HAPPY BLACK HISTORY FROM GO BANG! MAGAZINE
Author: GO BANG MAG
Photo courtesy of Chief Tamba Taylor
“US-Based Fashion Designer Carrying On The ‘Blueprint’ of Liberia`s Traditional Chief Donates Precious Gifts To The National Museum”
Reprinted by permission: Originally by Liberian Reporter, Mark B. Newa
Photos courtesy of Smart News Liberia & Chief Tamba Taylor
A young spectacular dancer presents a small-sized drum to Chief Tamba Taylor as the audience looks on.
A US-based fashion designer has identified with the people of Liberia sharing his dream with Lofa County traditional chief, a title that was conferred onto him years ago.
Making a statement at the Blueprint, a souvenir program marking the celebration of the legacy of Chief Tamba Taylor in Monrovia, Chief Dr. Quinton ‘Tamba Taylor’ de`Alexander disclosed that his organization seeks to address some of the challenges facing youth in Liberia. He said his organization, We Dream in Color Foundation, is empowering young Liberians to become entrepreneurs and employers for themselves and others. “The focus of our foundation is empowering the youth to become entrepreneurs. Never dream small, when you dream big, you`ll overcome,” the traditional chief said.
The name Tamba Taylor was conferred onto him in December 2020 on the Providence Island by Liberian Culture Ambassador Julie Endee, Executive Director of the Crusaders for Peace.
During the occasion, that marked the rebirth of Liberia, Dr. de`Alexander chose to give the traditional costume, a short male gown draped in Liberia`s three national colors, back to the country in remembrance of the legacy paid to him, which he referred to as the ‘2020 Blueprint’.
With 30 years of working in the fabric industry, Dr. Quinton Chief Tamba Taylor de`Alexander`s collection, using crystal jewels, has designed clothing for different celebrities in the United States of America and others around the world.
In a comment, Fahn Lepolu, clan chief of Woryan clan in Margibi County encouraged Liberians to work with the people of Margibi to make the clan color stand. “Tradition is very powerful. When you are educated, do not forget about your tradition. Do not be afraid of your home. Nowhere is like home,” the clan chief cautioned.
Chief Tamba Taylor (center in blue apparel) flanked by a cross section of chiefs and elders Zoebanjay drummers.
During the Blueprint, a colorful occasion backed by cultural display from the group Ballet Zoebanjay, Chief Tamba Taylor de`Alexander returned the traditional gown given him by the Crusaders for Peace with a well crystal designed dress for celebrity, to be displayed as relics in the Liberia National Museum.
Ballet Zoebanjay posed with spectacular kid dancers after displaying different dancing styles before the audience as Chief Taylor displayed high in the sky the small Liberian drum. In a few lines from his social media account, Quinton said one early Saturday morning. “I find myself thinking of ways to empower the less fortunate, not in Liberia, but the less fortunate throughout the world. I also find myself thinking of ways to unify all black people to understand the power of unity and support. If we learned to join forces to work together effectively, without jealousy, hate and disrespect within our own race and communities.”
Also commenting, Diamond George Kamu, disclosed that the Blueprint program was intended to display the legacy of this very great man to share in celebrating the life`s achievement of a multi-award-winning self-taught philanthropist, humanitarian and executive producer. “He has over 50 years of experience as a designer and is famously known for drama dresses, dresses designed to display and say so much that every head must turn to admire the incredible work of art,” Mr. Kamu recalled.
Kamu added that among other achievements, Dr. de`Alexander has received numerous local and national awards, including the Fred Hampton Image Award, and the 2011 Mahogany Foundation Image Award for Excellence in costume design.
Ballet Zoebanjay posed with spectacular kid dancers after displaying different dancing styles before the audience as Chief Taylor displayed high in the sky the small Liberian drum.
Mr. Kamu told the audience that Dr. de`Alexander has devoted his entire professional life to service, serving the needy and poor beyond borders. “We`ve come to celebrate the legacy of an extraordinary man, a fighter, a statesman, a patriot who embodied so much that is best for Liberia.”
Traditional overspread shirt colored red, white and blue, and a crystallized dress for celebrities designed by Chief Tamba Taylor were added to the antiques in the museum.
Back in 2020, the ‘We Dream in Color Foundation’ bestowed the Nelson Mandela Freedom Award to Bill Rogers. This award is given to individuals who have immensely contributed to the positive growth of their communities, societies, and the global community despite all of the difficulties and challenges.
“Chief Taylor had vowed,” George Kamu said, “To change the perception of the image and reputation plastered throughout social media platforms.’ He added that upon his return to the USA, Quinton went straight to work. “Not only enriched with Liberia`s history and becoming one with Paramount Chief Tamba Taylor`s legacy, he began gathering various educational and personal profiles to initiate the upliftment and empowerment of the most overlooked, less fortunate children, and families.”
In the last two years, the Chief delivered more that 50 barrels of food items, school and educational supplies, new clothing, farm supplies, and established a playground in memory of Chief Tamba Taylor. Including supplies to fight COVID, the Chief has also provided school fees and sponsored trips for several less fortunate students to visit the Liberia National Museum.
Following that, Quinton established the Chief Tamba Taylor support group for athletes feeling unheard and seen. Beneficiaries were Belenie Christian Foundation School System, Bill Rogers Youth Foundation, the People of Woryan Town, Women for Positive Actions, Quality Foundation Daycare and Educational Center, Jazhet School and Foundation, the School for Orphans and Deaf Ministry, Wubu Foundation for Deaf Children Development International, Liberia Crusaders for Peace, Armah and Lydia Lansannah Foundation, Dorcas Circle Effort Baptist Church, New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church, and the Liberia National Museum.
Diamond recalled, “When you dream big in colors, nothing can stop you from reaching the unreachable.” “I realize how profound and amazing it was that a man of his status could had accepted a challenge to brace the heat of the COVID, the financial implications that the trip had on him, and the negatives that the internet portrayed about Africa, especially Liberia,” Mr. Kamu said.
The program was attended by town folks from Woryan Town in Margibi County and representatives from beneficiary organizations, officials of the Liberian National Museum, local media, and the traditional ballet group.
The Legacy of Chief Tamba Taylor. The Boy Who Wasn’t Afraid To Dream BIG and DREAM IN COLOR!
Chief Dr. Quinton Tamba Taylor de’ Alexander Contact Information
Website: www.wedreamincolor.org
Facebook: @Quinton de’ Alexander
Instagram: @quinton_dealexander
Twitter: @AlexanderQuinton
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
Photo courtesy of FACEBOOK
These videos were recorded on the evening of January 7, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee.
Video 1 (11:04 mins.) is a police-issued body-worn camera near the intersection of Raines and Ross Rd. Videos 2, 3, and 4 are video footage at the second location, a residential neighborhood.
Video 2 (31:04 mins.) is from a pole camera and contains no audio.
Videos 3 (6:05 mins.) and 4 (19:17 mins.) are police-issued body-worn camera videos.
These videos have been redacted pursuant to T.C.A. § 10-7-501, et. seq.
WARNING: The video contains graphic content and language. Viewer discretion is advised.
CLICK HERE: https://vimeo.com/CityofMemphis
Video courtesy of : City of Memphis
Photo courtesy of ABC NEWS
A timeline of the investigations into Tyre Nichols’ death after a traffic stop and arrest by Memphis police
January 7 – A traffic stop with fatal consequences
On January 7 at approximately 8:30 p.m., officers pulled over a vehicle for suspected reckless driving, according to a statement from Memphis police.
“A confrontation occurred” between officers and the vehicle’s driver – later identified as Nichols – who then fled on foot, according to Memphis police. Officers apprehended him and “another confrontation occurred,” resulting in Nichols’ arrest, police said.
An ambulance was called to the scene of the arrest after Nichols complained of shortness of breath, police said, and he was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
On January 10, three days after the stop, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation announced Nichols had died due to injuries sustained in the “use-of-force incident with officers,” according to a statement.
January 15 – Police provide update on investigation
Following the traffic stop, the officers involved were relieved of duty – a standard departmental procedure while an investigation into their use of force began, Memphis police said. The TBI and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office were also enlisted to investigate.
Preliminary findings indicated the serious nature of the officers’ conduct during the stop, police said.
“After reviewing various sources of information involving this incident, I have found that it is necessary to take immediate and appropriate action,” Chief Davis said in a statement released January 15. “Today, the department is serving notice to the officers involved of the impending administrative actions.”
The department needed to follow a required procedural process before disciplining or terminating government civil servant employees, the statement added.
In the days after Nichols’ death, his family’s attorney Ben Crump repeatedly voiced their desire for the release of body camera and surveillance footage of the traffic stop.
“This kind of in-custody death destroys community trust if agencies are not swiftly transparent,” Crump said in a statement.
January 18 – Federal investigation declared
On January 18, the Department of Justice said a civil rights investigation has been opened into the death of Nichols.
“Last week, Tyre Nichols tragically died, a few days after he was involved in an incident where Memphis Police Department officers used force during his arrest,” Kevin G. Ritz, US Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, said in a statement.
Acknowledging the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s ongoing efforts, the US Attorney’s office “in coordination with the FBI Memphis Field Office and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, has opened a civil rights investigation,” Ritz said, declining to provide further details.
January 20 – Officers named and fired
The Memphis Police Department has terminated five police officers in connection with the death of Tyre Nichols. Top: Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III. Bottom: Desmond Mills, Jr., Justin Smith
After its internal investigation, Memphis police identified and fired five officers involved in the traffic stop due to their violation of multiple department policies.
Officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III, Desmond Mills, Jr., and Justin Smith were terminated for failing in their “excessive use of force, duty to intervene, and duty to render aid,” the department said in a statement.
“The egregious nature of this incident is not a reflection of the good work our officers perform, with integrity every day,” Davis said.
A statement from the Memphis Police Association, the union representing the officers, declined to comment on the terminations beyond saying that the city of Memphis and Nichols’ family “deserve to know the complete account of the events leading up to his death and what may have contributed to it.”
Nichols family attorneys Crump and Antonio Romanucci called the firing of the five officers “the first step towards achieving justice for Tyre and his family.”
Two Memphis Fire Department employees who were part of Nichols’ “initial patient care” were relieved of duty “while an internal investigation is being conducted,” department Public Information Officer Qwanesha Ward told CNN’s Nadia Romero.
January 23 – Family views police video
After meeting with officials to watch the unreleased police video of the arrest, Nichols’ family and their attorneys described their horror at what they saw.
“He was defenseless the entire time. He was a human piñata for those police officers. It was an unadulterated, unabashed, nonstop beating of this young boy for three minutes. That is what we saw in that video,” Romanucci said. “Not only was it violent, it was savage.”
“What I saw on the video today was horrific,” Rodney Wells, Nichols’ stepfather, said Monday. “No father, mother should have to witness what I saw today.”
Crump described the video as “appalling,” “deplorable” and “heinous.” He said RowVaughn Wells, Nichols’ mother, was unable to get through viewing the first minute of the footage after hearing Nichols ask, “What did I do?” At the end of the footage, Nichols can be heard calling for his mother three times, the attorney said.
According to preliminary results of an autopsy commissioned by attorneys for his family, Nichols suffered “extensive bleeding caused by a severe beating.” CNN has requested a copy of the autopsy, which Crump said will be available when the full report is ready.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy told CNN on Tuesday his office was ensuring all necessary interviews with those involved had been conducted before the footage’s release.
“A lot of the people’s questions about what exactly happened will, of course, be answered once people see the video,” Mulroy said, noting he believes the city will release enough footage to show the “entirety of the incident, from the very beginning to the very end.”
January 26 – Officers charged
A grand jury indicted the five officers fired by Memphis police on several charges, according to the county’s district attorney.
Martin III, Smith, Bean, Haley and Mills, Jr. were each charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, two charges of aggravated kidnapping, two charges of official misconduct and one charge of official oppression, according to both Shelby County criminal court and Shelby County jail records.
“While each of the five individuals played a different role in the incident in question, the actions of all of them resulted in the death of Tyre Nichols, and they are all responsible,” Mulroy said during a news conference.
All five former officers reported to Shelby County Jail on Thursday, with four bonding out by early Friday morning, jail records showed.
January 27 – Video Released
The city of Memphis released police body camera and surveillance video showing the traffic stop and violent police confrontation that led to the death of Tyre Nichols.
The video contains a little over an hour of footage of Tyre Nichols’ deadly encounter with police, and includes three body camera videos and a video showing an overhead view.
Photo courtesy of AOL
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
Photo courtesy of Facebook
Wednesday, January 25, 2023 was the day in Chicago, IL for a celebration of The Chosen Few Djs’ Terry Hunter being nominated for a Grammy Award, for the remix of Beyonce’s hit single “Break My Soul.” In addition to Terry Hunter being nominated, poet J. Ivy was also nominated for a Grammy Award and was celebrated as well.
Photo courtesy of GO BANG! Magazine
The Grammy celebration was held at The Loft, located at 2251 N. Lincoln Avenue and brought out ALL of Chicago House Royalty, including House legend Senior Robert Williams, Singer/Songwriter Chantay Savage, Singer Chuck “ThaVoice” Roberts (“In the Beginning There Was Jack….”), Singer/Songwriter Jon Pierce, legendary DJ/Producer/The Lodge club owner Craig Loftis, DJ/Producer Stacy Kidd, DJ/Producer Steve Miggedy Maestro, DJ/Producer Dee Jay Alicia, and DJ/Promoter Mz. Nicki Devine, to name a few. All were there to congratulate and celebrate both, before they head out to Los Angeles for the big show! 
Pierre A. Evans w/Chuck Roberts Craig Loftis Pierre A. Evans w/Stacy Kidd Donald Burns & Afrika Porter
Photos courtesy of GO BANG! Magazine
Dani Deahl, President and Mark Hubbard, Former President of The Chicago Chapter of the Grammys hosted the event.
Photos courtesy of Facebook
The turntables were manned and BEAT by Terry Hunter, Wayne Williams, Julius “The Mad Thinker” and Emmaculate DJ.
Terry Hunter
Photo courtesy of Facebook/Kellie Croasdell Hayles
The Chosen Few DJs founder Wayne Williams
Photo courtesy of Facebook/Arlis Ball
Julius “The Mad Thinker”
Photo courtesy of Facebook/Zeke Torres
DJ EMMACULATE
Photo courtesy of Facebook/Emmaculate
During the event, Terry played his Grammy nominated remix of Beyonce’s “Break My Soul” and J. Ivy blessed the crowd with a soul stirring poem and ALL of the Chicago artists and DJs that were in attendance all joined in on stage for a massive and historic Chicago Artist photo shoot with the Grammy reps and nominees. It was quite a night to remember!
Join GO BANG! Magazine and the entire Chicago House music community in congratulating and wishing Terry Hunter and J. Ivy luck in winning their Grammy awards!
They’re already winners, just by being NOMINATED!!!
TERRY HUNTER J. IVY
GO BANG fellas!
GO BANG!!!!
LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
“Tori “SHO NUFF” Nelson is a 13-time, four-weight division Boxing World Champion. Her success has been inspiring. With fans and supporters from all over the world, Tori has a magnetic personality that is felt by all who meet her. In fact, Tori was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in October of 2022, during a formal televised ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada.
As a humble woman who only stands 5’6, she may very well be small in stature, but her heart and passion are more than mighty. Nelson put her blood, sweat and tears into her journey as a boxer. She says, “If you want to be the best, you’ve got to fight the best. That’s all there is to it.”
Her World Championship boxing titles lend to her overall authenticity as an athlete with a heart of gold and the mental capacity that enabled her to persevere through all that life has thrown at her. She continues to be a woman who completely understands the benefits that come with following through with her dreams and goals until they are accomplished.
In being a single mother with two kids and holding down three jobs, Tori Nelson never fell victim to the many excuses she could have given herself not to go to the gym. Instead, she made it a top priority with the understanding that to be mentally fit and prepared in life, one must also be physically fit with a strong mind.
Giving back to other women in her community who want to build a healthy body and mind is important to her. She leads by example and plans to open a gym that women with all body types can use. She will be reinforcing the importance of the mind and body connection that plays a powerful role in creating and maintaining measurable changes. It takes time to get in shape and adopt an attitude of excellence, and Tori is dedicated to help others reach their goals and beyond. She feels that if women are given the right environment with the right motivation, anything is possible. Women truly run the world and she is going to let every woman who steps foot into her gym know that they are valued, appreciated and worthy of success.
GO BANG! Magazine: Where were you born and raised?
Tori Nelson: Chase City, VA, not far from the North Carolina border.
GO BANG! Magazine: How did you first get involved in boxing?
Tori Nelson: I wanted to lose weight and my ex said boxing worked everything.
Photo courtesy of Imagenes Espanoles
GO BANG! Magazine: When and why did you decide to pursue boxing professionally?
Tori Nelson: I had won Golden Gloves for a few years and my coach was like, “You can do one of two things…quit or go pro.” So, I chose pro because I loved it!
GO BANG! Magazine: What were some of the hurdles and discouragements that you experienced being a female in the world of boxing?
Tori Nelson: They didn’t want female boxers, so it was hard getting on cards. Also, I didn’t get the same pay or treatment as the guys until I started showing them that I was just as good as the men, and I could sell tickets as good as them also.
Photo courtesy of IMDb
GO BANG! Magazine: To follow up on that, how did you cope with those situations?
Tori Nelson: I outsold men in ticket sells and gave a good show when I fought.
GO BANG! Magazine: Who were some of your boxing inspirations?
Tori Nelson: Ann Wolfe is my favorite female fighter. Joe Frazier and Mike Tyson are my favorite males.
Photo courtesy of Round-by-Round-Boxing
GO BANG! Magazine: Some people think it would be torture to voluntarily get in the ring with someone and get hit repeatedly, round after round. Please explain to our readers, The Bangers, why and how you did it.
Tori Nelson: LOL! The object is to not get hit, but to do the hitting!!! LOL, I loved it! I could fight and get my frustration out without paying a therapist and beat somebody up and don’t have to pay court fees or go to jail but, get paid for it. If you ask me, I had the best job ever. LOL
GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get the name Tori “SHO NUFF” Nelson and how would you describe yourself to someone that may not be familiar with you?
Tori Nelson: I got the name from my coach, and he got it from the movie “The Last Dragon.” LOL
Also, I’m a God-fearing woman with two kids that will do anything for anyone but won’t put up with nothing or nobody that tries to interrupt my peace. I like to say I’m saved but don’t mind laying hands on you.
Photo courtesy of ESPN
GO BANG! Magazine: Congratulations are in order for you achieving 13-time, four-weight division World Championship boxing status. Since then, you have retired. When did you retire and what do you miss most and least about boxing?
Tori Nelson: Thank you so much! I retired in 2020. What I miss most are my teammates and training. We would have so much fun. What I don’t miss is the wait time in the back before the fight and the walkout. My anxiety would be to the roof.
GO BANG! Magazine: You were recently inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in October of 2022, just last year. How did it feel to be inducted?
Tori Nelson: Yes, by God’s grace!!! It felt amazing. It was an amazing reward to show my kids. Also, all those holidays we missed with our family, those late nights traveling to and from different gyms, and not eating everything we wanted WAS NOT in vain. We did it! We will always be remembered!!!
Photo courtesy of Facebook
GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to a young female that has an interest in pursuing boxing?
Tori Nelson: First, make sure you can not only give a punch, but can take one as well. Then I would so GO for it! Don’t let anyone tell you what you cannot do. Just because it hasn’t been done or they haven’t seen it done, doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Also no one knows your calling. Just go for it and be the best you can be and NEVER give up!
GO BANG! Magazine: There a quite a few up-and-coming female boxers coming down the pike. Who are some of the ones we should be on the lookout for and why?
Tori Nelson: You know I’m really not supposed to watch boxing because my kids say we are done with it, but I sneak and watch sometimes. LOL Destiny Day-Owens and Mary McGee are two that I see coming and doing good. Also the young lady, her last name is Jones (Oshae), she’s good also.
GO BANG! Magazine: Since retiring from boxing, you’re pursuing other area of interest, including motherhood, motivational speaking, and cover modeling. How has this new chapter in your life been going?
Tori Nelson: YESSSSSS!!!!! Amazing!!! I miss boxing, but I get to enjoy my kids now even though they are grown. But its ok. We still have fun and I love spending time with my family more. I love going and speaking and motivating others, and the modeling is just a plus. LOL
GO BANG! Magazine: What message do you try to convey to your audience when you have your motivational speaking events?
Tori Nelson: Most of the time it’s “don’t let anyone tell you want you can’t do!” Also, “your past is just that. your past. Everyone has one.” “If you did bad then, now is your time to change and do better.” Lastly, I sometimes tell how God changed my life in my 20’s, because my past was not good, but it helped me to become who I am today.
GO BANG! Magazine: It seems to be important to you to teach and promote self-empowerment, especially in women. Why is that important to you?
Tori Nelson: Because we as women are always lifting, empowering, or even taking care of others and we forget about our own selves. Therefore, we forget what we can really do. Our talents and gifts need to be seen just as much, if not more, than the men’s.
GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, please finish this sentence. “Tori Nelson is………..
Tori Nelson: Blessed by the BEST!!!!
GO BANG! Magazine: Well Tori, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now officially been BANGED!!! GO BANG!
SUBSCRIBE to her YOUTUBE Channel https://www.youtube.com/TheUSAchamp
Please CHECK OUT these links to learn more:
https://www.voanews.com/a/6447650.html
https://g.co/kgs/AePnMN
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/magazine/wp/2019/01/23/feature/this-42-year-old-boxer-has-a-job-at-ihop-two-kids-and-11-titles-she-isnt-finished-yet/
LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!!
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia
IN HONOR OF FRANKIE’S 68TH BIRTHDAY, I AM REPRINTING A TRIBUTE I PENNED FOR FRANKIE ON 3/31/14, THE DAY OF HIS PASSING….
FRANKIE KNUCKLES: “THE GODFATHER OF HOUSE”
The Man; The Music; The Memories
(January 18, 1955 – March 31, 2014)
First of all, I want Frankie’s family and loved ones to know that the WORLD sends our deepest, heartfelt condolences to all of you and that you have the entire planet praying for your healing.
The “House” community from all over the world are mourning the loss of our Godfather. Chicagoans in particular are devastated by the loss of one of our own. I am still in shock after hearing late Monday night of his death. Reports say that he died from complications related to diabetes. Knuckles had developed Type II diabetes in the mid-2000’s. Health problems had slowed him down in recent years – a bone disease stemming from a 2000 injury and intensified by diabetes, which resulted in the amputation of his foot in 2008. He still continued popping up at clubs and festivals.
A Bronx native, he was born Francis Nicholls aka Frankie Warren Knuckles, Jr. He began working as a DJ, playing soul, disco and R&B at The Continental Baths with childhood friend and fellow DJ Larry Levan and forged a career as a DJ in New York in the late 1970’s. He then moved from New York City to Chicago. In 1977, he was invited to move to Chicago and be the Resident DJ at a new club, The Warehouse.
It was here in Chicago, at the Warehouse, that he put house music on the map, fusing disco and its soul foundation with textures from rock and European synth music. No one can deny that house music came from Knuckles. There would be no Knuckles in Chicago though, had it not been for one man, Mr. Robert Williams.
Robert Williams, you know him, the older dude at the parties with the glasses on. He is responsible for bringing us two of the most influential people and after-hour clubs in music history. He introduced us to DJ legends Ron Hardy and The Music Box; and Frankie Knuckles and The Warehouse (where the term “House” is derived). He was born in Queens, NY but in 1975 came to Chicago and wanted to liven up Chicago’s dreadful party scene. “When I came here, there was just absolutely nothing going on. I returned to New York and told my buddies that Chicago was dreadful. They said ‘…give parties in Chicago like we do in New York!’” Like the saying goes…the rest is history.
In 1976, The Warehouse was opened and was the first after-hours club in Chicago. “My parties start at 12 midnight Saturday and ended 12 noon Sunday, sometimes midnight Sunday, depending on how I felt,” Frankie once said. It has had several addresses including 116 S. Clinton, 1400 S. Michigan, 555 W. Adams and the infamous 206 S. Jefferson. Surprisingly, Robert himself was DJ’ing at The Warehouse in the early days. In 1983, Robert and Frankie went their separate ways and Robert opened up The Music Box with Ron Hardy as the DJ and Frankie opened The Power Plant. The Power Plant had its last party and shut its doors in 1986.
When the Power Plant closed, Frankie played for four months at Delirium in the United Kingdom. He also was the featured resident DJ at The World, and had numerous other residencies. He had a stint in New York, where he continued to immerse himself in producing, remixing and recording.
Frankie bought his first drum machine from Derrick May, who regularly made trips from Detroit to Chicago to see Knuckles at The Warehouse. He also had a musical partnership with Chicago artist Byron Walford aka Jamie Principle and helped put “Your Love” and “Baby Wants to Ride” out on vinyl after these tunes had been regulars on his reel-to-reel player at the Warehouse for a year.
Soon after that, producer Chip E. took Frankie under his wings and produced his first of many recordings, “You Can’t Hide”, featuring vocalist Ricky Dillard. Then came more production work, including Jamie Principle’s “Baby Wants to Ride”, and later “Tears” with Robert Owens (of Fingers, Inc. {Larry Heard})
His debut album “Beyond the Mix (1991), released on Virgin Records, contained his biggest hit to date, “The Whistle Song.” Eight thousand copies of the album had sold by 2004. Frankie Knuckles continued to work as a remixer through the 1990’s and into the next decade, reworking tracks from Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Diana Ross, Eternal and Toni Braxton. In 1995, he released his second album titled “Welcome to the Real World” and by 2004, 13,000 copies had sold. In 2004, he released a 13-track album of original material titled “A New Reality,” which was critically well received. More recently, Frankie was regularly on the global club and festive circuit; converting kids who’d never heard of The Warehouse.
Many local and world-famous DJs got their starts from Frankie letting them DJ at his clubs. Here are few house testimonies from legendary, as well as average, everyday people:
Steve “Silk” Hurley (4-time Grammy nominated Producer/Remix Artist/DJ/ Entrepreneur):
“As I look up to you in heaven, I can honestly say that’s what I’ve always done. Looked up to you…as a big brother.
Who else but a big brother would welcome a young kid with open arms, as he brings his demos on “Radio Shack” Reel To Reel Tapes to the Powerplant…hot off the press from his bedroom studio in 1984 and 1985? And not only plays it once, but twice, to break it to his crowd.
Who else but a big brother would BUY that same kid’s records, even while he is at a peak of his own career, and play that record until the Vinyl wears out?
And who else but a big brother would support that kid, and countless other producers, regardless of what rung they are on in the “ladder of success”, all for the sake of inspiring the world with what he believes is great music?
As that ‘kid”, I would like to thank you for being a big brother to me in music. And I know that I speak for all of Chicago and the rest of the world when I say they we will miss you, and we will find ourselves looking up to you in heaven when we hear great music.
We Love you Frankie”
Irwin Larry “Chip E.” Eberhart II (Record Producer/DJ):
“I think of death differently than a lot of people. I realize that it’s part of everyone’s life. I’m never surprised when someone dies. Sad that I didn’t get to say goodbye, but usually happy for them…they don’t have any more worries. Life is hard work. I don’t run towards death or run away from it. I simply try to do the best I can for myself, family and friends while I’m above ground. I’ve already told those close to me that I want my passing ceremony to be a celebration with loud music and people enjoying themselves as they remember me. I don’t want to make people sad, not even in death. Frankie lived much longer than many of his close friends. He did good work on Earth, and will be remembered forever. In a way, he’s become immortal. I’m sure that with his success came much pain and suffering. I’m sure that he is at peace.”
Farley “Jackmaster” Funk (Record Producer/DJ):
“Frankie was an absolutely great guy to those who needed encouragement in the business and he stuck to his guns about the music, therefore becoming a solid foundation for the sound of music he loved.”
Jesse Saunders (DJ, music and film Producer/Remix Artist/Promoter/Entrepreneur):
“Without Frankie, there is no foundation…What Ronnie (Hardy), myself, Vince Lawrence, my brother Wayne Williams, Steve Hurley, Jamie Principle, Marshall Jefferson, Lil Louis and Farley “Jackmaster” Funk (to name a few) built was on the foundation of Frankie’s spirit and guidance. There are so many others that made important contributions to build our House in Chicago and subsequently the world, but had it not been for a fateful first night for each of us at The Warehouse, none of us would be who we are today! Frankie Knuckles’ spirit has touched every hemisphere and will live in #Housemusic !”
Teena Sloan-Hendricks (Entrepreneur/Founder of Soul Train Impact!):
“Frankie is what Don Cornelius hoped for all of us. He brought people together in love, peace and soul, with a combination of unity, acceptance and love of MUSIC.”
Dorado “Jockenstien” Evans (Chicago DJ/ Entrepreneur):
“In 1984, I was introduced to house. I began Djing and mixing as soon as I taught myself to do so. Shortly after my introduction to house, I began going out to house parties and clubs throughout the city. The Power Plant was one of the better clubs in the days. Frankie Knuckles was the owner and Resident DJ. He was kind enough to allow me opportunity to spin one night; WHAT A THRILL!!! His laid back, smooth house blends incorporated with the old school sounds of disco, was the reason I and many other people, from miles around migrated and flocked to 1015 N. Halsted St. at 12 midnight to party til noon Sunday; the best of times. Frankie has influenced many DJs around the world, including myself, and he will be truly missed. R.I.P”
Marcus “Dawg House” Balenton (Chicago DJ):
Without Frankie, there would be no house music. I think every “house head” DJ has a little Frankie in them. Thank you Godfather!”
Eric “DJ E” Miles (Chicago DJ):
“Frankie was a trailblazer, a gentleman and a classy DJ. His mixing skills evolved wonderfully and he was always a crowd pleaser! His sessions told stories and spoke volumes. I am saddened by this loss, but we will all eventually go the same route. Rest in peace my turntable brotha!”
Timothy “Midas ReTouch” Jackson (Internet DJ):
“Growing up in the 1980’s, on the Southside of Chi, house music was such a big part of our collective identities and lives. Hearing tracks now from Frankie brings back a flood of great memories the moment I hear them. No matter whether it was hearing a track played on WBMX, being at a party where he was spinning, or even seeing the posters on 79th and Stony or 87th and Stony advertising a party with Frankie, he was a HUGE part of the Chicago landscape and my younger years…and forever will be.”
Frankie loved Chicago as well, as you see here in his own words: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10202826380612125
Frankie has had a major impact on the music industry and is considered a Boss. “Knuckles is, hands down, one of the dozen most important DJs of all time; one of the 50 Most Important People in EDM (electronic dance music),” according to this Rolling Stones magazine article http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/frankie-knuckles-godfather-of-house-music-dead-at-59-20140401
He collaborated with Jamie Principal and brought us instant classics like “Your Love” (1986) http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=jamie+principle+your+love; and “Baby Wants to Ride” (1987) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu8hVn_0Lq4; his own “The Whistle Song” (1991) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIdimVDuSEU; and remixes of Chaka Khan’s “Ain’t Nobody” (1989) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTzsJ8ScngA and Sounds of Blackness’s “The Pressure” (1992) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDAr7WKmxk0.
This is his entire discography
Releases
• “Rain Falls” (single)
• “You Can’t Hide from Yourself” – CBS Records
• “Tears” (single); Frankie Knuckles presents Satoshi Tomiie – FFRR
• “Your Love/Baby Wants to Ride” – Trax Records
• Beyond the Mix – Virgin Records
• “The Whistle Song” – Virgin Records
• Sessions Six – Mixed by Frankie Knuckles – Ministry of Sound
• Choice: A Collection of Classics – Trax Records
• “Keep on Movin'” – Definity Records
Remixes
• “Change” – Lisa Stansfield
• “Power Of Love/Love Power” – Luther Vandross
• “Left To My Own Devices” – Pet Shop Boys
• “This Time” – Chanté Moore
• “Happy” – Towa Tei
• “Let No Man Put Asunder” – First Choice
• “Ain’t Nobody” – Chaka Khan
• “Watcha Gonna Do with My Lovin'” – Inner City
• “Talking with Myself” – Electribe 101
• “The Pressure” – Sounds of Blackness
• “Where Love Lives (Come on In)” – Alison Limerick
• “I Want a Dog” – Pet Shop Boys
• “Notgonnachange” – Swing Out Sister
• “Because of Love” – Janet Jackson
• “Love Hangover” – Diana Ross
• “Bring Me Love” – Andrea Mendez
• “Rock with You” – Michael Jackson
• “Scream” (remixed by Knuckles and David Morales) – Michael Jackson
• “Thriller” (remixed by Knuckles and David Morales) – Michael Jackson
• “You Are Not Alone” – Michael Jackson
• “Closer Than Close” – Rosie Gaines
• “Unbreak My Heart” – Toni Braxton
• “Sunshine” – Gabrielle
• “I’m Going to Go” – Jago
• “Blind” – Hercules & Love Affair
• “You’ve Got the Love” – The Source ft. Candi Staton
• “Million Dollar Bill” – Whitney Houston
• “Forever Came Today” – The Jackson 5 (Released On The Remix Suite)
• “Wrong” – Depeche Mode
He has also been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including:
• 1997: Grammy Award for Remixer of the Year, Non-Classical
• 2004: The city of Chicago – which became notorious in the dance community around the world for passing the so-called ‘anti-rave ordinance’ in 2000 that made property owners, promoters and deejays subject to $10,000 fines for being involved in an unlicensed dance party – named a stretch of street in Chicago after Knuckles, where the old Warehouse once stood, on Jefferson Street between Jackson Boulevard and Madison Street. That stretch of street , called Frankie Knuckles Way, “was renamed when the city declares 25 August 2004 as Frankie Knuckles Day. The Illinois state senator who helped make it happen was Barack Obama.
• 2005: Knuckles was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame for his achievements.
He and/or his works have appeared in media and popular culture, including:
• He was featured in the documentary films Maestro (2003), written and directed by Josell Ramos, and The UnUsual Suspects: Once upon a Time in House Music (2005), directed by Chip Eberhart aka Chip E.
• In October of 2004, “Your Love” with vocalist Jamie Principal, appeared in the videogame Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, playing on house music radio station, SF-UR.
I met him several times, but I never really knew Frankie Knuckles. Even so, he changed my life for the better and influenced me as a DJ. In 1979, I was a 12 year old DJ, and I as grew older I began assisting DJ Jockenstien. This opportunity gained me entrance into several nightclubs, posing as the DJ assistant. During my high school years, all of my friends were attending The Warehouse and later The Power Plant and The Box, if you could get in. This was achieved by going on 63rd and Halsted, here in Chicago, and purchasing a phony ID. We all had them, saying that we were 21 years old. It worked! Those days kept me, and several other children out of trouble and off of the streets. Frankie Knuckles and house music saved a generation or two!
Those experiences in The Warehouse were out of this world! I was seeing things that I had never ever saw before. There were young people, old people, Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, Asians, homosexuals, lesbians, transgendered, cross dressers, thugs, nerds as well as average day Joes and Jills. The thing about it though, was that everyone was getting along. No criticisms or anything out of the sort. Everyone was laughing and joking and dancing. People would share their cigarettes, drinks, etc. with you. It was always a “family” atmosphere and Frankie set the mood for that! To this day, we of the house community call each other family and treat one another accordingly. You can always count on being accepted and welcomed at a house party; wherever it is, whatever country.
Frankie’s style of mixing music has influenced me greatly. He has a smooth, bassline influenced groove with vocals that tell a story and send a positive message to the listening audience. I adopted that strategy and I based my own DJ style on that. If you have never heard Frankie Knuckles aka The Godfather of House spin, here’s a sample for you to groove to from a DJ set at The Boiler Room in NYC: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=644UU55eyzk
In conclusion, THE GODFATHER OF HOUSE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPJcsDqJNyw has left the building. Although he is no longer with us, his spirit lives within all of us and his music and mixes will live on forever. Rest in peace Frankie…Rest in beats! Heaven is a House party now. “FRANKIEEEEEEE…YOU GO BOY!!!!”
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
Photo Credits: Evan Marcus Imagery
Simone Green is a singer and songwriter from Little Rock, Arkansas and is a graduate of the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. While at the University of Iowa, Simone was a member of the popular band Shade of Blue in Iowa where she opened for such renowned artists as the late “Queen of Blues,” Koko Taylor, Raheem DeVaughn, George Clinton & the P-Funk All Starts and Jazz legend Joe Lovano, Maceo Parker, and Roy Haynes. As a solo artist, she opened for Stokley and Denise Williams.
In 2022, Simone released her solo EP, East of Ordinary, on Anka Shank Music LLC, which delivers R&B, House, Contemporary and Adult selections. It is currently available across all major digital platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music and Bandcamp.
She is an active member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and has lent her voice to several award-winning television commercials for major international companies such as Wal-Mart, Charmin, Toyota, WVON and the Illinois Lottery. Her songs have been used on the wildly popular dance video game, Dance Dance Revolution. Additionally, her song “Keep Ya Body Movin” was featured on the hit television series, Ugly Betty. The ADDY Awards is the world’s largest advertising competition with over 50,000 entries annually. The American Advertising Federation bestowed this honor upon advertising jingles performed by Simone in 2006.
Not only is Simone a celebrated vocalist, but she is also a highly respected businesswoman in the Chicago legal community. She is the Founder and Director of CLS Legal Staffing, which is one of the premier companies of its kind in Illinois. She is a sustaining member of the Illinois Paralegal Association, National Association of Legal Assistants and was a member of the Northwestern College and Wright College Paralegal Advisory Boards. Simone has served as an invited speaker at several major university paralegal programs on legal recruiting maters. She has conducted mock interviews at the Institute of Paralegal Studies at Loyola University Chicago and was a Career Counselor for the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin’s resume critique program.
East of Ordinary EP is a music project recorded to debut all original material developed on behalf of Chicago, Illinois based singer, songwriter, and entertainer, Simone Green. As destiny would have it, the teaming of Simone with music producers Lee Pearson Jr and Erwin McEwen brought about many creative vibe sessions where these songs on East of Ordinary manifested from a synergy of artistry. Pearson and McEwen curated the music with the specific mindset to allow Simone’s vocals and authentic talents to shine. An added benefit to the project was Simone’s complete involvement from start to finish that includes conceptualizing song story lines, vocal arrangements and mixing of each song presented on the forthcoming EP release.
East of Ordinary delivers R&B, House, Contemporary and Adult-Oriented selections. While Simone has many outstanding proven performances that deliver on just about any musical genre, confidently, she takes her stance with this release to give existing and new audiences a taste and peek into her musical soul. Eager to have her recorded project in universal circulation, even more exciting will be her live performances of this body of work where she skillfully displays her ability to entertain and engage audiences far and wide.
GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get started in music?
Simone Green: I fell in love with music at a very young age. My parents always played music around the house, in the car and it was part of our daily lives. I heard my cousin sing a Clark Sisters song and from then on, I knew I wanted to sing.
GO BANG! Magazine: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in the music industry professionally?
Simone Green: In college at the University of Iowa. I was part of a four-girl group (Harmoney) and we performed at talent shows and showcases around the state.
GO BANG! Magazine: Who are some of the artists that inspired you early in your career and who inspires you now?
Simone Green: From the very beginning, I’ve been a huge fan of Prince. His talents are off the charts! I really miss him! Patti LaBelle was a big inspiration for me early on because I connected with her powerful vocals. As I’ve grown as an artist, I’m simply in awe of Aretha Franklin. Her range and what she can do vocally is impressive as hell! Right now, I’m inspired by artists right here in Chicago like Terry Hunter, Isaiah Sharkey, Terisa Griffin, and Maurice Mahon.
GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your “sound”, as far as your singing tone and songwriting style?
Simone Green: I would say my singing tone is more sultry and sometimes coarse. I sing hard! LOL.
GO BANG! Magazine: You are vocally and musically fluent in several different genres of music including R&B, Contemporary, Adult-Oriented and HOUSE! Of the four styles of music you perform, which is your favorite and why?
Simone Green: The House music and ballads are my favorites because I love how the audience responds to them. I feed off that energy and lose myself in the moment. That’s when you have some truly magical musical moments.
GO BANG! Magazine: March of 2020 is when the world went on lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The world opened back up in 2022. How did you cope during the pandemic?
Simone Green: For the first six to nine months of the pandemic, I was completely depressed. I have a very busy and hectic schedule and when all of that came to an abrupt halt, I didn’t know what to do with myself. I thrive on routine and suddenly that was thrown into chaos. I had no structure, nowhere to go and nothing to do. I coped by drinking lots of wine and snacking all damn day!
GO BANG! Magazine: Things are getting a lil better now and a “new normal” is here, which means live concerts are returning. Are there any concert tours planned for you any time soon? If so, when?
Simone Green: My dream is to go on a European tour in the next two years. In the short term, I’m hoping to take my Aretha Franklin Tribute on the road throughout the US in 2023, so stay tuned!
GO BANG! Magazine: Chicago loves them some Simone Green. What would you like to say, not only your Chicago supporters, but to your supporters and the GO BANG! Magazine readers, aka THE BANGERS, across the planet, regarding their support and love for you and your music?
Simone Green: To all my fans and THE BANGERS, I love y’all and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued love and support! It means the world to me, and I promise to keep striving for excellence!
GO BANG! Magazine: Earlier this year, you released your solo EP, “East of Ordinary.” Can you tell our readers all about the EP and what they can expect from it?
Simone Green: I am immensely proud of this project! I collaborated with a fantastic team of writers, Lee Pearson Jr., and Erwin McEwen, of Anka Shank Music on every song. The EP consists of all original songs and I’m proud to say that I’m a songwriter on every tune. It’s a mix of R&B and House music. It’s a nice and chill vibe that will make you wiggle in your seat and dream a little bit.
GO BANG! Magazine: One of the songs on the three-track EP that stood out to me, because it was House, is “Don’t Say Nothing.” I loved it! Tell us about that song and your involvement in the House music community.
Simone Green: I absolutely love that song! I connected with the track the first time I heard it! It’s a great dance tune and I hope to have a few remixes out before the summertime. I love House music and have been a fan since my college days in Iowa City. I’m from Little Rock, AR and didn’t hear House music until 1990. Several of our campus DJs were from Chicago, so House music was everywhere.
GO BANG Magazine: Are there any artists you would love to perform with or write for that you haven’t thus far?
Simone Green: To share the stage with the likes of Jill Scott, India Arie, The Roots, or Silk Sonic would be a dream come true. I love them all and it would be an honor to work with all of them.
GO BANG! Magazine: To follow up on that, are there any “dream” producers that you’d love to work with, but haven’t yet?
Simone Green: I would love to work with Terry Hunter (I’ve been manifesting it for a few years!) and I’d love to work with Raphael Saadiq. I love Raphael’s music and writing style….and Terry Hunter is the king of House music right now. I’m a big fan and praying I get the opportunity to work with him, sooner rather than later!
GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to being an outstanding singer/songwriter, you are also an astute businesswoman in the Chicago legal community. How has your legal background aided you in your career in the entertainment industry?
Simone Green: I’ve been working in legal recruiting for 25 years and have met and worked with lots of lawyers and legal professionals. The biggest benefit of this experience as a performer has been the skill of negotiating. I negotiate contracts and offers with my clients and candidates daily and I’m proud to say that I know how to close the deal. Because I manage my singing career, the art of negotiating has helped me with booking my gigs and executing contracts across the board.
GO BANG! Magazine: As we’re doing this interview, it’s the holiday season with Christmas and New Year’s knocking at the door. What are you thankful for this year and what are you hoping for next year?
Simone Green: I’m thankful for good health, my supportive and loving family and friends and the gift of doing what I love. I’m looking forward to recording with a couple of Grammy-award winning producers from Chicago this year and broadening my fanbase in 2023.
GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to wish you a HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON, as well as inform you that you have now officially been BANGED!!! GO BANG!
Simone Green: Thank you so much! 
Watch Simone Green’s performance:
https://www.facebook.com/SimoneGreenLive/videos/413158447238898
https://www.facebook.com/SimoneGreenLive/videos/dont-say-nothing-by-simone-green/1240135716517302
Video courtesy of: Q’s Lounge
Video courtesy of : YouTube/Bird’s Eye View Productions
Simone released her solo EP, East of Ordinary, on Anka Shank Music LLC, which delivers R&B, House, Contemporary and Adult selections. It is currently available across all major digital platforms including:
(CLICK to purchase/download) Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music and Bandcamp.
You can catch Simone Green performing locally, in the Chicago area, at the following upcoming shows:
Friday, January 13th: Ques Lounge, 8404 S. Kedzie, (Chicago)
Sunday, January 15th: Linger Martini Bar, (Oak Forest)
Friday, January 27th: Copper Still Martini Lounge, (Homewood)
Friday, February 10th: Ques Lounge, 8404 S. Kedzie, (Chicago)
Saturday, February 11th: Dining On The Green (Park Forest)
Saturday, February 25th: Linger Martini Bar, (Oak Forest)
Friday, March 3rd: Ques Lounge, 8404 S. Kedzie, (Chicago)
Follow Simone Green on social media and website:
Website: http://simonegreenlive.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimoneGreenLive/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonegreenlive/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimoneGreenLive
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄🎁
MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄🎁
May this day and all the ones after be filled with joy, peace and happiness.
I am grateful for my friends, family and the gifts bestowed to me.
May GOD bless you ALL.
I love you! 😘
AMEN!
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
I’M SO EXCITED & THANKFUL!!!! 
See below!!! 
Dear Pierre,
We would like to officially welcome you as a member of the Chicago Journalists Association! Anyone with the journalism experience conveyed in your resume is a friend of ours.
We hope to see you at our future member meetings. We will send a note with the next date. Please also keep up with us through our e-newsletter, website (chicagojournalists.net) and social media channels.
Facebook: @ChicagoJournalistsAssociation
Twitter: @CJA_Updates
Instagram: @chi_journalists_association
LinkedIn: Chicago Journalists Association
We welcome any contribution you’re willing to make to your new organization! We look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
The CJA Board of Directors
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
All Photos courtesy of Felton Pilate/ConFunkShun
Felton Pilate is best known as the lead singer of Con Funk Shun, an R&B Old School band created in 1974, while in Memphis, TN.
Pilate was born in Jackson Mississippi to Felton Pilate Sr., a naval physician, and Benita Akines Pilate, a music major and social worker. After many military assignments, The Pilate family’s last move would be a move to Vallejo, CA, where Felton Jr. would spend his formative years.
Pilate knew from a very young age that music would be an important part of his life. He took trumpet and piano lessons very early and self-taught himself to play guitar and trombone. In high school, he created a band and performed locally while honing his craft.
Michael Cooper, who had another local band, asked him to join his group during their final high school years and with no hesitation, Felton said yes. That was the beginning of his career as a member of Project Soul who went on the road with Stax recording artists, The Soul Children, and moved to Memphis, TN. Project Soul got a record deal and were asked to change their name. The band chose Con Funk Shun and the rest, as they say, is history.
The band went on to record hit after hit in the 70’s & 80’s where Pilate served as co-producer and songwriter. He still performs with Con Funk Shun to date and proudly proclaims that the music business has been his only income since 1972.
ConFunkShun
Photo courtesy of ConFunkShun
Pilate’s accolades include Record Producer, Songwriter & Recording Artist with (USA) Diamond Platinum Sales Status and numerous Gold, Platinum, Multi-Platinum, and Mega-Platinum selling albums; participated in and contributed to numerous Grammy winning and nominated recording projects; Recording Engineer, Mixer, and Mastering Engineer. Pilate has 45+ years touring history as an internationally recognized R&B artist principal, recording studio owner and manager having trained numerous other eventual Grammy winning record producers.
Pilate gained his greatest world-wide acclaim for production/writing with rap phenom M.C. Hammer. The Hammer-Pilate joint effort staggers the imagination with sales from ‘89 to ‘92 alone, of 30 million, including “Please Hammer Don’t Hurt Em” the #2 all-time selling R&B LP. Other landmarks in Pilate’s Capital records days include his film and TV soundtrack work, such as his Oscar-nominated “Addams Groove” (Addams Family Movie theme) and “Hammerman” (Hammerman cartoon show). Pilate has many other accolades to his credit including his 2010 contribution of “I Wanna Play For You” to the Grammy award winning “The Stanley Clarke Band” album. Pilate has produced artists in other genres, such as Country, Rock, and Gospel.
When Pilate began touring, his soulful falsetto voice, sexy, romantic lyrics and his guitar, keyboards and trombone skills immediately gathered a loyal fan base that has remained with him for almost 50 years. His style of music is not just limited to R&B but is also influenced by many other music genres. His melodic mix creates a distinctive sound that intrigues and transports his listeners, and his larger-than-life persona on stage penetrates his fans hearts and souls.
In 2004, Pilate released a fantastic solo LP entitled, “Nothing But Love Spoken Here”. He provided all the production, vocals, and instrumental tracks and most of the songwriting. A Taste of Honey’s Janice Marie Johnson duets with him on it, and on “Only For You“, which is about that elusive quality: Devotion.
Pilate exquisitely demonstrates his many talents in the recording booth and at the mixing console too. During Covid, he released two singles, “We’re Still Here” and “Waiting Just to Dance” and is currently in the studio working on finishing the album. Both songs are doing extremely well on the charts worldwide. As for Con Funk Shun, Felton and Michael Cooper fine tuned Con Funk Shun’s new Christmas album, “Home For Christmas” released in the fall of 2022, and a new R&B album set for release in early summer 2023. 
Pilate has a gift of perfecting and creating multiple projects at one time and is extremely busy with his music as well as writing, editing, and creating a soundtrack for a new TV pilot. Over the last two years, he has also developed several stage shows including “Everybody Dance!“, a tribute to Nile Rodgers and Chic, “I Love Music!”, a tribute to the Philly Sound, and “Rock Steady!”, a tribute to Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds.
In Pilate’s spare time, he loves to show off his magician skills to friends and family. He also enjoys taking photos, recording videos, and editing them, cooking, watching movies, and traveling!
Pilate resides in the Atlanta area with his wife Jennifer and loves spending time with their children, family, and friends.
GO BANG! Magazine: It is a pleasure and an honor for GO BANG! Magazine to have this opportunity to interview you Sir. When you were developing your talent in the early years of your life, who was your inspiration then and who do you admire now?
Felton Pilate: There’s been a piano in my home as far back as I can remember. My first inspiration was my mother, who was a music major and a very accomplished singer and pianist. Latter inspiration came from music I heard around the house. If my mother got to the “hi-fi” first, it was classical music, and if my father got to it first, it was the jazz masters of the day, like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, etc.
GO BANG! Magazine: March of 2020 is when the world went on lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The world opened back up in 2022. How did you cope during the pandemic?
Felton Pilate: It was a difficult year for Con Funk Shun performing live. We did a quarter of the gigs that we would have normally done. However, on the creative side, it gave me a lot of time and opportunity to work on the songs for the Christmas album that we just released within the last 30 days. It’s called “Home for Christmas” and has five original songs on it. We had a chance to perform four of the songs in front of our Bay Area audience when we performed at Yoshi’s this past weekend.
Home For Christmas – ConFunkShun
Video Courtesy of YouTube/ConFunkShun Band
ConFunkShun – Love’s Train – LIVE
Video courtesy of YouTube/LiveLikeItShows
GO BANG! Magazine: Things are getting a lil better now and a “new normal” is here, which means live concerts are returning. Are there any concert tours planned for Con Funk Shun and for you as a solo artist, any time soon? If so, when?
Felton Pilate: Silk Sonic’s release of “Loves Train” this year just happened to coincide with the song being released on the “To The Max” LP, 40 years ago. Although it’s been one of our most popular songs, the newfound interest allowed us to tour even more this year. We’ll have one more concert before the end of year that will be the end of the “Loves Train 40 Year Anniversary Tour.” We already have 20 or more gigs lined up for next year and are talking to promoters about us possibly touring Europe after the first of the year.
(L to R) Felton Pilate, Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Michael Cooper
GO BANG! Magazine: As you just said, Love Train was recently revived and covered by Silk Sonic on the 2022 Billboard Awards show this past spring in May. What did you think about their performance of your song, and have you had a chance to speak with them and provide any feedback to them? If so, what did you say and how did they respond?
Felton Pilate: Mike (Cooper) and I had a chance to fly to Las Vegas, meet with them, and thank them personally for recording the song. We were invited backstage at their performance at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. After 10 minutes of waiting in the reception room, Bruno Mars, followed closely by Anderson .Paak, burst through the door, dropped to his knees, and did his best Michael Cooper imitation singing “If by chance…“!! We spent the next few minutes talking music in general and learned that Silk Sonic initially had concerns about doing the song justice. Bruno asked did they do ok…
Silk Sonic Billboard Music Awards 2022 Performance “Love’s Train”
Video courtesy of YouTube/Bruno Mars
Puh-leezzzzz!!!! I think they did a magnificent job! They managed to keep the emotional intensity of the original recording, while adding their own signature flourishes. We didn’t know in advance that they were going to be recording it. Mike and I both found out on February 14th and the first time I heard it, I was blown away!
GO BANG! Magazine: Congratulations are in order for you as a producer, songwriter and Grammy award nominee and winning recording artist. Who are some of today’s producers, songwriters and recording artists that you admire?
Felton Pilate: I’ve been a Bruno Mars fan since he first came out. I will have to admit that I knew nothing about Anderson .Paak until the last two years, but I have recently come to really like what he does as a writer and producer. Artists such as Neyo, Kem, and Khalid are on my playlists and I’ve been paying close attention to producer, Ian Kirkpatrick.
GO BANG! Magazine: In that same vein as my previous question, are there any creatives that you would love to work with that you haven’t thus far? If so, who are some of them?
Felton Pilate: In addition to everyone I’ve mentioned, I would have loved to work with Quincy Jones. I still may get a chance to work with Babyface and Teddy Riley.
GO BANG! Magazine: You are a survivor in the music industry, with over 45 years of successful international performing and touring. While others have faded away. You have withstood the test of time. What is the secret to your longevity?
Felton Pilate: Well, I wouldn’t call it a “secret”, but I actually try to create with the word “longevity” in mind. There’s a reason why songs such as Lionel Richie’s “Endless Love“, Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You“, and Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You“, have survived over the decades and will be around and loved for decades to come. I believe it is entirely possible to stay relevant without having to completely depend on whatever the current musical trends are.
GO BANG! Magazine: Besides being a legendary artist, you have something else up your sleeve. We here at GO BANG! Magazine are fans of magic, and we heard that you are quite the magician. How did you get started in magic and are you really that good?
Felton Pilate: My mother bought me a magic set one Christmas when I was young and I’ve dabbled in it ever since. Nothing elaborate, just spur of the moment stuff with cards, rope, coins, etc.
GO BANG! Magazine: What’s your most popular, and, what’s your most favorite magic trick that you like to perform?
Felton Pilate: My best one so far was done decades ago (before cell phones). I had my girlfriend randomly select a card from a deck and put it into her back pocket. No one left the room and everyone stayed in plain sight. A few moments later her home phone rang and a mysterious voice told her what the card was. Everyone was quite impressed!
GO BANG! Magazine: What other hidden talents do you have, that our readers may not be aware of?
Felton Pilate: I take my cooking VERY seriously! I’m a big fan of Asian food of all kinds. I’ve got a wok and I’m not afraid to use it! I also have a salmon salad with sundried tomato pesto that’s quite popular.
GO BANG! Magazine: Felton, I want to give you your flowers while you’re still alive. You are blessed, talented and your music has touched the world and made it a better place to live. Your music has been the soundtrack to millions of people’s lives. Thank you! In conclusion, what would you like to say to all the GO BANG! Magazine readers, aka the BANGERS, around the world?
Felton Pilate: I have been blessed to have my music be my only source of income for over 50 years and I’m honored for my songs to have been a special part of people’s lives. Thank you, BANGERS, for allowing that to happen!
Stay tuned… there’s more to come! Happy Holidays!!!
GO BANG! Magazine: HAPPY HOLIDAYS Felton Pilate. You have now been BANGED!!!
You can follow Felton Pilate on social media @Felton Pilate and check out his website.
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
