Zack's TV is back for 2026!
It's been a while, but we are back for another year of digital media and entertainment.
This year is our 15th anniversary. We plan on producing some amazing news segments, blogs, videos, and much more.
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6 TikTokers You Should Follow
Check out our list of 6 TikTokers to Follow in '26
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Big Brothers of Hip Hop: Segedric and Ivory Wade
Louisiana natives Segedric and Ivory apply "Pressure" to the Hip Hop market with a hit song
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Rising Stars of Gospel Music
Who will carry on the legacy of the late Richard Smallwood?
The #BlackGirlMagic of 2022 NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championships
For NCAA Women's Gymnastics, the University of Florida's Trinity Thomas is a big deal. The graduating senior holds to continue her streak of perfect 10s at this week's national championships in Fort Worth, Texas. From her flawless Yurchenko 1 1/2 vaults to her sky-high double-layout somersaults on floor exercise, Trinity has mastered the same skills that were popular in the 1990s (before she was born).
If all goes well, Thomas is expected to win gold on floor or with the team competition. Thomas's athleticism excites crowds of all backgrounds, but she's a true role model for young girls who look like her. She exudes a sense of #BlackGirlMagic that makes the sport appear equitable for all. Yet, she stands on the shoulders of her predecessors from collegiate and professional women's gymnastics. The late Dianne Durham (the first black U.S. women's gymnastics champion), Dominique Dawes (the first black women's gymnastics Olympic gold medalist) and Simone Biles (who has so many firsts that we can't name them all).
The Evolution of Black Women In NCAA Gymnastics
This year marks 40 years since Women's Gymnastics became an official championship sport for the NCAA. Over the course of history, black women were not represented in large numbers. With the exception of Corrine Wright Tarver (the first black gymnast to win a NCAA all-around title) and Dee Foster Worley (the first black woman to be a scholarship athlete for the Crimson Tide), many NCAA black female gymnasts were overlooked in the past. Thankfully, the historic strides made by black women in professional gymnastics has opened the door for more recognition and expansion of opportunities. (In fact, Fisk University will be the first HBCU to compete in women's gymnastics and they will be coached by Corrine Wright Tarver.)
Black Women Gymnasts To Watch at Nationals
Trinity's not the only black woman competing at the NCAA championships. In fact, Missouri has the most black female gymnasts competing on one team (5). A full list of all the other talented black female gymnasts is featured below:
- Nya Reed (Florida)
- Sloane Blakely (Florida)
- Bri Edwards (Florida)
- Alex McGee (Florida)
- Sheridan Ramsey (Oklahoma)
- Danae Fletcher (Oklahoma)
- Derrian Gobourne (Auburn)
- Ananda Brown (Auburn)
- Aria Brusch (Auburn)
- Jada Glenn (Auburn)
- Sania Mitchell (Alabama)
- Cammy Hall (Utah)
- Jaedyn Rucker (Utah)
- Sierra Brooks (Michigan)
- Naomi Morris (Michigan)
- Gabby Wilson (Michigan)
- Amari Celestine (Missouri)
- Alonna Kratzer (Missouri)
- Amaya Marshall (Missouri)
- Jocelyn Moore (Missouri)
- Kalise Newson (Missouri)
2020 Notables in Education: Changing Careers, Changing The Game
As 2020 begins, America's teacher shortage crisis continues. In fact, the Economic Policy Institute recently forecast that the teacher shortage could double from 2018 to 2025. However, one analyst disagrees that there's a teacher shortage. Instead, he thinks that states are overlooking available talent.
At ZTL, we have an eye for talent. We see teachers across the country who are striving to make a difference. One trend being overlooked is that many teacher candidates are career-changers. For them, the best role models are current teachers who changed paths in order to change lives.
JORDAN ADDISON
Rochester, New York
Elementary School Teacher
Jordan Addison wants his students to be better decision makers; for him, it's a way of life. When Addison was in college, he was at a career crossroads: he had to decide between becoming a parole officer or an athletic director. Then, a third option became available.
"After graduating, I was presented with an opportunity in the realm of education," Addison remembers. "I thought: 'What better way to lead my people to become the utmost of themselves?'"
Soon, the former athlete changed career paths. Addison enrolled at Nazareth College for the Master of Education program. During graduate school, he was a standout student and "poster child" for the program. (For a brief time, he was featured on the school's website.)
After graduate school, Addison hit the ground running as a sixth grade teacher. Later, he found a position for a fourth-grade classroom. His hard work garnered a New Teacher of The Year Award in 2018.
At the beginning of the 19-20 school year, Addison tried some successful new techniques. "I put students in leadership positions," he explained. "But each student was held accountable by their peers based on our 'Class Mission' and the 'Six Principles'."
In a short time span, Addison's strategy was working. Student behavior had improved, thus he could focus on his teaching. For the young professional, students perform better when they are self-regulated. "I want our kids to understand how it feels to be leaders and not simply take orders from someone," he shared with ZTL.
Several weeks ago, he welcomed his own bundle of joy at home and became a father. But Addison's good fortune was eventually countered with bad news. As Addison enjoyed paternity leave, he was informed that he would lose his job. Now, he is back at the crossroads.
In 2020, Addison has an optimistic outlook. He has received numerous job offers from nearby school districts. Yet, his heart remains faithful to Rochester.
2020 Notables in Business: Problem Solvers, Trendsetters & Global Citizens
As 2020 begins, ZTL salutes business leaders who are opening doors for the next generation. We have chosen 2020 Notables in Business after doing extensive research about people who make investments in their communities. You will see problem-solvers, thought-leaders, and global citizens who create lasting impacts in their respective fields.
PROBLEM SOLVERS
Joshua Mercer
Insurance Agent
Chicago, IL
Joshua Mercer should run for Mayor of Chicago. (No, seriously. The dude is that impressive.) He's a proud, lifelong Chicagoan who is making big moves in business and real estate. For him, selling insurance is part of the family legacy. Mercer's mom is a veteran insurance agent who encouraged him to follow in her footsteps. Yet, he still found time to use his Master's degree in Education to benefit young people in his hometown.
Based on Mercer's work, problem-solving is a major component of his job. His customers/clients seek his help to find the most affordable and efficient insurance plans. However, this process comes with challenges. Mercer's staff works to meet the needs of every customer but there is no perfect insurance plan. Through this, Mercer must engage in problem-solving for his customers (including risk advising and claim adjustments) and for his own business. Still, Mercer's agency is highly rated on review sites and respected throughout Chicago.
Outside of business, Mr. Mercer is involved in the community. He has helped countless youth through his Swish Dreams Foundation and work with Chicago Public Schools. Now, he's gaining notoriety for his advertisements (which can be seen at Mariano's stores in Evergreen Park) and his TV appearances on WCIU-TV's "The Jam". As 2020 progresses, he is going to reach new heights in business.
To learn more about him, click here.
TRENDSETTERS
Erin Jacobs Mays
Pflugerville, TX
Marketing Guru
Erin's on a roll: she's already been selected for Austin Under 40 and Austin Inno's 50 on Fire. (This blog is just the icing on the cake.) As the CEO and Co-Founder of Ebco, Mrs. Mays helps her clients be trendsetters in the fast-paced world of marketing. For the past 20 years, Integrated Marketing Communications has been the main vehicle of this industry. The concept of having one voice across all marketing initiatives is key for a brand's success. Ebco's team understands this and offers their clients ways to be trendy throughout all of their marketing channels.
Mrs. Mays and her team know all about trends. They conduct "trend investigations" for clients-- which help clients do more than they stay ahead of the curve. With Ebco, clients can create a new curve and set their own trends. Through "trend immersions", clients can develop new ways for their brands to reach consumers.
In this new decade, Mays will be leading the way to better marketing experiences.
GLOBAL CITIZENS
Linda Calhoun
Nonprofit Executive
San Francisco, CA
Ms. Linda Calhoun is the ultimate role model for young ladies. According to her official bio, she is an "entrepreneur, activist, and community leader". As the Founder and Executive Producer of Career Girls, Ms. Calhoun connects girls with role models and equips them with valuable life skills for future success. She uses her background in international policy, social justice, and STEM to find ways to help girls achieve equity in the global marketplace.
In 2020, Ms. Calhoun is the multi-faceted professional who can help shift the narrative of the Presidential election cycle. Understanding women's issues is critical for the success of every candidate. Thus, Calhoun's quest to bridge the "imagination gap" will not be vain. She understands the global implications of female empowerment. In due time, her efforts will come to fruition.
**
Throughout the year, we will be adding more Notables in Business. Stay tuned!
PROBLEM SOLVERS
Joshua MercerInsurance Agent
Chicago, IL
Joshua Mercer should run for Mayor of Chicago. (No, seriously. The dude is that impressive.) He's a proud, lifelong Chicagoan who is making big moves in business and real estate. For him, selling insurance is part of the family legacy. Mercer's mom is a veteran insurance agent who encouraged him to follow in her footsteps. Yet, he still found time to use his Master's degree in Education to benefit young people in his hometown.
Based on Mercer's work, problem-solving is a major component of his job. His customers/clients seek his help to find the most affordable and efficient insurance plans. However, this process comes with challenges. Mercer's staff works to meet the needs of every customer but there is no perfect insurance plan. Through this, Mercer must engage in problem-solving for his customers (including risk advising and claim adjustments) and for his own business. Still, Mercer's agency is highly rated on review sites and respected throughout Chicago.
Outside of business, Mr. Mercer is involved in the community. He has helped countless youth through his Swish Dreams Foundation and work with Chicago Public Schools. Now, he's gaining notoriety for his advertisements (which can be seen at Mariano's stores in Evergreen Park) and his TV appearances on WCIU-TV's "The Jam". As 2020 progresses, he is going to reach new heights in business.
To learn more about him, click here.
TRENDSETTERS
Erin Jacobs MaysPflugerville, TX
Marketing Guru
Erin's on a roll: she's already been selected for Austin Under 40 and Austin Inno's 50 on Fire. (This blog is just the icing on the cake.) As the CEO and Co-Founder of Ebco, Mrs. Mays helps her clients be trendsetters in the fast-paced world of marketing. For the past 20 years, Integrated Marketing Communications has been the main vehicle of this industry. The concept of having one voice across all marketing initiatives is key for a brand's success. Ebco's team understands this and offers their clients ways to be trendy throughout all of their marketing channels.
Mrs. Mays and her team know all about trends. They conduct "trend investigations" for clients-- which help clients do more than they stay ahead of the curve. With Ebco, clients can create a new curve and set their own trends. Through "trend immersions", clients can develop new ways for their brands to reach consumers.
In this new decade, Mays will be leading the way to better marketing experiences.
GLOBAL CITIZENS
Linda CalhounNonprofit Executive
San Francisco, CA
Ms. Linda Calhoun is the ultimate role model for young ladies. According to her official bio, she is an "entrepreneur, activist, and community leader". As the Founder and Executive Producer of Career Girls, Ms. Calhoun connects girls with role models and equips them with valuable life skills for future success. She uses her background in international policy, social justice, and STEM to find ways to help girls achieve equity in the global marketplace.
In 2020, Ms. Calhoun is the multi-faceted professional who can help shift the narrative of the Presidential election cycle. Understanding women's issues is critical for the success of every candidate. Thus, Calhoun's quest to bridge the "imagination gap" will not be vain. She understands the global implications of female empowerment. In due time, her efforts will come to fruition.
**
Throughout the year, we will be adding more Notables in Business. Stay tuned!
"The Famous Jett Jackson" (Where Are They Now?)
In 1998, the Disney Channel premiered a groundbreaking series named "The Famous Jett Jackson". The late Lee Thompson Young (1984-2013) played "Jett Jackson", a television star who moved his show from Los Angeles to his small North Carolina town. For three seasons, Young became one of Disney's first faces of diversity and opened doors for other actors/actresses of color to have their own shows. Tragically, he passed away from suicide in August 2013. Yet, his legacy lives on through his fans and former cast mates.
(Montrose Hagins, who played Jett's great-grandmother, passed away in 2012.)
What ever happened to the surviving cast members? Zack's TVLife did some digging to bring you up to speed.
GORDON GREENE ("Sheriff Wood Jackson")
Mr. Greene is now producing and directing his own projects, including "XXENOS" and "Coconut Hut". You can find more information about him on his website, Gordon Greene Projects .
RYAN BAUM ("J.B.")
The Lord told me to tell you that J.B. is a pastor now. Ryan has gone from Ryan Sommers Baum to Ryan Dowell Baum. Baum pastors First Congregational United Church of Christ in Sioux City, Iowa. By the way, Ryan's pronouns are "they, them, and their", so please address Ryan accordingly.
KERRY DUFF ("Kayla")
Kerry Duff is hard to find. She hasn't been active in the entertainment industry and doesn't have a social media presence.
If you have any updates about cast members, please share them below.
Litao Chinese: One of YouTube's Best Mandarin Teachers?
Meet Tao Zheng. ("Taw Jung")
He is a popular YouTube instructor who offers brief Mandarin Chinese lessons on his channel. (For longer videos, viewers have to pay at Litao Chinese.)
Zheng's YouTube subscribers leave positive feedback about the comfortable, slow speed in which he teaches. In addition to that, the male YouTube commenters value Zheng as an instructor who teaches the tones in a masculine voice.
Mandarin Chinese is one of the world's fastest growing languages. In fact, Al Jazeera has launched a Mandarin language site to appeal to 1.4 billion residents of China.
For an example of Litao Chinese on YouTube, check out the video below.
Couples Uncorked: A Relationship Page for EVERYONE
Walter and Christina Donald believe in love.
The Los Angeles-based couple operates "Couples Uncorked", a relationship page on Facebook for singles, married people, divorcees, and widowers. Wherever you are in the relationship cycle of life, The Donalds have something that can inspire you.
The Donalds met in Mississippi when they were students at Rust College. Over the past two decades, they have developed a strong bond which has inspired other couples to pursue love.
If you're looking for love in 2018, stop by Couples Uncorked. You might make a love connection!
Entertainment Pros You Should Know! [NOTABLE '17]
Today, we begin our series, "Notable '17"-- a compilation of leaders who are making big moves in various fields of endeavor.
For our first installment, we'll take a look at people in the entertainment industry who will definitely become household names in the future.
Here are some entertainers, managers, and creative artists worth noting:
1. MOODY BLACK (mOody bLaCk)
Greenville, SC
Website
Spoken Word/ Hip Hop Visual Artist, Storyteller, Photographer, Slam Master
In his own words: "I'm a smart arts teacher who works with teachers to implement poetry in their curriculum. I want to travel the world and share my art to leave a legacy of wealth for my children. I just released my new CD, "The Uncovering, Pt.1" and I am working on a new Hip-Hop CD."
(Maybe he'll get his wish to be on "Ellen" in 2017.)
Stay tuned!
2. NATASHA YOUNGE
Los Angeles, CA
Actress/ Blogger (The Younge Hollywood Blast)
Natasha Younge is a "big deal" for web series creators because she makes a big deal out of their works. As a veteran actress, she understands the struggle. Through her work, she has created a rising tide to "lift all boats." We salute her!
3. JAI SLAUGHTER
Entertainment Host/ "Brandma"
GYST Network
Chicago, IL
As the host of "Talk To Me Tuesdays", Jai gets the scoop on major topics relating to her fellow millennials. In addition to that, she works with GYST Network-- a visual accountability group.
4. WILLIAM MARK
Comedian/ Martial Artist
Chicago, IL
William knows how to make your sides ache-- either from his jokes or his jujitsu skills. He's a multicultural force in Chicago. There's no telling how far he can go in 2017.
5. KATRELL MENDENHALL
Owner, KModels Talent Agency
Chicago, IL
You can't have future entertainers without good agents like Katrell Mendenhall. She represents models and actors in her South Loop office of Chicago. We wish her the best during 2017 and beyond.
6. HERBERT C. HARPER, JR.
Actor
Chicago, IL
Herbert C. Harper, Jr. has a distinguished name with the impeccable work ethic to match. He's making big moves in the Chicago acting scene and wants to land his first major role this year.
Maybe he'll get a role playing "Luther Vandross" in a biopic. You never know!
7. IFEOMA NKEMDI
Actress/ Teacher
Chicago, IL
Ifeoma ("ee-foh-ma") is a classic beauty with over 25 years of experience in the arts. A proud resident of Chicago's West Side, she has traveled all over the world to study her craft. Currently, she passes on her knowledge to her students. It's only a matter of time before "Ms. Nkemdi" has her full circle moment and achieves international fame.
8. MWELWA "MEL" MUSAMBACINE
DJ
Chicago, IL
Twitter page
He's a proud native of Zambia with a global outlook on culture. Just like his DJ work, Mel knows how to "switch up" his flow to keep up with current trends.
9. MELANIE LOREN
Actress
Chicago, IL
Facebook
This former TV news producer is making waves in the acting world. As the daughter of a prominent church pastor (father) and management consultant (mother), she comes from a strong legacy. She has appeared on "Chicago PD" and will appear on the new Fox series, "APB" soon.
10. DREANA C. JOHNSON (DJ 3Snapz)
DJ/ Singer/ Writer
Chicago, IL
Dreana is a proud graduate of "Mizzou" (University of Missouri-Columbia) who gives back to current and future college students in Chicago. When she's not working a 9 to 5, she is pursuing her art as "DJ 3Snapz" and through poetry.
11. VAUGHN KIMMONS (Brown Alice)
Singer/ Artist
Portland, OR
From her early days in Chicago, Vaughn always embraced her individuality. Now, she is "Brown Alice", a popular singer in the Pacific Northwest who transcends musical genres.
She definitely gives an "Andra Day" vibe with "Erykah Badu" tendencies.
12. KORTEZ WALKER
Spoken Word Artist/ Actor
Indianapolis, IN
This married father of 3 is energetic and inspiring. By day, he works in real estate; all other times, he works to promote positive images online and at live performances.
For Kortez, Chicago is only a 2 1/2 hour drive away. He's in a good position to land the perfect role without taking time away from his day job or his family.
13. PROMODAVE
Photographer
Chicago, IL
Website
Dave is my younger brother. (Nothing wrong with a little nepotism). He's a fantastic photographer, with a growing clientele.
* * *
Stay tuned as we honor more people in 2017!
For our first installment, we'll take a look at people in the entertainment industry who will definitely become household names in the future.
Here are some entertainers, managers, and creative artists worth noting:
1. MOODY BLACK (mOody bLaCk)
Greenville, SC
Website
Spoken Word/ Hip Hop Visual Artist, Storyteller, Photographer, Slam Master
In his own words: "I'm a smart arts teacher who works with teachers to implement poetry in their curriculum. I want to travel the world and share my art to leave a legacy of wealth for my children. I just released my new CD, "The Uncovering, Pt.1" and I am working on a new Hip-Hop CD."
(Maybe he'll get his wish to be on "Ellen" in 2017.)
Stay tuned!
2. NATASHA YOUNGE
Los Angeles, CA
Actress/ Blogger (The Younge Hollywood Blast)
Natasha Younge is a "big deal" for web series creators because she makes a big deal out of their works. As a veteran actress, she understands the struggle. Through her work, she has created a rising tide to "lift all boats." We salute her!
3. JAI SLAUGHTER
Entertainment Host/ "Brandma"
GYST Network
Chicago, IL
As the host of "Talk To Me Tuesdays", Jai gets the scoop on major topics relating to her fellow millennials. In addition to that, she works with GYST Network-- a visual accountability group.
4. WILLIAM MARK
Comedian/ Martial Artist
Chicago, IL
William knows how to make your sides ache-- either from his jokes or his jujitsu skills. He's a multicultural force in Chicago. There's no telling how far he can go in 2017.
5. KATRELL MENDENHALL
Owner, KModels Talent Agency
Chicago, IL
You can't have future entertainers without good agents like Katrell Mendenhall. She represents models and actors in her South Loop office of Chicago. We wish her the best during 2017 and beyond.
6. HERBERT C. HARPER, JR.
Actor
Chicago, IL
Herbert C. Harper, Jr. has a distinguished name with the impeccable work ethic to match. He's making big moves in the Chicago acting scene and wants to land his first major role this year.
Maybe he'll get a role playing "Luther Vandross" in a biopic. You never know!
7. IFEOMA NKEMDI
Actress/ Teacher
Chicago, IL
Ifeoma ("ee-foh-ma") is a classic beauty with over 25 years of experience in the arts. A proud resident of Chicago's West Side, she has traveled all over the world to study her craft. Currently, she passes on her knowledge to her students. It's only a matter of time before "Ms. Nkemdi" has her full circle moment and achieves international fame.
8. MWELWA "MEL" MUSAMBACINE
DJ
Chicago, IL
Twitter page
He's a proud native of Zambia with a global outlook on culture. Just like his DJ work, Mel knows how to "switch up" his flow to keep up with current trends.
9. MELANIE LOREN
Actress
Chicago, IL
This former TV news producer is making waves in the acting world. As the daughter of a prominent church pastor (father) and management consultant (mother), she comes from a strong legacy. She has appeared on "Chicago PD" and will appear on the new Fox series, "APB" soon.
10. DREANA C. JOHNSON (DJ 3Snapz)
DJ/ Singer/ Writer
Chicago, IL
Dreana is a proud graduate of "Mizzou" (University of Missouri-Columbia) who gives back to current and future college students in Chicago. When she's not working a 9 to 5, she is pursuing her art as "DJ 3Snapz" and through poetry.
11. VAUGHN KIMMONS (Brown Alice)
Singer/ Artist
Portland, OR
From her early days in Chicago, Vaughn always embraced her individuality. Now, she is "Brown Alice", a popular singer in the Pacific Northwest who transcends musical genres.
She definitely gives an "Andra Day" vibe with "Erykah Badu" tendencies.
12. KORTEZ WALKER
Spoken Word Artist/ Actor
Indianapolis, IN
This married father of 3 is energetic and inspiring. By day, he works in real estate; all other times, he works to promote positive images online and at live performances.
For Kortez, Chicago is only a 2 1/2 hour drive away. He's in a good position to land the perfect role without taking time away from his day job or his family.
13. PROMODAVE
Photographer
Chicago, IL
Website
Dave is my younger brother. (Nothing wrong with a little nepotism). He's a fantastic photographer, with a growing clientele.
* * *
Stay tuned as we honor more people in 2017!
Michael Jackson Fan Strives To Continue His Legacy
He was at work when a co-worker told him that his musical idol, Michael Jackson had died.
"I didn't believe it at first," the 26-year-old graphic design intern said. "Then, I borrowed my co-worker's cell phone to browse the Internet and read the horrible news--and I was in a daze."
Horn immediately headed home and broke down into tears.
At 6-foot-3, the Park Forest, Illinois resident is expected by some to be more of a Michael Jordan fan than the King of Pop. But Michael Jackson's music had a greater impact on his life than any NBA championship.
As a student at Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, Horn channeled the creative spirit of Jackson as a member of the marching band. And in class, he faced some backlash from classmates for expressing love of his favorite pop star. "Yes, I did get teased a whole lot because of my love for the Jackson Family--but also for defending Michael when he was arrested in 2003 for child molestation charges," he recalls.
While in high school, Horn had academic challenges to overcome. He was a special education student with learning differences. For him, Michael Jackson's music was a motivating force in staying on the path to graduation in 2003. Five years later, he received a degree from International Academy of Design and Technology.
"He put a spark in me that I can not let labels or the condition I was living in hold me back from accomplishing the bigger things I want in life," Horn explained.
Being the youthful music aficionado that he is, Horn still listens to Michael Jackson's songs on a daily basis and dedicates most of his Facebook and Twitter posts to the pop legend. He says that Grammy-award winning artist made a long-lasting impact in the entertainment industry and must never be forgotten.
"I ask every fan to honor the legacy of Michael Joseph Jackson not only on his birth and death anniversaries but everyday."
With this music fan leading the way, the King of Pop will never be dethroned.
~ Zack A. Isaacs
Remembering Mr. Hooper, My Church Musician
Harold M. Hooper was a musical genius. For 39 years, he served as the Minister of Music at Third Baptist Church of Chicago, a prominent congregation on the city's South Side. During his time, he became known as "Mr. Hooper"-- the man who could get folks in the spirit with his selection of traditional gospel songs.Last Monday, Mr. Hooper passed away at the age of 74. In a year where my favorite musicians have expired (Prince, Lecresia Campbell, Daryl Coley, and now Joe Ligon), the news of Mr. Hooper's death left me with "the blues". However, my personal memories of his work have served as a postlude.
In 1996, I saw that firsthand as a prospective member of Third Baptist Church. My parents were considering joining, so we started visiting. One thing was for sure: Mr. Hooper could start playing a song and many would erupt in very loud shouts of praise. As a 12-year-old boy at that time, I was startled by the noisy response-- but also intrigued at the gift of the man "on the organ". (Depending on the song, he would also play the piano.)
In the late 1990s, I was a teenager when Mr. Hooper recruited me to sing with the Men's Day choir. I was hesitant at first because I'm not the greatest singer. Yet, Mr. Hooper worked with all of us (ages 15 to 80) to be the best singers possible.
For Mr. Hooper, the music continues in the hearts of his choir members. Now, he's singing a song in Heaven to the one who gave him his gift.
He will be missed.
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
Thursday, December 15, 2016
9:30 a.m. - Wake
10:30 a.m.- Funeral
Third Baptist Church of Chicago
1551 West 95th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
(Gatling's Funeral Home is providing funeral services.)
Social Media Scoops: EMPIRE Season 3
If you want the scoop on Empire Season 3 (premiering September 21 at 9/8 Central on FOX), you need to follow the right people on social media.
The legendary (and youthful) Mario Van Peebles has been in Chicago for the past 2 weeks to direct a future episode of "Empire".
He shared pics of new cast member Taye Diggs with Taraji P. Henson, as well as group selfies with Jussie Smollett and Bryshere "Yazz" Gray.
In addition to that, he had some fun with extras (in the video posted below).
Hopefully, Season 3 will be better than Season 2.
Fox executives must focus on the STORY and not demographics. The demographics will come if the story is good. There's no need to create a cheesy season full of episodes catering and pandering to people of color.
The legendary (and youthful) Mario Van Peebles has been in Chicago for the past 2 weeks to direct a future episode of "Empire".
He shared pics of new cast member Taye Diggs with Taraji P. Henson, as well as group selfies with Jussie Smollett and Bryshere "Yazz" Gray.
In addition to that, he had some fun with extras (in the video posted below).
Hopefully, Season 3 will be better than Season 2.
Fox executives must focus on the STORY and not demographics. The demographics will come if the story is good. There's no need to create a cheesy season full of episodes catering and pandering to people of color.
#BlackMusicMatters | Kindred The Family Soul's "Legacy of Love"
For the past 2 days, Kindred The Family Soul has provided Chicago with musical relief. As the city copes with civil unrest and teacher layoffs, there have been soothing sounds coming from The Promontory in Hyde Park-- courtesy of the aforementioned singing duo. The Philadelphia-based group is here to promote their latest project, "Legacy of Love". (A project that I have already pre-ordered.)
The new project's lead single, "All My People", has powerful lyrics which are very timely and relevant. It's a song about togetherness and unity in a time where people are disagreeing about #BlackLivesMatter and how people should #StayWoke.
For the sake of peace, Kindred's vocalists Fatin and Aja use their music to help listeners focus on the big picture: "One Love".
"Legacy of Love" will be released on Tuesday, August 30, 2016. It is available on The Kulture Shop, iTunes, Google Play, and other digital outlets.
[FTC Disclosure: I wrote this blog on my own without any compensation.]
From Actor To Journalist, Tom Jay Jones Stays Current
Recently, Jones added a new job to his employment repertoire: independent journalist. A few years ago, he hosted entertainment segments for various production companies. Now, the ball is in his court.
He's currently working on news segments about police brutality and community activism.
Check out his report below:
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