.. and the toxic shady ones too. Get your circle right.
Society gets people so messed up in many ways, especially now with the flip side of the positives that can come from social media and the media in general.
Not that I’m a shamen in any way – but sometimes it’s good to know we can all in some way potentially inspire another human being in a positive way. Don’t compare yourself to anyone- love yourself. Many will doubt you – just don’t let the doubter be “you” and don’t try to live someone else’s life.
This is what I shared on my platforms today.
“Be who you are- but know that it will change as you grow through life, don’t be afraid of that – your essence should always remain though no matter the changes of styles, age, and era.I always see “me” – always see “you” –No matter what your profession there will always be forces to try to move you away from you – hold on to yourself.” – Jody Watley – Wattage ⚡️
Image via Instagram/jodywatleystyle and Jody Watley.
1993 A modern day Mona Lisa – Exclusively from Jody Watley’s archives – An unpublished Polaroid of Jody Watley taken for US Weekly photographed by Jon Ragel, hair by Jody Watley, make up by Collier Strong, styling by Jody Watley and Jeannine Braden. @jodywatley @usweekly @jonragel @collierstrong @jeanninebradenla
” I don’t need the Approval from those that don’t approve of me” –
George Michael
George Michael – Jody Watley. 1987. Image is Subject to Copyright. (c) 1987 Jody Watley
Rolling Stone Magazine, 1991 George Michael, Jody Watley (by this time we shared the same manager at the behest of George) and legendary songwriter Bernie Taupin.
When trying to get a solo deal in the U.S. after leaving the group Shalamar in 1983 each meeting I went in with a plan, who I wanted to collaborate with, demo’s, what my vision was .. no ones ingenue.
I told them George Michael was on board to do a duet with me..certain execs scoffed – didn’t believe it, pop superstar of Wham already agrees to do a song with you and you’re unsigned – ok yeah right was the tone. I’d asked George at Band Aid “Do They Know It’s Christmas” if I ever got a solo deal would he do a duet with me because that day he told me how much he loved my voice – I gushed how big of a fan I was of Wham – and loved his voice too- we kept in touch speaking on the phone often – George said yes and kept his word when it happened which said a lot about him,he’d become an even bigger superstar but was still down with what he’d agreed to several years before.
Centerfold Band Aid Special Edition Magazine. The historic single “Do They Know It’s Christmas” Band Aid.
The song “Learn To Say No” was produced by Bernard Edwards (Chic, Power Station) – this photo is from that session considered one of his great collaborations, it was fun, I’m honored to be amongst his work. It was a single because his lable said no.. industry politics — spent most of Christmas day offline present w family enjoying the day…deeply sad and shocked to see news about George Michael – another great one gone too soon- couldn’t /can’t believe it – reading it is surreal. I’m deeply saddened and really just like -wow 2016 not another one — nice man, gifted singer, songwriter, producer – as well he stepped out against the changing climate in major label culture when CBS became Sony and he felt under supported by the new regime. As an artist also seeing the changing infrastructure of labels (my label MCA became Universal Music Group) – George was on the front lines. Losing the case – he had to pay a whopping 40 million dollars to get his release. That’s a lot to recover from while wanting to push an artistic vision while fighting for respect, and trying to overcome the ‘ole boys network’ that runs this industry. For more on that read: here
..glad to have known and worked with him. I too remained a massive fan and was looking forward to whatever he created next and his triumph of personal and health woes. Prayers to his family, friends and fans who all loved him so much. His stellar music will live on. The media as it does, often exploited his tribulations in recent years with less attention on the great artist, songwriter, producer he was. I believe he wrote the classic ‘Careless Whisper’ at 17..17. When Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 was released – one of my favorites..no sexy photo, wanting to remove himself from videos and the expectations of the past..it resonated with me then and now. His boldness is undervalued. Artistry.
Life is precious – cherish each day and those you love. Don’t waste it on how others think you should live it, each of us has our own journey, fulfill your dreams, make new memories, laugh, love, spread kindness and joy – it’s not the years of life but life in the years. Love to all.
George Michael Greatest Collaborations:
https://www.yahoo.com/music/hes-your-man-george-michaels-greatest-collaborations-043054563.html
Never let anyone dim your sparkle or shine. Leave some of it everywhere you go! -Jody Watley
We never know what each day will bring as we put our best foot forward. Don’t stress over what you can’t control. With the hateful and divisive nature of the election, the results and the aftermath..in a current climate that the doors have been opened wider for those with hate in their hearts..don’t be that person. Like I sang ‘It All Begins With You’ and wrote ‘The Beat Don’t Stop’ ‘Bed of Roses..get up get out..be strong..” Be diligent, alert and safe in your surroundings but we all have to keep living life no matter the obstacles and potential barriers. Look out for your neighbors that might not look like you. Let’s all do our part to put love into the universe.
This is true. I seem to be the target of this very fact..as I continue forward the way I choose.
This spoke to me..so I’m sharing because I always feel like it may inspire someone elese too. Love to all! Be strong, be resilient – never let people and situations break your spirit.
Listen to your life – go with it and never feel bad about your choices when it is for your growth personally and professionally.