new do.

Meanwhile, “Empire” star Bryshere Y. Gray was like glue to New Edition as he studies Michael Bivins, who he’ll portray in a BET three-part miniseries. Wood Harris, Duane Martin, Michael Rapaport, Faizon Love and Tank have just been added to that one.

WHO GOT DIBS?: A hush-hush first screening of the Tupac biopic “All Eyez on Me” was held on the Warner Bros. lot May 16 with a select few suits including L.A. Reid in the room.  If WB decides to pass on the film, look for a distribution battle between Universal and Lionsgate. Advance word is that the Benny Boom-directed film is excellent and they hope to have it ready for release by Pac’s birthday in September.

CLIPPETTES: Big Freedia’s music video for “I Heard,” from her upcoming summer album, will premiere exclusively on the Fuse TV app for one week starting May 25, later segueing to the network on June 1.

Master P’s new song, now available for download, is titled “Dominque Wilkins,” described as a musical tribute to the iconic Atlanta Hawks basketball player …

May 28 finds R&B fave Jaheim celebrating his birthday with a live performance at The Savoy; and Mali Music at The Lyric …

The new Defining Courage exhibition opens May 28 with a free festival in the Little Tokyo district. Kanye mentor & Grammy winner Malik Yusef, jazz saxophonist Michael Paulo, The Rev. Shawn Amos and others are listed at www.GoForBroke.org …

Barrington Levy headlines the landmark 30th annual Jazz Reggae Festival at UCLA on May 30 from noon to 6 …

The Regent Theatre is hosting a screening of “Under the Cherry Moon” on June 2 followed by an all-Prince after party with a tribute by DJ Spinna. It’s free with a RSVP to dola.com/cherrymoon.

LIVE FROM 30 ROCK: Tasty Clips was among the early risers witnessing in person the season opener of the “Today Show” Summer Concert Series featuring a gyrating Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. He gave a stellar preview of his Puff Daddy & the Family Bad Boy Reunion Tour with full band, dancers and hit makers Mace, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, 112, French Montana and Lil’ Kim.

Later that evening, which happened to be Busta and the late Notorious B.I.G.’s birthday, Diddy turned it up a notch at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center by bringing out Jay Z, Nas, Rick Ross, Mary J. Blige and Usher. The crowd-pleasing event hits The Forum on Oct. 4.

TC ON TV: May 29 – “Carmichael Show” (NBC): This episode titled “President Trump” serves as the season finale.

May 30 – “Live with Kelly” (ABC): Jussie Smollett co-hosts with Mariah Carey guesting.  “Roots” (Lifetime/A&E/History/LMN): The new adaptation of Alex Haley’s novel runs for four consecutive nights.

May 31 – “Maya and Marty in Manhattan” (NBC): Ms. Rudolph and Mr. Short will also be joined by “Saturday Night Live’s Kenan Thompson for this live variety show.

June 1 – “Cleverman” (Sundance): This Aussie import set in the near future is a startlingly original sci-fi drama rooted in Aboriginal mythology.

June 2 – “Lip Sync Battle” (Spike): Shaquille O’Neal vs. Aisha Tyler

PARTNERS: Industry execs, advertisers and media types crammed New York City’s Lyric Theatre last week to hear a major announcement at the Univision Upfront. The network, already the acquirer of web entities The Root, The Onion, Uforia, and parts of the El Rey and Fusion cablers, has a powerful new ally: Netflix. They will team to co-produce a boundary-breaking 2017 drama series, “El Chapo,” based on the notorious criminal’s life story. As part of the agreement, Univision will be the first U.S. network to air full seasons of Netflix’s original series “Narcos” and “Club de Cuervos” respectively.

TASTY QUIP: “Well, it definitely won’t be blacker than ‘Coming to America’ because that’s the blackest movie of all time. I think we should look at it for being just a really good movie instead of being a ‘really black movie.’ Don’t limit ourselves.” – ANTHONY MACKIE to ABC Radio’s Karu Daniels on speculation Marvel’s “Black Panther” with Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, and possibly Lupita Nyong’o, directed by Ryan Coogler, could be the biggest and blackest film ever.

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Joe Morton plays Dick Gregory appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

And so, you can expect the updated “Prison Break,” with Wentworth Miller, Dominic Purcell, Sarah Wayne Callies and Rockmond Dunbar; a third revival of “The X-Files,” and the promising reboot “24: Legacy,” produced by former star Kiefer Sutherland that we predict will make Corey Hawkins a household name.

The cool actor, who portrayed Dr. Dre in the hit film “Straight Outta Compton,” could only laugh when asked how many hit shows does he need as he hinted his character on “The Walking Dead,” could be returning.

Fox has turned to “Empire” creator Lee Daniels for “Star,” a new drama about the birth of a girl singing group headlined by Queen Latifah and Benjamin Bratt. The trio (newcomers Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady) showed the gathering they really have voices with a cover of Prince’s “I Would Die 4 U.” Lenny Kravitz will also play a vital role on the series with some episodes directed by Effie Brown, last seen lecturing Matt Damon about diversity on HBO’s “Project Greenlight.”

The lovely Sanaa Lathan will make her TV series debut in the racially charged “Shots Fired,” from Gina Prince-Bythewood (“Love and Basketball,” “Beyond the Lights”). The drama focuses on the uproar set off when an African-American cop (played by Tristen Mack Wilds of “The Wire” fame) kills a white teenager in Tennessee. Stephan James (“Race”), Stephen Moyer (“True Blood”), Helen Hunt and Richard Dreyfus round out the cast.

Two-time Emmy winning Producer/Director Paris Barclay (“Sons of Anarchy”) may have a winner on his hands with “Pitch,” a series about the first female major league baseball player. The engaging Kylie Bunbury (“Under The Dome”) stars with Michael Beach as her dad, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Ali Larter, Mark Consuelos and Dan Lauria (“The Wonder Years”).

Familiar faces joining the network include Damon Wayans Sr. in a TV reboot of the “Lethal Weapon” franchise, Geena Davis in a retelling of “The Exorcist,” Tim Meadows (“The Ladies Man”) in the semi-animated “Son of Zorn,” and Justin Kirk (“Tyrant,” “Weeds”) in “APB.”

The biggest surprise was seeing the great Ben Vereen, who told us he was blessed to be a part of the brand-new reimagining of the cult-classic “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” He’ll join Laverne Cox (“Orange is the New Black”), Adam Lambert (“American Idol”) and original cast member Tim Curry.

MID-SEASON PREMIERE: Television host Howard Henley is hosting a mid-season premiere party for his new show on the CW, “Truth or Dare,” from 8 p.m. to midnight May 19 at 6362 Hollywood Blvd., Suite No. 206, in Hollywood. Among those expected to attend are Reginald C. Hayes, Judge Reinhold, Kevin Sarbo, Keith Coogan, Cheryl Demaree and Deana Molle.

CLIPPETTES: Casting is underway for a Dionne Warwick biopic with former Destiny’s Child member LeToya Luckett grabbing the title role with support from Danny Glover and Olympia Dukakis …

Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton bring their tour to the Microsoft Theater on May 20 …

Justin Simien’s movie “Dear White People” is becoming a 2017 series for Netflix …

Cuban trumpet legend Arturo Sandoval blows on May 21 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center; while B. Slade, the gospel artist formerly known as Tonex, performs at the Legendary Maverick’s Flats …

Dan Aykroyd and Judy Belushi are bringing the adventures of The Blues Brothers to television as an animated primetime series …

The Black Association of Documentary Filmmakers West (BADWest) presents its 10th annual “Day of Black Docs” on May 21, noon to 5 p.m. at the American Film Institute’s Mark Goodson Theater. Tickets are $15 for the entire day’s event including post-screening discussions and can be purchased in advance at www.dayofblackdocs.org.

The Stylistics are in concert at Pasadena’s PazNax on May 22 …

“Soledad O’Brien Presents: The War Comes Home – The New Battlefront” a one-time-only event, featuring a film on U.S. veterans facing PTSD followed by a town hall, hits U.S. theatres on May 24. Visit: FathomEvents.com for details.

TC ON TV: May 20 – “Today” (NBC): Puff Daddy & The Family opens the Summer Concert Series. “All The Way” (HBO): Starring Bryan Cranston as LBJ and Anthony Mackie as MLK.

May 22 – “2016 Billboard Music Awards” (ABC): Ludacris and Ciara host this edition that will feature a Prince tribute by Madonna and the debut of Pink’s new single, “Just Like Fire.” “Fear The Walking Dead” (AMC): The gang finally made it to Mexico for this second season finale. “Preacher” (AMC): The much anticipated comic adaptation premieres with a 90-minute episode. “Undercover Boss” (CBS): Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill CEO Lowell Hawthorne is featured.

May 24 – “Meredith Viera” (Syndicated): Nene Leakes, Rev. Run “The Voice” (NBC): Rumors are flying that a 3D hologram of Whitney Houston will be unveiled to duet with judge Christina Aguilera for this season finale.  “The Life of” (BET): Mary J. Blige

May 25 – “Wayward Pines” (Fox): Last summer’s number one scripted network show returns with Djimon Hounsou joining the cast.

May 26 – “Live From Daryl’s House” (MTV LIVE): The O’Jays  “Lip Sync Battle” (Spike): CeeLo Green vs. Russell Peters “Showing Roots” (Lifetime): Set in 1977, two women look to integrate their small town, inspired by the miniseries “Roots” as it hits the airwaves. Uzo Aduba, Cicely Tyson and Elizabeth McGovern star.

TASTY QUIP: “[Hollywood has] to keep going back to what’s been done and what’s successful because they’re pretty much out of fresh ideas.” – JOHN AMOS, the original adult Kunta Kinte, to the Huffington Post on the remake of “Roots”

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Fox offers ‘24’ reboot in fall starring Corey Hawkins appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

On the 20-year anniversary of the legend being felled by a heart attack on stage in Japan, Turman will co-host, along with Kiki Shepard, the inaugural Johnny “Guitar” Watson Heart for Music Foundation Celebration May 17 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center.

The star-studded fundraiser, produced by daughter Virginia Watson to raise money for kids’ instruments, will feature performances by Cedric the Entertainer, Marla Gibbs, Meshell Ndegeocello, Lenny Williams, Barbara Morrison, Doyle Bramhill II, YoYo and her crew, Crystal/Penni, Martin Kimbers (“Color Me Bad”) and Turman’s “A Different World” cast mate Dawnn Lewis.

Turman got his start at 13 on Broadway opposite Sidney Poitier and Ruby Dee in Lorraine Hansbury’s “A Raisin in the Sun.”

During the 1970s, he was featured in “Cooley High,” “Five on the Black Hand Side,” “Thomasine & Bushrod,” “The River Niger,” and so many movies that I suggested he may have been the only black actor in Hollywood not to have to read for “Roots.”

“This is a true story,” replied Turman before chuckling. “When I was asked to be a part of it, the pay was so bad, I said, ‘I refuse to read for this price. We just came out of slavery. What are you doing?’ That’s why you didn’t see me in any Roots.”

The New York native who was actually one of George Lucas’ first choices for Han Solo in “Star Wars,” says he can’t have a production meeting today without his work on “The Wire” coming up. He can currently be seen on Showtime’s “House of Lies,” and in the Jesse Owens biopic “Race,” making its DVD debut on May 31.

He recently returned to New Orleans some 40 years after making “JD’s Revenge” there to portray the patriarch of the family at the center of the upcoming OWN network series “Queen Sugar.”

On working with its director, Ava DuVernay, Turman described her “wonderful poetic eye.” “She knows how to let the setting and the camerawork tell the story,” he added. The mood she is able to set; every director doesn’t have that.”

CROWN JEWELS: AUX.TV is to be applauded for its research into items found in the famed vault of Prince.  Among the goodies are unreleased projects with Sheila E., Stevie Nicks, Chaka Khan, Eve, Angie Stone, Ozzy Osbourne, Carmen Elektra, Apollonia, poet Ingrid Chavez, then wife Mayte, and “Unity 4 The People,” the charity single with Michael Jackson that was shelved because Prince disapproved of Jackson’s intent to buy the Elephant Man’s bones.

CLIPPETTES: The soon-to-open Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture was the beneficiary of $17 million raised by Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta at their bash where Shonda Rhimes threw in $10 million …

Actor/filmmaker Don Cheadle and legendary trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith will receive honorary doctor of arts degrees from California Institute of the Arts on May 13 …

Lee Daniels is now off the Richard Pryor biopic due to the pickup of his new series “Star” for Fox. The hunt is on for a new director with October filming locked with Mike Epps and Oprah Winfrey …

Macy Gray is in concert at the Saban Theatre on May 13 while rappers Fat Joe and Remy Ma are performing a tribute to Big Pun at The Novo Theater …

If Lauryn Hill is looking to make good for a tardy and abbreviated show in Atlanta, how about a charity/freebie for the city’s underfunded National Black Arts Festival? She played it before with The Fugees …

Wendy Raquel Robinson is presenting the all ages musical “Goodbye Birdie,” featuring music by Prince on May 14-15 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center …

M. Night Shyamalan is rolling with a second season of Fox’s “Wayward Pines,” a TNT revival of “Tales from the Crypt” coming, and now a video of the hit “Rise Up” for singer Andra Day …

Teyana Taylor’s Unplugged 2016 Tour stops at The Belasco Theatre on May 17, as The Viper Room hosts B.o.B.’s STFU Tour …

“BWB,” the newly released self-titled album by soul-jazz-funk stars Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard chart …

May 19 is the date of the Musicares Benefit Concert with Smokey Robinson, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Kem, El DeBarge, CeeLo Green and Tamar Braxton at The Novo Theatre.

TASTY QUIP: “My presence was used for my celebrity, not my talent. Not surprised.” – JENNIFER HUDSON on/then off Twitter about not getting a Tony nomination for her first Broadway role in “The Color Purple.”

TC ON TV: May 13 – “Wendy Williams” (SYN): Maxwell sits down on the couch. “Just Let Go – Lenny Kravitz Live” (Showtime): Two hours of your boy.  “Tavis Smiley” (PBS): Dr. Lonnie Smith

May 14 – “Case Closed with AJ Benza” (Reelz): Tupac & Biggie explored. “Saturday Night Live” (NBC): Drake

May 16 – “Jeopardy” (ABC): Melissa Harris-Perry, Michael Steele and Anderson Cooper compete during Power Players Week.  “Roots: A New Vision” (A&E): Here’s an extended sneak peek at the remake.

May 18 – “Empire” (Fox): In time for tonight’s season finale comes the “Original Soundtrack, Season 2 Volume 2’ with the Lyon family collaboration “Chasing The Sky” by Terrence Howard, Jussie Smollett and Yazz. “Black-ish” (ABC): The Johnsons transform into The Evans family on the 1970s classic TV show “Good Times” in this fanciful season finale.

TASTY QUIP: “When I’m gone, only the songs will survive. I know I’m making music that will live on. I don’t go into the studio just to be hot or to hear myself on the radio. Michael Jackson, Tupac, Biggie — part of them lives on in their music, even though they’re not here anymore. That’s really deep, man. The only thing like that is religion.” – SEAN ‘DIDDY’ COMBS announcing to Cigar Aficionado his plan to retire from music after his next album and tour to concentrate on films.

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Johnny ‘Guitar’ Watson to be celebrated appeared first on Wave Newspapers.

Riding the wave of her “surprise” controversial high-art video album “Lemonade,” more than 60,000 fans packed the place, including celebs Usher, Jermaine Dupri, Rick Ross, Kandi Burress and manager Don Juan, Grant Hill and Tamia, Terri J. Vaughn, Miss Lawrence, Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, Monica and reconciled hubby Shannon Brown, and Diddy who was throwing the after-party.

Let’s be real here. Not many performers would be able to follow hip hop mogul DJ Khaled’s opening set which resembled an awards show with top artists 2 Chainz, August Alsina, The Dream and Atlanta’s favorite suns T.I. and Ludacris.

And who else could loom larger than the behemoth screen and accompanying stage that reached out to the 50-yard line of the home of the NFL’s Falcons?

Yet, that she did. When the audio strains opened to a thunderous strength visually certified by THX, you knew you were in for some top-shelf audio. It vibrated through one’s body in a way that could not be ignored. And it was hard to take your eyes off her strut, whether lit or not.

More than 30 songs were represented during the two-hour show that utilized 12 female dancers, a trapeze artist, and a small, mostly unseen band.

She went back to her first solo album with “Me, Myself and I,” and added homages to Donna Summer with some of “Love to Love You Baby” and to Prince, with a recording of “Purple Rain” playing during a costume change, prompting the throng to light up their phones in an impressive display.

No encore was necessary by the time Beyoncé finished with “Halo.” Our bodies and spirit were full. The tour hits the Rose Bowl in Pasadena May 14.

CAUGHT UP AGAIN: Straight-talking soul music legend Millie Jackson was honored this week with a proclamation from Atlanta City Councilman Michael Bond (who knew her music from its heavy rotation in his father Julian’s household).

The singer of hits “Ask Me What You Want” and “It Hurts So Good” was in great spirits but did take the time during her acceptance to mention those that were lost in the last week and a half including Prince, “Me and Mrs. Jones” singer Billy Paul and Leon Hayward (“I Want’a Do Something Freaky To You”), who she said, “No one else mentioned because he was ill for a while.”

Daughter Keisha Jackson, herself a respected vocalist having toured with Erykah Badu and OutKast, talked about being schooled as a 15 year-old from her mother showing her how to do quarterly taxes with papers spread out over the floor.

“She’s one of the few people who came up in the industry when she did who didn’t lose everything,” said Keisha reflectively.  She always managed herself throughout her entire career.  Even when the Internet finally hit, I remember her teaching some of her peers how to log on and search the web. She’s so intelligent. I’m just really happy to say she’s my mom.”

CLIPPETTES: Morris Day and The Time are the special guest performers for Purple Reign – Thixotix 7^th Mother’s Day Extravaganza, May 7 at The Cooper Building …

Christina Aguilera, Kristin Chenoweth, Leona Lewis, David Foster and host James Corden headline the star-studded Rebels With a Cause gala fundraiser May 11 at the Barker Hangar, Santa Monica. Visit: BeARebel.org …

Composer Stewart Copeland (the former drummer for The Police) is performing his new concerto for percussion, Tyrant’s Crush, with the New West Symphony. The performances are May 12-14 in Santa Monica, Oxnard and Thousand Oaks …

Amber Rose is getting a weekly talk show produced by Dr. Phil and son Jay McGraw for VH1 …

Last time I passed on a statement from a rock star post hip surgery, I lived to regret it but 83 year-old Little Richard wants you to know “he’s healthy,” contrary to Internet rumors, reportedly holding it down in a Nashville penthouse …

“Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story,” ends its successful launch at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre on May 15 before moving on to D.C.’s Arena Stage from Aug. 1–28.  Broadway and West Coast swings are hoped for this production spearheaded by “Motown: The Musical” director Charles Randolph-Wright …

Get your passports ready for the first-ever Essence Festival Durban in South Africa (Nov. 8–13). Artists and speakers to be announced later.

TC ON TV: May 7 – “Joy Reid” (MSNBC): The Melissa Harris-Perry vacancy has been filled. “The Real MVP: The Wanda Durant Story” (Lifetime): Kevin Durant’s mom get her story told in this original film executive produced by Queen Latifah and directed by Nelson George. “SNL” (HBO): Alicia Keys

May 8 – “Chasing Waterfalls” (TV1): Inspired by the Book of David. Jasmine Guy is featured.

May 9 – “The Late Late Show” (CBS): Anthony Mackie (Capping a hot box office week in “Captain America: Civil War” by starring and producing a young Johnnie Cochran movie) and Cyndi Lauper

May 12 – “Scandal” (ABC): As this season closes, know that the sixth season’s order has been reduced from 22 to 16 episodes in light of Kerry Washington’s second pregnancy. “Lip Sync Battle” (Spike): Snoop Dogg vs. Chris Paul

THE AUCTION BLOCK:  The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation will be the beneficiary of bidding for the studio audience chairs from the Queen of Daytime’s beloved talk show. Visit: oprah.screenbid.com for a look see. The auction begins on May 5 at 3 p.m.

Duke Ellington’s white baby grand piano, hand-written original music manuscripts, elegant clothing collection and paintings are for sale. Bid in absentia via liveauctioneers.com,  invaluable.com, or visit: guernseys.com.

TASTY QUIP: “It’s a very complicated issue. …You have a white man [Andrew Jackson] on the back of black woman. Not exactly what the dream was.” – W. KAMAU BELL about the Harriet Tubman $20 bill controversy to Sirius XM host Dean Obeidallah

“Tasty Clips” is an entertainment column published in The Wave to update readers on the activities and accomplishments of black celebrities and artists in television, in music and at the movies. To reach Bill Vaughan, send email to tastyclips@yahoo.com. He can also be reached on Twitter @tastyclips.

The post BILL VAUGHAN’S TASTY CLIPS: Beyoncé hits the next level appeared first on Wave Newspapers.