My Review of The Whitney Film [LISTEN]

I went to see the Whitney film last week and it still has me in my feelings! I had to travel 2 hrs just to see it because it was not playing in any theater close by me. I would only travel this far to see a film about Whitney Houston.  Listen below to my anchor podcast review of the film and let me know your thoughts.

This is my review of the Whitney Film .

Check out my fan documentary For The Love of Whitney below.

Behind The Photo: Phylicia Rashad

When actress Phylicia Rashad came to my alma mater, Clark Atlanta University, to speak I knew I had to skip class to see her.  I made sure I was one of the first ones in the audience. I had loved Phylicia Rashad from her role on The Cosby Show and I was eager to hear what she had to say.  When I entered the auditorium, I went straight to the front row and sat down.  Good thing I came early, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to get a good seat.  Within minutes, the auditorium was filled with students. 

It wasn't long afterwards that Phylicia Rashad was being introduced.  As soon as she finished her speech and opened the floor for questions, my hand shot up like a rocket.  Phylicia Rashad pointed to me to ask the very first question .  When I begin to ask my question she interrupted me and said, "Honey, you need to back to the microphone so everyone can hear your question." I turned around and looked at how far back the microphone was from where I was sitting and gave her a look of lazy desperation. I smiled and asked, "Can't I just ask you from right here?" Lord, why oh why did I say that to Phylicia Rashad?! 

"Girl." She said.  "You better get up and go to that microphone.  You ought to be glad that you even got legs to walk."  Everyone immediately started laughing.  I suddenly felt like I was in a scene from the Cosby Show.  As instructed, I got up, put my head down, and slowly walked back to the microphone.  By the time I made it back there I had to get at the end of a long line of students who were also waiting to ask her a question.  When my turn finally came she said, "Ahh I see you made it. Everyone let's give Ms. Thing a hand for walking all the way back to the microphone."  Everyone roared with handclaps and laughter.  It was a very comical moment, at least for them it was.  If you ever watched one episode of The Cosby Show you knew not to mess with Claire Huxtable but that day I learned that goes for Phylicia Rashad too lol! Even though I skipped class that day I still learned a lesson and got scolded by a famous TV mom.

Why Texting is The Lazy Way of Connecting with Your Loved Ones

We live in a world where social media rules as the way to connect. Because people over share every minute of their day you can feel like you really know someone you have never met. But what about the people you do know?  The ones that you care about and are a part of your inner circle. How do you communicate with them?  Most of us use the same ways we connect with a stranger to connect with our precious loved ones. If it's not through social media, it's almost always a text or an email but very rarely is it an actual phone call.  Let me just be blunt, texting is the lazy path to connect with the ones you love.  Texting someone is not the same as calling and FaceTiming is not the same as visiting them in person.

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Texting and emailing require the least amount of effort in a relationship of any kind, so the fact that we have collectively chosen to communicate mostly through that way makes me sad and mad at the same time. Sad because some people really think they are connecting in a deep way via text and mad because people want you to receive a text like it was a huge effort on their part. It is not. What a text tells me is that you don’t value me as much as I thought you did. You have taken the path of least resistance.  It does not deepen our relationship and there is almost always an opportunity to misinterpret someone’s tone, which can lead to taking well-meaning messages completely the wrong way.   If we are cool and I’ve never mentioned this to you please forgive me for allowing you to think that texting me was a form of communication that made me feel really connected to you, and super valued in your world.  It does not. 

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In this day and age, I understand I may be an anomaly with this one, but I’m okay with that. If texting or emailing is your primary form of communication with the people you care about and they feel it speaks volumes of love, value and connection for them as it does for you, stop reading now. But if you’re anything like me and it conveys that you are not worth a real effort to the other person please keep reading and start requiring more. Ask the other person for what you really want and what you really need to feel valued in the relationship and not just what is easy and convenient for them.

Now I’m not saying that texts or emails mean nothing, but when that is how you communicate 90 percent of the time you are in a relationship of diminishing returns. People text, email, inbox and DM strangers on Instagram all day every day, so tell me how is it special when they do it to you? It isn’t. 

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And group texts are the absolute worst. You’re telling me you feel the exact same way about everyone in the group and what you tell the one you can tell all?  I think not. There’s usually one core person that binds the rest of the group together, however, people carry on like the closeness is the same with everyone in the group when it is so the opposite. It’s just an easy way to stay connected with people you are unwilling to put in one on one time with. Make no mistake about it, if you feel only having a text-based relationship with someone reduces your value; imagine that same person making you a part of a group text.  Whether anyone says it or not most of the group is only interested in a few people on the list and could utterly give two shits about everybody else. 

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This really shows its ugly head when your phone keeps buzzing with responses from people you have never met because someone has added you to a group text or a Facebook group without your knowledge. In these cases, we make no bones about exiting stage left and getting out but anything less than that we suffer quietly without saying a word.  Now if you love group texts and are super close to everybody in your group then, of course, I’m not talking to you. I’m talking to the folks who are in groups and want to get out.

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At least Facebook gives you the option to leave with the ability to never be asked back again.   However, if you are in a group text you have to actually voice to someone that you want out. And nobody's really doing that. They just chime in when necessary or become that group member who never responds to anything. Now I do believe group texts can sometimes be helpful like when it comes to logistical things such as a time change or new venue location, planning a brunch date or a girls trip that everybody really wants to go on.  But just to be grouped together with everybody whom I feel varying levels of intimacy with is not special to me at all. It feels more like being in a town hall meeting where people give their opinions about random stuff I could care less about.  I feel it’s a lazy way to connect and impersonal at best. But just like anything else in life, if it works for you and your peoples, ignore me, and carry on.

I feel special when people I care about put forth an effort to call, connect and share something of value with me.  When they FaceTime me because hearing my voice is just not enough when they are away from me, or sending me a thoughtful gift to communicate what I mean to them.  And the absolute ultimate, hold on, wait for it...to actually get in a car or take a flight to visit me because technology and gifts just won’t do it for them anymore.

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I know for some people in this generation texting and using social media will suffice just fine. They are happy if you just respond to them with an emoji whether it is individually or in a group.  That will never be enough for me. No text or email will ever replace someone actually picking up the phone to call me or getting in their car to come see me or FaceTiming me because they are far away and my voice is just not enough.

We allow people to be their most lazy self with us and then wonder why we are not fulfilled in our relationships. People send you a one-line text and act like they really connected with you. Puh-lease, I feel more connected to my Twitter followers or YouTube subscribers who respond positively to a thought I shared or a video I worked hard to create and upload.

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If you love someone and all you are doing is texting, inboxing, dm’ing or shouting him or her out in a group text please step your game up. But hey, I’m self-aware enough to realize I’m not the average bear and it’s also 2018.  So if texting, inboxing, dm’ing or group texting the people you care about sincerely meets all their needs and works best for you just go ahead and disregard everything I wrote. This is specifically for those of us who need to require more to feel valued by the people we care about.  I know typing behind a keyboard may be more comfortable for you, but know that as human beings we are equipped to do more. So, stop being lazy, and put in some real effort to communicate beyond your phone or inbox.

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Conveying real value to the ones you love will always pay off in the end.  And this rant is not exclusive to any particular type of relationship. This lazy way of connecting has affected us all, be it a parent, a child, a friend, a marriage or a lover. Do more. The dividends will upgrade your relationship to the one you actually deserve instead of the one you are currently settling for.

So until my next rant, I must now stop typing, put my phone down and actually go engage face to face with someone I care about.

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The Best of Studio Q in 2017 - A Year in Review

Tony Rock Interview

My top Studio Q moment of 2017 was interviewing Tony Rock about being the host of TV ONE's new show, "The Game of Dating." During my interview, I asked Tony what he thought about Steve Harvey's meeting with Donald Trump. Tony did not hold back one bit. His answer made this clip go viral! Watch below.

My interview clip with Tony was viewed by over 2 million people on Facebook, by hundreds of thousands of people on Instagram, and became the headline of countless blog posts and radio show segments.   It even made it into the conversation on The Breakfast Club and Dish Nation.  

Tony had me laughing non-stop. He was so entertaining that I think the entire interview should have went viral.  If you want to get your life please press play and watch our entire conversation below!

Jenifer Lewis Interview

Quencie and Jenifer Lewis at her home in LA

In December I sat down for a one-on-one interview with Jenifer Lewis in her wonderful home to discuss her new book, The Mother of Black Hollywood.  The last time I interviewed this treasured diva was back in 2012 in the backyard of her Hollywood mansion by the pool.  It was one of my best Studio Q interviews to date, so I was not sure if we could top that moment in time.

But leave it to the great Jenifer Lewis to always out do herself. She always gives 2,000 % percent and this interview was no different. I had the time of my life with her and it was a great way to close out the year.  This interview was so good that it served as an early Christmas present for me.   We discussed her acting career, including starring on "Black-ish," being sexually assaulted, how she dealt with a scam artist, being bipolar, advice to the millennials and so many other things.  She even invited me and Tam (my Producer and best friend) to sing "In These Streets" with her at the piano. The initial song went viral and was sang by Jenifer, Brandy and Roz Ryan. Watch our attempt to sing along with Jenifer Lewis. It was not pretty but it was oh so much fun! Later, scroll down to watch my amazing interview with this legend.

Check out my interview with Jenifer Lewis below.

David Foster Honored by

The Grammy Museum 

On Tuesday September 19, 2017 I covered the third annual fundraising gala honoring 16-time GRAMMY® Award winner David Foster, which was hosted by The GRAMMY Museum®.  The Gala presented David Foster with the Architects of Sound Award in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to music.  Proceeds from the night benefitted the Museum's newly expanded music education programs, which were integrated with those of its sister organization, the GRAMMY Foundation, earlier this year.  

Terry Lewis and Quencie

Not only was I thrilled to interview the great David Foster on the red carpet, but I also interviewed the iconic Terry Lewis of the producing duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis who launched the career of thee Janet Jackson.  Participating in the evening’s celebration was 27-time GRAMMY winner Quincy Jones, singer/songwriter and actress Katharine McPhee; R&B, pop and gospel singer, and "American Idol" season two winner Ruben Studdard; recording artist and “American Idol” star Pia Toscano; singer/songwriter Sheléa; and operatic and classical crossover tenor Fernando Varela. The fundraiser was presented by Cheryl and Haim Saban, and Brian and Adria Sheth. Check out my Studio Q interviews from the red carpet below 

The Bodyguard Musical Starring

Deborah Cox

In May of 2017, I covered LA's premiere of the hit musical, THE BODYGUARD at The Hollywood Pantages theater.  It is an award–winning musical based on the smash–hit film of the same name. Who could forget Kevin Coster as Frank Farmer, the former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron, played by the late great Whitney Houston? It was Whitney's first film, so I was super excited to see this show and so was a lot of Hollywood! Stars who came out included, Angela Bassett, Loni Love, Erica Cash, Erica Campbell, Bill Bellamy and Loretta Devine.

Grammy® Award-nominated and multi-platinum R&B/pop recording artist and film/TV actress Deborah Cox stars as Rachel Marron. In the role of the bodyguard Frank Farmer, is television star Judson Mills. I am such a huge Whitney Houston fan so I am very biased when it comes to other people singing her songs, but as soon as Deborah Cox opened her mouth - I was sold! Based on Lawrence Kasdan’s 1992 Oscar nominated Warner Bros. film, and adapted by Academy Award-winner (Birdman) Alexander Dinelaris, THE BODYGUARD featured songs recorded by Whitney Houston including: One Moment in Time, I Have Nothing, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, Saving All My Love, Run to You, So Emotional and her cover version of Dolly Parton's I Will Always Love You.  What I loved most about this show is that Deborah Cox was not trying to be Whitney Houston.  She made the songs her own all while celebrating Whitney at the same time. If you love Whitney Houston, then this was a MUST-SEE! If you love the film, The Bodyguard then you are going to like how they adapted it to the stage. And if you are a Deborah Cox fan, you will be in heaven from beginning to end. You will find yourself singing along and celebrating Whitney in a positive way. Watch my red carpet interviews below.

Heroes in The Struggle Gala Hosted by Empire's Jussie Smollett

Jussie Smollett and Quencie

In September  I covered the Heroes in the Struggle Gala Reception and Awards Presentation held at the Darryl F. Zanuck Theater at 20th Century Fox Studios in Los Angeles. Every year the Black AIDS Institute inducts a select group of individuals and organizations that have made heroic contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Black America into the Heroes in the Struggle Hall of Fame.  

This year's theme was "Black Men Honoring Black Women" and included Taraji P. Henson, Alfre Woodard, Laverne Cox, Vanessa Williams, Gina Belafonte, Gina Brown, and Novant Health as the Corporate Hero. Board member and event chair, Jussie Smollett served as the evening's host and celebrated R&B singer/songwriter Ledisi who performed a special tribute. 

Check out my Studio Q interviews from the red carpet of this event below:

Vanessa Bell Calloway's

60th Birthday Party

In March I attended Vanessa Bell Calloway's Sexty 60th Birthday party at the Cicado Club in Los Angeles. Vanessa Bell Calloway kicked off her This Is My Sexty campaign for Women's History Month to encourage women to share their secrets to mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Visit HowDoYouRockYourAge.com to learn more about her campaign. Currently, Calloway stars in the hit series Saints & Sinners (Bounce TV) 

Vivica A. Fox and Vanessa Bell Calloway

It is very clear, that 60 never looked so good. Vanessa's party was a pink and grand affair. From the candy bar to the elegant red carpet, everyone who attended had a wonderful time. Some of the attendees include: Vivica A. Fox, Tina Knowles, Star Jones, Debbie Allen, Glen Turman, Jackee' Harry, Kym Whitley, Richard Lawson, James Pickens Jr., Vanessa Williams and many more!

Check out my Studio Q interviews from Vanessa's birthday party below:

T-Boz Unplugged Charity Event

For Sickle Cell Disease 

I attended T-Boz's Unplugged charity event back in January which was created to raise awareness and funds for Sickle Cell Disease for which T-Boz is an Ambassador and Role Model for.  I spoke to Naughty by Nature, Dawnn Lewis, Kristian Alfonso, Dorien Wilson, Don Benjamin, Lamon Archey, Tonya Banks and T-Boz's daughter Chase on the red carpet before the show.  They were all eager and excited to come out and support such a worthy cause.  

This was my first time at the Avalon Hollywood and I absolutely loved the ambience. The show was so much fun and featured incredible performances from Snoop Dogg, Da Brat, Naughty by Nature and T-Boz who also sang 'Unpretty' with her daughter Chase.  Funds from the event will support The MLK Sickle Cell Outreach Center of Los Angeles and The Sickle Cell Support Group of Atlanta.  Check out my red carpet interviews below.

Bobbi Kristina Movie on TV One

In October I had a great time interviewing Joy Rovaris who starred as Bobbi Kristina and Nadji Jeter who played Nick Gordon from TV One's movie, Bobbi Kristina. The story delves into Bobbi Kristina's struggle to come to terms with her mother's sudden departure as well as the complexities of her own life. Opposite Joy Rovaris, Bobbi Kristina stars Demetria McKinney who embodies the heart, flair and essence of the legendary Whitney Houston. The film also stars Hassan Johnson as Bobby Brown, and Vivica A. Fox as Pat Houston.  It was directed by child actor Ty Hodges and Executive Produced by Tracey Baker Simmons and Wanda Shelley, who were the creators of the docu-series Being Bobby Brown and The Houstons. 

Check out my Studio Q interview below. 

"When Love Kills" LA Premiere

The Los Angeles premiere of the TV One movie, When Love Kills at the Harmony Gold Theater was the first event that I was actually absent for in 2017. I was so lucky that my producer Tam and friend Tammi were able to cover for me on the red carpet.  They both did a great job! 

Tammi and Tam reppin for Studio Q on the red carpet

When Love Kills tells the tragic story of Falicia Blakely, a teen mom who only knows life in the fast-lane. When she becomes an exotic dancer, she attracts the attention of pimp and predator, Dino. His empty promises of a life together turn Falicia into a pawn in his dangerous games; she's forced to prove her love for him at the expense of innocent lives.  

When Love Kills stars: Niatia "Lil Mama" Kirkland (CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story), Lance Gross (House of Payne, Temptation), Tami Roman (Basketball Wives, Belle's) and Tasha Smith (For Better Or Worse, Empire) making her feature-length directorial debut.

Check out the Studio Q red carpet interviews below.

Maronzio Vance Interview

I sat down with comedian Maronzio Vance and discussed his co-starring role on the 2nd season of George Lopez's show "Lopez" which premiered in March on TV Land.  Maronzio Vance is a writer, actor, and comedian noted for his comedic timing in his roles for television shows. Vance began his acting career with roles in the series "JKX: The Jamie Kennedy Experiment" (WB, 2001-04) and "Wanda Does It" (2004-05). He also appeared on the television special "Jamie Foxx's Laffapalooza" (2004-07) which he talked about in our Studio Q interview. Maronzio continued his comedic performances throughout the early 2000s and the 2010s, appearing on"The Half Hour" (Comedy Central, 2011-15) and "Enlisted" (Fox, 2013-14). He also lent his voice to "Freaknik: The Musical" (Cartoon Network, 2009-2010).

This guy had me in stitches during most of the interview.  We covered so many topics including, his beef with Diddy and Bossip, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, why he hates Stay Woke and AF, and Lil Yachty appearing on an episode of "Lopez" this season. And all of it was funny.

 If you have never heard of Maronzio Vance before now, watch my interview below and I promise you won't ever forget him. His perspective on the world is smart and funny. Press play below and see what I mean.  

B.Slade Interview

In November of this year, I sat down with 3 time Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and producer, B. Slade (Formerly known as Tonex). He recently dropped his self-titled album, "B. Slade" on October 31st. This new album embodies all of the colorful characteristics that are within B. Slade, hence the name of one of his song titles, Ketchup & Mustard." This album is truly for the young and old, the hip and chic - for anyone who loves good music and wants to have a good time. 

Aside from his music, we discussed his sexuality, his family, the controversial interview with gospel singer, Lexi Allen, and starting over in his career.  This is an interview you don't want to miss. Press play below!  Afterwards head over to, BSladenow.com and download his new album, "B. Slade" on iTunes.

Don B. Welch Interview

I was excited and honored to interview Don B. Welch just days before the film adaptation of his popular inspirational stage play, The Lost Souls Café premiered on TV One. We covered so many topics in our conversation that if you never met him you will really feel like you know him after watching.  He was oozing with positivity and dripping with wisdom.  For those of you who may be unaware, Don B. Welch is an accomplished singer, actor, writer, director, playwright, producer and author. 

As a playwright, he has written and directed over 27 productions. The most successful being: The Bachelor Party, The Bachelorette Party, My Brothers Keeper, The Divorce and Fight Club.  Noted artists such as: Loretta Devine, Lynn Whitfield, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Dorien Wilson, Marla Gibbs, Ledisi, Kenny Lattimore, Dawnn Lewis, Jackee Harry, Freda Payne, Mary Wilson, Ananda Lewis, Flex Alexander, Shanice Wilson, Ellia English, Ginuwine, Malinda Williams, Keith Robinson, Darius McCrary, Carl Payne, Keith Robinson, Ernest L. Thomas, Judy Pace, Tatyana Ali & Essence Atkins have all been in a Don B. Welch production or film.

Press Play and enjoy my conversation with Don B. Welch. 

UNCF Masked Ball

On Saturday, March 18, 2017, I attended The Mayor's Masked Ball at the JW Marriott at LA LIVE in Los Angeles, CA. This is one of the largest events put on by UNCF in cities across the United States on the same evening. The LA chapter was hosted by Mayor Garcetti and honored Lonnie G. Bunch III, Founding Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and Marx Cazenave a well-known entrepreneur and business Hall of Fame inductee. The ball raised $500,000 for UNCF.

Attendees included: Mayor Eric Garcetti, Lonnie G. Bunch III (Founding Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture), Marx Cazenave (Entrepreneur ), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (I am Legend, Eureka), Michael Jai White (Why Did I Get Married), Laura Govan (Basketball Wives), Dawnn Lewis (Actress & singer), Tiffany Hines (Nikkita, Devious Maids), Lisa Nicole Cloud (Bravo TV's Married to Medicine), T’Keyah Crystal Keymah (In Living Color, That's So Raven), James Wright (WE tv’s “LA Hair”) and Darius McCrary (Next Day Air, Family Matters).

Check out my Studio Q interviews from the Mayor's Masked Ball event below.

Celebrity Connected Events Celebrating The Emmys, The Oscars and The MTV Movie Awards

Quencie Interviewing Football Player Rashad Jennings who won Dancing With The Stars

This year I attended the the Celebrity Connected Luxury Gifting Suite honoring the Emmys, The Oscars and The MTV Movie and TV awards.  I always have a blast at these events interviewing celebrities and discovering awesome new brands. 

Press play and check out some of my Studio Q coverage below. 

Breaking The Silence Awards

Benjamin Patterson (OWN 'Greenleaf'), Quencie & Laith Ashley (NBC 'Strut'),

On Sunday September 24, 2017, I covered the 2nd Annual Breaking the Silence Awards Ceremony & Luncheon held at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalow in Santa Monica, CA. Breaking the Silence Awards (BTSA) a fundraiser event, which recognized corporations and community leaders who use their platform of influence to advocate for Sexual & Domestic Abuse Awareness. BTSA raises funds to provide supportive services to GLBT survivors of sexual & domestic abuse. BTSA, a fundraising program of the I Love Me Foundation (ILMFDN), was established in 2015 by Hollywood publicist, Robert Harrell, to utilize the industry’s resources to engage the public in supporting new research efforts and to increase awareness about sexual trauma in the GLBT community.

Honorees included: William Institute Founding Executive Director, Brad Sears, Former West Hollywood Mayor, Abbe Land, OUT Magazine Managing Editor, R. Kurt Osenlund, Celebrity DJ & Music Producer, Zeke Thomas, Pulse Orlando Nightclub Shooting Survivor, Angel Colon.

Other guests included: Benjamin Patterson (OWN 'Greenleaf'), Jay Alexander (ANTM), Laith Ashley (NBC 'Strut'), Leeza Gibbons (Entertainment Tonight), James Wright Chanel (Youtube Personality, Pattie Pie Guy), Perez Hilton (Entertainment Blogger), Tammy Townsend (Disney 'K.C. Undercover'), Laura Govan (Basketball Wives LA) and many more.

Watch my Studio Q red carpet interviews below:

Kiyanna Simone Interview

In May I did a Skype interview with actress Kyanna Simone Simpson who played the younger version of Oprah Winfrey's character in the biopic surrounding Henrietta Lacks life called The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks on HBO. The film tells the true story of Henrietta Lacks, an African-American woman whose cells were used to create the first immortal human cell line. Told through the eyes of her daughter, Deborah Lacks (Oprah Winfrey), the film chronicles her search to learn about the mother she never knew and to understand how the unauthorized harvesting of Lacks’ cancerous cells in 1951 led to unprecedented medical breakthroughs, changing countless lives and the face of medicine forever.

I had so much fun talking to Kyanna about her career, her mentor Latanya Richardson Jackson and what it was like to meet and work with Oprah Winfrey, which was a dream come true for her.  This budding actress who is known for her recurring role on HBO’s miniseries Show Me a Hero is currently working on the film, White Boy Rick starring Matthew McConaughey.  

Check out our fun conversation below.

Ashley Ann Interview

In April I had such an amazing time interviewing Ashley Jones of Ashley Ann’s Events on Skype for Studio Q.  She is a talented award winning wedding and event designer who is a rockstar in her field.  You can find this late night biz builder @KingAshleyAnn sharing free social media tips to thousands of people every Monday - Thursday at 11:05 pm (CST) on the live-streaming Twitter app called Periscope. She is a social media genie who has been in business for 11 years and is quipped with a B.A. in Finance and M.B.A.  Ashley has made a name for herself by offering beautiful, unique, professional designs and productions. She inspires creative detail, and modern, elegant atmospheres. She is also an outstanding business woman excelling in social media lead generations, lead magnets, funnels, and return paths. 

In my conversation with Ashley, we discussed business, social media, her overcoming amazing personal obstacles in her life and so much more!  If you somehow missed this conversation in 2017 do yourself a favor and press play below.

Thanks to all of the celebrities who I sat down with this year and talked to on the red carpet. And a special thanks to my producer Tam for all that she has done in the name of Studio Q.  

Tam and Quencie - Dem Studio Q Girls

I could not have covered all of these amazing events and conduct these awesome interviews without her. She's been there for me since 2012 and I will forever appreciate and be eternally grateful for every contribution she has ever made for Studio Q. 

I'd also like to send a special shout out to anyone who has supported me online by pressing play on one of my interviews (Thanks Mom!), clicking like or share on Facebook, retweeting my interviews on Twitter or tapping the heart button on Instagram. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! I appreciate your support and I look forward to bringing you even more in 2018!

Jenifer Lewis of "Black-ish" Talks About Her New Book, "The Mother of Black Hollywood"

PHOTO COURTESY OF HARPER COLLINS

I sat down for a one-on-one interview with Jenifer Lewis in her wonderful home to discuss her new book, The Mother of Black Hollywood. In her book, Jenifer discusses her acting career, including starring on "Black-ish," being sexually assaulted, how she dealt with a scam artist, being bipolar, advice to the millennials and many other things. 

Growing up in Kinloch, MO, Jenifer knew that she was destined for fame. She headed to New York and pursued a career on Broadway, and since then, she has starred in a number of television shows and movies, including What's Love Got to Do With It, The Preacher's Wife, Jackie's Back, Meet the Browns and Disney's The Princess and the Frog. Definitely known as everybody's mother in movies, the title of her memoir is befitting. She's played everybody's mama from Whitney Houston in "The Preacher's Wife," Tina Turner's (Angela Bassett) mama in "What's Love Got to Do With it, to playing Tupac's mama in "Poetic Justice."

Quencie and Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis and Tam

Check out this wonderful and real interview with Jenifer. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes treat as Jenifer invites me and Tam (my Producer and best friend) to sing "In These Streets" with her at the piano. The initial song went viral and was sang by Jenifer, Brandy and Roz Ryan. 

ORDER The Mother of Black Hollywood on Amazon by clicking here.

B. Slade Drops New Album - Talks Music, The Church, Family and Starting Over

PHOTO COURTESY OF B.SLADE

I got a chance to sit down one-on-one with 3 time Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and producer, B. Slade (Formerly known as Tonex). He just dropped his self-titled album, "B. Slade" on October 31st. This new album embodies all of the colorful characteristics that are within B. Slade, hence the name of one of his song titles, Ketchup & Mustard." This album is truly for the young and old, the hip and chic - for anyone who loves good music and wants to have a good time. 

We also talked about B. Slade's controversial interview with gospel singer, Lexi Allen, as well as his family and starting over in his career.

To learn more about B. Slade and all that he is doing, visit, BSladenow.com. Make sure you download the new album, "B. Slade" on iTunes.

Check out my interview with B. Slade below:

Joy Rovaris and Nadji Jeter Talk About Bobbi Kristina Movie on TV One

Yesterday, I had a great time interviewing some of the cast from the upcoming TV One movie, Bobbi Kristina, premiering on TV One Sunday, October 8th at 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT. Joy Rovaris stars as Bobbi Kristina and Nadji Jeter plays Nick Gordon. The story delves into Bobbi Kristina's struggle to come to terms with her mother's sudden departure as well as the complexities of her own life. Opposite Joy Rovaris, Bobbi Kristina stars Demetria McKinney who embodies the heart, flair and essence of the legendary Whitney Houston. The film also stars Hassan Johnson as Bobby Brown, and Vivica A. Fox as Pat Houston. It is directed by child actor Ty Hodges and Executive Produced by Tracey Baker Simmons and Wanda Shelley, who were the creators of the docu-series Being Bobby Brown and The Houstons. 

If you are a Whitney Houston fan, some of you might be put off by a movie about her daughter only two years after her passing.  Krissi's father, Bobby Brown and The Whitney Houston estate even sued to try and stop this movie from being aired.  But I say give it a chance, because this film really aims to share Bobbi Kristina's story which was often overshadowed by her larger than life parents.  Although I have not seen the film, I did get a look at a 10 minute trailer which really impressed me. The acting was great and I was eager to see more. What I loved most about this cast is that they are all Whitney Houston fans and would not be a part of something that bashed Bobbi Kristina. I will definitely be watching on Sunday. 

Check out my Studio Q interview below. 

2nd Annual Breaking the Silence Awards Ceremony & Luncheon [VIDEO]

On Sunday September 24, 2017, Studio Q covered the 2nd Annual Breaking the Silence Awards Ceremony & Luncheon held at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalow in Santa Monica, CA. Breaking the Silence Awards (BTSA) a fundraiser event, which ecognizes corporations and community leaders who use their platform of influence to advocate for Sexual & Domestic Abuse Awareness. BTSA raises funds to provide supportive services to GLBT survivors of sexual & domestic abuse. BTSA, a fundraising program of the I Love Me Foundation (ILMFDN), was established in 2015 by Hollywood publicist, Robert Harrell, to utilize the industry’s resources to engage the public in supporting new research efforts and to increase awareness about sexual trauma in the GLBT community.

Honorees included: William Institute Founding Executive Director, Brad Sears, Former West Hollywood Mayor, Abbe Land, OUT Magazine Managing Editor, R. Kurt Osenlund, Celebrity DJ & Music Producer, Zeke Thomas, Pulse Orlando Nightclub Shooting Survivor, Angel Colon.

Other guests included: Benjamin Patterson (OWN 'Greenleaf'), Jay Alexander (ANTM), Laith Ashley (NBC 'Strut'), Leeza Gibbons (Entertainment Tonight), James Wright Chanel (Youtube Personality, Pattie Pie Guy), Perez Hilton (Entertainment Blogger), Tammy Townsend (Disney 'K.C. Undercover'), Laura Govan (Basketball Wives LA) and many more.

Watch the Studio Q red carpet interviews below:

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Grammy Museum Gala Honoring David Foster

Courtesy of Grammy Museum Twitter Account

On Tuesday September 19, 2017 Studio Q covered the third annual fundraising gala honoring 16-time GRAMMY® Award winner David Foster which was hosted by The GRAMMY Museum®.  The Gala presented David Foster with the Architects of Sound Award in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to music.  Proceeds from the night will benefit the Museum's newly expanded music education programs, which were integrated with those of its sister organization, the GRAMMY Foundation, earlier this year.

Courtesy of The Grammy Museum's Instagram 

Participating in the evening’s celebration was 27-time GRAMMY winner Quincy Jones, singer/songwriter and actress Katharine McPhee; R&B, pop and gospel singer, and "American Idol" season two winner Ruben Studdard; recording artist and “American Idol” star Pia Toscano; singer/songwriter Sheléa; and operatic and classical crossover tenor Fernando Varela. The fundraiser was presented by Cheryl and Haim Saban, and Brian and Adria Sheth.

Check out our Studio Q interviews from the red carpet below 

Celebrity Connected Luxury Gifting Suite Honoring The 69th Emmy Awards

Shanice Wilson and Shanica Knowles

On Saturday September 16th, I attended the the Celebrity Connected Luxury Gifting Suite honoring the Emmys at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. I always have a blast at these events interviewing celebrities and discovering awesome new brands. 

Press play and check out my Studio Q coverage below. 

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Check out some of the pictures from the event. 

Taraji P. Henson, Laverne Cox, Alfre Woodard and More Honored at the 16th Annual Heroes In The Struggle Gala Reception and Awards Presentation

Courtesy of Black Aids Institute

On Saturday September 16, 2017, Tam and I covered Heroes in the Struggle Gala Reception and Awards Presentation held at the Darryl F. Zanuck Theater at 20th Century Fox Studios in Los Angeles. Every year the Black AIDS Institute inducts a select group of individuals and organizations that have made heroic contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Black America into the Heroes in the Struggle Hall of Fame.

Courtesy of Black Aids Institute

This year's theme was "Black Men Honoring Black Women" and included Taraji P. Henson, Alfre Woodard, Laverne Cox, Vanessa Williams, Gina Belafonte, Gina Brown, and Novant Health as the Corporate Hero. Board member and event chair, Jussie Smollett served as the evening's host and celebrated R&B singer/songwriter Ledisi performed a special tribute. 

Watch our Studio Q red carpet coverage below:

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Check out some photos from my red carpet interviews

Quencie Live on @Youtube - Episode 5

In episode 5 of my Youtube Live show I talk about my interview with Jenifer Lewis and all the behind the scenes fun and mishaps that you didn't see.  Watch below! 

Follow me: @quencie on Twitter | Quencie on Facebook | @quencie on Instagram | YouTube

Quencie Live on @Youtube - Episode 4

On today's episode of Quencie Live I was joined by my Studio Q producer and bestie, Tam Anderson. We discussed the time we attended a taping of The Oprah Winfrey Show back in 2011. Thanks to Tam I even got to ask Oprah a question from the audience that was later featured on her website, oprah.com.   It was during her last season and Oprah gave everyone in the audience a free trip to the Miraval Spa in Arizona, which included air fare, car service and pajamas! Only Oprah would give a gift that included everything like that and we so love her for it. We had a great time at the show and the spa.  Watch as we give our behind the scenes account of our experience. You can also see the question I asked Oprah below. 

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Press play and watch me ask Oprah a question from the audience at Harpo which no longer exists. 

Quencie LIVE on @YouTube - Episode 3

I'm three days in to this live show and there's no stopping me now.  It's cool to talk about the behind the scenes stories of my interviews. In this episode, I talk about my interview with Bishop T.D Jakes during his Instinct Book Tour and a few red carpet events I'm covering this weekend. Subscribe to my Youtube channel and check me out live. Watch the replay below. 

Follow me: @quencie on Twitter | Quencie on Facebook | @quencie on Instagram | YouTube

Check out my Bishop Jakes interview below

Quencie LIVE on @YouTube - Episode 2

Today was day 2 of my Youtube LIVE show and this time I had my Godson, Jayden  joined me as a co-host.  I'm surprised I was able to get through everything I wanted to say. He clearly needs to have his own mic and his own show lol.  I also had some technical difficulties earlier but I didn't let that or Jayden stop me. 

In this episode, I talk about the new Apple Watches, Fantasia and knowing your worth. Watch below. 

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Quencie LIVE on @Youtube - Episode 1

Today I did my first YouTube Livestream show!  And because I actually did it instead of just talking about doing it, I claim it as a roaring success. Sure, they were only 4 people watching, one even being my best friend Tam, but hopefully as time goes on that number will grow. The reason I decided to do a daily YouTube show is because even though I have conducted hundreds of celebrity interviews in the past 5 years, I am only visible in a handful of them. This is mostly because when I re-launched Studio Q online (Studio Q premiered as a community access show in my hometown, Springfield, IL) I was depressed and overweight.  No matter who I was interviewing I never wanted to be in the same camera shot.  It was really not as bad as I felt it was but when you're as depressed as I was at the time no one could convince me otherwise.

I'm such a natural extrovert that I'm sure folks who know me can not imagine me ever wanting to hide myself, but it's true. Normally, I'm able to push through things and overcome obstacles like that, but my depression had a serious grip on me. I was just happy that I could conduct an interview. However, if I had it to do all over again, I would force myself to get in front of that camera no matter what I felt I looked like. Now I understand how important it is to put yourself out there even if you're not happy with every single thing. Imagine if Oprah waited until she was skinny before she shared all her greatness with us.  We would have missed the very best of her.  

So now I have all these great interviews that no one knows I did.  All you really see is my arm, which in all honesty could be anybody's arm.  I remember being on the red carpet and someone asked me how did I get a job at Studio Q. You know you're doing something wrong when the Q in "Studio Q" actually stands for Quencie but nobody knows it lol. I'm doing a daily livestream to change that. Hopefully, by going live Monday-Friday people will get to know who the person is behind the arm holding that microphone.  It's not easy coming out from behind the bushes, but it's time.

On "Quencie Live" (That's the name for now) I will share my interview experiences, what I learned from each interview and some great behind-the-scenes stories. I'm still not where I want to be weight wise, but I'm working on it. What's different now is that I won't let that stop me from being in the camera shot.

In this first episode, I discuss September 11 (16 years later), and my interview with Taraji P. Henson since it's her birthday today. Happy Birthday Taraji! Watch below. 

Follow me: @quencie on Twitter | Quencie on Facebook | @quencie on Instagram | YouTube

Tam and Quencie with Taraji P Henson 

Press Play on my first YouTube episode of Quencie Live! 

Karim Webb and Edward Barnett Bring Buffalo Wild Wings to Koreatown (Los Angeles)

Karim Webb and Edward Barnett (Co-Founders of PCF Restaurant Management)

PCF Restaurant Management Co-Founders, Karim Webb and Edward Barnett celebrated the opening of their newest Buffalo Wild Wings location in Koreatown (Los Angeles, CA) on Saturday, August 26, 2017. Saturday night's "soft-opening" and the Mayweather vs McGregor Fight Night event brought together some of the region's prominent business, philanthropic, entertainment and elected leaders. Over 200 guests feasted on Buffalo Wild Wings signature wings, 16 sauces, 5 seasonings, a wide variety of beers, and craft cocktails. Proceeds from the evenings event went to Korean Churches for Community Development and the Brotherhood Crusade.

As minority business owners, Webb and Barnett are excited to be expanding their footprint into a new and ethnically diverse area. "If I go into a restaurant in a community that I know is diverse and I don't see people that look like the residents in that community, I take note of that," says Webb. He and Barnett pride themselves on being responsive to unique needs of each community their units serve and their ability to engage stakeholders therein. Buffalo Wild Wings Koreatown opens to the public on Monday, August 28th at 11 am.

Check out our Studio Q interviews with the owners Karim and Edward below.  

Check out some of the great photos from the event.

LaRon and Lahmard Tate - Tate Entertainment

Nisan Stewart - Musician

"When Love Kills" TV One Los Angeles Movie Premiere [VIDEO]

Studio Q attended the Los Angeles premiere of the TV One movie, When Love Kills at the Harmony Gold Theater. Premiering on Monday, August 28th at 9pm ET, When Love Kills tells the tragic story of Falicia Blakely, a teen mom who only knows life in the fast-lane. When she becomes an exotic dancer, she attracts the attention of pimp and predator, Dino. His empty promises of a life together turn Falicia into a pawn in his dangerous games; she's forced to prove her love for him at the expense of innocent lives. 

When Love Kills stars: Niatia "Lil Mama" Kirkland (CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story), Lance Gross (House of Payne, Temptation), Tami Roman (Basketball Wives, Belle's) and Tasha Smith (For Better Or Worse, Empire) making her feature-length directorial debut.

Check out some of the photos from the red carpet below.

Studio Q correspondent, Tammi Rashonda, who filled in for Quencie, talked to some of the celebrities at the Los Angeles red carpet premiere. Watch our Studio Q interviews below:

Photo cred: Photography By Gip III