John Bigham: The Soul Of John Black

The Soul of John Black is a band with a sound every bit as varied as the musical experiences of its leader, John Bigham.

Many people know Bigham from the ska-funk band Fishbone, but he also backed up jazz legend Miles Davis. Tony Cox talks with the musician, who also gives an in-studio performance.

Listen to the full interview here.

Geoffrey Gardner

4:04 PM ET | 03-10-2009 | permalink

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Asa Blends French, Nigerian Musical Influences

Singer/songwriter Asa was born in Paris but spent her childhood and adolescence in Lagos, Nigeria.

She returned to Paris as an adult to test her talent on the French music scene. But it was in Nigeria where Asa first discovered the sounds that would influence the music she creates.

On today's show, Tony Cox spoke with Asa about her burgeoning career, and then she performed her song "Jailer" for us in-studio. Below is a video excerpt of that interview and performance.

Geoffrey Gardner

1:41 PM ET | 02-10-2009 | permalink

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Maiysha Defies Genres With Soulful Debut

Minneapolis-born songbird Maiysha is a true blend of beauty and talent. The graduate of Sarah Lawrence College is a former model and teacher.

Now, Maiysha is a Grammy-nominated artist -- recognized for her single, "Wanna Be." Her debut album, This Much is True, is a genre bender, mixing hip hop rhythms with jazz and funk grooves.

She spoke with host Tony Cox on today's show. Listen to the full interview, and watch her live, in-studio performance of "Wanna Be."

Geoffrey Gardner

5:21 PM ET | 02- 6-2009 | permalink

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Reid & Dreesen: An Odd Couple Of Comedy

In the late 1960s, when assassinations shook this country to the core and race riots engulfed whole neighborhoods, Tim Reid and Tom Dreseen -- one black and the other white -- decided that America was ready for interracial comedy.

But most audiences didn't quite know what to make of them.

On Wednesday's show, Tony Cox spoke with Tim Reid and Tom Dreesen about their new book, which chronicles their partnership: Tim and Tom: An American Comedy in Black and White.

Click here to listen to that interview.

Geoffrey Gardner

3:48 PM ET | 02- 5-2009 | permalink

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Revisiting King's Iconic "I Have A Dream" Speech

As we mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we are revisiting his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered on August 28, 1963 in Washington, D.C.

How are you observing King Day? What does King's message mean to you, on the eve of President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration? Has King's dream been fulfilled?

Geoffrey Gardner

12:10 PM ET | 01-19-2009 | permalink

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Viola Davis Tackles Fear, Shines In 'Doubt'

Tony Award-winning actress Viola Davis has managed to stay out of the Hollywood limelight, despite a consistent acting resume that includes roles in everything from TV shows like Law & Order to films like Antwone Fisher.

Now, a new movie could win her some well-deserved recognition. She plays a key role in the new film, Doubt, based on the Broadway play of the same name. It's a story about recriminations and allegations at an all-white Catholic school in the Bronx during the 1960s.

Geoffrey Gardner

12:31 PM ET | 12-10-2008 | permalink

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Chef Giada De Laurentiis Shares Thanksgiving Favorites

Thanksgiving, of course, is about family, but it's also about the food.

Farai Chideya talked with famed TV chef Giada De Laurentiis, host of Food Network's Everyday Italian and Giada at Home about some of her favorite Thanksgiving recipes and how she manages her busy career.

De Laurentiis' newest cookbook is titled Giada's Kitchen: New Italian Favorites.

What are some of your Turkey Day favorites?

Geoffrey Bennett

1:06 PM ET | 11-25-2008 | permalink

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Singer Nikka Costa Keeps It Funky With 'Pebble To A Pearl'

Before Amy Winehouse, before Duffy there was Nikka Costa. The flame-haired funk singer reemerged on the music scene -- decades after touring the world as a child star -- with the 2001 hit album Everybody Got Their Something.

Now, after switching record labels and having a baby, she's touring again in support of her new CD, Pebble to a Pearl. Costa talks with Farai Chideya about being a new mom and breaking down musical barriers.

Before our interview, Costa performed a few of her newest songs for Morning Becomes Eclectic on NPR member station KCRW. Check it out.

Related Links:
Nikka Costa Offers Soulful Sounds On 'Pearl'
Nikka Costa: Reviving The Sound Of Stax
Nikka Costa's Official Site

Geoffrey Bennett

6:56 PM ET | 11-24-2008 | permalink

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Live From Studio B: Country Star Darius Rucker Performs

Country music has a shining new star: Darius Rucker. He's the former frontman for the 1990s pop group Hootie & the Blowfish. And now, he's the first black artist to have a Top 10 country
hit since Charley Pride.

His debut single, "Don't Think I Don't Think About It," made it all the way to No. 1.

Watch his interview with Farai Chideya, as he talks about crossing over to country music and growing accustomed to being the sole black face in a crowd of thousands.

Now watch as Darius performs three songs from his new CD, Learn To Live.

"All I Want"

"It Won't Be Like This For Long"

"Don't Think I Don't Think About It"

Which song is your favorite?

Geoffrey Bennett

2:08 PM ET | 11-18-2008 | permalink

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Russell Simmons' Global Grind Connects The Hip Hop Generation

Global Grind aspires to be the homepage for the hip-hop generation. GlobalGrind.com is the latest investment by entrepreneur and philanthropist Russell Simmons, chairman of Rush communications.

Farai Chideya speaks with Russell and Global Grind's President and CEO, Navarrow Wright, to talk about presidential politics and the future of social media networking.

Geoffrey Gardner

12:57 PM ET | 11-14-2008 | permalink

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Black, Gay Communities Collide Over Gay Marriage

The controversy over California's gay marriage ban, known as Prop 8, has spilled into the streets.

Protests have snaked their way through Los Angeles and across the country.

But in some places, the fight for gay rights has turned into an public indictment of African-Americans who voted in favor of the ban. Some neighborhoods have become hotbeds for racial tension.

Farai Chideya moderates a conversation about race and sexual identity, the proposition's impact on American politics, and the future of coalition building between blacks and gays.

Click here to listen to the interview, which aired November 13th.

She speaks with Gary Gates, distinguished professor from the Charles R. Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation Law and Public policy at University of California Los Angeles; Patrick Sammon, President of the Log Cabin Republicans; and Ron Buckmire, Board President of the Barbara Jordan/ Bayard Rustin Coalition.

Related NPR Stories:

Calif. Gay-Marriage Backers Go To Court Over Ban

California's Prop. 8 Passes, Passions Flare

Geoffrey Gardner

4:21 PM ET | 11-13-2008 | permalink

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Decision 2008: Obama Now President-Elect (Videoblog)

Blogger Shaun King and NPR's Tony Cox react to Sen. Barack Obama winning the White House.

Geoffrey Bennett

12:58 AM ET | 11- 5-2008 | permalink

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Decision 2008: Down To The Wire (Videoblog)

Political watchers Harry Allen and Edward O. Willis join Farai Chideya, as the latest returns give Sen. Barack Obama an edge in electoral votes.

Geoffrey Bennett

11:34 PM ET | 11- 4-2008 | permalink

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Decision 2008: Reporting From The Precincts (Videoblog)

Farai Chideya speaks with blogger Carmen Dixon and NPR producer Roy Hurst, for the latest, on-the-ground reporting from voting precincts.

Given technical issues with NPR.org, this is coming to you later than we'd hoped. Check back for two more vlog updates, as the returns come in. And if you are having difficulty playing the video above, check us out on YouTube below.

Geoffrey Bennett

8:47 PM ET | 11- 4-2008 | permalink

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Bobbleheads & Bloggers: A Video Retrospective of Election '08

(Updated 11/14/08)

On News & Notes, we've focused on the impact of political imagery -- specifically the iconography surrounding Sen. Barack Obama. Here, producer Roy Hurst, who attended both political conventions this summer, expounds on the issue in word and video:

No candidacy in recent history has inspired more artistic expression than Barack Obama's presidential campaign.

During the 2008 election year, Obama imagery seemed to be everywhere -- on walls, on bumper stickers, on clothing, and on the Internet.

The vastness and variety of Obama paraphernalia has generated untold sums of money and become both a cottage industry and an arts movement. Meanwhile, for better or worse, Barack Obama's image has become an icon.

The creative push of support for Obama has its roots in black culture, in youth culture, and in a general feeling of uncertainty among everyday people about the future of world.

With two wars, a sagging economy, and a deteriorating environment, many Americans yearned for something new in national politics.

Obama spoke directly to that yearning, and has become a symbol it.

It all seemed to start with an image called "HOPE" by guerrilla artist, Shepard Fairey. The image is rendered in red, white and blue, and features the face of Sen. Obama looking upward and outward to the future, above the word "hope."

Earlier in the year, reproductions of the image began to pop up in public spaces across the country. It seemed to be on the vanguard of a wave of artistic political expression that followed.

By contrast, Sen. John McCain's campaign seemed to focus on the imagery of the candidate's past. We saw photos and video footage of "McCain the soldier" and "McCain the POW." With these images, his campaign emphasized the theme of "Country First."

We've compiled a few video examples of election images below. Some are focused directly on the candidates; others are more ambiguous. We've also recorded interviews with an array of artists, vendors, and supporters of the two candidates.

Check out the videos below. Hopefully, they will serve as a small record of this unprecedented season of artistic expression during Election '08.

-- Roy Hurst

"From Hope to Hero" -- Political imagery can take many forms. Guerrilla artist Shepard Fairey, creator of the iconic Obama "HOPE" posters, explains how his work managed to wield major political power.

"For & Against" -- Everyone has an opinion. A street performer, members of a college political group, a black Republican, and a blogger who supports Obama explain the philosophies behind their presidential choices.

"Bobblehead" -- Art intersects with commerce. Performance artists and vendors mix at the site of the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn.

"Action Figure" -- Jason Feinberg, owner of Jailbreak Toys, explains what he's doing at the Democratic National Convention in Denver: "History's happening, and I've got an action figure to sell."

-- Videos Produced by Roy Hurst

Flashback: From Hope to Hero: Political Art In Election 2008

Geoffrey Bennett

5:30 PM ET | 11- 3-2008 | permalink

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Actor Ben Vereen Uses Spotlight For Diabetes Awareness

One day, entertainer Ben Vereen showed up at his doctor's office, seeking treatment for his "adult-onset" diabetes. The next thing they knew, they were on the road together, spreading the word about the importance of early testing.

Vereen and Dr. Michael Bush -- a top diabetes expert and a leading advocate for awareness -- stopped by our studios to speak with Farai about their efforts to inform people about the dangers of Type 2 diabetes. Then, Vereen talked more about his wide-ranging Hollywood career.

Geoffrey Bennett

11:55 AM ET | 10-30-2008 | permalink

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Legendary Soul Stirrers Reunite With New Album

The Soul Stirrers have inspired gospel and R&B audiences for more than eight decades. After a long hiatus, they are back together with a new album, A Soul Stirring Reunion, which combines classics with new upbeat arrangements.

Listen to more of their conversation with Farai, and watch below as four members of the group -- Leroy Crume, Arthur Crume, Willie Rogers and Floyd Taylor -- talk about the differences between religious and secular music.

Geoffrey Bennett

11:29 AM ET | 10-30-2008 | permalink

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From Hope to Hero: Political Art In Election 2008

On yesterday's show, we focused on the impact of political imagery -- specifically the iconography surrounding Sen. Barack Obama. Here, News & Notes producer Roy Hurst, who attended both political conventions this summer, expounds on the issue in word and video:

No candidacy in recent history has inspired more artistic expression than Barack Obama's presidential campaign.

During the 2008 election year, Obama imagery seemed to be everywhere -- on walls, on bumper stickers, on clothing, and on the Internet.

The vastness and variety of Obama paraphernalia has generated untold sums of money and become both a cottage industry and an arts movement. Meanwhile, for better or worse, Barack Obama's image has become an icon.

The creative push of support for Obama has its roots in black culture, in youth culture, and in a general feeling of uncertainty among everyday people about the future of world.

With two wars, a sagging economy, and a deteriorating environment, many Americans yearned for something new in national politics.

Obama spoke directly to that yearning, and has become a symbol it.

It all seemed to start with an image called "HOPE" by guerrilla artist, Shepard Fairey. The image is rendered in red, white and blue, and features the face of Sen. Obama looking upward and outward to the future, above the word "hope."

Earlier in the year, reproductions of the image began to pop up in public spaces across the country. It seemed to be on the vanguard of a wave of artistic political expression that followed.

By contrast, Sen. John McCain's campaign seemed to focus on the imagery of the candidate's past. We saw photos and video footage of "McCain the soldier" and "McCain the POW." With these images, his campaign emphasized the theme of "Country First."

We've compiled a few video examples of election images below. Some are focused directly on the candidates; others are more ambiguous. We've also recorded interviews with an array of artists, vendors, and supporters of the two candidates.

Check out the first video below, as there are more to come. Hopefully, they will serve as a small record of this unprecedented season of artistic expression during Election '08.

-- Video Produced by Roy Hurst

Geoffrey Bennett

5:34 PM ET | 10-29-2008 | permalink

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Known For Urban Art, Justin Bua Tackles Political Imagery

Acclaimed artist Justin Bua made a name for himself with paintings and illustrations, which depict the beauty and struggle of city life.

Bua's work is collected in a book called The Beat of Urban Art. Here, he speaks with Farai about his collection and his foray into political illustration.

Geoffrey Bennett

2:04 PM ET | 10-29-2008 | permalink

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Live From Studio B: Darius Rucker Performs 'It Won't Be Like This For Long'

Newly minted country music star Darius Rucker (former frontman of Hootie & The Blowfish) dropped by our studios yesterday to promote his new album, Learn to Live.

After sitting for an interview with Farai, he performed three songs -- one of which you can check out below. It's his next single titled, "It Won't Be Like This For Long."

The interview and full performance will air on our show -- and be posted here -- very soon.

Geoffrey Bennett

11:57 AM ET | 10-29-2008 | permalink

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Battling Pediatric AIDS, Saving Lives In Africa

Over time, the path of the AIDS pandemic has changed. African women and children are now among the key groups of people living with HIV. But just because a pregnant woman has HIV doesn't mean her baby will, too.

For 20 years, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation has worked to stem the rise of infection among children, and its work in Africa has grown. Today, the foundation supports more than 3,000 clinics in 17 countries, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa.

Pamela Barnes, the organization's president and CEO, recently traveled to South Africa with actress Gloria Reuben, a celebrity ambassador for the group. They share their stories with Farai Chideya. Listen to the interview and watch the video below.

Web Resources:
-- Gloria Reuben Visits Foundation Programs in South Africa

Geoffrey Gardner

12:43 PM ET | 10-21-2008 | permalink

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Singer Dee Dee Bridgewater Tells of Past Racism

Renowned singer Dee Dee Bridgewater recently sat down with NPR's Tony Cox, and opened up about her life and career. Among many topics discussed was Dee Dee's hair -- specifically how the dreadlocks she sported some years ago invited discriminatory remarks and reactions from strangers.

In November, News & Notes will launch a month-long series all about race in America. Please share your own stories and thoughts in the comment section below, and let us know what types of race-related subjects and questions you would like to hear discussed.

The entire interview with Dee Dee Bridgewater will air on News & Notes this Monday, October 20th.

Geoffrey Gardner

6:14 PM ET | 10-17-2008 | permalink

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The Legacy Of Allensworth As Told By A One-Time Resident

In 1908, the town of Allensworth, California became the first town in the state to be founded and funded by African Americans. Ed Pope was a one-time resident of the town and a passionate advocate for its preservation.

Mr. Pope passed away in September. Throughout his life, Mr. Pope worked tirelessly to preserve the town and helped establish the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park in 1974.

His interview was excerpted from, "Land of Promise: The Story of Allensworth," a film produced, directed and written by Pam Harris. Tune into Monday's show for more.

Geoffrey Gardner

1:57 PM ET | 10-10-2008 | permalink

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Donna Brazile Is Fired Up And She's Not Taking It Anymore

Over the weekend Jeffrey Toobin of the New Yorker hosted a panel discussion, featuring insight from political strategists Donna Brazile, Alex Castellanos, Ed Rollins, and Joe Trippi.

In her closing remarks, Brazile hit the refrain "I'm not going to the back of the bus!" when addressing concerns that Obama's race might keep him from winning the presidency.

Watch the clip here and/or read the transcript:

I'm gonna say it and get it off my chest, because for the next thirty days, I'm gonna be the best Catholic woman ever....As a child who grew up in the segregated Deep South, we've come so far in this country....But I remember when I used to get on the bus: my mother would tell me, "Donna, when you get on the bus, you and your brothers go all the way to the back, and don't look at anybody." We have changed. This is a more tolerant, open, progressive society. And yet, we're having this conversation because [Obama] is biracial. He spent nine months in the womb of a white woman. He was raised...by his white grandparents...He got out of school and went to Harvard, and all of a sudden he's "uppity" and there's something wrong with him? What is wrong with us?...You can vote against him, but don't ever put me in the back of the bus. I'm not going to the back of the bus! I'm not going to be afraid! My black skin does not make me inferior! And may I add: being a female does not make me dumb!

Geoffrey Bennett

2:05 PM ET | 10- 7-2008 | permalink

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Rev. Run, Wife Justine Talk Family Values

The 25-and-older crowd knows Reverend Run from the legendary rap group Run-DMC. Those of another generation might be more familiar with him and his wife, Justine, from their MTV's reality show, Run's House.

The couple has written a book together, titled Take Back the Family: A Challenge to America's Parents. In it, they offer advice on parenting, blended families, and the importance of education and family. Both joined NPR's Tony Cox to talk about more about it.

Check out Tony Cox's special post about the words of wisdom Rev. Run shared with News & Notes.

Geoffrey Gardner

1:15 PM ET | 10- 7-2008 | permalink

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Rapper David Banner Shares His Political Perspective

Southern rapper David Banner creates music that plays well on the charts and in the clubs.

But he's also politically active, having testified on Capitol Hill in defense of hip hop.

Banner talks politics with Farai Chideya and offers the latest on his new album, The Greatest Story Ever Told.

Geoffrey Gardner

2:57 PM ET | 10- 6-2008 | permalink

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Comedian Niecy Nash Puts Killer Timing On Display

Actress and comedian Niecy Nash currently stars on two TV shows -- Reno 911!, an improvised, fake reality cop series -- and the home make-over show, Clean House.

But her success didn't come easily. Like many comedians -- her sense of humor was birthed from tragedy.

Nash talks with NPR's Tony Cox about her rising career and where she finds her comedic inspiration.

Geoffrey Gardner

11:43 AM ET | 10- 2-2008 | permalink

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Singer Evans Keeps Her Faith Alive

At the age 35, R&B singer Faith Evans been through more than most folks will in their entire lives. By the age of four, she found her first adoring audience -- in her church. By 15, she was sneaking away from home to learn how to record and mix music.

Three years after that, Faith was a college dropout, a songwriter, a single mother and the survivor of a brutal and abusive relationship.

By 24, she was a successful singer and a widow. Faith Evans is telling all in her memoir, Keep The Faith, starting with the death of her estranged husband, rapper The Notorious B.I.G.

In part one, Faith discusses the loss of her famous husband and how she survived and grew through the pain of that ordeal.

In the second part of our interview with Faith Evans, the singer discusses her violent past and peaceful present as a wife and mother of four children.

Notorious, the biographical film which details the life of Biggie Smalls, opens in January 2009.

Faith Evans' autobiography, Keep the Faith, is available in bookstores everywhere. Will you be picking up a copy?

Geoffrey Gardner

12:20 PM ET | 09-30-2008 | permalink

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Rapper David Banner Has A Question For You

We had hip hop star and outspoken activist David Banner in the studio today, and he didn't hold back any of his opinions. The whole revealing interview will air at a later date, but for now we'd like to present a short segment for your consideration.

With the presidential election right around the corner, how do you feel about our democratic process? Is the Electoral College an outdated means of representation?

Join the conversation -- and the NPR community -- by registering here. We can't wait to hear your opinions!

Geoffrey Gardner

6:30 PM ET | 09-29-2008 | permalink

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Spike Lee Talks 'Miracle At St. Anna' And Presidential Politics

Filmmaker Spike Lee's latest movie, Miracle at St. Anna, chronicles the lives of four members of the all-black Buffalo Soldiers Division, who are trapped behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied Italy during World War II.

NPR's Karen Grigsby Bates recently sat down with Lee, who talks about the film's importance and his support of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Related: 'Miracle at St. Anna' Writer, Cast Share War Stories (Video)

Geoffrey Bennett

5:18 PM ET | 09-29-2008 | permalink

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'Miracle at St. Anna' Writer, Cast Share War Stories

Spike Lee's latest movie, Miracle at St. Anna, is about the sometimes forgotten contribution of African-American soldiers during World War II. It's based on James McBride's novel of the same name.

While battling racism from the U.S. military and attacks from the Nazis, one of the soldiers in the all-black Buffalo Soldiers Division risks his life to save a young Italian boy.

Farai Chideya sits down with three stars of the film -- Derek Luke, Laz Alonso and Omar Benson Miller -- as well as writer James McBride.

In part one of the extended video interview, each actor opens up about the personal journey they took with their characters, and what they brought away from that experience. They also don't hold back while dishing about what it's like working with master auteur Spike Lee (who will be on Monday's show).

In part two of the interview, Farai asks how ethnicity and race play a significant role in Miracle at St. Anna. We also learn that Derek Luke wants to blow things up as an action star and Omar Benson Miller's life has come full circle, thanks to NPR.

Are you planning on seeing this movie over the weekend? Feel free to submit your own review below.

Related Link: Official Miracle at St. Anna Website

Geoffrey Gardner

12:13 PM ET | 09-26-2008 | permalink

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Singer Eric Benet Talks 'Love & Life'

After a four-year hiatus, R&B singer Eric Benet is back with his new album, titled Love & Life.

Farai Chideya sits down with Benet to talk about getting back in the recording studio, being a single father, and his estrangement from actress Halle Berry.

Geoffrey Gardner

12:06 PM ET | 09-23-2008 | permalink

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Roundtable: Palin's Diversity Report Card

How does Sarah Palin stack up on diversity in her own state?

Plus, do ex-cons deserve a place at the polls?

Check out the two-part bloggers' roundtable below, recorded live in our studio at NPR West.

Joining in this edition of blogger's roundtable are Carmen Dixon of All About Race, Kevin Ross of Three Brothers and a Sister, and Marc Lamont Hill.

Geoffrey Gardner

12:37 PM ET | 09-18-2008 | permalink

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A Hillary Clinton Supporter To The End ...

If you watched CNN's DNC coverage last night ... then you, no doubt, know all about Clinton supporter and DNC delegate Anne Price-Mills. Here's a reprise:

What say you?

Geoffrey Bennett

12:45 PM ET | 08-27-2008 | permalink

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Actor Glynn Turman 'Excited' Over First Emmy Nom

You may remember him as Ben Pettit in Fame, Col. Bradford Taylor on A Different World, or Leroy "Preach" Jackson in Cooley High. Actor Glynn Turman -- whose acting career spans nearly 40 years -- finally scored his first Emmy nomination for his work in the HBO drama In Treatment.

Here, he talks with NPR's Tony Cox. The full interview will air later on our show.

Geoffrey Bennett

11:24 AM ET | 08-27-2008 | permalink

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Barack Obama's Cuban Look-Alike Hits Denver

One man is making a splash in Denver this week, but his name isn't Barack Obama -- he just happens to look like the Senator.

Gerardo Passiaux is an impersonator from Guantanamo, Cuba, and says he supports the real Obama. We would definitely do a double-take if we saw him strolling the streets of the Mile High City. Thanks to Black Voices for locating this video.

More DNC Coverage:
What Did You Think of Hillary's Speech?
Rate Michelle Obama's Opening Night Speech

Geoffrey Gardner

10:52 AM ET | 08-27-2008 | permalink

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Today: Jennifer Hudson; Yesterday: Jennifer Holliday

Barack Obama has asked Jennifer Hudson to sing the National Anthem Thursday night in Denver when he formally accepts the party's nomination.

It reminds us of that other Jennifer who once sang -- saaaang, to be exact -- in front of the DNC:

Geoffrey Bennett

7:13 PM ET | 08-25-2008 | permalink

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Lifestyles & Trends: LisaRaye Fights Back

Actress LisaRaye has released photos to Essence magazine of what she says is domestic abuse.

Plus, there's going to be a whole lot of Hollywood in Denver next week; the stars are heading to the Democratic National Convention.

For more, Farai Chideya speaks with Newsweek magazine national correspondent Allison Samuels.

Related Video:
Lifestyles & Trends: Wendy Williams' Catfight
Chante Moore: P. Diddy Stole My Hit Song for J.Lo

Never miss a new video: Subscribe to the News & Notes YouTube channel today!

Geoffrey Gardner

7:00 PM ET | 08-22-2008 | permalink

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New HUD Chief Takes On U.S. Mortgage Crisis

Sales of existing houses have skidded to a 10-year low, and families are still losing the homes they once owned.

In response, President Bush recently signed the multi-billion-dollar Housing and Economic Recovery Act.

Plus, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, is working on specific programs as part of a bigger push to ease the housing crisis.

For more, Farai Chideya speaks with HUD Secretary Steve Preston.

Related NPR Stories: New Bill Signals Relief for Homeowners

Geoffrey Gardner

3:19 PM ET | 08-18-2008 | permalink

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Kirk Douglas, 91, Fighting Online For Slavery Apology

Late last month, the House of Representatives passed a resolution apologizing for American slavery and segregation. The bill had been in the works for over a year, and it was helped along by enthusiastic support from a surprising ally -- none other than 91-year-old actor/producer Kirk Douglas.

Douglas invited Tony Cox, producer Roy Hurst, and me to his Beverly Hills home for an interview about the movement he is organizing online, via his MySpace page.

During our half hour with him, we found Douglass to be immensely personable ... every bit the major star he once was. His slurred speech -- the result of a 1996 stroke -- belied his sharp, quick wit. He spoke at length about his philanthropic work, his role in breaking the McCarthy-era Hollywood blacklist, and he shared insight on growing older.

Watch this conversation between Tony and Kirk Douglas (subtitling included), and be sure to share your thoughts below.

(This interview was recorded separately for our radio broadcast, which explains the boom mic you may see dipping in the shot at times.)

Related: Government Apologizes For Slavery, Jim Crow

Geoffrey Bennett

11:35 AM ET | 08-15-2008 | permalink

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TV Producer Larry Wilmore Remembers Bernie Mac

Comedian Bernie Mac died this past Saturday morning in Chicago after losing a battle with pneumonia. He was 50 years old.

Farai Chideya talks with comedian and TV producer Larry Wilmore, who was the creator and executive producer of The Bernie Mac Show, about the funny man's life and career.

In Memoriam: Bernie Mac

Geoffrey Gardner

1:50 PM ET | 08-13-2008 | permalink

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Inside the Art of Scoring Hollywood Films

What would the movie Jaws be without that deep bass refrain?

Memorable films are often propelled by an inspired musical score.

ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) runs a summer boot camp for hopeful composers. The annual film scoring workshop puts a dozen applicants -- from among hundreds -- on a soundstage with a live orchestra to make move magic.

For more, Michael Bearden shares his story with NPR's Tony Cox. Take a look.

Bearden is an alumnus of the ASCAP film composing workshop, who has scored major movies and served as musical director for stars like Whitney Houston and Madonna.

Geoffrey Gardner

6:32 PM ET | 08- 8-2008 | permalink

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Lifestyles & Trends: Wendy Williams' Catfight

Farai Chideya talks with Newsweek correspondent Allison Samuels about the new pro-Obama Ludacris track, Halle Berry's paparazzi woes, and a fiery exchange between reality show villain Omarosa and new TV talk show host Wendy Williams.

On the Show: Ludacris Blasts Obama Rivals in New Song
More: Jill Scott to Wed Drummer | Encounters on BET Red Carpet

Geoffrey Gardner

11:35 AM ET | 08- 4-2008 | permalink

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Calif. Assembly Speaker Karen Bass On Life, Career

Grassroots activism has made a big difference in the life of Karen Bass. In the 1990s, Bass was a working single mom, trying to get control of her crack-ridden South Los Angeles neighborhood.

She founded a group called the Community Coalition; it propelled her to the California State Assembly in 2005.

Last May, Bass became the first black woman to be named assembly speaker.

She talks with Farai Chideya about her rising profile and her new level of responsibility.

Geoffrey Gardner

7:33 PM ET | 07-29-2008 | permalink

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Dr. Dre's Mom Tells Of 'Long Road Outta Compton'

You may not know who Verna Griffin is. But you probably know her son -- rapper and music producer, Andre "Dr. Dre" Young.

She talks with Farai Chideya about her new memoir, Long Road Outta Compton, which details her turbulent childhood, failed marriages and her son's rise to fame.

You can listen to the entire interview here.

Geoffrey Gardner

2:56 PM ET | 07-21-2008 | permalink

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Chante Moore: P. Diddy Stole My Hit Song for J.Lo

With hits like "Chante's Got A Man," "Straight Up," and "Love's Taken Over," singer Chante Moore -- who has been on the R&B scene for over a decade -- could have had another: "If You Had My Love," as performed by Jennifer Lopez. (Moore's is called "If I Gave Love.")

Moore sat down with NPR's Tony Cox and explained how P. Diddy laid claim to a song she recorded, and had producer Rodney Jerkins write a similar version for Lopez.

The two also talk about the ups and downs of Moore's career, the trials of her teenage years, and her first solo album in eight years. It's titled, Love the Woman.

Take a look:

(We reached out to reps for both Sean "P. Diddy" Combs and Jennifer Lopez for comments. Neither responded by press time. We'll update as necessary.)

Geoffrey Bennett

11:36 AM ET | 07-18-2008 | permalink

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Super Bowl Champ Tells of Troubles & Triumphs

New York Giants star receiver (and ESPY Award winner) David Tyree visited the NPR West studios this week, and sat down for an interview with our very own Tony Cox.

The pair spoke at length about his miracle Super Bowl catch, but also delved into the more serious subject of Tyree's past -- which includes an arrest for selling marijuana -- and his subsequent spiritual rebirth, which has carried him all the way to the top.

You can listen to the entire interview here.

Geoffrey Gardner

5:33 PM ET | 07-17-2008 | permalink

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Barack Obama Addresses the NAACP

Last night, Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama addressed the 99th annual NAACP convention. He made history, as the first African-American candidate of a major party to speak in front of the nation's oldest civil rights organization.

Today on the show, Farai spoke with NAACP Chairman Julian Bond about Obama's significant speech:

On Wednesday, John McCain is scheduled to speak before the NAACP. What should he say?

Geoffrey Gardner

12:09 PM ET | 07-15-2008 | permalink

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Blog Beat: The 'Star Spangled Banner' Goes Black

On the Show: Black National Anthem Sparks Debate Online

Geoffrey Bennett

8:20 PM ET | 07- 9-2008 | permalink

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Road Trippin': Perspectives at the Pump

This week, News & Notes is kicking off a special series focused on the causes and impact of rising gas prices.

Californians, in particular, are accustomed to paying more at the pump, as state-wide pollution standards drive the price up. But with the national average already more than $4 per gallon, how are people coping with the financial squeeze?

For a firsthand perspective, we spoke with drivers at a gas station near our studios here at NPR West. Take a look:

As Heard on the Show: Road Trippin': Perspectives at the Pump

Geoffrey Bennett

3:51 PM ET | 06-30-2008 | permalink

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Lifestyles & Trends: Jill Scott to Wed Her Drummer

On the Show: Singer Jill Scott to Walk Down the Aisle Again
More: Celebrity Encounters on the BET Red Carpet

Geoffrey Bennett

6:18 PM ET | 06-27-2008 | permalink

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Celebrity Encounters on the BET Red Carpet

The 2008 BET Awards kicked off with a pre-ceremony soiree earlier this week in downtown Los Angeles. News & Notes was there -- camera in tow. Watch as Niecy Nash explains why she always rocks a flower in her hair ... Jill Scott schools us in the ways of traditional African greetings ... Malcolm-Jamal Warner tells us what he's been up to ... and Robert Townsend leaves us hangin'.

We've also got chats with Terry Crews and his wife, Rebecca; Bobby Jones, CNN's Jamal Simmons, Jimmy Jean-Louis of NBC's Heroes, singer Janelle Monae, Rodney and Holly Robinson Peete, Soulja Boy, Ashanti, David Banner, and Nelly.

On the Show: Live from BET's Red Carpet

Geoffrey Bennett

8:24 PM ET | 06-26-2008 | permalink

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Lifestyles & Trends: 50 Cent Denies Arson Claim

On the Show: Did 50 Cent Burn His House Down?
More Video: BlogBeat: Obama's Pep Talk Goes Viral

Geoffrey Gardner

11:19 AM ET | 06-16-2008 | permalink

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Blog Beat: Obama's Pep Talk Goes Viral

On the Show: Obama's Pep Talk Goes Viral on the Web
Video: Lifestyles & Trends: Oprah's Got an Obama Problem?

Geoffrey Bennett

5:39 PM ET | 06-11-2008 | permalink

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Obama: Reactions Heard 'Round the World

Reactions, suggestions, and all-around cheer are pouring in following Barack Obama's presumptive Democratic nomination. The following videos are courtesy of CNN.

Billionaire BET founder Bob Johnson is urging Obama to pick Hillary Clinton as his VP.

While Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice heralded Obama's historic nomination.

Half-way around the world, Kenyan citizens were overjoyed at the news. Wish we were there!

What is your reaction to Barack Obama's nomination?

Geoffrey Gardner

6:55 PM ET | 06- 4-2008 | permalink

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Lifestyles & Trends: Oprah's Got an Obama Problem?

We're adding another dimension to News & Notes -- video.

More video features are coming soon ... but to begin, we'll be posting highlights and extra Hollywood dish from our entertainment contributor, Newsweek national correspondent Allison Samuels.

Here's a recent segment:

On the Show: Oprah May Be Paying a Price for Obama Support

Geoffrey Bennett

2:19 PM ET | 06- 3-2008 | permalink

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