GERMAN BORN-QUEENS BRED GAY RAPPER AND ACTOR SPEAKS

Whenever people first meet rapper Lester Green, many gets the impression that he's a hardcore rapper due to his looks and attire, but he's not a hard core thug. Lester is an openly gay rapper who performs Hip-Hop music that has different genres of music including Rock and Dance that has a unique style as well as given him a large overseas following. Green, who holds a Bachelors Degree in English, has also been adding modeling and acting to his resume and has plans to put out an calendar. I spoke with him via telephone about his career.

DA-PROFESSOR: How are things going?
LESTER: Busy. Busy. Busy. Enjoying life. Enjoying the things I love to do. Acting. Performing. Auditioning. You name it.

DA-PROFESSOR: How did you get into music?
LESTER: Actually, my brother used to be a rapper years ago. And he had a group. Every night he would come home from the studio and he would play different tracks and I wasn't into Hip-Hop music. I would listen to them because my brother was making music and he was thrilled about it. I just watched from afar. Then he got locked up and it was like he passed the torch to me. While he was in jail, he would rap over the phone and mail me rhymes and it slowly transended to me being a rapper.

DA-PROFESSOR: Which rappers and musicians inspire you?
LESTER: Well, let me start with the local acts. Elijah Black. I've been listening to his music for a few months. I love his music. I love his work ethic. Who else inspries me? Tori Fixx. 50 Cent. Lil' Wayne. Emeniem. Kayne West. I love these artists cause they have their own idenity. They're not trying to be that person or this person. They make very good music.

DA-PROFESSOR: I understand that you was born in Germany. What was it like living in Germany as a child?
LESTER: Good question. I was born in Germany, but I didn't stay that long. I was there for three or four years before I knew it, we upped and moved so I don't know the language, but it's still a part of my roots. Good question.

DA-PROFESSOR: Thanks. What other places have you lived?
LESTER: I lived in Georgia. I lived in El Paso. Then we moved to New York. I haven't done much traveling and I think that as I get older, I want to see more. My partner has been everywhere from France, Italy. You name it. He used to ask me where would you like to go and I say I don't know. I haven't been anywhere. I think I need to expand and travel more. Especially if I can do that through my music. That would even better, but if I can't do it like that I'd like to see different people. Different cultures. Different languages. I really want to go the U.K. and tap into that industry.

DA-PROFESSOR: Me too.
LESTER: Yeah. They're supportive of their artists. I'm not too sure if they're gay friendly, but as far as music is concerned, they support their own. And of course there's L.A. and I went to Vegas. I want to get back there to do shows.

DA-PROFESSOR: You're a openly Gay Rapper. What made you pursue an career as an openly gay rapper?
LESTER: I figure there weren't too many people out there doing it so I could do it, do it better than them or be competitive with those artists, I would possibly get the recognition, and I of course know nothing comes easily; you have to work to have work at it. You have to put in the leg work.

DA-PROFESSSOR: You're a sexy Black Gay man with a sexy physique. Do you have issues with females being shocked learning and knowing that you're gay?
LESTER: That's a good question. I co come across strong and sexual, but believe it or not, women were never interested in me. I find that hard to believe. ususally women fall for the good looking guy. I consider myself a good looking guy. The women never liked me in that way. They always come to me like brother-sister type thing. They came to me for advice or to listen tto. It was never sexual and it used to bother me because I wanted them to like me that way even though I wasn't straight. But I wanted to have their attention. It never happened and I think that's another reason why I came out and be who I am.

DA-PROFESSOR: What are the pros and cons of being a gay rapper?
LESTER: I don't know. I really don't like the tern 'gay rapper' because I don't see myself as just that. I'm trying to build a brand. Of course I do music and I'm a rapper, but I don't wanna be known as a gay rapper because I'm doing commercials, televisions and movies so I don't wanna be pigeonholded and boxed in. But if I had to do answer that question, pros and cons, I think with everything there's pros and cons. Lot of people tend to think he's a gay rapper, he's kinda deal with those unusal things. It's the same across the board. As an artist, especially if you're trying to be an independent artists, there are ups and downs. Regardeless if you're gay or straight.

DA-PROFESSOR: Lester, you brought up an interesting point. There are many people who still think that gays are supposed to be flamboyant, hairstylists, make up artists, and fashion designers, yet they don't wanna accept the fact that there are many gay males who are masculine, into Hip-Hop, athletics, and who can rock fitted caps, baggy jeans, timberlands, nikeys and adidas. Tell me from your prespective why is that?
LESTER: That's a great question. I don't wanna say television has a great influence of what people see, but it does have an influence. Me personally, I just wanna be different. I'm not trying to deny my sexuality by wearing do-rags, boots, and fitted caps. I think people are into me because I'm true to who I am.

DA-PROFESSOR: You're also pursuing an acting career. What prompted you to pursue acting as well as rapping?
LESTER: Well I don't know for sure, but for some reason, people say music and television go hand in hand. You see artists like 50 Cent make that transition from music to television. Like I said before, it's about branding yourself. Why limit yourself to one genre or one specific thing. Why not do all?

DA-PROESSOR: Who are some of your favorite actors?
LESTER: I like Denzil Washington. I like what he represents. Professionalism. He respects his craft and I respect people like that. Antoine Fishcher. Derek Luke. I usually don't watch alot of movies, but as an actor, you really need to learn your craft and know your craft. Who else do I like? Queen Latifah. I like Whoppi Goldberg. I like what these people represent. I like Vivica A Fox. I met her at the LGBT Center. She's real down to earth. I like people who are exceptioal. I don't like people who act like they're bigger than who they are.

DA-PROFESSOR: What do you like about Queen Latifah?
LESTER: I'm still amazed. She's constantly reinventing herself. She's so real. People connect with real people. It's just the vibe she gives off. There's nothing fake about her. People like Ellen Degeneris because they're great people and to top it off, they're really talented.

DA-PROFESSOR: A few years ago, you was in a Gay Hip-Hop documentary. How did you becomwe involved in that project?
LESTER: It featured other acts such as Bry'nt and Shorty Roc, and that came about through Carmello, the president of outhiphop.com. I really enjoyed the documentary because it gave people a better idea of what it's like to be a gay rapper.

DA-PROFESSOR: You also took part in performing at the memorial for the late Joseph Jefferson, who shockingly and sadly took his own life. What was it like performing for the late activist/party promoter?
LESTER: It was a great opportunity. I wanna thank James Saunders and Lawerence Pickney for that opportunity. I really wanna do more of that work where I'm supporting the movement and doing charitable things. It was a great opportunity. He was very young and I didn't realize it was that prevelant.

DA-PROFESSOR: Who would you like to do a movie with?
LESTER: I don't know if I wanna do a movie with this person. I think his name is Jesse. He does alot of videos for alot of rappers.

DA-PROFESSOR: I think his name is Jesse Terreo.
LESTER: I love his music videos. As far as filmmakers, I like to work wiwth anybody who's willing to give me a shot.

KAOZ DROPS HOT UPLIFITNG TRACK

J'FUZION FEATURING KAOZ
STANDING

Whenever Kaoz drops singles and does collabs with other artists, many in the lgbt music scene always expects him the drop hot joints that are entertainment and uplifting. Well the Minnieapolis-based Out rapper's collab with J'Fuzion didn't leave us disappointed with his latest single "Standing." In fact, many in the commuity are saying that this is one of his hottest joints to date and I can see why. The song has hot beats, strings, breaks, horn riffs, and samples of Elton John's 1984 classic "I'm Still Standing" and Della Reese's line from the classic film "Harlem Nights" adding a fierce combo of Hip-Hop, Gospel and Dance. Also giving the song fire is the call and response with Kaoz saying still I rise and the looping of John's vocals as well as Kaoz's flow and his intelligent lyrics.

I'm Still standing
Yo! Still I rise
Still I rise
I'm still standing
Still I rise.
Yo! Last but not least
Gay men ain't the beast
That shit needs to cease
Who else in society gets beaten on the streets
For their express of love always generate the heat

This joint is really hot and it's also a joint that Gays needs to listen put on their I-pods and bump at their prides, balls and shows to help them see that they can overcome obstacles as well as know that there are talented Openly Gay Rappers like Kaoz can spit hot verses as well as represent for the Gay community.

COSBY 2012-HOW THE HUXTABLES WOULD BE REALLY LIVING NOW

From 1984-1992, The Cosby Show was a hit with television and it made history by being the first Black television show to hit # 1 in the ratings. Many loved seeing positive images of Blacks on television as opposed to seeing the sterotypes of Blacks living in the projects, ghetto and commiting crimes. While many loved to see a family where both parents were professionals, there were many however who felt and still feel that the show didn't deal with other issues surrounding Blacks including intercultural racism and classism, and while the show did show Claire Huxtable reprimending her children when they misbehaved and lied, many felt the show wasn't Black enough.
Me and my best friend Donald Peebles were talking about the show's impact, history, and how Cosby had the family portrayed, and we were talking about the experiences of most middle and upper class Black families go through and began to speak on how the Huxtables would be living in real life in this day of age.



HEATHCLIFF HUXTABLE-A Retired doctor who spents most of his time at home watching television, hanging out with his buddies and trying to enjoy his retirement, but is unable to due to certain things that happens within the family. In addition to coping with the loss of his mother, he is still having issues trying to get over Denise dropping out of Hillman and becoming an wife and stepmother to Martin's daughter Olivia as well as returning to a Cuny school and earning her degree in Education-History and Literture. He's also coping that Sondra his favorite daugther is givng the family a bad repuation.


CLAIR HUXTABLE-An attorney and partner at the firm that she works for still pratices law, and living an active professional and social life. She also still makes time for her children and grandchildren, who she loves, nutures and conforts. She's also tired of Cliff's childish beef he has with Denise, who is doing well for herself (better than Sondra),tired of his views concerning one of his grandsons. She also has to help Sondra with her crisis. Especially when she reveals to Cliff that Sondra may not be his child. It's revealed that when and Cliff broke up temporary, she briefly (and secretly dated) two guys. A Black student who has his own business and a White Soul Singer from Welsh, who would later ask Claire to become his US attorney.


SONDRA HUXTABLE-An attorney and divorced mother of twins. Sondra was Cliff's golden and favorite child who could do no wrong in his eyes. She had went to Princeton College, became an attorney, married an doctor and was raising her twins who would turn out different in more ways than you would expect. Sondra still thinks she's hot shit and the best until Denise steals the spotlight from her, which causes their feud to become hotter. Sondra can't accept the fact that Denise turns out better than her. Sondra becomes so bitter and jealous, that her work suffers, but things get worse when she loses a high profile case to an young Black Ebony Complexion Female Prosecutor, who's a combination of Christine Blair from the Young & Restless and Author/Prosecutor Starr Jones. Sondra begins to drink heavily, to the point of losing her drivers license, her marriage, and evently being arrested for running down Denise who gives tells her about herself.


DENISE HUXTABLE-KENDALL-An teacher/Guidance Counselor at Hillman High Academy, successful award-winning author, wife and mother of two. After giving birth to her son and returning to the states in 1994, Denise decides to re-enroll at Medgar Evers College, and not only does she thrive and excell, she's asked to be the Valenvictorian for the graduating class of 1999, and gets recruited by several grad schools (Howard, Penn State, Temple, Univeristy of Miami, UCLA, Pace, Fordham University, Brooklyn, Hillman). Denise decides to go to Brooklyn and thrives there as well. With the excecption of Cliff and Sondra, the whole family is proud of her success including Grandpa Huxtable and Claire, who throws Denise several graduation parties including inviting several of her friends from Hillman including Whitley, Dwayne, Jalessa, Maggie, Ron, Lettie and even Millie. Upon receiving her Masters, Denise decides to teach at Hillman's newly formed high school where she becomes a favorite. She also becomes close with her niece and newphew who confide in her especially when their parents throw their old-fashioned and narrowed minded views at them.

THEO HUXTABLE-An special education junior high IS 109. Theo has been teaching at the famous school since 1997, and he has helped many special education students thrive and acheive higher learning. In fact most of his students have beat the odds and enrolled in several of the city's tops schools including Brooklyn Tech, Bishop Lougling, Murrary Berturm, Bronx High School of Science, School of Aviation, The High School of the Performing Arts in Brooklyn and Manhattan as well as several boarding schools out of state. Most of Theo's students have done well, and they still keep in contact with him. Theo's personal life isn't as great. His girlfriend Justine, had died from cancer shortly after Denise's graduation, and Theo has spend most of his time and energy teaching and tutoring as a way to cope with her passing. Many urged him to date, and it's hard especially since they were together for a long period of time. He begins to re-enter the dating scene when he reconnects with his childhood friend Cockroach, who is doing well in life.


VANESSA HUXTABLE-The Director of marketing at an advertising agency. After graduating from Lincoln Univeristy, Vanessa had managed to secure a job at an Advertising agency where she worked to becoming the director of marketing. Unlike her older sisters, Vanessa isn't interested in marriage, and enjoys living the single life, with her best friend Cara who also works at the same agency as the director of international publicity due in part of her fluency in English, Spanish and German. In addition to having a great career, Vanessa is still outspoken and is constantly at odd with Sondra, Elivin and her father over how they raised their kids, their old-fashioned views (especially Elvin's) her not wanting to be married to Robert her first love, who is an successful television and stage actor and producer.

RUDY HUXATABLE-A graduate of Spellman who is a case manager in Manhattan. Rudy is an case manager at AIDS organization where she is loved by all the clients for her fun outgoing love spirit and her passion for making sure her clients gets the support and respect they need. Like Vanessa she has issues with Elvin's narrow-minded thinking, and isn't ready to marry, which causes problems with her relationship with Kenny who despite many efforts to change still has his narrow-minded views. Rudy finally leaves him one night after catching her former friend perform oral sex on Kenny in a club. Devestated, she runs into the arms of Peter, who has lost his baby and begin dating, causing Kenny to become stalking to the point where she has to get a restraining order against him. Rudy and Peter work hard on their interacial relationship.

GRANDPA RUSSELL HUXTABLE-Is still coping with the loss of his wife of several years. While he misses her, he still keeps himself busy by traveling and spending time with his family including Denise who he is proud of as well as Nelson and Winnie. He's also tired of Cliff's beef with Denise and lets him know that he needs to grow up and get over it, reminding him that Denise not only is doing well for herself, that she was the one who helped Sondra and Elvin come to their senses about moving out of that tacky aparment, and how Denise helped him and Anna have a greater appreciation of African History.

ELVIN TIBIDEAU-A surgeon, husband and father of three-Elvin had become an surgeon, and while he's a great doctor, he is in need of an long-overdue heart and brain transplant. Despite trying to change, he still has his sexist views, and wants his kids to be proper-Ivy League especially his daughter Winnie, who gives him fever during her college years. He also had hoped for his son to have a career as a doctor and marry a successful yet submissive woman. Those plans are thrown out the window when he learns that his son wants to pursue a career in media and he has no plan to settle down with a woman. When Elvin learns that his son is dating an Dark-skinned African American/African Panimanian from Flatbush, his Caribbean roots and views come out and it causes tension between the two. Elvin is also trying to deal with Sondra's beef with Denise and her constanly crying about losing the high profile case to the point where he's temporarily suspended after a patient he was performing surgery on goes into a coma. Devestated he has an affair with a woman and gets her pregnant causing his problems to go from bad to worse.

WALTER COCKROACK OR C.R.BRADLEY-A successful party international party promoter-Cock Roach or C.R. as he's now called reconnects with Theo in early 2000's one night at Miami beach where Theo is vacationing with Denise and her family. Cockroach explains that while his family was in Florida for the Christmas holiday, his mother began to have headaches. Shortly before they were scheduled to leave, the headaches had gotten worse, and after getting her to a doctor, it was discovered that she had a brain tumor, so have surgery, and a few days later, his dad learned that his job was letting people go, but because his dad was a disabled veteran who had worked at his job for over twenty years, they couldn't let him go, and he was able to get transferred to the Florida branch. So he had to stay with his mom while his dad sold the house. Cock Roach had finished high school and graduated from Florida A&M, and became one of the industry's most sought after promoters. He informs Theo that he had lost his girlfriend in 911 and it's hard being that he has moved and is focusing on raising their son. He helps Theo see that he can live again.


WINNIE TIBIDEAU-Sondra's and Elvin's twin daughter a former student at Princeton and an Hillman Transfer student. Winnie is Sondra and Elvin's twin daughter, who is an earthy, outspoken, female who is proud of her Blackness and stands up for herself and people she loves. Especially Denise, and her brother Nelson. Though Winnie grew comes from a working middle class Black family, she doesn't act like she's better than others and one of her pet peeves are seeing uppity snobby Blacks put down others because they're from the projects or are welfare and social security. The biggest thorns in her side are her parents thinking that they're better than everybody and her mom's jealousy of Denise who is more than a mother to her. Winnie also enjoys life and parties, hang out while maintainin a 3.90 GPA.

NELSON-TIBIDEAU-Sondra's and Elvin's twin son a student at Hillman College. Nelson is Sondra and Elvin's twin son, who's into art, music and urban culture and is majoring in communications and urban studies, while working part-time in the school's counseling office and when he's not working and studying, he spends most of his time with his boyfriend Selwyn An Dark-Skinned African American/African Panimanian guy who rocks street fashion (baggy jeans, timberlands, polo boots, nikeys and adidas)was Nelson's close friend which dates back to elementary school with. They had lost touch when Selwyn was accepted to a private school on an academic and athletic scholarship. They frienship rekindled after bumping into each other in the villiage where they both learned they were going to Hillman. They later attended concert that fetured openly Gay Rappers and after the show they learned they they had crushes on each other and they begin to date. Nelson having a Caribbean father has fears about coming out, so he confides in Denise who tells him that there was nothing wrong with being Gay and that Selwyn who is proud to be a Black Latino and is book and street smart is a great guy to be with. Nelson tells his parents who freak out and bitch about how he's making the family look bad, and that they won't accept it. Nelson tells them that he's not gonna be forced to live a false life and things get worse when he informs that Denise accepts him and that he will spend his vacations at her house with his boyfriend who stands up to Elvin. Nelson is hurt at his parents reaction, but he lives his life and spents time with his boyfriend who like him are attending Hillman on scholarships chilling attending rallies and prides and making hot passionate love.

MARTIN KENDALL-A retired Navy Man who is working as Olivia's manager. Since retirning from the Navy, Martin had tried to work as a civilian, but like many military veterans who are used to traveling, he found it hard to adjust being home, so when his daugther Olivia was began to pursue a singing career, he decided to go on the road with her as her tour manager to prevent her from getting involved with drugs and alcohol. Depsite the time on the road, he still manages to have a succesful marriage to Denise and a good father to their son.


PAM TUCKER-A Doctor at Thomas Jefferson University. Pam had decided to follow in Cliff's footsteps and become a doctor. After graduating from Temple Univeristy's undergrad and medical school, she began to work at Thomas Jefferson University, and was interviewed by several medical publications. She still keeps in touch with Charmaine.

WHO SHOULD TAKE WHITNEY HOUSTON'S SPOT IN WAITING TO EXHALE SEQUEL?

Before Soul/Pop Legend Whitney Houston passed away, she had many projects in the works. She had finished filming the remake of the classic film "Sparkle" with Jordan Sparks and was planning on recording a new album. She has also signed on to star in the sequel to the hit film "Waiting To Exhale" with Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine and Lelah Rochon, but with the award-winning legend's untimely passing, many had wondered if production of the movie was going to stop or continue with Houston? Studio executives have decided to go on with Houston.“It’s almost in [Houston's] honor that we think to soldier on,” Fox 2000 president Elizabeth Gabler told Vulture which was the first to report the news about the studio's decision to carry on. Galber also revealed that plans to feature Oprah Winfrey a huge supporter of Exhale to take Houston's spot.
I personally don't see Oprah playing Houston's character Savannah, because except for playing a thearpist on the Ellen Degenerus show, the former talk show host hadn't play any roles other than a wife and single mother living in the ghetto. Houston had the sass and sophistication to play Savannah an 33 year-old television producer who looks for the right man, but winds up becoming involved with her old love an Doctor who is married with a daughter, who wants to be with her, but gets cold feet. Savannah who gets tired of waiting, gives him a piece of her mind and gently spills her drink into his lap and later tells her mother that she is sick and tired of her forcing her to get married and have children like her sister so she won't be alone like her. "Yes mama I'm 33 years old and I'm alone" Whitney's character said in the award winning classic. "I may have to accept the fact that I may be alone for the rest of my life!" When her mother tried to reason with her about the doctor being a good man in a bad situation, Savannah relied with "Momma why don't you fucking marry him?!"

I think that the person who should take over the role is actress/author Robin Givens.
Why I chose Givens? Robin is an talented actress, who brings sassiness and classiness in most of her roles she plays. In 1992, she starred in the classic "Boomerang" as Jacquline Broyer, an beautiful woman, who captures Marcus Graham's (played by Eddie Murphy) eye and while he thinks he can easily get her into his bed, he's shocked to learn that not only is she hard to get, she's also an executive who later becomes his boss at Chantress an marketing company. He tries everything to get her into his bed including inviting him over to his house for dinner, but it doesn't work. At a party she informs him that if she would to ever seduce him, he would know. He finally makes love to her during a trip to New Orleans, and he falls for her, but she has a few tricks up her sleeve. She gives him a strong dose of his medicine by having her secretary call him to schedule a date for them to meet. The night of their date, he buys tickets to a movie premiere and after party and it rains and she doesn't show up. After calling the airports to see if any flights from Canada wer delayed or in an accident. Jacauline then arrives at his apartment donned in a trench coat, high heels, and underwear, and she apologizes by putting it on him to the point that he has her screaming her name while making his toes curl. She later leaves his apartment as well as leaves two hundred dollars on his dresser with an empty condom package. The scene that really shows that Robin can play Savannah is when she steps to Grace Jones' character and lets her know that if she doesn't fly to the Bahamas to do the photo shoot she will take back the money and sue her for every goddamn cent. The way Robin says it shows that she is capable of doing the job well.

ROMANTIC FLASHBACK: TONY AWARD WINNING SINGER'S FALLING IN LOVE SONG

MELBA MOORE
FALLING
1986 CAPITOL RECORDS

From the late 1970's, Tony award singer/actress Melba Moore had become a household name. She had conqured Broadway by starring in the hit play "Purlie" and scored many dance hits including "You Step Into My Life," "Love's Coming At You," "Mind Up Tonight" and "Read My Lips." She also scored a # 1 hit with former labelmate Freddie Jackson, but hadn't score a # 1 hit on her own, and many fans wanted her to sing a romantic ballad. Well Moore was able to do both with her 1986 ballad "Falling" which not only became a fan favorite, it also became her first # 1 R&B hit and also her signature live performance song, which showcased her ability to sing harmony, and showcase her different ranges. It also contains her hitting a high note for 22 seconds, which gives the classic a romantic feel along with the lyrics, and music which has a nice romantic feel courtesy of the guitar, percussion, keyboards and strings.
Melba Moore recorded a wonderful jam and it still sounds as romantic and beautiful as it did and I know that many couples still play this to set the mood for romance.

SOLID AS A ROCK-THAT'S HOW BLACK LOVE CAN BE

February is the celebration and acknowledgement of Black History month, a time to reflect on how Blacks have contributed to history with their work through politics, education, activism, sports and entertainment. It's also the time when many Black-Orientated publications honor famous Black Couples.



1. Barack & Michelle Obama. The President of the United States and The First Lady.
When The President and First Lady made history in 2002, many people were happy and overjoyed to see A Black Man running the White House as well as to see one who truly loves his wife and children. What makes them special is how they have each other's back as well as showing the world that Black couples can work and play together as well as make time for themselves. Another thing that stands out is how they value family and make sure they spend quality time with their daughters and with themselves. I know that their nights be hot and passionate with lots of music in the background and if they wanna make love organically all Barack has to do is sing to Michelle.




2. Carmelo Anthony & Lalah Vasquez. Famous Knicks Basket Ball Player and television producer/actress/radio personality/blogger.
Melo and Lalah had a large following of fans before they were introduced by Producer DJ Clue, a mutal friend. When they got together each of their seperate fan bases increased and combined making then one of the industry's famous couples of the 2000's. The Afro-American/Puerto Rican NBA star and Nyorican radio/television relationship is to be admired. When they began dating many felt they were a good looking couple and wanted them to marry. Especially after they became parents of a son. They chosed not to rush to the altar, and decided to wait for the time was right. Well it paid off, and it was eveident, because despite having busy schedules, you see the glow they still have whether their together and apart working on their sepearte careers. We hear stories about many NBA stars heading to divorce court due to lack of dick control and the pressures of rushing to the altar, but Melo and Lalah showed people that you have to do what is best for you and by doing that things will work out fine.



3. Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon-Grammy-Award winning singer/songwriter/producer/actress and Comedian/Rapper/Actor/Producer.
When singer Mariah Carey secretly tied the knot with actor/comedian/producer Nick Cannon, many were shocked and predicting that their marriage would be over very quickly. Those haters are feeling stupid, because the couple, who met after Carey recruited her new hubby to appear in her music video for her single "Bye Bye" are still going strong after three years of being married. Though Nick is younger in age, he has the maturity of an old soul and he's able to retain his youthful spirit as well as Mariah, who loves to have a good time when she's not busy penning classic hits. Many love how they're able to be themselves. The couple welcomed a set of twins, and recently had their love tested during the Christmas holiday when Nick was rushed to the hospital for kidney problems. Mimi stayed by her hubby's side, and while Nick was recovering, leaped from his sick bed to escort his wife to the BET Honors where she was honored for her contributions to music. They Belong Together.


4. DJ Baker & Eric J. Parker-Host of the award winning podcast Da-Doo-Dirty Show and
Party Planner/socialite.
Despite the ignorance of homophobia and the media portraying Gays in negative images, DJ and Eric are showing the world and community that Black Gay men can be in loving prosperous relationships. "Not in my wildest dreams did I think that phone conversation was going to lead to a long-term relationship" the famous socialite said in "Darrin Aaron's book" "When Love Takes Over." "That was one of the smartest decisions I ever made." "We dated for two weeks and allowed ourselves to proceed with caution, but by the second week, we jumped right in once we realized how strong our feelings were for each other and made it offical" DJ added. (They also proclaimed their love by making out at several venues). Dubbed as the Gay Community's Black Gay Power couple, Baker and the socilaite have been making impacts by appearing together at various events as well as being featured in 'When Love Takes Over," a Black about Black Gay Couples, and while they seemed to be total opposites, they have several things in common. Both love entertainment, love to party and want to provide outlets for Gay performers to have places to share their talents.


5. Jovonnie & Citbwoi-Gay Porn Stars.
When fans of adult entertainment saw Jovonnie and Citibwoi appear in several porns together, there were whispers about them being a couple off screen. Fans and critics had noticed how their relationship was written in the script for the porn film "Home Alone" leaving many to take notice and wonder whether or not it was true. It was confirmed when they appeard in the productions of "Measuring Up," "Pay Back's a Bitch" where Jovonnie was topped by Citi on screen for the first time, and in "Black Nature" where they both showed their versatility in the first fuck scene of the flick, makings funs enticed and excited to see two Gay Black Porn stars in a committed relationship despite the profession, which consists of them having sex with different men. What makes this couple hot are their southern charm, love for each other, and their ability to resume their relationship after temporariy breaking up.


6. Dwayne Wade & Gabrielle Union-Basket Ball Player with the Miami Heat and Famous award-nominated Actress.
Many pictures of Dwayne and Gabrielle at an event appeared on the internet, many fans thought the two were an couple. Wade had reached out to Union to apologize for the rumors that had occurred. Little did either expect was the simply apology would blossom into a friendship, and later lead them to become one of entertainement's most admired and talked about Black Couples in Hollywood. In fact, Essence magazine loved them enough to do a cover story of the couple, which had them both flattered. What fans admire about the two is their love for each other and how they have many things in common despite Union being nine years older than Wade, and their different childhood upbringings. Many Blacks are happy to see Wade with a Dark-brown skinned sister.


7. Doug & Greg Spencer-Cooper-Author/Activist and Barber/Freelance Photgrapher.
The first time I met Doug & Greg Spencer Cooper was at the 2000 Harlem Book Fair. As me and my best friend author/blogger Donald Peebles posed for photographs with Doug, Greg had made sure our photo shoot went smoothly, showing the amount of love and care he has for his Black Husband. The story of how they met is interesting. Doug had gotten out of an long-term relationship and was intent on being single, and one day while he was hanging out, Greg had approached him and introduced himself to him. Doug peeped his game, but later had a change of heart. "That's when my heart sank because I saw a young man struggling with keeping his sexuality a secret" Doug said in Darin Aaron's book "When Love Takes Over." "I immediately wanted to befriend him, like a big brother to mentor him." "Our friendship immediately blossomed" Greg added along with him revealing that he was two months shy of his 18th birthday when they met. Doug told him they can meet again on his birthday and Greg celebrated his birthday with the man who would be his husband. As mentiond earlier, they truly care about each other and support each other's careers and goals as a way to maintain their friendship.

DA-PROFESSOR'S FAVORITE NOVELS OF 2011

Many hot author's penned some hot novels that kept readers' eyes glued to the page.

1. MIDNIGHT BY SISTA SOULJAH
2. GODDESS OF VENGENGE BY JACKIE COLLINS
3. CHULITO BY CHARLES RICE-GONZALEZ
4. MOGUL BY TERRANCE DEAN
5. SKELETONS IN THE CLOSET BY SABRINA A HUNTER
6. ONE LYFE TO LIVE BY ERIC GRAY
7. EVICTION NOTICE BY KWAN
8. TIL IT HAPPENS TO YOU-KRISTOFER CLARKE
9. NATURAL BORN KILLERS-TERRY WROTTEN
10. TO LIVE AND DIE IN LA-TERRY WROTTEN

DA-PROFESSOR'S FAVORITE COLLABS OF 2011

Many artist joined forces and created some hot joints, bringing their induvidual talents together.

1. HEY MUMA-CAM'RON & VADO
2. CRUSH ON YOU-THE NEW BOYS AND Y.G.
3. WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT?-ENVY AND BLACK KARRINGTON
4. JUSTICE-MR. DEAZL AND MR. VANN
5. GET MONEY-INFINTE WITH KAOZ AND MILAN EMPRESS
6. 24 HOURS TO LIVE-SWANNY RIVER WITH INFINITE, LAST OFFENCE, SONNY LEWIS, KING JABBAR, KAOZ, SHORTY ROC AND BONEINTEL
7. I SPOKE TOO SOON-SHALIEK RIVERS AND FRED THE GODSON
8. I'M IN LOVE-LOCO NINJA WITH LUMDIEE
9. MOTIVATION-KELLY ROWLAND AND LIL' WAYNE AND LAY IT ON ME-KELLY ROWLAND AND BIGSEAN
10-WET THE BED-CHRIS BROWN AND LUDACRIS
11. FRONT & SINNER-KAY'VION AND MIKE MILAN
12. NEED YOUR LOVING-EFFICAL DUDLEY WITH AVENUE

DA-PROFESSOR'S FAVORITE COMEBACKS OF 2011

2011 was a memorable year for many recording artist, who made great comebacks, and gaining a new legion of fans, while maintaining ties with their longtime fans, who have kept their legacies alives. Here is my list.


1. CHRIS BROWN-SINGER/SONGWRITER/ACTOR
Since the incident with his jealous ex Rhianna, many have written Chris Brown off, by banning his music, and dogging him in the press. Well Chris Breezy came back in a big way. First in 2010 he performed a tribute to his Idol Motown Legend Michael Jackson on the BET Awards, then he released two mix tapes. This year, he released his fourth studio album F.A.M.E. which debutted at # 1, and had fans, who were afraid to admit that they loved him, saying his name. He was able to let people know that everybody needs a second chance, and the fans have forgiven him.

2. OAKTOWN'S 357-HIP-HOP LEGENDS AND MC HAMMER'S ORIGINAL BACKGROUND DANCERS
With the creation of You Tube, many fans had expressed their love for Hip-Hop group Oaktown's 357, who had disbanded in 1992. The positive comments, have inspired member Sweet LD to reconnect with her former group members Terrible T and Little P, who had left the group due to being cheated out of money by MC Hammer. The trio did appear on a few live internet radio shows, creating a buzz and interest by fans, who requested that they record some new music. Well Sweet LD and Little P dropped a hot and sexy single titled "Get Up On It" which has been getting good reviews and shows that they haven't lost their touch. They also were (finally) honored in Texas for their contributions to Hip-Hop.

3. MARY WILSON-ORIGINAL SUPREME, MOTOWN LEGEND, BEST SELLING AUTHOR.
For the past decade, original Supreme Mary Wilson has told several journalist that she was working on a new album, leaving many happy and wondering which direction she would go musically. Well Mary's single "Life's Been Good To Me," been getting lots of spins on internet radio, and lots of sales on I-Tunes. With it's positive lyrics and her sultry vocals, Mary is showing the fans and industries, that she's more than a sexy lady and a former background singer.

DA-PROFESSOR'S FAVORITE PORNSTARS OF 2011

With the emergence of X-Tube, Porn Hub and other porn sites, many porn stars have became famous and have many fans masturbating to their work on screen.



1. CUBAN MICHAELS
2. ROMEO STORM
3. SARGE
4. BRETT EVERTT
5. RED BULL
6. REMY MARS
7. TRAPP BOY
8. JOHNNY JONHES
9. USHER RICHBANKS
10. ARQUEZ
11. EXTASCY BABY
12. CREAMZ
13. MANNY BABY

DA-PROFESSORS FAVORITE VIDEOS OF 2011

1. MARSHA AMBRIOUS-FAR AWAY
This video was sad, touching, innovative and touches on several topics and issues including friendship, homophobia, bullying and suicide. I also loved how the former member of Floerty had two masculine guys rocking Urban gear (fitted caps, baggy jeans and timberlands) as oppossed to using overly flamboyant guys to play a gay couple. The sad yet touching part of the video is the message that she wrote talking about how she lost a friend to sucide, and to accept alternative lifestyles. This video became a hit with the Gay Community and many ignorant homophobes were pissed at her for winning awards for this song, but like she said in the video's message, If I saved one life, I have done my job.


2. FARRAD-THE WAY YOU DO.
Fun, energetic, colorful, and creative is how I can describe this video by this talented singer/songwriter/dancer. The video matches the song's 50's 60's feel with graphics, wardrobe that echos, I Dream of Jeanie, Bewitched, Happy Days, Motown and The Jackson 5. The fun part of the video is when Farrad is dancing with lifeless body dressed with prep sweaters, jeans and leather jackets. Every dance video doesn't have to be in the club all the time.

3. AMBITION-SHE WANNA
Pretty Ricky's second former lead singer Ambition has been on his grind, and working hard to put Pittsburg on the music map, and he's done a great job by coming up with a hot video that showcases, his dancing skills, and his sensual and sexy sides. This video features him leading a group of friends on motorcycles to a club, that has people dancing, chilling, but the video begins to get hot when he sees an sexy lady, who captures his eye and sensing that she's not happy with her man, he has a White female stripper inform her that he wants to talke to her. As she attempts to approach him, her man tries to grab her, but he has his security intervene, and she goes into a private room, for prvate party with him and White Chick and later leads into a video preview of his single "Under Ya Skin" and his single "You Know What I'm Saying" His video echos The Isley Brothers/Angela Winbush video "Floating On Your Love," but unlike the video where Lil' Kim confronts Mr. Biggs for standing her up, Ambition is seen dancing with the lady he stole. I loved how Ambition casted a Dark-skinned lady to be the lead and main object for the video, but it would have been hotter had they kissed at the end.

4. CHRIS BROWN-SHE AINT YOU
Michael Jackson has influenced many people in the industry including Chris Brown, who the late Motown legend spoke very highly of in his interview with Ebony Magazine. Well Chris has been paying homage to Jackson in his concerts, by performing medleys of Jackson's hits, and at many awards shows including the 2010 BET Awards, which is an event everybody still talks about. Well Brown finally paid the ulitmate tribute with his video "She Ain't You" which features the sexy singer performing various moves and poses that made Jackson famous, as well as donning fedoras, and suits in various colors and background that were used in Jackson's Thriller and Ghost short films. The cheorgraphy is great and it makes you think you're watching a MJ video. I loved how he wrote a tribute to him at the beginning, which shows he true love for the King of Pop.

5. LESTER GREENE-RUSSIAN ROULETTE
Gay Rapper Lester Greene is known for making cutting edge music. Well the video he did for this song was also innovative in a way; he had Out Hip-Hop producer Swanny River as the lead, which was a bold and good move being how many in the Gay community tend to shun Gays who are large and full-figured. Especially the Black and Latinos. While the video was short and deals with a guy creeping on his wife with a man, the video did had some great shots and edits, that makes the viewers tune in to see what's gonna happen next as well as hit replay to see if they missed anything.

6. KAOZ-KEEP IT HUMAN
Kaoz has been doing music and video that has gone agains the grain, but for his single "Keep It Human" he decided to do a video that is simple, yet empowering and creative. The clips of the mother having dinner with her daughter adds elements of humanity and love along with the mural of the a Black family together shows unity along with the clips of Kaoz and an Asian Guy (sepeartely) holding signs that reads that encouraes viewers to stay strong and to strive for excellence.

7. SHORTY ROC-I'M A RAPPER.
When Out award winning Rapper Shorty Roc decided to film a video for his single "I'm A Rapper" it should have come as no suprise, that he chosed to film it in Downtown Brooklyn, an section where many legendary rappers like Big Daddy Kane and Biz Markie would battle and freestyle and it's also the place where many rappers and authors be be grinding to get sales, which is what he incoporated into the video, which features Roc and producer Swanny River out selling CD's and showing those who copped them watching his video on the internet pleased with the product they brought. The close ups captures his hard and sexy sides.