Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Publicizing Entertainers & Entertaining Our Readers
Bellamy Brothers to Britney Spears
Steve Martin with the
Steep Canyon Rangers Stella Parton
Place Your Music Business, Label or Artist Ad Today
Advertise in the Country Entertainment USA Magazine www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Call (615) 474-0162
or E-mail
Country Entertainment USA
P.O. Box 100985
Nashville, TN. 37224
Country Entertainment USA STAFF
DISCLAIMER:
Country Entertainment USA is not liable for any inaccura-
cies submitted by freelance writers, advertisers or publicists.
Opinions and claims made by advertisers and writers are
their own, and do not represent Country Entertainment USA
Magazine or Publisher.
CONTENTS
4 Bellamy Brothers to
Britney Spears
5 Steve Martin with the
Steep Canyon Rangers
7 Little Jimmy Dickens
8 Stella Parton
A SONGBIRD‟S HEART
11 CD Reviews
12 Country Music Career
On The Rise
14 Manuel, The Man Behind
Entertainment Industry‟s
Top Fashion
Back Page Poem by
James Tyler
PG 3
Editor:
Cindy Gordon
Associate Editor:
Holly Marie Tong
Managing Editor, Sales, Marketing
& Distribution Manager:
Roy Skropits
Writer:
Doug Dyer
CD Reviews:
Brenda L. Madden
GENERAL INFORMATION:
ADVERTISING & RATES:
PRESS RELEASES:
By Mail
Country Entertainment USA
P.O. Box 100985
Nashville, TN. 37224
Office (615) 977-1734
Cell (615) 474-0162
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
PG 4 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Bellamy Brothers to Britney Spears "If I Said You Ripped Off My Song, Would You Hold It Against Me?"
Something about Britney Spears' new single, "Hold It
Against Me," seems a bit all too familiar to David and How-
ard Bellamy of the Bellamy Brothers. After giving the pop
star's new single a listen, the Bellamy Brothers found them-
selves asking, "Didn't we already do that?"
“Back in 1979, I wrote a little song called „If I Said You Had
A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me,” recalls
David Bellamy. “That little song went #1 and has since be-
come one of the defining songs of our career. If you listen to
the lyrics of Britney Spears‟ new single, „Hold It Against
Me,‟ you‟ll find some major similarities.”
The brothers picked up on the news when their YouTube.com
video for “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You
Hold It Against Me” was up 270,000 views, virtually over-
night. In addition, several visitors on the PerezHilton.com
and EW.com discussion boards began crying foul, leaving comments like "Bellamy Brothers rip-off" and "the
Bellamy Brothers used the same lyrical hook in 1979."
“Howard and I have no personal beef with Britney. She‟s a talented gal. But professionally, well, in all honesty,
we feel completely ripped off. Where's the originality?" says David Bellamy.
Howard Bellamy comments, "Hey Brit... If I said you ripped off our song, would you hold it against me? Thanks."
Spears‟ latest single was leaked on the internet Monday and officially released Tuesday.
In 1979, the Bellamy Brothers' "If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me," was
named 'Record of the Year' by the United Kingdom.
Watch "If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me,"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVCRgI2Ld7U
Throughout their 30+ year career, the Bellamy Brothers have charted 14 #1 Hits on the US country and pop
music charts. The brothers are still riding high. This week, their Anthology Volume 1, hit #1 on the Norwegian
Music Charts and last fall, the brothers spent 7 weeks at #1 on the Swiss Music Charts with their Bellamy Brothers
& Gola: The Greatest Hits Sessions. The album recently went double-platinum in Switzerland. This May, the
Bellamy Brothers are celebrating 35 years since the release of their first #1 Hit, "Let Your Love Flow," and in
conjunction, will release Bellamy Brothers: Greatest Hits Volume 1 this spring.
www.bellamybrothers.com.
PG 5 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Bluegrass Reaches Mainstream Audiences Steep Canyon Rangers Play Sold-out Venues with Steve Martin
and Sign with Rounder Records
Steep Canyon Rangers have played in front of more people
than any other bluegrass band this year. When iconic come-
dian - and accomplished banjo player - Steve Martin hand-
picked SCR to tour with him across the country, they
jumped at the chance. Yet, Martin shifts the spotlight: “I
need them,” Martin says. “They don‟t need me.”
In a year jam-packed with tour dates, including Carnegie
Hall, along with Steve Martin the band landed appearances
on “Austin City Limits,” “The View," "Good Morning
America" and “Late Show with David Letterman,” intro-
ducing bluegrass to millions of viewers who may have been
hearing it for the first time. And with Martin, they head-
lined venues such as Bonnaroo, Merlefest, New Orleans
Jazzfest, Newport Folk Festival and played 90% of their
tour shows to sold-out crowds, including the Royal Festival Hall in London.
As 2010 wraps up, SCR culminates a stellar year by signing with premier bluegrass record label Rounder Re-
cords, which just celebrated its 40th anniversary of great music this year. This new partnership further estab-
lishes Steep Canyon Rangers as an extraordinary presence on the bluegrass and roots music scene, joining the
likes of other Rounder artists such as Alison Krauss, Bela Fleck, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Robert Plant.
The horizon line of the future stretches out broad and wide as SCR plans a nationwide tour with Steve Martin in
2011 to support their collaborative project due in March. Guest artists featured on this recording include Paul
McCartney and the Dixie Chicks. The Rangers also plan their first Rounder release in 2011.
Bringing bluegrass music to new audiences, the Steep Canyon Rangers continue their meteoric rise as passionate
ambassadors for the bluegrass music they love.
Steep Canyon Rangers Perform at The Belcourt Theatre, Thursday, March 3rd, 2011 at 8 PM
www.steepcanyon.com
About Steep Canyon Rangers: Brothers in music - Mike Guggino (mandolin), Charles Humphrey III (bass),
Woody Platt (guitar), Nicky Sanders (fiddle), and Graham Sharp (banjo) - met and began playing bluegrass dur-
ing their college days in Chapel Hill, NC, And ten years later, the band has only deepened their commitment to
roots music performing with fierce instrumental prowess, but also providing deeply moving songwriting and
harmonies, infusing traditional bluegrass with contemporary themes and arrangements.
"...sweet, warm, and enormously satisfying, gently pushing bluegrass into the new century." - Kenny Berkowitz,
Acoustic Guitar
Photo furnished by Lotos Nile Media - Walkabout Images
Country Artist Jeff Olson Released "The Legend of Black Mountain" to
All FM Country Radios Station in Kentucky
Other radio stations that would like a copy e-mail: [email protected]
Review
The Legend of Black Mountain
Truck driving songs have long been a mainstay of country music. Singer/
songwriter, Jeff Olson continues that tradition with his single, "The Legend of Black
Mountain." This is a fast-paced song with harmonica and fiddle complimenting
Jeff's hard-core country vocals. He brings this story to life in true country music
fashion. It‟s not just the truck brakes smokin' on this song!
Brenda L. Madden
Country Artist Jeff Olson www.countryartistjeffolson.com
PG 7 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Wednesday, January 19th Little Jimmy Dickens arrived at the crowded Rippy‟s Bar and Grill in
downtown Nashville to celebrate his 90th birthday surrounded by friends and family. As quick-
witted and lively as always, Little Jimmy filled the room with laughter and entertainment. The
entire upstairs of the popular Broadway bar was decorated with banners, balloons and photos as
video screens displayed various moments in his career. Memories and stories were shared while
Jimmy was honored for the impact he makes in Music City. It was clear that he has influenced
an immeasurable amount of lives in his 9 decades. It is also obvious just how loved he is and
how respected he is for the incredible contribution he continues to make to country music.
While it would be difficult to mention
everyone in attendance at this special
event, some of the guests spotted were
Grand Ole Opry members Riders in
the Sky, Jeanne Pruett and John
Conlee. Also enjoying his birthday
festivities were Danielle Peck, Sherrie
Austin, Buddy Cannon, Jessi Colter,
Bryan White, Bill Anderson, Patsy
Cline‟s husband Charlie Dick and car-
toonist Guy Gilchrist just to name a
few. Mayor Karl Dean, Buddy Can-
non and Bill Anderson were among a
few of those who spoke about Jimmy,
sharing memories and recognizing the
stellar person that he is. In the midst
of the celebrations, guests enjoyed
cupcakes and refreshments while so-
cializing with one another. Old friends
were able to catch up while it appeared that new friendships and connections were being formed.
Amazingly, Little Jimmy Dickens has been appearing on the Grand Ole Opry
stage for 60 years. I know I‟m not alone in feeling very thankful to have
been invited to this event as Little Jimmy Dickens IS Nashville and IS Coun-
try Music. His humor, charisma and genuine talent continue to pave the way,
while providing entertainment for so many. So again…Happy 90th Birthday
to Little Jimmy Dickens…we love you!
LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS IMMORTALIZED AT "THE PALM"
Country Music Hall of Fame member Little Jimmy Dickens has become the
latest member of The Palm family. At The Palm, the dining rooms are a
panorama of the classic cartoons and caricatures of local regulars, business-
men, politicians, and celebrities which make up their impressive customer
base. Dickens, who has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1948,
was presented with The Palm‟s signature caricature, just prior to his 90th
birthday celebration.
Little Jimmy Dickens Celebrates His 90th Birthday
by Holly Marie Tong
Photo by Gordy Collins
Stella Parton A SONGBIRD’S HEART
PG 8 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
is just like a great meal. It should have variety in it.”
Stella continues, “I‟m so excited about getting the
show up. This venue is so incredibly beautiful and
historical and I‟m excited about the possibility of
having an ongoing place to sit down once in a while
and do my show in town for people that come here to
see Nashville performers. There‟s just not enough of
that.”
However, don‟t think for a minute that this is the only
thing on Stella‟s plate right now. Stella is an enter-
tainer, songwriter, actress, author, businesswoman,
philanthropist, producer and artist consultant with
numerous projects in the works. “I feel like my ca-
reer has necessitated that I be able to change gears,
whether I‟ve felt like it or not. As I‟ve gotten older in
the business and just as a women in general, I feel
I‟ve gravitated to being an advisor, counselor and
motivational person as well,” she comments.
In addition to concert appearances and motivational
speaking engagements, Stella will be releasing an in-
spirational memoir in the spring, which will be avail-
able on her website, stellaparton.com. And the jour-
ney continues.
In February, Stella Parton will
be bringing her show, “A Song-
bird‟s Heart” to the Nashville
Dinner Theatre. When asked to
describe the show, Stella notes,
“I consider it to be a musical
journey through my career
from my earliest musical influ-
ences through the diversity of
music I‟ve been exposed to throughout the years.”
The idea, originally conceived at Stella‟s Hat House
Café in Pigeon Forge, developed into a cabaret-style
performance spotlighting not only her vocal styling,
but her songwriting prowess as well.
Although Stella has performed around the world, she
knows that it is difficult for a Nashville-based artist to
work at home. She comments, “Nashville is probably
one of the toughest places to work, because so many
people in the audience do exactly what you do and
you‟ll be under tighter scrutiny than you might be in a
city outside of Nashville.”
However, as always, Stella is up for the challenge.
Throughout her musical journey, she has displayed
talent, diversity and determination that few others can
tout, whether recording, performing, acting, writing or
just living life. All those experiences, professional and
personal, have played a role in the development of
this production. Stella explains, “You always bring
back something to your live concert performances
from every experience you‟ve had whether it‟s from
TV, acting or working in a musical or whatever. You
incorporate visually as well as musically in everything
you are doing. I‟ve tried to bring all that together.”
The show, designed specifically for an intimate set-
ting, embodies not only Stella‟s music, but also her
unique sense of humor, costume changes and personal
photos in, as she describes it, a “retro-style,” pulling
from the early influence of the “torch” singers from
the „50s & „60s. “It will be vintage Stella,” she
laughs, “I‟m a visual artist, not just a singer. A show
by Brenda L. Madden
Ben Stillwater began his musical journey out west in the state of
Montana. A fourth generation logging and cattleman, Ben picked
up a guitar as a young boy and knew he had yet another passion.
Ben would listen to and learn from the older country players that
his father would talk to him about and his Grandpa Ben inspired
him to be the musician he has become.
Ben found his way to Nashville, TN and cut his first album, titled,
“Giddy Up Truck” just a few years back. That album produced
songs that reflected on the experiences Ben had as a truck driver
and his longing for home and family. It also introduced us to the
title track, “Giddy Up Truck”, that takes us down the highway full
throttle.
Ben‟s latest album, “Montana in the Spring” sees Ben take over
the production and arrangements with uncompromising skill. His
unique and nostalgic way of playing comes through on tracks like,
“Someday Came Like a Freight Train” and “Old Friend”. Ben‟s
style of playing brings back the sounds and rhythm of the legends
of early country music performers with a raw and honest contem-
porary feel. There‟s little doubt Grandpa Ben couldn‟t be more
proud of the man and musician Ben has grown to be.
Scott Palmer
Ben Stillwater · Feb 10, 2011 www.benstillwater.com
Nashville Tradition's Show
Bell Buckle, TN. www.nashvilletraditionsonline.com
Live Show
Aired on 650 am/WSM www.wsmonline.com
PG 11 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Mail CD's for Reviews To:
Country Entertainment USA
P.O. Box 100985
Nashville, TN. 37224
JL Hickerson‟s debut CD, Just Lucky - simply stated is pure honky-tonk fun! The
album gets off to a runnin‟ start with the fast movin‟ song, “Hardcore Country Girl”
which fits together well with the other material on the project including the “cry-in-
your-beer” style ballad, “Whiskey Did You Miss Me” and the honky-tonker‟s party
anthem, “Damnit Boys.” Even closing out the collection with “Jesus Is The Answer”
seemed appropriate. This six-song CD covers everything from drinkin‟ and lovin‟
to partyin‟ and repentance - all in less than thirty minutes. A great listen for the
hardcore country audience.
by Brenda L. Madden
Up To 5 Star Rating
This girl has some rock-n-roll in her veins, but she mixes that well with the country
in her soul. Bars, Scars and Old Guitars is an edgy project, with the title cut leading
the way. “South Of Utah” and “All Over This Town” have more of a country feel
while “Smoke It” is a rockin‟ bluesy number that will catch your attention. AJ also
handles the ballad “I‟ll Let You” well. Make no mistake this six-song CD is a con-
temporary project as AJ Janson blurs the lines between country and rock-n-roll.
Jeff Olson must have some traditional country roots in his past because this three-
song CD, Jeff Olson 2010, puts tradition on display. The material deals with a cou-
ple customary topics in country music - love and trains - add to that a twangy guitar,
fiddle and harmonica and you are on the road to a familiar country sound - illus-
trated best on this project by the up-tempo number, “Rhythm Of The Rail.” While
not as polished as some, there is honesty in Jeff‟s delivery and songwriting - one of
the main components in country music.
JL Hickerson Just Lucky
www.jlhickerson.com
Jeff Olson
Jeff Olson 2010
www.countryartistjeffolson.com
AJ Janson Bars, Scars and Old Guitars
www.myspace.com/ajjansenmusic
Country Music Career On The Rise (Showcase Interview with Artist Michael David)
PG 12 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
everyone that had a hand in getting me here and per-
sonally thanking them.
Q: How can you sum up the journey of what has led
you here today?
A: It has been an adventure. There have been trials,
tribulations, hurdles, failures and successes but the
whole road was a blessing!
Q: What can fans expect to hear from Michael David
in 2011?
A: I look forward to hitting the road immediately and
beginning the process of a new project towards the
end of the year.
Q: What would you say
sets you apart from other
artists?
A: The whole unique pack-
age that I offer. Embracing
my heritage with a different
look and a sound that can
transcend stereotypical bar-
riers. I‟m filling a void for
the Hispanic demographic
in country music while
staying true to the symbol-
ism of what country music
is.
Gina Lee of Buddy Lee Attractions added:
“I like the conversational style that Michael brings.
It fits in really well with what country music is today.
He has great stage presence and he is good looking.
He is bringing the Hispanic community and country
music more together.
This hasn‟t really happened since Freddy Fender." Q: I got a chance to watch your music video for
“She‟s Loving Him Tonight.” It was great! Can you
tell me a little about the filming of this?
A: The whole video was a learning experience.
Saturday, January 22 I had the privi-
lege of attending an unforgettable
showcase and celebration for country
artist Michael David. This special
event marked a significant career
milestone as it is just the beginning of
what is to come for this talented en-
tertainer. This proved to be an excit-
ing occasion for him, his family,
friends, business partners and everyone who has been
with him since he first began the journey in pursuit of
his musical dreams. When I walked into the Red Rooster to support Mi-
chael, I was immediately taken up with the setup and
decor of the venue. As I made my way through a
large audience of supporters I then noticed the attrac-
tive lighting and smoke on the stage where Michael
would be appearing. It wasn‟t long before a dressed
for success Michael and his full band entered the spot-
light and began his 5 song set. As the cameras flashed
and Michael performed on the smoke filled stage, I
thought of how I could actually visualize him singing
at a large arena to 20,000 plus. His smooth, baritone
vocals couldn‟t have sounded better as they carried
through the walls of the Red Rooster. Michael power-
fully sang each song with emotion and locked in lis-
teners the entire time. His chosen songs such as
“She‟s Loving Him Tonight” and “The Conversation”
successfully showcase his ability to be respectful to
the classic country sound of those who paved the way
while also delivering the modern sound that is the pre-
sent and future of country radio.
After an energetic Michael exited the stage to greet
family, friends, fans and industry professionals, I had
the opportunity to talk with him about his recent ca-
reer accomplishments and the journey that has led him
to where he is today:
Q: How do you feel right now?
A: I‟m very proud that the event is a success. It‟s a
true pleasure to be able to share this with each and
by Holly Marie Tong
This El Paso, Texas native‟s many experiences have
shaped his individuality and set him apart as a person
and as a country music artist. It is clear that the
twists and turns have broadened and strengthened his
songwriting catalog and charisma as a performer.
Aside from the fact that he is a gifted entertainer, he
also has a vital characteristic that I observed. Mi-
chael has a true understanding for what makes a long,
successful career besides talent itself: He is a man
that has his priorities straight. He recognizes what is
important on stage as well as off stage and has a
priceless understanding for how he must make the
two work together. As down to earth and personable
as he is talented, he is truly thankful to everyone who
has been there for him and will always genuinely ap-
preciate his fans. Michael David knows who he is
and what he wants to do….and I believe it is that
strong foundation that creates a lasting career of in-
tegrity and longevity.
Stay tuned because special announcements lie ahead.
www.michaeldavidcountry.com
It was a fun filled 4 days of putting a song into video
form and watching it come together. There are so
many details that go into a video of this quality that no
one ever sees. The stories behind the scenes were my
favorite part.
Q: Advice you would offer those who share the same
dreams?
A: Find the right people and let them do what they
do, trusting them in the area they work. Knowing
without a doubt that when its their time to do their job
they will do it without drama and with professional-
ism. It is a long process so you need to work with peo-
ple that believe in the long term and aren't afraid of
trying something new and can adapt to change.
Q: I imagine there are people you want to thank so I
would like to give you that opportunity?
A: God first and foremost and family - can‟t do any-
thing without them. This has been a team effort; there
are so many people that deserve to be thanked and we
don't have that kind of print space. (Smiley Face)
PG 14 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
two facts are and as easy as they could respectfully
stand on their own and form Manuel‟s entire career, it
is far from stopping there. The Beatles, Frank Sina-
tra, Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Sonny & Cher, Little
Richard, The Beach Boys, Madonna, Hank Williams
I, II AND III, Keith Urban, Alan Jackson, John Tra-
volta, James Dean, George H.
Bush, George W. Bush, Dwight
D. Eisenhower and Ronald
Regan are just a VERY minimal
amount of the individuals that
Manuel has made clothes for.
Manuel has designed wardrobe
for at least 90 movies, many
television shows and an untold
number of formal events and
national happenings. As you can
see, Manuel is a legend and a
one of a kind gifted artist that is
blessed with a craft that leaves
onlookers awestruck and in ad-
miration.
When speaking of Manuel one must not use the sim-
ple term “designer” loosely as he is a master artist
and a true leader in his field. Each piece of Manuel‟s
standout work is carefully crafted and contains intri-
cate detail as he gives close attention and care to eve-
rything he makes. With rhinestones, complex em-
broideries and true flair, his strong designs are the
real deal and a lasting trademark in our world today.
However, you may be wondering when and how
Manuel got started? To answer your likely question,
Manuel calls it “serendipity.” He was in Mexico and
amazingly just 7 years old when his older brother
taught him how to sew. What his brother likely did-
n‟t realize at the time was that he had helped Manuel
find his true lasting niche that would become a mas-
sive national success. With a humble beginning and
many twists and turns Manuel‟s talents were always
recognized and built upon everywhere he went. He
later found himself involved in Western Wear and
eventually opened a shop in Hollywood.
“Lights, Cameras, Action…” are the
words I would use to describe
Manuel‟s famous showroom on the
day of my visit. Successful models,
actors/actresses and singer/
songwriters all gathered to partici-
pate in a photo shoot that celebrity
photographer Chuck Jones was on
hand to work. Stylists Kimberly An-
ton and Lorrie Bradshaw were present to do hair and
makeup to compliment the beautiful fashions of
Manuel. This professional shoot took place as
www.manuelcouture.com is being redesigned, recon-
structed, evolved and expanded. An impressive selec-
tion of quality outfits and classic styles were being
modeled and photographed for this special project.
As a long time admirer
of Manuel‟s work, get-
ting the chance to sit
down and talk with
him about his journey
was a true honor.
Manuel, often referred to as the “Rhinestone Rem-
brandt” has crafted an immeasurable amount of cos-
tumes and priceless fashion designs for a great deal of
the most high profile celebrities of the past and pre-
sent. When speaking of Manuel, it is essential and of
the utmost importance to realize
just how much of a major impact
he has had and will continue to
have on the fashion world. Have
you ever wondered about the
craft behind the signature suit of
Elvis? That was Manuel. He
personally knew Elvis as a polite,
respectful client who was a good
friend of his. What about the
story behind Johnny Cash being
the man in black? You guessed
it…it was also Manuel who made
this possible for this near and
dear client. As amazing as these
by Holly Marie Tong
(The Man Behind the Entertainment Industry’s Top Fashion of the Past, Present and Future)
PG 15 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
accurately that he could probably sew a masterpiece
suit in his sleep!...and I wouldn‟t be surprised if he
has! (Ha-ha).
Manuel is bringing exciting new touches to his al-
ready extraordinary designs. Having been known for
about 50 years for his work in the Western and Rock
n‟Roll Couture, Jesse says she feels that he is expand-
ing on that niche:
She notes, “right now we are seeing a lot more skulls,
guns, feathers, sacred hearts and decks of cards. I‟m
seeing more of a fusion in the western and rock n‟
roll. To me, as a young person, this speaks to a
younger more contemporary look. Of course Manuel
still creates his traditional, sophisticated pieces, but
I‟m seeing him expound upon what he‟s already been
known to design. And this makes so much sense; as
his usual clientele is changing, he‟s showing the pub-
lic that he can change with it.”
I observed this when I seen mod-
els wearing his newest creations
and realized: Manuel is main-
taining the beautiful originality of
the work he is known for by hav-
ing a continued uncompromising
distinction, but he is also adapt-
ing, expanding and excelling
above and beyond in a competi-
tive and unpredictable industry.
Never expect Manuel to rest on
his laurels…he loves what he
does and we love him, so why
would he? With a proven track
record in the fashion world,
Manuel has never been driven by
money ambition, nor by duplicating anyone else or
repeating anything else. He is a fan of diversity and a
fan of making people shine. After all, wardrobe plays
an extremely important role in everyone‟s life
whether famous or not and the positive disposition of
Manuel is that he takes the time to learn his clients
and to help them find the style that fits their personal-
ity. Aside from being a true fashion icon, he is an
encourager, a confidence booster, an inspiring phi-
losopher, a business mind and an inspiration that con-
tinues to fascinate and build up those around him.
From Hollywood, he went to Nashville and today he
continues to work closely with the country music in-
dustry. He is a fan of giving back and speaks of want-
ing to start an Institute of the Arts. He still faithfully
makes his way to the studio every day as he truly
loves what he does. His couture doesn‟t show any
remote sign of slowing down….in fact, it appears to
be going upward and onward which brings me to my
next very important point:
I also had the pleasure of talk-
ing with Manuel‟s daughter
Jesse about the thriving pre-
sent and the undoubtedly
bright future of this successful
artistic business that their fam-
ily is very understandably so
driven and passionate about.
Jesse, who works in the show-
room daily is the business
manager as she keeps a tight
schedule of managing personal
appointments, the showroom,
walk-in traffic, general man-
agement, sales, press and ac-
counts. Just from one visit, I
was able to see how proactive, thorough and profes-
sional she is in her work as well. It is clear that she
has a true understanding of the direction of the enter-
tainment industry and the need to accompany and
compliment that direction. She recognizes that both
the fashion and music industries are changing and as a
result, Manuel‟s clientele is also changing. While
Manuel‟s garments are indisputably sophisticated and
gorgeously unique, she examines their brand making
certain that they evolving in line with those changes.
Jesse says they are wanting to keep everyone updated
on everything from new products, to upcoming show-
cases to what is going on at their shop. In the midst of
an internet age she wants to be sure that products are
viewable and accessible, while keeping Manuel origi-
nal and true to its roots and unique creativity. She
emphasizes, “You don‟t have to be a celebrity to wear
Manuel…there is something for everyone!” She also
notes, “Manuel is a genius, he can make anything out
of a few yards of fabric.” I can personally agree with
that because just from watching Manuel with his scis-
sors I observed that his talent comes so naturally and Photos by Chuck Jones
James Tyler
James can be found at
John A‟s on Music Valley
Dr. reciting a poem when
the house band takes a
break.
THE THE THE SPRINGSSPRINGSSPRINGS AND GLADESAND GLADESAND GLADES
The wind blows deep in the valley
It cools the springs and glades
That hide among the trees
This is the valley of life
Where the flowers never die
And the leaves fall and reclaim
Their former vigor as the seasons pass
And the animals scamper
To their winter asylums
The sun peeks over the eastern hill
In the morning of silence
No man walks this valley
Though everybody has searched
For the blessings of the land
And life goes on forever
Drink from the spring
And eternity will possess you
And you will possess eternity
Let's set forth and find this valley
Do you believe that it exists
Believing is part of the power
And disbelief will bring you
To another, common valley
That everybody must walk
As long as we don't find the springs
If one was to find this valley
It would humble his soul
And boldness would fall away
In the supplication of hope
Though possessing eternity
The heart would settle in peace
Among the glades and springs
The labyrinth of life
The one we all walk
Ends somewhere in the distance
Find the valley and all is yours
