EdGray4America

Ed Gray 50 Years In Song !

2012-01-31T18:19:00.000-08:00

5o years of songs ! My life in song ! My life in music ! Ed Gray !

Words can not express the joy , the relief , and enthusiasm I have for reaching this milestone ! Perhaps it better to put it in song !

I was born the same day THE GREAT DUKE ELLINGTON was born !

My family took the A TRAIN from the East Coast to Texas !

I grew up in Dallas atending local schools and enjoyed a typical childhood . . .
Eventually graduating from SMU in 1989 !

Sharing a birthday with Rick James allowed me the time to reflect on ....Partying !

In between parties , I found time to Keep Hope Alive !
In these times I served as a Congressional Intern , Founder of the Coalition for African American Progress , a Truman Scholar !

30 years of moving up . I have mentored hundreds of young people , giving numerous speeches , and spent countless hours in community service FOR THE PEOPLE .
I remain as always optimistic about the future ! To believe in the future , you must believe in our youth . We will be allright - because I am part of the youth movement . Young at Heart ! Optimistic ! Keep your head to the sky , you can win !

To truly be rich you must count what you give away .
EDWARD GRAY 1962 -

Ed Gray 50th Gospel Tribute

2012-01-28T21:56:00.000-08:00

This is the week of my 50th birthday.I am ever thankful for My Lord , My Savior , for giving me these years . The picture of me on this blog I was 8 he brought me this far by faith.He didn't have to do it but he did . My belief in God is unchanging , my belief in religion has evolved . I believe in God , not man .
Thank you Master for My soul !

For the ages this is one of my favorites ! I played this song when my father died , it got me thru a rough day . My wish is that on my last day above the earth , they play this song , "Mary Don't you Weep " ...all of them men got drowned in the sea! Don't Weep !

I thank the Lord , for giving me my mother who instilled in me church ! She had me to go sing in the choir ,and if there was a song I remember very well ....It is "Pass me not " , Please Lord ....do not pass me by !

Religion is about optimism , your belief in God is personal ! My relationship with my God is personal but I have a relationship , and it is not complicated. 50 YEARS, a lot of yesterday's gone and I pray a few more tomorrows to come .
I will be Optimistic !

See ya next week on the flip side of 50 !

Vonda's Vault Box " Christmas Edition

2011-12-24T22:22:00.000-08:00

As we close yet another year in the Vault . Vonda's Vault Box offers tributes to Christmas ! The Vault Box is a collection of the best videos up loaded from you tube by Ed Gray . My thanks to all of you for listening to the Vault Box . My thanks to that maven of music, Vonda and all those Carter Cowboys from back in the day that made traveling on the way back machine a Fantastic Ride !

The Christmas Edition is here and it's brought to you by Santa Claus because he is coming to Town ! He needs to go to Sunny Southside Dallas ,Compton, Anacostia ,Dalworth . and Soulsville and many more ! We need a change, we don't need drugs in our community ,we don't need poor schools , we don't need violence ,Santa put that in your bag !

Vonda and KurtiS ,read Jcab and Ari a bed time story from back in the day !

Back in the day , Santa Claus came to town all the time carrying bags of toys . This year Santa and Janelle left me a Kindle . The firs thing downloaded was : The Jackson Five and Santa Claus

Blogging late at night , a "Silent Night" of reflection with the Temptations!

Our gift to you this week as always , the best video music blog on the planet !

The Vonda Vault Box Collection is closing down for the year ! We wish you all a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! From my family to yours ! May 2012 be Golden ! " This Christmas " by my frat Donny Hatthaway !

Vonda's Vault Box : Diego Deuce 4 Party !

2011-12-17T05:41:00.000-08:00

The Vault Box is back this week with a birthday celebration for my brother Diego. Can't believe we have this many folks in the Vault . Vonda let's get some water in here ! Some Aqua , so we can boogie !

Bio Aqua Do Loop ! Man that can make You dance !
Oak Cliff Party and its on the web !

If you ain't from the Vault , and Oak Cliff , this mix don't mean nothing , but if you are open your hearts , and ears !

Pizzazz , 220 ,Nicoles ,MadCap Mollies, Lakeside , Executive , so many clubs , had to work that neck , maybe its Chit Chat next !

Is that Wonnie and Debra over there in Fishnets !

Man it's Fire and Desire , Gotta slow it Down !
There is Tracey with those Ebony Eyes !

We got Kliff Klub drinks up in here !
For the next 50 responses the rest of the drinks on me and Vonda !

This is a slammin party , Is that Stephan or is that Stafon !
Well they are both here , and feels so good !

Well Vonda and me gotta prepare for the Christmas Special !
Until next week we leave you with Jay Z and The Kid !

Abner Haynes : Dallas Texans AFL Champions

2011-12-05T17:02:00.000-08:00

One of the Unsung Heroes in Dallas Sports History is Abner Haynes . For those of you who don't know him , before it was Emmitt , before it was Tony Dorsett , there was Abner Haynes . Abner Haynes was the first back on a Dallas Football championship. Abner played for the Dallas Texans-KansasCity Chiefs football teams where he still holds ten records .The Dallas Texans AFL Champions .

I like to thank Abner for all he has done , a fantastic individual a pioneer of football . He was the featured football player in North Texas at the onset of the Civil Rights Era .Prior to playing professional football , he helped to integrate the University of North Texas in 1956. In a time when you could count blacks on a football team , he had the the opportunity by the virtue of stepping on the field to become a civil rights pioneer because of the unofficial quota system in Texas college football.
Abner Haynes professional career thrived in the Dallas Texans football system led by Coach Hank Stram .

IN THE WEBSITE:
//httpinterviewswithblackentrepreneurs.com/abner-haynes/ "He was a franchise player before they talked about franchise players," praised Stram. "He did it all — rushing, receiving, kickoff returns, punt returns. He gave us the dimension we needed to be a good team in Dallas." During his 8 professional seasons, Haynes carried the ball 1,036 times for 4,630 yards, a 4.7 average; caught 287 passes for 3,535 yards, a 12.3 average, and 20 touchdowns; returned 85 punts for 875 yards, a 10.3 average, and 1 touchdown; and ran back 121 kickoffs for 3,025 yards, a 25.0 average.His 12,065 combined yards is the American Football League record.

The former University of North Texas alum was an Amazing back that has been overlooked in North Texas football lore. Abner Haynes was the first ever AFL Rookie of the Year , and the first ever AFL MVP !
ABNER HAYNES - TEXAS FOOTBALL lEGEND

Thank you Abner , but most of all thank you for helping integrate the University of North Texas.

You are a Legend, a football player ,but above all else a Dallas Sports Legend !
You helped bring the first football championship to Dallas !

Herman ' BIG Daddy " Cain Edition

2011-12-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

The presidential sweepstakes for 2012 back in stride again . Another week ,another GOP front runner bites the dust. Before we get to the videos. Let's look at the facts , Herman Cain is a smart man . A man with his some ideas that needed to be heard . Pretty simple , but it got your attention didn't it.

I was happy that he was the front runner ,and yeah , you can say it was a black thing if you want too . However look at this way , that day the Democratic president was black , the GOP front runner was black. Ain't America a great good country. Shouldn't America be about ideas and not about race.

I would like to see how he would have fared in a debate against President Obama . Here is a clip of 'The Godfather' Herman Cain versus President Bill Clinton in 1994 .

Herman Cain was getting the job done . Any man that can a balance a family, handle his outside women ,
and balance running a corporation ,certainly can balance the budget.

Okay Okay ... Okay all this drama about Cain and the women , enuff. Cain ain't no different than any other presidential candidate who had their women issues . Bill Clinton , Gary Hart , all of them smooth operators ....
So Herman was a Smooth Operator !

And now we bring you live Herman Big Daddy Cain's announcement regarding his campaign
LIVE AT THE APOLLO !

This video blog was brought to you by Godfather's Pizza !

Vonda's Vault Box :California West Coast Edition

2011-11-19T05:23:00.000-08:00

Vonda's Vault Box this week is back in the vault . Got some folks that want to hear some Pac this morning . Folks say they need some West Coast music . For those of our viewers in the West Coast , get your coffee on ,and lets start this joint !

Too hot in Texas ! Gotta go back to Cali .... Besides our wine collection holds better in the vault in Cali !

The weather is excellent in Cali , gotta admit , our vaulters says it never rains ! We gotta slow it down with our slow mix with Tony ! Tony !Tone !

They party out there in Cali ! The state where you never find the dance floor empty . With bomb beats like this , ya know ! California Dreaming !
It's all Good from Diego to the Bay !

Now we gotta go with some traveling music ---The Jet is on the run -way .
Can Vonda fly a plane ?
I don't think so ,Homey Don"t Play that !
See ya back next week at the Vault !

Gospel Sunday : Jesus Can Fix It Be Optimistic

2011-11-13T05:05:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Sunday , there are no heart aches ! God is with us , ain't the right Emmanuel ! The word from today is from Sister Robin Gray off her facebook page she posts.

"Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, & salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them, God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard & long, pray for your brothers & sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out." Eph 6 (MSG). Lookup...

Look up and be optimistic. Keep your eyes to the sky. Look toward the hills !

The Gospel According to your belief. GOD HAS BEEN GOOD 2 ME
I am 2 close to Heaven to turn around now !

This video is about 20 years ago ,Why We Sing !
See Yolanda Adams and Kirk Franklin.
We were all so young ..... For the Love God is still there !

When you break something you love, you want it to be fixed . If your heart is broken , you need SUPER GLUE to fix it ! JESUS , is that glue.

For Abner thanks for the shout out this week! Very seldom do we hear a voice like Sam Cooke , but more importantly , we just need to touch the hem of our Saviors garment and we will be healed .
God Bless you all and we will see you next week.
GOD WILLING !

Vonda"s Vault Box : Black Coffee- NO Sugar ,NO Cream -Big MAN Edition

2011-11-12T08:22:00.000-08:00

"Black Coffee,No Sugar No Cream " , heyyyy ! I see ya .
God Bless Heavy D in his life and his works .See my earlier posts on the Big Man ! We are in the vault today ,@ Vonda"s Vault Box honoring one of Hip Hop legends and all the big men who sing and rock it big !.

Big Men can rock the house - Brooklyn in the House along with Mt.Vernon !
I see the MDC singing "Through your hands in the air" !

All the big men come from New York ! If they can sing "Its Never To Much".

But down south, long ago in LA , that's Lower Alabama y'all they raise him big !
From Alabama its Ruben Studdard !

We will see ya next week at the Vault !
RIP Heavy D .....

Jazzy Fridays : George Howard

2011-11-11T21:15:00.000-08:00

Time to slow down my friends , sit back and enjoy the sounds of a slow groove. It's over a hard week down and now it's time to listen to the tunes to make you feel good. Jazz at its best makes you escape into another world ...Let's do it !
Spenser For Hire ! by George Howard !
A great sax man !

The great jazz artist George Howard , will certainly be missed.

George could make a grrove smooth or funky ! George Howard dedicated this to aother sax man ---the Great Grover Washington ! A funky groove !

We are on a smooth tip ... let's get funky and close outthis slow groove with D'Angelo and George Howard . Look at you , I can't keep my cool ...
Smooth .....dedicated to T !

See ya next week at the corner of Jazzy Friday and Happiness !

Heavy D 1967-2011 : Hip Hop Legend Peaceful Journey

2011-11-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

The overweight lover has left the house. The man with the big man swagger ,and the killer rhymes. "Heavy D" combined humor ,rhymes ,and an infectious beat to entertain us for years. "Heavy D" has passed away.

From Fats Domino to Biggie Smalls to "Heavy D". Rhythm and Blues and Hip Hop have produced big men who played big. "Heavy" was one of those guys.

A man with a urban beat - a political conscious Who loved his women like.....

The Fat Boys used their overweight as a comic foil. Heavy used his weight as big sexy. Style and Overweight the girlz loved "Heavy D".

rEST iN pEACE ! BIG DADDY !

Joe Frazier 1944-2011 : Enters "Fighters Heaven "

2011-11-07T20:30:00.001-08:00

"Smokin Joe " Frazier died November 7 ,2012 .He was a great champion , a great man ! The first fighter to beat Muhammad Ali and the only fighter that brought out the true best in Ali. Joe was born in Beaufort South Carolina , the son of a sharecropper. He moved to Philly at the age of 16 . He took up boxing as he worked in a maetpacking slaughterhouse. In 1964 he won the Olympic Gold as a heavyweight.

After Muhammad Ali was stripped of his title , Joe Frazier went thru a elimination tournament defeating "Buster "Mathis in 1968.

He won Universal recognition as Heavyweight champion by defeating Jimmy Ellis the W.B.A. Champion by 5TH round Knockout.

Still there was Muhammad Ali in the wings "The Peoples Champion" after 15 brutal rounds .Frazier was World Heavyweight Champion.

Joe Frazier was a helluva fighter .He will be missed ,somewhere in Fighters Heaven , Joe is still throwing left hooks. Joe take us out in song !

Gospel Sunday Readers Choice :God is NOT A Limited Edition

2011-11-06T06:48:00.000-08:00

Thank you viewers for your suggestions for video clips of the week.
A God fearing woman writes that God is calling her name .HE indeed calls all of us our names. HE IS that whisper in the wind .Will we answer the call of THE WIND ?

A dear friend has a status change, because our status changes each day as we move closer to God !A prayer for the week ,a prayer for tomorrow...a prayer forever.

Father in heaven, I choose to honor You in all that I do. I choose to set the standard and do my very best. Thank You for the privilege to be Your representative. Help me to show Your love and excellence in everything I do.I love You and bless You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

GOD IS ABOUT CHANGE -a change for good , a change to move to Glory !
Remember "Bushwick Bill " ,naw your mind's not playing tricks on you.
Thanks Sister Robin Gray for submitting through your facebook page Bushwick Bill's testimony of Redemption!

Prayer Line starting in Lancaster Texas ... Prayer Line starting in D.C. , Miami , Atlanta, Oak Cliff .... GOD STILL LOVES me....

If you haven't changed , If I have not changed "Hold On CHANGE IS COMING ".

Remember GOD IS NOT A LIMITED EDITION !
See ya next week "God willing".

Vonda's Vault Box : Kids Section with the Jackson 5 , Bow Wow , New Edition , Slick Rick,and Run DMC

2011-10-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

Another Saturday ,another story to tell .
In the vault have a children's section too.
Let's get Slick Rick to talk to the kids !

We got lots of kids in the vault sometime they get out of hand ,that's why we have SECURITY !

No kids section can not be complete without the Jackson 5 !

Almost as good as the J5 , NAW.... butthey were good anyway.

Kids grow up he ain't Lil Bow Wow , just BOW WOW !
Where my dogs at ? They in the vault !

We gotta go chase some kids away from the turntable and that's the way it is !

See ya next week !

Jazzy Fridays : Fusion City , Miles Davis ,George Duke ,Waymon Tisdale , Alex Bugnon

2011-10-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

This week our jazz trip goes straight to you with an blast from the past. So many hits last week and calls requesting some more fusion -jazz! Let's hear from Waymon Tisdale as we cruise on the "Starship".

The Ohio Players standard never sounded so good !
Alex Bugnon plays this funk standard to anew jazz standard ! Fusion at its best !

Fusion Jazz - from Houston Texas , Ronnie Laws !
There are no friends and strangers in Jazz - just good vibes !

MILES DAVIS plays a r and b classic "Human Nature" from Michael Jackson !

We live you just as we came in on a starship !
This time the 'Mothership Connection " ! With George Duke !

See ya next week at the corner of Jazz and Good Times !

MLK Dedication October 16 ,2011

2011-10-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

The nation paused to honor greatness not only in a man but for a country .The nation honored not a general ,not a president,not a politician , not WAR ,but a man who stood for freedom.

My mother marched with Dr. King during the March on Washington.

She marched not because it was fashionable .
In fact some black folk encouraged her not to go.
She marched because she was young and hopeful for a better future .

They all looked so young and hopeful that August in 1963.
As they look back in October 2011 for a cause that will never die - Civil Rights.

They did not imagine they would see this .
A black man as president of the United States.

Every Man leaves A legacy through his works. Dr. King leaves a legacy for us all !

We Have some difficult days Ahead , but I wish we had them with you .

God Bless You, Dr. King .....

Vonda's Vault Box : Dance off Contest :Michael , Bobby Brown , Usher ,Johnny Gill ,Chris Brown

2011-10-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Vault Box is open for business once more .The Vault Box series in honor of Usher Raymond"s birthday celebrates !If you like this video blog series "U don't Have to Call " just forward it to someone ! True Player for Real !

Everyone in the vault is Dance crazy ! I hope this blog finds you dancing at the computer with Vonda ! Johnny Gill - is dancing " Rub You The Right Way ".

RIP -Michael Jackson ! He was just awesome ! Everyone sing "You Rock My World !
oh-oh Here comes Usher again ! What,is that Chris Tucker ?

Slow the dancing , I may just need a pacemaker ! Whitney is causing a disturbance in the vault yelling ,BOBBY , BOBBY ! "Rock Witcha " with Bobby Brown!

A late entrant by Lady T , She says what about Chris Brown !
Make that Change !

Another Video Blog in the hard drive !
Let's dance out of here with MJ !
Long live the King of POP ! THIS VIDEO BLOG IS JUST "BAD" ! REmix for the ages !

Jazzy Fridays : Eryka Badu ,Al Jarreau,Waymon Tisdale , Kem ,Kirk Whalum

2011-10-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Casey is running this joint , asking and requesting that we put up some jazz , so we can get this jazz set going ! I am looking forward to possibly introducing a new jazz concept with a entrepreneur for Grand Prairie !In the meantime let's content ourselves with this jazz video mix! 'I Will Be Here for You " !

Let's get in the "Apple Tree" with South Dallas" own Eryka Badu ! Its been years since I saw her reading taro cards at Onasile Salon ! Eryka Badu's music defies description .Is it jazz ? You be the Judge !

We are in the jazz singer mood , Lets pick up with Anita Baker , she is my "Angel" !

Detroit in the house , Anita Baker and now it's my man Kem ! He got a little Al Jarreau sound , but he got a Y2K SWAGGER ! Here is Kem !

Southwest Jazz Artist the late Waymon Tisdale from Tulsa, plays "Get Down on It ".

If the name sounds familiar, yes it is the one and only former OU basketball great and NBA player !

We have to go now ! Before we leave let's do "The Wave" with Kirk Whalum !
If you look closely in the clip you can see Casey walk pass the camera !

See ya next week at the Jazzy Friday and we will save you a seat !

Gospel Sunday ; God Is In the Music : Kirk Whalum , Al Green, Sam Cooke ,Kirk Franklin

2011-10-09T00:47:00.001-07:00

Each Sunday as we reach out and touch our brothers and sisters , we do it with all kinds of music ! All Glorifying the Lord !
Gospel Sunday , God Makes Me a Believer !

After the week , I have had ! Nobody Knows the trouble that I have seen . Nobody But one , Yes Lord ! the great Sam Cooke testifies about the troubles and the sorrow !
Glory to God !

Even back in the day .... Gospel Sunday and Rand B mix together in the 70's. Back then it was a rand b . Today it would be on the Gospel charts . Well today its on the blog ! Al Green sings about a choice to make - a woman or God ! He chooses God ! " I know you can understand a country boy ".
"Belle"

From jazz to r and b , to old skool , to new skool !
God Is here !
Hosanna !

See you next week at Gospel Sunday !
God Bless !

Vonda's Vault Box Cameo , Parliament , Jodeci , Angela ,Alex and Cherelle

2011-10-08T21:51:00.001-07:00

These late hours in the vault are killing me , the hours are changing and i need a flash light to see the wax! Oh -Oh here it is I found it !

Man who is that over there , man that's Larry what you say !
Strange ! and Cameo Likes it !

Gotta catch my breath , the Vaulters say slow it down, anything for My Beloveds!

I gotta play some Jodeci for some real lovers of the best era ever was the 90"s !

Well we gotta go , the vault is closed down for another week !

See ya next week at the Vonda's Vault Box !

2011-10-08T16:55:00.001-07:00

Monday Football Special : Al Davis 1929-2011

2011-10-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

The mercurial Al Davis passed away today . I have always like Al because he always pushed the envelope. He truly thought outside he box . He was an innovator. He crossed several decades from the 60"s to the 2k TENS !

Al was born to a wealthy family in Brocktown Massachusetts,the same town that spawned former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano. He soon moved the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn.

Davis football career began as a offensive line coach from 1960-1962 for the Los Angeles Chargers ( not a miss print ) the Chargers were originally in Los Angeles.
In 1963 he was chosen to be the head coach for the Oakland Raiders and immediately improved the winning percentage for the team.

In 1966 Davis was chosen by his peers to head the AFL but what is best known is winning .
From the wikepedia post of October 8 , 2011 best sums up the Al Davis Legacy .
The Raiders became one of the most successful teams in all of professional sports. From 1967 to 1985 the team won 13 division championships, one AFL championship (1967), three Super Bowls (XI, XV, and XVIII) and made 15 playoff appearances. Though the Raiders' fortunes have waned in recent years, having gone 37–91 from 2003 to 2010, they are one of two teams to play in the Super Bowl in four different decades, with the other being the Pittsburgh Steelers. Along with appearing in five Super Bowls, the Raiders have also played in their Conference/League Championship Game in every decade since their inception.

Davis from a sociological point of view broke the good old boy network .He was the first team owner to hire a minorities ad head football coaches by Hiring Tom Flores and Art Shell .HIS AGGRESSIVE MANNER AND HIS COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE SEPARATED HIM FROM THE PACK . Mr. Davis you have earned your rest ,thanks for all you did as an innovator and a man who gave minorities a chance to win , when others put them on the sideline.

Tuesday Night Fights :Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Floyd Mayweather

2011-10-04T02:00:00.000-07:00

Yep ,This is the Tuedsy Night Fight ! Noooooo ! Not the Sugar Ray Leonars Hall of Famer vs. Floyd "Money" Mayweather . It's his dad ! Floyd Sr .
Let's take a look back into time to the 1970"s !
September 9 ,1978 the young Sugar Ray Leonard with a record of 13-0 with 8 KO'S vs. the dangerous Floyd Mayweather 15-1 with 8 KO'S !
Let's go back and listen as Howard Cosell calls the fight !

The third round saw Leonard use his fast reflexes and ring speed to outclass Mayweather ! Leonard was overcomming being thumbed by Mayweather.

The end is near. Leonard uses his superior speed and the footwork to Knock out Floyd Mayweather !

And the winner is Sugar Ray Leonard from Washington D.C.!
Tuesday Night Fights brought to you by Ford !

See you next week at Ringside !

Gospel Sunday : We Need You Lord Features Jonathan Butler, Aretha ,Sounds Of Blackness

2011-10-02T17:55:00.001-07:00

We Need You Lord ! This week we say it , we ask for your help , as we know we can not do it alone ! We are either in a storm , leaving a storm , or headed to a storm ,We Need You Lord ! " I Love to Worship " at your throne !

SOMETHING IN THE NAME ..... we believe in Jesus ,We believe in God !
Pass me Not. Hear my Humble Cry ! O Gentle Savior !

One of my favorites from the Queen of Soul .... This got me thru a rough day ! Mary don't you weep ,and I didn't weep either !
Pharoahs army got drowned in the sea !

Back to old churches of my youth!Those days of sitting in the church pews ,with those sisters,with those big fans and bigger hats !The minister shouting and praying for salvation !
I Believe , Yes , Jesus I believe !

Until we see you next week , pray for me , and pray for us !

Jazzy Fridays : All African Connection / Sade ,Jonathan Butler ,Miriam Makeba

2011-10-01T08:17:00.000-07:00

Jazzy Fridays back again for another week of your best video blogs in America ! Let's get started with some jazz from the Motherland a throwback from Africa !
From South AFRICA with love ! Jonathan Butler !

For you out there who love jazz as much as I do !
Do you Love me and Jazzy Fridays !

From the shanty town's of Capetown during the days of apartheid to England , to winning Grammys in America , Butler has been a class act . There is nthing like a Jonathan Butler slow jam !

Going to Africa SOON !
Edgray4america is tenatively making plans to travel to Liberia !
But meanwhile let's think of Under African Skies !
Peter Simon and the late great Miriam Makeba!
Makeba another freedom fighter from South Africa !

From down coast in South Africa to the west coast of the continent !
Let's go to Nigeria ! " The Sweetest Taboo " is the music and the charms of Sade !
Born in Nigeria , and raised in London , she is still a stunner in Dallas !

Stunner 4 Sure 1 Sade is 52 YEARS OLD , Check her out !
Cherish the Day - she comes to your town !

CAdestiny from you tube posted this my thanks to them and all the other you tube posts !

We close the set out , same we came in ! And if somebody told that jazz was dead . Tell them it is .....
Lies , Lies !

Until next week when we meet at the corner of jazz and your heart !
See ya real soon !

Ali- Foreman : The Rumble in the Jungle

2011-09-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Night Fights presents the Rumble in the Jungle !
Undefeated George Foreman takes on the former champion Muhammad Ali.
At this time Foreman was 40-0 with 37 KO'S.
I met the champ , and spokle to him regarding this fight , but tonight we share with you the tale of the "Rumble in the Jungle".

George came in to the fight a heavy favorite . He destroyed the two men who beat Ali in a spectacular way . In four rounds , he defeated two Hall of Famers , knocking them down a total of nine times in scoring two 2nd round Knockouts.
Ali-Norton 2nd round Knockout

With that on his mind Ali went to Africa to battle Big George !

ALI goes into the fight confident , not scared ! Promising to dance he does that !

Exciting First round .... realizing that he could take Georg'e punches Ali decides to do something amazing . He will take his punches and strike back again in response .Thus is born the rope a dope !

10 years after Liston , 7 years after being strippd of his title.
Justice is restored to the Heavyweight championship !
Ali Bomaye !

Vonda's Vault Box ;The Late Edition with Gap ,Confunkshun ,The Time ,2 Pac , and Vesta Williams

2011-09-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

Late night in the vault , gotta make this cut before the lights go out !
We gotta spin the tunes because we Gotta to Be Enuff !
Let's open up with some Old skool Confunshun !

TO GET WITH THIS , you gotta Get up early in the Morning !

I am cool in this vault , but who is this brother with this mirror ! Vonda' call security ! Jerome !

Tell me if you still care that we put this best video blog in the history of Blogging !

The greatest rapper /poet of all time ! 2Pac Shakur is trying to get in the vault!

As we close our blog this week , light a candle for one of our vault artists.
Vesta Williams.... Rest In Peace.
We will see ya next week at the vault !

Gospel Sunday : God Has Smiled On Me: Features Kirk , Rance Allen , Jonathan Butler ,

2011-09-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

God has smiled on me ...He has set me free .From the trials and the tribulations , listen to that quiet voice , that may be HIM talking to you.
He has been good to me ,oh so good ,woke me up for another day to serve ,made me walk away from hate ,and run to love !

The Sweetest Name I know is Jesus !
Some people say I am crazy , I can't explain the power of HIS name , It's just like Fire ! Sweeter than Honey ! Listen to Kirk and Rance Allen ....
SOMETHING ABOUT THE NAME !

FALL IN lOVE WITH JESUS is the best thing that I ever done !
Falling in love with the bread of life , for it is that bread that sustains us all!

I LOVE THE LORD -HE TALKS TO US through all music , from traditional Gospel to the modern expressions of his Love. that. Time to STOMP!

It was 1997 and Kirk was just making it big ! Shouting out to Dallas and Ft.Worth on the Lettermen Show .
Times change but GOD DOES NOT CHANGE !
SEE YA NEXT WEEK ON GOSPEL SUNDAY !

Vonda's Vault Box:Ain't No Joke Old SkooL Music 4 U

2011-09-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

The Vault Box finally has cooled down. It was hot as a Firecracker in here !
Sometimes I just couldn't remain cool ! It was a Mass Production effort !

David Letterman is here in the vault funkin with Stanley Clarke and George Duke !
About to ride the Mothership !
Check these horns out !

This blog is no joke ...Second to None ... Ain't No Joke !

Usher and Alecia bring love in the vault with "My Boo" !

I hope you like this weeks video selections .
I hope you are like El Debarge " I like It " !

Well we gotta go The Vault is closed until next week !
Remember to have Every Little Step you take lead you back to Vonda's Vault Box !

Jazzy Fridays: George Duke , Brothers Johnson , David Sanborn , Jonathan Butler , and Al Jarreau

2011-09-15T23:33:00.000-07:00

Hey we appreciate all the tweets ,instant messages , and calls on our Jazz series. We are 300 hits from our goal for the month of September.So fellow jazz fans send this video blog out to 5 of your friends , do it for an "Old Friend ".

In Grand Prairie , we welcomed Stanley Clarke to our city with the band Return To Forever ! Stanley is a prolific bassist and composer , here he is with George Duke. A favorite collaboration ! You gotta love it !

Gotta go with the Brothers Johnson to the "Land Of Ladies " !
Time to escape ......

Jonathan Butler is crazy about this girl named Sarah !

Our time is up we gotta go !
My partner in crime Casey , says this is the best jazz video blog series ever.
Casey and David Sanborn both say : "I TOLD U SO ".

See ya next week at the club , I will save you a seat by the band

Tuesday Night Fights: Hagler -Hearns

2011-09-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Night Fights The Marvin Hagler - Tommy Hearns fight was arguably the best fight in the history of boxing . Never in the history of boxing was there three rounds of brutal carnage . Hagler the Champion , Hearns the challenger . Two men enter - One man leave . For three rounds they threw down like it was a Golden Gloves Fight, Tommy Hearns left the ring beaten but no other fighter could have beaten him that night except Marvelous Marvin Hagler . IF WE HAD MORE FIGHTS LIKE THIS WE WOULD HAVE NO UFC FIGHTS . Tuesday Night Fights sponsored by Right Guard , anything else would be uncivilized. See ya next Tuesday at Ringside.

Two Presidents : September 11 : ONE NATION UNITED

2011-09-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

George Bush was my President .

We supported him that day, not because we may or not have voted for him , but because we are Americans .He articulated what was real.
Our anger ,our commitment, our resolve. He was my President.

Barack Obama is my President .

A president who inherited two wars and a mission to finish what President Bush had picked up on September 11 .

When it comes to national security WE ARE United !
For those who say I supported someone that they did not vote for.
I say to them .
We three have a Unbreakable Bond .
WE ARE AMERICANS ...
WE ARE ONE ....

Gospel Sunday : Remember 9/11 Still We Rise

2011-09-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

On September 11 , Our Nation was attacked .... Our spirit was attacked ....
We have had our doubts , but We must Never Doubt , that God has for us !
God is right there by our side .We have many mountains to climb, many valleys to cross ,We can do it because WE HAVE A GOOD SHEPHERD !

The Twin Towers Went Down , but like a Phoenix ....We RISE !

We Fall Down We get Up !

One of the many moments of September11 occurred on the airplane that went down in Pennyslvania .After finding out what happened to the other planes, the passengers recited the "Lords Prayer" and forced the jet down and away from its intended target , Washington D.C.
Imagine with you the passenger talking to the airport personell , knowing his last ,moments are here . He tells herto do one favor for me .Recite the Lords Prayer with me.

"The Lord is my shepherd ...
After he recited the prayer he said "Let's Roll" .
The plane missed its target ....
He like many others will be resurrected on Judgement Day .
Amen ,

Vondas'Vault Box : September Super Showdown -Battle of the Bands

2011-09-09T23:33:00.000-07:00

In Vonda's Vault Box the bands decided to roll out a Battle of the Bands ! The Bands of the 70"s and 80"s were real ! None of that techno , synthesized music ! You had to play a instrument nothing computer generated about talent!
Let's have Booty's Rubber Band ! "Stretchin Out"!

What band could top Earth Wind and FIRE!
They had all of the instruments !
All the voices and all the stage magic !!!

The bands back in the day could slow it down with a ballad . The Isleys use to have one side of their albums funk ,and the other side smooth ballads .Its all good !

There was a band from Ohio , The "Ohio Players" . When you had the guitar rift you knew it Was Skin Tight ! You a real fine lady ! "Skin Tight !

We gotta leave Vonda is talking about all the bands taking up to much room in the vault ! IT'S HOT IN HERE ! But I got a Godfather who wants to talk about BREAKING OUT IN A COLD SWEAT !
To the stage at the vault and into your computers ....
THE JAMES BROWN BAND !

Who won the battle of the bands ? We all did ! See ya next week at the vault, I will save a seat for you !

Jazzy Fridays @ Careless Whispers :Dave Koz , Sade , EWF ,and many more !

2011-09-09T20:01:00.001-07:00

This week our Jazzy Friday series opens up with the great Dave Koz and guest vocalist Montell Jordan .This is the way we do it , when we are in our Jazz set,"Careless Whisper".

We promise we gonna get down and when we do it's gonna be a funky jazz groove!
Get down on it with the late great Waymon Tisdale !

Slip some Ramsey Lewis tune "Sun Goddess " as done by Earth Wind Fire !
LET'S SEE THE SUN GODDESS SHINE !

IF YOU LIKE LIVE MUSIC , COME GET IT HERE !
Ray Parker Jr. and the Crusaders are on stage !

We are "Smooth Operators" in this jazz corner !
Sade has just walked in and she is laying down the tracks !

We will see you next week , at the jazz corner !
I will save you a seat by the band !

September 11 ,2001 We Are One

2011-09-08T21:01:00.000-07:00

September 11 , 2001 a Tuesday.
Tuesday's are days when nothing happens.
Mondays and weekends get our attention.
That Tuesday Morning changed America.

A country divided by a contentious election was slumbering through the September morning.A country hyphenated came together .
This would be the day that we would become one.
For 24 hours ,September 11.
There would be ,no black or white.
There would be no straight or gay.
There would be no young or old.
There would be no north or south.
There would be no red state or blue state.

There for a moment frozen in time .
Would be a Nation.

A NATION UNITED IN SORROW.
A NATION UNITED IN GRIEF.
A NATION UNITED IN HORROR.
A NATION UNITED IN ANGER.
A NATION UNITED, NO LONGER DIVIDED.
FINALLY A NATION .
WE ARE ONE .....
AMERICANS

September 11 ,2001 A Tuesday.

Tuesday Night Fights: George Foreman -Joe Frazier

2011-09-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

Before George Foreman sold the George Foreman Grill , he was truly a scary man .

The first George Foreman reign he was terror ,none of his fights lasted two rounds. He was Big ,6 foot 4 from Houston Texas. The man pulled jeeps in training up hills.He picked up cows and carried them on his back. He was not a man ,but a Superman !

The baddest man in boxing, the baddest man on the planet.George was Heavyweight champion of the World ! Not the friendly George Foreman of his second reign.

We now take a look at the George Foreman- Joe Frazier Heavyweight Championship ,January 1973 in Kingston Jamaica.The entire fight is seen below with the great Howard Cosell narrating."Down Goes Frazier". Six times Frazier went down!

George that night all boxing pundits agreed was a Superman.
Thanks for looking at edgray4america Tuesday Night Fights brought to you,by what else.The George Foreman Grill!
See ya next week at Ringside !

Labor Day 2011 MLK and the Unions: We Got Work To Do

2011-09-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

I spent 20 years as a Union member for the Communication Workers of AMERICA .Each year we had a Labor Day breakfast.I still attended after I became a manager.I realized then as well as now the importance of men and women and the right to organize.

At one union meeting, I urged my fellow union members to recognize that Dr.Martin Luther King Jr. was called to Memphis ,Tennessee to participate in a labor strike. It was the rights of working men ,the sanitation workers that were organizing for their collective wages and benefits that Dr. King supported.

The city government of Memphis was determined to put down the collected organizations that banded together which included labor, American Federation of State,County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and civil rights organizations such as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

The events of April 4,1968 silenced not only the most preeminent Civil Rights icon of the ages ,but also one of America"s Labor Martyrs.Dr. King is gone ,his Dream still lives ,and WE ALL GOT WORK TO DO !
Happy Labor Day !

Gospel Sunday :HE IS ABLE,featuring Kirk ,Aretha , Marvin and The SPIRIT !

2011-09-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

I like the Morning , and I pray it likes me !I know there is only one who could wake me up !It's God ,didn't do it on my own ! Proof: Take a alarm clock to the cemetery ,and set it.
ONLY GOD CAN WAKE UP AND RESURRECT.
HE IS THE ONLY ONE.

My friend and classmate Yolanda Samuel testifies this morning :
Faith is being willing to trust God -
turning your hopes and problems over to Him and trusting in His wisdom -
and knowing that somehow everything will turn out for the best. No
matter how difficult or dark things become, there is always a light.
Happy Sunday friends!
THE LORD WILL MAKE A WAY !

Rev. Craig Christman is preaching about "Standing Against The Devil" .
GOD HE IS ABLE !

If its broken ,I know I can put superglue on it ,
but only JESUS CAN FIX IT !
From a little church in Memphis to a big White House in Washington !

Pastor Bryan Carter of Concord Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas , is preaching about "MAN UP" to discover "The Definition of a Man .God Bless !
HIS EYE IS ON THE SPARROW !

LIKE THE SPARROW I WILL HAVE TO FLY AWAY.

Hold your head up and Keep the Faith ! Gospel Sunday !
Thank you and God Bless !

Vonda's Vault Box : Its September ! EWF & Usher

2011-09-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

Vonda's Vault Box is back in stride again for another September. As it us for us in the vault, its finally cooling off ,but the old joints never cool off. Maurice White and EWF begin today with "September ".

For some of us in the vault ,September brings back bad memories.
Dallas's own Johnnie "The Wailer " Taylor sings "Its September ".

It looks like like the Old Skool men want to croon today !
If you find you along ways from Home " Call Me" !

The young brothers in the old vault , are harmonizing this morning !
Live from the Kliff Klubb , Lol oh naw it's Little Rock's club "Elevations " .

The youngsters in the old vault , got Vonda and the ladies up dancing !
Usher Raymond is doing what he does best in the vault.
"Yeah " ! Rewind the blog ... It's time to go !

Jazzy Friday: My Ladies Sing The Blues

2011-09-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

This Friday's Jazz set is about the ladies. They are incredible , they are beautiful, they are talented .They sing the blues, they sing jazzy, they do it all.
We give you this Friday a jazzy >>> Harlem Blues @ Cynda Williams.

"The Boss" Diana Ross was a Lady who brought millions of new admirers to Billie Holiday's styles of jazz ! A super star from back in the day sings about Lady Day !

The Boss is cold but there was and only will be one Billie Holiday !
Here Billie Holiday sings about the Strange Fruit .....Listen careful. Message.

Before rap delivered Lady Day delivered a strong message !

Down south all things are not always gloomy! Here Stevie Wonder and Queen Latifah sing about "Georgia Rose ". Stevie on harmonica ! Giving assist to the ladies !

Well we slowed down this train to let you get caught up with all the Jazz standards of this past ! Next week the pace will pick up as our conductor for Jazzy Friday's Casey the conductor says we got to take the A train !
With Chaka Khan , and George Duke !

See ya next week, I got a train to catch !

Tuesday Night Fights: Tyson - Spinks

2011-08-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

I grew up in the era when there was one heavyweight champion . You didn't have to guess who the champion was . It was just one . There was no distinction between WBA,WBC ,IBF champions . That's the way boxing should be . One man One Title.

Mike Tyson and Michael Spinks met to clear up the heavyweight confusion in the heavyweight ranks , It was a different day .The fight was promoted by Don King , promoted by Donald Trump, and endorsed by Muhammad Ali .
At ringside was Robin Givens.

Tuesday Night Fights brings you the classic Tyson-Spinks fight in its entirety.

Tuesday Night fights brought to you by Diet Pepsi ,you tube,and edgray4america.

Until next week , I will save you a seat at ringside.

Money Madness Monday: Pigs Do Fly -Nations on Borrowed Time

2011-08-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

Money Madness Money returns .This time just a brief message on PIGS!
PIGS are the counties of Portugal , Ireland , Greece , and Spain!
The debt ceiling debacle is resolved . The next financial crisis is the failure of these counties or any of the four .

If the Tea Party activists had their way we would have been joining the PIGS! If any of these counties fail , he crisis will be felt on Wall Street.Imagine Italy down the tubes , and Ireland down the tubes , America has a large anmount of its population that descended from these countries.

If these countries fail economically a boomerang that will devastate America and Western Europe.American political pressure from voters who have a genealogical ties to Ireland ,and Greece will see to it that these countries do not fail economically.

Meanwhile the two former colonial powers of Portugal and Spain have seen their best days behind them .These two countries stand on the precipice of disaster.
One bad move can lead to financial meltdown .This meltdown is soul sapping on a sick America economy .

We will have to get busy.Today is the day our economy must turn around .
Lower your debt,stay focused ,and jump back in to the game and buy stocks.
Let's do this !

Gospel Sunday : Don't Give Up Through The Storm

2011-08-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

The recent storms and earthquakes remind me of how life is. We are either in a storm ,just left a storm ,or headed to a storm .We must keep our eyes on the prize.Though our spirit may falter , we must put our hands in the hands of The Man from Galilee.
Gospel Sunday opens up with Fred Hammond .
He sings "A Song of Strength " .

Hurricanes, Earthquakes ,Tornadoes can come and go.They are mere moments that test our fortitude ,our strength,our character,our spirit. We must allways find someone to lean on. Family ,friends , even strangers , can lean on us , and we can LEAN ON EACH OTHER.The spirtual weathercast has been forecasted : We are in a storm .
"LEAN ON ME"

Though the storm might be fierce,the rain of sorrow must never drown out the sunshine of hope. We must allways Keep our Head to the sky.Because we can Win, stay optimistic.
Sounds of Blackness - "Optimistic" .

In life things don't always work out the way we want it. Through the storm , we must never give up, we must stay optimistic, and finish the race .Sometimes we have to lean on our Father ,he will give us direction ,the energy ,the courage to finish the race.The triumph of the will is the spirit that lives in all of us.Thank you for allowing me to share ,and God Bless.

LBJ : The Best President for Black Folk

2011-08-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

Today marks the birthday of the greatest political liberator with the exception of Martin Luther King Jr. for African -Americans in the 20th century.
His name LBJ: for young folks LBJ stands for Lyndon Baines Johnson, not Lebron James.Let's Flashback and prove our thesis statement .LBJ had more impact on black America than any other president.

I have had some colleagues offering questions to my social media sites to challenge my political positions.I submit to them this morning:The greatest president for the United States in regards to being an change agent with direct impact on millions of black folk was LBJ.

Flashbacks: Summer,1963 : The "March on Washington" had not occurred. Dr. King's dream speech was not given yet.President Kennedy's Civil Rights Bill was languishing in Congress. Presiding over the powerful Senate committees were arch segregationist Democratic senators. The vice president was a good old boy from Texas. Lyndon Johnson. His job to use his influence to help pass the bill.

Flashback: November 22 ,1963 :President Kennedy in a campaign trip ,yes that was what it was. A campaign trip for the 1964 election was assassinated in the southern city of Dallas. Violence in the south was a contagion. President Kennedy dies and many now question whether the Civil Rights Bill died with him.

Flashback: The Johnson treatment.A relentless full force of energy ,threats , charm , promises ,and ego. Johnson uses every political lever under his command to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964 . Overcoming southern Democratic leaders .LBJ appeals to moderate Republicans.Republicans who worked for bipartisanship because it was right.Republicans &Democrats both voted for Civil Rights bills in 1964 southern Democrats did not.

Flashback:Civil Rights marchers are terrorized by Southern segregationist terrorism.While the Kennedy brothers offered deals to placate the political leaders of Alabama and Mississippi. Johnson took direct control by sending in the United States Army to protect the Voting Acts Marchers in Alabama.
Subsequently the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed into law. Thus liberating millions of black folk in the south who could not exercise heir constitutional right to vote.

Flashback: Neshoba County: 3 Civil Rights activists were missing. Things like that happened in Mississippi all the time .LBJ sends in the US Army and Navy " I want ya'll to drain every swamp and bring them boys back home to their mama"s." The 3 Civil Rights activists bodies were found .

Flash forward : Before you could get an Obama ,you had to have the right to vote.

Black America didn't .Basic civil rights were routinely, and systematically violated.Johnson stopped that too.Leadership starts from the top ,and if it was not for LBJ ,Civil Rights and the gains of the last 48 years would not have occurred . Thank you and Happy Birthday President Johnson !

Vonda's Vault Box : Funkin For YA

2011-08-26T23:49:00.000-07:00

The Vault is steamy today ! Vonda is throwing out all the cuts because she got it like that way ! She is in the inspiration and I am the perspiration for the best video back in the day blog in the history of man !
"I Just Want To Be " !

tHROWIN dOWN WITH rICK jAMES =============== You and I "
He's Rick James ^^%$^

There is a car parked out side the vault that is double parked next to the lime green Pacer with the red rims ! Someone please move the "Little Red Corvette " !

In the vault" It's nothing but a gangsta party with Amerikas Most Wanted ".If you want an explicit version go to VIP in Vonda's Vault !

As we close down the Vault today ... We pay honor to one legend that never had a time to blossom ... Aaliyah who proved age was nothing but a number ...Legends Die Young . RIP Aaliyah .....

Until the next time we see you walk through the vault !

Jazzy Friday : R & B Connection

2011-08-26T22:33:00.000-07:00

Jazzy Friday features the Rand B connection . Thats a connection where you say , man I heard that song ! We will play jazz each Friday and every Friday for u and the American people.This Friday we open with former NBA ALL star Waymon Tisdale .
"We can't Hide Love " for the love of our music.

The Love for Music knows no bounds , Najee talks about "Sweet Love " .
Anita Baker standard done instrumental sound , a love that is so Sweet.

Loves our theme for tonight .Norman Brown says 'Thats the Way Love Goes" . We gotta do it, it's a smooth groove for us all !

"Human Nature " by Miles Davis is a classic , listen to this mellowed , tune that wishes us all to be in the nature of LoVE !

Our Jazz Blog goes into overtime , thanks Casey for requesting and asking "Where's the Jazz ". Its right here ! The Jazz R and B Connection !

We leave you this week for the hour is short , but the music is long !
We will creep out of here with Fourplay as they cover Marvin Gaye's " After The Dance".

We will see you next week around the corner Jazz Corner .

Womens Day 2011 : Still They Rise

2011-08-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Women's Independence Day is August 26 on this day the in 1920 19 th Amendment was ratified given women the right to vote. With the stroke of the pen Universal suffrage was at last a fact for all American citizens . It was a long battle for self determination was realized.

Still women to this day see a glass ceiling. With each passing generation that ceiling cracks. From reordering the newspapers to ban the "Women's section' to equal pay laws that grant women the same economic opportunities of men.

Still they rise ,like a phoenix , out of the ashes to save humanity. As legislators, politicians ,doctors ,lawyers,and much more they are reordering American society to make it inclusive. We are only as strong as our weakest link, and women are our backbone.
Thank you Ladies !
Happy Women's Independence Day 2011 !

Tuesday Night Fights : Muhammad Ali- Cleveland Williams

2011-08-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of boxing , and in Tuesday Night Fights will be one of the staples of this blog. This is a takeoff on Tuesday Night Fights of years back .
Back in the day fighters are better than what we have today.

In our first installment , we will look at Muhammad Ali at his best, in his prime. The speed and power of Ali was demonstrated in Houston Texas ,at the Astrodome. The defense of his title against number 1 contender Cleveland Williams.

In Round 1 ,Ali won the first round by dancing around the ring , using his superior speed , footwork , and tremendous punching power .Ali aka Cassius Clay displayed the "Ali Shuffle".

In Round 2 , more of the same. Williams goes down by a terrific combination. Williams gets back up and is knocked down again . Williams is floored for a third time at the bell.

In Round 3 Ali shuffles to victory ! Look at the footwork of the Greatest! The ref stops the fight after the fourth knockdown.
Winner and Stll Champion !
Muhammad Ali !

Tuesday Night Fights brought to you by DCON Roach Traps !

See ya next week , I will save you a seat ringside !

Nick Ashford ( Ashford & Simpson ) 1941-2011

2011-08-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

Nick Ashford has passed away. Ashford the male half of the dynamic husband-wife songwriting team comprised of him and wife Valerie Simpson were prolific songwriters for over four generations.The duo received acclamation by being part of the Motown song writing factory producing hits for virtual every Motown artist.
My all time favorite was recorded by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell,
"Ain't No Mountain High Enough"

The couple steamy and endearing duets were touching because they exemplified long lasting love.
" It Seems To Hang On "

It"s been a long time since the music industry had a couple write songs of love that touched many. It was Good to Us .
" Is It Still Good To Ya"

For Loves Sakes Each Mistake You Forgave. NO mistake that Ashford and Simpson were one of the greatest song writing duos of all time .
NICK ASHFORD "SOLID".
RIP

Monday Football: Unsung Hero Larry English

2011-08-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

This NFL Season will bring forth heroes on the field. The season will start and we will root for our favorite players action on the field. It is what they do off the field that distinguishes them from athletes to heroes. I bear witness that the spirit of man never dies as long as you help others.

Larry English the Northern Illinois standout

who now plays for the San Diego Chargers is a role model who takes time to help the community.English is a beast on the field and a gentleman off the field.
The San Diego Chargers number one pick in the 2009 draft,and the 16th pick overall is making his presence felt in a meaningful way.

The amazing feat that Larry English accomplishes this on the field , while serving as a spokesman for American Lung Association . English battles asthma with the same ferocity that he displays on the field. "As an individual living with asthma, I truly understand the challenges this disease presents" says Larry.

Larry English and his mom Susan English give back daily as heroes and heroines of humanity.They prove that you can be a champion by what youdo off the field.
Thanks Susan and Larry for all you do !

Gospel Sunday :Joy Cometh This Morning

2011-08-21T08:03:00.000-07:00

This Sunday Gospel Sunday we look forward with prayers for all of your students as as they leave home for college .We pray for those who are with us as they start the school year. We pray for those who are without work and those who are with work that they manage their finances to success. Gospel Sunday says ,'No Weapon Formed Against Me ".

" I Know I Have Been Changed" have patience with me God Is not finished with me.GOD ONLY JUDGES, I wait on his direction .

I am Walking to MY HOLY FATHER , I am To Close To Turn Around !
I see you William !

Get Up We cab

In Life we are in a Battle , We Get Hit , We Fall Down , We Get Up ! We All Know' .Weeping may endure for a night , but Joy cometh in the morning ! It'sMorning Get Up !

Surely GOD IS ABLE TO CARRY US THROUGH ,If HE says the same we will see you next week !

Friend Of Ed : Liz Mikel : Carter Alumnus and Movie Actress

2011-08-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight , August 20 ,2011 Liz Mikel and friends are playing at the Dallas Music Hall at Fair Park ! Enjoy Quality Entertainment from Liz Mikel .
A true jewel !

I remember Liz Mikel from our days at Carter High School in Dallas,Texas .It is a rare treat to see people who have followed their passion as children to adults .

Many years spent perfecting her craft in the theater has produced roles in film , stage,and music. From Friday Night Lights to the Addision WaterTower, she has proven that she is quite a Woman !

A standard by many but mastered by few. Liz Mikel does justice to this standard: "My Funny Valentine" .

The acting skills of Liz were featured in " Roscoe Jenkins".

Catch a Rising Star ,and put in your pocket.
Thanks Liz for all you do!

Vonda's Vault Box : Old Skool Jamz

2011-08-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

The Vault Box needs some air conditioning .This box fan from Treasure City just don't get it . We keep our treasures in our memories and music, so let's kick off the Weekend with ....

If the Elevator Tries to bring You Down ,Go cRAzY .....

NO SCRUBS ALLOWED IN THE VAULT ... Tell em TLC .... The Vault don't play that, we only play good music .....

Gotta Slow it Down.... What Kind of A Man Would I Be. If I didn't play Love Ballad ! Who singing the harmony in here !

We gotta go and now we play the exit music for the Vomda's Vault Box Collection.For Those Who Like to Groove ....

Jazzy Friday :Warm Weather Groove

2011-08-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

My folks at Brooklyns asked me what happened to my Jazzy Fridays , so this set is dedicated to the phone calls received from my peeps and others who want us to get back in the groove.This is ALL I DO ...
Kirk Whalum opens up with , Memphis Soul himself ...Play that sax.

So sweet to be missed .... "Sweet Love ' as done by Boney James !

The Crusaders featuring Ray Parker Jr. play brother , who you gonna call !
Ray is the MAN !

Love Me Some Miles Davis : "It's Human Nature"

Until Next week , maybe I will see you this week at
the best jazz club in Dallas @ Brooklyns.

Clutch Decision : Drew Pearson Gets Ring Of Honor

2011-08-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

Jerry Jones made a clutch decision today.In his continuing quest to honor all Cowboys who were great contributors to this storied franchise added one more star. He threw to the original.Before we got the Playmaker,we had Mr, Clutch Drew Pearson.

The unheralded Tulsa University flanker was not drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, but came into the league as a free agent.The Dallas Cowboys got one of the best deals of the day.Drew before he became Mr. Clutch was a quarterback at South River High School in New Jersey, where he succeeded Joe Theismann. Drew signed with the Dallas Cowboys where he followed Bob Hayes as the primary go to Dallas Cowboy receiver.

Several weeks ago Drew and myself talked about him possibly being inducted into the Ring Of Honor.Drew ever classy smiled and said ,"We will see" .Well today , Mr.Clutch will be in the Ring Of Honor ,the original clutch performer .Thanks Drew for the memories !

One of the best memories was the "Hail Mary " 1975 Divisional Play Off Game.Let's take a trip back in the way back machine tO 1975 .In the below clip you can see the game in its entirety, or if you want to see the "Hail Mary" catch roll the highlights to the end , Cowboys Win ! Cowboys Win !

Monday Money Madness ! Check Your A$$etts

2011-08-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

The first installment of Monday Money Madness is about checking the value of your 401 K. With all the jokes about 401 K being 301 K , we probably need to check more often. Financial Analyst Phillip Lowe told me that that investors should be smart and be more discerning .

Lowe states in his recent message :
My friend, it's not just how often you look but what you look at... Most lay people look at their investment on the basis of how they've done or how they're doing. In each case, they're using their rear view mirror only. A professional... worth their salt looks predominately out the front window to see how the portfolio will do based on what he sees coming in light of how it's currently positioned and how it performed in the past. There is a distinct difference... :-)

That being said, watch your money in your 401 K just like you watch your gas hand. See you next week , and hopefully we will both have more money in our pockets !

Vonda's Vault Box : It's Raining Mix

2011-08-13T07:06:00.000-07:00

The video blog Vonda's Vault Box continues with a summer surprise ! Just in time to cool us all off from this summer heatwave . We woke up to the sounds of rain and oh my goodness ! The vault records are wet ! AND I left the windows down on the pacer ,it may sound crazy I gotta go outside ....

Ann you have been in the vault locked up too long ! We need the rain chile, tell her Vonda , We need the Rain !

On a perfect day I can count on you , but can you stand the rain , Kick it with New Edition !

Until next week as we close the valut down for a rain delay. Let's enjoy the rain before we go back to the Texas Summer !

In the vault with all the best music video blogs! Rihanna where is my umbrella !

Deion Goes Into the NFL Hall of Fame and thats The Truth

2011-08-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

Its Final !

The NFL Hall of Fame inductions now has its latest STAR ! Deion Sanders is now the latest Cowboy to be in the Hall . There was a poster that I once had, that I gave to a family member.It said simply that water covers 3/4 of the earth and Deion covers the rest. It was true , Deion could shut down the corner ,a whole side of the field.There was no player that could do that before , no one has did it since.

Deion's flair for style , often overshadowed his substance. The substance of dedicated professional who swung the balance of power from San Francisco to Dallas . Each year during the 90's it was a Deion show. Who had Deion would be the victor in those NFC Championship Games.

Deion's greatest achievement is in what he does off the field.The Prime Time Show is best observed in the sun drenched pastures of the Lancaster , Texas. It was in that field during last years Super Bowl Weekend , that he received notification that he would be entering into the NFL Hall of Fame.It is that work through his "Truth Football" team that will be his true Hall of Fame moment for humanity.

The Deion Sanders legacy will not be the flashy suits,the awe inspiring football career, but the words of wisdom , the thoughtful deeds not advertised or publicized as he molds young men to be not only football players but better men.

Thanks Deion for what you did on the field , but off the field as well . And That's THE TRUTH !

Pretty Ricky Is What They Call Him : Gov Perry Runs for President

2011-07-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

Years back in the sitcom "Martin" ,there was a skit about Martin Lawrence's class reunion.In this class reunion Martin did battle with the class favorite ,"Pretty Ricky " is what they called him.

In today's political world Governor Rick Perry of Texas will emerge as one the GOP candidate's to challenge President Barack Obama.

Governor Perry and myself had the opportunity to talk job creation several years back.

The Texas economy is one of the pillars that Governor Perry will be running on. Texas as you know is a right to work state ,with an inexhaustible supply of labor from across the border.(We can talk illegal immigration another time).

One of the strong suits that Governor Perry has going for him is that the GOP field is still trying to field a frontrunner that has energized the base.Governor Sarah Palin and Speaker Newt Gingrich are making more money being themselves and selling their books ,appearances etc . Michelle Bachman is making inroads and appears to be a "Tea Party" favorite and Governor Mitt Romney moderate appeal f or swing voters is not helping him with the GOP faithful .Also he signed a health care legislation in Massachusetts that reminds some GOP of Obamacare. Just a quick note to my GOP friends before any other criticisms of Obamacare,you got to admit OBAMACARE looks a lot like the health care proposals championed by 1996 GOP presidential candidate ,Bob Dole.

Bottom Line , Governor Perry has just steered Texas through a special session , and he is visiting key states and calling folks in key states such as in Iowa ,and South Carolina.

Testing the waters no doubt .It's a matter of time before "Pretty Ricky" will be in the race.The biggest obstacle that Governor Rick might have in regards to getting traction for the GOP nomination,is Texas Fatigue .People might be tired of Governors from Texas.

Happy 4th of July ! Patriotic Songs for all Americans !

2011-07-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July !Each year as we celebrate America's freedom it gives me time to to reflect on the greatness of this country.I think of the Founding Father's and their desire to start a new governmental system .I think of a Civil War that liberated millions of American that the Founding Fathers forgot about .I think of a peaceful Civil Rights revolution that reminded Americans that we should all be free. As we go to the various parades, bar b ques ,and family gatherings, let us all be reminded that freedom is not free. God Bless America , and God Bless those brave soldiers on foreign shores that they come home to enjoy those same freedoms we observe today.
My favorite version of our National Anthem ! From Marvin Gaye !

I learned this song in first grade ,like many of us ! Ray Charles sings America the Beautiful !

Beyonce sings our National Anthem !

Our tribute to America would not be complete if we didn't add America the Beautiful to the collection.Let's close out with Tyrese singing our National Anthem , and Jaime Foxx singing America the Beautiful ! GOD BLESS AMERICA , and GOD BLESS YOU !

Texas Education Not A Top 25 Team

2011-06-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

Texas Education Does Not Warrant A Bowl Game, if our education was a football team we wouldn't rate as a top 25 team. The best go to bowl games , the best education system guarantees a healthy economy. The recent special session of the Texas legislature passed a budget that would drastically cut education in the state of Texas' public schools.

Our economy is bad and as a result our public schools will lose 4 billion dollars in state funding.In order to balance the budget, we in the state of Texas have decided to balance the budget on the backs of 3rd graders. 3rd graders should only need to balance their backpacks.

For us to compete in the United States , and yes around the globe we have to educate our children. We need to do better than rate 44 out of 50 states in spending for education.WE MUST DO BETTER THAN THIS....

As a member of the Grand Prairie Education Foundation, I have seen first hand what teachers go through. I have helped raise $$$ money for Grand Prairie schools. We have awarded scholarships to students, we have provided $$$ for schools ,as we have sent students to cultural events. These are the stakes,with public founding lacking the private sector must step up. We must step up ,because cuts will force our students to sit down.Join with me as we save our legacy, our children. Support the various Education Foundations in your school districts ,the child we save,may be our own.

AIDS : 30 Years Later

2011-06-28T19:39:00.000-07:00

It was in 1981 that AIDS burst on the scene. As a young man of nineteen ,my awareness of certain issues had not developed.I was not concerned about the AIDS epidemic because at that time it was primarily in the gay community.Being that I was not gay it was not high on my priority list.

The epidemic then spread to the black community as drug addicts contracted the disease. Being that I didn't take drugs, no concern again.

The epidemic then took a turn,it was discovered that the infection rate among black
heterosexuals was raising.Magic Johnson brought this awareness to everyone, male or female,gay or straight.I was concerned.

Then the black community looked upon this scourge a a curse, a curse from the government .With a history of government exposure and experimentation regarding diseases .Remember the Tuskegee Experiment. Perhaps it was true,awareness was the name of the game.I became concerned.

My concern for AIDS and HIV ,heightened when a co-worker contracted HIV.I called my co-worker who,welcomed my voice,because it was a remindeer of life.You see those who contracted HIV back then were shunned by the community.
The hip hop community was one of the first groups outside of the gay community who talked about and increased awareness if the disease.Long before te nation began to take a more active role in the treatment ,Salt n Pepa put it on ourradar screens.

In two places , Oak Cliff and my birthplace of Washington D.C. HIV Rates have soared in both communities. 30 years later we are all concerned. Concern , Awareness ,Straight ,Gay, Black,White, and still no cure. We must find a cure for each group affected by this disease. If we are not infected ,we must all be affected.We must be affected by our humanity,a humanity that says we are all tied by this common thread -called life.

Gospel Sunday : Amazing Grace How Sweet the Sound

2011-06-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

"Amazing Grace" How Sweet the Sound ,that saved a wretch like me.It is a song that is deeply spirtual. A call to God and a plea that we are all human.It is a song that is truly American, a song that unites blacks and white.Written by a slave trader who saw the error of his ways, a spirtual rebirth that saved him and continues to touch millions of others as they reach to touch the hand of God.

A song that is sung from the deepest canyons of our hearts.From South Dallas to Soweto. From the jail cells to mansions .From the Homeless to the Upperclass. We all are the same , sinners who seek Amazing Grace.

A Song That Unites All in our suffering.A song that unites us all in our hope for redeemption. A song for the ages. At first I was was lost , now I am found ....

His Grace is sufficient. Amazing Grace is what we need to get by today. Because Joy cometh in the morning.

We got up this morning it was Nothing But Grace !
We will all pray for grace -I pray that he gives us the AMAZING GRACE to see you next week. God Bless You ! and I will say a prayer for my friend and union brother Jimmy D. God is with you Jimmy , just hold on my friend.

Vonda"s Vault Box "The After PARTY "

2011-06-25T20:54:00.001-07:00

Vonda zipped into Dallas to attend the DJ Scorpo and Wendy Wen's Faboulous White party recently !Those two guys Wen and Scorpio are doing it death !

We just had to time to get back into the vault , because aftet the party there is the After PARTY !So it looks like this video blog ain't on time, but the party was on time ! Lets take a Fantastic Voyage !

It's been two years since Michael Jackson left this world , we will will always remember how he rocked this world !

New Jack Music in the Vault will never Die ! Groove with us and Guy !

Goodbye Love - we gotta go - We gotta catch up Wendy and Skorpio .I am glad that I can still look in Vonda's Vaultbox for the latest in Old Skool ...
Until next time.....

Al Lipscomb 1925-2011: Agitator For Justice

2011-06-25T14:08:00.001-07:00

Al Lipscomb is gone. His legacy however will live on . Many in the Dallas black community loved him for being as he stated "agitator for justice". To understand Al , you need to understand the times. Dallas and America was remarkably different when Al lead street protests in the 60"s and early 70"s.

There were no black presidents, Obama was in grade school and Nixon was in the White House.The Dallas basketball team wasn't the Mavericks ,it was the the ABA Dallas Chapparals,and the majority of Dallas was disenfranchised from having a voice .The voiceless was the southern sector comprised of working class folk ,black and white. Dallas was ruled by a select few of upper class white buisnessmen who controlled Dallas through the Dallas Citizens Council.Dallas was at the crossroads and a select few controlled the narrative ,and they did so by by portraying Dallas as a opportunity for all , but for many the options were indeed limited.

Think of a freeway think of a leader, Stemmons ,Woodall Rogers,Carpenter etc.They controlled Dallas by their buisness acumen and sheer political power .The vote was not gerrymandered because those in control,controlled the vote.The Voting Rights had not been extennded to Texas ,that would occur in 1975.Before the Voting Rights Act, Al Lipscomb was there.

Al was the first black man to run for Mayor in Dallas. He did in a time that the most favorite Democrat in Dallas county was named George Wallace not George McGovern.

Al joined the civil rights struggle in the 60's before there was a MLK Day,and led street protests from his South Dallas headquarters.Al gave voice to the voiceless who didn't have a voice downtown.Most black folk at that time observed the southern custom of getting along without upsetting the apple cart. You see that was "The Dallas Way" . Al followed his own way because he was a trailblazer.

He ran for mayor in 1971 he came in 3rd ,impressive but he lost the first black to run more impressive, he ran for school board and lost, he ran for County Commissioner and lost.He won by losing.The results of him losing had the intended effect of affecting change.Two things changed from Al Lipscomb's evolution from street protest to electoral engagement.They are things we take for granted the extension of the Voting Right Act to cover Texas which was done in 1975,and the the ending of the at large municipal electoral system and the creation of the present day electoral system in Dallas.

Al will be missed ,because he was trailblazer who upset the apple cart. Many are called agitators for freedom and justice after they have passed. Al joins many other far more well known agitators, Martin Luther King ,and George Washington ,both agitated for freedom and justice. All three had their time to affect change .Their time has passed. It is now our time.

Jazzy Friday : Sanborn ,Jill Scott,Benson ,Miles , Alex Bugnon

2011-06-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

This week as we sail into the first Weekend of Summer.Let's kick it up to Chicago where the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha are making it Ice Cold in June !
David Sanborn is cold too as he blows a strong sax into Chicago !

Ice Cold or Not , It's a Texas Summer! It's just as hot as Jill Scott and George Benson, who tell us that sumertime living is easy !

I need some Ice Cold Watermelon on a day like this ....Here comes Miles Davis The Watermelon Man!

Alex Bugnon takes us out with the Dallas forecast tomorrow ....
108 Degrees n the Shade !

Till next week , stay cool ! But always remain Hott !

Junetenth Songs For Your Spirit

2011-06-17T18:22:00.000-07:00

On June 19 ,1865 General Gordon Granger landed on the beaches of Galveston Island and liberated the enslaved Americans of Texas from their Texan captors . Ever since then we ,Americans , Black and white , Texans and others have rejoiced the last liberators of the American Civil War . Today in this Junetenth weekend of 2011 this blog celebrates some of the most inspirational human rights songs of the past 25 year era .
First We must Get up Stand up !

When we get up , we must keep moving on Up !

Wake Up everybody !

And when you up wake up , Remember Dream !

Your Dallas Mavericks -The Time Is Now !

2011-06-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

Your Dallas Mavericks have won the NBA Championship ! Let's party with Bentley Green who tells like it is ! We go hard on the paint,you Know it !

It's been a long time ! I was there at the first game at the new state of the art Reunion Arena !You remember that place we used to call home ,the ReUnion Rowdies. It was October 30 ,1980 and they played that team from San Antonio. The San Antonio Spurs! The Spurs formerly played in the ABA as the Dallas Chapparrals .I think we won that game. Oh no, We didn't but what could I say ! That team had the likes of Jim Sparnekle and Abdul Jelani ! But we had heart ! Thanks Norm Sonju and Don Carter for bringing them here ,and who could forget Coach Dick Motta !

You remember the mid and late 80's when Ro ,Sam Perkins and Mark played b ball and we tried to beat LA ! That was before you tube and twitter !The Lakers had our number and we had to wait for the time !

We thought our time had come when we had the 3 J"s . Jimmy Jackson , Jamal Mashburn ,and Jason Kidd !It was close but our time had not arrived!

Dirk Arrived and Steve Nash Arrived , but the time left ! We proved we were long suffering !

And Finally Our Time - The Time is Now !

Mike Tyson Fights His Way Into the Boxing Hall of Fame

2011-06-12T10:33:00.001-07:00

Mike Tyson has entered in the Boxing Hall of Fame ! During the early 80's it was widely ,and undisputedly known that he was the baddest man on the planet.

The only thing that conquered Mike was his ego and a bad night in Tokoyo. I can tell you about that on another blog post.But let us celebrate Mike Tyson - as we know him at his best.

A pure unadulterated punching machine,a machine that instilled fear,and for three mnutes a round sheer excitement.Mike Tyson enters in the Hall of Fame based on what he did in the early 80's not losing efforts against Lennox Lewis, the biting and loss to Evander Holyfield,and the aforementioned beat down in Tokoyo.Mike was Super Man and a overall a gentle person with demons like most.But he got paid to expose his.

Vonda's Vault Box " After Party "

2011-06-05T15:52:00.000-07:00

Vonda zipped into Dallas to attend the DJ Scorpo and Wendy Wen's Faboulous White party recently !Those two guys Wen and Scorpio are doing it death !

We just had to time to get back into the vault , because aftet the party there is the After PARTY !So it looks like this video blog ain't on time, but the party was on time ! Lets take a Fantastic Voyage !

It's been two years since Michael Jackson left this world , we will will always remember how he rocked this world !

New Jack Music in the Vault will never Die ! Groove with us and Guy !

Goodbye Love - we gotta go - We gotta catch up Wendy and Skorpio .I am glad that I can still look in Vonda's Voultbox for the latest in Old Skool ...
Until next time.....

Memorial Day 2011:Saving America Edition

2011-05-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

Freedom Never Comes Cheap ,Freedom Never Comes Easy .
From a you tube clip today I got this statement from BrutallyHonest
I'm sure they didnt fight this hard so kids today can blast their rap music & rattle peoples cars & disturb everyone around them.Iwish todays society had a little more honor in America.I'm sad how things have turned out after watching this.America has become a sissified,I dont wana work hard, with a"EveryBody owes me attitude."We have great Americans today.But,the bad out weighs the good.If todays society was the mind set in the 40's we may have lost the damn war.Its time to restore honor.

My Memorial Day Statement for all of us , as we observe on this day 29th day of May 2011 . In the tenth year of our POST 911-World .
For each generation,many answer the clarion call for freedom.As we go our way to the numerous holiday activities let us not forget.It is not the BBQ that makes this a special day,it is the sacrifice of those soldiers who have served that makes this a hallowed day.
It is from Valley Forge to Afghanistan and Iraq to Osama Bin Laden's bedroom ,patriots have trodden the blood stained fields for our rights that we often take for granted.My generation has went from the days in which our soldiers were outcasts in a society that did not want them to heroes we welcome back from war at DFW airport.

My mother and myself prayed for his return.For all those who have served and those who are serving.The prayer I had for my father when I was eight years old,I say again for you ...
Dear God,Help them come home .
Because we need them here,but since they are over there.Be There with them.Walk with them,talk with them,so that we may one day,walk and talk again as a family.
Amen>>>

Friday Jazz Mourns : Gil Scott Heron April 1, 1949 -- May 27, 2011

2011-05-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Gil Scott Heron the reknowned jazz poet died today , he was 62 .He was known as a revolutionary and poet of the free consciouss movement.Scott-Heron was quoted as the first change occurrs in your mind.Gil was born in Chicago, and was the son of Jamaican immigrant father Gil Scott and a Chicago teacher Bobbi Heron.
Gil Scott Heron is best known for his song -poet "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised ".He was only eighteen when it was recorded. Within five years he recorded 3 albums ,2 novels ,and a book of poetry .

Scott -Heron was a social actvist who wasan action oriented activist who rapped about everything from apartheid to nu nukes.
Gil Scott-Heron's social activism spoke of the social ills of the Ghetto !
IT WAS IN THE BOTTLE !

Scott -Heron battled and papped of the ills that afflicted the community through the drug abuse of the counterculture . In his classic "Angel Dust ". It went like this ...
Gil spoke of electoral politics of the Reagan era;fighting APARTHEID !
One of all my favorites,I remember singing the lyrics @ El Centro with Kwame Toure at our Apartheid conference in 1986 .You may also know Toure as Stokely Carmichael !
Whats's The Word ? JOHANNESBURG !

RIP GILL !
The Revolution will not be digitized.
The Revolution will not accept you as a friend on Facebook;
The Revolution will not be available as a tweet in less than 140 characters
The Revolution will not be uploaded to You Tube or available as a download on Hulu.
The Revolution will not be digitized

Jim Brown and the Best NFL Rushers of All Time

2011-05-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

The newest entry in the Edgray4America video blog is the Football Monday Series.
In a spirited conversation recently at Diverse Cutz in Arlington we talked about the best rushers in NFL History.
Part I of the series listed NFL Rushers 10-6 .
10: OJ Simppson
9 Earl Cambell
8-Jerome Bettis
7-Curtis Martin
6- Tony Dorsett
Number 5 on the list is one of my favorite runners , "The Sealy Express " , the second half of "The Pony Express" , Eric Dickerson. My man from SMU !

Number 4 The Texas Connection continues with the only Rusher I met personally! Thanks Ron Fry for introducing me and Emmit years ago when we both were coming up !
"Go Emmit" The NFL All Time Leading Rusher !
There was none tougher than Emmitt Smith !

Number 3 Barry Sanders - He played with an sub par Detriot Lion team ,and he could have broken the All time Leading Rushing record , but he retired on top !

Number 2: Two Words 'Walter Payton " Sweetness !
Combination of Toughness , Speed , and Dignity !

Number 1 - The Greatest of All Time - Jim Brown !
Every football player that passes Jim Brown's rushing record is still compared to Jim Brown ! There is no player that had higher rushing avrage , and he played in a 12 game season unlikethe others who played in a 16 and 14 game season !
Jim Brown number One - The Greatest of ALL TIME !
SPEED ,POWER ,ELUSIVENESS -
9 seasons - 8 Rushing Titles !

Until Next Week At The Cutz !

Gospel Sunday : It"s 6 o Clock

2011-05-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

At church in Mississippi this past Spring Break with Kim Elmazi and Donta McGilvery ...
If you are reading this ,you know the world did not end at 6 pm on May 21 ,2011. We as believers in the faith ,know that no man knows the hour ,we have to be dilligent.For each one of us 6 o clock comes at a different time.
But when I leave ,I want to go up a yonder !

I am still waiting ,when the Gates swing open I will walk in !

Sometimes I wonder if I can get in , but when I do .....

And when I get to Heaven, I am going to stomp !
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.

Whether you roll with Kirk or prefer a more conventional Mahalia Jackson !
Let us all pray ...Unceasingly !

Until next week or until the Lord calls me !

Vonda's Vault Box - 2011 Summer Season

2011-05-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

Ok Vonda , I just broke loose from school ! Amd it's on ! Try to Bust Out , Carter Kin folk ! Lets get up with Showtime , DJ Skorpio , Wendy Rucker Moore ,and Keith Hill, as the they lead us into the new millenium of funk and good times 1
Let's Bust Out !
Deborah thanks for keeping the Funk Alive with your Ushy mixes and your Funk stories with the Master of P Funk George Clinton !

Let's Bust Out ! With the Prince of Funk ! Rick James !

"If you don't like our funk , you can take your stuff and scram " ,
Rick James 1979 , 2011 .....
"The Funk shall rise again "Ed Gray

Are you with me ...... Shake Your Pants !

Gotta Go and work for the people ..... "Time to Fight The Power "

This is Outstanding !Uncle Charlie bring us home !

See ya Next week !

Barbershop Talk Monday : Roger Best Dallas QB , Aikman Second

2011-05-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

After careful consideration and numerous conversations at the Barbershop.I have determined that Roger Staubach is the best Dallas QB Ever. There have been many to choose from ,36 men have played the position. We will talk about the Greatest in the video blog.

The Best Dallas QB EVER
Roger lead the Dallas Cowboys during the 70 Glory Days .He led them to 2 Super Bowl victories . Although coming in second does not count ,he led Dallas to two other Super Bowl appearances against Pittsburg.
He was "Captain America" who "led Americas Team".The Cowboys though talented was not as rich as the Aikman led team of the 90"s.5 Super Bowl Appearances in 10 years during the 70's. A veritable dynasty - "Hail Mary "

Number 2 On the List :
Second Place and damn near first was Troy.Troy Aikman led the best teams that Dallas ever fielded.More Hall of Famers will be elected from the squads that Jimmy Johnson put together during the early 90"s.
You got to be good to lead a Dynasty . Aikman had help with the Triplets and a Stifling Defense.Troy is the only Dallas QB to win 3 Super Bowls.

Number 3
Dandy Don Meridith ,the first Dallas Cowboy Qb to lead his team to the NFL Championship.He failed in two tries to to beat the eventual Super Bowl Champion victors in the first 2 Super Bowls.

Number 4 is Danny White .
He lead Dallas to the NFC Championship but was overlooked during the post Roger era.

Number 5 is Tony Romo .
Tony has lots of promise!Tony has to Deliver at least a NFC Championship to move up on the list.

Well thats's all folks "Turn out the Lights the parties over ".

Gospel Sunday Returns ! Trinity Temple , Aretha, Patti and The Holy Spirit !!

2011-05-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

Picture above is Browns Chapel , located in Montgomery , Alabama , Summer 2011.
Blogging returns on Sunday with a Gospel Treat ! Its back , Its on Time ! Get Your Praise on with the DFW MASS CHOIR ,if you wait on the Lord !

He is On Time !
My mother is a member of Trinity Temple , she sung on this album ! That was before cds,ipods ,and blogs! Can't Nobody ! Nobody but my savior , Jesus !
Kirk Franklin and the Trinity Temple Full Gospel Mass Choir !
Oak Cliff where I was raised , brings back memories !Trinity Temple located on Polk Street in Oak Cliff. Hard to think that 20 years have passed !
Praise Him "The Holy One " !

My Soul is weary, My soul is tired , how long must I go on like this ?
My Soul Needs to Pray !

Those songs bring back memories , precious memories,thank you Mama for showing a child the way ! Precious Memories get in the Way !

Until next week if the Lord says the same !

Don't Mess With Texas :The State Senator Carries Heat

2011-05-10T16:50:00.001-07:00

This qualifies as one of the latest strange but true - it only could happen in Texas stories.Our Texas state legislators recently debated a law that would allow students to carry guns on college campuses.

Wow ,I would really feel safe now. We are going to trust a college kid with carrying a concealed hand weapon, when we can't even trust him with a wine cooler. Our Texas legislators in their efforts to stop another Virginia Tech have relied on an unintended consequence to emerge."Stupidity".

Texas Unintended Consequence II
In an effort to protect our state officials from a possible assasination they are debating a law that would allow them to carry concealed handguns too.Our Texas legislators are on a roll! They could carry concealed handweapons anywhere.The next time you cut off your state legislator in traffic ,think twice !It may be a state senator with a little road rage !
Watch out !

Obama “The Unforgiveable Blackness “

2011-05-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

We as Americans like to believe that we live in an enlightened society.A society in which in a short 150 years an African –American is in the White House as the president. Many pundits speculated after Obama's election that we could live in a post racial society.An American society in which color would no longer be a factor in politics and in the country as a whole.
W.E.B. Dubois, the renowned educator and philosopher in commenting on the first black heavyweight champion Jack Johnson , declared that he was guilty of ”unforgiveable blackness”. Likewise Obama is guilty of unforgiveable blackness. Guilty of being the first black in the neighborhood.Guilty to have to defend getting a Nobel Peace Prize, a prize that he did not campaign for. Guilty of “Unforgiveable Blackness” , something he did not ask for.

President Obama is much like the first black heavyweight champion, who also was guilty of “unforgiveable blackness”.Obama was guilty to prove that he was an American, despite the evidence that proves that he was born in Hawaii.Public documentation and also public notification in the local newspapers notwithstanding we had the ‘Birthers”.

I was amazed at some who said “I don’t believe it.I need to see a body “, and “I am tired of Obama saying he did it …. He didn’t kill Osama, the Navy Seals did it “.The fact is: Obama is the commander of chief ,he takes responsibility or fault for any military action that he orders.President Reagan likewise took credit for attacking Libya.

It happened on Obama’s watch and therefore he did indeed do it.It sort reminds me of the incantations of white racists who implored the fans of heavyweight champion Jack Johnson not to gloat ,”remember you have not down nothing at all” Years later descendants of those same racists say to Obama that he has not done nothing at all.

President Obama deserved to take his moment in the sun as a patriot ,who attacks terrorism much like Ronald Reagan.We as Americans have a proud tradition to uphold,a tradition that stands against tyranny.A tyranny that we still battle today is home grown racism;no Navy Seal can kill that.

Happy Mothers Day 2011 !

2011-05-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day !
As we all celebrate Mothers Day,let us pay proper honor to our Mothers.Moms who bandage our wounds physical,spirtual, and mental.Mothers who cry for us before we cried.Mothers who laugh with us as we crack jokes and smile with us as we smile through the joy and the pain of life. To her we say Happy Mothers'Day !
Some mothers are tough ,have to deal with us by being a mom and dad !They do the best that they can do,Salute them with style and grace ....

Mother's also can be saluted Old Skool style like the Spinners did when talking about Sadie Mae! We all love our Mother's !"She's never sinning , she is always winning !"

To all Mama's ,Mother's,Mommie"s, you will always be the Queen of the Earth!
Loving you is food for the soul !

The Return of Vonda's Vault Box

2010-10-16T01:08:00.000-07:00

Did you miss us. The Vault Box was closed for a summer recess. But we are back ! The hardest working blog in America, Ed Gray 4 America is back ! If you say it's a comeback ! We ain"t never been gone !

Like General MacArthur and the Mack we are Back !

The usage of good funk music ! Can make you "Weak at Knees"!
For my folks in Highland Hills ! I see you Steve Arrington !

We got a party going on ! This blog has some SWAG ! EVEN WOMEN HAVE SWAG !
Right Vonda !
We all Pause !

And What about some Guy !

I think I have an attack of of Cameosis !

To those who like old R and B classic , here is your Jodeci effect !
We will see ya next week in the Vault , We will cry 4 u !

911

2010-09-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

911 ....
The name conjures up images and words,often times disjointed.Our nation was one that terrrible late summer day. We in our innocence and false security were ushered into a world of universal terror. We shall never forget those images.
Images - Looking at a surreal movie of thought ,action,heroism.For once athletes and singers are not heroes,but fireman and policemen are heroes.Images- We are not black or white - We are Americans. Americans walking aimlessly to get home.The simple things in life.Tuesday...Nothing never happens on Tuesday.

Thoughts
Thinking strange thoughts.How can two buildings be attacked? Who did it?
Will there be more?
Thinking....
They hit Washington D.C. my birthplace .Thinking ....Is my family okay?
Does Joe work at the Pentagon ? I can't call DC , the lines are overloaded.
Thinking ...Thats DC and NYC , I live in Dallas.
How can this all be? Thinking....We have tall buildings in Dallas too, are we next ?

Action
The cowards of humanity will never succeed when God is with us ! Emmanuel.
The passengers of United Airlines Flight 93 ...
Ask that the Lord's Prayer is recited with them before they foil the deeds of the terrorists against America. No,it's the terrorists who strike humanity.My humanity trumps my nationality.

Our Father, which art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done,
in earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive them that trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
[For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever.]
Amen.

Football Monday : The Best Rushers in NFL Part 1

2010-09-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

The newest entry in the Edgray4America video blog is the Football Monday Series.
In a spirited conversation recently at Diverse Cutz in Arlington we talked about the best rushers in NFL History.

ACE and the boys had a long thoughtful conversation regarding one of the premier positions in NFL. The Running Back!

This series is part 1 in a 2 part series. Next week the best rusher in NFL History will be crowned.In sports as always arguments are won by the facts and how vigorously you defend your position. So for the sake of argument lets start with NUMBER 10:
OJ Simpson the first to rush for over 2000 yards in a single season.

NUMBER 9 : "THE TYLER ROSE" Earl Campbell

NUMBER 8: "THE BUS " Jerome Bettis

NUMBER 7: Curtis Martin

NUMBER 6 : Tony Dorsett

See ya next week in the Barber Chair !

Labor Day Mix : " I Got Work To Do "

2010-09-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

This Labor Day as we put our food on the grill and toast up with our favorite drink. Let's pause a moment and remember those in the labor movement who have contributed to the well being of all American workers.
The American worker has all the tools that has made him and our country the most successful and powerful country in the world.
Be it the strong willed factory worker !

Or the brothers and sisters at the "Car Wash".

We are all United ! The Brothers Got Work To Do !

We are all United ! The Sisters Got Work To Do !

WE ALL HAVE WORK TO DO !

Labor Day Message : September 6 , 2010

2010-09-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day !
As we go to the various picnics of the last weekend of this 2010 Summer,let's pause for a moment and reflect on American Labor. As a former elected labor leader,I served as a Chief Steward for Communications Workers of America Local 6215 this is an important day for me.

This day is solemn because the Labor movement has lost hundreds of brothers and sisters for the sake of protecting not only its memberships but that of all American workers.Those truths that we take as standards in the work place came off the backs of American labor.This day is joyous because we celebrate their victories.

The victories are taken for granted as if they always existed.
A litany of policies and rules were made because of the existence of organized Labor.The 8 Hour Day and the 5 Day work week are examples of what Labor has brought to the American workers. American Labor has changed throughout the years ,but one thing is constant the brothers and sisters of the movement have paid their dues for all Americans.

Happy Labor Day !

Gospel Sunday : Albertina Walker

2010-09-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

Gospel Sunday features a prayer and request for prayer.My good friend and colleague Cedrick Bailey revealed in his facebook post that Gospel great Albertina Walker is sick. You can link to the web site at http://www.musicalsoulfood.com/.
So this Sunday and as we do every day .
"We Go to God In Prayer "

"I Want the Lord to Keep Me Day By Day "

"Please Be Patient With Me,God Is Not Through With Me"

Dear Lord Remember Sister Albertina ,"Dear Lord Remember Me" !

Until next week we will see you again if God says the same "Peace and Blessings".

Vonda's Vault Box : September 2 Remember

2010-09-04T05:37:00.000-07:00

This is finally the month of September! The vault is finally cooling off.
The vault is a mix of groovalistic neo old skool flava today! From Earth Wind and Fire to Carl Thomas,we will pay tribute to our past summer with "September "!

Vonda is dancing in the September rains !
The summer rain is good for the soul of the folks.It's raining from Texas to Carolinas! Carl Thomas gives us the weathercast it's storming outside!
"Summer Rain "

Time to chill and look at the "Summer Rain" ,and escape this "Summer Madness".
Let your mind flow and enjoy the moment,it"s all Kool and The Gang !

Well it's time to leave the vault. Gonna go to one of the last summer weddings! Congrats Angela Harris from the folks at the vault! Don't forget those BBQ 'S.Time to enjoy one of those famous stuffed burgers from Bro In Law! If you look real fast you will catch the folks from the vault jamming with Will Smith because its our version of
"Summertime " !

Jazzy Fridays : Mistress of Jazz Sade

2010-09-03T18:51:00.000-07:00

This week we go to the heart of Africa , to bring you the voluptuous Sade . Sade is from Nigeria , over 20 years ago she took my generation over by a storm as she sung about "The Sweetest Taboo". For me the sweetest taboo is jazz ! Thank you Sade for letting the world know about it !

Every week , I play a little jazz on a Friday to get you in the mood for the weekend,It"s just downright criminal to have this kind of music on a Friday !
" Is it A Crime" .

This is the 200"th blog of the Edgray series ! We thank you for your readership and viewership.We have to honestly say "Its Never Good As the First Time "!
The second time is as not as good as it seems to be ! Look at the archives for more political commentary and music !

In my lifetime , I have been accused of a lot of things . When Sade said I was a "Smooth Operator ",I couldn't tell a lie ! Its's the cool in me !
See ya next week at the best music video blog in America as voted by you !

Gospel Sunday : The Carpenter Edition

2010-08-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in life we need to retool and fix our spirit ! When you can't fix it you need a handy man, a carpenter !
Yolanda Adams is one of the best new gospel singers from today's era.scene.Yolanda and the first lady of Gospel Shirley Caesar testi-sing about who can fix a broken life,and broken spirit.
"JESUS WILL FIX IT '!

I know a carpenter who can fix it ! HE has the right tools ! No matter what our God given tools , our tools fail in comparison to what the Lord has in store for us when He comes to our lives! Rev. Al Green sings about that carpenter !
"JESUS IS WAITING " !

When we go through life's tribulations remember that God is preparing us for Glory! Remember the Battle is Not Yours,It's the Lords ".From Shirley Caesar ,to Yolanda Adams ,to Rachell Duppard ! God has shown us that the Battle is not ours !It's the Lord !

We leave you where you picked you up from ! The Texas Gospel Experience ! Kirk Franklin ! For those who have said we went to far ... you can't take my Joy away from me !
STOMP !

Until we see each other next week ,God Willing !
Stay prayed up !

Vonda's Vault Box : The New Jack Special

2010-08-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

In the vault we have "nEW jACK Section ".You remember that funky beat from the 80's that made you danced in a dance fever moment. Bust a move with us in Vonda's Vault Box as we are in a New Jack mood. Kick the ballistics G ! New Jack ,Never dies in the vault ! "I Like " here are the sounds of Guy !

Do you want More ! How about my boy, B. Brown "Its My Perrogative" ! Some ask the questions ,you don't know the deal ,I am just a brother trying to make it right! "Every Little Step" of the Way !

This is for William ! " Turned Away" !

Now let's give it up for Jodeci lets slow this turntable down a bit !
I will even cry for you , man thats deep .Only Jodeci can pull that off in Vonda's Vault Box !

Well our time is up ! Me and the crew in the Vault hope to see ya back next week because you are not a 'Fairweather Friend" you have listened to us thru Thick and Thin ! Until next week when see each other again at Vonda's Vault Box where our dreams never die ,because our youth forever lives !

Jazzy Fridays : Mistress of Jazz Rachelle Ferrell

2010-08-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

Rachelle Ferrell reminds me of Al Jarreau ! This week we "Welcome You To My Love ! My Love of Music! Every Friday after a long week of working,chill with a wine, and let the music flow. Welcome To My Love ! The Music of My Life - Jazz !

I first heard Rachelle years ago when she burst on the scene.The Pennyslvanian born singer has a incredible octave range with a penchant for a unrelenting soul ! Rachelle turns out the blogosphere with her soulfull jazz set "Nothing Has Ever Felt like This "!

"Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This" blogging about this latest mistress of Jazz !
You gotta love her with Will Downing!I have not heard a jazz collab like this in years! "Nothing Ever"! Sit back with your favorite glass of wine and enjoy!

Thank you for joining us this week! Until we talk again ,we will be looking for the next music set or the political cause to blog about!" Until You Come Back To Me"!

Gospel Sunday :Carnell Murrell

2010-08-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

Carnell Murrell is a gifted individual that I have known for over 30 years .We were high school classmates at David W. Carter High School in Dallas,Texas.He was gifted then ,in fact we called him "Peabo" after the popular singer at that time Peabo Bryson.I remember talking to him when we were both children and sharing our thoughts on the Lord. We had similar upbringings in our faith,and what I noticed about him was a spirit.A spirit of kindness,a spirit of humility,a God given spirit that was rare for someone his age.
Through the years we lost contact,it is through the magic of social networking and you tube I bring to you his testimony.

Carnell and myself recently shared a conversation about our mothers. A mother's love is only eclipsed by the love of God . "Because of Him" ....

From back in the day.We hear Carnell testi-sing.That's a new word. I will be placing it in wiki-pedia this week.
Carnell and the DFW Mass Choir sing of a " Joy Unspeakable".

Once we realize we can't control, we need to let God be in control ,our lives will be better.
We leave you with a cut from Carnell Murrell and the Lilly Mack Singers "You Are God".Be careful and Be Blessed.We will see you next week if God says the same.

Vonda"s Vault Box : Back To School Special

2010-08-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

We are Knee Deep in kids here in the vault!Sampling our beats! This week the the kids go to school for sure ! As Rod G. said its Christmas Eve for the parents! Meanwhile in the vault it will always be Knee Deep. George Clinton getting down for the funk of it!

The vault has a wayback machine.Let's take a trip back in time.Remember when the Jackson 5 told us how it was in school! How to get a A ! Here is their cartoon show version of ABC !

Love is in the air ! Now the kids gotta back to school with their "School Boy Crushes". No more summer crushes, now its a "School Boy Crush".

The party is over for the kids in the vault ! New Edition said its deeper than that "If It Isn't Love".

And now a Commercial Break from Coke !

We will be in the vault mixing for next week ! But these kids gotta go ! Frankie get these kids on the "Double Dutch Bus".

Jazzy Fridays : Mistress of Jazz Randy Crawford

2010-08-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

This Friday at our Jazzy Fridays session we take on that 'Street Life ", we let the people see what we them to see. Randy Crawford was born in Macon ,Georgia in 1952. She propelled to stardom with the Jazz Crusaders in this set .....

I have been blogging for a little while, but one day "I will Fly Away ".
Follow the night as we move into a jazzy Friday set !

Randy Crawford also sung some of the best reenditions of the classics,in the sun or the rain,like "A Rainy Night in Georgia."

Take this badge off ,because we are "Knocking on Heavens Door" .
A classic for all us to hear once more.
Randy's voice is pure with a unrestrained soulful strut.
She has me rockin on this set...

We bid you a farewell,as we only want to see you laughing in the "Purple Rain".
Until next week when we see you again in the jazz corner.

No Mosque at Ground Zero

2010-08-16T21:22:00.000-07:00

Religious freedom is a basic right for all Americans.Muslims have a right to build a mosque. The site of a proposed a mosque at Ground Zero is considered by many to be provocative.There should not be a cultural center built near the site.
To build near this site at this time would inflame passions that would ignite smoldering embers of discontent.

The press reports that a mosque will be built near Ground Zero.In fact it's a cultural center with a mosque,swimming pool,and many other amenities.It is more than a place of worship it is a place where Muslims can worship and enjoy the liberties that all Americans are entitled.

The emotions are rampant because of the 911 Tragedy.Politicians stoke the embers of this sensitive subject for political gain.As President Obama would say "Let me be clear".The Muslims have a right to build on private property.The government as represented by Mayor Bloomberg is correct that the Muslims have a right to build.

From my political experience in zoning,the Muslims can sue NYC for the right to build on private property.If done so the City of New York will pay financially to the Muslim community for their inconvenience.

We the Americans have paid for our inconvenience.The inconvenience of being attacked. My birthplace was one of the cities attacked,I remembered calling anxiously to see if my relatives were safe.They were found safe,but others lost their lives for the inconvenience of being Americans.For that inconvenience we all paid a dear price.

Months from now when in all likelihood the Islamic Cultural Center will be built, we will look back on this day and say the souls of the departed were inconvenienced by our actions of hatred ,intolerance and politics.

Gospel Sunday:Goes to the Movies

2010-08-15T09:15:00.001-07:00

This week Gospel Sunday goes to the movies ! Movies if taken in context can provide a powerful vehicle to communicate a message.This week the Gospel Sunday blog goes to the movies and seeks the message.
"Let us not grow weary ,in well doing " .Bishop Eddie Long tells us about the manifestation of God in our life . Lift up your head to receive your blessing!

Speak to me Lord !

When God is telling us something we need to listen !We all hope and pray that when we call out to God ,he hears our humble cry!"Pass me Not".

I can hear HIM talking to me , and I can feel HIM touch my soul.I have to make preparations ! I got to get ready to meet the Lord !

No matter what color we are ,no matter what nationality we are .We need to Walk with Jesus ! Until next week let's walk together !

Vonda's Jam Session: "Hot In Here" Music Special

2010-08-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

In the Vault Box ,it is really hott! Hot ain't the word ,2 hot is the word .I guess you can be cool ,but when its Hot its really Hott !
Whoever decided to put a vault in Texas, must have been crazy. All this vinyl is melting. August is the Hottest month of the year! July ain't gotta thing on August, in fact Stevie tells us ....

Just went to the vault to get my groove on and the only thing cool was Kool and The Gang ! They trying to be smooth ,but they still talking about how it's "tOO hOT".

A music blog without HEATWAVE -can't be complete unless we ride the Grooveline to Funk !

Never 2 Hot 2 get our Funk On !
The Funk when its Hot as a "Firecracker" can't be faked.Mass Production comes to us with "Firecracker".

Working in Vonda's Vault box its too hot ! 2 hot ,I gotta go!
See ya next week when the vault is cooler ! Nelly tell em how ya feel !

Jazzy Fridays : Mistress of Music Chaka Khan

2010-08-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy:Edward Gray Library

The Jazzy Friday set today features the mistress of music collection.Real singers can do more than just one format.Chaka Khan has a gifted voice,the beautiful former lead singer of Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan will take you back in this version of "Funny Valentine".

George Duke of the funkdafied "Dukey Stick" fame joins her in "Taking the A train" to get to Harlem. We don't need to take the A train,but let"s enjoy the trip!

The Dizzy Gillespie and Bird gave us this song ,and the melody still lingers along.Chaka Khan ! Chaka Khan ! A night in Tunisia ,A day In Dallas,it's all the same you are the mistress of Jazz. Herbie Hancock ,no the great Herbie Hancock joins her in "A Night in Tunisia".

You want one more , until we come back to you this week ! Chaka Khan says goodbye on Jazzy Friday's!

Gospel Sunday August 8 : Fred Hammond

2010-08-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

This week we will struggle with those who to try to destroy us spirtually.They don't have to possess weapons of mass destruction,they can have weapons of simple destruction. These weapons are vile words, deeds,ignorance,disrespect,and disdain. Be advised that "No Weapon" formed against me shall prosper !

This Sunday let the Blessing Begin,Let the Praise Begin! So much to be thankful for,Life,Health,Strength.The Family of Christ is strengthened by the Grace of GOD!

Praise belongs to God for all whom our Blessings belong to ...
Glory! Glory ! We use any means necessary to uplift YOUR NAME! Through music,poetry, sermons,and yes even blogs!

People wonder how I soldier on.I am not afraid, I fear not the valley of death and the unknown.God is with me! Emmanuel!
"I WANT MY DESTINY " .Until next week stay prayed up , and we will see you again if God says the same!