Less Than Model Behavior

I stumbled across an article that has me perplexed. It’s about rapper Foxy Brown’s arrest in Florida a few weeks ago. She says she was dragged out of the beauty supply store half dressed and harassed by the police for being black. Hmm. The owner of the store says he was closing the shop and she was taking to long in the bathroom and fought with police when they came to the store. Hmm.

You know when you hear a story and something rings false. It’s hard for me to believe that she was plucked out of the toilet with her panties down for no good reason. This is when they need a very special episode of the Foxy Brown Show (if she had one) so we could see what really went on. I also find it curious that she brought her side of the story to a church. Clever way to drum up support.

Either way she’s not coming across very well. It was only three years ago she was in hot water over throwing her cell phone at two manicurists. What could get you so pissed off that you throw a cell phone at the girl doing your nails? I guess I should ask Naomi Campbell, she’s cultivated it into an art form. She loves throwing things at people. What the hell goes on in your mind when you snap like that?

It seems like a celebrity right of passage to vent your rage on the working class. You haven’t arrived until you’ve had an unfortunate falling down moment. Look at it this way:

Russell Crowe hates it when he can’t make a long distance call, so much so, that he cracked his concierge across the head with a phone

Sharon Stone berates Germans in their homeland during auctions in which she calls them dirty little Germans

Mel Gibson relishes incoherent rants to the police about the Jews’ nasty habit of causing wars

Britney Spears wields umbrellas and flashes her bare vagina at paparazzi

Michael Richards participates in random racist remarks invoking images of lynchings

I’m not saying that celebrities can’t have an off day. I just don’t understand why they can’t contain their craziness to their own circle. Let Tom Cruise jump on Will Smith’s couch, not in front of Mid-western housewives in Oprah’s audience. Maybe it’s just the price you pay for living a public life. All I know is I’ve had it with bad behavior in Hollywood. Don’t get me wrong. It’s highly entertaining and sometimes amusing but enough with the aggression.

Why do you think celebrities are so highly volatile? Too much Botox?

Work It Girl!

All of this fashion talk surrounding the Academy Awards has made me reconsider style, especially celebrity style since this is what you see mimmicked in your daily life. Even my mom commented on how the Oscar crowd managed to clean up and sport tasteful if not too safe clothes. It’s easy to see major trends in Paris Hilton, Lindsey Lohan and Jessica Simpson. You can thank them for the straw-like extensions, skimpy dresses and sky-high stilettos that accost you in the mall every weekend. Unfortunately, it’s our lemming strategy to fashion that strips away our individuality. Style becomes more about Jennifer Anniston’s jeans than what looks good on you or what you can really afford.

But I’m talking about true style. That certain spark a woman has that isn’t linked to imitating the models on the runway. It’s the woman who can mix vintage, Gucci and a touch of downtown bohemian for a one-of-a-kind look. In the past, fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn, Diane Keaton, Elizabeth Taylor, Faye Dunaway and Madonna (before she got all English housewife on us) set the trends. Who are the new style icons? There are a bunch of budding style icons out there with Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel and Scarlett Johansen leading the pack.

Below are my picks for Hollywood’s new style icons:

Sarah Jessica Parker

The Sex and the City fashionista is a trendsetter. It may not be a trend you can follow but it’s not cookie cutter style. She’s known for her outrageous TV wardrobe, which ushered in the large flower, horse shoe necklace and the revitalization of the nametag necklace. Don’t forget the Manolo’s. I appreciate her eclectic mixture of whimsy and classic couture.

Gwen Stefani

She’s always compared to Madonna but I think she’s always been a bit funkier. Even as she ages and became a momma, she’s maintained her edgy style transferring onto Baby Kingston. She’s very Hollywood glamour from the neck up and modern clotheshorse from the neck down.

Cate Blanchett

I love her unconventional beauty that is enhanced by her fearless style. Color and texture don’t intimidate her. She has an eye on the future of fashion.

Reese Witherspoon

I know she dresses like the repressed wife of a Republican senator in the 1950s Maine but you have to admit that she has style. She’s always tasteful and appropriate. You just know she’s wearing a bra, underwear and slip. Even in her latest outings where she’s rocking a younger look, she still has a timeless quality to her.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Even when she misses the fashion target, she’s still more stylish than most of Hollywood. She reminds me of Uma Thurman and Cameron Diaz. They like to take chances and often miss the mark but how lovely to see them try.

Who is your modern style icon?

Honeys, I don’t know how I’m writing to you now. With the Academy Awards going overtime as usual, I’m barely functioning. I always feel compelled to watch the ceremony from beginning to end. This year I tacked on an 1 ½ hours of red carpet and the Barbra Walters special.

The 79th Annual Academy Awards had one thing going for them – Ellen Degeneres. She did a great job of keeping the ball rolling. Her interaction with the audience was hilarious. She has such a self-deprecating approach to comedy that allows her to make fun of herself and draw attention to others. Will Ferrell, Jack Black and John C. Reilly were phenomenal in their send up of comedians snubbed by the Academy.

I appreciated the Academy’s intro including all of the nominees. It was a great inclusive idea that gave everyone five minutes of fame. Ellen also brought home the idea that this was a true global even with nominees from all points around the globe. Kudos to the Academy! Though, with such time constraints there were way too many montages and tributes.

I was happy that there were a few surprises in the sometimes tedious four hour awards ceremony. Look at results here. I was shocked The Departed. My Latin America correspondent called me early in the day to make his picks. He called Forest Whitaker but said that because Peter O’Toole will be looked over, Alan Arkin will reap the benefits. Great call, JR. My New York correspondent, O, texted me throughout the ceremony. He thought Helen Mirren was fabulous, Celine Dion flawless and found Emily Blunt surprisingly exquisite. I thought Reese Witherspoon once again looked youthful and sexy while Cate Blanchett’s dress was out of this world. Check out the fashions here.

Here’s the Diva’s take on Hollywood’s biggest night:

Elvira Returns

James Bond’s main squeeze Eva Green was gothic couture with an enormous black hairdo that swamped her face and tiny frame. The money looked like she was overpowered by Cousin It.

Morphing Acrobats

Don’t recall the name of the group but the morphing acrobats were a weird addition to the telecast. They seemed entirely out of place but obviously the producer saw them somewhere and loved them.

Orator of the Night

Forest Whitaker reversed his fortune by delivering the best speech of the night. His words, though written down, were beautifully stated. His was a message of hope and gratitude. Everyone seemed shocked by his insightful and poignant words.

Sixty New Thirty?

Helen Mirren and Diane Keaton were the baddest chicks in the Kodak Theatre last night. Mirren was a vision in an angelic sequined gown. Keaton abandoned her Annie Hall meets eccentric neighbor look. She was radiant and svelte in head to toe black. Beautiful.

Translator Please

While I applaud the international theme of the awards, the person who paired Catherine Deneuve and Ken Watanabe missed the mark. Their thick accents were in bad need of sub-titles. I just scratched my head and smiled.

Self-Indulgent Diva Moment

As Simon loves to say on American Idol, “That’s was totally indulgent.” Of course, I’m referring to the Dreamgirls spectacular for the three nominated songs. It was as if the Academy felt bad for snubbing them for best picture so they gave them three song nominations and too much time during the ceremony. All of the Dreamgirls over sang though J.Hud was able to reign her voice in somewhat. Beyonce was going through such hysterics that her weave was plastered to her face at the end. Too much.

What were your favorite moments?

The Ballot Please

The Academy Awards are Sunday and I’m overjoyed. I can feel myself getting giddy already. The fashion, music, acceptance speeches and more. Who will be there? Who will look angelic? Who will look like a hot mess (besides Joan Rivers and her homely daughter)? Will Ellen wear a dress or perform one of her goofy dances? I can’t wait.

There are still a couple of movies I need to see. I have The Departed but can’t seem to watch it. Half Nelson is next up on my Netflix list. I’ll have to catch The Queen on DVD. With that said, I feel quite confidant about my Oscar picks but wouldn’t it be exhilarating to have a massive surprise during the ceremony.

Below are the Diva’s picks for the major categories:

Best Actress- Helen Mirren

This chick is unstoppable. I think she’ll easily pull off a win. She’s been a critical darling for years and will take home her gold man. While I was hypnotized by Dame Judy’s crazy English spinster school teacher, Dame Helen will win.

Best Actor-Forest Whitaker

Soft-spoken Forest will reign victorious though I have an faint voice in the back of my head that says Peter O’Toole could get the sympathy vote. However, I’m sticking with my gut that says Forest will win.

Best Supporting Actress- Jennifer Hudson

This budding diva will win for her boisterous Effie. This may be her only brush with Oscar as an actress. I don’t know that she has the acting chops to make this a creditable career. Dreamgirls was a matter of amazing material meeting the perfect vessel. It was magical. I’d love to eat my words but I need to see her in another role that isn’t centered around her voice or size.

Best Supporting Actor- Eddie Murphy

With the absence of Brad Pitt for Babel and Steve Carell for Little Miss Sunshine, my vote goes to Eddie Murphy. Alan Arkin could snatch it but in the end Eddie stretched himself and gave a comic yet endearing performance.

Best Picture- Babel

On a whole, this movie embodies all things Oscar. There was a great script, diverse cast and empowering message of unity and globalization- that we are all connected to one another.

Any predictions?

No more Aretha. Please.

So, I finally sat down and watched American Idol last night. I had missed the guys the night before. I don’t like to watch the auditions show, which are essentially clever marketing and ratings bait. I like when they finally eliminate the riff raff and get down to business. After watching the girls perform, I was left wondering why some of them were even there. It’s not until you put all of the singers together that you notice the disparities.

There were at least six that can go immediately. Just the idea of them hanging around another week is worrisome. I haven’t even committed their names to memory because it seems like a waste of time. It’s pretty sad when you know if the first three notes that something is wonky. And there was a lot of wonky performances last night. Judging from the footage from the previous night, the fellas had difficulty carrying a notes and selecting songs as well. I guess I’ve become spoiled by RockStar, which features seasoned performers who put on (what feels like) a concert every week. They have to pick from a small list of songs and are encouraged to rearrange music and play instruments.

There was the big haired toothpick girl who murdered “Brass in Pocket”. She didn’t have enough spark or edge to pull it off. Palazzo pant girls wailed through the Meat Loaf epic “It’s All Coming Back to Me.” It should have come back to her to never try a powerful ballad if you can’t pull it off. Did the Nelly Furtado look-a-like really sing “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing?” When they said Aerosmith, I was hoping for “Dream On.” She managed to pick the most uncool Aerosmith song EVER. It’s beautiful but overdone and cheesy.

Dog walker girl needed to sit down somewhere. She was awkward and looked a bit too Stepford for my liking. Side swept bang girl was all mood and no substance as she emoted through “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Bonnie Raitt has so many wonderful songs. Why would dark-haired girl decide to do the Celine Dion version of “All By Myself?” Rule of thumb. No Celine, Whitney or Mariah. The Holy Trinity. Add Aretha, Mary and Alicia to this growing list.

Randy Jackson put it best when he said success is be based on how well the singer knows themselves and their voice. Amen. Meanwhile, there were a few girls that distinguished themselves. LaKisha Jones was great on “And I Am Telling You” but didn’t make it sour like the two Jennifers. She could easily advance with a less challenging song that wouldn’t lead to comparisons. Melinda Doolittle was fantastic on the last of the Aretha songs but she may look too old to connect with viewers. Jordan Sparks is the baby of the group. I give her credit for picking a Tracy Chapman song that we don’t hear everyday.

Sabrina Sloan is good but she seems to be channeling the Pussycat Dolls too much. She’ll need to switch it up or the sex kitten thing will get old. I also like that she said she didn’t pick a slow song because she’s watched the show in the past and seen what advances. Finally, someone with recall. Stephanie Edwards was dynamic on “Why Don’t You Call Me Anymore?” Last but not least, I give Nicole Tranquillo credit for attempting a Chaka Kahn song. It showed great musicality and vocal range but also highlighted a poor song choice for her voice. She wasn’t quite soulful enough to pull if off. She was trying for a Joss Stone vibe but missed.

I most likely won’t blog AI again until the final 12 but had to express my disappointment.

What did you think?

Casting Call

I ran across a cute bit this morning on one of the radio stations where they were casting the Anna Nicole Smith movie. You know this is right up my alley. I love playing mini movie mogul by engaging in dream casting. So, I had to take it a step further. I cast the Hollywood blockbuster version, Lifetime movie and the independent film.

Here are my casting choices:


Hollywood Blockbuster

Angelina Jolie as Anna Nicole Smith

She could tap into her former angst and madness to channel this character. We would just need to work on getting the right shade of blonde. I was thinking Hilary Swank because of her enormous rack but I think she’s too toothy and it would be difficult to transform her into a natural looking blonde.

Brad Pitt as Larry Birkhead

I just thought it would be fun to have them in this movie together. It would be the ultimate box office feat. Jude Law could also work.

Ed Norton as Howard K. Stern

He can play creepy stalker attorney quite well.

Kathy Bates as Virgie Arthur

I could see her as the ultimate trailer park mom to a Playmate.


Lifetime

Denise Richards as Anna Nicole Smith

She’s not my favorite but she could work this role on this level.

Simon Baker as Larry Birkhead

Gorgeous and we can afford him on our TV budget.

Adrian Pasdar as Howard K. Stern

Diabolical on Heroes and perfect for this character.

Judith Light as Virgie Arthur

Plays a great lush on Ugly Betty.


Independent

Heather Graham as Anna Nicole Smith
Greg Kinnear as Larry Birkhead
Paul Giamatti as Howard K. Stern
Patricia Clarkson as Virgie Arthur

Who would you cast?

What the ...?

Ahh, holiday weekends. Hope President’s Day was as good to you as it was to me. Remember all that relaxing and cleaning I was going to do over the weekend. It actually happened. I feel ready to start fresh today. I must say the weekend was as much relaxing as it was bizarre. You know when you see a series of peculiar things one after the other only to be confronted with the ultimate in weirdness.

It started off with a cold spell on Friday. Part of my self-spa package was a few lengthy walks. It seems everyone has decided to take a page from Paris Hilton and puts clothes on their dogs when it gets cold. I’m not talkin’ designer duds either, I’m talkin’ a kid’s T-shirt cut for little pooches. Poor things, they just seemed confused. You could tell from their odd gate that they felt awkward. Now mind you it was in the 60s not the 40s or 30s. Many dogs originate from cold climates.

Next up was this eerie occurrence of hearing at least three Olivia Newton John songs this weekend while I was in the car. I could go years without hearing a song of hers on the radio but three in a weekend is strange. Made me want to watch Grease or Xanadu. Okay, not Xanadu but definitely Grease or the Let’s Get Physical video. I treated myself to a semi-marathon of The Real Housewives of Orange County. These bitches are more vapid and confused than their television counterparts. At least on Desperate Housewives it’s understood that they are fictional characters. Oddly, they have no idea how they come across. They take pride in their indulgent affluent plastic existence. Joe and Slate are amusing.

Then I was accosted by the news that Lindsey Lohan left rehab after completing a 30-day program. How the hell to you complete rehab while working everyday and going out at night? She may be the first celeb to treat rehab like a hotel. Unbelievable. Bridget Moynahan is three months pregnant with Tom Brady’s baby after breaking up three months ago. What kind of Young and the Restless plotline is this? Oh, and Ralph Fiennes joined the Mile High Club with a flight attendant on a recent flight. Alright, I kinda like this one it’s peculiar but titillating.

But boys and girls, the magical piece to my peculiar weekend was watching Britney Spears shave her head then showing up a day later wearing a cheap costume wig. Not even a racy Frederick’s of Hollywood one. Poor girl, she’s having a meltdown. I honestly feel bad for her. The Britney ride isn’t as much fun as it used to be. Now there are children and a loser father in her menagerie. I just want to know where is her family. As soon as I appeared with Matt Lauer chomping on gum, my mom would have flown in to see what was going on. Forget that, the minute I met K-Fed; momma would have flown in from Ohio to check on me.

Where are her family, agents and other hangers-on? She seems so alone and vulnerable. The even sadder side is that the paparazzi hunt her so closely that her nervous breakdown is being broadcast live. I really don’t have words for her. Sad. Tragic. Unfortunate.

What are your words for Brit Brit’s meltdown?

Thank God for President's Day

Happy Friday! If you can’t tell from the exclamation point, I’m pleased as punch that I have a long weekend. I plan on relaxing, relaxing, relaxing, going to the movies, relaxing and cleaning my house. Oh, what joy. A lot has been happening in the news these days, so I thought I’d let my brain fire off snippets of commentary.

Tim Hardaway Hates the Gays

Yea, we get it! Former HEAT player Tim Hardaway felt the need to come forward with his homophobic rant on a local radio sports show. I have to say, I wasn’t surprised by his sentiments but I was disappointed at the way he presented his opinion. Look, there’s nothing that says you have to like or understand gays and you definitely have the right to an opinion. Even if it doesn’t fit a PC mode.

However, Tim sounded like a Neanderthal by saying he hated gays. It wasn’t a matter of ‘I think it’s morally wrong or the Bible says it’s a sin’. He just blurted out that he hated gays and wouldn’t want them to be on a team with him. I thought he presented his view rather poorly. I also find it unfortunate that a black man would have such a discriminatory view. How many times didn’t people simply looked at him and say they hated him? You don’t have to raise the rainbow flag or march in a parade but acknowledge that as a minority no type of discrimination is acceptable.

Will he have to go to rehab for his ignorance?

Howard K. Stern is the New King of All Media

This sick bastard has managed to turn the death of the women he supposedly loved into a media circus. Instead of gathering his makeshift family and mourning his lost. He allowed cameras into the house as he was reunited with his baby. In a gross display of publicity, he clutched the baby and sobbed, “Your mother’s not coming home.” It is in poor taste for him to allow caneras in. Now we know who was responsibile for selling pictures of Anna's son soon after his death. Disgusting. Anna Nicole is another Elvis. Surrounded by people who had their own agenda instead of looking out for her.

Anna’s untimely death is also bringing out her trashy family and other hangers on. Do we really care what the nanny says? Or the bodyguard? Or her opportunistic mother? This is the ultimate train wreck that you can’t divert your eyes from.

What’s on your mind today?

IT

IT. Who has IT? What is IT? These are all good questions asked by USA Today. With the looming release of Factory Girl and the constant media interest in its star Sienna Miller, the question of what makes an IT girl is posed. What is that innate quality that encapsulates an IT girl? Famous IT girls of the past include Marilyn Monroe, Twiggy, Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy.

IT girls must have some kind of mystique. The kind that causes men to fall in love and women try to mimic. The quality that goes beyond shiny hair, a toned body or the perfect smile. It’s the glint in their eyes, bounce in their step or the way they fashion a scarf. They must be of the moment. Meaning if Armenia is the hot destination, she probably has a connection to it. She has a hot movie out or she was a pioneer in (insert celebrity hobby here). Knitting, poker, Pilates or pottery. Take your choice.

Publicity is another tool of savvy IT girls. Not all IT girls employ this but Paris Hilton has taken it to another level. She knows what angle is her finest, what designer to promote, what club to frequent and what celebrity to be BFF with. Certain IT girls purposely know how to court the media and figure that good or negative press is still press. Marketing is key for some divas. They know how they want to be seen and have a dream team that makes sure it happens.

Miller is one of several women who embody the phrase. I imagine her to be a lot like her character in Alfie. Beguiling on the surface with an underlying frenetic energy that runs out of control and causes her to go off about Pittsburgh while she’s in Pittsburgh.

Here are a few more IT girls:

Scarlett Johannsen

Love her or hate her, this girl has something. Not necessarily perfect acting chops but she’s alluring and somewhat mysterious. She manages to be out there without really being out there as far as her personal life, which is unusual for young Hollywood.

Jessica Biel

Homegirl and her behind have sprung out of nowhere. Her track record in movies has been mediocre though she seems to be trying to break out of that. Basically she was a low rent Katie Holmes that had a turnaround when she posed for a gentleman’s magazine. Some people have a whirlwind public romance to gain fame while others simply tart it up a bit.

Jessica Alba

This stunner better drop it like it’s hot soon or the media may lose their interest in her. She has the potential but hasn’t had that real breakthrough role that takes her to the next level. It’s out there.

Jennifer Hudson

The singing sensation has had her world turned upside down over. She went from an American Idol reject to superstar in one movie. Fantastic. Hopefully, she can turn her IT girl status into a real career.

Who else has IT girl status?

Love Love Love

Happy Valentine’s Day, dear hearts. Today is the day of LOVE and hopefully a little nookie for many of you. With amor in the air, it’s natural to think of all things romantic. The New York Daily News came up with a list of the 100 best love songs. Naturally, I had some additions to the list. Not for nothing but My Girl isn’t the best love song. It’s cute but not #1. There was tough criteria, however. All songs had to be around at least a decade and considered a top 20 hit of that particular year, which would explain all of the golden oldies from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

Face it. There aren’t too many MTV generation artists putting out love songs. Not to be confused with sex songs. R. Kelly can write a sex song but comes up short in the romance department. Where are the great balladeers of today? They’ve traded in their velvet voices to sing hooks for hip hop artists.

After looking at the NY Daily News list, here are a few songs that should be added:

A Song For You- Donny Hathaway

Are you kidding? This may be the best love song ever. Perfect 70s soul. Emotional, loving and touching. The perfect song.

Love Song-The Cure

I just recently got into this song. What a lovely love song. I always liked the Cure for their lead singer’s teased hair and smeared lipstick but gained much respect for this simple ditty.

So Amazing- Luther Vandross

Any song by Luther could make this list but this song is truly beautiful. I’m also a fan of If This World Were Mine. His passing was a great loss for R & B music.

This Will Be- Natalie Cole

Love this song. It’s the perfect up-tempo love song.

Look What You’ve Done to Me- Boz Scaggs

Boy, I’m showing my penchant for cheesy 70s/80s music. This song has the perfect boozy bar sound. Like it’s last call in you favorite hangout and you’re dancing the last dance with that cute guy who has been eyeing you all night. Wow. That was a vivid picture.

Have You Ever Been in Love- Celine Dion

I can’t believe I put a Celine song on this list but this song is splendid vocally. Her voice opens up in a stunning way and the words are poetic.

Take My Breath Away- Berlin

What can I say? I’m a child of the 80s. Berlin’s rendition is okay and Jessica Simpson’s was atrocious. I’m waiting for the definitive versions but the words and sentiment are what I respond to. Maybe Mary J. could take it for a ride.

What would you put on the list?

Ramona's Momma Rocks!

This past weekend was dedicated to relaxing and recouping my energy. Work has been a bitch lately. As part of my self-imposed spa time, I watched SherryBaby. Not exactly light fare but it was gripping. I’ve always been a Maggie Gyllenhaal fan, which only intensified when I saw Secretary. I stand by my statement that t is a great love story. It also helps that Gyllenhaal is involved with Peter Sarsgaard. He’s so amazingly diverse as an actor. I can hardly stand it. Did you see him on Saturday Night Live? Hilarious.

SherryBaby tells the story of former junkie and thief Sherry Swanson (Gyllenhaal). The film starts as Sherry leaves prison and tries to settle into life on the outside and getting to know her little girl who as been living with her brother Bobby (Brad William Henke) and his wife Marcia (Kate Burton). The scenes between Sherry and her family are intense. Watching her try to build a relationship with her daughter are painful. It’s a tough movie to watch at times since you really want her to succeed. Her daily challenges must be similar to what millions of people confront a day. Lack of education. Lack of support and resources. Lack of compassion.

The movie is stark often to the point of feeling like a documentary similar to the A&E program Intervention. Gyllenhaal is a wonder in the role. She didn’t have to gain weight or make herself unattractive to play this woman. Her struggle and past is conveyed through her hair, clothes and body language. The movie is masterful in showing her current life while revealing and alluding to her past problems. It’s definitely worth watching.

Gyllenhaal has always been one of my favorite odd beat actors. You know the actors that you can’t really put in a category. They walk that fine line between indie flicks and big studio productions. Here are a few more actors that meet MaggieBaby in style and technique:

Parker Posey

The queen of independent films is always quirky and unforgettable. She’s pure sunshine in every role. She is exceptional in Party Girl, Personal Velocity and Josie and the Pussycats.

William H. Macy

Here’s a serious actor who doesn’t take himself so seriously. I love his character work in big films and little gems. He’s the best in Boogie Nights.

Giovanni Ribisi

Little guy, big talent. He’s turned himself into quite the character actor. Loved him in The Other Sister and SubUrbia.

Maria Bello

She takes you to those scary dark places inside people. Loved her in The Cooler and History of Violence. Very free and raw as an actor.

What other actors should be added to this list?

Grammy's Amaze

I couldn’t believe I actually made it through the Grammy’s last night without checking my watch or switching channels. That’s always a good indicator of how entertaining a program is. I was thoroughly pleased with the caliber of performers as well as the nominees and the winners. Gnarls Barkley, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Police were on fire.

The Dixie Chicks had a big night. While some of their wins were a surprise, I was happy to see the talented women, who now don’t have a genre and lost much of their fan base, win major honors. It was a big F-you to the people who turned their backs on them and thought pulling them off radio would kill their careers. I’ve been a fan of the Chicks since their second album and have always enjoyed the vibe and message of their music. I’m not big on too much country but I love the Chicks.

For a list of winners look here. I consulted with my New York correspondent O who weighed in on his highlights throughout the ceremony. Here’s my picks for the best moments of the night:

Most Deserved Win

Mary J. Blige has turned into one of the finest vocalist of the decade. There is always a raw emotion in her interpretation of a song. Something from which the American Idol wannabes can learn. She can reduce you to tears in one note. I first heard Mary J. in college. As soon as Real Love came out, me and my girlfriends rushed to buy the CD. She was fresh, brash, emotional and managed to bring an R & B vibe to a hip hop track.. She was the first to do that.

Best Worst Donald Trump Moment

Don Henley had a peculiar gray fur-like material on his head. It looked like a front comb over and way too much like The Donald for my liking. What the hell was that?

Best Performance

Without a doubt itty bitty Christina Aguilera packed an awesome punch with her rendition of It’s a Man’s World. She was soulful and powerful in her tribute to James Brown. It takes a huge set of balls to attempt that song especially as a woman. She didn’t even over sing, which is a challenge for her at times. She even channeled the Godfather of Soul at the end when she uttered one of his unintelligible phrases. The ones that used to have scratching your head

Tearful Moment

I couldn’t help but get choked up when they brought out James Brown’s cape. It was touching to me. I’m sure his band misses him. I know I will.

Purest Performance

The electric trio of performances by Corinne Bailey Rae, John Legend and John Mayer brought different elements of R & B, a genre that I think has suffered over the last years. Rae is a bright pure light in voice and vision. John Legend has odd voice quirks but knows his way around a piano and a ballad. John Mayer, though I still find him a bit creepy, has turned into a fine bluesman and songwriter. The musicality of these artists is inspiring and points toward a long-standing career.

Hottest Rocker of 40

Anthony Keidis is not only in fine voice, he has managed to keep his rock star sexuality in tune as well. I love him when he’s a brunette and even more when he lets his hair grow. Meow!

Awkward Fan Moment

It was a clever gimmick to have an aspiring singer have a Grammy moment with Justin Timberlake. The girl that won was great but the segment was too long with her getting washed out and overpowered by JT and T.I.

Best Dress

Christina Aguilera pulled it off again in this category. Her dress and makeup were exquisite. I’m still trying to figure out her hair. It was too platinum, if that’s possible. I’ve long suspected that she has alopecia, meaning she’s losing her hair or may have lost it all. However, she blazed the trail for all the songbirds last night. Jennifer Hudson looked smoking in her dress. She gave new meaning to brick house and inspired a legion of girls over a size 8 to dream of designer gowns. The girls looked glamorous except Mandy Moore who must have stubmbled upon her grandmother's house coat and decided to go in a different direction.

What was your favorite Grammy moment?

RIP

I feel weird posting this since I had just talked about her today, which makes it even more timely. Anna Nicole Smith is dead. Read here. I could tell from her last TV appearances that she was not in a good place but I'm shocked. This has been a turbulent period for her and her family. I'm stunned. Don't know what to say. May her daughter know more peace in this world than her mother and brother did.

If you haven't read my previous blog, do so and tell me what you learned from ANS.

Poor Little Lost Anna

I’ve just had a moment of clarity. I’ve always known this to be true about myself but it was magnified today. As I was reading an article about Anna Nicole Smith being legally forced to submit her baby for a paternity test, I was overjoyed. Now why would I be happy when she’s not related to me and I really am indifferent to her? It’s like subconsciously I care about her and the other celebrities I complain about.

Then it dawned on me. Watching these people bungle their way through life makes them human and therefore unites us in the fact that life is a bear. I borrow this expression from my dad who loves to say that life is a bear that will wrestle you to the ground. My dad is prone to such classic saying as “Stop that lolly gagging and tooty fruiting” (when he wants you to be serious) and “I’m gone like a turkey through the corn” ( another way to say goodbye). He’s a colorful character and he couldn’t be more right with the bear reference. Celebrity’s conflicts and drama don’t make me feel sorry for them or even better about myself. It just makes me feel normal.

Hollywood was designed to sell us an illusion. The illusion of perfection. This myth is still a truth for legions of followers who worship at the alter of false gods. The fantasy tells us that happiness comes from wealth, youth and good looks. And it works. I get a kick out of deciphering pop culture and celebrity to see what it means for the everyday person.

In other words, you can learn a lot. Here’s what I learned from Anna Nicole Smith:

Sit and Look Pretty

I’m usually not an advocate for this school of thought but in extreme cases where someone is unable to articulate clearly or has a coherent thought, it’s a must. Poor Anna Nicole has been literally propped up while hopped up on some sort of strong medication in her latest TV appearaances. She can barely keep her eyes open and speaks with a thick tough. Riveting yet sad. This is the case of someone who shouldn’t be doing any type of public speaking until she can get her head together.

Beware of the Stalker

For years, I’ve been wondering what her lawyer Howard K. Stern actually did. He barely seemed like legal counsel in her E! reality show but appeared to be a hanger-on with a crush. He’s managed to ingratiate himself to the former Playmate. Now he’s claiming to be her lover and father to her infant daughter. Maybe it’s true but I have my doubts.

It Will Come Out in the Wash

She claims Howard is the father of her child and has refused a paternity test but now she must submit to one. The moment of truth is around the corner. You can lie about many things but the father of your child isn’t one of them. Especially when we’re talking lawyers and paternity tests. If you want to lie about something let it be your age or hair color. Not the father of your child because if he’s not the father you look like a slut or a lier. Haven’t we learned anything from those poor girls on Maury Povich who don’t know who is the father of their child.

What have you learned from Anna Nicole?

Jokeritis Alert

Bare with me people. If you noticed that I don’t post pictures, it’s because I’m technologically challenged. I’m working on that but meanwhile I’ve linked you to this hideous picture of Suzanne Sommers. Click on the title to see. You remember the leggy blonde from Three’s Company. She’s almost unrecognizable in this picture.

I was appalled to see that she has fallen victim to that dangerous and misguided Hollywood trend of plastic surgery overkill. She has Jokeritis. Those plump overfilled lips and perma-smile give it away. Years from now there will be a psychological study that people who overindulge in plastic surgery all have something in common besides low self-esteem and image issues. There has to be a reason why some women are willing to put foreign entities and substances in their bodies. They don’t know when to stop. It’s frightening. They actually look in the mirror and think they look fabulous. Scary.

I’m even more upset at the plastic surgeons who prey on these fragile souls. I realize it’s a lucrative profession but they are supposed to have ethics. Where are the ethics behind Michael Jackson’s face? Someone should have said no. Television shows make plastic surgery look easy but it’s traumatic and dangerous. There are even centers that pride themselves on being economical. I can tell you there are certain things you should spend money on-Heinz ketchup, a good hair weave and a quality plastic surgeon.

Suzanne isn’t the only celebrity suffering from Jokeritis. Joan Rivers, Barry Manilow, Ivana Trump and Meg Ryan have spent too much time searching for the Fountain of Youth. It’s time to realize that the jig is up and we all get old. Deal with it.

Who do you think has Jokeritis?

Team Lachey All the Way

I may actually have to read the upcoming Elle magazine article in which Jessica Simpson dishes about Nick. The radio stations were all over it this morning. It seems the catalyst for ending her marriage was the movie The Notebook. She had been unsatisfied in her marriage and while watching this movie she realized that it wasn’t working with Nick. She goes onto say that she was devastated after seeing him with another woman after the break up.

I understand her heartbreak but didn’t she end the marriage? Didn’t she walk away? I may be indifferent to this situation but I’m surprised she cared that much. If you watched the show and unfortunately I did, it was apparent that she was too young and naïve for marriage. Nick doted on her and seemed to tolerate her ditzy manner but even he seemed dumbfounded by their relationship. There was love there but you could tell it wasn’t going to last. It was too public an affair to survive.

Which brings me back to The Notebook. It’s a splendid movie full of romance and emotion. Extreme chemistry. It also feeds the notion of a soul mate. That one person out there who completes you. I feel bad if she ended her marriage because she thought Nick wasn’t her soul mate. I’m not convinced that one soul mate exists in a lifetime. I think this is a romantic idea perpetuated in pop culture to sell books, movies, cards, candy, Valentine’s Day and HOPE. The hope that no matter how annoying you may be, there is one person as equally annoying out there for you.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a romantic but life as taught me a few things. There is no such thing as one person that fulfills all your needs. First, you need to be happy and fulfilled on your own. You have to be your own soul mate. I also think you can find your soul mates in different areas of your life meaning hobbies, interests or even career. Soul mates perpetuate the stereotype of perfection, which doesn’t exist. I can find a kindred spirit in pop culture or movies. I think the point is to find someone who you have a lot in common with but also allows you to grow in other underdeveloped parts of your self.

Look at it this way. How many times have celebrities declared that they found their soul mate only to separate a few months or years later? An authentic relationship is based on the principle that no one is perfect. There will be arguments and disagreements. There will be alternating periods of hot amazing sex followed by platonic companionship. There must be respect for the individual and for the couple. Relationships are a work in progress with ever-changing boundaries but they’re not easy.

I hope Jessica learns to move forward and live a private life that is hers alone and not MTV’s. Moving onto John Mayer may be a mistake since he's a serious musician whose profile continues to rise. Also, I've often though that he may be one of these intense guys that gets really into you and watches you while you sleep. Slightly creepy.

Do you believe in soul mates?

Purple Reign

I’m not really into football or the Super Bowl but I like to watch the half time show. This year it was Prince so you know I had to watch it. I’ve been a fan of his royal highness (thanks to my big sis) since the days when he wore the huge fro. I was looking forward to watching his badass work the stage and I wasn’t disappointed.

Imagine the scene. I was attending the going away party for my good friend JR who has decided to finish his novel in Nicaragua with the monkeys in the jungle. We are in his posh but cozy Coral Gables cottage. I’m in a sea of gorgeous luxurious gay men and a few elegant women. We all pile into the room for the big purple spectacular.

It starts and Prince is strutting his stuff sporting a teal suit, orange flowy blouse and high heel boots to match the suit. Impeccable and totally Prince. He’s the only straight man who could get away with this outfit. The purple rain was flowing in Miami yet he didn’t seem to get wet and didn’t slip on his heels. I guess years of working the runway/stage keep you fierce like that. I don’t think he’s aged one bit since 1985 either. A few in my group suspected surgical intervention. His coif was gloriously covered with a black scarf ala Aunt Jemina.

Here’s the conversation:

JBT: Look at the hairdress. It’s soooo traditional.

Gay man #1: Honey. If that’s traditional, why isn’t she wearing it? (Pointing to the Black girl seated next to him.)

[Laughter erupts in the room]

Gay man # 1:Yes, in honor of Black History Month, he’s wearing the traditional hairdress.

Gay man #2:Yes the traditional du-rag.

[More laughter and inappropriate jokes]

I loved it. You haven’t watched Super Bowl until you watched it with the gays. So, in honor of Prince ,who turned the mutha out, what his your favorite Prince moment?

Purple Rain

This movie and soundtrack rocked. I still have the album in my parent’s basement along with the soundtracks to Grease and Footloose. I told you I’m a child of the 80s. Looking at the movie today it’s a bit embarrassing but still rocking. The music is infectious and original. The acting is a little stilted but we forgive him.

Assless pants

I’ll never forget watching the MTV Video Awards (Can’t remember what year. Help me out if you know.) with my dad when he realized that Prince had cut outs on his ass. Classic Prince.

Slow Jams

No one does a slow song like Prince. We’re talking good old-fashioned sex music or music to move you in that direction. ‘Do Me Baby’ and ‘International Lover’ are my favorites.

What’s your favorite Prince moment?

I Feel Beligerant Today

I was reading USA Today this morning when I was accosted by another item about Mrs. Tom Cruise. It seems she has an article and photo spread in the upcoming issue of Harper’s Bazzar. Unfortunately from the highlights that have been released, she says nothing remotely interesting or provocative. Instead she relentlessly reiterates the fact that she’s happy. Happy with her husband. Happy with her children. Happy with her career (career?).

We get it you live in complete bliss. Is she trying to convince us or herself? Her life has been turned upside down by the media speculation and skeptical people like myself. How happy can you be when people speculate that your newborn baby doesn’t really exist or that your husband is gay or crazy? It’s not that I don’t want to see crazy, I mean Mr. Top Gun happy. See I just did it again.

Even her smile has changed? Instead of the innocent/shy smile, she has this perma-smile. I just want them to stop this Scientology-induced euphoria and join the rest of us. People can’t relate to them anymore, which spells big problems for them in their careers and eventually personal life because if TC is anything it’s career-driven and image conscious. I hate myself, okay hate is a strong word, but I’m seriously getting on my own nerves with my intolerance of TomKat. I wish they’d just go sit down somewhere. JLo and Jessica Simpson have done it.

Here’s a list of other celebs that could use a little publicity detox:

Lindsey Lohan

You knew little red would be on this list. Who goes into rehab but immediately leaves everyday for work? How do you heal?

Beyonce

That’s a hardworking girl and I’m not knocking her hustle but we need a hiatus. After the Academy Awards, she needs to take an extended vacation. She can cut another album, count her money or marry JayZ. It doesn’t matter, as long as she does it in private.

Britany Spears

It’s time for hot momma to pack it up and get her life together. She might want to contemplate wearing underwear and shoes in gas station bathrooms as well. Just a thought.

Kevin Federline

The jig is up. Your days of being a kept man are over. Take the money and run. I’m almost embarrassed the way he’s being used for his 15 minutes of fame. There is no limit to what people will do for money or what they perceive to be fame.

Who else could use a time out?

365 Days A Year

In honor of Black History Month and the legends that came before me, I’m looking at the contributions of black folks to pop culture. Everyone knows (or at least thinks) that we’re funny, fast and rhythmic. I’ll go with that, though you’ve never seen my mother do the Electric Slide. It ain’t pretty. Oddly enough for a group of people that continues to struggle, we have an amazing ability to make anything our own. We’ve put our charismatic touch on music, movies and television and watched in as it was absorbed into other cultures.

Here’s a list of movies that sum up the African-American experience through cinema. The movies are diverse and reflect the multi-dimensional nature of black folks. If you haven’t seen them, add them to your Netflix list.

Glory (1989)

What a powerful story. I haven’t seen it in years and I’m due for a refresher. It tells a story I had never thought about. Black troops in the Civil War. Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington are phenomenal.

Something New (2006)

I enjoyed this light comedy about a successful black woman coming to grips with dating a white man. If you didn’t know anything about black woman and our hair, you will after this movie.

School Daze (1988)

I had to have a Spike Lee movie on this list but which one. I like this movie because it explores the conflict between light skin and dark skin blacks. People might not think this would be an issue but it is in many cultures actually. Lee’s earlier flicks speak to me. I’m especially fond of Summer of Sam, an overlooked movie, which introduced me to Adrien Brody. Do the Right Thing, Jungle Fever and Malcolm X are all important films.

Any Blaxploitation film

You cannot leave this earth without seeing a genuine blaxploitation film. This was an innovative genre popular in the late 60s and 70s. Black culture of this time made pimp and hoe-lifestyles glamorous and fascinating, a trend that continues today in pop culture. I suggest Blacula, Shaft, Super Fly, Sweet Sweetback’s Badass Song and Foxy Brown.

Car Wash(1976)

This has an integrated cast but would probably be considered an urban picture. It still holds up today as a hilarious comedy about a day in the life of the assorted characters working in an L.A. car wash. Too funny. Great soundtrack and theme song.

Did I miss a movie? What movie gave you an unforgettable glimpse into black culture?