Category: Hollywood by Choice

On Saturday May 16, HBO will premiere the highly anticipated drama “Bessie” starring the very versatile and talented Queen Latifah as the legendary Blues singer Bessie Smith. This may be Latifah’s most challenging role in her outstanding career. Queen Latifah says she worked with a singing coach who trained her to sing in Smith’s register.

Don’t know how many of you remember the old comic strip “Little Orphan Annie.” I do, and I loved reading about her adventures. I remember liking her hair, big, red…I even think it predated the Afro. I remember billionaire Oliver Warbucks and I liked the dog Sandy, Annie’s constant companion. I also remember when it went to Broadway, I knew I’d never see it because for me Broadway was a world away.

“Beyond the Lights” will make you believe in love all over again. And what’s so unique about this film is that it’s about Black love.

Now in theaters is the inspiring and true story of a woman who just wouldn’t accept ‘no’ for an answer. From the Rough tells an unexpected story of courage, drive, and a sport that didn’t appear to have room for a Black, female coach.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta is the only reality show I look at on a regular basis. It’s not for the drama, but to watch how these sisters are going after their dreams, taking advantage of their ‘moment in the spotlight’ and really putting in some hard work to do it. From Phaedra Parks going to school to be an undertaker, Kandi Burruss writing and performing in her own musical featuring Gerald Levert, to NeNe Leakes on Dancing with the Stars, they are truly hustling.

Gospel Singer Jessica Reedy is doing so much “Better” these days than in years past.

The buzz is somewhat tapering off regarding the success of the Oscar winning Best Picture 12 Years a Slave, but the impact of the movie and what it implies still has Hollywood movers and shakers buzzing. The two lead characters, Chiwetel Ejiofor (Solomon Northup) and Oscar winner for Best Supporting Actress, Lupita Nyong’o, are cashing in on their good fortune

If you’re like most people, you come with a lot of baggage; old hurts that won’t go away, anger, bitterness and stupidity…and that’s just for starters. Actress and radio personality Tammi-Mac is one such person. Yes, she makes you laugh with her quick wit and sassy comebacks, but sister-girl once carried an incredible load of baggage that weighed her down almost to the point of self-destruction. Now she’s ready to help you shed your baggage in the only way an incredible talent can; through her own story, Bag Lady.

If you’re a single mom, or were reared by a single mom, this movie is for you. Even if you’re not a single mom, or reared by one, do yourself a favor and see this film.