As New Yorkers continue to celebrate the resolution to their Wedding Bell Blues, the Pride and Soul blog wishes to recognize The 5th Dimension's Billy Davis Jr & his wife of 42 years Marilyn McCoo. They married on June 26, 1969 and Billy Davis Jr's birthday is June 26, 1938. So Happy Anniversary and Happy Birthday to Mr. Billy Davis!
"Wedding Bell Blues" by The 5th Dimension
Song was written by the late Laura Nyro, here is her version.
"You Don't Have To Be A Star (to be in my show)"
"Shine On Silver Moon"
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
New York makes 6 for Marriage Equality!
Congratulations to the state of New York, the 6th state in the United States to legalize same sex marriage. The Republican led State Senate passed the marriage bill by a vote of 33-29. Already passed by the state assembly, MARRIAGE EQUALITY will officially take effect 30 days after New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signs the bill into law.
New York also makes history as it is one of the rare cases where marriage equality was achieved by legislative action and not by judicial action. Also there are no residency restrictions for getting married in New York state so while your marriage may not be recognized in Georgia where this blog is based, I forsee many Gay couples vacationing in New York where they can have a fabulous ballroom style wedding.
Again, congratulations to the state of New York for doing the right and fair thing.
And now some music.
"Chapel Of Love" by The Dixie Cups
"Lets Get Married" by Al Green
"Won't Cha' Stay With Me" by L.T.D. (Jeffrey Osborne on vocals)
This is a great wedding song. Listen and enjoy.
"New York State Of Mind" by Billy Joel
"Native New Yorker" by Odyssey
And the song so many have posted almost immediately after the vote
"New York New York"
Now go ahead, book those ballrooms and register at those posh 5th Avenue stores. Marriage Equality has come to the Empire State.
New York also makes history as it is one of the rare cases where marriage equality was achieved by legislative action and not by judicial action. Also there are no residency restrictions for getting married in New York state so while your marriage may not be recognized in Georgia where this blog is based, I forsee many Gay couples vacationing in New York where they can have a fabulous ballroom style wedding.
Again, congratulations to the state of New York for doing the right and fair thing.
And now some music.
"Chapel Of Love" by The Dixie Cups
"Lets Get Married" by Al Green
"Won't Cha' Stay With Me" by L.T.D. (Jeffrey Osborne on vocals)
This is a great wedding song. Listen and enjoy.
"New York State Of Mind" by Billy Joel
"Native New Yorker" by Odyssey
And the song so many have posted almost immediately after the vote
"New York New York"
Now go ahead, book those ballrooms and register at those posh 5th Avenue stores. Marriage Equality has come to the Empire State.
I am What I am...Disco Saturday on a NY Marriage Equality Super Pride Weekend.
The last weekend of June in the Gay, Lesbian,Bisexual and Transgender community is the traditional Gay Pride weekend. Some refer to this weekend as "Super Pride" as this is the weekend of the largest Gay Pride celebrations around the United States.
We celebrate pride weekend with an old school DISCO SATURDAY of Gay and lesbian performers, Gay icons and favorite Divas. There is only so much room. Too many songs make for a difficult page for some to load. So here I just make some random selections and wish everyone a HAPPY PRIDE.
If you are near a satellite radio, this would be a great weekend to listen to SiriusXM OutQ during your travels, especially "Feel The Spin" hosted by Larry Flick.
Here are some dance classics and anthems. Enjoy
"I Am What I am" by Gloria Gaynor No explaination needed. Just listen.
SYLVESTER: Openly gay, highly revered and still loved although lost more than two decades ago.
"You Make Me Feel Mighty Real"
"Don't Stop" by Sylvester
DAN HARTMAN "Vertigo/Relight My Fire"
CHER was already Gay Icon who today has a Transgendered Son. Chazz Bono was born Chasity and came out as a lesbian in the 1990's and and while you don't see Cher marching in parades or performing at pride festivals, her LGBT fans worship her as an icon.
"Take Me Home"
(and because so many gays love this song while this blogger does not...)
"Believe"
Its hard to choose for Disco Saturday sometimes. So how about this departure. Something new, something recent. The current LGBT anthem "BORN THIS WAY" because we are born this way. Just as Gloria Gaynor sang "I am What I am". Thanks Lady Gaga!
Back to the old school. This is definitely a traditional song for Gay Pride. As it is the time when most of us come out and let the whole world know. So here is Miss Ross....Diana Ross
"I'm Coming Out" by Diana Ross
Its a very busy weekend for this blogger who will be with Sean's Last Wish at Augusta Pride in Augusta Georgia. Last year, the headline entertainment at Augusta Pride was Thelma Houston and Frenchie Davis.
Added after original post!> Late on Friday night June 24th the state of New York became the 6th state in the United States to make same-sex marriage legal. This makes this weekend's Gay Pride Celebration even more meaningful as the entire movement began in New York in 1969 as people began standing up and fighting for their rights. And people have fought long and hard for the rights they achieved today. Congratulations New York.
Let's Celebrate!
MADONNA!
"Lets Celebrate" by Skyy
And all weekend gay couples are dancing in the streets celebrating their victory in the state capital.
Martha and The Vandellas
and I say...Keep on Dancing!
Gary's Gang (had to bring some Disco back to "Disco Saturday"
Yowza yowza yowza! Dance Dance Dance down the asile Bride and bride, Groom and Groom
"Everybody Dance" By Chic
And finally, after gay and lesbian couples get married in New York and the other states that allow it....LET NO MAN PUT YOU UNDER! The final songs for "Disco Saturday" this weekend brings it back to Philly as always with First Choice featuring the lead vocals of Rochelle Fleming who by the way has performed at pride festivals. I'm sure she is celebrating the victory in New York along with us.
"Let No Man Put Asunder"
"Love Thang"
Happy Pride! IN New York and beyond.
We celebrate pride weekend with an old school DISCO SATURDAY of Gay and lesbian performers, Gay icons and favorite Divas. There is only so much room. Too many songs make for a difficult page for some to load. So here I just make some random selections and wish everyone a HAPPY PRIDE.
If you are near a satellite radio, this would be a great weekend to listen to SiriusXM OutQ during your travels, especially "Feel The Spin" hosted by Larry Flick.
Here are some dance classics and anthems. Enjoy
"I Am What I am" by Gloria Gaynor No explaination needed. Just listen.
SYLVESTER: Openly gay, highly revered and still loved although lost more than two decades ago.
"You Make Me Feel Mighty Real"
"Don't Stop" by Sylvester
DAN HARTMAN "Vertigo/Relight My Fire"
CHER was already Gay Icon who today has a Transgendered Son. Chazz Bono was born Chasity and came out as a lesbian in the 1990's and and while you don't see Cher marching in parades or performing at pride festivals, her LGBT fans worship her as an icon.
"Take Me Home"
(and because so many gays love this song while this blogger does not...)
"Believe"
Its hard to choose for Disco Saturday sometimes. So how about this departure. Something new, something recent. The current LGBT anthem "BORN THIS WAY" because we are born this way. Just as Gloria Gaynor sang "I am What I am". Thanks Lady Gaga!
Back to the old school. This is definitely a traditional song for Gay Pride. As it is the time when most of us come out and let the whole world know. So here is Miss Ross....Diana Ross
"I'm Coming Out" by Diana Ross
Its a very busy weekend for this blogger who will be with Sean's Last Wish at Augusta Pride in Augusta Georgia. Last year, the headline entertainment at Augusta Pride was Thelma Houston and Frenchie Davis.
Added after original post!> Late on Friday night June 24th the state of New York became the 6th state in the United States to make same-sex marriage legal. This makes this weekend's Gay Pride Celebration even more meaningful as the entire movement began in New York in 1969 as people began standing up and fighting for their rights. And people have fought long and hard for the rights they achieved today. Congratulations New York.
Let's Celebrate!
MADONNA!
"Lets Celebrate" by Skyy
And all weekend gay couples are dancing in the streets celebrating their victory in the state capital.
Martha and The Vandellas
and I say...Keep on Dancing!
Gary's Gang (had to bring some Disco back to "Disco Saturday"
Yowza yowza yowza! Dance Dance Dance down the asile Bride and bride, Groom and Groom
"Everybody Dance" By Chic
And finally, after gay and lesbian couples get married in New York and the other states that allow it....LET NO MAN PUT YOU UNDER! The final songs for "Disco Saturday" this weekend brings it back to Philly as always with First Choice featuring the lead vocals of Rochelle Fleming who by the way has performed at pride festivals. I'm sure she is celebrating the victory in New York along with us.
"Let No Man Put Asunder"
"Love Thang"
Happy Pride! IN New York and beyond.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Ron Paul & Barney Frank's Joint Venture
An unlikely pair? Ron Paul and Barney Frank.
From GPB News-Reps. Ron Paul (R-TX) and Barney Frank (D-MA) are set to introduce a bipartisan bill today that would remove the federal prohibition on marijuana. The bill would instead let states legalize, regulate and tax marijuana.
The bill is co-sponsored by Reps. John Conyers (D-MI), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jared Polis (D-CO), and Barbara Lee (D-CA).
If Rick James were still alive I think he'd agree.
"Pass The J" From 1981's "Street Songs"
"Mary Jane"
From GPB News-Reps. Ron Paul (R-TX) and Barney Frank (D-MA) are set to introduce a bipartisan bill today that would remove the federal prohibition on marijuana. The bill would instead let states legalize, regulate and tax marijuana.
The bill is co-sponsored by Reps. John Conyers (D-MI), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jared Polis (D-CO), and Barbara Lee (D-CA).
If Rick James were still alive I think he'd agree.
"Pass The J" From 1981's "Street Songs"
"Mary Jane"
Waiting and waiting for Marriage Equality in New York
The state assembly in New York passed a bill that could legalize marriages for same-sex couples. And for a couple weeks the people of New York have been waiting on their state senate to vote on the bill.
NEWS ARTICLE FROM New York "Gay City News"
There have been negotiations with state senators to secure votes before bringing it to the floor. News would come out that they had enough votes and would possibly vote on one day and it gets delayed day after day. Supporters of marriage equality in New York have been on pins and needles waiting for New York to join 5 other states in offering fairness and equality in Marriage.
New York State, your tax paying same-sex couples are waiting for you to make things equal. Stop the delays! Make marriage equality a reality in New York.
Click on THIS LINK for more information on contacting the NYS senate asking them to bring it to a vote. (6/23)
The music for this article is "Waiting" by Deniece Williams
As the people of New York continue to wait and anticipate marriage equality in New York State.
NEWS ARTICLE FROM New York "Gay City News"
There have been negotiations with state senators to secure votes before bringing it to the floor. News would come out that they had enough votes and would possibly vote on one day and it gets delayed day after day. Supporters of marriage equality in New York have been on pins and needles waiting for New York to join 5 other states in offering fairness and equality in Marriage.
New York State, your tax paying same-sex couples are waiting for you to make things equal. Stop the delays! Make marriage equality a reality in New York.
Click on THIS LINK for more information on contacting the NYS senate asking them to bring it to a vote. (6/23)
The music for this article is "Waiting" by Deniece Williams
As the people of New York continue to wait and anticipate marriage equality in New York State.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
250th blog post: About my 1500th tweet
Two milestones are reached on the same day. For this blog which originally started at "The E Blog" then briefly last year was renamed the "Rainbow Soul Journal" and today is known as "Pride And Soul" reaches 250 blog posts with THIS edition. That number doesn't include the frequently blogging I did on MySpace during it's heyday. In fact, it was during my time blogging on MySpace that I neglected THIS blog which was established first.
The other milestone reached today is for my Twitter account. I will make posting a link to THIS blog entry the 1,500th "Tweet". If you came to this blog from that link on twitter then I thank you for being a follower of mine on Twitter. Much appreciated.
In honor of my 1,500th tweet I decided to find the 15 best tweets and place them here on the blog. There is no specific order within the fifteen best. They are random selections.
1. May 16, 2011
In the News, #DonaldTrump says he won't run for #POTUS2012 . In related news....shit still stinks! #theDonald #LGBT #theApprentice #trump
2. May 2, 2011
Bin Laden's death was really Obama's code for "Kiss my ASS Donald Trump..I got this!" @nikkiwoods @KeithOlbermann #osama #teaparty #gop
3. April 17, 2011
When life gives you lemons, make some sweet ice tea and have a drink. (then throw the used lemons at the people who piss you off)
4. April 8, 2011
If you don't stand up for your opinions, the opinions are impotent. If U can't stand to face other's opinions, YOU are impotent in the mind.
5. March 25, 2011
Irony: #RonaldReagan busts air traffic control union in 1981 and the lone air traffic controller at his namesake airport falls asleep on the job.
6. February 28, 2011
While most were watching the #Oscars I found a much more entertaining program. I watched "the back of my eyelids" for about 9 hours!
7. November 16, 2010
I don't care about a British couple getting married when I am forbidden to marry in 45 United States. #DOMA #KateMiddleton
8. November 17, 2010
I lost twitter followers after saying I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE FUTURE ROYAL WEDDING BC I (LGBT) cannot get married in the US! Buh Bye!
9. October 10, 2011 (tweeted from Atlanta Pride festival)
Note to Atlanta Pride. The karaoke stage is a BAD idea! Had to endure the sounds of strangling cats posing as singers all day.
10. August 6, 2010
Teenage crush rekindled after hearing Glenn Scarpelli on Frank DeCaro show. GAWD he still sounds adorable.
11. August 3, 2010
I just found out that one person finds my "incessant posting" was a reason he smashed his blackberry. Not my problem! He can delete me!
12. February 12, 2010
Regis and Joy Phlbin, married 40 years and singing together on national television. They say love is blind. In this case its also tone deaf.
13.September 18, 2009
Dentists should be imported to Crawford county Georgia..like weeds 2 a gardener they'll have plenty of customers
14.June 25, 2009 (While on road trip from Georgia to New York)
Ok rest room stall doors in Maryland are very short. enough to see the face of the person sitting down! Was this inspired by Larry Craig?
15. March 9, 2009
I'm sorry! I don't have time for this twitter stuff. I forgot I even had this account. But like most things, this addiction may claim me!
And, yes the addiction to Twitter did claim me. 1500 tweets, over 100 followers for no good reason and I follow some of the greatest people online. I spend a lot of time reading THEIR tweets and the links they often post within.
And so this is the 250Th blog post which is about my 1500 tweets.
And if you wish to follow me on Twitter (Don't know why but thank you ) you can find me at www.twitter.com/edricfloyd
The other milestone reached today is for my Twitter account. I will make posting a link to THIS blog entry the 1,500th "Tweet". If you came to this blog from that link on twitter then I thank you for being a follower of mine on Twitter. Much appreciated.
In honor of my 1,500th tweet I decided to find the 15 best tweets and place them here on the blog. There is no specific order within the fifteen best. They are random selections.
1. May 16, 2011
In the News, #DonaldTrump says he won't run for #POTUS2012 . In related news....shit still stinks! #theDonald #LGBT #theApprentice #trump
2. May 2, 2011
Bin Laden's death was really Obama's code for "Kiss my ASS Donald Trump..I got this!" @nikkiwoods @KeithOlbermann #osama #teaparty #gop
3. April 17, 2011
When life gives you lemons, make some sweet ice tea and have a drink. (then throw the used lemons at the people who piss you off)
4. April 8, 2011
If you don't stand up for your opinions, the opinions are impotent. If U can't stand to face other's opinions, YOU are impotent in the mind.
5. March 25, 2011
Irony: #RonaldReagan busts air traffic control union in 1981 and the lone air traffic controller at his namesake airport falls asleep on the job.
6. February 28, 2011
While most were watching the #Oscars I found a much more entertaining program. I watched "the back of my eyelids" for about 9 hours!
7. November 16, 2010
I don't care about a British couple getting married when I am forbidden to marry in 45 United States. #DOMA #KateMiddleton
8. November 17, 2010
I lost twitter followers after saying I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE FUTURE ROYAL WEDDING BC I (LGBT) cannot get married in the US! Buh Bye!
9. October 10, 2011 (tweeted from Atlanta Pride festival)
Note to Atlanta Pride. The karaoke stage is a BAD idea! Had to endure the sounds of strangling cats posing as singers all day.
10. August 6, 2010
Teenage crush rekindled after hearing Glenn Scarpelli on Frank DeCaro show. GAWD he still sounds adorable.
11. August 3, 2010
I just found out that one person finds my "incessant posting" was a reason he smashed his blackberry. Not my problem! He can delete me!
12. February 12, 2010
Regis and Joy Phlbin, married 40 years and singing together on national television. They say love is blind. In this case its also tone deaf.
13.September 18, 2009
Dentists should be imported to Crawford county Georgia..like weeds 2 a gardener they'll have plenty of customers
14.June 25, 2009 (While on road trip from Georgia to New York)
Ok rest room stall doors in Maryland are very short. enough to see the face of the person sitting down! Was this inspired by Larry Craig?
15. March 9, 2009
I'm sorry! I don't have time for this twitter stuff. I forgot I even had this account. But like most things, this addiction may claim me!
And, yes the addiction to Twitter did claim me. 1500 tweets, over 100 followers for no good reason and I follow some of the greatest people online. I spend a lot of time reading THEIR tweets and the links they often post within.
And so this is the 250Th blog post which is about my 1500 tweets.
And if you wish to follow me on Twitter (Don't know why but thank you ) you can find me at www.twitter.com/edricfloyd
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Tracy Morgan apologizes in Nashville
Actor and comedian Tracy Morgan found himself in deep trouble over hateful and disgusting comments he made in his stand-up comedy show held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville in early June. In his show he mentioned that if he were to have a gay son he would have stabbed the child. When a gay audience member posted on his Facebook about it sparked universal outrage.
The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) got involved and there were calls for Tracy Morgan to apologize for his remarks. Tracy Morgan has spent several days meeting with members of the gay community including homeless gay youth and the parents and families of victims of anti-gay violence. The video in this blog post is of Tracy Morgan's official public apology to the Nashville community.
The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) got involved and there were calls for Tracy Morgan to apologize for his remarks. Tracy Morgan has spent several days meeting with members of the gay community including homeless gay youth and the parents and families of victims of anti-gay violence. The video in this blog post is of Tracy Morgan's official public apology to the Nashville community.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Sir James Paul McCartney Birthday
Happy Birthday to Paul McCartney, born June 18, 1942.
Have you ever had a school carpool where one parent driving a 1970's wood paneled station wagon (Ford Torino) only owned ONE 8-track tape and it seemed like they didn't know how to pull it out of the tape deck?
That's how often I heard this song in 1976.
Sing it with me over and over and over.."someones knockin at the door, somebodys ringing the bell"
Do me a favor, open the door...AND LET ME OUT!!
It seemed like it was a really long commute to and from school back in the day.
Have you ever had a school carpool where one parent driving a 1970's wood paneled station wagon (Ford Torino) only owned ONE 8-track tape and it seemed like they didn't know how to pull it out of the tape deck?
That's how often I heard this song in 1976.
Sing it with me over and over and over.."someones knockin at the door, somebodys ringing the bell"
Do me a favor, open the door...AND LET ME OUT!!
It seemed like it was a really long commute to and from school back in the day.
Thank God it's Disco Saturday- 3rd week of June 2011
Its Disco Saturday for the 3rd weekend of June 2011.
Opening the disco blog we celebrate birthdays. This week we highlight two birthdays.
It is a safe bet that most of you may not know who recorded some disco tracks before bigger fame as a TV mom.
Phylicia Ayers-Allen was born June 19, 1948. When she married Amhad Rashad in 1985 she became one of the rare popular celebrities to change her public name to her match her married name. Most when they get married keep the name they are known professionally as their stage name.
Phylicia reached her greatest fame as "Clair Huxtable" on "The Cosby Show" but she has disco roots. She recorded her own music and was married for years to Victor Willis, a member of The Village People during that groups highest success.
Here is one hard to find example of Phylicia's disco music from her 1978 album honoring Josephine Baker.
There were other recordings on YouTube from time to time but they are not available at the time of this blog post. But Happy birthday to Phylicia Ayers-Allen-Rashad on June 19th.
As for her former husband's group The Village People. You won't see much of their music on this blog simply because most of their music through YouTube isn't allowed for embedding on blogs and websites. Artists, recording and publishing companies do own the rights to the music and can dictate how they can be used. So if they don't allow it, you won't see it here. And it is very possible that anything already posted here might not be available at a later date.
Having said that, let get back to the music that we can hear for Disco Saturday
This week's second birthday honoree is Lionel Richie who's birthday is June 20, 1949
His group during the Disco Era of course would be The Commodores and there surely were many a "Brick House" on the dance floor.
Lionel Richie and The Commodores were also in a Disco era feature film, "Thank God Its Friday"
The Commodores hit single from the movie soundtrack was "Too Hot To Trot"
Also on the soundtrack and starring in the movie was Donna Summer with her song "Last Dance"
Oh but that isn't the last dance. Disco Saturday has more!
"Lets All Chant" by The Michael Zager Band
------------------------------------------------------------------
This one is a favorite you will hear occasionally in its entirety on "Feel The Spin", a great music program hosted by Larry Flick on SiriusXM satellite radio's "OutQ" channel. A Donna Summer Suite "Once Upon A Time.. Rumour Has It / I Love You / Happily Ever After".
By all means, check out Larry's show. It's definitely worth your time on Sunday afternoons. Click on Larry Flick's name to follow him on Twitter or click the link on the right side of this page for "Feel The Spin" blogs that will include a song list.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
One long set of Donna Summer requires equal time. Here is a long set of Gloria Gaynor's mid 1970's finest. "Never Can Say Goodbye" "Honey Bee" "Reach Out I'll Be There" and "If You Want It (Do It Yourself)"
-------------------------------------------------------------------
And since I am in the mood this week for the LONG sets. And I must include something out of Philadelphia. "Love Is the Message" by MFSB is clearly one of the best dance tunes of the 1970's from one of the best collection of musicians from the decade and beyond. Any long and lush recording of theirs under any identity is a treat to the ears.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
And to close out this week's Disco Saturday, we get long and funky. "Not just knee Deep" by Funkadelic and featuring the vocals of the late Phillippe' Wynne formerly of The Spinners.
Opening the disco blog we celebrate birthdays. This week we highlight two birthdays.
It is a safe bet that most of you may not know who recorded some disco tracks before bigger fame as a TV mom.
Phylicia Ayers-Allen was born June 19, 1948. When she married Amhad Rashad in 1985 she became one of the rare popular celebrities to change her public name to her match her married name. Most when they get married keep the name they are known professionally as their stage name.
Phylicia reached her greatest fame as "Clair Huxtable" on "The Cosby Show" but she has disco roots. She recorded her own music and was married for years to Victor Willis, a member of The Village People during that groups highest success.
Here is one hard to find example of Phylicia's disco music from her 1978 album honoring Josephine Baker.
There were other recordings on YouTube from time to time but they are not available at the time of this blog post. But Happy birthday to Phylicia Ayers-Allen-Rashad on June 19th.
As for her former husband's group The Village People. You won't see much of their music on this blog simply because most of their music through YouTube isn't allowed for embedding on blogs and websites. Artists, recording and publishing companies do own the rights to the music and can dictate how they can be used. So if they don't allow it, you won't see it here. And it is very possible that anything already posted here might not be available at a later date.
Having said that, let get back to the music that we can hear for Disco Saturday
This week's second birthday honoree is Lionel Richie who's birthday is June 20, 1949
His group during the Disco Era of course would be The Commodores and there surely were many a "Brick House" on the dance floor.
Lionel Richie and The Commodores were also in a Disco era feature film, "Thank God Its Friday"
The Commodores hit single from the movie soundtrack was "Too Hot To Trot"
Also on the soundtrack and starring in the movie was Donna Summer with her song "Last Dance"
Oh but that isn't the last dance. Disco Saturday has more!
"Lets All Chant" by The Michael Zager Band
------------------------------------------------------------------
This one is a favorite you will hear occasionally in its entirety on "Feel The Spin", a great music program hosted by Larry Flick on SiriusXM satellite radio's "OutQ" channel. A Donna Summer Suite "Once Upon A Time.. Rumour Has It / I Love You / Happily Ever After".
By all means, check out Larry's show. It's definitely worth your time on Sunday afternoons. Click on Larry Flick's name to follow him on Twitter or click the link on the right side of this page for "Feel The Spin" blogs that will include a song list.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
One long set of Donna Summer requires equal time. Here is a long set of Gloria Gaynor's mid 1970's finest. "Never Can Say Goodbye" "Honey Bee" "Reach Out I'll Be There" and "If You Want It (Do It Yourself)"
-------------------------------------------------------------------
And since I am in the mood this week for the LONG sets. And I must include something out of Philadelphia. "Love Is the Message" by MFSB is clearly one of the best dance tunes of the 1970's from one of the best collection of musicians from the decade and beyond. Any long and lush recording of theirs under any identity is a treat to the ears.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
And to close out this week's Disco Saturday, we get long and funky. "Not just knee Deep" by Funkadelic and featuring the vocals of the late Phillippe' Wynne formerly of The Spinners.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Disco Saturday- 2nd week of June 2011
Disco Saturday for the weekend of June 11th.
Start your dance a with birthday recogitions.
Happy Birthday to Mick Hucknall of Simply Red, born June 8, 1960
"Fairground" (1995)
Happy Birthday to Doris Pearson, the eldest child in the Pearson family that made up the group FIVE STAR. She was born June 8, 1966. And happy birthday to her sister Denise Pearson, born June 13, 1968
"All Fall Down" (1985)
Remembering Reynoldo "Obie" Benson, of the Four Tops Renaldo "Obie" Benson (June 14, 1936 – July 1, 2005)
"Catfish" by The Four Tops (1976)
Happy 50th birthday to Boy George, born George O'Dowd on June 14, 1961
"Miss Be Blind" by Culture Club
Happy Birthday to Barry Manilow, born June 17, 1943
"Copacabana" by Barry Manilow (1978)
June is Gay Pride month. Last week we honored Gay Days in Orlando. This weekend there are Gay Pride events in places like Washington DC, Philadelphia and Key West. So I thought I would post music from performers who are native to those areas.
Harry Casey is from Hallandale Florida which is in the Miami area which is not too far from Key West where they are having Key West Pride from June 8-12, 2011.
Harry Casey if you aren't aware is "KC" of KC and The Sunshine Band.
"Keep It Coming Love"
CAPITAL PRIDE in Washington DC is this weekend and their headline entertainment this year is JENNIFER HOLIDAY.
"No Frills Love" by Jennifer Holiday
Amii Stewart is from the Washington DC area. Of course she has the disco classic "Knock On Wood"
Also from Washington DC, Shannon (real name Brenda Shannon Greene)
"Let The Music Play"
And the favorite city of DISCO SATURDAY is of course the city of Brotherly Love and PHILLY PRIDE is also this weekend. And from the great disco foundation that is the sound of Philadelphia, this week's "Philly Posts" feature First Choice who's lead singer Rochelle Fleming is a friend of the gay community and sometimes appears at Gay pride events.
"Dr Love"
"Double Cross"
And that is your 10 plus one for DISCO SATURDAY this weekend. I try to post away from the mainstream hits and bring back memories of the deepest disco cuts you don't hear unless presented by a serious disco fan usually someone who might have been there when it was created. Anyway here's hoping you have a safe and happy pride weekend as we continue through the Pride month of June. Have fun in Key West, Washington DC and Philadelphia and other places that are holding LGBT pride events this weekend and this month.
See you next "Disco Saturday"
Start your dance a with birthday recogitions.
Happy Birthday to Mick Hucknall of Simply Red, born June 8, 1960
"Fairground" (1995)
Happy Birthday to Doris Pearson, the eldest child in the Pearson family that made up the group FIVE STAR. She was born June 8, 1966. And happy birthday to her sister Denise Pearson, born June 13, 1968
"All Fall Down" (1985)
Remembering Reynoldo "Obie" Benson, of the Four Tops Renaldo "Obie" Benson (June 14, 1936 – July 1, 2005)
"Catfish" by The Four Tops (1976)
Happy 50th birthday to Boy George, born George O'Dowd on June 14, 1961
"Miss Be Blind" by Culture Club
Happy Birthday to Barry Manilow, born June 17, 1943
"Copacabana" by Barry Manilow (1978)
June is Gay Pride month. Last week we honored Gay Days in Orlando. This weekend there are Gay Pride events in places like Washington DC, Philadelphia and Key West. So I thought I would post music from performers who are native to those areas.
Harry Casey is from Hallandale Florida which is in the Miami area which is not too far from Key West where they are having Key West Pride from June 8-12, 2011.
Harry Casey if you aren't aware is "KC" of KC and The Sunshine Band.
"Keep It Coming Love"
CAPITAL PRIDE in Washington DC is this weekend and their headline entertainment this year is JENNIFER HOLIDAY.
"No Frills Love" by Jennifer Holiday
Amii Stewart is from the Washington DC area. Of course she has the disco classic "Knock On Wood"
Also from Washington DC, Shannon (real name Brenda Shannon Greene)
"Let The Music Play"
And the favorite city of DISCO SATURDAY is of course the city of Brotherly Love and PHILLY PRIDE is also this weekend. And from the great disco foundation that is the sound of Philadelphia, this week's "Philly Posts" feature First Choice who's lead singer Rochelle Fleming is a friend of the gay community and sometimes appears at Gay pride events.
"Dr Love"
"Double Cross"
And that is your 10 plus one for DISCO SATURDAY this weekend. I try to post away from the mainstream hits and bring back memories of the deepest disco cuts you don't hear unless presented by a serious disco fan usually someone who might have been there when it was created. Anyway here's hoping you have a safe and happy pride weekend as we continue through the Pride month of June. Have fun in Key West, Washington DC and Philadelphia and other places that are holding LGBT pride events this weekend and this month.
See you next "Disco Saturday"
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Soul Salute: Jackie Wilson's birthday
Remembering Jack Leroy Wilson Jr, known as "Mr Excitement", the late great Jackie Wilson (June 9, 1934 – January 21, 1984)
"Lonely Teardrops"
"Doggin Around"
"That's Why I Love You Soul"
"Sweetest Feeling"
"Whispers Getting Louder"
"Lonely Teardrops"
"Doggin Around"
"That's Why I Love You Soul"
"Sweetest Feeling"
"Whispers Getting Louder"
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
He blocks his music on YouTube, I block his birthday
There is this musician based in Minneapolis. He's been around a little over 30 years. He's kinda little physically but his career sure has been big. I mean huge! If he wants to have a concert in a big stadium he will have no problem filling every seat. Then those in attendance might get to see the musician prance around the stage wearing pants with the butt cut out so you can see his little flat beige ass while rocking his guitar.
The musician I am talking about is a legend. And he is loved by many, even by me despite my anger with him on today, his birthday.
Why am I angry. Well this musician is very tight on the use and release of his music. It is his right but it is unnecessary. He has traditionally employed difficult tactics in releasing his music so his fans can enjoy.
I remember when this musician released a 3 CD "hits" set in 1993 when the average price of a single compact disc was about $20. This musician released his "Hits" CD's as a separate purchase of either "Hits 1" or "Hits 2", but the best songs were on "Hits 3" and you could not purchase "Hits 3" by itself. You had to purchase the entire 3 CD set at a price that was more than double that of buying "Hits 1" & "Hits 2" separately and combined. So technically this would mean $40-50 dollars for the "Hits 3" CD. And back then I just couldn't afford to pay so much for what really was so little.
In the years since there were albums that were sold underground therefore required extensive work from this musician's fans to get and enjoy his music. Then he changed his name to a symbol. Another stupid gimmick and fast forward to today where we have YouTube, the main source of music posted on this blog and this musician is one of the last holdouts to allowing his music to be played on YouTube. Most of his songs are blocked, muted or quickly removed. And because of that I am unable to post anything by this musician and I am unable to post a "Soul Salute" or any type of tribute in honor of this legendary musician's birthday.
Currently there are some songs available from this musician on YouTube. Perhaps they are songs uploaded that he hasn't caught up with. But I won't waste time posting his music and risk that the links don't work in the future.
I haven't mentioned this musician's name, but I don't have to. You probably know who I am talking about now. Below are some of the classics he wrote and recorded but were also hits from other performers.
Like this song from the entertainer who shares a birthday with that musician. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOM JONES! (Born Thomas John Woodward on June 7, 1940)
And other famous songs by that musician that were hits by other artists who aren't so restrictive of their material on YouTube.
Me'lisa Morgan "Do Me Baby"
"I Feel For You" by Chaka Khan
"Purple Rain" by Randy Crawford
Now if you want to hear the music of the musician himself. Go ahead and find it elsewhere. When this musician makes his music easier for his fans to listen to without going bankrupt then I will give him the proper respect here at Pride and Soul. But I do wish that musician a happy birthday.
The musician I am talking about is a legend. And he is loved by many, even by me despite my anger with him on today, his birthday.
Why am I angry. Well this musician is very tight on the use and release of his music. It is his right but it is unnecessary. He has traditionally employed difficult tactics in releasing his music so his fans can enjoy.
I remember when this musician released a 3 CD "hits" set in 1993 when the average price of a single compact disc was about $20. This musician released his "Hits" CD's as a separate purchase of either "Hits 1" or "Hits 2", but the best songs were on "Hits 3" and you could not purchase "Hits 3" by itself. You had to purchase the entire 3 CD set at a price that was more than double that of buying "Hits 1" & "Hits 2" separately and combined. So technically this would mean $40-50 dollars for the "Hits 3" CD. And back then I just couldn't afford to pay so much for what really was so little.
In the years since there were albums that were sold underground therefore required extensive work from this musician's fans to get and enjoy his music. Then he changed his name to a symbol. Another stupid gimmick and fast forward to today where we have YouTube, the main source of music posted on this blog and this musician is one of the last holdouts to allowing his music to be played on YouTube. Most of his songs are blocked, muted or quickly removed. And because of that I am unable to post anything by this musician and I am unable to post a "Soul Salute" or any type of tribute in honor of this legendary musician's birthday.
Currently there are some songs available from this musician on YouTube. Perhaps they are songs uploaded that he hasn't caught up with. But I won't waste time posting his music and risk that the links don't work in the future.
I haven't mentioned this musician's name, but I don't have to. You probably know who I am talking about now. Below are some of the classics he wrote and recorded but were also hits from other performers.
Like this song from the entertainer who shares a birthday with that musician. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOM JONES! (Born Thomas John Woodward on June 7, 1940)
And other famous songs by that musician that were hits by other artists who aren't so restrictive of their material on YouTube.
Me'lisa Morgan "Do Me Baby"
"I Feel For You" by Chaka Khan
"Purple Rain" by Randy Crawford
Now if you want to hear the music of the musician himself. Go ahead and find it elsewhere. When this musician makes his music easier for his fans to listen to without going bankrupt then I will give him the proper respect here at Pride and Soul. But I do wish that musician a happy birthday.
Saturday, June 04, 2011
What do 30 years of AIDS and Ronald Reagan have in common?
Lets take a minute and acknowledge a somber anniversary.
The title of this blog post asks "What do 30 years of AIDS and Ronald Reagan have in common?" They both have June 5Th in common.
June 5Th, 1981: The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that five people in Los Angeles, California have a rare form of pneumonia seen only in patients with weakened immune systems, in what turns out to be the first recognized cases of AIDS.
The AIDS pandemic began 30 years ago. June 5Th being the 30Th anniversary of a disease that has killed millions of people around the world
June 5Th is also the 7Th anniversary of the death of Ronald Wilson Reagan, the man who was President of The United States when the AIDS pandemic began died on the morning of June 5,2004. Ronald Reagan was the President of the United States of America that basically ignored the pandemic until the last half of his SECOND term in office. By then it was too late for thousands who were dying at a fast pace without the support and care of their government.
Ronald Reagan died of a disease that had full attention of medical and government officials. He had access to the necessary medical care and treatment that diagnosed his condition and sustained him until he was well into his 90's and his OLD body finally gave out. But when he was in office, many people found themselves with short death sentences and no hope. Many had little time to spend with their families and to say goodbye. Ronald Reagan had his family by his side for many years so he could die with dignity.
On this 30Th anniversary of AIDS, lets remember those who were lost too soon and those who deal with the complications and great financial strain of treatment of HIV and AIDS today. And never forget to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you from becoming infected.
But also remember the former President of the United States on this day. Its ironic that Ronald Reagan died on the same day that years earlier revealed a pandemic that he chose to ignore for years. Others will remember Ronald Reagan for other reasons, his acting career and his political career. And those who loved and cherished Reagan will omit one of his greatest blunders.
Ronald Reagan would have turned 100 earlier this year and people celebrated the anniversary of a man many hold responsible for thousands of deaths because the government he led wasn't there for its citizens.
As for this blogger personally, I haven't had to deal closely with HIV/AIDS. I haven't been sexually active and therefore I am negative. I have known only a few people personally who were infected or who died of AIDS but I didn't know any of them well enough to be considered a "close" friend and I am unaware of any family members who had to deal with the pandemic. I consider myself extremely lucky. But of the people I did know I witnessed the pain and grief of their friends and families. I witnessed their strength and their sorrow. And I wouldn't wish for my worst enemies to have to go through that kind of pain.
I acknowledge this somber anniversary with a little less knowledge than most because I didn't have to experience it directly. But I also acknowledge this somber anniversary with the hope and determination of always learning, always preparing, and always PROTECTING.
Stay safe! And read any of the articles linked below that will provide a much better insight on this 30Th anniversary of AIDS
"Calling HIV Negative Men, This is YOUR time" by Mark King published in the Georgia Voice
"30 Decades Later We Must Act Up Again" By Craig Washington published in The Georgia Voice
GAY, BI MEN REMAIN KEY TO HIV EPIDEMIC by Lou Chibarro Jr. Published in the Washington Blade
The title of this blog post asks "What do 30 years of AIDS and Ronald Reagan have in common?" They both have June 5Th in common.
June 5Th, 1981: The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that five people in Los Angeles, California have a rare form of pneumonia seen only in patients with weakened immune systems, in what turns out to be the first recognized cases of AIDS.
The AIDS pandemic began 30 years ago. June 5Th being the 30Th anniversary of a disease that has killed millions of people around the world
June 5Th is also the 7Th anniversary of the death of Ronald Wilson Reagan, the man who was President of The United States when the AIDS pandemic began died on the morning of June 5,2004. Ronald Reagan was the President of the United States of America that basically ignored the pandemic until the last half of his SECOND term in office. By then it was too late for thousands who were dying at a fast pace without the support and care of their government.
Ronald Reagan died of a disease that had full attention of medical and government officials. He had access to the necessary medical care and treatment that diagnosed his condition and sustained him until he was well into his 90's and his OLD body finally gave out. But when he was in office, many people found themselves with short death sentences and no hope. Many had little time to spend with their families and to say goodbye. Ronald Reagan had his family by his side for many years so he could die with dignity.
On this 30Th anniversary of AIDS, lets remember those who were lost too soon and those who deal with the complications and great financial strain of treatment of HIV and AIDS today. And never forget to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you from becoming infected.
But also remember the former President of the United States on this day. Its ironic that Ronald Reagan died on the same day that years earlier revealed a pandemic that he chose to ignore for years. Others will remember Ronald Reagan for other reasons, his acting career and his political career. And those who loved and cherished Reagan will omit one of his greatest blunders.
Ronald Reagan would have turned 100 earlier this year and people celebrated the anniversary of a man many hold responsible for thousands of deaths because the government he led wasn't there for its citizens.
As for this blogger personally, I haven't had to deal closely with HIV/AIDS. I haven't been sexually active and therefore I am negative. I have known only a few people personally who were infected or who died of AIDS but I didn't know any of them well enough to be considered a "close" friend and I am unaware of any family members who had to deal with the pandemic. I consider myself extremely lucky. But of the people I did know I witnessed the pain and grief of their friends and families. I witnessed their strength and their sorrow. And I wouldn't wish for my worst enemies to have to go through that kind of pain.
I acknowledge this somber anniversary with a little less knowledge than most because I didn't have to experience it directly. But I also acknowledge this somber anniversary with the hope and determination of always learning, always preparing, and always PROTECTING.
Stay safe! And read any of the articles linked below that will provide a much better insight on this 30Th anniversary of AIDS
"Calling HIV Negative Men, This is YOUR time" by Mark King published in the Georgia Voice
"30 Decades Later We Must Act Up Again" By Craig Washington published in The Georgia Voice
GAY, BI MEN REMAIN KEY TO HIV EPIDEMIC by Lou Chibarro Jr. Published in the Washington Blade
Disco Saturday and Gay Days 20th anniversary
"Disco Saturday" for the first weekend in June 2011. This is the popular "Gay Days" weekend in Orlando Florida. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the first "Gay Day" at Walt Disney World. Originally an unofficial gathering of Gays and Lesbians at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, the event has grown into a week of gay pride events all over Central Florida. And surely some of its participants are fans of the old school Disco you will get here for "Disco Saturday"
Since this weeks "Disco Saturday" is in honor of Gay Days weekend in Orlando, I thought I would share with you the five part video of friends who attended Gay Days in 2010. You can enjoy this and other videos from the highly recommended YouTube channel "Life In The Form of Sean" And if you like the videos, then you should "Like" Sean on Facebook
"Gay Days 2010"
Videos produced by Mark O'Byrne.
PART ONE
PART TWO
PART THREE
PART FOUR
PART FIVE
Now that you enjoyed the video visit of Disney World, this week's "Disco Saturday" blog begins with a little Disco Mickey Mouse.
Sorry Mickey for bringing this up. But you did record this.
Oh and Donald Duck doesn't get off the hook. He wasn't a "Disco Duck" but was a "Macho Duck".
Well thats enough "Disney Disco" as these are modern times and the younger attendees would prefer Lady Gaga disney. Whatever your musical preference, if you are attending "Gay Days" in Orlando, be safe, have fun and dance a little.
And I have the next dance for you with birthday greetings..
"I've Got The Next Dance" by Deniece Williams
June Deniece Chandler turns 61 on June 3rd.
One part of the "Gay Days" theme is to wear a RED T-SHIRT to the theme parks. And being the fashion conscience people of the world, surely the gays will wear those red shirts very well. (Well those who wear shirts)
"You Wear It Well" by DeBarge
Eldra Patrick DeBarge, "El" DeBarge turns 50 on June 4th!
While waiting on line for a theme park ride many will hope they can "Move On Up" in line quickly. June 3rd was the birthday of the late Curtis Mayfield, who wrote the song "Move On Up" which was covered by the disco group Destination.
"Move On UP" by Destination
And once you get on those theme park rides, "Don't let go" for you don't want to fall off. Or if that theme park involves a haunted house or other scary attraction, "Don't let Go" of your partner!
"Don't Let Go" by Isaac Hayes
And after a day in the theme parks, many will go to any of the circuit parties or clubs and the music will continue to play.
"Let The Music Play" by Shannon
And it all comes to an end late Sunday. So where will YOU go when the party is over?
"Disco Sunday" goes to Philadelphia of course.
"Where Will You Go When The Party's Over" by Archie Bell & The Drells on Philadelphia International.
And our next stop in Philly is our favorite First Choice "Let No Man Put Asunder"
And finally here are two from the "Everyone had to try disco at least once" catagory...
TYRONE DAVIS "Get On UP"
And Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr, "Shine On Silver Moon"
And thats your Disco Saturday for this week.
Keep on shining!
Since this weeks "Disco Saturday" is in honor of Gay Days weekend in Orlando, I thought I would share with you the five part video of friends who attended Gay Days in 2010. You can enjoy this and other videos from the highly recommended YouTube channel "Life In The Form of Sean" And if you like the videos, then you should "Like" Sean on Facebook
"Gay Days 2010"
Videos produced by Mark O'Byrne.
PART ONE
PART TWO
PART THREE
PART FOUR
PART FIVE
Now that you enjoyed the video visit of Disney World, this week's "Disco Saturday" blog begins with a little Disco Mickey Mouse.
Sorry Mickey for bringing this up. But you did record this.
Oh and Donald Duck doesn't get off the hook. He wasn't a "Disco Duck" but was a "Macho Duck".
Well thats enough "Disney Disco" as these are modern times and the younger attendees would prefer Lady Gaga disney. Whatever your musical preference, if you are attending "Gay Days" in Orlando, be safe, have fun and dance a little.
And I have the next dance for you with birthday greetings..
"I've Got The Next Dance" by Deniece Williams
June Deniece Chandler turns 61 on June 3rd.
One part of the "Gay Days" theme is to wear a RED T-SHIRT to the theme parks. And being the fashion conscience people of the world, surely the gays will wear those red shirts very well. (Well those who wear shirts)
"You Wear It Well" by DeBarge
Eldra Patrick DeBarge, "El" DeBarge turns 50 on June 4th!
While waiting on line for a theme park ride many will hope they can "Move On Up" in line quickly. June 3rd was the birthday of the late Curtis Mayfield, who wrote the song "Move On Up" which was covered by the disco group Destination.
"Move On UP" by Destination
And once you get on those theme park rides, "Don't let go" for you don't want to fall off. Or if that theme park involves a haunted house or other scary attraction, "Don't let Go" of your partner!
"Don't Let Go" by Isaac Hayes
And after a day in the theme parks, many will go to any of the circuit parties or clubs and the music will continue to play.
"Let The Music Play" by Shannon
And it all comes to an end late Sunday. So where will YOU go when the party is over?
"Disco Sunday" goes to Philadelphia of course.
"Where Will You Go When The Party's Over" by Archie Bell & The Drells on Philadelphia International.
And our next stop in Philly is our favorite First Choice "Let No Man Put Asunder"
And finally here are two from the "Everyone had to try disco at least once" catagory...
TYRONE DAVIS "Get On UP"
And Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr, "Shine On Silver Moon"
And thats your Disco Saturday for this week.
Keep on shining!
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