I went out for a fabulous night of classic disco on the Sunset Strip at Giorgio’s – a modern discotheque Saturday night presented by Bryan Rabin and DJ Adam Bravin. It’s a divine feeling to let loose and dance, as Martha Graham once said “Dancing is discovery, discovery, discovery.” There is no right or wrong way – it’s just about getting inside the music. Dancing to classic soulful disco definitely reminds me of my youth but not in a nostalgic trying to recapture a moment way – simply a reminder that in the now it’s still great to be active, dress up and appreciate quality music with messages that really transcend time – they just happen to have killer grooves..and live strings, and live horns and so much more.
This spirit fall right along with the theme of my forthcoming glamourous new single “Nightlife”, which will be followed with an EP of soulful quality dance-floor gems of which I’m still deciding on a name – maybe “Paradise” because that’s where the music takes me.
Even if you can’t get out – make some time to dance, even if it’s in your own living room!
Twirling in my maxi dress the motion captured on film. Photo: Jody Watley Music (c) 2013 via Jody Watley on Instagram
Jody Watley and clothing designer John Eshaya of JET Photo: Jody Watley Music (c) 2013 via Jody Watley on Instagram
Jody Watley, Christos Garkinos and make-up artist Kathy Jeung. Photo: Jody Watley (c) 2013 via Jody Watley on Instagram
Jody Watley and Kathy Jeung. Joyous in the music at Giorgios. Photo: Jody Watley via Instagram (c) 2013
Coming off a pair of collaborations with French Horn Rebellion (Cold Enough and Dancing Out), Jody Watley is once again working the dancefloor – Read full post: Popservations
With so much always being attention being given nearly everywhere we turn to obtaining money and wealth (and this country is off-balance – but that’s another post), who earns the most and so forth and reading that some people become depressed because of feeling inadequate based on earnings. I really like this from a book I have sitting, amongst meaning in my home called ‘Love Life‘ that I purchased and makes a terrific gift as well – even for yourself! I keep all types of inspirational messages revolving around the house. Of course, we all need money to live and survive, however – it’s not the be all end all and too many are corrupted and willing to do anything for it…not for happiness and personal peace, just in the obtaining of more money, more ‘things.’ Don’t overlook life’s special things that are often don’t come attached with a price tag and taken for granted..just a reminder.
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“I have never been a millionaire, but I have enjoyed a great meal, a crackling fire, a glorious sunset, a walk with a friend, a hug from a child, a cup of soup, a kiss behind the ear, there are plenty of life’s tiny delights for all of us.” – Jack Anthony
Written by Jody Watley (Jody Watley Music, BMI), Julien Aletti, Raphael Aletti (Aletti Brothers Music BMI) Produced by Count De Money for Peace Bisquit and Jody Watley.
Grammy winner Jody Watley, one of Pop/R&B and EDM’s most enduring and stylish trailblazers, returns with a shimmering dance floor classic inspired by both her well documented roots in disco funk soul and her love of the gilded era of dance and it’s legendary bastions of groove and fashion, from NYC’s Studio 54 to Paris’ Les Baines Douche with a sly nod to the underground dance style ‘Waacking.’ An authentic bonus are guest backing vocals from original Shalamar male lead Gerald Brown. Destined for international runways, dance floors and beyond, this party jam is irresistible from start to finish.
The name Jody Watley has been an integral part of music for over three decades, and it seems the Grammy award winning R&B/Dance music diva isn’t slowing down any time soon…Click HERE to read full review.
“Human mobile devices that may come in handy and can be used anywhere include: prayer, meditation, a good attitude, compassion, kindness, humor, laughter, patience, love and a smile. Customize to personal style and taste.” – Jody Watley
My trip to Washington D.C. had a few twists and turns, but ended in a tremendously well received standing room only crowd at The Howard Theatre. The concert was a perfect way to put the cap on my limited engagement summer series of concerts which included The Essence Festival in New Orleans.
Jody Watley, The Howard Theatre. Photo (c) 2013: Mark Sutphin
Jody Watley Live In Concert at The Howard Theatre. Photo (c) 2013: Jay Boucher
Jody Watley LIVE at The Howard Theatre. Photo (c) 2013 DARRICK
Jody Watley by Larry Webb (c) 2013 via Facebook
With an appearance on Washington D.C.’s Fox 5 Morning Television (almost ruined by a driver that didn’t show up causing me to be late and miss my first time slot – and a last minute save by another company and driver – Uber!), all was well in the end; but I don’t like to be late and felt bad though it was out our control. In those times, we have to just roll with it, make adjustments; the ole’ keep calm and carry on mantra!
Jody Watley with Allison Seymour from Fox 5 WTTG Morning News. Photo Jody Watley Music (c) 2013
Hmmm…
Though I had many problems with my feature in The Washington Post; among them -being referred to as ’80’s starlet’ ‘”Starlet?” I found it a bit demeaning. My continued artistic progression as an artist, songwriter and producer is consistent. I’ve remained on the charts whenever I’ve released music, though I moved away from Pop/R&B crossover a long time ago. I’m not looking for a new groove, rather continuing to make fresh grooves after decades in this business. Having had success in each decade with high charting singles is something I’m very proud of. It isn’t easy for artists to have hits, one, two, (or any for that matter) in any era. To make an initial major impact on my first two albums as a trendsetting pioneer in many aspects and then to continue on spanning decades in various genres and primarily in dance music should be notable not disposable or completely ignored. References to my looking for a ‘comeback’ didn’t come from my mouth – I despise that term, especially since it’s not fitting for me. While we’re at it, I also don’t like the term “old school”, though thankfully not included in the article. Classic, just like they refer to rock and roll – black music and artists should be given the same respect over time not relegated to some throwback nostalgia tag; unless it’s what is requested or marketed purposefully.
I’ve never left music, even with raising my children and taking time to live my life. I’m not looking for a comeback in today’s pop music climate. My next single ‘NIGHTLIFE’ is simply another step in my musical journey and evolution as a working artist. Neither am I looking for a new groove beyond a continued progression and a desire to write and release quality music while I’m still making it. The overall tone of the article was very marginalizing and reminded me why I don’t like doing interviews. A lack of homework on really knowing the subject beforehand goes a long way. I’ve learned most come with an already formed preconceived notion. Many of my fans felt the same way and posted as such under the link to the article on my Facebook page and felt that props nor respect weren’t given – rather lumping me in general terms of ‘the 80’s’ when I’m so not that – not stuck there and have continued to have success. The writer also insinuated my embrace of social media was confirmation that I was looking for a ‘comeback’, when in fact I’m just like any other savvy artist young or legacy music artist who embraces the times and appreciates the forum to connect and build the Jody Watley fan community. It’s my observation that when writing about rock stars no matter when they started or how old they are now, more reverence is given. It’s like someone taking your resume, not reading it and assuming who you are or labeling you something that you doesn’t represent what you’re about. Ironically, I read a post from author Paulo Coelho titled “Why I’m not giving that many interviews.” Paulo chooses to use his presence on social media to promote his work and tell his story.
OK, that off my chest – I’m not mad at the full page, that was earned in a solo career at 30 years now. We must always take every experience and learn from it. There’s a lesson in everything even if we can’t see it at the time. Seeing and reading the article online was one thing – however it was another deal to see it and be reminded of the traditional newspaper weekend edition – can’t be too grouchy about that. I just wish the young writer had really written a piece that brought people up to speed while considering the need to condense information reflecting some semblance of who I am as a a progressive artist and writer continuing to do things on her own terms -given the high profile nature of the piece – even if conveyed in a sentence or two.
No matter what – I’m grateful to still be here at a high level, doing what I love for my corner of the universe with a healthy mind, body and spirit – bringing joy to the people who support me through my artistry, growth and evolution.
I went out for a fabulous night of classic disco on the Sunset Strip at Giorgio’s – a modern discotheque Saturday night presented by Bryan Rabin and DJ Adam Bravin. It’s a divine feeling to let loose and dance, as Martha Graham once said “Dancing is discovery, discovery, discovery.” There is no right or wrong way – it’s just about getting inside the music. Dancing to classic soulful disco definitely reminds me of my youth but not in a nostalgic trying to recapture a moment way – simply a reminder that in the now it’s still great to be active, dress up and appreciate quality music with messages that really transcend time – they just happen to have killer grooves..and live strings, and live horns and so much more.
