Terrance J Casino Royale B-Day Party @ Retreat Lounge

Terrance J Casino Royale B-Day Party @ Retreat Lounge

The place was packed to capacity as the stars came out to join BET's own Terrence J, co-host of 106 & Park. Comedians, actors, artists and even football players crowded in with some of NY's hottest ladies to make this event a night to remember. It all went down @ the Retreat Lounge (37 West 17th St.)as DJ Self and DJ S&S kept the dance floor moving for the 4 hr. event as attendees placed their bets and gambled for gift bags. The Red Carpet started @ 9pm and believe me the stars came out in droves. Check the footage...

So many came out to show love that it got packed pretty quickly and the celebrity attendees shuffled down the Red Carpet like they were on the Soul Train line. No disrespect to the organizers but the small yet tasteful venue made it hard to conduct interviews when you are standing shoulder to shoulder. Through the noise and the tight quarters, those who were privileged enough to be invited, still found space to party and shine. Although it started early, it looked like most NYC clubs @ 2am although the clock had yet to strike 12. At the stroke of midnite the crowd wish Terrence a Happy Birthday and broke out into song. I walked away from this one with only one drink spilled on my sleeve but no gift bag. I didn't get a chance to play a hand @ the card tables but I did catch a few partygoers throwing up their arms in glee. Glad to see such a great turn out for this young man who has held his own sharing the spotlight with Roxie who was also in the house. Until next time, it's your host with the most Red.71 and B.M.B.S. Family TV reporting to you straight from the streets of NY.

Nintendo Wii Party hosted bny Moya Mills @ Soho House NYC 3.28.09

Nintendo Wii Party @ Soho House NYC

After a long week on the job many of us, the young, sexy and outgoing find ourselves choosing between a night on our feet in a club, lounging in a bar or sitting through a movie. Well, here's a refreshing alternative, model and actress Moya Mills decided to host a small Nintendo Wii party for a few of her friends.

What was supposed to be a one time thing is turning into a regular scene. The 28th of March was the date for the second party and it was held @ the exclusive "Members Only" Soho House , one of the hot spots in the Meatpacking District area of lower Manhattan. With a minimal $10 cover charge attendees got more than your money's worth. Music was provided by a fellow B.M.B.S. member, DJ Flyy Girl , the turntable heroine that hails from the Bronx. She was featured back in November 2007 issue here @ www.bmbsfamily.com , so please check it out. Players got into full swing trying their hand @ bowling, boxing, tennis and more. I got a chance to speak with Ms. Mills as she mingled with her guests making sure everyone was having a great time. In between hugs and kisses I sat her down for a moment to get the scoop and make her aquaintance formerly. She was a pleasure to speak with an her personality sparkled. She introduced me to a couple of friends of her who had come up from Philadelphia and were aspiring models, Imani and Stevie . I gave them a card and sent them an email, giving them a shot @ finding a place amongst the pages of B.M.B.S., we shall see. Overall it was a great night in a hot venue surrounded by fun people. The dance floor got a little crazy.. Check the video for that, it can't be put into words. If you missed out, Moya will be hosting another Wii party Thursday, April 9th @ Hova's 40/40 Club in NYC. It's gonna be an experience so come on out and unwind. For all those interested, yearly membership @ Soho House starts @ $2k for the year and amenties include rooftop pool, private rooms and membership discounts and priviliges. For more info go to www.sohohouseny.com.

America Ferrera Graces Gotham Magazine

America @ Pranna NYC Gotham Magazine

When I go out with my brother, DJ Shogun, we tend to fall into circles that have us rubbing elbows with the industry elite from music to fashion and film. Today was no exception. After finishing up with aspiring model/singer Ms. Shy Hips @ an uptown recording studio we jetted downtown so my brother could meet with Nicole Purcell, President of Rock Media and Entertainment. She told him to meet her @ 79 Madison Ave. for cocktails and to discuss some business.

Little did we know that the address was home to Pranna, an upscale and very sophisticated bar and restaurant and the venue for tonites event which was hosted by Gotham Magazine and Peace Games and in honor of America Ferrera, star of ABC's "Ugly Betty". Americana Luxury Vodka provided the libations and DJ Clockwork supplied the tunes while the media snapped away at the nights attendees.

Cast members Tony Plana, Vanessa Williams and Daniel Eric Gold who plays Matt, Betty's newest love interest mingled with the crowd. The event was well attended as I stood elbow to elbow with Tony Plana for quite some time as I attempted to make my way to the bar... so close, yet so far. The event was scheduled to start @ 8pm and was packed by 9. We were amongst the first to arrive and quickly found ourselves basking in the moments not so long ago when we were afforded our personal space. Nicole arrived with Kristin Abele, Account Executive for Rock Media and Entertainment and we were introduced and exchanged cards. Shortly after the cast started to arrive as well as many of the invited guest. While the door was never jammed packed the flow was steady. Executives of all types mingled and chatted as waiters and waitresses weaved through the crowd with creative appetizers that wet their palettes. I ran into Ra-Fael Blanco who escorted Dawn from Danity Kane and cleared a path for her as she moved away from the media area.
Ms. Ferrera finally arrived and the lights flashed like Times Square. Wearing a simple yet flattering mono tone dress, America looked elegant which is a far cry from the boisterous ensembles that she dons as the loveable but nonfashionable Betty Suarez. As I found an outlet in the rear of the venue to juice my camera Ms. Ferrara was introduced and began to speak. She thanked everyone for their support, the host for the event, Gotham Magazine which she graces the cover of and Peace and Games, a cause that was dear to her heart. Check the video footage for more about it. Eric Dawson started Peace Games at the age of 18 while attending Harvard University. The night was a smashing success and as usual I was pleasantly surprised to walk into such a great event. For more stay tuned to and logged into www.bmbsfamily.com and B.M.B.S. Family TV.

MIMS "Guilt" Release Party @ Citrine NYC

Tuesday is always a highly anticipated day of week for those that dare to live and breathe in the music industry. It is the official day that albums are released and today the focus of feverent anticipation was MIMS' sophomore album "Guilt". The official release party was held at Citrine and was organized by GoodGirl PR. With an open bar provided by Rhythm liqueurs and vibe set by DJ Shogun (HeadShell Ent.), it was sure to be a night filled with good times.

The V.I.P. was tight as usual but everyone made the best of it and the free drinks helped to keep conversations flowing. Impromptu dance contest kept poppin up, literally, as Shogun put everyone in a dancing mode spinning back to back hits. "Move(If You Wanna)", a lead single was in rotation ever so often until the Man of The Hour showed.

MIMS arrived casual and cool, humbly accepting the well wishes of his fans. The line outside was crazy and unfortunately the people I saw when I went to the door never got in. Over 400 people rsvp'd for a venue that could only hold about 300. Yet, the night went without incident and it was indeed a success. MIMS personalized the experience by performing a medley of his new material, over half of which was produced by his in-house team THE INTERNS on the fly as DJ Shogun and Kev Lawrence (Thermal Soundwaves, Video Music Box) vibed with him. Be sure to check out "On & On", "Love Rollercoaster" and "Making Money" to name a few.

MIMS also introduced Canadian born emcee Obi and his single "Ms. Good Cookie". It's hot so make sure to listen out for it. DJ Alamo, Sosh B., Steve "Raze" (www.allHIPHOP.com) was in the house as well as executives and upcoming artists from Capitol Records. The event was from 7pm to 11pm and most attendees danced the whole time. Good music is hard to come by these days but if you pick up MIMS you'll feel "Guilt" free. Until next time. Red.71

The Musical Mind of a Genius... Ryan Leslie

The Musical Mind of a Genius... Ryan Leslie

With the release of his long anticipated self titled LP, Ryan Leslie is finally reaping the benefits of a long journey. With all the hits that he has produced for others, it is finally time for this star to shine alone. This boy genius, graduating from Harvard University at the age of 19, also took an interest in music as well as academic studies. After years in the background as a producer, Ryan took a shot at being a singer in late 2004. Leslie signed a recording contract with Universal Records when he was an unknown artist. In 2003, he began recording his debut album, to be entitled Just Right. He released two singles off the album, "The Way That U Move Girl" and "Used 2 Be" featuring rapper Fabolous, but the songs did not chart. Due to the singles performing poorly in the U.S., the album was shelved indefinitely. With all the work he has put in over the years it's hard to believe that Mr. Leslie could be overwhelmed at the site of his poster plastered on the streets of Harlem.
However, after speaking with him I realised what a humble soul he is. I reached out to a few sources before I got a contact for Rich Dollars, Ryan's manager, and set up a chance for a quick interview after the 9pm R. Les show at S.O.B.'s. The March 11th show was sold out with barely room to move in the venue that serves as a landmark stop for artists of all genres. The audience was in for quite a show and from the crowd when I arrived it appeared they knew it too. On a day that had been drizzled with rain, night fell and the air was crisp, dry and electric.

Although I got there a few minutes early so did everybody else and I stepped in and could move no further. I soon got settled in and waited for the show to start. From beginning to end Mr. Leslie brought the type of energy that puts many of his peers to shame. Unlike many in his genre who have tried to move a crowd Ryan put the "show" in showmanship. R&B songstress Jazmine Sullivan was in the house as well as Usher who came on stage for an impromptu performance towards the end of the show. Accompanied by a live band, R. Les commanded the stage like a veteran and keep the crowd wanting more. His performance was a sweat drenched two hour show of hits. I had already purchased his album and was quite familiar with his work as was most of the crowd who sang along, tune after tune. Overall, its was a great night and a remarkable performance. Ryan Leslie genuinely looked as if he loved every moment of his performance as much as the audience did. If you ever wondered if his show would be worth seeing then I'll confirm it now, you don't want to miss it. For more information you can check out Ryan at his official website www.ryanleslie.com.

Ryan Leslie speaks of the need for a reformed music industry and the power and necessity of education. Here's the scoop:

Usher joins Ryan for an impromptu performance. Here's a few clips.

Actor, Model and a Gentlemen

Actor, Model and a Gentlemen

Kalon Jackson made his pilgrimage to New York 4 years ago. He first settled in Mount Vernon but has been a Brooklyn native for the last 3 yrs. Raised by single mom who kept him close, she instilled values in him that he believes in today, helping others. A strong religious foundation first helped when dealing with the industry's shader side.When I asked about the differences between his home in South Carolina and his current residence Kalon responded by saying, " NY will make you stronger. I've slept on trains @ one point , even asked for money but I stayed on my grind. It was harder to get help from others up here (New York) which is different from the south. Help thy neighbor was definitely part of southern living." Mr. Jackson went to the military, the Navy, straight out of high school which took him from Australia to Dubai. Travelling was an eye-opener for him @ such a young age and it made him want to show that to all those he knew. "Travel means a lot to me. Anyone that knows me will tell you I will spend my last $100 on travel."


Kalon came to NY to model and worked with P. Diddy for Sean John amongst others, it was working for him. "A lot of people told me I should branch out. "All My Children" was my 1st acting gig had a small role in "The Brave One" starring Jodie Foster. From those small roles I kept networking. I just finished a supporting role in Spike Lee's film "Miracle at Saint Anna" and am currently looking to executive produce a few projects." Starting October 10th on HBO you can catch him on "Sex Chronicles" based on a book by author Zain. I asked him how he would like to use his stardom to better the world he lived in and his answer came quickly. "From community centers to seminars, I'd like to educate the youth who are interested in modelling or acting. Don't have another person judge your beauty. I want to be able to give back however I can. Bring healthy looking models back to the forefront and rid the industry of the skinny model image. I've always had love for Queen Latifah as a big beautiful woman. I would like to bring God to the forefront also an let people know that he is necessary." Words to grow on.

As usual. the B.M.B.S. Family strives to bring our readers the brightest stars and the latest news. To check out Kalon in the future check him out at www.myspace.com/kalonjackson. This has been Red.71 reporting, keep my ear to the street and bringing you the exclusive. Stay Beautiful Mind Body & Soul. The B.M.B.S. Family.

Jalene Mojica... A Sweet Serenade

I arrived on time after braving NYC traffic and congestion. Although I left in ample time I got stuck on the 59th Street Bridge for half an hour, typical. Thanks to industry standards the show started late and I didn't miss a beat. The event was hosted by Malik Brooks and turned out to be a house full of talent in all shapes and sizes. I was taken aback by the ambiance at first but it turned out to be the perfect setting. Jalene's segment started off a bit rocky due to technical difficulties. Once the mic was adjusted and her live guitarist toned down his amp we were off. Ms. Mojica chose an Alicia Keys selection to start off. Dressed in black tights, tall black leather boots made for walking' and short jacket Jalene looked and sounded like the star she is. Her second selection was an original selection "Let's Get Down Tonite" produced by T&J Sidekicks, that got the crowd waving their arms and grooving to her vocal stylings. Before long the audience was participating and clapping for more. There was an overwhelming request for an encore but she chose to bless the crowd with an accapella that moved them. I had the opportunity to catch up with her after the performance, after waiting for her to thank her supporters and family and there was a line. With such strong support she is well equipped to pursue her dreams. Since life isn't always a bowl of cherries, I asked her what, if anything, ticked her off about the industry? "Bullshit artist. Be about your business." Straight and to the point.

Jalene was born and raised in the South Bronx and has been singing since six. "I'm inspired by family and friends who support me and see my dream for me daily even when I don't. I wrote my first song in my living room about 2 and half years ago." She is currently working on a 5 song demo as well material for a possible production deal. Nate Timmerman is her engineer, guitarist, and does vocal production. "The greatest obstacle I've had to face has nothing to do with myself or my team. I think the way the industry works now it creates more work for the artist with the extinction of a&rs there is no more artist development. I'm blessed to have family that understands that I can't always be there all the time but they show up for me always. My family empowers me." She firmly believes that we are all given a passion for a reason. Its not an accident. God has a plan. "It hurts my soul to know that there is so much poverty in this world, namely third world countries. I would like to shed light on some of the lesser known evils that affects poorer and less privileged people."

What are Jalene's plans for the future? "I will graduate with a masters in English in may 2009 and am looking at a few scripts as I try my hand @ acting. Long Island University where I pledged Sigma Iota Alpha as an undergraduate, which a latina based sorority that embraces all races."

With all that lies before her, Jalene has a long road ahead of her but it won't be a dark one. She has a light that will touch everyone she comes across and we, the B.M.B.S. Family wish her all the success. Until then stay Beautiful Mind Body & Soul.