Category Archives: Lifestyle

Venus Williams Promotes Book Come to Win

Tennis champ Venus Williams recently visited Borders Bookstore on State Street in Chicago to promote her book, “Come to Win: Business Leaders, Artists, Doctors, and Other Visionaries on How Sports Can Help Top Your Profession”.

Williams, a three time Olympic gold medalists and entrepreneur, brings together some of the world’s most successful visionaries in politics (Condoleezza Rice), business (Nike co-founder Philip Knight), Fashion (Vera Wang) and sports (Earvin “Magic” Johnson) to discuss how their participation in competitive sports helped them achieve their successes.

Photo by Adam Bielawski

Heineken Inspire

By Tamara Jenkins

D-Nice and DJ Jazzy Jeff spinning amid three floors of food, games and a plentiful supply of Heineken all awaited those lucky enough to snag a ticket to the exclusive, invitation only Heineken Inspire event held June 26 in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood.

The two day event featured souvenir silk screened t-shirts, customized Rolling Stone Magazinecover photos, Wii games, movies, Heineken tasting areas and performances (on June 26) by rapper J. Cole and R&B crooner Ryan Leslie.

J. Cole

The day’s first performance was by J. Cole. Cole, the first artist signed to rap mogul Jay Z’s new label, Roc Nation, held his own on the stage, performing with ease amid the humidity; his impressive mic skills kept fans cool during “Lights Please” and “Who Dat” while Leslie gave a soulful performance, backed by a band, he performed a few songs including hits “Diamond Girl” and “Addiction”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In between performances, brief interviews were granted and UnRated Urban got a chance to speak with DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ryan Leslie.

DJ Jazzy Jeff-

How did you get involved with Heineken Inspire?
I’ve done some events with Heineken in the past and they asked me to do a few (cities); I’m doing Chicago, Philly and Los Angeles. Whenever I work with them, the vibe is always great.

Do you have any upcoming projects, anything you’re working on right now?
Right now, I’m  just in the process of doing a lot of touring, I usually do that into the Fall and then I kinda take a break and go in the studio and figure out musically what I’m going to do next. I’m just going to keep rolling until September, October, then take about a month off, and do some brain time.

Who are some of the artists that you like right now?
I’m weird because I like all kinds of stuff. I would definitely say someone like Drake, I love the Roots, love the Roots new album, Esperanza Spalding, I’m all over the place, I really like J. Cole, it’s funny that he’s here. It’s a refreshing time in music with guys like Drake and J. Cole and the Roots it’s not just the typical things you would (be) use to hearing on the radio; people are starting to stretch like they did in the 70s and 80s. 

Ryan Leslie-

What have you been working on? Can you talk about some of your upcoming projects?
(on the) Production side, I just worked with Ne Yo. (I have a) record with Game featuring Lil Wayne and Bird Man, worked with Keri Hilson, two records with Asher Roth and my forth coming album called Les Is  Moore will be out in the Fall.

What do you think about artists today, like, Lady Gaga or Drake?
I just love artists who aren’t afraid to be expressive and really utilize all of their resources and relationships to make and convey the most powerful messages that they possibly can so as long as artists are doing that, then I respect them.   

Anyone new you really like right now. Someone people may not know about (yet to be discovered talent)?
A kid named Miguel that just opened for me in New York City and (he) has a record with J. Cole; he’s a talented writer and he’s on J Records.

Photos courtesy of  Heineken USA

LisaRaye Teams Up with Essence & Dark and Lovely

By Tamara Jenkins

Chicago’s dark and lovely ladies descended upon the Wit Hotel June 12thfor SoftSheen Carson and Essence Magazine’s Ultimate Fashionista Event.

The event included a casting for the newest Dark and Lovely ad and a panel discussion on how women can achieve a polished look from head to toe as well as tips on how they can look their best everyday.

Tasha Turner, Contributing Editor of Essence Magazine, moderated the panel that featured actress and former First Lady of Turks and Caicos, LisaRaye McCoy, celebrity hairstylist Eric Bland who’s worked with Tyra Banks, Lisa Ling and Star Jones and celebrity stylist/fashion correspondent Carlton Jones whose clients include Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott and Alicia Keys.

Key topics included creating a budget when shopping, befriending store sales associates, shopping sample sales, recycling an older wardrobe with tailoring and experimenting with different styles. Also discussed, things that can kill a look- inappropriate clothing, over accessorizing and bad hair.

Panelists agreed the best look always starts with healthy hair. McCoy divulged her secrets of wearing wigs and weaves to maintain her mane and Bland stressed the importance of trimming which should be done every 3-6 weeks. The discussion concluded with final tips from panelists and audience questions.  

Following the discussion UnRated Urban spoke with LisaRaye McCoy about her upcoming projects and she stated they included the second season of her successful TV One reality series The Real McCoy, launching her social media networking organization B2B (Back to Business) and the VH1 film entitled “Single Ladies” co-starring Stacey Dash and Lauren London produced by Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Productions.

The winner of the national casting will be announced in the October issue of Essence Magazine.

 

 

 

 

 

Photos by Adam Bielawski

Ced’s Urban Circus

By Tamara Jenkins

Roller skaters, gymnasts, dancers, a contortionist and a man on stilts were the backdrop for Cedric the Entertainer’s Urban Circus. The adult themed circus was taped for television on June18th at the Chicago Theatre as part of TBS’s Just for Laughs Comedy Festival held in Chicago June 15-19.

Chicago comedian Lil Rel warmed up the crowd with jokes about his family and poked fun at female in the audience by referencing her “Flavor Flav” sunglasses she bought from the beauty supply store.

A live band brought the noticeably slimmer “ringmaster” aka Cedric the Entertainer dancing to the stage and he went right into jokes about the current recession “American’s went from Gucci to Forever 21”.

The impressive circus talent line up included JB Smoove ( from the  HBO series Curb Your Enthusiasm), Sommore ( The Original Queens of Comedy) and Russell Peters.

Standout moments included JB Smoove’s take on self protection by getting the “jump on people” and Sommore’s  desire to pimp the game Queen Latifah style-“who else has a Jenny Craig commercial and a Pizza Hut commercial at the same time?”

Surprise guest Jerry Seinfeld helped recreate Cedric’s driving a space shuttle skit from the Original Kings of Comedy tour. The evening also featured performances by Chicago dance group the Footwork Kingz, street performers Chicago Boys and steppers from the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. The circus will air June 23rd on TBS.

Photos by Dan Locke

After-the-Show: w/ Pierre Edwards

By Sommer Thorton

Comedian Pierre Edwards brought the house down at the taping of Martin Lawrence Presents: The 1st Amendment Stand-Up Series last night. Most remember Pierre from his days on Def Comedy Jam, and BET’s Comicview. In 1997 he starred in How to Be a Player and B*A*P*S, making him one of the most successful comedians at that time. Pierre, who says that beneath all the layers of his jokes there’s a real story, chatted with me after his set about the current state of the Biz, his 20 year career, and the renewed appeal of light-skinned men in America.

As a final send off to his performance, Pierre dropped his microphone on stage and threw up his hands. He explained to me that he was expressing a bit of resentment at the fact that he feels he doesn’t get the respect he deserves in the industry. “I was scheduled to go on at the 8:00 pm taping but they switched me at the last minute. They treated me like a rookie.”  Usually the most popular acts are booked for a primetime taping. The undisputed A-lister of the 6pm show, Pierre feels that other less popular comedians are chosen over him because he doesn’t “play the game.” Pierre doesn’t drink, smoke, or have a lot of different women around, so that, he says may be one reason.  

Another may be that in the era of 5 minutes of fame, the comedy industry is very competitive. Gone are the days of Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy comedy specials and lucrative movie spin-offs. Even after a comedian breaks into the industry, they must evolve with ever-changing media to keep working.

However, the outlook for Pierre is not at all gloomy. He has a new book, “My 100 Homies and Phonies of Hollywood” set to be released in June, and he’s touring with a new stage play, Loving Him is Killing Me, opposite Angie Stone and NeNe Leakes.  And since the election of President Barack Obama, the light-skinned brotha is making a comeback. Years ago Pierre made his dating plight -the plight of the light skinned black man known to the world. In his act, Pierre would joke about how the appeal of the Al B. Sures, Debarges, and Mario Van Peebles of the world was overshadowed in the 90’s by heartthrobs like Wesley Snipes, Denzel Washington, and Blair Underwood.  But the election of President Barack Obama has made light skinned men sexy again.

Pierre then reflected on the truth behind his timeless joke. “It’s an old joke-that came from reality. Women weren’t feeling light-skinned [men] back then. But it reflects the ugly truth about complexion and our people.” Pierre is easy on the eyes, yet he jokes that he still hasn’t had luck finding Ms. Right.  In his earlier set, Pierre said “I’m looking for a wife. I don’t want a dip (mistress).” Yet seconds later, he broke down the essential rules of adultery: always cheat with someone better than your woman – she’ll be more understanding; and the 10/10 rule. While Pierre’s jokes about commitment may displease a potential Ms. Right, he kept the couples in the audience laughing and raising eyebrows at each other. “It’s what they need to hear.” Pierre says. “If you’re gonna cheat, this is the reality.”

 A no-nonsense crowd is one of the many reasons Pierre loves to perform in Chicago. We ended our chat by talking about some of Pierre’s favorite spots to hang out in the city. Though it’s closed now, the Clique on Michigan Avenue was his favorite nightclub. “I really like the downtown area. I love this city from April to September.” – Ditto Pierre.

1st Amendment Stand-Up Brings Latest and Greatest Comics to Chicago Theater

By Sommer Thornton  

The fifth season of Martin Lawrence Presents: The 1st Amendment Stand-Up series is being filmed this week at the Chicago Theater. Last night, the first two sets included favorites like Sandra Bernhard, Jimmy “JJ” Walker (Good Times, Everybody Hates Chris), Gary Owen (House of Payne), Pierre, and local comedian turned radio personality, Leon Rogers. The lineup represented many demographics, and tackled topics like immigration, gay rights, Maury Povich, the Obamas, infidelity, and of course sex.

Host Sheryl Underwood, a veteran herself, reminisced with the audience about her old hang out spots in Chicago. Sheryl is a South-Side native, so she was especially proud to be back amongst friends and family. When asked why Chicago was his favorite city to perform in, comedian Pierre commented, “Chicago is real. People here just get it.”

Some of the funniest moments came from the discussion about sex and relationships. Power 92’s Leon Rogers gave the audience a new word for oral sex. “Instead of saying gimme some ‘*&^#@,’ call it ‘wacka flocka.’” Wacka Flocka is actually a new rap artist. Leon’s explanation for why oral sex should now be called “wacka flocka”, “cause that’s the sound men wanna hear when ladies are doing it!” Pierre, who has appeared on BET’s Comicview as well as How to Be a Player, reminded the audience of the 10/10 rule to infidelity. “The side-chick can’t call after 10 pm or before 10am.”

Other memorable moments included Jimmy “JJ” Walker’s reenactment of a typical Maury Povich DNA results show, and Gary Owen’s comparison of a Catholic mass versus a Baptist church. “I thought it was rude to talk while the pastor was speaking until I went to a black church.” As a white comedian who has rose to the top of the comedy biz, Gary Owen keeps crowds laughing at the hysterics of his interracial marriage. “Sometimes I sit at my kids’ sports games and pretend I’m not their dad, just to hear what people will say.”

Executive Producer Martin Lawrence has come full circle from a guest starring role in a cult classic 2 decades ago, to numerous comedy specials, his own sitcom, movies, to finally his own stand-up comedy show. One of Martin’s first big breaks came as the host of Russell Simmons’s Def Comedy Jam on HBO in the 90’s- a stand-up show which catapulted Sheryl Underwood, Cedric the Entertainer, Steve Harvey, and countless others into stardom. Most of the comics of the 1st Amendment Stand-Up series either guest starred on Def Jam or were avid viewers.

Photos courtesy of Starz Entertainment

Interview with Donnell Rawlings (AKA Ashy Larry)

Writer, actor and comedian Donnell Rawlings made his mark on the comedy world as a cast member on the now defunct Chappelle’s Show.  Whether a background player or portraying his stand out character Ashy Larry, Rawlings became a viewer favorite and a rising star.

As an actor, Rawlings has been featured in TV shows (The Wire, Law & Order , Third Watch and The Corner) and films (Legacy, Car Babes and Fifty Pills.  Most recently Rawlings created the website Bootlegcomedy.com. Recently in Chicago for performances at Zanie’s Comedy Club, UnRated Magazine spoke with the funnyman.

How did you get your start in comedy: I would go to comedy clubs as a fan and would heckle the comedians. One day the owner challenged me and I performed and I’ve been doing it for 14 years.

So you were a trouble maker: Yes, I gave my mother trouble in the delivery room. I’m a notorious trouble maker

How did you get on the Chappelle Show: Dave’s Friend Neil Brennan (co-writer on the show) was a PA for In Living Color and he noticed my audition. I told him if you’re ever in a situation, throw me a bone and that’s how I got on the show

What was it like working with Dave and Charlie? Was it funny all the time or were you guys serious: (We were) serious in performing but it was constantly funny. I would go into work early and leave late.  Dave gave us freedom to do what we do-bring comedy to the table

Do you or have you spoken to Dave? Would you work with him in the future if the opportunity presented itself: Some of us still talk more than others, we see each other on the circuit

Who are your idols, mentors: Because I never thought I would be a comedian, my mentors were uncles, my mom and dad. Everything happened by chance. I’m a fan of Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence

What do you think is the current state of comedy: It’s the only field that’s recession proof. People aren’t working but still find money to get a laugh. Comedy is not hurting right now

Anyone you want to work with in the future: Jewish people. None in particular. Because their checks clear. (I’ve worked enough) with Pookie and Ray Ray

Which do you like better: movies or television: I like the art of acting-Acting 75% of the time. I like playing different roles……playing someone else

What is your favorite movie: The Five Heartbeats

Best experience so far in your career: Everything has been a learning experience throughout my career there has always been growth

What do you do to relax and enjoy yourself: Read scriptures and listen to 50 Cent

Advice to young comedians, actors and writers coming up: Stay focus, stay funny or get out!

Future projects, what are you working on now: I’m working on a comedy porn (movie) -it’s the first of its kind. It’s about a comedian who doesn’t do well (not funny) and they find out he’s well endowed and he starts a porno career. Its call Black Cocktails. But seriously, I’m working on bootleg comedy.com Chelsea Lately Show and doing my stand up.