Queendom

NO MORE N***AS!!!!

2010-08-14T23:27:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna address everyone, one at a time:

BLACK PEOPLE:
STOP teaching people who aren't black to call black people niggas. #1 - Not all black people are okay with that. #2 - Black people SHOULDN'T be okay with that. That word was designed to demean and oppress and no matter how many times "we" use it with a "positive" intent, we create a stigma of a ourselves as property of the USA that will never be anything greater than that. And now we're teaching other races that it's okay? That's what they should call us? Really? Cuz I was just called a nigger at a bar by a white man who has many black friends (as was stated in his apology) and "really, you all use that word anyway so why are you giving me a hard time? You know what I meant." What did he mean exactly? Did he mean slave, did he mean I was inferior, did he mean I was not a full citizen of this country even in the 21st century with a black president? Or would you have me believe that he really meant it as "hey sister!" Bullshit. Wake up black people, cuz we just got got!!

NON - BLACK PEOPLE:
Stop calling black people niggas, unless it is your intent to infuriate said black person(s). Regardless of what some of your black friends may say, it's not okay, it's not cool ESPECIALLY if you just met the person. And if you do call someone a nigga and they don't respond kindly, don't proceed to tell that black person about the word nigga because you will never know what it feels like to be called that word or what it means to be black in America. If you find yourself in that situation, just shut the hell up, apologize, and walk away and call your black friends who told you that word was okay and tell them the fuck off.

D. Scott (on a rampage)

Identity

2010-07-20T21:48:00.000-07:00

Okay so on this artist development journey, which really, if I stop kidding myself is personal development and discovery, I'm returning full circle to lessons we learn early on, but never really know how to apply like: be yourself.

No, really. Be yourself.

You'll know you're really being yourself, when not even your family (yes, the F word) can sway you. If you can within yourself say to the world including your uptight Grammy "F*ck you! (the other F word) I'm gonna be me and no I'm not sorry if that makes you uncomfortable or you don't like it or you don't approve. Too bad, DEAL WITH IT! Oh, and I still love you."- well if you can find that in you, and not feel guilty that you found that in you, then you're one step closer to self.

There's more to come. As I walk it, I'll report live from my life.

- D. Scott

A Few Good Men & Women

2010-07-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all,
I'm on the hunt for some solid players/singers for my band. I have some exciting things on the horizon, and it's time to get the folks together who are gonna ride with me. So, if you are a badass mother-shut-yo-mouth sista or brotha and you think you got what I need, then bring it! I'm auditioning e'erythang: drums, bass, guitar, keys, and BG singers. Show me whatcha workin' with!

Write me at danielle(at)dscottandthefamily.com with your name, phone number, and instrument(s) to set up a meeting/audition.

I look forward to meeting y'all and hearing your talent!

- D. Scott

In Memoriam

2010-06-26T17:03:00.000-07:00

“In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort. In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream. And in a world filled with distrust, we must still dare to believe.”

"I'm gonna make a change for once in my life
It's gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right.
As I turn up the collar on my favorite winter coat, this wind is blowin my mind
See the kids on the street without enough to eat
Who am I to be blind pretending not to see their needs
A summer's disregard
A broken bottle top
And a one man's soul
They follow each other on the wind ya know
Cuz they got no where to go
That's why I want ya to know
I'm starting with the man in the mirror
I'm asking him to change his ways
And no message could've been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place take a look at yourself and make a change."

- Michael Jackson, Quote and "Man in the Mirror"

Remembering the man who inspired me in music. Oh, and for some MJ trivia: Did you know he is in the Guinness Book of World Records for most charitable donations from a celebrity? On a weekend when so many new iPhones were sold (and don't get me wrong, the iPhone 4 is quite fabulous), it just makes you think a little... about how fortunate you are and how you can be a blessing to someone else - even if it is in the smallest of ways, it makes affects others in a big way. So, make that change, y'all.

- D. Scott

U.N.I.T.Y

2010-06-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Instinct leads me to another flow
Every time I hear a brother call a girl a bitch or a ho
Tryin' to make a sistah feel low
You know all of that gots to go
Now everybody knows there's exceptions to this rule
Now don't be gettin' mad, when we playin' it's cool
But don't you be callin' me out my name
I bring wrath to those that disrespect me like a dame

- Queen Latifah, U.N.I.T.Y.

Just felt like recognizing a queen AND take it back to the old school for a minute. Ah, such a classic song.
- D. Scott

Phenomenal Woman

2010-06-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
- Maya Angelou, Phenomenal Woman

Speaking of phenomenal women*, a wonderful lady I know who has been trying to change the world through music is auditioning for a show on the upcoming Oprah Winfrey Network. Her name is Renee Ochoa and she is the CEO and founder of an artist development company named I've Got Entertainment. How do I know she's so phenomenal? She has helped develop me and my band. Her influence has had a huge impact on my music and my life in general. I think the world would benefit from seeing how this woman works towards her mission of being the change in the world through herself, her daughter, and music.

Check out her audition by clicking here and vote for her. You can vote as many times as you like - if you like it a lot, vote a lot!

- D. Scott
---
*Know anymore phenomenal women? Hit me up with their info at danielle@dscottandthefamily.com

Your Truth

2010-06-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.

-Steve Jobs

I knew Mr. Jobs was a mastermind, but who knew he was so deep?! I guess he showed me a thing or two. Anyway... being true to self is the path to freedom. Freedom is what we all strive for - freedom to be who we are and express that. Knowing that, how interesting is it that we all still struggle with living on the other side of freedom to feel some sort of cheapened form of acceptance never realizing how much more fulfilling self-acceptance is...

- D. Scott

Women & Men In a Nutshell

2010-05-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

Woman was taken out of man; not out of his head to top him, nor out of his feet to be trampled underfoot; but out of his side to be equal to him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be loved.

- Source Unknown*

I think that about sums it up. Queens and Kings - we go hand in hand, complimenting each other with honor, equality and most of all love (ideally).

- D. Scott
---
*If anyone has any idea where the quote comes from, please let me know in the comments.

I'm Every Woman

2010-05-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

I ain't braggin'!
Cuz I'm the one!
Just ask me!
Oo, it shall be done!
Don't bother
To compare!
I GOT IT!!!
I'm every woman...

- Chaka Khan/Whitney Houston, I'm Every Woman (by Ashford & Simpson)

I'm feelin' my power today and I hope every woman out there can feel hers, too. I hope everyone can remind each other of their worth and importance today (male and female).

- D. Scott

Ain't I a Woman?

2010-05-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

Then that little man in black there, he says women can't have as much rights as men, 'cause Christ wasn't a woman! Where did your Christ come from? Where did your Christ come from? From God and a woman! Man had nothing to do with Him.

If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back , and get it right side up again! And now they is asking to do it, the men better let them.

- Sojourner Truth, "Ain't I A Woman"

Queens of the world, don't forget your power!
- D. Scott

Keep ya head up...

2010-05-24T18:31:00.001-07:00

And since we all came from a woman
Got our name from a woman and our game from a woman

I wonder why we take from our women
Why we hate our women
Do we hate our women

I think it's tine to kill for our women
Tine to heal our women
Be real to our women

- 2pac, "Keep Ya Head Up"

And it still holds true.

-D. Scott

D's Random Musings #5

2010-01-25T17:55:00.000-08:00

Those of you who follow my D. Scott Facebook page already know what my beef is today, but I have to say it again and expound:

What happened to "Hello. How are you?"

My facebook page used to be a place where friends, near and far, stopped by to say hi and touch base if it's been a while. My wall was filled with the love, fun, laughter, and well wishes of REAL PEOPLE. Now, my facebook wall is filled with tag-you're-it-pillow-fight-mafia-war-smiley-face-question-of-the-day-blessings, hearts, and other useless foolishness. What's worse is that most of the people that post that crap are friends of friends of friends of friends you may have met once upon a time eight years ago which makes it EXTRA useless.

I know what you're thinking: "Just delete it and stop your complaining."

I will delete it, it's just that... well... the first time this little app posted on my wall, I thought, "OK. I'm not quite sure how I know this person, but that was nice." I was not annoyed. Then... well, there has just been a daily increase of app vomit on my wall which has now driven me to not only be extremely annoyed, but to also write a blog about it! Facebook tip people: it is optional to post the app to 12-20 people's wall. Resist! You don't have to do it! Hit "skip" for crying out loud! You'll still get the results to the IQ test or the "Am I a Good Lover" quiz you just took!

(breath D, breathe)

Anyway, I write all this to say, I don't need a virtual hug/kiss/smile/gunshot wound or digital money.* I would like you, my facebook friends and fans, when you think of me, to simply say hi. Is that to much to ask?

-D. Scott
---
*Real money is always appreciated and welcomed

Haiti - Get a Blessing, Give a Blessing

2010-01-19T16:35:00.000-08:00

Haiti's plight has been on every channel and news website. At every image, my heart is wrenched, brows furrowed in sadness. Today, a news story reminded my friends and I that admist all that is happening, there is an innumerable amount children who are now without parents, family or care. Before today, I could barely wrap my head around the magnitude of destruction that had occurred. Your eyes are held captive by footage of the dead/dying, the mourning, the wounded, the fallen buildings, but to see a sea of young children sitting, waiting to be found, to be fed, for their parents to somehow be resurrected...

The ladies of I've Got Entertainment and I always discussed that if we sold something - a CD, a T-Shirt, etc. - then we were in a position to give something. So today, I started just that. I took the chorus of "Invisible" and put in on a few long sleeve tees on zazzle.com 10% of the profits will go towards Save The Children's efforts in Haiti. You can view the tees in the widget below* and click on it to enter the store. It is a humble attempt to help, but it my heartfelt effort nonetheless. Even if you don't purchase a tee from me, I do hope that in some way that you give to those in need in Haiti - whether it is a prayer or a dollar.

- D. Scott
---
*If you can't view the widget click here.

MLK Day - Mall Extravaganza

2010-01-18T17:38:00.000-08:00

The mall was bustling at the seams today, parking lot overrun with every mode of transportation from coupe to minivan to public transit. Looking out at the traffic of people anxious to complete their shopping errands, I wondered what has become of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Is it simply another day off, part of the coveted "long weekend" destined to be filled with extra errands, cleaning, and of course shopping? Has it lost it's usefulness? After all, we have our first black president - problem solved, racism over. Civil rights? Check.

Yet, there are still those who live underground, harboring their secret selves or living in seperate America's - Black America, Gay America, "fill-in-the-blank" America - where they create a sense of belonging and somehow, ironically, it is still their country, land that they love. Stretch your gaze across the seas and there are yet many more imbalances much more tragic than ours from child brides to the devastation that just rocked Haiti.

Today, I remember Dr. King and his love for all. I put that love in a prayer. I remember someone else's dream as my own and pass it on.

- D. Scott
---
*If you can't see the video, click here.

Technical Difficulties

2010-01-13T03:36:00.000-08:00

Hey Queens!
Just wanted to let you know I'm transitioning to a new computer and until everything is finalized, blogging and vid journals will be a little scarce. I hope to be back up and running in the next couple of weeks.
Hope you all are having a great New Year so far! I'll be back as often as possible to share, vent, celebrate, promote, etc.

- D. Scott

New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-30T20:14:00.000-08:00

My roommate asked the dreaded question of this time of year: "What's your resolution for the new year?"

To tell the truth, I haven't thought that much about it, in terms of the never-to-be-looked-at-again resolution lists that millions of people generate for themselves. I am looking forward to the new year, it is unworn, unopened, unused, untouched gleaming with promise.

According to the news, the top ten new year's resolutions are (in no particular order):

• Lose Weight
• Get Fit*
• Quit Smoking
• Drink Less
• Take a Trip
• Reduce Stress
• Get Out of Debt
• Save money
• Go Back to School/Get a Better Job
• Spend More Time with Family

As for me, I resolve to shine this year. I promise myself that I will be a light to myself and to share my light with others. I will burn bright with determination, radiate beyond the confines of conventional thinking and pushing the envelope. I promise to feed my flame daily with inspiration and knowledge. It may seem pretty lofty or even abstract, but I know what I mean - after all, my resolution is for me...

Sooooo, what's your resolution?

- D. Scott
----
*For the life of me, I don't know why these are listed as separate goals... sounds a little redundant to me, like they didn't have enough to make a top 10 list so to even things out they said "get fit" and "lose weight" mean different things. Who are they kidding, really...

Revive Da Live

2009-12-29T18:10:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time when I was in Boston, I met this chick who had a vision to reinvent the live show and return hip-hop to its live music influences particularly jazz. The woman's name is Meghan Stabile (pronounced "stah-bee-lay" not "stable") and she called the show Revive Da Live (which you probably guessed from today's blog title).

Well, Meghan now puts on the Revive Da Live events in NYC and has had such special guests as ?uestlove, Pharoah Monche, and Black Sheep. Her company along with trumpet player Igmar Thomas host a weekly event called Harlem Evolution Series Jam Session every Tuesday from 9p-12a at Creole in Harlem. I haven't been able to go since the holiday season picked up, but it's a great event, by a great company which is run by a very talented Queen so I wanted to give a shout-out.

For more information (videos, news and such) visit revivedalive.com.

-D. Scott

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

Okay I've been busy with the holiday season so not much blogging has been going on BUT I did manage to do a little rendition of Santa Claus is Coming to Town for ya!* Enjoy!

- D. Scott
----
*If you can't see the video, click here.

Film: What The Bleep Do We Know?

2009-12-17T17:39:00.001-08:00

Although this film was released in 2004, it's awesomeness just came back to me and I wanted to share. Imagine a high school science class where your teacher decides to show a one of those cheesy films. Now, imagine that the film is actually good and that despite the nerdiness of it all, you are intrigued - That is What The Bleep Do We Know.

It is a documentary of the quantum physics, but rather than just barrage you with facts and studies, we actually learn by following the story of a young woman played by Marlee Martin. This documentary is more than an attempt to explain quantum theory, but it actually explains how our own mindset, habits, and thought processes plays into this branch of science and affects our reality. Sounds deep, right? This is definitely one of those movies no explanation will do it justice; you have to experience it.

I posted the trailer below (click here if you can't view it). Hopefully it'll do a better job of giving you an intro to the movie than I did! :-)

- D. Scott

D's Random Musing #3

2009-12-15T19:51:00.000-08:00

I've been having some less than enjoyable driving experiences lately in NJ and I just need to vent a little bit. So I present to you, D's Driving School.

1. Make a left hand turn from the left lane. It's that simple, yet twice today in fact, I had cars to my right attempt to make a left turn across my lane. *shrug* It's not safe. Don't do it.

2. Let people merge when you see their lane is running out or if they have a signal on. It's nice . Don't be a dick.

3. Get out of the left lane if people are passing you. Repeat after me: Left lane is for paaassssing. If you aren't passing anyone anymore, your time is up. Now, get out of my way.

4. If you're about to miss your exit, DO NOT STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY TO GET OVER. Not only is it not bright, it's also not safe. Just go down to the next exit, turn around and try again. Maybe next time, you'll start making your way over to the exit lane a little sooner.

5. Last but not least, check your blind spot before you change lanes. Don't hit me, please.

Okay, I feel better. *whew* Thanks for listening and drive safely!

- D. Scott

Underground Musical Discovery

2009-12-14T18:11:00.000-08:00

So, I'm perusing through the boards/forums on okayplayer.com and run across this question on how to replicate D'Angelo's rhodes sound. Having gone to school from engineering and synthesis, I was about to put my two cents in the convo when I noticed the question was already answered. But not just answered; it was analyzed, broken down, gangta-thorough.

*blink blink* Doth my eyes deceive me? This is a WOMAN who answered this question!!! Quick, somebody cue the Hallelujah chorus. It is very rare to see a woman with technical knowledge in the music industry - usually they are simply vocalists (no shame in that). Her avatar read MFAKTR. How the hell do you pronounce that? M-Factor? *shrug* I decided to do some digging.

Upon further investigation, I found that her name is Meilana Guillard and the girl is BAD! Michael Jackson BAD! She is a hip-hop producer and jazz saxophonist among other things.* Below are the links to her myspace sites. I hope you are equally as blown away as I was with her music.

Meilana Guillard

Production: http://www.myspace.com/mfaktr

Jazz: http://www.myspace.com/meilanagillard

- D. Scott
--------
*On Meilana's production, she is playing all the instruments. You go girl!

A little D. Scott & The Family Clip #2

2009-12-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Here's a snippet of Ghetto Wonderland Acapella* or as I like to say "acapoco." This is just the 2nd verse but you can listen to the whole thing here. If you have a problem viewing the video click here.

- D. Scott
-------
*Next week I'll have a rendition of a holiday song. I'm leaning towards "This Christmas" by Donny Hathaway but I'm taking requests.

Universal Human Rights Month

2009-12-11T20:22:00.000-08:00

For most, tis the season for giving to honor whatever holiday you are celebrating. However, it is also Universal Human Rights Month. In fact, yesterday (which was the 12/10 for me writing now) was International Human Rights Day.* Now, I had an idea or theory of sorts of what human rights are or more accurately what I think they should be, so prior to writing this entry I looked them up on the UN website to make sure I was right, er, I mean giving you the proper information. Now the UN's official declaration of human rights is very fancy with a preamble and everything and also very looooong. You access the official declaration here. For the purposes of this blog, I will give the Cliff Notes version.

*ahem* (read in a very official voice) All human beings have the right to:

live, be free and feel safe

not be enslaved

be protected by the law

maintain privacy

seek asylum

marry or divorce

speak and think freely

own property and not have it taken from them

work at the place of their choice with equal pay and reasonable hours

maintain a reasonable standard of living with access to food, clothing, shelter, and medical care

be educated

These are bare bones; obviously the UN document is more detailed. But when I look at even this shortened list, I think to myself, "Damn. There are still slaves in the world, people who can not speak freely, couples who can not get married, people who live below the basic standard for living... We have a long way to go."

Thankfully there are organizations which we can support that are on the frontline everyday fighting, bringing media attention, informing governments, changing laws and lives, and delivering necessities of food and medicine. From the local homeless shelter to an international organization like Amnesty, we can give our art, our time, or our funds. So in honor of the great leaders who paved the way for humanity, those who fight today, and those without voice, I'd like to dedicate this Bob Marley song.

-D. Scott
----------
*International Human Rights Day is to commemorate the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights birthed by the UN on 12/10/1948.

D's Random Musing #2

2009-12-10T20:02:00.000-08:00

4 words today: Middle School BAND Recital. Oh yeah, baby! Went to JROC's first middle school band recital and she made all the adults promise not to critique so I will just offer, um, highlights. Here they are in order of occurrence, not importance.

1. Santa Baby choreography for the chorus complete with jazz hands and snaps.

2. Percussion incorporated in the choral pieces. Actually worked pretty well. One kid in particular was playing the hell out of the tambourine during one tune - swore I was at church... now that I think about it, he got the whole audience clapping which brings be to highlight #3...

3. Clapping on 1 & 3. That's right, I did it. I succumbed to white suburbia and clapped with my neighbors on 1 & 3 and you know what? It wasn't nearly as painful as one might think.

4. The Reindeer Rap. As if that title wasn't comical enough on its own, the teacher described the tune in her introduction as a "Speech Piece", I guess or the parents who weren't hip to today's music.

5. The obligatory "hello." Another sistah-girl was at the recital and naturally, she was excited to see that another sistah-girlfriend lived in the neighborhood.* She must of said hello to me 5 times in a row. I think she might of thought I was a figment of her imagination - maybe a ghost of christmas past or something yuletide-esque... Anyways, I confirmed all five times that I was in fact a real sistah girlfriend.

6. Last but not least, the reason I was even at this wonderful event in the first place: JROC. She worked her booty off to prep for this and she's only been playing her instrument (tenor sax) for 3 months, give or take. To be able to go from not knowing an instrument at all to reading music and playing in an ensemble is amazing. She was the star of the night. She might say she's the star of our lives... but everyone knows that I'M the star of our lives!.... just kidding! JROC, you know you're the bee knees around here!

- D. Scott

------
*This phenomenon is also known as being "the chocolate chip in the milk bowl." Change the flavor as necessary to suit your ethnicity when you're the only one or one of a few in a predominantly white event, neighborhood, etc.

Behold the One-Eyed Doll

2009-12-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

When I first saw One-Eyed Doll* perform, the band consisted of just a guitarist/singer (Kimberly Freeman) and a drummer (Number 3) and they tore it up just as hard as if they were a full band. Nowadays I hear they have added a bassist which should make them sound even doper. All that to say, you should check them out - Kimberly is the craziest, sweetest, multi-personality disorder storyteller on stage. You would thoroughly enjoy them. They are chock full of insane, metal, punk goodness. Vid is below or here. Visit oneeyeddoll.com for more info.

- D. Scott
----
*Another gem from the M.A.L.I. Film & Performing Arts Festival in Austin, TX.

D's Random Musing

2009-12-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

Okay so I'm taking a break from being so serious all the time to share a little of the crazy randomness that is my life. Sooooo...

I was watching New Moon* while doing my nails the other day (I was bored) and it hit me: the heroine of our Twilight saga is the most empty character I have ever watched in a film. Even Lifetime Network Movies - the best cheese of all which I love to indulge in - gives their characters back stories.

Okay, check it: this girl Bella comes from nowhere, feels neither allegience or pain towards her estranged father and non-existent mother, and has no talent, dreams or goals other than to be with "Edward" (yes I remember the characters' names unfortunately). I was watching the movie thinking, "my God, girl get a hobby or something already!" I mean, I know many of you might be thinking the same thing about me for watching this movie, but how I ended up watching this movie is besides the point.

And don't get me wrong, I'm not hating on New Moon because cheesy movies are like comfort food; I indulge in it as much as the next person. BUT, my point remains that high school or no high school if a dude breaks up with a girl there may be some tears, but night terrors, screaming in the dead of night, suicidal behavior - a normal person would've been locked up somewhere or at the very least given some Zyrtec.

My last random note is she should've gotten with the werewolf - more muscles, more tan, ages normally, doesn't have to restrain self from killing me for my blood.

In conclusion, the moral of the story is: women should strive for bigger goals than being vampire wifeys, Zyrtec is for depression and if ever faced with the choice between being a vampire wifey or werewolf wifey, go with the werewolf.

End of rambling,

- D. Scott

-----
*How I got to watch New Moon on my laptop is another story for another time.

Film: Guerilla Midwife

2009-12-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of viewing the documentary "Guerilla Midwife" at the M.A.L.I. Film & Performance Arts Festival in Austin, Texas this past summer. Through this film I was re-educated on the importance of birth and it's effect on the psychological and sociological development of a person - how in those first moments of life we learn to relate to human beings whether in be through love or isolation. Guerilla Midwife gives account of Ibu (mother) Robin Lim from receiving her calling as a midwife to faciliating child-birth in Bali as well as informs through interview of people in the medical community and families who have been touched by Ibu Robin Lim herself. Learn more about the film by visiting skwattacamp.com.

- D. Scott

*If you are unable to view the preview, please go to anewqueendom.blogspot.com.

Note: the preview below is graphic in that it contains clips of breastfeeding and childbirth

If you'd you like to promote your film on this blog, please email me at danielle@dscottandthefamily.com.

A Little D. Scott & The Family Clip

2009-12-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, I gotta put in a plug for my music. *shrug* If you can't view the video for whatever reason click here to view it on YouTube.

- D. Scott

Give Thanks

2009-11-23T16:52:00.000-08:00

As me and my crew are making our Thanksgiving grocery list and plotting how we will stuff ourselves, I am jolted by the thought that some can not afford basic groceries let alone, the feast many of us will prepare. Upon further investigation, I found that this month is Hunger Awareness Month and I stumbled upon feedingamerica.org which is a great source of information to become educated on the issue of hunger and what can be done to help.

Tis the season where we are not only planning a huge dinner, but where adults and children alike are making lists of things we want for whichever holiday we celebrate. Let's for one moment take a breath and give thanks for the basic necessities we enjoy everyday and if you're so moved, give a little something-something whether you invite someone over who can't make it home or donate food to you local community organization - it's about the love behind the deed.

After all, we will all need a little kindness before Black Friday where we will fight to the death over some must-have item on our beloved's wish-list...

-D. Scott

Tolerance

2009-11-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

We as people may not always see eye to eye on things from feminism to religion to politics, but we as people should be able to accept or at the very least tolerate peoples lifestyles and life choices - this is only a theory mind you. We can not make anyone do anything or be a certain way. No matter how much fear or hatred is spewed, deep down humans are true to their own essence and uniqueness; we are true to our sense of self even if we can only express it quietly within ourselves. But why should we be quiet? Why should we hide our light that is our soul? Why should we fear our safety for simply being who we are? In this day and age where so much has advanced, still so much needs maturity.

Tolerance means we agree to live on this earth together without bothering each other too much since neither one of us have any other planet which we can inhabit. It doesn't mean that anyone one is conceding that the other is right or wrong - just a simple live and let live. But someone did not let Jorge Steven Lopez Marcado live. His body had been decapitated, dismembered and partially burned because he was gay - he was just 19 years old.

These acts are utterly dispicable, but from this ugliness, the beauty of the human spirit has emerged. Tomorrow (Sunday 11/22) there are going to be candlelight vigils held in various cities in the US (some listed below) for remembrance, for peace, for unity, for tolerance. While it is a great thing to be able to attend one of these vigils, what is even greater is the love we show each other as people when the vigil is over.

- D. Scott

IN MEMORIAM - Jorge Steven Lopez Mercado & Jason Mattison Jr. (LA)

LOS ANGELES
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Time: 8:00pm - 9:30pm
Location: Corner of Santa Monica and San Vicente in West Hollywood

============================================

BOSTON
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: In front of Trinity Church, Copley Plaza, Boston

======================================

NEW YORK CITY
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Time: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Hudson St. Pier 45 at Christopher St., NYC, NY

==================================================

CHICAGO

Date: Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: California & Division.

====================================

DALLAS

Date: Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Corner of Cedar Springs and Throckmorton

Queen O Resigns

2009-11-20T20:07:00.000-08:00

The Queen of Daytime Television feels it's time to relinquish the throne. DON'T GOOOOOO, OPRAH!!!!! I'm sorry. Let me pull myself together. I remember being a young child see Queen O on television. I watched her grow as a person on screen through the years. She went from trying to fit the mold of media personality image to self-acceptance and focus on her health. Oprah, to many, was a guidance counselor, therapist, teacher, life coach, and tour guide for the journey of life. She helped us appreciate things we took for granted, and look at things we never would have otherwise thought about. She has been an icon for television, for women, for minorities, and for humanity. She has shared her blessings with ordinary people every day from new cars and makeovers to building a school and founding a charity. Her interviews and guest rosters are the stuff of which legends are made. She launched careers and briefly crippled the beef industry (good times).

I don't know about you, but to me 4:00 will never be the same after she airs her last show in 2011. I will no longer run to the TV or set the TiVo to record. Ooo, wait, now there's Ellen at 4:00! Just kidding, Oprah. Ellen's cool, but there will never be another Oprah. I applaud you, your career, and your legacy and most of all, I thank you.

-D. Scott

Connection

2009-11-18T16:30:00.000-08:00

I was wondering what I was going to write about today - looking for inspiration around me, but finding none, I went to upload a video on youtube and stumbled across a wonderful video showing random people reminding the human race of our connection to each other and the world. The video is simple yet profoundly beautiful; I don't have to give anything more than this introduction because it contains enough inspiration in and of itself. Hope you enjoy and I highly recommend checking out the other videos on the founders' channel here.

-D. Scott

Mama Mammogram!

2009-11-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

Today a government committee issued a new recommendation that women should not get yearly mammograms until age 50. Breast Cancer Research groups say women should start getting them at age 40. I am not sure how this new recommendation will affect health coverage, if at all, but this announcement today really struck a chord in me as to how important health is.

I don't want to get into the politics of this - I just want to say ladies, let's take care of ourselves. Let's take advantage of all the medical knowledge that is available to us whether it's traditional, holistic, or alternative (for all you acupuncture folks), whether in a free clinic or private practice. And I don't just mean when you're sick or not feeling well. And this isn't just for breast cancer. We only get one body and one life. Let's be preventive. Let's be proactive. Oh, and if by chance you're not a Queen and you're reading this, pass it on one.

- D. Scott

Click here to read the CNN article.

Precious

2009-11-14T13:22:00.000-08:00

I just saw the movie "Precious" yesterday and I wanted to encourage everyone to go see it. For those of you who may not know, Precious, which is based off of the novel "Push" by Sapphire, follows the story of 16-year-old Precious Jones who is pregnant for the second time by her father, living with her abusive mother, and trying to hide the fact that she is illiterate. However, despite her circumstances, Precious has a sense of faith and hope that there is something greater for her.

The movie was incredibly intense and raw. Nothing is glamorized - ugliness is ugliness and light is truly light. Because of the honesty with the which the story was told, the contrast between hope and struggle are that much more vivid. I applaud Sappire for creating the powerful story that inspired this film. After seeing the film, I'm definitely going to read the book as well to be able to experience the full story.

As an aside, I had a conversation with someone that was not interested in seeing this movie because they didn't want to see African-American characters who were impoverished, obese, and whatever else they defined as the stigma of the Black stereotype for fear that it would be exploitative and degrading. My answer to that was this story is anything but exploitative - it's honest; it touches you; it makes you feel connected and draws you in. That's what great movies are supposed to do, no matter what the subject matter is. On the other hand, if we want more "less stereotypical" images of Blacks, Latinos, Asians, gays, lesbians, transgenders, women,... the list goes on and on... all that starts outside of the movie theatre in how we as people portray ourselves in this life and if some of us dare to tell a story where life is not so much of a struggle, we can do that. But, let's not negate the voices that come from unimaginable darkness because they have something to say too.

- D. Scott

Queens Around The World

2009-11-10T18:49:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a recurring article where I would like to feature Queens who are changing their communities, the industry in which they work, etc. If you are someone who is changing the world or if someone has touched your life in someway, let me know so we can honor them. You can also submit an organization as well.

I've Got Entertainment (NYC, NY) - A woman-owned artist development company dedicated to being "The Change in Music." I've been working with these wonderful women for some time and not only do they prepare the talent, but they prepare you emotionally and mentally for the pressure of the industry as well as increase your business knowledge. Every show they have done has desginated a portion of proceeds to a charity such as Breast Cancer Awareness and Save The Music; it is a trend they will continue because it is their belief that we as people have a responsibility to help one another. I've Got is run by Renee Ochoa (CEO) and Emily O'Neill (President).

http://www.ivegotentertainment.com

Reflect & Strengthen (Boston, MA) - A grassroots collective of young working class women from the urban neighborhoods of Boston who take a holistic approach to organizing to create personal and social transformation. Their programming focuses are political education, healing form trauma, creative expression, community building and campaign work to end racial disparities in the juvenile justice system. I've had the honor of performing for these beautiful women and also witnessing the power of their expression. Even though they are in financial crisis, they have continued programming and making a difference in the lives of young women. I was introduced to R&S through Member/Lead Organizer Alexia Lomon Arroyo.

http://www.reflectandstrengthen.org

Visit their sites for more information on how you can network, participate, and support these passionate Queens as they are building up their companies and communities.

-D. Scott

Female MCs: Where are they?

2009-11-09T15:36:00.000-08:00

Being a female MC can get lonely. Someone once said that we're like the duck-billed platypus - you don't come across us often. I know that we are out there...underground, independently spittin' rhymes in cyphers on the street corner, jumpin' in on mixtapes, rockin' stages at a local club. Sometimes some of us are able to make some noise somewhere...

But where is our presence in hip-hop, hell in music in general? Why aren't our voices consistently heard? Where is the greatness? Where are the female MCs who aren't just oversexed eye-candy? I'm not saying that we have to be monolithic - hell, there's plenty of room for vixen to soldier and everything in between. But I am saying where is the staying power of the female lyricist? And what holds us back from filling the void, from having the reach of of the icons before us? Are we doing something wrong? Is it the industry? I'm just musing here, so if you have answers to any or all of these questions, I'd love to hear it.

-D. Scott

Queen

2009-11-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

"You're a Queen, Sistah, Lady, Mama, Daughter! Honor yourself!"

- D. Scott (Chorus of "Queen")

(Listen to Queen - Live Performance in Studio at WERS 88.9FM Boston. *FB make sure you visit anewqueendom.blogspot.com if the MP3 doesn't show up)

To commemorate the upcoming release of my debut single, "Queen," I decided to create a blog that could be a Queendom which simply put is a sisterhood. This is a place where queens of all backgrounds, sizes, races, sexual orientations, and religious beliefs can be honored.

Here we can redefine the Queen past the traditional sense of simply being the wife of a King. While it is a beautiful and wonderful blessing to be a wife and find love, we are more than that. Whether a King is present or not, we are still Queens - people who are powerful entities in our own right.

It is my desire that this blog be more than just a promotional tool where I let you know what my band and I are up to - I want to learn about what other Queens are doing in the world, what interests you from music and art to events and charities. I want this to be a community that we can build together to affect change in ourselves because that is the beginning of changing the world.

So how can connect and build together?
1. Write an article: If you have a story to tell, a topic you're passionate about or advice to give, we want to hear about it and give you a platform to have your voice heard.

2. Submit a video/photo: Become a Queendom correspondent - our eyes on the ground shedding light on people who are changing the world - even if it's you! Whether it be a interview or portrait, short or music video, or just simply a picture of something beautiful we want to see and show it.

3. Submit a topic: Let me know who your favorite person, place, festival, musician, or movie is so we can review it. Conversations are a two-way street - so what do you want to talk about?

4. Follow us: Join the mailing list, subscribe to this blog, friend us on MySpace or Facebook. It's like giving a hug... or if you're not a hugger, it's like a handshake.

5. Share: Leave comments, link to us, make sure we're linking to you... Let's make a network of sisterhood!

To be featured on the blog (articles, vids, pics, topics, links, etc.) send your inquiry to info@dscottandthefamily.com. If you'd like to book D. Scott & The Family for a gig, charity event, etc., send your inquiry to Emily O'Neill at emily@ivegotentertainment.com

I can't wait to find you, my fellow Queens, so I can hear your voices and connect myself to a family of sisters around the world!

- D. Scott