Happy New Year from Buddy Beaverhausen and Mae West!

From her groovy 1966 holiday album, Wild Christmas (re-released as Mae in December), comes this incredible track submitted for your approval from the Twilight Zone: "Mae West's My New Year's Resolutions." Have you made yours?

Happy New Year to everyone from Dj Buddy Beaverhausen! From the US to all over the globe, I wish you a joyous 2014. Oh, and, uh, come up and see me some time.

Edie Beale: Live at Reno Sweeney at 54 Below

It was very appropriate that Jeffrey Johnson performed his recreation of Little Edie's 1978 stage show at Reno Sweeney, as New Year's Eve neared, in the swank, subterranean cabaret trappings beneath the old Studio 54 in Manhattan, with its disco party ghosts, to a packed house.

I attended the 1978 show at the now-legendary West Village cabaret (I was but a child at the time; my mother took me) and saw the real Edith Beale perform. I distinctly recall the cruel derision she received from her audience at the time; not at all like the climactic, upbeat apotheosis at the end of the HBO movie version of Grey Gardens.

Mr Johnson's theatrical channeling of Edie might best be described as campy but very much inexact.

For one thing, the show is largely filled with frequently fact-based but often speculative monologues about Edie's life in long, tragi-comic rectitals. In the real deal, the rather shy performer nervously went from song to song without much patter.

It was my privilege to sit with Jerry, the Marble Faun of the original documentary movie, Grey Gardens, at the show. Speaking to him afterwards, Jerry Torre told me he found the evening to be "fun" and a "nice tribute to the memory of Edie" and that he felt Johnson did a good job of "keeping Edie's spirit alive."

The real Beale deal

"I'm going to sing a song Mother hated," Jeffrey-as-Edie announced before tackling "Lili Marlene." The song list for this show included "Tea for Two," "As Time Goes By" and "Auld Lang Syne." (I recall Edie opening her act in '78 with "Don't Throw Bouquets at Me.")

There was a periodic and off-stage Q&A read to Edie from index cards that had been distributed to the crowd prior to the show. Jeffrey Johnson's replies were often clever and funny, displaying his improvisational skills and his ability to think on his open-toe heels.

Johnson's characterization of Little Edie was more bold and strident than the real-life demure socialite on whom it is based. Edie certainly did not break down onstage discussing the Grey Gardens estate. And Johnson's voice and accent failed to satisfy even if the patrician lingo sounded spot on.

In short, if you're simply looking for an evening of camp pleasure and some laughs, you might enjoy this act. If, however, you want something more in the way of verisimilitude, this may might not be your cup of tea for two.

L to R: Dj Buddy Beaverhausen, Richard Skipper, Jerry Torre (The Marble Faun)

Love to Love You: Happy Birthday, Donna Summer!

Just a few days after my own birthday in 2012, diva Donna Summer died. It was a shock to the public, who didn't know she was ill, and even her friends in the industry. Producer Bob Esty told me in an interview that he had no idea she had a terminal illness until he heard the news of her passing.

Other divas remembered Donna fondly. Gloria Gaynor called Ms Summer "a fine lady and human being," and said she was devastated by the news that her fellow disco-era songstress had succumbed to lung cancer. Cher exclaimed, "She was exquisite!" and that "I remember 'Last Dance' ended my nights at Studio 54! By that song, I was drenched! Hair too!" Liza said Donna was "The Queen of Disco, and we will be dancing to her music forever." Barbra recalled, "I loved doing the duet with her [No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)]. She had an amazing voice and was so talented." And Dolly Parton told the press that Donna had "one of the greatest voices ever. I loved her records. She was the disco queen and will remain so. I knew her and found her to be one of the most likable and fun people ever."

New Year's Eve day (December 31) is Donna Summer's birthday. She was born LaDonna Adrian Gaines in Boston Massachusetts. She performed in the German production of Hair, where she married and divorced Helmut Summer, keeping his name and moving on to become a major recording artist during the disco era of the '70s and continuing to have an outstanding career spanning four decades. She won five Grammys, was the first artist who charted #1 on the US Billboard with three consecutive double-albums and sold over 150 million records worldwide. Along with her producers Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte, she went on to pioneer electronica with songs like "I Feel Love" and "Love to Love You, Baby." She was a defining voice of dance music and it is her voice we will always love and remember her by, and which is missed.

Donna was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year. It's a new year and we wish a Happy Birthday from Dj Buddy Beaverhausen and his readers, Donna, wherever you are!

Justice Sotomayor Drops the Ball

It was announced today that one of the Supremes will officially drop the ball in Times Square on New Year's Rockin' Eve!

Appointed to the Court in 2009 by President Obama, Justice Sonia Sotomayor from the Bronx will officially ring in 2014 in New York City.

Huffington Post tells us: "The giant New Year's Eve ball is covered in more than 2,600 crystal triangles and lit from within by more than 32,000 lights." And Sonia Sotomayor's going to push the button.

From The Official Site of Times Square: "For 109 years, Times Square has been the center of worldwide attention on New Year's Eve, ever since the owners of One Times Square began in 1904 to conduct rooftop celebrations to greet the New Year. The first Ball Lowering celebration occurred in 1907, and this tradition is now a universal symbol of welcoming the New Year.

"The official event lineup features live performances by Miley Cyrus, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Blondie, Icona Pop, Jencarlos Canela, El Dasa and Rodney Atkins. Melissa Etheridge will perform her new song, Uprising of Love, and a rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine during the 2014 Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration. A spectacular Chinese cultural performance featuring Kung Fu and a colorful fan dance will kick off the festivities at 6 p.m. EST."

Sounds like a great way, New York, to ring in 2014. We're psyched!

Happy Birthday, Martha Wash: My Exclusive Q&A

Queens Our City Radio Exclusive Q&A with the One & Only Martha Wash

Happy Birthday, Martha! This interview originally appeared at Queens Our City Radio and on Blab It to Beaverhausen on December 5. 

Martha Wash is truly one of our legendary divas of dance music and, in my opinion, one of our finest female vocalists. In my exclusive Q&A with Ms Wash, she discusses her career, her new single ("It's My Time"), her latest album, Something Good (which is amazing) and much more.

 
Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Hello, Ms Wash, and thank you for talking to me and everyone out here at Our City Radio. How was your Thanksgiving?

Martha Wash: Thank you very much for having me. My Thanksgiving was fine. I just relaxed the whole day. Texted my family and friends.

DBB: I mostly want to talk about your latest album, Something Good, which has been one of my faves of the year and is so inspirational. It's perfect music for the holiday season. But first, I've always been curious as to your work with Sylvester. Specifically, did you know Izora Rhodes beforehand or were you first put together as Two Tons of Fun?

MW: Izora and I used to sing in a gospel group called N.O.W. Singers (News of the World). We also sang in different community choirs that would have musicals together. I brought her in to audition for Sylvester when he wanted another large singer.

 
DBB: How does it feel to be a true survivor? To have sung through decades of music (mostly dance) as a solo artist and the voice of The Weather Girls, C&C Music Factory, Black Box, etc.?

MW: I'm just thankful that I'm still here to be able to perform for people and that they still enjoy hearing me. I'm amazed that it's been so many years. Time goes by really quickly.

 
DBB: Isn't that the truth? Martha, I think most people reading the Our City internet network will agree you are one of the great, influential voices throughout our lives. Was there ever a low point for you that you felt you'd quit the business and maybe do something else?

MW: I thought about quitting a few times over the decades. When I thought about what I would do in its place, I couldn't really come up with anything, so here I am still singing!

DBB: Something Good is well titled. Whose idea was it to name the album?

MW: My manager (James Washington) and I were going back and forth between Something Good and It's My Time. I liked both titles. We decided on Something Good because it encompasses all the songs on the album. Each song is something good.

DBB:Yes, every tack! On this album, you do an amazing job covering Aerosmith's "Dream On," the penultimate track. Now, I wouldn't ordinarily think of you doing this song, yet you do a boffo job of it! How did this all come about for you?

MW: James said I needed to record a cover song. I didn't want to necessarily. He started looking into some classic songs and came up with "Dream On." I knew the song and had liked it so I said okay, let's try it. I think it came out pretty good. We wanted to remain true to the song, but put my twist to it. 


DBB: "Pretty good" is an understatement in my opinion. Is there any song on Something Good that was particularly personal for you? And why was that?

MW: No, there's no particular one. Within all of these songs, at different points in my life I've experienced the good, bad, hope, disillusion, faith, loss, love, acceptance. I'm sure a lot of people who listen to the album could identify.

 
DBB:"It's My Time" actually brings tears to my eyes because it's so edifying and close to my heart. Plus it has a dancefloor touch to it. Might we ever hear mixes of this one?

MW: We have released remixes of "It's My Time" produced by DJ's Papercha$ers. Great mixes that everyone should check out. Everybody wanted remixes of the songs, so we're doing them a little at a time. They'll be more in 2014.

 
DBB: Martha, what music influenced you growing up?

MW: I grew up listening to gospel music only. That was the only music allowed in my house. When I became a teenager, I had a small radio that I would put under my pillow and listen to rock groups and the Motown artists. Aretha Franklin was my #1 favorite. 

DBB: Any shout-outs to your LGBT fans at Queens Our City Radio and my Blab It to Beaverhausen blog?

MW: I'd just like to thank them all for supporting me over the years and that I love them all. It's great to know that we're all still here!

DBB: You probably won't remember this, but we shared an awkward moment after your performance at BB King's NYC. You agreed to a pic of my kissing you on the cheek but my friend had issues getting my cell to take the photos. Consequently, my lips were on your cheek uncomfortably long. You called out, very diva-like: "work it!" And he did! How do you put up with fans like us?

MW: [Laughs] It doesn't bother me. It's part of the job. I don't have a problem meeting my fans, I welcome it. As long as everyone is respectful of each other, I'm fine.

DBB: Ms Wash, we wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and much more music to come from one of the great singers of our times. We are so grateful to your doing this Q&A. Any last words you'd like to add?

MW: I'd just like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous, loving, blessed New Year. I'm asking my fans to support me again with this album, Something Good, and the "It's My Time" Remixes by going to Amazon, ITunes and CdBaby. Indie Artists need all the support they can get. Hit me up on Facebook at www.themarthawash.com or @Martha_Wash on Twitter and let me know what you think. Thanks so much again for this time.

 
Below, the official "It's My Time" video:

 

Beyond the Red Carpet and Velvet Ropes at ICON!

ICON

Icon opened up to a packed house with boys ~ and girls ~ lined up outside the velvet ropes in the clear but chilly New York City Saturday night. Nick Lion and Chris P did not disappoint with this classy Astoria venue that brought flare back to New York nightlife on 33rd St. off Broadway, just a few stops on the N train out of Manhattan.

I was greeted warmly by Nick shortly after I stepped into the club that has a sexy, red palette and Marilyn images galore. Marilyn even graced the door to the ladies' room (with James Dean denoting the men's room).

This was the first time the Icon club owner and I met in person, and there were hugs and smooches and good conversation as if we've known each other for years.

Ladies Room

The debonaire Mr Lion with champagne bar bartender

Nick said some very kind and touching things to me, personally, then took me by the hand (so we weren't separated on our way through the throng) to the champagne bar, where we toasted with a bit of the bubbly. The entire staff was polite and accommodating, from the doormen to the waiters. And they were, without exception, cute to boot!

True to his vision, there were no video screens or other media distractions in the club and people were indeed there to see and to be seen.

Classic disco played early in the night and I was won over as soon as I set foot in Icon and heard Dj Amoroso spinning the original Loleatta Holloway-Dan Hartman "Relight My Fire."

The crowd inside ICON

I entered, feeling refreshed after a disco nap at home and a long subway ride in from Bay Ridge, Brooklyn to Astoria, Queens, nursing a 16-oz. coffee. I attempted "glam casual" look with leopard-skin shirt, black vest, jeans and dress shoes.  Nick showed me the coat check where I quickly doffed my black leather coat and my scarf. The packed house was generating a lot of body heat.

TAZER

Also making the temperature rise indoors was Tazer, a go-go dancer at Icon, who gave me his business card. The tall, dark and handsome stranger also works as a masseuse and makes house calls. Come to think of it, I have been feeling kind of stiff lately and may need to be Tazered!

I also met the evening's hosts: Laritza Dumont and Sherry Vine, two very sweet and gracious performers and NYC LGBT icons in their own right. I told Sherry I first saw her at an early gig in the East Village, at the now long-defunct bar, Dick's. Sherry was singing Joni Mitchell songs with a guitar accompanist that night.

"Oh, my God!" Sherry exclaimed. "I remember that night so vividly. I don't remember what I ate for lunch today but I remember that night!" Short-term memory loss ~ ah, I can relate all too well!

The fabulous Laritza Dumont at ICON

I also mentioned to Sherry that one of the most amazing things I ever saw onstage was when she assayed the title role in a stage version of "Carrie" off-off-Broadway at PS 122 in the East Village. The f/x, on a shoestring budget were clever, funny & effective. I told her it was so much better than the much larger-budgeted "Carrie: the Musical" at the Lucille Lortel Theatre earlier this year.

"Did you see the movie remake?" Sherry asked, rolling her eyes. "I mean, I love Julianne Moore. BUT...!"

The divine Sherry Vine

Dj Amorosa segued into some heavy-hitting house music later in his set. When I left the club, hailing a cab back to Bay Ridge, there was still a line waiting to get inside. People, this is the hottest club in New York City right now. Be there or be square. Nick Lion is going to make this an extraordinary addition to NYC nightlife for sure. Take a quick trip across the East River to this boogie wonderland in a safe and bustling neighborhood of shops, restaurants and pubs to the latest and greatest addition to clubbing. Baby, it's cold outside but it's hot inside Icon! The fun is back in LGBT nightlife.

There were many paparazzi there who took many professional photo ops of Nick and I with their big cameras. Ironically, I never had someone snap a pic of Nick & I together on my iPhone!

Tuesday night will be another great night for the club. New Year's Eve Gala with hosts Carmen Carrera and Amanda LePore! Get there early, people.

ICON: where the happy people go!

T

Hot Dj Amoroso spins at ICON

The 2014 Hello Dolly 50th Anniversary Celebration

Mark your calendars" writes Richard Skipper.  The Broadway musical, Hello, Dolly!, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

"I'm thrilled to be bringing together Nicole Barth, Ron Young  (both dancers in the original Company and Carleton Carpenter and Johnny Beecher (Sheridan (Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker: Mary Martin International Company) and others all together on one stage!" 

Members of the original cast of Dolly will be together for the first time in 50 years on Saturday, January 18.

You can contact: Richard Skipper Celebrates:  845-365-0720, or Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Richard Skipper Celebrates…The Fiftieth Anniversary of Hello, Dolly!

Jan 18, 1:30pm LOCAL 802 MUSICIAN'S HALL - NY SHEET MUSIC SOCIETY, 322 West 48th Street, NYC

RICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HELLO, DOLLY!

Richard Skipper will be kicking off a yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hello, Dolly with members of the original Broadway cast! Flea market: 12:30 - 2:00- Great place to find music sheets, tapes, CD's etc. Members may bring their CD's to sell at the CD table.

For information on this, write to ceo@mirandamusic.com Program: 2:00 - 3:00P with cast members from the original Broadway cast! (Scheduled: Nicole Barth (Original cast), Paul Berne (dancer, Original Company), Carleton Carpenter and Johnny Beecher (Sheridan (Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker: Mary Martin International Company), Wayne Clark (first National Company with Carol Channing), John Anthony Gilvey: Author, Before the Parade Passes By: Gower Champion and the Glorious American Musical (click here), David Hartman (Rudolph and Stage Manager: Original Company), Charles Karel (Original cast), Jan LaPrad (Original Company dancer), Joan “Buttons” Leonard (original company), Lee Roy Reams (Cornelius Hackl 1977 tour and Broadway Revival, director 1996 Broadway tour and Revival), Ron Young (dancer original cast). Non-member guest fee $10. Membership only $50 per year/single (9 great Programs and a monthly Newsletter). BECOME A MEMBER!

Carol Channing will also be appearing at Town Hall on Monday, January 20, 2014 with host Justin Bond:

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/185257-Fans-May-Submit-Questions-for-Carol-Channing-at-Town-Hall?tsrc=nx

There will be two special performance’s of Peggy Herman’s hit show, Herman Sings Herman.

Peggy Herman will be joined by Jerry Lanning (Patrick, Mame 1966) and Tony Sheldon on Saturday night, January 18 Herman Sings Herman. Lee Roy Reams (whom I had the pleasure to meet and sit with at Melissa Manchester's act at BB King's last Spring) is Peggy’s guest on the evening of the 19th show at 7pm. (Both Shows at The Laurie Beechman Theater.)

http://www.peggyherman.com

Hello, Dolly! was first produced on Broadway by David Merrick in 1964, winning a record 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, a record held for 35 years. The show album, Hello, Dolly! An Original Cast Recording, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002. The show has become one of the most enduring musical theater hits, enjoying three Broadway revivals and international success. It was also made into a 1969 film that was nominated for seven Academy Awards.

Please contact Richard Skipper Celebrates…845-365-0720 Richard@RichardSkipper.com for press inquiries.

Exclusive Q&A with LaLa Brooks of The Crystals

Delores "LaLa" Brooks possesses an amazing voice and the versatility of it is evident on her terrific new solo album on the independent Norton Records release, All or Nothing. I recently reviewed it on this blog: http://djbuddybeaverhausen.blogspot.com/2013/11/all-or-nothing-la-la-brooks-gets-her.html

When you're listening to Phil Spector's pop classics with The Crystals, like "Da Doo Ron Ron" and "Then He Kissed Me," you are listening to LaLa.

LaLa now resides in the East Village and still performs live. (She has a dynamic on-stage presence.) Time has only strengthened and brought new shading, richness and style to her voice.

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen:  LaLa, this is truly a pleasure and a privilege to interview you. You have been an  iconic voice since I was a kid growing up in Paterson, NJ (and you  weren't much older than me at the time, actually). Where did your amazing voice come from? I mean, was it raw talent or did you have any formal singing lessons?  
LaLa Brooks: No, it's just raw talent. No singing lessons.

DBB: You began your professional career with The Crystals. How did you come together as a group? 
LLB: Barbara Alston's cousin, Benny Wells started the group. The Crystals came from Patsy Wright's neice. Patsy was an original member. I was asked to join the group.

DBB: Let's discuss your new album, All or Nothing, on Norton Records, if you don't mind. I was blown away by it. Obviously a labor of love. How does it feel to have a new solo album released? 
LLB: It feels great having a solo album after all this time. The greatest reward is that everyone has accepted it so well.

DBB: You just got back from touring in Spain. What was that experience like? 
LLB: Spain was wonderful. They really cherish older music and appreciate the older artists.

DBB: Your mom was Native American, your dad African-American. Did you feel  "different" growing up in the 1950s and '60s? And did that affect you as a singer in any way? 
LLB: No, not really. My mom made it a point to raise us without any prejudice.

DBB: All or Nothing displays your range and your vocal diversity. How involved were you in the selection of songs?  
LLB: I wasn't involved in the selection of the songs. I was more involved in how they were recorded and how I wanted  my voice to sound on each of the songs.

DBB:  I'm very excited you're coming back to The Cutting Room in February.  Five years ago, I saw you at its old location and you were amazing. I hope you will be doing live versions of the songs from All or Nothing. And, by the way, we bumped into each other at the old Cutting Room when  I stepped out of the men's room & you came out from the dressing  room (or backstage) and I gushed. I was just so excited you were back on  the scene. How do you deal with fawning fans? 
LLB: I try to make the fans feel as relaxed as possible. The main thing is, I'm sort of overwhelmed that they accept me and so I try to be as humble as possible. And I'm so glad that they appreciate me. I want them to know that they're special to me.

DBB: You were in the original cast of Hair. We'd love to hair -- I mean, hear -- about what that experience was like for you.  
LLB: It was crazy in a good way. The story of Hair opened my eyes to not judge people by the way that they look. It also made me feel more comfortable in my skin because I always liked to dress different, not traditional. It taught me to be a free spirit.

DBB: You got married, lived in Germany and London, and basically left the music industry for a while. What were those years like? 
LLB: Actually it was England first and then Austria. My years in Europe were a learning experience and I was introduced to other cultures and languages. I learned that Europeans are not as uptight as some of the Americans are.

DBB:  Phil Spector. We all want to know what it was like working with him. And were you shocked or surprised when he ended up in prison? 
LLB: It was a pleasure to work with Phil. I was a child who introduced to great music and great musicians who played in the studio with me. Yes, I was shocked when he ended up in prison.

DBB: La La, you were stupendous at that girl group fest at Damrosch Park at  Lincoln Center a couple of summers ago. You really rocked "River Deep,  Mountain High." Have you ever considered recording it, because it was so  outstanding?  
LLB: No, I never thought about recording it. I was frightened to death about doing it. People don't know that Darlene Love was supposed to have been on that show. The producer was trying to have her, Ronnie Spector and me as the show's headliners. I was supposed to do my songs only. But when Darlene canceled, the producer called and asked if I would do "River Deep." I asked that if I were to mess the song up during rehearsals, would they eliminate it from the show. But when the rehearsal went well, and I had some encouragement from the band, I just went for it! I'm glad I got through it.

DBB: As the dance music Promoter at Queens Our City internet radio, it behooves me to ask you how is it that your fabulous diva vocals never fronted a disco or dance music number. Would you consider it if the right  producer were to ask you? 
LLB: I sure would!

DBB: La La, it is truly special to be doing this interview with you. Happy New Year to you and your family.  Any last shout outs to your fans? 
LLB: I shout out to all my fans, "I'm for real and love all of you. Have a blessed and Happy New Year."

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen's Christmas Blog Benediction

At 12:50 pm EST today, my blog was viewed 539 times! Thanks to all my readers and a very merry Christmas! This is truly incredible as, in years past, Christmas has traditionally been a relatively quiet day for Leave It to Beaverhausen.

The blog's daily stats begin at midnight Greenwich Mean Time, which is currently 7 pm in New York. I am happy this Christmas to receive such a gift from you, and I thank each of you for reading my blog. Who knows where our viewership will be at 7 pm tonight!

You can also read my articles on Queens Our City Internet Radio! http://queens.ourcityradio.com/

My sincerest appreciation to everyone across the USA and Canada, in the UK, Germany, Netherlands, France, Mexico, Thailand, Brazil, Australia, Malaysia, Belgium, Italy, Serbia, China, the Ukraine and all over this wonderful planet we share!

Season's Greetings to all and wishing you the best!

Merry Christmas from Buddy B!

Joan Collins, playing (surprise!) a ruthless, evil bitch versus Santa Claus on a very hectic Christmas Eve in this classic horror episode from the 1973 British horror film, Tales from the Crypt! Merry Christmas to all!

My 2013 Christmas Countdown with Bette Davis and Faye Dunaway

Mommie Dearest, her Christina & Baby Jane Hudson dance our swan song on My 2013 Christmas Countdown! Merry Christmas and Enjoy the Holidays. With love xxx Dj Buddy Beaverhausen!

An ICONic Club Comes to Queens!

It is again my pleasure to interview Nick Lion, this time to promote the opening of his fabulous new club, ICON. I will be in attendance on opening night, covering this really huge event for Queens Our City Radio along with QOC Station Manager, Barbara Sobel. Astoria, Queens has truly become Hollywood on the Hudson and Icon will certainly be a major part of that. I very much look forward to being part of the excitement this Saturday night, December 28.

 

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Hi, Nick. We're so excited about the opening of your club, ICON, on December 28th, and can't wait to be there! How are you feeling right now?

Nick Lion: Besides my music, this is the realization of another great passion of mine. I've always enjoyed entertaining guests and hosting parties at my home, now I have a larger, much more luxurious playground to do it in. It truly is a dream come true for me.

DBB: Your club opening is really a b.f.d. (as Joe Biden might put it) for Queens and for the City of New York overall. What's involved in getting this to happen?
NL: It takes a village! [laughs] It's a huge undertaking, but along with the talent, dedication and love of a lot of individuals who believed in the vision and concept, we made it a reality. And it is a "b.f.d." for a venue of this type for Queens (Astoria) or anywhere. I don't think there is anything quite like it.

DBB: The club is located in Astoria, just over the bridge from the Bloomingdale's Belt in Manhattan. How easy is it for Manhattanites to get there?
NL: I lived in Astoria all my life and love it. It's the closest borough to Manhattan with the easiest most direct access. If you want to live somewhere other than Manhattan, yet be the closest to it, that's Astoria. Its a 15 minute train or bus ride over the bridge or a 10 minute car ride. That's why so many of our brothers and sisters are discovering it and making the move I think it going to be the next Gay Mecca, besides the Village.

DBB: Obviously, you're going for glamour, you're going for class, you're going for major excitement and entertainment. In your own press release, you are "taking the NYC dance club scene to a new level." What inspired you to do this, Nick?
NL: I just felt there was a lot missing from the current club scene these days. They've become repetitious and lackluster. I'm bringing back the classic "old school" days when clubbing was at its peak. When folks got dressed to "be seen" when they went out.You could go out and make new friends, talk, dance and even get lucky. Socialization is what's missing big time from the club scene. Except for special performances and occasions, you won't find t.v or video screens stealing the scene. They can watch T.V. or Music Videos at home anytime. I want my patrons to look at each other, talk to each other, not be hypnotized by the movie screen. At ICON, my patrons are the features, and the stars; not a Ke$ha video.  Also important to me, no plastic glasses. Only real glassware and crystal, just as I'd serve my guests in my home.

DBB: You're near the Astoria movie studio that's opened a major new sound stage for film and tv. And you have claimed your club is about the "luxury & glamor of Rodeo Drive without the attitude." It's suddenly seems like Queens is the new Tinsel Town East, no? Do you feel there's a convergence of attitude and energy there?
NL: Definitely, with the great influx of gays and lesbians moving to Astoria, the tone, attitude and energy is becoming more colorful & progressive. It certainly could be the new Tinsel Town. I think today, with all the horrible events we're faced with day to day, we all need a luxurious, safe and super-friendly place to escape reality. When the world outside gets lonely and cold, ICON will be the place where you can get a hug with your cocktail if needed.

DBB: You've got hosts Sherry Vine and Laritza Dumont, Dj Amoroso, paparazzi are promised as are celebrity guests, all on opening night. This is really going to be a major happening, isn't it?
NL: The combination of all that talent and glamour, combined with the popping of flashbulbs, is sure to make for a combustible, memorable night of fireworks.

DBB:  Nick, I imagine that opening a club in the City of New York is a Herculian effort, especially legally and financially. What is the reality of pulling this off in the City?
NL: It's a painstaking process in many ways, a lot of legal red tape, but the end result makes it all worthwhile. It was a year in the making, and I can't wait to kick open the doors on December 28th.

DBB: I know you'll have a whole Marilyn theme we can expect with ICON's artwork especially. Please fill us in about the Marilyn connection.
NL: Marilyn was always one of my fabulous obsessions and inspirations. Her beauty is timeless. She was an orphan that became an unforgettable legend. She was one of a kind and ICON, which was named in her honor, is also one of a kind. ICON is esthetically beautiful, and glamorous, yet like Marilyn, has a lot of heart. If given the choice to go out with friends to have a cocktail in a place that looks like a bowling alley or a place that shines bright like a diamond, I think and hope they'd choose the latter. I know I would! We're honored to have ICON chosen by Celebrity Portraiture,Tim Otte to premiere his fabulous Marilyn Monroe exhibit. Tims work will have a prominent spot on our red sequined wall. I'm a big fan and proud owner of his work. It's an honor to have him join us and an exciting addition to the festivities. It seems no matter what I do in my life, Marilyn seems to find her way in it, one way or another. And I love it!

DBB: This is obviously a labor of love, the realization of a dream and a fulfillment of ambition. How did you pull this all together and make it happen? And how long has it been from the inception of your dream to the reality of all this?
NL:  As I mentioned earlier, it was a year in the making, but actually it has taken almost a lifetime to get it exactly how I imagined it to be.

DBB: Can you tell us about what you have planned for ICON for New Year's Eve? 
NL: For our NYE Gala, I have legendary glamazon hostesses Amanda Lepore and Carmen Carerra in the house. There'll be lots of surprises, special guests, sexy dancers, surprise show, food, lots of champagne, and the greatest music by Mix Master Amoroso to dance us into the next year. 

DBB: What do you feel will set ICON apart from other current clubs in NYC?
NL: Clubs have used every gimmick invented throughout the years.  The most important difference between ICON and other clubs is the way our patrons will be treated.  ICON is a place where you can expect a smile and feel like you belong. This will be a place where you will feel appreciated and know that we will always be happy to see you. I think that's the real difference I'm striving for. A place where you can lift your spirits along with your cocktail.

DBB: Nick, lots of love, luck and the success that you deserve. This is truly an electric moment for gay nightlife in Manhattan! Any final shout-outs to our readers?
NL:  I know the social climate has changed out there today with all the technology, and they may feel its not necessary to go out to socialize and meet people anymore. But I believe human beings still need physical contact with each other, beyond all the texting and emailing. And I hope that ICON can motivate that type of socializing again and make us enjoy going night clubbing again. And we'll be there to greet them when they do.  

Holiday with Madonna, Christmas-Style

Holiday! Celebrate with Madonna on the eve before Christmas Eve, special holiday mix complete with sleigh bells!

2013 Christmas Countdown Bonus featuring Bette Midler

The Divine Miss M brings back Optimistic Voices to introduce this song (originally by Bing Crosby & the Andrew Sisters), returning to her Hawaiian roots as well as her Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy ones. Mele Kalikimaka to y'all!

We Need a Little Johnny Mathis on My 2013 Christmas Countdown

It's just not Christmas without hearing Johnny Mathis' voice. It's Sunday and Johnny always makes the season just a little gayer, chances are, especially when he covers this show tune from "Mame." Happy holidays! Christmas is thisclose.

Bananarama Christmas Countdown Bonus

For all of you who are ready to dance in your living room tonight, here's the recent Almighty full-bodied remix of Bananarama's "Baby, It's Christmas"!

Feliz Navidad a'la Bette Davis on My 2013 Christmas Countdown

Impersonator Jimmy James channels Bette Davis for Christmas. Here is his divine Davis rendition of "Feliz Navidad" as a special holiday treat. Dj Buddy Beaverhausen wants to wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart!

Death of Porn Pioneer Al Goldstein

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Billboard's Year-End 2013 Dance Songs of the Year

This year's #1 on the Billboard Top 50 Dance/Club Songs chart really blew me away! What a refreshing surprise that the UK's Emile Sande's "Next to Me," from her 2012 album release, is at the top. Sande is truly a diva to keep your eye on and your ears open for. This soul/funk upbeat throwback highlights the Scottish singer's distinctive vocals and songwriting skills. Mirrorball's Big Room mix is best in my opinion. How nice to have this settle atop the US chart!

Next to her, at #2, is Christina Aguilera's "Let There Be Love." More disco funk in fourth place with Daft Punk's "Get Lucky," a definite neuveau-disco and certainly one of the year's best dance tunes.

Frankly, though, there's a lot of crap at the top of the chart until you get to the acceptable "People Like Us" by Kelly Clarkson, at # 18 another pop radio tune remixed for clubs rather than a song intended for them. (She is also at #31 with "Catch My Breath.") Lovely to find Yoko Ono at #19 and Kylie Minogue's "Skirt" at #22.

Ellie Goulding occupies both the 24th and 26th spots. In the prior, she is featured vocalist on dance producer Calvin Harris' "I Need Your Love" and is solo star in the latter slot's "Anything Could Happen." Katy Perry's "Roar" at #27, again topping Lady Gaga on the chart though LaGa's release ("Applause") came later in the year and appears on the chart as numero 35.

Depeche Mode scored a major dance hit with "Heaven" (#29). Very happy to see Chris Cox + Dj Frankie's "Oh Mama Hey," featuring the voice of Crystal Waters, at #41. Truly one of my faves of 2013 that can bring me to the dancefloor any time. Tori Amos' "Flavor" is #42, buoyed by one of the late, great Peter Rauhofer's final remixes.

Cher's "Woman's World" sneaks in at #46, released mid-year.

And there we have it: your Hit Parade per Billboard featuring some of our current, beloved divas. Have a safe, holiday season and support the artists and the club venues and let's hope 2015 will bring a big return to true dance/club music for us all.



You can see the full Billboard round-up by visiting:
http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2013/hot-dance-club-play-songs

Karen Carpenter on My Christmas Countdown

This song has pretty much become a Christmas classic. The Carpenters, "Merry Christmas, Darling." Only 5 Days till Christmas!

The Daffy "Duck Dynasty" Discord

Queens Our City Radio manager, Barbara Sobel, inquired about Duck Dynasty and I posited I thought it was a new series starring Joan Collins as a duck. I mean, imagine Joan, Linda Evans and the late John Forsythe as ducks quacking and preening their feathers in some swank pond if you will. (Not too much of a stretch from the reality of that classic series, actually. It could be fabulous in a weird way!)

Frankly, however, I know better ~ or is it worse? Duck Dynasty is actually a reality tv show I've never watched because it looks like it would make Anna Nicole and the Kardashians look erudite. Plus it's about guys killing ducks in the Louisiana bayou. Not exactly one of my particular interests.

"Is this man simply expressing his beliefs or spewing bigotry?" posed CNN. They explained, "Phil Robertson, the patriarch in A&E's 'Duck Dynasty,' won't be duck calling on air anytime soon. The network suspended him after he made controversial remarks about gays and blacks in a magazine interview."

I think the 67-year-old rustic from the swamps could not realistically be expected to say anything otherwise, frankly. And this came from an interview in GQ (Gentleman's Quarterly)! Honestly, wasn't this a set-up? What does a knowing fashion magazine think a clodhopper is going to say about black people and gays when they ask him?

"It seems like, to me, a vagina -- as a man -- would be more desirable than a man's anus." NO! I'm dumbfounded by that point of view. "That's just me. I'm just thinking: There's more there! She's got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I'm saying? But hey, sin: it's not logical, my man. It's just not logical," Robertson was quoted as saying.

"Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men," the interviewee blurted to the press. Sounds like my man has some wild fantasies.

Well, what would you expect a duck hunter to say? I mean, I don't think he's particularly evolved; in fact, Daffy Duck would have a field day with him, I imagine. And, by the way, A&E actually has a reality series about a duck hunter "dynasty"? This is Arts and Entertainment? Who's watching??! The Texas Chainsaw Massacre family? (However, this is a ratings success for A&E, I must say. Scary.)

Reuters wrote that the GQ interview "has sparked a politically charged debate about religion and tolerance while casting doubt on the series' future." The show is now on hiatus. Well, isn't that just ducky?

Sarah Palin tweeted, "Free speech is an endangered species: Those 'intolerants' hatin' & taking on Duck Dynasty patriarch for voicing personal opinion take on us all."

GLAAD took "on us all" by writing, "Phil and his family claim to be Christian, but Phil's lies about an entire community fly in the face of what true Christians believe. He clearly knows nothing about gay people or the majority of Louisianans –- and Americans -- who support legal recognition for loving and committed gay and lesbian couples. Phil's decision to push vile and extreme stereotypes is a stain on A&E and his sponsors who now need to reexamine their ties to someone with such public disdain for LGBT people and families."

Quack quack, I'm a disco duck, duckies!

Charo Looks for Santa Claus on My 2013 Christmas Countdown

In her inimitable style and diction, Charo sings "Mamacita, Donde esta Santa Claus?" disco-style as arranged and produced by Salsoul Orchestra. For me, it cannot be Christmas until I play this tune. Hope she sees him and his sleigh this year. Ole!

2013 Christmas Countdown with Ronnie Spector

Those great, indelible lead vocals from the Ronettes, Miss Ronnie Spector, covers the Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers doo-wop Christmas classic, "Christmas Once Again!" It's from her Christmas e.p., Best Christmas Ever.

Just one week until Christmas!

The Obama Experience: Winter Olympics Message to Putin

This Wednesday, US President Barack Obama scored a diplomatic coup regarding the Winter Olympics in Russia. According to ESPN (yes, ESPN! How often do you find Buddy B quoting ESPN?!):

President Barack Obama sent Russia a clear message about its treatment of gays and lesbians with who he is -- and isn't -- sending to represent the United States at the Sochi Olympics.
Billie Jean King will be one of two openly gay athletes in the U.S. delegation for the opening and closing ceremonies, Obama announced Tuesday. For the first time since 2000, however, the U.S. will not send a president, former president, first lady or vice president to the Games.

Now, Billie Jean is not my lover, but I love seeing her going off to the Olympics as a representative along with Czech-born Martina Navratilova, the other "openly gay athlete"! Czechmate!

King told the press she was "deeply honored" to represent the United States at the event.

Buddy Beaverhausen can only assume Greg Louganis was not available. I mean "gayness" is actually part of that man's name! Plus he's still a cutie-pie.

ESPN (yes, that ESPN!) continued:

Russia has come under fierce criticism for passing national laws banning "gay propaganda." Though the White House did not specifically address the Russian laws in making its announcement, spokesman Shin Inouye said the delegation "represents the diversity that is the United States" and that Obama "knows they will showcase to the world the best of America -- diversity, determination and teamwork."
 
The White House said Obama's schedule will not permit him to attend the Games.
 
"It's a positive sign to see openly gay representatives in the delegation," said Michael Cole-Schwartz, spokesman for the Human Rights Campaign, which recently sent a letter urging Obama to include gays and lesbians in the delegation. "Hopefully it sends a message to the Russian people and the rest of the world that the United States values the civil and human rights of LGBT people."

Women In Hip Hop Part 5 w/ Nadia Piet

Divas of hip hop! Check out this hot, new interview, part 5, from Lauren LoDo Surratt's blog. On its way to Queens Our City Radio, too, but I got the scoop from my cuz....

http://www.ashytojazzy.com/thewritersblock/2013/11/17/women-hip-hop-series-part-5-become-leaders-in-the-hip-hop-world-improving-the-culture

Interviews Are Coming Home

Yes, that's right! After nine months of Blab It to Beaverhausen, I've decided to re-consolidate the interviews with this main blog for 2014. Blab It will still continue for links until everything is imported back to Leave It. Get it? Blab It comes back to Leave It, and the buzz goes on!

Thumbs Up on the Ab Fab Feature!

Well, it's time for good cheer and popping open whatever is on hand because, after quite a long period of buzz, the Absolutely Fabulous film is absolutely fabulously going to happen!

Reports the Daily Mail UK: Appearing on daytime television show This Morning, Jennifer [Saunders] - who was promoting her new book Bonkers - spoke about movie plans: 'There isn't [a movie] but there will be. I'm close to picking up a pen, that's how close it is,' Jennifer revealed. She added: 'But after Christmas. There's so much to do before. I don't want to write it before Christmas, that would be silly. I'll do it after.'

The image above surfaced on the Internet very recently. Expect the movie in 2015, sweety darlings! 

2013 Christmas Countdown with Cyndi Lauper & The Hives

Love this song, "A Christmas Duel," by Cyndi Lauper and Swedish rock band The Hives. It's like Christmas with George and Martha (of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf; not the Washingtons) meet Phil Spector's Wall of Sound. Merry Friggin' Christmas!

Billy Jack Goes to Heaven: RIP, Tom Laughlin

Tom Laughlin, best known as the star of the highly successful Billy Jack films, was so much more than that. Wikipedia tells us he was: an American actor, director, screenwriter, author, educator and political activist..... In the early 1960s, Laughlin put his film career on hiatus to start a Montessori preschool in Santa Monica, California; it became the largest school of its kind in the United States. In his later years, he sought the office of President of the United States in 1992, 2004, and 2008. He also was involved in psychology and domestic abuse counseling, writing several books on Jungian psychology and developing theories on the causes of cancer.

Sad and ironically, he developed inoperable tongue cancer in 2001.

His daughter, Teresa Laughlin, told the Los Angeles Times, "[O]nce he found Jungian psychology, it supplanted everything else."

His films included "The Born Losers," a 1967 biker movie; "Billy Jack" in 1971; and "The Trial of Billy Jack" in 1974. A fourth film, "Billy Jack Goes to Washington," had only a limited release after its production in 1977. Based on... "Mr Smith Goes to Washington," it condemned the nuclear energy industry and was suppressed by politicians with something to lose, Laughlin suggested to reporters. "However corrupt you think Washington and Congress are, you're not even close," he said in a 2007 Sacramento TV interview, according to the LA Times.

Billy Jack remains an iconic movie figure, a karate-chopping pacifist reluctantly but stoically forced into battle by racists and other violent troublemakers.

In recent years, Laughlin suffered a series of strokes and acquired an auto-immunity disorder known as Celiac Disease. He died of complications from pneumonia and is survived by his daughter and wife (since 1954), Delores Taylor. He was 82.