Continue reading »]]> Tis’ the Season for all music and movie lovers to enjoy the ‘wrap-up’ of 2011 and look forward to the amazing entertainment that is coming our way in 2012.  Over the past few months we have been speaking about Lil’ Mirkk.  Readers have learned almost everything there is to know about this true motion picture star and nationally-known rapper whose career has crossed artistic and creative genres all across the board.

From actor to producer to rap artist – Lil’ Mirkk is one of those amazingly talented individuals whose skills know no bounds.  And as we learn more about him each and every week, we have all gone in-depth with this incredible singer and actor and learned that he is literally one of the most honest, forthright and candid men that anyone could ever have the pleasure of meeting.

We have spoken about how Lil’ Mirkk was once a gang member in South Central L.A., who ended up surviving a very frightening background and becoming a huge proponent for the younger generation. Reaching out to all young adults and young people who are in dire need of being helped, Lil’ Mirkk has become a truly positive role model for one and all. Not a surprise, seeing as that Lil’ Mirkk professes the good in everyone. He believes in the positive aspects of life and surrounding yourself with goodness and truth on a daily basis.

When we spoke to Lil’ Mirkk about his past, the story was deeply emotional:

Well, unfortunately, this is a side no one really knows about me. I had parents who said, at one time, that they wished I had never been born, and treated my sibling far better than me. So, I was always looking for a ‘true’ family.  As I got older, I got involved in the wrong thing – a street gang – where I saw many good young men die.  After years of being involved, I had a son, and knew it was time to quit.

I came very close to losing my life twice, but the good Lord spared me.  So now I use those experiences and speak to America’s youth about the harm of being involved in gangs. I speak about becoming a part of groups that will get them very far in life, and not put them or their loved ones in jeopardy.  No one wants to look over their shoulder everyday. God did not put us here for that reason. He put us here to love one another and to appreciate all.

Truer words have never been spoken.  Lil’ Mirkk is immersed in the holiday season, and is extremely thankful and happy for the turn his life has taken.  From the movies that we have spoken about that Lil’ Mirkk will be a part of, such as what will most likely become the largest adventure movie of 2012 – Battleship – this true artist will soon become a ‘larger than life’ figure in the world of Hollywood very, very soon.

We have also spoken about Lil’ Mirkk’s reintroduction to the rap/hip hop scene with his new album, WTF, which will be released in 2012 by Def Jam Records!  Not only that, but the movie that will be based on the most popular video game – HALO – is just waiting to come “out of the gate” and begin filming, with Lil’ Mirkk playing the main character: the chemically-and-surgically-enhanced super soldier, John-117 Master Chief.

One of the biggest things that people have learned about Lil’ Mirkk is his ability to spark kindness in others. One of the issues that Lil’ Mirkk speaks about a great deal is ‘peace’ – and how this world needs to find said peace amongst each other.  Again, another truly honest statement.  Lil’ Mirkk is one man who has seen all sides of the spectrum.  From when he first began, Lil’ Mirkk was born into a household that included a father who was once a part-time DJ for KJLH, and a mother who helped her son get into the industry. Casting directors began to approach her, as they saw the talent that her son possessed.  These professionals would pick Lil’ Mirkk and jobs were booked.  From Chico & The Man to a slew of commercials and playing the beloved character of Bionic Boy, Lil’ Mirkk’s younger days were filled with work.  Sadly, some of his early story involves these very same professionals stealing the money he made, sending Lil’ Mirkk into a world of pain, hurt and violence.

Deep down, Lil’ Mirkk also had the talent of rhyming and being a rapper grew inside of the young man. One day a substitute teacher saw this talent and Lil’ Mirkk wrote a rap and delivered it in class, spawning cheers from all his classmates.  The teacher even said that she saw potential in his work and a possible future in the music industry. When Lil’ Mirkk hit the studio in 1985, he was able to learn and develop his music releasing his first CD, “Seeing is Believing” when he was only a teenager.  There are those who said that Lil’ Mirkk would never make it as a rapper, but this talented and extremely strong individual proved them wrong.

We have said over and over again how exceptional an individual Lil’ Mirkk is, and how much joy and kindness he brings to every world he has become a part of.  Music, movies, producing, acting – this is a man with a huge heart who wants more than anything to give back to others.

As the holidays come upon us, Lil’ Mirkk wants to reach out to his fans and let them know that he wishes everyone a truly Happy Holiday.  And when Lil’ Mirkk thinks about the absolute best Christmas present ever, this is what he would like all of his fans to know:

The best gift ever would be for this entire world to be at peace.  No gang wars, no wars in the world, no racism, no sexism…and people should know that women are just as capable as us males, and deserve huge amounts of respect.  I send ‘Greetings’ to the Dunn family, and for all – I wish you a very Happy Holiday!.  –  Lil’ Mirkk

 Our New Year’s Resolution?  Give us MORE Lil’ Mirkk!

The New Year looks extremely bright for one and all, as Lil’ Mirkk becomes an amazing example of a talented man with heart, soul and a desire to reach out to all and usher in a new decade of peace!

Until Next Time, Everybody!

For More Information on Lil’ Mirkk, Go to:

Imdb: http://imdb.to/cjDtxg

Twitter: http://bit.ly/o2wgQ2

Web: http://www.LilMirkk.com

Or write to:

BookingLilMirkk@gmail.com

Continue reading »]]>

A BRIEF NIGHT OUT

The Rock Opera That Has Gotten Immaculate Reviews is Being Performed LIVE!

**

The Triad

158 West 72nd Street

New York, NY 10023-3320

(212) 362-2590

Reservations: www.Triadnyc.com

**

Monday, December 12, 2011

7 p.m. SHARP!

Doors Open at 6:30 p.m.

($12 cover w/2 drink minimum/cash only)

**

A Brief Night Out

Written and performed by the INCREDIBLE Marla Mase, tells the tale of a middle-aged woman breaking down, having an affair, obsessed with war and brimming with a sexy brand of anxiety.

**

This Seriously AMAZING rock-n-roll mid-life crisis! HAS to Be Seen!

Written and performed by Marla Mase

with the Tomás Doncker Band

Directed by Sara Berg

 (Band: Tomás Doncker (guitars, vocals); Booker King (bass); Heather Powell (vocals); Tobias Ralph (drums); and, Nick Rolfe (keyboards)

Continue reading »]]> Readers, we have spoken over the last few weeks about this incredible star, and the list of what this producer/actor/rapper and entertainer will be doing with his 2012 has been absolutely monumental.  This week, however, we are going to step away from the bright lights and big city to talk about the ‘heart’ of this truly incredible individual.

From the very beginning of this man’s life – Joel Earl Rose was destined to be a star.  But, unlike what everyone believes when it comes to the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood lifestyle, Lil’ Mirkk had to go through a list of some serious lows along with his serious highs.  As a short recap, as we all know, Lil’ Mirkk was born with talent; an abundance of talent, to say the least.  At only the age of four he was a major player on the beloved show, Chico & The Man. He also added to resume a short time later the truly American character, Bionic Boy in the 1970’s, with guest-starring roles on T.V. shows like The Bionic Woman.

In fact, for a little while, it seemed as if every time a television set was turned on across America, Lil’ Mirkk’s darling face was a part of whatever they were watching – including commercials for companies like Burger King, McDonald’s, Toys ‘R’ Us, and Coca-Cola.  As he continued on, his other extremely amazing skill – the ability to rhyme and rap – came forth from the young man and he was soon known as Def Ice with an album titled, “Seeing is Believing,” (released by Rainbo Records.)  Far before the age of American Idol, etc., Lil’ Mirkk became the ‘it’ man on the scene – on television as well as the music community – but the good unfortunately came with the bad.

As we enter this holiday time, what we all can see, read about, and listen to on television is the fact that many of our young people in this day and age are getting attached to gangs and the gang life.  There are so many talented young men and women who are at a loss as to what to do with themselves, and they desperately seek a “family” of some sort for support.

Parenthood was once an extremely important job for us all.  Raising our kids to have good lives – even during our times of financial struggle – was something we all sought to do and do well.  But now, as the world has changed and become certainly more bitter, we are finding that America’s children are without a family.  They are without hope, and they are turning to the world of gangs in order to fit in.

Lil’ Mirkk was one of those young men.  Even though he began with what most would call a fairytale life that other kids (and adults) would kill for, times of trouble appeared on his horizon as he was stolen from.  Everything that he had worked so hard to make for himself – a nest egg at such a young age that would’ve allowed him a flawless future – was ripped out from underneath him.  And although he has offered forgiveness to one and all, there was a very frightening time in Lil’ Mirkk’s life where he took the wrong road and could very well have ended up dead.

In Lil’ Mirkk’s own words, he has stated that:

“I didn’t get the love my parents should have given me, so I went looking for a ‘family’ which was a street gang in South Central Los Angeles. I became so involved with that type of frightening life, that I ended up having to always look over my shoulder…which no human being should ever have to do. I’ve seen so much…”

I’m sure it would’ve been hard for that boy to imagine that one day he would be starring with Liam Neeson and Rihanna in Battleship, or playing a huge part in a much-touted comedy called, Mischief Manor, which will soon become part of the cinematic experience.  Having to constantly worry and wonder what the next hour would be filled with – whether it be violence, death, or a future in prison – is nowhere near knowing that you are going to be in the highly-anticipated movie based on the top-selling video game of all time – HALO.

Finding a way to retreat from that type of life in one piece must be one of the most dangerous experiences in the world.  As Lil’ Mirkk tells us:  “It was when I had a son that things changed – he woke me up. It was like I had to change for my son, so I did.” 

Lil’ Mirkk is a true ‘celebrity’ to look up to.  This is not a man who has a reality show or pretends that he is better than everyone else.  This is a man who truly feels and believes everything about what is good in life, and wants to spread his words to the younger generation; try to save the American youth from throwing their lives away.

In 2012, this young man who struggled and almost lost his fight against the world is back, and Lil’ Mirkk will be releasing, with Def Jam Records, a new CD titled WTF in the new year.  Unlike a great deal of rappers, Lil’ Mirkk - like his beloved friend who has just passed Heavy D - wants to talk about the goodness in life and the fact that no matter what your daily ‘reality’ may be, if you have the power and the strength and the fortitude to make that life better, than absolutely no one and nothing can stand in your way.

Along with this incredible man’s exciting 2012, he is also putting a great deal of work into helping those people escape from that life.

“My words to the youth of America are that, if you are looking for an escape join the YMCA, or a sports program. Their are plenty of programs out there that will allow you to change your life, find friends, be a part of a family and a community, and give yourself the future that you deserve. Gangs is not the life. Putting your life at risk over gang involvement is a pure waste of a life. Like my motto says: God over Everytime!”

Again, I know this writer sounds – every week – as if I am building a ‘celebrity’ up to stand above the rest.  And…perhaps I am.  But there is a reason for that. This is a man who has gone through the absolute worst that humanity can offer.  He has had it all, lost it all, and found the courage to find a way to gain it all back.  He uses his heart, soul, mind, and talent – not to mention the horrors he’s seen – to help others.

If you are searching for someone to ‘look up to’ – look no further.  Lil’ Mirkk is a Hollywood star that truly shines!

Until Next Time, Everybody.

For More Information on Lil’ Mirkk, Go to:

Imdb: http://imdb.to/cjDtxg

Twitter: http://bit.ly/o2wgQ2

Web: http://www.LilMirkk.com

Or write to:

BookingLilMirkk@gmail.com

Continue reading »]]> THE RAINTREE RESTAURANT PROUDLY PRESENTS “HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM MARK TWAIN”!

Arriving just in time for the festive holiday season, America’s favorite observer and philosopher will pay a visit to St. Augustine to share his wit and wisdom. “Happy Holidays from Mark Twain” with Robert Gill will be making its debut at the Raintree Restaurant on Sundays, December 4, 11, & 18 in a special limited run that you won’t want to miss!

This spellbinding production will include the majority of the sold-out Limelight Theatre show this past January, with a generous assortment of Christmas confections sprinkled in as well. In recent years, Robert has brought several uniquely themed Twain shows to the Ross Theatre at Jacksonville University, the Gillespie Museum of Minerals at Stetson University, the Airstream Convention in St. Augustine, and Landrum Middle School in Ponte Vedra, among many others.

The distinguished Twain scholar, Dr. Cindy Lovell, Executive Director of  The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, and Mr. Gill’s collaborator, singles his portrayal out as, “the other Mark Twain…”. And  features editor Kameron Jackson of the Navigator in Jacksonville called the performance, “…very passionate and emotionally driven…”. This production promises to be the hit of the holiday season, in a deluxe dinner theatre setting! Make your reservations today!

Tickets are $39.95 per person all inclusive, with adult beverages also served separately. Dinner will be served at the Raintree Restaurant at 6:00 PM (suggested arrival time is 5:30 PM) with the show to follow at 7:00 PM. Ticketholders take note that the dinner and show are in the upstairs dining room. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Raintree Restaurant from 1:00 PM on, seven days a week, or please call 904-824-7211 for reservations.

Continue reading »]]> THE FAB FOUR: THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE

PONTE VEDRA CONCERT HALL

THIS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17^th

The Fab Four, the ultimate Beatles tribute band, will perform this Thursday, November 17^th at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. The Fab Four takes you on a journey through the entire Beatles catalogue and even dress the part. They are known for their note to note re-creation of each song, as well as their elaborate and detailed costumes.

Doors for the show open at7:00pm, while the show will begin at8:00pm.

This is a general admission show, but limited seating will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Tickets are currently on sale at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall box offices, ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

SHOW:                       The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute

VENUE:                      PONTE VEDRA CONCERTHALL

DATE:                                    THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17^TH 2011

TIME:                          Doors7:00pm / Show8:00pm

TICKET PRICE:        $32.50 in advance; $37.50 day of show

WEBSITE:                  thefabfour.com, pvconcerthall.com

Continue reading »]]>

Our Thanks and Love Go Out to Heavy D

There are news reports that seem almost constant nowadays, speaking about how another ‘celebrity’ has gone to the Lord.  But today’s news is all the more tragic for the simple fact that Dwight Arrington Myers was one of the most amazing inspirations on this planet…and will be sorely missed.

Heavy D had something to say.  He was not a ‘flash in the pan’ or a ‘commercialized brand’ – he was a soul who had such talent and such belief in life that he absolutely radiated greatness.  To those who were lucky enough to know him, Heavy D was one of those people whose soul, lyrics, visions and love must have been amazing to be around.

Heavy D had his talent immersed in all different areas of entertainment, including acting, record producing, singing, rapping, and showing America that there was love still to be found in our dire world.

It was in Jamaica in 1967 when we were blessed with Heavy D’s presence, and his family moved to Mt. Vernon, New York when he was still a very young man. (Heavy D referred to it as Money-earnin’ Mount Vernon).

Most all the world knew Heavy D as the leader of the hip-hop group, Heavy D & The Boyz; outstanding men who had the distinction of being the very first group to sign with Uptown Records.  Their debut CD, Living Large, appeared in 1987 and set the music world on its ear. And it was in 1990 when Troy Dixon (Trouble T. Roy) passed away at the age of twenty-two from an accidental fall, that the group created the platinum album, Peaceful Journey.  This was the album that gave Troy a stunning tribute – a song this writer will never forget titled, “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y).”

Heavy D & the Boyz were and always will remain, a truly stellar group that brought the world a series of incredible and unforgettable hip-hop/rap hits like Nuttin’ but Love in 1994.  But the world was lucky enough that Heavy D was willing to spread his vibe and voice to all areas of the entertainment industry.  He rapped on Michael Jackson’s hit “Jam,” and also brought his unending talent to Janet Jackson’s album, “Alright.”

Unlike most rappers, Heavy D could find a way lyrically to blend hip-hop seamlessly with pop, and was able to feed this starving nation the music we were longing to hear. This is the music that would literally wipe away the day-to-day grind and the horrors in the news, so we all could enjoy the lives we were leading.

The top 20 single, Now That We Found Love, was THE song in 1991, and you could not go to an event, a dance, a club – heck, you couldn’t even drive by a car on the road – without hearing that fantastic tune.  Heavy D was also known for a “chunky but funky“ persona, and I have to say that the ‘chunky’ part came from the fact that he had so much heart and so much soul that he needed room for it all.

Television and movies were also forms of media that Heavy D was seen and heard on a great deal.  One of the recent highlights happened four days ago.  This writer watched the B.E.T. Awards and was beyond thrilled when Heavy D closed the show with a stunning mix of his classic hits. This was his first live performance in fifteen years. It was just this morning that Heavy D appeared on Radio 1Xtra and spoke about how he put together the unforgettable performance; how he had practiced for six straight weeks, eight hours a day, so that he could deliver his very best – and he still was so nervous that he was almost ill before the performance.  I am one of millions who wish I could tell him how much I loved that night, and how for the last few days I have caught myself dancing, whistling, singing, and enjoying the hell out of that amazing voice and killer personality. I suppose I should take the time to thank the Lord upstairs for allowing Heavy D to be able to spread his magnificence to the world one last time.

“Don’t Curse.”  Heavy D meant it.  He meant what he sang, wrote, and said.  He was real and he was natural and he was one-of-a-kind – something the world needs far more of!  Like everyone else out there who is going absolutely crazy now, knowing that the one they could count on and believe in is now gone from our lives, I have to list some of the most wonderful moments I can think of that came from the mind of Heavy D.  These are things that will NEVER be forgotten.  In fact, you can whistle them at a moment’s notice which means there is no doubt that Heavy D has placed himself into the category of the ‘best’ that America has ever had to offer since we were born.

“In Living Color” was not only THE most hysterical show on television, but the theme song was perfect, and Heavy D can be thanked for that. Heavy D brought his talent to the acting world by appearing in television shows like Boston Public and films like the incredible Cider House Rules.  He‘s even in the new film gracing screens – Tower Heist.  (Yet another thank you to the ‘Man’ up above for allowing us this one last film performance, as well.)

The facts as the world knows them at this time are that a 911 call came from Heavy D’s Beverly Hills home at around 11:25 Pacific Time.  The caller stated that an unconscious man was on the walkway.  The ambulance arrived to a conscious and speaking Heavy D, and transported him to an L.A. hospital.  Unfortunately, Heavy D was pronounced dead just a few hours later at 1 p.m. this afternoon. There is an investigation, but there were no signs of foul play and it has been reported that Heavy D died of respiratory failure.

There are certainly parts of one’s mind that wants to scream out and go into a tirade when an amazing individual such as Heavy D is lost.  But there are other parts, deep within the soul, that are so grateful for the fact that we were allowed to spend even a little bit of time in his presence.

As a Heavy D Twitter follower, he always had the ability to put a bright spot into an otherwise drab day.  Heavy D’s last message sent earlier today read simply, Be Inspired.

Well…This man was a true inspiration.  He had the ability to inspire artists to paint, singers to perform, and writers to…write.  You, Heavy D, were an incredible human being, and the angels have definitely come out as the ‘lucky ones’ today.

Rest In Peace.