Music IS Therapeutic
The good news ... we improve our health when listening to music. Listening to music is expansive, and a win-win open play connection. Fact.What else changes(?):
lowered respiration, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiac output, reduced heart rate, relaxed muscle and mental tension. There is always more music ... enjoy listening to Crystal's music playlists on Soundcloud and Rhythm Channel One on YouTube.
Writer, producer, and smooth jazz guitar royalty Peter White joined us during a taping of Body Vibes. He shared with us his inspiration as a musicmaker and how his being a naturally happy person inspires his musicianship. Peter arrived with his guitar, and though unplanned - we amped him up and he played his guitar live with the song while Body Vibes dancer Ana Maria Carrasco danced. During that taping everyone had a few goosebumps ... our lighting tech Cupcake created a jazzy ambiance, camermaman and director Andre Alporter captured the vibe with his eye for splits and zooms, oh it was special. More footage from the shoot to come. Forever love and thanks to Peter for bringing his guitar and sharing his musical mastery and signature sound "live" as well as treating up to a few special original arrangements inspired by the ambiance in the studio. The music: Reveillez-Vous, an uptempo smooth jazz favorite from Peter's 1990 Reveillez-Vous album.
Crystal's Tribute ... Remembering The Prince
Media & Entertainment
Photojournalism Gallery
The Rap, Rhythm & Reggae production crew. Rap, Rhythm & Reggae was my music video show that features urban music and dancing. The latest videos combined with dance segments. Body Vibes, and ColorSoundandSoul were signature interstitial dance segments I created and produced to be featured in the video programs I was producing. I wrote a treatmentand presented to producer/directors
Candace Jones-Sutton and Andre Alporter, then management at the South Central Los Angeles cable television studio. I began producing community television programming shortly thereafter and over the next four years I produced five local origination programs that aired on Continental Cable Channel 28 from 1990 and 1991, and on leased-access Channel 31 from 1992 to 1994. I was mentored by network television director Chuck Vinson, news producer, director and editor
Andre Alporter, emmy-nominated news director Candace Sutton, and producer and DJ Theo Mizuhara, producer, sound editor and DJ George Moore and Aundrae Russell, producer and host of KJLH's "Spread the Word."
Songstress and musical mentor Ms. Nancy Wilson.I began singing this song in 1963 ... I was 6, Nancy Wilson knew my mother, was a fan of The Moulin Rouge dancers,
and Nancy came to our home for Thanksgiving dinner once ... my mother adored her, and made me stop singing Martha & the Vandellas, and start singing jazz, particularly Nancy Wilson music, to develop smooth register fluctuation with control, and her favorite tune was Guess Who I Saw Today. Over and over ... and over ... thank you Nancy for the lessons I learned about singing, listening to you. You are loved.
Presenting Nancy Wilson with a Communique Talk Show Excellence In Music Award
PRE-SHOW MEETUP: Joined actress, writer and natural skin and hair product guru Bianca Taylor for a quick meetup with two-time Obie winner and Tony-nominated actress, playwright, and producer Charlayne Woodard
at the Kirk Douglas Theater in Culver City, CA, before her glorious performance in THE NIGHT WATCHER.
Author and Communique co-producer Diana Sherer with program guests attorney Denise Speaks and Los Angeles professional sports agent Michael Trope, agent to over 200 NFL players during his career.
Diana is also a former Soul Train Dancer, who published her first book, World Champions Only in 2019.
World Champions Only takes us on an intimate journey into the sport of boxing. Personal stories of world champion athletes, the shrewd negotiations, and the behind the scene deals that make thisboxing a multi-million-dollar business.(Five-star rated.)
Cutting it up with the dancers on Rap, Rhythm & Reggae Video, my weekly music video show that featured dancing, interviews and music videos.
I noticed the older dancers' interest in being on camera, and I handed the mic over to them
... they wanted to be "VJ's" - so be it. I gladly let them get their feet wet by coaching them on how to introduce music videos, and get their first exposure to the television production process. Each one, teach one.
Coaching our aspiring VJ's ... their friends saw them on the show, which was a BIG confidence booster and source of inspiration to pursue their interests in television production.
Caught up with the always inspiring comedian, actor, and talk show host (and long-time Soul Train fan) George Lopez
at a Lakers Game. When not acting, hosting and making us laugh, George's Foundation is actively
creating positive, permanent change for underprivileged children, adults and,
military families confronting challenges in education and health.
Soul Train starletArlene Cabeza. Arlene is a decades-long bestie and sister, and a sharp cookie. Business manager, legal manager, and entertainment law guru, Arlene is currently co-producer and project manager for the autobiographical film, The Life Story of Sly Stone.
A May 2022 rework of my originalPrince Tribute video published May 16, 2016. The music, messaging, dancing, vision, and his engaging skills as a performer are everlasting. Indeed. Love Always.
Los Angeles entertainment event promoter, producer, and entrepreneur Felipe Darrell.
The Color Purple: The Tony & Grammy award winning 2015 revival of The Color Purple came to the Hollywood Pantages. Enjoyed it with my sistah, actress Bianca Taylor.
The cast of this tour were phenomenal!
I had the pleasure of meeting one of the best singers in the biz, John "Jon Jon" Harreld of the
chart-topping recording group Troop, at a talent showcase and awards event produced by Brandy Sanders.
Brandy is the founder of NuSkoolSingsOldSkool, a non-profit committed to making a difference in the lives of youth
through the power of music and the arts. A diverse and very talented lineup of young singers, dancers, models and musicians
performed to standing ovations. Outstanding show for a GREAT cause!
Communique host, former counsel for USC, attorney Denise Speaks with Communique guest,
former Big East Conference Player of the Year, Charles Smith.
With television production mentors (left), network television director Chuck R. Vinson, and network television executive Lester Crystal (right).
I learned most of what I know about producing and directing for television from my mentor Chuck Vinson." I began producing television programming for leased-acces cable in 1990. I studied studio and field production, editing, and directing as part of a Los Angeles Department of Telecommunications grant program.
Chuck Vinson began his career as a stage manager for network television programs including: Detective School, Benson, and The Cosby Show, going on to become a director of the show ("Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,") co-directed by Carl Lauten. Chuck's other network television directing credits include the sitcoms:Martin, Thea, The Sinbad Show, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Sister, Sister, Living Single, One World and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch. Chuck directed a number of stand-up comedy specials for Sinbad, Steve Harvey, Mark Curry, and Jamie Foxx, as well as numerous episodes from the comedy series Last Comic Standing.
Communique Talk Show host Denise Speaks, our floor manager Shirley, and production manager Apryle Vaughn.
ABC Newscaster Angela Black. Angela was a Los Angeles newscaster for over a decade.
GOOD TIMES: Rap, Rhythm & Reggae Video
Crystal's harmony arrangements ... Michael Jackson's beautifully orchestrated production of the classic song "Smile."
NFL football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson and his bay-bro Leo. During Eric's NFL career,
he rushed for over 13,000 yards, and holds the NFL's single-season rushing record set in 1984.
Eric was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
In 2019 he was named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.
Body Vibes dancer Justina Jupiter at the 1989 Soul Train Awards.
Justina was featured dancer on ColorSoundandSoul.
THERE ARE MANY SHADES OF LOVE ... my harmony cover of the song Back In Time
recorded by award-winning South Korean singer https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5550788/>Lyn.Back In Time
is a wonderfully written, cast, directed and award-winning series ... a historical-fantasy drama adapted from the
novel of the same name written by June Eun-gwol, which was the theme song
for the 2012 South Korean television drama series. The soundtrack is also award-winning ... after watching the series twice, I was hearing the song and Lyn's voice in my sleep thus, I became one with it. MORE about series:
USC's Third Heisman Trophy winner Charles White. A two-year unanimous All-American, White set (or equaled) 22 NCAA, Pac-10, USC and Rose Bowl records
L.A. event producers Artris Leftage and partner Larry M, guests on Communique Talk Show.
With the beautiful Los Angeles public relations executive Eugenia Wright and event photographer Agnes Ferguson.
LOVELY VOICES ...enjoyed seeing my sister in music Rhea Weng perform with The Athenas Choirat the Los Angeles Athletic Club Summer Benefit Concert.
Mapping out the next scene with my assistant producers.
Communique guests, my mentor EUR Webmedia founder Lee Bailey, and news producer Mike Mosby.
MUSIC PROMOTION: We partnered with record companies, promoted the vids on the programs; hosted weekly artist and music promotion interviews at Los Angeles social mecca Paradise 24 in the 90s. Producer and label liaison Apryle Vaughn helped Video Starbox gain the support of L.A. major and indie
labels.
Soundcloud Music Collaboration: Streaming services such as Soundcloud are connectors - talent hubs. Listen and connect ... music, musicians, producers, voices, tracks. This collaboration demo features collaboration with Germany-based songwriter/producer Sebastian Wahle of So Do We Create Productions.
A GOOD PARTY BRINGS OUT THE CHEDDA ... Hefner's Mid-Summer's Night Affair was star-studded,
ultra cool ... star-studded ... musical and theatrical icons partying in PJs! I was able to connect with
with genius pianist, composer and mega producer Herbie Hancock.
Cuttin' up with members of The RAMA Band at rehearsal in Japan.
Model, media and entertainment producer Paula Bond.
CEO and lead designer at LSO Designs, Linda Stokes visited Communique to chat about her journey to success as a celebrated fashion designer of A-list couture and her A-list of clients worldwide including Janet Jackson, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Sade, Gwen Stefani and so many more. Linda Stokes Originals are regularly seen on the red carpet at the Grammy's, Oscars, and Academy Awards.
Had to hit up a Dre track ...my cover of Dre's melodious classic The Message.
Pro football legend, sports analyst writer and actor Jim Brown
joined me on Communique to discuss his book Out of Bounds,
(1989, Canadian Books). Brown, who in his heyday finished 5th in Heisman Trophy
voting is widely considered to be "of the greatest professional athletes in the history of the U.S." He hosted many star-studded,
boogie-down parties at his fabulous home high up in the hills of Hollywood. I'll not forget the view of Los Angeles from the window walls throughout the property which is atop a mountain ... of the best views available in the City.
Bianca Taylor, a gifted and creatie thinker, writer and actress. "B" starred on General Hospital for 9 years, before settling down to raise a family with her husband
actor Meshach Taylor. Bianca is the mind behind Bianca's Botanicals, a line of safe,
cruelty-free, skin and hair products. Her line was a first providing fragrance-free products for the skin, and hair, including braids, locks and twists.
Harmonies arrangements with Luther ... Anyone Who Had A Heart
Actress, producer and model Sheila Frazier.
Who can forget this Diva's performance in SuperFly!
I caught up with 2017 Woman of Achievement Award recipient Jacqueline Norvell - founder of brownbaglady.org and her family shopping at The Grove LA
The Canadian Club Modeling Troupe, I toured with the show two years!
Celebrating with friends at the birthday party of of songwriter, "keys master" and producer Ralph Hawkins, Jr. - Ralph co-produced and arranged Redlight with Eddie Murphy and Snoop.
The msharmonictouch cover of that beautiful smooth jazz original "I Can Only Dream ... composed by a genius of baking feeling into music ... Michael E. Video edit: C. McCarey.
(1) Communique program guests restauranteur Stephen Perry of Stevie's on the Strip,
(2) Diana Hicks with Communique guests Blair Underwood and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs
(3) music executive Ian Davis with Side Effect producer Auggie Johnson
Magic Johnson ... legendary Los Angeles Laker, and
business entrepreneur at a Soul Train awards after party in the 80s.
Pop, jazz, adult contemporary and R&B recording artist Ms. Vesta Williams
visited Communique, and we got to hear her four octave vocal range LIVE ... what a voice!
We spoke about a lot of topics, including the golden rule of singing live ..."Know thy mic."
"Singing is a fine artistry where tone and blend contribute to the sweet spot,
the unique sound one's voice alone can own," and a BIG part of that is the microphone.
Engineers and producers typically make the mic decision, but not with Vesta Williams.
She said she walked into many a session with her own mic, to keep from having to
sing a song ten times while an engineer keeps adjusting settings. She said she learned
early on the importance of "knowing thy mic." Spoken like a true PRO.
Music promoter Douggie D
Video Starbox host Elan Carter with actor and
model Michael Bacon. Elan is a former Playboy Playmate of the Year and an American Beauty model.
Michael Bacon was a series regular in the cast of the TV show VR Troopers. Legendary, renowned jazz DIVA Supreme Barbara Morrison.
L.A. Raiders team members joined host Denise Speaks as guests on Communique
Spread The Word is a weekly gospel radio show produced and hosted on KJLH Raidio by Aundrae Russell. Andre, (right) was a panel moderator and co-producer of Community Issues Symposium, a program developed to calm
the South Central community following the violence sparked by the Rodney King tragedy.
Network television writer, producer and director Ralph Farquhar.
Actress and philanthropist Marla Gibbs reviewing notes before she spoke at Community Issues Symposium.
I produced this community outreach program to bring community leaders together to address the violence that
followed of the Rodney King police brutality tragedy.
Operation Hope Chairman John Bryant speaking on Community Issues Symposium.
Would you like to be a guest on RCO Radio ... Email Crystal
Youth activist and gang intervention activist and lecturer Mike Concepcion
My gorgeous Mom inspired me to want to dance ... watching her and her beautiful friends rehearsing left an indellible
impression on me at a young age so no surprise I wanted to be just like her ... what are the chances fate would allow me to land
on Soul Train - televised nationally by the time I got there - and she would be able to tune in and watch me dance every week for over a decade.
PUBLIC RELATIONS: Professional PR executives Pat Tobin, and Modena Moore were guests on Communique Talk Show.
Interviewing Eric Dickerson for Sports & Entertainment Television
Bodybuilding duo, twins Cleon and Leon, regular trainers at Venice Beach, California.
Swedish producer Ludvig Cimbrelius has been developing a catalog of beautifully expressive electronic compositions and sonic textures
for over a decade expressed through a legion of aliases. Cimbrelius' signature blends of percussions and sounds are masterful; he's amassed a solid, prime time discography. I caught up with him at his sold-out performance at Corazon Performing Arts in Topanga Canyon. What a gifted and especially intuitive producer he is.
We were gifted to hear him perform (by surprise) an arrangement from his work (recent at the time) with producer Luis Miehlich on the tune "Sometimes I Hear Your Voice." I'll never forget the heavenly vibes nor the spiritual embrace in the acoustics he filled the room with ... how magically Ludvig works, melding sound with emotion. Inspired. For life.
I
Have you heard Crystal's harmony arrangement cover of this classic golden oldie released in 1963.
Crystal started singing this song when she was 7.
Friends Kevin Sims, Monique La Rocha and actress Regina Brown, author of Rise! Tao Of The Diva.
ATL producer Evan Connor.
Jazz guitar royalty, Peter White was an in-studio guest on Video Starbox featuring Body Vibes,
and what a fun shoot it was. He got to meet the Body Vibes dancers, and Ana Maria Carrasco danced live while he
played his guitar live to his music. Talk about jazzed! Such an amazing talent. I have followed Peter White's music 25+ years, and he was a most kind and gracious guest. Whenever
he's performing in LA we
merrily trek to the destination, whether it be 5 miles - or 50!
I met Jada Pinkett long before she was Pinkett-Smith, and she's still as down to earth today a
as she was before her ascendance to being a successful actress, producer, and screenwriter.
Jada is the host of Red Table Talk.
Photo highlights from the Soul Train Friends & Family Picnic
Since 2014 Soul Train dancers Juliette Hagerman and Nellie Gonzales have produced an annual picnic to bring Soul Train dancers together and celebrate the memories and the show's popularity and success.
Communique host Diana Sherer with guests Michael & Erin Stinnis. Stinnis' father William Stinnis founded the Golden Bird Chicken franchise.
Michael was also the first African American to start at quarterback for the University of Hawaii.
With 92.3 The Beat DJ and on-air personality Theo Mizuhara.
Theo was the creative mind behind the highly successful No Color Lines music promotion campaign in the mid-90s.
I wrote this song to process the untimely transition of my cousin Frank Alexander.
Frank was a Marine, a Sheriff, a premiere bodybuilder, dedicated Dad and husband and he was Tupac Shakur's personal bodyguard at the time of his death. Frank loved Pac, and Pac respected and trusted Frank. Frank's account of what he believed happened to his client, brother, and friend was very troubling. So much so, he couldn't live with it.
Auntie Elvie.
Actress/model/singer Freda Payne
Recording group Domino Theory
My dear, wonderful cousin Nigeria.
Producer, songwriter Darren Sullivan aka DLavance
L.A. music and entertainment promoter Felipe Darrell
Ricky Bell, a founding member of New Edition
