Coffee Conversations with Greg J: Recent Episodes
Beach City Radio
Casual, Culturally Relevant and compelling conversation with Today's thought leaders from a decidedly diasporic perspective. From LA to Nairobi, the topics are meant to inform, and inspire the Beloved Community.
We wanted to get an update on the crisis in Haiti. and then Trump made the outrageous claim that Haitian immigrants are eating cats and dogs in Springfield, OH. Today, we are joined by Haitian Community activist Dr. Jude Azad who shares with us the hooros in Haiti, and his community'sd experience in Springfield as rumps remarks have ignited a firestorm of hate against Haitians in thier town.
As we are consumed with a contentious presidential election, are we in danger of losing our African Centered Consciousness? Are we losing the essence of African Centered thought? How do we reconcile our ccultural center in this day and time that also tries to stoke our patriotism? Dr. Tony Browder joins us to discuss our Ancestral Intelligence, encouraging the audience to read and research and become aware and educated about our African origins. Dispel the yths told. Fascinating discussion.
Trump exhorts all Christians to vote for him... What does this mean? We reached out to one of our most endearing theological scholars and Church leaders, Dr. Mark Whitlock, Pastor of the Reid Temple AME Church in Glenn Dale, MD for perspective.. This is fascinating discussion from a black church perspective...
The Nationa Association of Black Journalists is holding its national convention this week in Chicago. They invited Former President Donald Trump. Many objected to the invitation, some even resigned their membership within the organization. And then the line of questioning... we reached out to longtime NABJ member and veteran, renowned news anchor Beverly White (now retired) as she reflects on what she witnessed today in a fireworks of a day at the NABJ Convention.
What a whirlwind of events!! First the debate debacle.... then the Assassination Attempt... then Presidential COVID... then the bombshell announcement of pulling out of the race and endorsing VP Kamala Harris... tens of thousands of black women and men mobilize to raise millions of dollars and to drum up support for this historic moment... We reached out to speak with Carolyn Fowler, Controller of the California democratic Party and Chair of the Women's Caucus for the Party... she shares process and perspective in this important time.
Its been thirty years since the dismantling of Apartheid in South Africa. Nelson mandela merged from 27 years of imprisonment. Duly Elcted President and the long fought democratic government was put in place. Now, its been thirty years. Where is South africa now? Hat are the triumphs? What are the challenges? WQe are joined live from Johannesburg South Africa by Pastor Kelvin Sauls as he shares from a faith based social justice lens. We know him from his activism in South LA, but here we are hearing his perspewcdtive from his hometown of El Dorado Park, located in the township of Soweto, South Africa. Fascinating..
It's a sad story. In the 6th District near Martin Luther King Jr. Park, are various artistic expressions in homage to Dr. King. ON such expression of street art was a utility box adorned with a beautiful painting of Dr. King. Unfortunately, gang culture made thier presence known by defacing the face of Dr. King with the identification of thier set. It was tragic and alarmed many in the community. With the help of concerned residents, i was able to locate the artist and made provision for her to get reimbursed for the materials she would use to repaired the vandalism. By the time she got there, the City had already come through and whitewashed the entire box. The situation gives pause to examone public art policies, challenges and triumphs as the Arts Council of Long Beach fervently advocates for mural repair and maintenance policies within the City. Listen. Its fascinating
South African Jazz Movement: I am often asked about the music of Africa. Sure, we hear Afrobeats, that awesome genre centered from a lot of Nigerian artists, but what about other expressions of Music from other parts of the continent? Other genres like r&b, jazz? On the next Coffee Conversations with Greg J., we explore the music of South Africa… more specifically the genre of jazz and the movement to preserve its legacy. We are reaching out to Johannesburg South Africa to speak with renowned radio personality and Musicologist Nonn Botha as we explore the music and trends happening on the continent. Is Jazz dying? What is the legacy of Hugh Masekela and artists like him… we are getting jazzy in an African way… streaming live later today on FB and Instagram and YouTube.. and On demand thereafter with audio on your favorite podcast platforms… #global #arts #culture #commuity #musicent:
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As we consider issues of the eelectorate, Reparations are an issue that is making its presence known in the halls of the California State Capitol. Cali is the only state to have created a Reparations Task force where legislators have undertaken a massive and comprehensive study of the issue of Reparations - the systemic cause in the history of the State, what would the award look like, who is entitled to compensation and many more considerations. We talk with Chris Lodgson of the grassroots advocacy organization Coalition for a Just and Equitable California. They have been working shoulder to shoulder with the Task Force and have a strong perspective on why we should receive reparations in the Golden State. Fascinating discussion.
Last week, we were honored to hear from renowned journalist, witer, and Former UN Official Monique Clesca as she shared an "on the ground" perspective of the chaos erupting in Haiti. Armed gangs have taken over large swaths of land and government has been rendered ineffective. Two prison breaks and unbridled violence are happening all around. When we livestreamed this we encountered many audio problems, so this rebroadcast is the fully repaired interview. This is fascinating and substantive discussion about the Haitian situation happening right outside Monique's doorstep. We are grateful for Ms Clesca's time and we ferveently pray her safety.
We welcome renowned Pan African Scholar and historian Tony Browder to the coffee table as legacy of the late great Pan African ScholarDr. Runoko Rashidi is discussed. We explore the essence of Pan African Consiousness and the importance of this history for people of African descent in this United States of America. We discuss the new documentary produced by Tony Browder that chronicles the life of Dr. Rashidi. This is a powerful discussion
On this episode of Coffee Conversations with Greg J., we are lifting up an incredible project in Ghana, the Pan African Heritage Museum Listen as Kojo Yankah joins us from Cape Coast Ghana, to share the whys and wherefores of this great museum . In the meantime, go to www.pahmuseum.org to see the entire digital exhibit. Learn how you can support the building of this great edifice and open your hearts and mind towards a consciousness of history. OUR history.
This week we will continue our examination of the Making of Hip-Hop with a fascinating conversation with @Darryl James. He is a publisher, writer, entrepreneur and social critic. He was the Publisher/Editor of RapSheet, the first Hiphop Newspaper, the writer for HipHop Countdown and Report, the first nationally syndicated rap radio show and is a respected author, social critic and entrepreneur.
Just as we are enthralled with the NFL playoffs, so are our African brothers and sisters enthralled with the Africa Cup of Nations foootball tournament (soccer) … we have Rodney Knox former Marketing Director for the San Francisco 49ers and Edward Aiken reknowned radio and television sports journalist in Accra Ghana… we contrast rgw two worlds of football and football…
History shows that the Black Church has a been essential in our fight towards freedom and equality. But these are unprecedented times. We sit and chat with Rev. Kelvin Sauls, a progressive, prophetic and Pan-African Pastor engaged in trans-national emancipatory faith-rooted organizing at the intersection of South LA and South Africa.
The global reset is real and we've invited Afro-futuristic Researcher, Sadiki Bakari to discuss Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies and what they mean to us. Our digital devices are really startling us. Clearly major developments are happening in the digital space. and what in the world is Transhumanism?? Coffee is on at Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
As we talk about 50 years of hip-hop, we gather with Industry legend Violet Brown and iconic radio broadcaster Greg Mack to talk about the early days of hip-hop. Violet was the premier buyer for Wherehouse Records and Greg was the nucleus of the crew at 1580 KDAY, the first commercial radio station to present a rap format on the west coast. This is legendary conversation. PLUS we have a surprise guest appearance by the GodFather of West Coast HipHop A;onzo Williams as he shares about his Compton roots and reminisces about Eazy E, This is one for the ages...
Although the original broadcast came as a subject change after a robust discussion of Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary, the topic deserves its own podcast... We are talking about the Women's Tackle Footbal League - a national phenomenon as the dialogue amplifyes women in sports. This is serious business. Join, music producer extraordinaire Dwayne "Muffla" Simon and the Commissioner of the WTFL as we have a conversation about the league and women's sports in general.
And so as everyone is talking about the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop, we continue our series on the Making of Hip-Hop. When Hip-Hop emerged, I was a young industry executive and that gave me a front row seat to what is now the biggest music genre ever. Today, we speak with a renonwed rap artist, radio star and entrepreneur Felicia Morris aka The Poetess. She released an album back in the day when female rappers were not as prevalent as today. Joining us is journalist Sheena Lester, who was an editor at Vibe Magazine, Rappages and has many jopurnalistic projects under her belt as an observer of hip-hop culture.
The brawl in Montgomery had everyone talking. I commented on a facebook post after viewing ONE single point of view. A view that made me comment that the now renowned "Aquaman" swam over but didnt do anything. I wasnt dissing him because actually I was still giving him props. I erred however because I had not viewed other video that clearly showed him gettinjg into the fray as he should. But the comments and hate that came my way!! whew!
We also reflect on the military coup in Niger..... plsu more cultural observations on Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
As the City reels from hearing astoundingly racist comments caught on tape and spewed by LA City Council President Nury Martinez, Gil Cedillo, Kevin DeLeon and Ron Herrera, The City is in an uproar. Renowned academic, Dr, Anthony Samad and political nalyst, aithor and blogger Jasmyne Cannick joins to discuss and analyze the cibtroversy and its affect on the Black Community.
The struggle towards equity and inclusion in the movie business has always been a long and arduous fight. We always think of the actors and actresses in front of the camera but what about the stuntmen and stuntwomen. We're talking to two veteran stuntmen Alex Brown and Henry King alongside Robert Sausedo, CEO of Community Build, the venerable community develop,emt and social justice advocacy organization located in Leimert Park
As our communities emerge from pandemic recovery, clearly the future of work has changed. New skill sets are needed in the workplace creative spaces, Technology is the foundation toward commerce. How are we preparing our young minds for advancement in these days and time. How do we encourage learning and creativity in this rapidly changing world. We are talking with visionary educator/entrepreneur Dana Hammond as he describes the successes, challenges and adventures of running a charter school full supported by the Los Angeles Unified School District and breaking new paradigms in educational standards. This is a great discussion,,,,
We contemplate the essence of theater from a black perspective, What are the triumphs and challenges of producing plays and musicals. Are we promoting the pornography of Black Pain? What about film? We are telling our own stories with Sandra Evers-Manly, Founder of the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center.
The passing of Queen Elizabeth II is a global hostorical occurrence, Much is being said about her legacy, I began to contemplate the civil rights movement in the UK and decided to reach out to a black newspaper in London to gain the community's perspective. We are excited to welcome @LeahMahon, journalist at The Voice, a 40 year old black newspaper serving London
As we contemplate African American Music Appreciation Month, We are chopping it up with renowned collector, historian and lecturer Bill Doggett as we exolore the early history of African American Music. This is a fascinating discourse
The Creative Economy continues to be a vibrant and compelling conversation here... We're linking with Robert Sausedo, CEO of renowned Community Based organization Community Build to discuss the importance of arts and culture advocacy as the City recovers. We're joined by legacy arts and culture icon Lula Washington of the Lula Washington Dance Theater. So happy to continue the discussion with two deeply comitted Arts Advocates.
This will be a very interesting conversation with Margaret Kreeger, Esq, a renowned industry instrumental in breaking barriers to segments of the working industry. These breakthroughs led to the formation of the Black Stuntmen and Women's Association.
We reach across the oceans to link in with Senegalese music star and renowned actor in African Cinema, Ismail Mbaye. We are talking about his latest music offering, his acting career and rge global music arts and culture scene,,, This one is interesting because the entire conversation is spoken in his native touncue of Woloff... translated by my friend also from Senegal Bro. Boubacar,,, Thanks Thornell Jones for this incredible global interaction
As the election looms near, we are inundated with a plethora of negative advertising. In Long Beach, super negative mailers are hitting community mailboxes. In Longs Angeles a parade of negative television ads rare dominating our viewing consciousness... Siting with us with coffee and contemplations
Steven Neal = President, Lomg Beach Harbor Commission
Jasmyne Cannick = Journalist, Poltocal Cnalyst and Democratic Committee Delegate
Regina Wilson - Executive Director, California Black Media Network
The State of California has mandated that a task force investigate the feasibility for roviding and distributing reparations for descendants of slave, The hearings have been going on and we're sitting to talk with renownd journalist Antonio Ray Harvey of the California Black Media Network so to take a look at the process.... Reparations in memory of our ancestors...
Cinversations of the Creative Economy continue as we turn our lens globally. We're talking to the Executive Director of the Atlanta Black Theater Festival, Toni Simmons-Henson. We just linked up with her in Ghana and now that we are back in the States , we're talking about the challenges and triumphs of working toward a global creative economy. And Surprise, Toni is reporting live from honduras!!!!
Our serues about the creative economy is a result of a conversation we had with Albert Lord of the African American Legacy Project and Community Build, a prominent advocacy organaiation in the Crenshaw District, We believe that a vibrant creative economy is essential to strong communities.
As communities and municipalities recover, setting infrastructure for the arts is an important consideration within the context of a creative economy.
Stan Washington, president & CEO of Pantheon Business Consulting LLC is the developer and project executive for overall property management, pre-development, programming, development and construction of the Stocker Street Creative Redevelopment Project (SSC)
Also in the conversation is Ayuko Babu, Founder and President of the Pan African Film Festival, along with Gil Robertson, President of the African American Film Critics Association
Once completed, the SSC is going to change the Crenshaw Corridor and more importantly give Black creatives another seat at the table.
Originally streamed in Black History Month, we did not post to the podcast library until now. Dr. Daniel Walker examines Black Hisptory Month and why it matters. This is a great conversation!!!
The Rent is too high! Should I buy? Or Rent? how do I buy? Are there programs to help me purchase a home. In this day and age, these aer essential questions. Tunua Thrash-Ntuk is the Managing Director of the Long Beach Center for Economic Inclusion. She is here to share vital information and to invite SOuthern Californians to a homebuyers education seminar .....
On the heels of the annual "State of the Port" report, We spoke with Steven Neal for a check in on how the Port of Long Beach is handling it's mission to keep the supply chain moving and relieve the backlog of cargo ships in the Long Beach Harbor... Big Job. Great conversation...
Industry vets choppin it up. Thornell Jones is our guest today as we talk about the "Slap heard 'round the world" We're talking Grammy Awards... We're talking about his quest to run for Governor within the Florida Chapter of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. He has been a leader in Entertainment Marketing for over 20 years learning the business from the ground floor first as an intern and then as a Financial Analyst for Capitol Records. He launched his career in Marketing with several labels beginning at Mercury, then Giant, Motown, A&M, MJJ Music and Hidden Beach where he generated nearly $60 Million in revenues launching the company along with developing the careers of Kindred the Family Soul, Mike Phillips, BeBe Winans, and Jill Scott. An innovative marketing mind, Jones has furthered the careers of a broad range of artists with household names including Darius Rucker, Tatyana Ali, and Diana Ross. A 18 year voting member of the Recording Academy, he holds 12 Grammy certificates for his marketing with Jill Scott, Ann Nesby, Calvin Richardson, Anthony David, India.Arie, Vikter Duplaix, and most recently, Angie Fisher. Recent client projects include Chance The Rapper (ESPY and Grammy performances), Siedah Garrett’s 30th Anniversary of “Man In The Mirror”, Two Beats;One Soul, and the roster of Isotopia Records including Miss Velvet and the Blue Wolf, Baby Raptors, and label founder Constance Hauman.
Thornell has worked closely with Greg J to host a number of global cultural exchanges with artists, broadcasters, music awards producers and influencers from South Africa. Representatives from the South African Broadcasting Corporation and Ukhozi FM
In addition to producing dozens of music videos, he was Executive Producer for The Original Jill Scott: A Documentary which aired on the CENTRIC Network. Currently developing a documentary on the multi-generational influence of George Clinton, Jones also helped to develop a new live music television series with NFocus Entertainment, Real Music Live. Jones has also developed Reality TV sizzle reels for Canada’s R&B Juno award winner Divine Brown, and R&B/funk duo Kandy Apple Redd.
As the nation recovers from a season of pandemic dangers, social justicige reckoning and electoral uncertainties, one thing is sure, a vibrant arts sector is essential. And so we begin our deep dive look at the Creative Economy from an African Americab=n Perspective, Starting with this first of a four part series: African Americans in Classical Music. We talk with George Davis former Executive Director of the California African American Museum, and Professor Janisse White, Classical music scholar, historian and advocate.
Brave New World of NFT'sL Rhonda Love, Founder Blockchain Camp
Reflections of the Supermint NFT Conference. It was one of the first of its kind. two days of NFT, Crypto Blockchain interspersed with food, hiphop and lifestyle.
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When we heard Whoopi Goldberg was suspended from "The View" because she made remarks considered anti Semitic in nature, we began to contemplate the decision. Was she wrong? Why? What don't we know? What are our Jewish Brothers and Sisters feeling in this day and time?. What is the Holocaust? Is this hidden history? Are Jewish people a race? Where is the disconnect? So we reached out to Rabbi Scott Fox of the Temple Israel in Long Beach, CA to sip coffee and discover culture, religion and perspectives,,,, right here on Coffee Conversations with Greg J
In my time serving on the Board of Directors of the Arts Council for Long Beach, one of the most interesting cultural destinations I have been to is the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA). This arts and culture institution is celebrating 25 years in Long Beach and so we are sipping coffee with @Solimar Salas, Vice President of Museum Content & Programming
The Black CHurch has always been a haven of hope for the community and in these strenuous days and time, the church needs to step into its hertiage of serving our community. We talk with Bishop Todd Ervin Sr as he describes how his church is serving the community, providing free COVID testing, job development services, food giveaways and so much more. All in the name of uplifting our people in such a time as this.
We're sipping coffee with Dr. @sharifabatts Sharifa Batts, DBA, MBA - as we talk about diversity and equity in business development, and education and the type of leadership needed in these turbulent times.
The pandemic has cancelled MLK festivities all over the Southland and indeed the nation. But that doesn't stop us from pausing to acknowledge the life and legacy of one of Black America's most renowned freedom fighters, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. . Recorded on King Day, January 17, 2022, Greg J contemplates with Rhonda Love of DreamKreator Studio, Pastor Mark Whitlock, of Reid Temple of Glenndale Maryland.... Happy King Day!
We often talk about the faith community and it place in the uplift of our neighborhoods. The Black Church needs to remain at the forefront of the work that involves healing urban communities. We're chopping it up with the leader of one of the nation's pre-eminent faith based community development organizations. Dr. Belinda Allen, Executive Director West Angeles Community Development Corp. talks community, progress and interactions necessary to be effective in such a time as this
THe Honorable Jan Perry has a new job. She's the Executive Director at Shelter Partnership, a leading advocate fighting homelessness. We're talking about this incredible domestic issue and what her visions are for alleviating homelessness. Fascinating conversation
Crypto Currencies, MetaVerse, Non Fungible Tokens... what does it all mean? This is a great conversation with two of the top African American women leading the way in this new space.... A great start if you want to know more about Crypto Currencies....
Global Contemplations as Rhonda Love joins Greg J to reflect on trade with Africa. They've just returned from the Wakanda One Trade Expo in Ghana and share observations about the Diaspora. They are joined by renowned educator, diplomat, global business influencer Ambassador Charles Stith. Fascinating discussion....
He is a legend. The undisputed Godfather of West Coast HipHop. He discovered NWA. He was a mentor for Dr. Dre., He was there when Compton and Long Beach got it together..... The history is not written with his name. We sip coffee and chop it up about music history.... Alonzo Williams joins us.
In California, the Gubernatorial Recall Election captured the attention from across the country. Politicians from all over the country flocked to the state in support of Governor Gavin Newsom. At Beach City Radio, we wanted to be a conduit and source of information. And so we presented a townhall meeting featuring some thought leaders in the world of politics.
We sought to be balanced and invited Carolyn Fowler – Chair of the Women’s Caucus, California State Democratic Party/Democratic National Committee; Councilmember Al Austin II – 8th District, City of Long Beach, Dr. Anthony Samad – Executive Director, Mervyn Dymally Economic and Political Institute, California State University, Dominguez Hills; and Craig DeLuz, California Republican Assembly.
n California, amongst all that we have to deal with in this present time, we are now confronted with a special election. We are being asked to decide whether we want to recall Governor Newsom. There are so many things we need to know regarding our ballots, how to vote, what our vote means and so much more. We are honored to have the honorable Dr. Shirley Weber, California Secretary of State here to sip coffee and give us the real information. Plus we'll chat about other issues facing the State and wax poetic about university and African American History.
n California, amongst all that we have to deal with in this present time, we are now confronted with a special election. We are being asked to decide whether we want to recall Governor Newsom. There are so many things we need to know regarding our ballots, how to vote, what our vote means and so much more. We are honored to have the honorable Dr. Shirley Weber, California Secretary of State here to sip coffee and give us the real information. Plus we'll chat about other issues facing the State and wax poetic about university and African American History.
Recent community tragedies have turned our contemplations to the notion of Gender Based Violence that plagues the black community. In the Los Angeles Community, the murder of banking executive and beloved community advocate Michelle Avan has deeply impacted our psyche. We are wrought with sadness, anger and shock, And so We sip coffee with Kandee Lewis, Executive Director of The Positive Results Corporation and a Civil and Human Rights Commissioner in the City of Los Angeles. We're contemplating resources, support and consolence for Black Women all over the diasporic black community.
This program is produced in honor and memory of Ms. Michelle Avan
By a vote of 18-4, the Texas Senate recently voted to pass a bill banning critical race theory in Texas schools. Senate Bill 3 now heads to a stalled Texas House, where a quorum has remained broken for days after House Democrats journeyed to Washington, D.C., to advocate for federal legislation in response to "election integrity" bills moving through the special session. Texas State NAACP President Gary L. Bledsoe joins us to provide perspective. #thestrugglecontinues
Dateline South Africa: We just celebrated the birthday of Nelson Mandela, yet his beloved Rainbow Nation is in turmoil, The Pandemic is wreaking havoc, The former President has just been sent to jail, the people are taking to the streets in violence and looting. And so we reach out to our friend, news anchor @Thami Ngubeni for a view - a perspective of what is happening on the continent.
We sit with renowned promoter turned author Joe Jones to discuss his new book "Tragic Life of a Black LA Cop". While he is currently one of LA's prominent promoters, he was an officer on the LAPD. He saw things, he experienced things and now, he's talking about it. While national dialogue these days often focuses on policing in America, we are always looking for perspectives from those who have worn the badge. This is Joe's Story......
we are turning our lens to the financial well being of the village..... Join us as Dwayne Mooney and Daryl Mooney come thru to chat about our Personal Economy: Entrepreneurship, Investing and Black Wealth..... Crypto Currency, Investing, Entrepreneurship and more!! #letsgo! and be blessed! Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
we're talking Comedy from a black perspective. The legacy. The heritage. And who better to sip coffee with than Michael E Williams - Hall of Fame promoter/producer of comedy and founder of the historic, legendary Comedy Act Theater in Los Angeles where many of your favorite comedy stars got their start. We'll talk about comedy as art.... black comedy history and Michael's upcoming book chronicling his legacy of bringing laughter to the world. This is a historic cultural gem!!!
we have a lot to talk about: Nikole Hannah Jones, dnc'S $25 MIL "I will Vote" Initiative, and a reflection of Haiti in the wake of the assassination of President Jovenal Moise. This intellectual perspectives are shared with Dr. Anthony Samad - Executive Director, Mervyn M Dymally African American Political & Economic Institute at CSUDH and Monique Clesca - Author, Journalist and renowned Advocate for Haiti....
The family of George Floyd and the community at large got closure with the sentencing of Derek Chauvin. 270 months equals 22.5 years in prison. Some say it isnt enough. Others say its a step in the right direction. We talk with our legal friend to gain an understanding of sentencing guidelines and framework as to how we should consider the ramifications of the ruling.
Harry Pace started the first major Black-owned record label in the U.S., but his achievements went mostly unnoticed until recently, when his descendants uncovered his secret history."
A century ago, around the dawn of the Harlem Renaissance, New York City was brimming with music. Black artists like Eubie Blake, Florence Mills and Fats Waller were performing in dance halls and nightclubs including Edmond's Cellar and The Lincoln Theatre.
On the next Coffee Conversations with Greg J, We’re talking to Bill Doggett renowned
Back arts historian about this fascinating story Bill Doggett is one of 4 African American members of The Association For Recorded Sound Collections, an organization compromised of the leading institutions, universities and libraries with notable dedicated Sound and Music Archives such as The Library of Congress, The Smithsonian, Yale, Rutgers, Stanford, UCLA and Manhattan’s Rodgers and Hammerstein Archive.
Doggett’s Early Sound recordings Archive includes many Edison cylinders from the 1890s which were re licensed as flat disc recordings by Columbia and Victor Records. Notably, The Archive includes the only two recordings by the first African American to make a sound recording in 1900, George W Johnson.
These recordings are sampled in live demos in his lectures and multi media presentations played on a 1922 Acoustic Senior table top Victrola. ( a suitcase Victrola)
The story of early American popular music is incomplete without the story of Black Swan Records and Harry Pace - the first record label owned by African Americans. So many artists of the late 1800's and early 1900's were published by this label and the story of Harry Pace is interesting, compelling and full of surprises.
Its a new world in broadcasting. Listeners have many many new choices and certainly are tired of the humdrum that is becoming commercial radio. So how to broadcast professionals handle these new times? We reach over to Johannesburg South Africa to speak with Omar Essack, a renowned and proven Broadcast CEO who has helmed some of South Africa's top media companies. We talk about changing paradigms, advertising strategies and the future as we pivot in a digital world. This is a powerful discussion
This is a great conversation about the financial strategies that will keep you free. Moderated by Karen Clark of City National Bank, this panel consists of Eric Clay from Operation HOPE, Colette Moore of the Small Business of Pacific Coast Regional, Toni Jackson of City National Bank, Mark Morales of City National Bank, Yolandra McClinton of the Neighborhood Housing Service. This will help you!!!
Juneteenth is a day to commemorate freedom. Its customs and traditions are framed with the culinary essence rooted in soul food, bbq, and cajun cuisines. So we linked up with renowned food scholar Adrian Miller, author of "Black Smoke" as he moderates an exceptional panel of the top restaurant owners in the Los Angeles region. Greg Dulan of Dulan's Soul Food, Kim Prince of Hotville Chicken, Desiree Edwards of Watts Coffee House, Norwood Clark of Uncle Darrow's Cajun Cuisine, Kevin Bludso of Bludso's BBQ and Brad Johnson of Post and Beam Hospitality. Also joining us is Gail Jennings of King's Hot Pepper. This is a great conversation about food, culture, the restaurant business and the future,
Thursday, May 27, 9am pacific, join us as we talk about Community Transformation, gentrification, community development in South LA particularly the Crenshaw area.... Community Build, Inc has been at the epicenter of supporting the communities of South Los Angeles. We sip coffee with @Robert Saucedo to learn about this legacy organization and to hear about solutions, situations, alliances as the region transforms in such a time as this.....
Tuesday, May 25 is Africa Day..... Africa Day (formerly African Freedom Day and African Liberation Day) is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963. It is celebrated in various countries on the African continent, as well as around the world. And so we pause to reflect on the Bible. The Word has an essential place in our liberation struggle, yet we grapple with the fact that it was used as a tool to keep us subjugated. On this Africa Day, we seek to overturn the myths, identify the people and correct the perspectives as we search for Africans in the Bible. And so we join with one of our favorite intellectuals, a prolific theologian, an incredible teacher, my friend Elder Oscar Owens, PHD.......
The City of Long Beach has the second largest container port in the United States, a major import location for much of the Western United States. Its esteemed governing board is made up of a diverse group of professionals and policy makers. We're chopping it up with one of the regions most respected politicians, policy makers and community influencers - The Honorable Steven Neal. We're talking about the Harbor Commission, we'll reflect on the Long Beach political landscape from an African American electorate perspective, and we'll contemplate the Long Beach road to recovery
We previously posed the perspective that we are bombarded with images of the British Royals. Even the esteemed broadcaster Gayle King is doing a special on the British Royal Family. We informed black America that the Zulu King had passed. His Queen was elevated to Regent, ruling until the next King would be named. Sadly within the month Her Majesty passed. Upon her passing, her eldest son has been named King and the Zulu nation is making ready for the coronation. Lots to unload and observe in this cultural aspect of African society. We.re catching up with renowned poet, Cultural expert, African healer/spiritualist D. Velaphi Mkhize live from the Umsamo Institute in South Africa...
As the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame announces the induction of Jay-Z, Carole King, Go-Go’s, Tina Turner, Todd Rundgren and Foo Fighters, we are wondering why AFroBeat legend Fela Kuti did not make the cut. It nearly unconscionable that the voting body did not find Fela in this class of honorees. We talk to Sandra Iszadore, singer, confidant, and friend of Fela Kuti in a contemplation of the music industry from a pan african perspective....
We are bombarded with the American obsession with the British Royals. Megan and Harry, the death of Prince Phillip, The Crown on Netflix, Queen Elizabeth and so much more. Yet, In Africa there are many kingdoms... many royal families. Among those is the mighty Kingdom of the Zulus. Did you know the present day King of the Zulus recently passed away? Did you know that his Queen took the throne as regent and within a month of the King's death, she too, passed away? Even as I write this there is a new King, crowned amid much controversy and national dialogue in southern Africa. We turn our eyes to a Royal Family story from an African Perspective - from the Kingdom of the Zulus,and reflect on the death of his King and Queen and the cultural importance of succession. We honor the memory of King Goodwill Zwelithini and Queen Mantfombi Dlamini while discussing the royal succession.....
its no secret that there is a lot going on in the City of Compton - heated mayoral elections, from potholes to policing, the community is raising its voice for change..... we reflect review reminisce and otherwise explore the issues facing the residents of Compton while looking at the future. We are sipping coffee with the Honorable Omar Bradley on Coffee Conversations with Greg J. .... Thursday, May 6.. 9am.... Straight outta Compton: politics, community. transformation?
The pandemic has got some in a pinch.... SOme are unable to pay thier rent. The Consumer Service and Housing Agency of California announced the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program for eligible households and landlords. COVID-19 has exposed the African American community’s long history of housing instability and this program will provide much needed equitable assistance for our most vulnerable California communities that have been impacted. And so we lsit with Some housing professionals as we welcome Geoffrey Ross is Deputy Director of the Division of Financial Assistance – Federal Programs at the California Department of Housing and Community Development, where he has served as Assistant Deputy Director of Financial Assistance since 2020. Ross was Executive Director of the Sonoma County Community Development Commission from 2019 to 2020. He served in several positions at the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency from 2007 to 2018, including Assistant Director of Development and Federal Programs and Redevelopment Manager/Federal Programs Manager. He was an Administrative Analyst II at the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Pittsburg from 2006 to 2007 and was a Community Planning and Development Representative at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development from 2002 to 2006. Ross served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Corporal from 1994 to 1998. He is a member of the California Association of Housing Authorities, National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, National Community Development Association, the American Legion, Urban Land Institute, and the American Planning Association. He earned a Master of Planning degree in urban planning from the University of Southern California.
A native Angeleno, Tunua Thrash-Ntuk is the Executive Director of Los Angeles Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LA LISC). She is a seasoned community and economic development practitioner of more than 15-years with both non-profit and private sector experiences. Her strengths range from community advocacy to asset and real estate development around neighborhood revitalization. She has already led a number of important urban initiatives in Los Angeles focused on affordable housing and commercial development as well as transit-oriented projects. Prior to joining LISC, Tunua served as Executive Director of West Angeles Community Development Corporation, during her tenure she was responsible for the asset management and oversight of the WACDC real estate portfolio valued at $150 million. Tunua led the growth of WACDC’s real estate portfolio, in part by brokering a breakthrough in the development, construction and opening of West Angeles Plaza, a 24,000 square foot commercial office project.
Tunua was named LA's 2021 Impact Makers to Watch by Stratiscope and received the Wells Fargo Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Award by Los Angeles Business Journal. She serves as a board member or advisory board member to many entities
Long Beach is known for its vibrant arts community and beautiful expressions of public art prevalent all over the City. These days, residents are concerned about the defacing of public art murals and as the City begins the march toward economic recovery, arts advocates are busy preaching the sermons of preservation of the arts, particularly public art. It is against this backdrop that we are talking to a panel of arts professionals to examine the struggles facing Public Art in the City of Long Beach. We are talking history and the need for restoration and conservation. Arts is an essential service in our communities. We are joined by @Cynthia Lujan - Public Arts Manager for the Arts Council for Long Beach, @Judy Estrada, Marketing and Grants Manager for the Arts Council for Long Beach, Maureen Neely - research librarian, historian and founder of houstories.net; and @Kim Stock, an arts entrepreneur who developed and promotes a mobile app called Tour LBC - guiding you to some of the most beautiful expressions of public art in the City. Tuesday, May 4 at 9am.. grab your coffee and lets get artiful!!
We hadn't even gotten a verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial when we saw the shooting of Makhia Bryant in Columbus Ohio. Daunte Wright in Brooklyn Center. We see the most recent murder of Andrew Brown in Elizabeth City, NC. But are all of these cases indifferent acts of murder by police? Or are we so traumatized that we are overlooking the split decisions that officers have to make in the situations they are faced with. What are the legal definitions? What will a conviction mean for policing? investigations are flowing but what do the mean? We're talking police reform and the legalities therein with renowned criminal defense attorney Ludlow Creary II.......
MY Friend Pastor Kelvin Sauls brings us two stories from and about South Africa. First we learn about sit-ins by the arts community against the National Arts Council. We're talking to Mzwakhe Mbuli..... Live from Johannesburg. Second, we say the name of Lindani Myeni, a South African who was killed by Honolulu PD.
Mkwakhe Mbuli is a household name in SA He is affectionately called the People's Poet.
The Internationally-acclaimed poet musician is reknown for his uncompromising lyrics.
His music fuel for the feet and food for thought.
Some people call him MZ for his charisma.
Mzwakhe was officially declared "The enemy of the State" 7748.
He was tortured, repeatedly detained.
His albums poetry were Banned by the Apartheid regime.
Mbuli survived several assassination attempts on his life, from bullets to grenades.
After his house was bombed MZ received suprise letters from jailed Nelson Mandela.
Mzwakhe Mbuli is a co-founder of the Sabc Crown Gospel Awards and the Siyabakhumbula Awards.
192 patriots were honored from sports, arts practitioners, comedians, journalism, medical profession.
Mbuli toured extensively abroad with his musical group Europe, USA, Japan, Scandinavian countries.
He performed at the Inauguration of SA's 1st Black President Nelson Mandela.
He staged successful a tribute concert for Mama Afrika Miriam Makeba.
Mbuli initiated an Anti music piracy campaign dubbed Operation Dudula, a Zulu word for eradication.
Mzwakhe is the executive producer of the long overdue JUNE 16 movie, the true story.
Unprecedented Covid 19 affected the process.
MZ is often asked to become the Program Director of prominent citizens.
He has a fully fledged musical band.
He happiest moment is when performing Live on stage.
His latest offering is the new album titled VUKA DARKIE.
"This album of hits is medicine for mental slavery"
"There is no vaccine for Racism" Mbuli exclaimed.
Distinctly African.
VUKA DARKIE!!!!!
This episode finds us chopping it up with LA Gospel Radio icon Aundrae Russell as he celebrates 25 years of as host of "Spread the Word", the Stevie WOnder created radio show heard SUnday's from Noon-6pm on 102.3 Radio Free KJLH. We're reminsicing, analyzing and talking about the importance of black radio in community.
Politics are hotly contested in Compton, California as a special election for Mayor is taking place..... COVID 19 vaccinations are in play, have you got yours? The struggle continues against polic violence in our communities..... the legendary community activist Mollie Bell joins us for conversation and reflection.....
The Derek Chauvin Trial is underway. There are so many emotions in the community.... So many circumstances.... so we join renowned criminal defense attorney Ludlow Creary II to discuss the trial and criminal justice reform...... get your coffee and tap in....
Duane Shepherd is a relative and family spokes person for the descendants of the owners of Bruce Beach. Back in the 1920's it was a popular beach destination for black beach goers but the City of Manhattan Beach took the property from this African American Family so that it could use it expressly for the benefit of its white citizens. Now, the County of Los Angeles is choosing to return the valuable beachfront property back to the descendants. This is incredible news..... and an incredible California story...
The Dodgers brought in Ms. Courtney Moore for the team’s newly created position of vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion. She was most recently the director of diversity and inclusion at the law firm of Munger, Tolles & Olson, where she was responsible for creating and implementing the strategy to enhance the firm’s culture of inclusion. She is a deeply experienced professional in this field and brings her perspectives of promoting diversity in major league baseball..... It's baseball season! Let's check in!!!
We're chatting about the importance of the HBCU, especially at a time such as this. The mechanics of getting your student into the HBCU and how you can directly intersect with an HBCU to enroll..... Dr. Theresa Price is here........ we're talking education on Coffee Conversations with Greg J....
Blending the soul of the neighborhoods of Philadelphia with global rhythms of jazz, hiphop and R&B, Jeff Bradshaw is a force to be reckoned with in the indie soul music scene. He was nominated for an NAACP Image Award this year for his first release since 2015, Stronger"... Jeff describes how racist hackers almost ruined his virtual viewing party...... we're chopping it up about music, awards and longevity..... Jeff Bradshaw..... plus we just might even get an live music fix....
And so our Coffee Conversations with Greg J. resumes with great conversation and observations of Global Pop Culture from a Black Media perspective, We are so honored to chop it up with renowned media personality, Tammi Mac - Afternoon Host at 102.3 RadioFree KJLH in Los Angeles and host of the Tammi Mac Late Show on Fox Soul... (www.foxsoul.net) as we consider pop culture from a black perspective.... Global diasporic media perspective on point at Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
We hear about the science... we hear about the vaccinations, And yet we dont hear anything about natural holstic strategies to keep well in this COVID environment. Dr. Sharita Yazid joins us live from Barbados to talk about healing through herbs and other natural ingredients.
How can music heal and build the community? In this era of recovery, how can the arts be an essential service to community building? We talk to renowned music artist Sheree BRown about her new projects and how they are tied to empowering youth in our community. Music arts, community
It's Women's History Month and continue to share Coffee and Conversation with some of the top women in Broadcasting. All around the world, sistas are influencers in media, leading the way at some of the most consistent radio brands in the world. Invited guests are Karen E. Slade - VP/GM of KJLH Radio, Los Angeles; Wendy Williams - GM at WCLK-FM - Clark Atlanta University/Chairperson, African American Public Radio Consortium, Mutter Evans - Radio Station Owner, Cultural Enthusiast and Thami Ngubeni - leading broadcaster from Johannesburg, South Africa
This is a two part program with the our first discussion about the notion of Sundown Towns as sociologist Dr. James Loewen comes through. He has done extensive studies on the subject and is the author of many books including "Lies My Teacher Told Me".... Then we will hear from Macon , GA as our friend Harold Young the newly appointed Executive Director of the Tubman African American Museum... He is the third Executive Director for the Museum and guess what? He is the first African American appointed to the post. We're talking History and Culture on Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
Black History Month and we are going to take a deeper dive into the Forgotten and hidden history of America. This show will feature two parts. First we will hear from renowned sociologist, historian, author and professor, Dr. #James Loewen as he discusses the notion of Sundown Towns in America. Did you know that the town you live in may have had an ordinance that forbids you from being in that town after the sun goes down? Just base on your race? Did you know that the property you own may have a condition, convenant and restriction for you living in that abode just based on your race? This is American history. It's funny because many areas that are now populated by people of color were, just a generation ago, a Sundown town.
Then we will visit one of the most impressive collections of black American historical artifacts that I have ever seen. @DavidMcLucas and Sheba Gillis come through to show us fascinating historical artifacts and the stories behind them. Class is in session on Coffee Conversations with Greg J.
COVID19 Vaccinations are rolling out.... some folk say areas are underserved, others are skeptical, some say they work, others are looking side eye for side effects. What is the real? Are we safe? Why? What are the disparities in getting the vaccine. We sip coffee and chop it up with my new friend, Dr. Anissa Davis - Health Officer for the City of Long Beach... We are getting the full info so we can decide for ourselves.....
Dr. Anthony Samad is the Executive Director for the Mervyn Dymally African American Political and Economic Institute at California State University at Dominguez Hills ... This discussion is surrounding an interesting event at the University called For White People Only.... It is an compelling analysis of the notion of Racial Reconciliation.... Feature appearances by Dr. Eddie Glaude and Dr. Tim Wise...
We are hearing the Evangelical Christian so much in the political discourse of the day. So we chat with Bishop Carlton Pearson about this phenomenon and explore the differences with white evangelicals and how the present day rhetoric links to the black church cultural narrative. IMportant insight....
In this present day and age, it is time for the Black Church to return to its place in history as a beacon of hope for the oppressed. A center for social justice advocacy all while examining what church looks like Post COVID, Elder Lawrence Blake is the youth Pastor at West Angeles Church of God in Christ and has a unique and powerful perspective of where the Black Church is, and where it is going... fascinating discussion
Today, we chat with Matti Foncah of the African Coffee Trading Company as he chops it up about the current political climate in the west African nation of Cameroon, describes the collaborative of small coffee farmers in the mountains of Cameroon and Global Coffee Culture...
We are so excited to talk to Super Producers Terry Lewis and Jimmy Jam... after decades of making mega hits for the likes of Janet Jackson and so many more. And now, for the first time they are releasing a solo LP with the first single being a nice ballad sung by none other than Babyface.