Quencie Interviews Jason Lee of Love & Hip Hop Hollywood

Last week I went to a press event at OWN for their docu-series 'Raising Whitley' and 'Sweetie Pies' and I ran into Jason Lee of Love and Hip Hop Hollywood.  Jason Lee is a celebrity blogger who has dropped many exclusives on his website. He is most known for his connections and influence in the industry as a media and brand integration specialist.

Now he's also known for that drink he splashed in Hazel's face on the show Love and Hip Hop Hollywood. I was so happy Jason agreed to go live on periscope with me at the event.  We talk about Hazel, the upcoming LHHH reunion and his thoughts on Miles and Milan.

He's hilarious by the way so be ready to laugh. Watch my periscope interview with Jason below and make sure you check him out on Love and Hip Hop Hollywood.

Check out another interview I did with Jason about Whitney Houston's last red carpet which was at an event that he put on. Watch below.

Quencie Interviews Salt N Pepa

I interviewed Salt N Pepa on the set of Bounce TV's original series 'Family Time' during production of the series' 3rd season.  Salt N Pepa were special guest stars on the show.  'Family Time' stars Omar Gooding (Smart Guy) and Angell Conwell (The Young and the Restless).  This season of Family Time also featured Paula Jai Parker (Hollywood Divas) as Conwell's sister.

Salt (Cheryl James) and Pepa (Sandra Denton) talked about their most recent appearance on Lip Sync Battle on Spike TV.  The show is hosted by LL Cool J and supermodel co-host, Chrissy Teigen.  During the taping, the female MCs both chose pop anthems in Round 1 - Salt, Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone,” and Pepa, Katy Perry’s “Firework.”  For some of their fans, it may have seemed like an odd choice. For Salt and Pepa, however, it was a chance to live out their diva fantasies.  “We can’t sing, so we’ve been wanting to do this for years,”  Salt said, “It’s exhilarating.”  In Round 2, Salt turnt it up with a spot-on performance of Run-D.M.C.’s “It’s Tricky” - complete with the rap group’s signature track suits!  But Pepa, wearing a sequined jumpsuit, channeled in her inner disco diva with a rousing performance of Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive”  - and ended up taking home the belt.

Salt N Pepa also discussed being icons in the industry, the advise they have for their children getting started in the entertainment industry, as well as being on tour.  My time with these legends was full of fun and laughter ! Watch my interview below. 

Quencie Interviews Paula Jai Parker

I sat down with actress, Paula Jai Parker on the set of Bounce TV's original show, Family Time.  Family Time stars Omar Gooding (Smart Guy) and Angell Conwell (The Young and the Restless). Paula Jai Parker plays Conwell's sister.  This episode has an 80's theme and features Salt N Pepa.  

Paula talks to me about persevering in the entertainment industry, her first lead in a TV One film called 'The Summoning' and the hit reality show 'Hollywood Divas.' Watch our conversation Below.

Quencie Interviews Bentley Kyle Evans

I interviewed Bentley Kyle Evans who is the creator of Family Time.  He has also created Love That Girl, co-created The Jamie Foxx Show and produced the hit series Martin. He was the first African-American TV exec to have sitcoms airing on two networks simultaneously with the creation of "The Jamie Foxx Show" [1996-2001]. Both shows aired over 100 episodes and continue to run in world-wide syndication today.  He even repeated that history with the premiere of "My Crazy Roommate" on Bounce TV and "Love That Girl," on TV One.  He's continuing his history making trend with two shows on Bounce TV right now.  On top of all that he is a super cool down to earth guy. Watch my interview with him about his show 'Family Time' below. 

Quencie Interviews Lil Mama

I got a chance to watch Crazy, Sexy, Cool: The TLC Story with Lil Mama herself at Xen Lounge in Studio City, CA.  It was fun to watch her reaction to different parts of the VH-1 movie.  She could only watch in small doses. "I can't watch myself," she yelled one time.  Most of the time she live tweeted or walked around. She just couldn't sit still.  I on the other hand could not move.  It was uncanny how much Lil Mama looked like Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopez. 

She did a great job and seemed to have been born to play this part. According to Deadline, the biopic debuted to record ratings drawing 4.5 million viewers, making it the network's highest-rated telecast in more than five years.  Deadline also reported that CrazySexyCool was the No. 1 original cable movie for the year.  They even won the praises of Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes' sister, Reigndrop Lopes who praised Lil' Mama's performance. "I think Lil Mama did a good job at portraying my sis. She did her homework and studied Lisa. As a fan, I know it was important for Lil Mama to represent Lisa correctly and she did just that! Although the script didn't allow her to bring Lisa's true character to light. She did the best with what she had to work with. All the girls did a good job!" Check out my interview with Lil Mama following the screening. Watch below. 

Quencie Interviews Faith Evans

I sat down one-on-one with Faith Evans at a recording studio in Hollywood. In this interview I got to know Faith Evans in an intimate yet fun way.  I found out things you never heard her talk about until now.  This is a "Must-See" interview. Faith even sings something exclusive from her days as a kid growing up in Brick City.  That's Newark, NJ for those of you who don't know. What are you waiting for? Move your mouse down and click play on this interview with the original first lady of Bad Boy, Faith Evans.   

Quencie Interviews Meagan Good & DeVon Franklin

I interviewed actress Meagan Good and her film executive, husband DeVon Franklin at Roland Martin's Hollywood Soiree in Beverly Hills. It was great to interview this beautiful couple.  I talked with Meagan about her film roles, marriage with DeVon and her connection to Whitney Houston. Watch below.
 

Tam, Meagan and Quencie

Quencie Interviews Erika Alexander

Remember Maxine Shaw, Attorney at Law from the hit 90's sitcom Living Single? Well, I do! I love Erika Alexander and the role that she made so iconic. I was elated to get a chance to interview her at Roland Martin's Hollywood Soiree.  We talked all things 'Cosby Show' and 'Living Single.'  Erika also told us about her role in AMC's Low Winter Sun and a comic book that she, her husband, and brother created called Concrete Park.

My Producer Tam and Erika Alexander

When my producer, Tam spotted Erika in the room no interview mattered but the one with her. I'm a big fan too, but Tam is a Stan. She has been wanting to meet Erika forever. So glad she finally did.  It was also great to experience just how kind Erika was. I always like to mention when someone is kind, because everyone isn't, so when they are, it should be noted.  A little bit of kindness can go such a long way. 

We always appreciate when the people we loved are actually loveable.  As much as we all loved Max on Living Single, Erika Alexander is even cooler!  Watch my interview with Erika below.

I'm a little wordy but sincere in this interview. Thank you Q. You are a doll. Congrats on your media empire. x. e. https://t.co/V3InOcT1sH

— Erika Alexander (@EAlexTheGreat) October 16, 2015

Quencie Interviews Miki Howard

Back when I was in college I played Miki Howard's song, 'Come Share My Love' so much that my audio cassette tape almost broke. I love that song so much!  It was my first introduction to Miki's amazing voice which made me an instant fan. Fast forward years later in LA when I got to experience my very first Miki Howard concert at a jazz spot named 'Catalina' located on Sunset Boulevard.   Her show was exciting and fun. Miki leaves the crowd always wanting more.  

The super cool part was after the concert I actually got to sit down and interview her. This was my first celebrity sit down interview in LA so I was nervous beyond words, especially since I had her song on repeat during all my college years. Miki's personality was fun and immediately put me at ease. We had a good time and even became friends! I love me some Miki Howard! Watch below. 

Quencie Interviews Jenifer Lewis

Is there a movie that Jenifer Lewis has not been in?  Check your DVD collection or your TV guide and I'm sure you will see her name come up more than it doesn't.  This veteran actress is a treasured legend, especially to Black Hollywood.  She is so good that she makes you love and hate her at the same time depending on what role she's playing. Who didn't love her in 'Jackie's Back'? And who didn't hate her in, 'What's Love Got To Do With It' starring Angela Bassett or 'Not Easily Broken' starring Taraji P. Henson.  

I had the distinct honor to sit down with Jenifer Lewis in the backyard of her Hollywood mansion.  If you liked Jenifer Lewis before, be prepared to fall in love with her after this interview. Her honesty, words of wisdom, and humor, are what you will immediately feel after watching this interview.  Watch my interview with the original Dreamgirl below. You will walk away inspired.

Quencie Interviews Eric Benét

Quencie and Eric Benét 

I got to interview one of R&B Music's greatest tenors!  My interview with the soulful sangin Eric Benét took place inside his recording studio in Studio City, CA.  It was right before the release of his album 'The One,' which was distributed on his own record label. This guy is not only FINE he is down to earth and beyond talented. His beautiful love songs are songs that you make babies with and get married to. Watch our conversation below.

Dawnn Lewis Talks Bowling, Sickle Cell, Urban League & New Projects

I interviewed Dawnn Lewis on the red carpet of at Kiki Shepard's 12th annual bowling challenge. Dawnn is not only a close friend of Kiki Shepard, who carries the sickle cell trait, but she is also on the board of the Kiss Foundation.    I always get a thrill with the actress who once played 'Jaleesa' in one of the best TV shows ever, A Different World.  If you have no idea what I'm talking about please get yourself Netflix today and binge watch 'A Different World! ' You can now catch Dawnn in a recurring role on the hit TV shows MAJOR CRIMES & BETTER CALL SAUL, and as the narrative voice for BET’s bio-series BEING.  Find out what projects Dawnn has coming up next and the awesome animated projects you may have heard her in but never knew was her. Watch below.  

Richard Brooks Talks Being Mary Jane

I interviewed Richard Brooks at Kiki Shepard's 12th annual charity bowling challenge for sickle cell awareness.  Most viewers might recognize Richard Brooks from his days on Law and Order as A.D.A. Paul Robinette, but all I wanted to talk about was the 3rd season of Being Mary Jane. Find out what Richard says about his character, who is the brother to Mary Jane played by Gabrielle Union in season 3. Watch below.

Quencie Interviews Bishop T.D. Jakes

I had the honor and privilege of attending an intimate Q&A and book signing with Bishop T.D. Jakes at the William Morris Endeavor Screening Room in Beverly Hills, CA.  Many other celebrities and well known industry executives were also in attendance.  Some included: Robert Townsend, Sheryl Underwood, Robi Reed, Debra Martin Chase, and DeVon Franklin.  The conversation surrounding Bishop Jakes #1 New York Times Best Selling book, Instinct was led by Stephen Galloway of The Hollywood Reporter.  Within minutes of Bishop Jakes speaking the room was filled with inspiration, motivation, and an amen corner. To be 2 feet away from this great man of God and have the opportunity to experience his spirit-filled message, was beyond amazing.

A few days later I sat down with Bishop Jakes for my own one-on-one interview at his office in Los Angeles.  I was so nervous that I completely went blank in the beginning of the interview! I was silent when I should have been asking a question.  Can we say awkward! Lol! Somehow I got it together and  was able to complete the interview.  Watch below.

KiKi Shepard’s 12th Annual Celebrity Bowling Challenge for Sickle Cell Disease Awareness

On Saturday September 26, 2015 I attended the 12th Annual Celebrity Bowling Challenge to ‘raise awareness of Sickle Cell Disease’ hosted by  KiKi Shepard and The K.I.S Foundation.

The event was held at PINZ Entertainment Center in Studio City, CA.  The doors opened at 6:30 p.m. with celebrity bowlers, sponsors and supporters walking the Red carpet and playing a 2-game bowling tournament at 8pm. There was also onsite bone marrow registration, opportunity drawings, awards, surprise entertainment, food and a variety of event goodies.

“As we celebrate the 12th anniversary of the “Celebrity Bowling Challenge”, I remain extremely grateful to our amazing supporters. It takes a village to make a difference in the lives of many.  The K.I.S. Foundation, Inc. is proud to be a part of that global village.  We remain committed to educating the public about SCD, and are dedicated to improving the social health and quality of life for SCD patients and families here in Southern California. That is exactly what the Celebrity Bowling Challenge does and has done, year after year,” says Founder KiKi Shepard.

Raising awareness for Sickle Cell has always been a personal mission for KiKi Shepard (Actress/ Host of “It’s Showtime at The Apollo”) since she discovered she carries the SCD trait and lost a close friend to this crippling disease. KiKi, her celebrity friends, and corporate supporters  showed up strong to raise awareness of Sickle Cell Disease and the need to get tested NOW!  Check out all of my red carpet interviews with celebrities, Rocky Carroll (NCIS), Tonya Banks (Little Women), Dawnn Lewis, Richard Brooks (Being Mary Jane), Elise Neal (Hollywood Divas), Omar Gooding (Family Time) and Affion Crockett.  Watch below. 

New Music: Gerald 'Da Gospel Truth' Jones Presents Independent Spirit, Vol 1.

Today is a great day because it is the official release date of my good friend Gerald 'DaGospelTruth' Jones first project, Gerald 'Da Gospel Truth' Jones Presents Independent Spirit, Vol 1. with some amazing artists. This is the first installment in a series that shines light on, and provides a platform for, the undercurrent of great "independent' gospel music.  Gerald and I worked together as producers for the Fox TV show, Divorce Court.  Even as a TV producer Gerald always had his hand on the pulse of what was hot in music. When it comes to gospel he knows his stuff. Anything he puts together is an automatic recommend! 

Independent Spirit, Vol. 1 features "If it Had Not Been," by gospel soul band SENSERE, and other brand new music from some of the hottest unsigned talent in the country.  This compilation is a stunning hand-picked collection of 14 ear-worthy Gospel songs from an impressive roster of largely unknown diverse talent.  The project features all new music from Deah Harriott, Bam Travis and Chris Jackson (Toni Braxton, Tank, The Isley brothers) in addition to songs from Bryan Pound, God's Chosen, and Danielle Munizzi to name a few. 

PLEASE make sure you head over to iTunes or Amazon and download this today! The song "I Believe GOD" is special on the album because Gerald Jones actually cowrote it with his music partners @justindjuane & @carloswoodard. I am super proud of my friend! He is bringing fresh new music to the market and allowing us all to be inspired by amazing new artists that we may have never heard of otherwise. Support Gerald and these emerging independent gospel artists by downloading one of the many the singles or the whole album below.  Watch Gerald talk about the album in the video below.

Sidebar: Congrats Gerald! I bought my copy! 

Gerald Da Gospel Truth Jones Presents Independent Spirit, Vol 1

$9.49

Mixed Bag Music Group, Llc.

Buy on Amazon

The story behind "Independent Spirit, Vol 1"...

We are super excited for the release of "Independent Spirit, Vol 1", available now at iTunes (https://itun.es/us/c_n28) & Amazon (http://amzn.to/1LHqOz2) and other digital services! Learn more about this unprecedented compilation of 14 up-and-coming independent gospel artists, curated by blogger, songwriter and A&R exec Gerald "Da Gospel Truth" Jones.

Posted by The Independent Spirit on Friday, September 4, 2015

Happy Birthday to China Anne McClain!

China Anne McClain with her sisters

Happy 17th Birthday to China Anne McClain who is an actress and singer that became known for playing Jazmine on Tyler Perry's House of Payne. She released the Billboard Hot 100 song "Calling All the Monsters" and received the 2014 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Performance for her role in Disney's A.N.T. Farm. She also plays the lead character, Gabby Harrison, in the 2014 Disney TV movie How to Build a Better Boy. I got a chance to ask China how it felt be nominated for a NAACP Image award before she actually won. Watch below. 

Happy Birthday to Loretta Devine [VIDEO]

Happy Belated Birthday to Loretta Devine! It is hard to believe that she turned 66 on August 21, 2015. She is one of my favorite actresses. Check out an interview I did with her on the red carpet of the NAACP Theater Awards. She received a well deserved Lifetime Achievement award that night. Watch below.