May 1980/$1.25 Usten toyour ,mon.

Cap'n Mike, WlndJlmmer 'Barefoot' Crulsu, They want to take off with P.O. Box 1110, Dept. They want to bust out, Miami Belch, Florida 33139. to kick off their shoes and other spirited bodies and souls on one of the most glorious My shoes are half off already. leave civilization dockside. Send me your free full color experiences imaginable, 'Great Adventure' booklet. Theywant to be turned They want to stand on tiny A Windjammer 'barefoot' loose on the decks of a dots of land named Nevis, adventure. Name _ majestic schooner. Dominica and Anegada, For as little as $295, you can Address _ To reggae and rock to a steel to discover tropical rain forests, band far into a star-flecked be footloose and free as a gull to slip into crystal waters for 6 to 11 days. Caribbean night. and explore enchanted coral City/State/Zip ~ _ They want to sink their toes reefs, to sail away to another time, We're going to do good things deep into white, pink and another world. to your head. If you just list to your feet. black sand. Oh, so warm. They want to prop up the ship's And be the first to make railing while you linger with their mark on an unspoiled, a shipmate over a swizzle. forgotten strand of beach. And love two other bare feet in a secluded corner of the most romantic Sea in the world. ROUTES MAGAZINE, A Guide to Black Entertainment. . Cover by Phil Bray

ROUTES FEATURES Ronald Bunn Publl sher/Edllor

Agnes O. Bunn 7 Whispers: Quiet Storm Michael George Senior Editor 11 Two Tons 0' Fun: Bustin' Loose Amadeo Richardson Amadeo Richardson 17 Off·Broadway; Black Theatre LIves! Sharon Y. Lopez Managing Editor 21 LaWanda Page: Esther and the Snake Nelson George 24 The Metropolitan: Collecting Black Art Lowery Sims Gerrie E. Summers Copy Editor 29 Russell Brown: ClownIng Around Gerrie E. Summers 31 Dave Parker: Million $ Hitter Zachary Howard Ernest Crichlow 35 'At Home' In Senegal Estelle Epps Page 12 Art Director 37 In Search 0' the Perfect Pizza Michael George Betty Acosta 40 Amarillo in New York Barbara Silverstone Assl. Art Director

Chris Albertson Editorial Consultant

Contributing Editorial Staff Amande Anderson Mark Bego Townsend Brewster Dwight Brown Curt Davis DEPARTMENTS Ernest W. Ellis Estelle Epps Michael George Page 21 Nelson George Darryl Alv; n Hawes 4 Free For All Zachary Howard 5 Highlights Sharon Y. Lopez 6 Routes Response Valerie G. Norman Isabelle L. Ortiz 14 Music Review Raymond Patterson 18 Theatre Review Weller Raines 23 Media Review Amadeo Richardson Art Review Sandra Rogers 26 Elna Seabrooks 39 People Barbara Sliverslone 45 Routes' Roots Lowery Sims Laconia Smedley Robert Toomer, Jr. Ronald Tyson Page 40 Delores G. Wright LISTINGS

Photographers Morris Mercer Reggie Weeks

Advertising Sales Staff Director 9 Disco Quinnon Martin, V.P. 16 Music Connie Divack 20 Theatre Charles Avery 23 Media Circulation 27 Art Jackson Gill 30 Kids 32 Sports Promotions 38 Dining Leo Collins Page 45 Director

Galnelle Bunn Administrative A.sl. Volume 3. Number!l by Colli-Coleman Publishing, Inc. 1980. ROUTES Is publiShed monthly at 230 W. 4 lsi Street, N.Y., N.Y. 10036. Subscription Office-Box 767, Flushing, N.Y. 11352. Editorial and Circulation Head· quarters, 230 W. 41st St., N.Y.,N.Y.10036. Telephone (212)840-7290. SUBSCRIPTION RATES: In the United States and possessions $12 per year. Elsewhere $15. Printed in U.S.A. Foreign Subscriptions payable In ad· vance. All Rights Reserved. Cover and contents may not be reproduced In whole or part without prior written permission. Second class postage paid at New York, N.Y.

ROUTES, A Guide f() Black £lfter(ainmenf 3 FREE FOR ALL ques. Sandra Beck, instructor. -Carmine St. Recreation Center, EXHIBITIONS 10:30 am-1:30 pm. Clarkson StlSeventh Av So. 397-3147. Career Planning Workshops: -35 W 134th St. 397-3193. -Thru Jun 1-Not So Bad To Be In eSt. Mary's Recreation Center, St. Mississippi. Photo exhibit of the -May 7, 21, 28-Taking Control of Ann's Av/145th St, Bronx. 822-4682. country's most ambitious and suc­ Your Career and Personal Life: Br­ -Brownsville Recreation Center, cessful black community develop­ inging the Two Worlds Together. Linden Blvd/Stone Av, Brooklyn. ment efforts. The Ford Foundation, Conducted by Cynthia Cuyjet, 965-6583. 320 E. 43rd St. Mon-Fri, noon-5:30 Manager, Planning and Develop­ -St. John Recreation Center, 1251 pm. 573-4815 ment, Avon Products, Inc. Keys to Prospect Place, Brooklyn. 965-6574. planning your life and work. Three­ session workshop to help you MUSIC CONCERTS clarify personal values, work LECTURES through moral dilemmas, recognize alternatives and choose among Record Industry Program Series them, develop the ability to act May 3,2:30 pm-New York Singing once the choice is made. No (7 pm): Teachers Association. Donnell registration needed. Sessions held -May 6-The Advantages of Work­ Library Center, 20 West 53rd St. between 5:30-7:30 pm. ing with an Established Publisher. May 5,6 pm-Dennis Kleinman, -May 14, 5:30-8 pm-Conversations David Nelson Askew, Pres., Get guitar & Erin Lanston, soprano. at the Women's Center: An Experi­ Rich-Stay Rich Publishing. Wayne Donnell Library Center, 20 W. 53rd ment in Networking. The Women's Garfield, Pres., Arapesh Com­ St. Center Advisory Council is a group munications. May 6, 6 pm-Riverside Chamber of accomplished businesswomen -May 13-How You the Artist Can Players. Don nell Li brary Center, 20 and educators who welcome the Build Good Relations with a W 53rd St. chance to help others in the often Record Label. Vincent Davis, Ad. May 7 & 14, 12:30 pm-Jazzmen. lonely climb up the career ladder. Asst., Arista Records. Donnell LIbrary Center, 20 W 53rd This is a chance to meet and talk -May 20-The Role of A & R in Fin­ St. over career and education pro­ ding New Talent. Marcia King, Win May 10,2:30 pm-Musical Revue blems with Council members from Records. with Glory Van Scott. New York such corporations and institutions -May 27-Building An Image: Public Library at Lincoln Center, as Bankers Trust, IBM, the Press and PUblicity. Daniel Wynn, 111 Amsterdam Av. telephone companies, ITT, CBS, as Publicity Trainee, Arista Records. May 10, 2:30 pm-Classical Guitar well as colleges and voluntary Richard Reddick, Publicity Trainee, with Paula Talayco & Ann agencies. Registration necessary. Record World. Rothschild. Allerton Regional Women's Center for Education & 225 E. 118th St, Man. 831-8035. Branch, 2740 Barnes Av, Bronx. Career Advancement, a Program of the National Council of Negro HAIR COLORING WORKSHOPS Women, Suite 201, 198 Broadway. 964-8934. Mon-Fri, 9 am-2 pm: If you're a HOMEWORK AIDE Lunchtime Mini Workshops: woman of any age or race, with no more than 25 percent gray in your -May 6-Work Problems: Confounded by grammar? hair and a wish to try some soft, Understanding and Dealing with Distressed by division? Defeated subtle highlights, the Clairol Test by current events? Call the the Special Pressures Minority Center is looking for you. Products "Homework Hotline." A librarian or Women Face at Work. Ann Key, used have passed all medical and teacher will be on the other end to Director of Counseling, Consumer safety tests but are being market help you. Mon-Thu 5-8 pm. For Credit Counsel ing Service. tested and evaluated for wearabili­ Junior High and High School -May 13-Blue Collar Jobs for ty. After COloring, Test Center students. (212)780-7766, (914)682-9759 Women. Gloria Burns, Women in patrons are given a free hairset or Apprenticeship. blow-dry. Call for an appointment. -May 20-Standards for Evaluating INDOOR SWIMMING The Clairol Test Center, 345 Park Educational Programs in New York Av, 644-3960. City. Panel Discussion. -May 27-The Job Interview. Joyce The City Department of Parks and Wilson, Home Life Insurance. Recreation maintains several in­ door swimming pools, none of Two sessions will be held on each PARADES which charges an admission fee: of Ine above dates: 12:10-12:50 pm and 1:10-1:50 pm. -East 54th St. Recreation Center, -May 17, 1:15 pm-Military Order Friday Workshops: Focus on 542-8 E. 54th St. 397-3148 of WWs. 5th Av & 26th St to 54th SI. Resume Writing, Effective Inter­ -West 59th St. Recreation Center, -May 18, 1 pm-Martin Luther viewing and Job Search Techni- Between 10th & 11th Avs. 397-3170. King, Jr. 5 Av & 44th St to 86th St.

4 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Blnck EIl/(/nainmelll Highlights

Rod Rodgf!fS DOI/ct Company Roy, Goodmon & Brown

~/lIrley 8a ey Dionne Warwick

The Crusaders and Randy Crawford will Dionne Warwick will perform May 13-18 perform May 7 at Carnegie Hall. al Westbury Music Fair.

The Spinners and Phyllis Hyman will per­ Shirley Bussey will perform May 8-11 at form May 9-11 at Westbury Music Fair. The Dick Clark Westchester Theatre. Nancy Wilson and Ray, Goodman and Brown will perform on May 24 at A very Billy Eckstine will perform thru May 11 at Fisher Hall. the Grand Finale. Gil Scott-Heron will perform May 3/ at A very Fisher Hall. Rod Rodgers Dance Company wifl per­ form May 8, /0 & 11 at the Theatre ofthe The Studio Museum in Harlem will host I Riverside Church. film festival thru Mav 22.

Earl Klugh will perform May 10 at Avery Tom Jones will perform May 23 thru Jun

Randy Cro ....'/orrf Fisher Hall. I at Westbury Music Fair.

ROUTES, A Cllide 10 Black Entertainmenl 5 Routes Response

It was nice to see that you had a full artists get to our area, we can be inform­ good deal of noble aspirations, and a page of letters to the editor in your re­ ed. plethora of good intentions - but, alas, lit­ cent issue. I thought for awhile, that Frances Busby tle follow-through. So it is with my Routes didn't want letters from readers Savannah, GA deepest appreciation that I thank you and because J didn't see any. I thought it was your staff for saying what you will do, funny, because there is so much in the and doing what you say you will. I have been a Routes subscriber for magazine that I want to comment about. The article on P.A.C.E. in your March almost two years and I intend to remain This time, I want to limit myself to one issue is truly the outgrowth of a con­ a loyal supporter for a long time. I am 1980 thing that I saw that bothered me. tact of spiritual brothers. In that first con­ very pleased to see all the new things Patrice Campbell wrote this thing about tact (November, 1977, you may recall), happening, which I am sure will make J Nichelle Nichols being better than "your had been responding to the editorial in Routes the biggest and baddest publica­ average, snobby-nosed Julia." Miss your initial publication. You had spoken tion in New York. The quality of your Campbell should get her act and her of the responsibility if not the obligation writers and their vast experience are language together. I don't think that a making Routes authoritative. What I of those who struggle to assist (to the best professional black woman, as Julia was, of their ability) others they might en­ can't understand, is how the. article on should be called average. And to call counter who also push against those spring fashion got in like that. I read the Dianne Carroll's portrayal snobby­ forces seeking to destroy humanity. As a article several times and still couldn't nosed is nothing short of snobby-nosed. newly developed organization striving to figure out what to wear once the weather I hope you will print this, because in all pull from the mire of criminality those got warm. I finally consulted Gimbels. fairness, comments like Miss Campbell's who identify themselves as moving toward The pictures that went with the story deserve a response. a positive change in their lives, we reached were also sparse, but not as dull and out to you for a helping hand. Cir­ confusing as the story itself. Warren Green cumstances delayed your response to that Brooklyn, NY call, but I would like to let the world know Phyllis Dunn that you and your staff are truly among Philadelphia, PA Thanks to Routes and Walter Raines the few who practice what you preach, for a perceptive and wonderful review of and we here at P.A.C.E. salute you! the Dance Theatre of Harlem! Of all the It is rare indeed that one encounters reviews I read, J think yours was one of those who practice what they preach. Too Karamoko Baye the most interesting, and managed to often, and particularly among those of us Executive Director capture a bit of the spirit that the com­ who struggle to alter the world, there are a P.A.C.E. pany left with me and my friends the night we went to City Center. I hope your dance column will be a regular thing. The only thing I would add, is CAREER DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR that maybe in the future, your dance col­ Saturday, May 17,1980 Place: Workman's Circle umn could give us a little bit more criti­ Time: 9A.M.-2 P.M. 45 E. 33rd Street que and single out the really good Cost: $35 - Including Lunch groups for special attention. Also, there are so many small groups that some of TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CAREER us never hear about that should be POSITION YOURSELF TO GET AHEAD covered in the pages of ROuJes. A practical, one-day seminar for career-minded men and women to G.C. Burch help you plan for professional and personal achievement. Don't Yonkers, NY leave your career to chance. Seminar Emphasis On: • The An of Interviewing • Developing a Strategy to Promote Yourself I stumbled across your magazine in a • Selling Career Goals and Objectives doctor's office recently. I didn't know • Effectively Managing Stress that such a publication even existed in • Writing Resumes that Work New York. I'm from the South, and our • Dressing for Success choice of entertainment publications is All instructors are eXIJerts in their fields limited. I think you should try to penetrate the southern states because REGISTER NOWl there is a sort of cultural wasteland as CALL (212) 421-8390 far as magazines go. And. you offer such an informative look at what's hap­ pening not only in New York, but how it Ll~ERSPACE affects the rest of the country. Since you PERSONNEL,INC. see the newest cultural happenings first, 527 MADISON AVENUE, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10022 it would be good for us to get a piece of that action. By the time the groups and ''THE CAREER BUILDERS"

6 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enterrainment THE WHISPERS: DISCO QUIET STORM

he Whispers have labored in vir­ Perhaps a couple of degrees above and coax America to the dance floor to T tual musical anonymity for over a mediocrity. Oddly, though, the group see their names in lights. Their latest dozen years, crooning soft ballads and had to betray the name, invent a thump­ album, "The Whispers," sold more conveying messages. Their success? ing bouncer, "And The Beat Goes On," than 300,000 copies in less than a month

ROUTES, A Guide to Black Entertainmenr 7 worked with the Whispers and they shared mutual admiration. Only a choice few music experts are aware that the Whispers have long since paid their dues. They toiled in musical limbo for many years. They appeared to fit that category of groups that either had a Limited audience or a more regional following. But they did manage to warm the stage for many of the most

(L·H)LeUl'tdl Degree. A1afcus Hutson. Edlin Cullison. 8ill Meehan. Afnit> Orlt'arlS. Nirho/us Culdwel/. prominent black singers. Those many Bud Ooin. Edclit'DeJoy, ChucJ,: ThugarrJ years in the wings gave the Whispers a after its December 1979 release. Nicholas says, "We can't waJk out or polish and finesse that is now helping Their sudden success proved to be turn our backs on people if they make a them cope with being at the top. nothing short of a miraculous recovery mistake. Loyalty is important." The Whispers complement their vocal for the group, who could list as their ma­ Even though the disco single helped to chemistry with smooth and oftentimes jor gig for [979, a Five week tour as the open new doors for the group, it cannot cleverly coordinated choreography by opening act for Evelyn "Champagne" be given all the credit for the album's Nicholas, who also sings second tenor. King, a newcomer who hasn't made current success. With the ballads on the Nicholas boasts that all the guys in the waves for quite some lime. LP, they have once again demonstrated group "can really dance well." "Without a doubt," explains Walter their ability to put a special signature on The Whispers's flair for dance can be Scott, half of the twin duo in the group, any song style. traced back to the twins, who started tap "this album is the high point for the "For us to really be the best we have dancing when they were four years ofd. Whispers. It gives us a sense of the to prove that we can get into all contem­ The "dynamic duo," Walter and worth of that adage 'hanging in there.''' porary music," explains Marcus. Scotty Scott, grew up in Los Angeles and found Scott's enthusiasm is understandable. It adds, "We do a little bit of everything­ themselves looking up to such groups of took the labor and love of twelve jazz, pop and funk. We don't have any the day as the Four Freshmen and the previous albums to bring the group to one particular style." Keenly aware of Hi-Law's. They learned a lot about the point of being an "overnight suc­ the dancing and get-up-and-clap mood entertaining from an uncle who taught cess." their hit single has created, the Whispers them the highs and lows of harmony, With an album destined to go have changed their show to include the one of the trademarks of the Whispers' platinum under their belts, the Whispers rousing numbers that the audiences, sound. When the two got their act have now embarked on a nation-wide who know them only from their latest together, they brought in Marcus, tour that will carry them to over 70 cities hit, will want to hear. But it can hardly Nicholas and Gordie Harmon to form where they hope to reach an estimated be said that the group has abandoned its the Whispers. Seven years ago, Harmon 500,000 fans. "When this tour is over, original intentions. was replaced by Degree. "At first," America will really know the Whispers," The ballad, in fact, was the group's notes Marcus, "we were really just sing­ beams mentor Dick Griffey, president of bread and butter over the years. That ing as a hobby. But after we got out of Solar Records, who, along with Leon they should score with a disco-oriented school, we decided to quit our jobs and SyJvers, produced the Whispers. hit is a strange twist indeed. Walter ex­ really go all the way." Easier said than Wallace "Scotty" Scott, who pLains that the Whispers were basically a done, of course. They encountered all balances the Libran scale of his twin message-oriented group that was "in­ the problems that aspiring acts face: brother interjects, "When you've paid terested in the ballad that told a story." unscrupulous prom'oters, no gigs, or the dues we've paid, you're sort of One ballad that adequately fits their engagements at low pay and a path of preparing for the possibility of good image is A Song jor Donny, a ballad broken promises. things happening. So we're ready to roU dedicated to the memory of the late However, the group feels that things with the success· punches the way we've Donny Hathaway, considered to have took a turn for the better when they rolled with adversity." The other group been one of contemporary music's great joined forces with Griffey. But it still members, Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus creators. The Whispers, along with Grif­ took seven years for success to knock at Hutson and Leaveil Degree, all concur. fey, have started the Donny Hathaway their door. Nicholas adds, "It's great having a hit, Scholarship Fund. The idea was born At least now, they think they are because it will enable us to do our thing last October as the Whispers were' ready. "There's no relaxation when you in front of that many more people. preparing a Christmas album. Scotty, have a hit record," says Walter. "We We've always stri'ven for wider recogni­ who shares lead with his brother, was know what it takes to make it. We are tion. Now it looks like we've got it." rehearsing a mellowed version of Don­ mentally prepared, but it's physically Not all the recognition has been ny's tune "The Christmas Song," when trying at times." At least the group isn't positive. The group, which espouses the group decided they had to do complacent-not by a long shot. They clean living and doesn't use alcohol or something befitting Hathaway's musical already have their own production com­ drugs, was probably more than em­ memory. The melody was given new pany and want more than anything for barrassed when last March group mem­ lyrics by singer/writer Carrie Lucas. The their Fans to realize how grateful they are ber Leaveil Degree; was arrested on Whispers donated $25,000 to for the years of support. a stolen goods rap, which is still in litiga­ Hathaway'S wife and children and an­ "It's nice to have a hit, but I doubt tion in a Los Angeles court. Degree nounced that Lhe proceeds from the sale that we'll start wearing bigger hats pleaded "not guilty" and posted a of the single version would go to a because of it," says Walter. True or not, $35,000 bond, which enabled him to re­ scholarship fund for underprivileged for the moment, I'm taking my hat off join the group on tour. He has the sup­ children. to the Whispers. They deserve it. @ port of his fellow Whispers and as Hathaway, who died last year, had -Michael George

8 ROUTES, A Guide /0 Black EI1/enainmell/ DISCO LISTINGS

BROOKLYN Bonda Illusions syslem and lounge sur- cnarga. Open dally QUEENS B'Way/45lh SI 24 E. 22nd 51 roundlngs. DraINS a 10 pm·4 .'n, axcepl Sun. Brown Sugu 354·6000 674·9177 well·dressed, malure 245·2400 Gemini 433 Sumner Av crOWd. Free bullel Th 5 11 20 O"eens 61vo 574·5615 Coilibron Impaneme pm-6 amIS6). Plliluue Kew Gilfde"s 19 W. 271h 51. Wed·Frl 5 240 W. 52nd 51 5B2·0352 1230 Second Ay ~20·9898 EcSluy pm·unlil; Sal 10 pm·8 Age: 21 and over. Dally Jackets required. Age: 527 Easlern P~wy am. ,ladies 23 and over; 9 pm·4 am; Frl·5al La Freak 25 GenIs, 23 Ladlas. Lamon Tree 756·6800 Genis 25 and over. g pm·6 am. 327 E. 481h Sl 535·8004 7034 "'"SI,n 51 689·2969 765·8085 SIO Coyer cherge-all Foresl HillS Goofy's dnnks are tree. Reflections 2632850 685 B'oadway CoHon Club Justin•• Fri·Sal, 10 pm·4 am 40 E. 58th 51 388·0488 686 W. 1251h 51. 500 Eighth Av Casual alllr•. BI·le"el disco w,lh Mon·Sun 10 pm·4 am, Jackels required. Age: 759·350 cocktail araa high alop The Red Plum $10 admission; Ladles 25 Gents, 23 Ladies. Fri· Ihe dance ffoor. FfI·Sat 520 41h Ay admitted free on Sun Sal $5 Minimum. Levillcu. 10 pm·4 am. Lunch and 439·7073 and Mon. 45 W. 33rd 51 cocktails. Mon·F'1 MO 3·7980 G.G. Knlckerbockar Jackels required, Age: Noon·9 pm. \28 W. 45th 5t 25 GenIs, 23 Lad les. 686-3365 BRONX En.flnc. Open Mon·Sun 9 pm·4 Disco: Fri & Sat. Th: liye 227 E. 56 5t am.Sun·Th 7:30 pm· entertainment. Minimum Clu~ Fentuy Islend Shows Tue and 5un at until. 2 drinks minimum $5·$7 Wed & Frl. 2268 Grand Concourse 9:30; Wed·Sat 9:30 & aller 9 pm. Reliinu Drsco F,,·Sal 55 11:45 pm. Coyer charge 246·1898 Maglquo 502 Park Ay SUBURBAN minimum SWimming Yarles. Disco aller mid· Flrsl AY/6 lsi St Mon·Sal 10:30 pm·4 am pool. thealre. game night. Mon cocktails La"'s 935·6060 Cover charge Mon·Th room, sauna, bathIng only. 161 E. 54th St $10, Fri·Sal 512. Ruling Clus " SUI! and Jacket renlalS. 421·5511 Age: 21 and oyer. Manhattan Reservations reqUired. 142 So Founn Av. Casual 223·0540 1436 Third A'v/81 51 Jackals and tlea for M' Vernon. N.Y 364·8972 Hippopotamus Tue·Th 9 pm men and evening attire D,sco and Aeslawanl. 405 E. 62M St La Cocu Fri·Sal '0 pm for women. (914) 688.()220 MANHATIAN Jackets and lies re· 152 E. 55th St Sun 9 pm Qulred. 5 I 2 Cover Disco Tue·Sun 10 pm· 737·4'44 charge. Open 10 pm· 4am. Casual attire. Frf· Adsm's Appla 4 am dally. Sal 58 minimum. Age: Melon'.! Thursdays NEW JERSEY 11 I 7 First Ay/82 St 486·1568 21 and oyer. 120 E. 16th 51 57W. 58th 5t Casual, two dance 371·1559 777·8\06 Excitingly decorated floors:· singles Ica Palaca multl·leYel spot for din. downslalrs, couples 57W. 571h St La Fartalle New York New York Ing and dancing 'rom 10 Zanzlba, upstairs. Minimum Age:18 and Over. 209 W. 48th 51 33 W. 52nd St· pm. Informal attl,e; 430 Broad 51 Yaries nightly($6.$12}. Open 10 pm·4 am. Duplex dance emporium Casual attire. Age: 18 open for lunch & dinner. Newark 371·8650 838·8557 with an excellent sound and oyer. $15 Coyer 371·7777 1201)643·6338

Open Wed., Thurs., Fri. 5 pm-until. Sat. 10 pm-6 am.

* Music by.*. L21I\I\Y D.

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ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enrertainmenr 9 America's Biggest Discount Warehouse GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES ON AU MAJOR _- .BRANDS!

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!'vfaf{ho Wash. Sylvesfer and lzora R hodes-A rmSltod

f "thin is in," then "fat's where it's that happen(~d to steam along. There the Felt Forum. They scored not only I at." This popular cliche has found a was a lot more personality, feeling and with the Sylvester hit, but began to make permanent home in Izora Rhodes­ motion waiting for the moment to break waves of their own with two singles from Armstead and Martha Wash-better loose. It broke loose, finally, this year their debut album- Just Us, and I Got known as the "Two Tons 0' Fun." when a little tune called You Are My The Feeling. The "Tons" have been around for Friend began to blast from portable The night before their premier, Mar­ quite some time, but they first became radios throughout the streets of tha, Izora and I were sitting in a hotel visible a few years back as the backup America. For the record, the song was room talking about the loves, likes and singers for Sylvester, whose overtly gay attributed to Sylvester, but the people frustrations of being Two Tons 0' Fun. presence raised eyebrows throughout the who were making it happen, as was ob­ Much to my amazement, it blossomed 50 states. . vious to the most rudimentary musical into quite a heavy rap session. Certainly Sylvester's act was unusual. ear, were Martha and lzora. It was It turns out that Martha and Izora, But what happens when you put two Izora, who virtually stopped the music who both weigh in at over 200 pounds, large women with such an act? Nothing to growl to the high heavens that she'd used to be slim, trim, little ladies. short of mayhem. The young, stocky kid "been around." And it was Martha "Before I got married," announces who used to run around San Francisco's whose lyric soprano beckoned you to her lzora, "I could not get over 100 pounds. Castro Street with a tambourine, begg­ side, with the angelic flirt that she knew I couldn't give a damn what I ate. You ing to sing for anybody who would you had been there all the time. should see some of myoId pictures." listen, coupled with two rousing The Two Tons had arrived. No. They But somewhere between her first and gospelists, gave character and personali­ had been there all the time. We had ar­ seventh child, she put on all those extra ty to the rather one-dimensional medium rived. pounds. "I have been up to 370 pounds called disco. But the public had seen but The Tons took New York by storm and I have come down to 225 pounds the tip of an emotional and rousing last month when they appeared with and then shot back up," she continues. iceberg that could sink any old Titanic Sylvester in front of SRO audiences at "When I'm on the road, I can control

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Blnck Elllertainmelll IJ my weight. But when I'm at home, I'm Izera cracks up at the remark and anything else. Even when you are with a husband who's no help." Izera says, "Child, I have seen people get up hoarse. I think it's a natural way of ex­ Rhodes recently married Frank Arm­ and say, 'all right, honey. Take off your pressing the way you feel." Izora says stead and changed her name. "When shoes. They gonna get down pow!" she doesn't growl all the time. Only on I'm home," she admits, "he's constant­ I can't help but ask a rather dumb special occasions. "When I get intensely ly cooking and I'm constantly eating. question amidst all the hysteria that has into a song, and there's a certain feeling. And I can't refuse the food. It's just so broken out in the room. Do people take Like when I'm trying to get a point good!" the Two Tons as a joke or are you for across.' , Izora, however, is quite happy with real? There are, in fact, times when Izera is her size. "I play football, basketball, "You mean like the fat lady in the cir­ not in the mood to growl. The Tons and baseball, everything with my six boys. I cus?" Izora asks me, still giggling. "No. Sylvester are under immense pressures of move and everything and I feel good Because once we start singing and carry­ all kinds, including the most uncomfor­ about myself. Part of Izora's profes­ ing on, the people know we are serious. table of hearing rumors that Sylvester is sional philosophy is the desire to pro­ We aren't jiving. It's two big women treating the Tons like Diana Ross ject a positive image for all large women singing." But why then the big thing allegedly treated her Supremes. to follow. "But I'm tired of sewing two about being big? "I love the pun on the "To me," Izora says straightforward­ colored sheets together to make an out­ weight," Izora continues, "because it ly, "that's just a type of envy. We are a fit. If they'd only make two sheets that grabs people's attention. If we were out unit. There could be truth in it and then would look cute!" there just as Izora and Martha, we'd be there couldn't. But I don't look at it that Martha says she jumped "from ll7 to out there like Sylvester or any other way. I'm looking at what's making me over 200 pounds and never knew why." singer with just a name. With the Ton­ happy. If I enjoy singing in a unit with She feels she can't afford to remain a nage as a title of the act, the people will Sylvester, then it's because I want to. "Ton" for too much longer. "I have to say, 'let's go down and check this out. I'm the one who has to be happy when I lose weight. First of all, I'm too tall for Are they really big? Are they really go out on that stage. What's the use of short and too short for tall. I have tiny huge? What in hell can those two big singing how happy I am when I'm about feet. I have problems with my leg. The women do?' " ready to explode. If I keep constant tur­ doctors have told me to lose weight. I It was Sylvester who coined the moil around me, I can't relate that on need to lose 75 pounds or so." phrase, "These Women Can Sing." stage. People are paying their hard­ Her weight problem has added a Martha, the soaring soprano of the earned money to see a good show and rather peculiar twist to their stage act. "I bouncy duo, once studied opera, which not to look at my turmoils." take off my shoes in the show. I can only enables her to glide past three octaves I can't help but get the feeling that wear high heels for so long. Then the with ease. "I studied arias with a private Izora is answering my question with a circulation gets bad in my legs. So I just teacher for almost a year," she informs question. Martha sits on the bed and take off my shoes. That's become my me. Martha says she took music in high says nothing at all. trademark. Sylvester sometimes begs, school but flunked harmony and The Tons were thrust into the 'please don't take off your shoes,' but I I 'changed over to business. I kept going limelight by Harvey Fuqua, the musical tell him, 'honey, when my feet start hur­ to choir classes. I had piano lessons as a dynamo who produced Sylvester after ting, I'm gonna take those girls ofn'" child, but I would always play by ear. [ having groomed the countless Motown took lessons with two different teachers acts that had risen to fame since 1960. and they both told me to quit wasting Harvey, along with Marvin Gaye, was my money." originally a member of the Moonglows. Izora, on the other hand, had scholar­ Fuqua realized the great potential of ships to various music schools in the Bay Izora and Martha and signed them to ex­ Area, majoring in piano, a cran whIch clusive contracts with Fantasy Records, she still shows off onsta~e. Unlike the Berkeley-based record company that Izora's husky pipes, Martha's voice is markets a truckload of jazz artists and very delicate. "When my teacher heard tried unsuccessfully to resurrect Martha that I sing gospel, she didn't want me to Reeves of Vandellas fame. do it because it's a hard, driving type of Both Martha Wash and Izora Rhodes­ music. Hard and heavy. In opera, you Armstead sing hymns of praise for Fu­ sing from the diaphragm." However, as qua. "I like his personality," Izora a Walkuere of pop music, Martha has to declares. "I like the way he treats belt from the throat. "I'm trying to sing people. We are not machines and he strong over my strained vocal chords. So treats us like human beings." True to his that's not good for my voice. I can sing reputation in the music business, Fuqua anything from a hard song to a very light has carefully honed his latest discovery, soprano tune. It wreaks havoc on my working endlessly to perfect voice and throat sometimes, but I've done it." technique. "But he does it in a way that Martha even growls sometimes. But the you don't resent it or hate him." real growler is Izera, whose bravura Yes, Martha, admits, Fuqua pushes voice will knock visitors in the last row t'hem. "He'll make me do a song over out of their seats. When she lets loose, and over again, until he feels he has two crowds go berserk -"as in church," or three different composites. And out Izora blurts out. of those three he'll pick the best one. "Growling never hurts me. I guess And each time, I'll do it a little bit bet­ because I do it so naturally. You can ter. " MOTlha Wash always growl when you can't do Izora kids a lot about him. "I'm lazy

12 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Entertainment and he knows it. He knows that there are Both ladies agree, however, that their certain ranges that I can sing. But I'll tours across the country have helped to say, 'I can't sing them. I can't sing high. undo some of the harm done by the I want to sing low. 1 don't feel like exer­ bigotry of the Anita Bryants. ting that little inch of strength and Sylvester's personal manager enters energy to get that one note." But the room and insists that the question of Harvey manages to coax it out of her Sylvester's homosexuality never comes anyway, witness her spine-tingling up unless "the press" brings it up in in­ vocals on I Got The Feeling. Since the terviews. The Tons disagree ever so Tons come out of a solid gospel tradi­ politely. "We do encounter that. It hap­ tion, I can't help but pop the obvious pened to us in Alabama," Izora cor­ question. What do your God-fearing, rects. "The kids laughed because they fundamentalist brethren think of you had been programmed a certain way." singing with a gay person? Martha wholeheartedly agrees. "The The answer, at first, is quite surpris­ kids don't know. They hear it from ing. other people." "We don't get that much flak because Izora, with a gleam on her face adds, we are associated with him. We get "We have heard these things and we hassled because we are singing secular have been confronted with that. But music," Izora explains. "You sing in once people have seen and heard us sing, church all your life, serve God, and th.en they come away with a better at­ all of a sudden, here you are praising the titude-including those down-home devil. " church folks." Martha adds, "My mother has always "We were in Tulsa, Oklahoma," been on my case because she wishes that Martha announces. "Oral Roberts I'd continue singing gospel. And I have Country." I tell her she's talking about told her on many occasions that I have my home town. not stopped. I am just doing other tunes "You can have your h0me town!" Izoro Rllodes-Arm.'ilead now," Martha snaps sarcastically. "They But the ladies are sometimes con­ weren't ready for us. We were with War whose it is and does the other Ton sleep fronted with the gay question. •'The and the Commodores." The incident next door. After all, these are really big three of us were on television once," rekindles in [lOra's memory also. "They ladies and the room's kinda small. No, I Izera recollects. "And this person said, looked at us real strange. When we first am told. This is it. A [(Jam at the Holi­ '1 looked and there were three ladies up started singing, there was a very slight day Inn on 10th Avenue. Sylvester and there. And I asked which one was response. We are so used to the large his entourage, meanwhile, are staying at Sylvester. He's pretty.' It tickled us." responses when we get on the stage. So the classy St. Moritz along fashionable "He's happy, not us," [zora lays it on me and Sylvester and Martha were Central Park South. Is this any way to the line. "That's his life. I cannot live whispering to each other, '0-0-0-0-11., treat a lady, I wonder? The Tons don't his life. If he's happy about his life, then this is str-a-a-a-nge.' We said, 'well, let's complain. They just shrug. I'm ecstatic about it." forget it. We'll get off on our own The next night, I'm at the Felt Forum Martha, however gets a bit more energy. Then, after they looked us over to watch the Two Tons 0' Fun "world philosophical. "People should be happy and deciphered that one is long, short, solo debut." After two songs it was all for us. I like what I'm doing. They brown, and green, they joined in with over. That was not the only disappoint­ (those who criticize her singing with us. We won them over. But we knew we ment. It was hard to spot them­ Sylvester) are not taking care of me. were in the Bible Belt. All we wanted to Sylvester dominated center stage. They are not going to stand in judge­ do was get out!" Not too long ago, Sylvester, Izora and ment of what I have done. The Lord Three hours have passed since I first Martha all shared the spotlight center said, 'go into the vineyard and work.' met Izera and Martha. We have laugh­ stage-One Ton on each side of And whatever you reap, the Lord will ed, giggled and at times almost cried our Sylvester. They looked like a unit. Now, pay you. Not you. Not Izora. Not way through a maze of jokes, anecdotes at the Forum, Martha and [lOra were anybody else down here. So, what I'm and personal thoughts. But the question pushed off to the far left side of the waiting for is to get paid." of their future with or without Sylvester stage and none of the numbers worked Getting heavier into the topic, Izora still hangs in the air. "We can't predict right. Not even You Are My Friend. So­ voJu[lteers, "I came up around gay peo­ thc future," Izera says. "We might be meone had changed the chemistry. The ple. They called them happy. I don't like with Sylvester and we might not be. We act looked disjointed. The"family" had using the word gay, homosexual or les­ have to see where the record's go­ fallen apart. It was a visual letdown. bian. I came up around people, period. ing-the way the public accepts us." Have the Tons been pushed into the So Sylvester's lifestyle doesn't even What if you were offered a lot of money background? Have massive egos ruined bother me." to part company with Sylvester, I ask. what was once a unique musical and Says Martha: "There are a lot of dif­ "Well," Izora says, "it depends on what visual feast? Whatever the problem, one ferent lifestyles that I am not fond of, they are offering. I want other things thing is certain-like Mt. SI. Helens in but that's none of my business. You can besides just straight out money. J want Washington, nothing can stop Izora and be what you want, and I don't have to be some peace of mind. I don't mind sing­ Martha. They are "bustin' loose"-And involved. The business doesn't care ing and I don't mind working. I'm doing it's only the beginning. ie). anyway," she insists. "You can swing all these things now and I'm not getting from a chandelier and sing if it'll make paid. " money." I look around the hotel room and ask -Amadeo Richardson

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enlerrainme/ll 13 Music Review her return to the New York nightclub Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah scene, filled the Grand Finale to capacity Band-the group that four years ago every night of her recent two-week revolutionized the concep~ of disco in an Classical Corner engagement. Her stage presence remains exotic fusion of 40s big band be-bop Robert Shaw was in town with the a combination of natural ease and a sounds and distinctively danceable rhythms. Atlanta Symphony Orcbestra and wonderful sense of humor that delighted Kid Creole is in reality Darnell, and Chorus to perform the Verdi, Berlioz her adorant audience. Backed by a jazz along with Savannah alumnus "Sugar and Brahms Requiems for the Easter trio (including noted drummer Grady Coated" Andy Hernandez on vibes is season. Not being the most ardent Tate), Vaughan's voice is luxuriously accompanied by a four-piece band, a pedestrian-as the transit system was smooth with the ability to hit every an­ mysterious female vocalist dressed as a out-[ was able to only see the Verdi. ticipated note and draw it out into a hooded executioner, and two lovely The first subtle tones from the or­ thrilling scat crescendo. From the slow­ back-up ladies known as The Cocoanuts chestra brought a sense of great expecta­ ed down version of I've Got II Bad, to (dressed as Wilma Flintstone and Betty tions, which one could feel permeate the Jon Lucien's Gingy, to the definitive Rubble). Sounds bizarre? Well, Kid audience. The Requiem and Kyrie and rendition of Send In The Clowns, Sarah Creole and his Cocoanuts are-and very the following Dies lrae seemed to fulfill Vaughan proved that she is still a jazz successfully so. Singing a stylized blend those expectations, but the following sec­ vocalist in a category all her own. Her of disco and reggae, as well as the tions-there are seven in all-didn't engagement was such a stunning success Darnell-produced hit, Depuly oj Love, quite measure up to the intensity and that she is due to return to this West Side this wild rain forest vaudeville act is a passion the Dies Irae left us with. nitery in lare July. Don't miss this rare hot new group to be on the lookout for.ill Any conductor will have a problem treat. 'with Verdi's Requiem. How do you give -Mark Bego blood and thunder to the Dies Irae Three days before Studio 54 closed its without having what follows appear doors to the public, the legendary James anti-climactic. One solution is to have Brown presented his mesmerizing stage dramatic and full-throated soloists. This show in .a special midnight concert. ...March 12 marked the 25th anniver­ he did not have, with the exception of Although suffering from the loss of its sary of Charlie "Yardbird" Parker's Elizabeth Mannion, mezzo-soprano, liquor license, Studio 54 was packed death. The eminent altoman's contribu­ whose rich, dramatic voice, though muf­ with a lively group of rock and rollers, tions were feted at the Tin Palace, a fled in the medium range, was the best who came to witness the one and only funky Bowery jazz club that specializes suited to carry the opulence of the Re­ "Godfather of Soul" in action. in pure, virginal jazz improvisation. quiem to a just conclusion. The On one hand, the 1960s soul revue Tenorman Bill Saxton, pianist Kenny soprano, Phyllis Bryn-Julson had the formula of Brown's stage act is dated, Barron, bassist Bobby Cunningbam and most free and natural sound, but her tacky and pretentious-yet at the same drummer Payton Crossley, all virtuosos sense of urgency and fire; especially in time Brown himself is classic, ageless in their own right, flowed through a the closing Libera me, was just not and as outrageous as ever. To set the compilation of Parker classics, working there. Seth McCoy, tenor, and John landscape of contrasts, Brown's band weJl within the seemingly submerged Cheek, bass-both newcomers to the opened the show with instrumental ver­ Barron structures, to create an unforget­ Metropolitan Opera-sounded more sions of Alpert and Mangione hits that table bop performance... like extensions of each other. They both came across decidedly like M-O-R ...Sandi "Saundra" Hewitt, the sang as though they mutually clamped a muzak. Next, Brown's two back-up highly talented vocalist-wife of Teruo mini-vice around their vocal chords, ladies came out to a dull reworking of I Nakamura, recently made her comeback closing off the throat and losing half the Will SUf1live. Finally, after an obnoxious into the jazz-cabaret circuit in front of a resonance. M.C. incited the crowd to shout praises rather sparse Seventh Avenue South au­ The 300-voice chorus, though rousing for the star, Brown himself emerged. dience. Sandi, who has toured with Bub­ in the Dies Irae, also fizzle. Again, Shaw When the man is engulfed in his classics bling Brown Sugar, and who is had the problem of balancing the power like It's Too Funky In Here, It's a Man's somewhat of a household name in of all those voices against the com­ World or Papa's GOI A Brand New Bag, Japan, seems to be ready for the finicky parative delicacy of the soloists, not to time literally stands still. When the M.e. tastes of the sophisticated New York mention the weight and power of a full, comes out and twice places deifying jazz crowd ... passionate and beautiful symphony or­ velvet robes around Brown's shoulders ...New York's "high society" got a chestra. and demands we chant"James Brown, taste of jazz recently, as pianist George Shaw has always been a very musical James Brown," the magic wears thin. Shearing appeared at the posh, ritzy and sincere conductor and this perfor­ But then again, it's the same outlandish Cafe Carlyle. Shearing's unventuresome mance was well articulated, executed attitude that has made "The Sex renditions of standards were enough to and overall enjoyable. It just needed Machine" unique. As wild and crazy as keep the patrons subdued. The blind more spice and less nice and a better ever, James Brown is James Brown and London-born pianist can deliver the strategy to keep the intensity from sagg­ still a one-of-a-kind thrill to experience goods whether in a posh club or a West ing. But you can't have everything. Or in concert. Village be-bop hothouse... can you? ,I. ...Bang! Boom! and a little bit of In a musical revue entitled "Off The Bossa Nova just to be sure, and what do -Laconia Smedley Coast Of Me," August Darnell's latest you get? The six shooting, heavy-handed musical incarnation known as Kid drumming of Chico HamUton. The On Stage Creole and The Cocoanuts, has taken a legend in his own time appeared at the newly christened rock club, The 80s, and opening of a new Wednesday's-only jazz Known in musical circles as nothing the disco Magique, by storm. August, as club, Ipanema's, which most may recall short of "divine," Sarah Vaughan, in you remember, is one of the members of as being a Latin disco. Hamilton, who

14 ROUTES, A Gllide In Black Elllerrainmenf has been a survivor of the trends in jazz, horn or unfurles them, and chisels each totally awed the star-studded crowd with phrase like a master jeweller. Like all his rapid-fire, high-hat techniques and things beautiful, his music is never his ability to safely lead a young, am­ daled. bitious group into the jungles of im­ Dexter Gordon: The Best ofDexter Gor­ provisation and' then bring them don-Columbia JC 36356 back-intact. Hamilton fuses the If you've got a case of the blahs, rudimentary elements of funk with lhe there's nothing like a sizzling platter of easy listening melodies of bossa nova, to mouth-watering, nitty-gritty blues serv­ come out with a unique sound all his ed up by the one and only B.B. own. The only major flaw was the King-this time on an album recorded female vocalist who nc:ver really sings a live at the University .of Mississippi. word, and chose instead to blend with King is joined by an impressive retinue the reedman's tenor... , of musicians, arrangers, mixers and engineers. Laddled on the blues are -Darryle Alvin Hawes heaping spoonfuls of B.B.'s mellow rap-pure molasses. Lucille and the King groove all the way from Rock Me Records Baby to The Thrill Is Gone. Included in the musical feast are some Crusaders Smokey Robinson's latest album, tunes. The audience roars its approval. "Warm Thoughts" looks to be out of B. B. King is an institution and a season. With everyone's mind on the wonderful one at that. beach, the poet par excellence chooses to B.B. King: Now Appearing at Ole pose in fur coat amidst a cold wintry Roberta Flack: Featuring Donny Miss-MCA 2-8016 landscape. But, as they say, it's what's Hathaway-Atlantic SD 16013 in the groove that counts. Smokey h~s realized that ballads are what people With everyone proclaiming disco's La Sonora PODcena is a great Latin want from him. Therefore, he has demise, it's fun to listen to Dan Hartman band from Puerto Rico. Machito has followed up his smash single Crilisin' on his adventuous outing, "Relight My called the musical director, Papo Lucca, with a fine collection of ballads in the Fire. " the "daddy of them all," although this same vein. The album glides along sweet Dan is seeking to give disco a little daddy is barely thirty-three. This band melodies and subtle harmonies. The more than standard boom-boom, and bombs you with a ton of musical pellets. standout cut here is Smokey's composi­ has invited Stevie Wonder to assist, Ahara si starts with a trio of "batas," tion, Wine, Women and Song, which which the musical genius ably does', run­ the sacred Yoruba drums which nobody features his wife Claudette, whom I ning away with his harmonica on Hands has used in a jazz context before. Then haven't heard croon since the early Down. This one might be labeled the rhumba jumps out of the groove, I960s. Claudette's voice is smooth, easy disco/rock, but whatever the label, it is unleashing metals, skins and fire. Papo and warm and perfectly compliments an innovative look at a oftentimes Lucca also tackles Night In Tunisia, not her husband's. It's as if the two have mediocre medium. Hats off to John jazzy but "tipieo," as traditional Cuban been singing together for 20 years, which Luongo and Michael Barbiero, the mix­ music is called in Spanish-with a strong I presume, in their home at least, they ers. They have redeemed their souls after "clave" phrasing. Because of the abun­ have. putting out that horrible disco concoc­ dant cross-pollination between jazz and Smokey Robinsoh: Warm Thoughts tion, "ten Years Too Soon"-the disco Latin, jazz lovers should fee! at home - Tamla T8-367M I Sly Stone. with this record. Its arrangements are a As for Hartman, his voice is nothing rich source of inspiration. It is no big secret that Roberta Flack's to write home about and he should Sonors Poncena: New Heights-Inca career has been floundering. Her latest thank the Lord every night for sending JMIS 1074 production, featuring the late Donny him the buxom and fiery Loleatta Hathaway has broken the Spell. After Holloway to tear up the album's title Singer/percussionist Jose Mangual, several Iistenings, it has become obvious song. has released another fine salsa album. that it is Donny's voice that makes this Dan Hartman: Relight My Fire-Blue The personnel includes the fine flower of album come together. The once dynamic Sky J2 36302 ' Latin studiomen. While iess original duo glide through Stevie Wonder's You -Amadeo Richardson than La Sonora Poncena's album, Are My Heaven with all the convidion Mangual's production makes for perfect befitting a sincere relationship. Equally dancing as well as listening. If you are believable is Mtume's Back Together Equally high in quality is "The Best of not familiar with Mangual Jr., you Again. Dexter Gordon," part of a "Best Of" might want to listen to his previous ef­ Most of the other tunes on the album series just released by Columbia. The fort, "Tribute to Chana Poze." It has a are less inspired. I had high hopes for selections are culled from many of his jazzier feeling and features delightful God Don't Like Ugly, but the supposed previous albums, including, "LTD," samba. Latin, of course, is giving fusion gospel flavor is more Anglican than "Body and Soul," and "The Moon­ a run for its money. Mangual will give southern Baptist. Roberta never really trane." The personnel on this collection you an edge on the game. gets off the ground and lier vocals are are also veterans; Woody Shaw, Louis Jose Mangual; Jose Mangual- Velvet beginning to sound somewhat bored. Hayes, Frank Wess, Benny Bailey, JOO9ill This album's worth it if only for Donny Goerges Cables. You can't help but love Hathaway's memory. the way Dexter curls notes around his -Isabelle Leymarie-Ortiz

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enlertainmel1l 15 MUSIC LISTINGS May 16,8 pm Vince Giordano May 26 Ihru Jun 21 Wee I Boondock CONCERTS FesU.sl 01 Drums Tu 9pm-l am Tenlh Avf171h SI Jerome Coopef The Stan Ruben Tony Terlnl Trio 929·9645 0lalma Correa & Swing Band Mon-Sat, 5·9 pm BoletrofTho·Saramaka & Wed French Quarter Wesl End Cale -Jazz Dluko MUllelan. 01 SalVaged Jose Mella 2911 Broadway Surinam Th Mon·Sal 7·11 pm 666·9180 Barry Harrla May 17,8 pm John Booker Lions Share & HI. Trio Symphony Space Fri The Sheraton Centre • Manhattan/Eastelde May 11 95th StlBroadway Bob Cantwell Sevenlh Avl52nd St & Oownlown Manna House 865·2557 Sal 581·1000 WOlkshops Inc. Sol Vaged Ouartel AlI'e Alley 338 East 106 SI Rick Jame. Sun brunch -New Jersey 77 Greene St 722·8223 Prince Sot Vagad 228-9042 May 2 & 3, 8 pm Sun Gulliver's Eiliol Sharpe Spyro Gyro Red Blazer Too 82\ McBride Av Drewlng Room May 3 May 17,8 pm Third AvlS81h SI West Paterson 510 Greenwich St Da•• Burrell Beacon Thealre 876-0440 (201) 684·9589 431·9478 May 9 741h SIIB'way Sironl 874·1718 Me. Klrnlnoky Jen Emporium May 10 Sun·Tu Flflh Avl121h SI Jimmy lyono Roy Eldrldga 675·4720 May 16 JAZZ Wed·Sal Rephe Malik ------Jimmy Ryans JAZZ CLU BS AN 0 Jezz Mania Society May 17 154 W. 541h SI CABARETS 14 E. 23rd 51 Tetouye Nekemura 664-9700 477-3077 May 23 Ha.el Scott Peter Po n201 Tu·5at Arthur Prysock Knickerbocker Seloon • Men hollen/Uplown SU.la Zehn Tony Reynolds Thru May 3 9th StlUniversily PI & Weslslde Coco Arregu I Sun-Mon Anile b'Dey 228-8490 May 24 Ali Saba May 5-24 Angry Squire Jim Seut.r First Avl591h 51 Mel Torme ledles Fort Don Dlatrlch 688·4710 May 26·Jun 14 216 Sevenlh Av 2 Bond 51 242·9068 Donald Miller Marly'. 475-9357 Brie n Doherty Della Griffen Third Av/73rd SI Brad Or.v•• Th·Sun 249·4100 lelnle's Room Rolph Blouvalt Blue BoOk Playboy CI ub May 31 710 SI Nicholas Av Bunky Grean Brody'e 5 E. 59th 51 Soundscape 694·9465 Thn) May 3 798 Columbus Av 752-3100 500 W. 52nd 51 MIckey 80BS 850·4400 581-7032 HaBth Brolhers May 11 &. 12 MolI.ellons May 2 Sonny Fortune Clifford's Lounge 476 Broome 51 'Pop The Boltom LI ne May \3 & 17 151 W.72nd 51 228·2108 15 West 41h 51 George Brellh 874-8586 Billy Eckatlne 228-6300 May 18 & 19 New Rican Village Thru May 11 Cherlle Rouoel Eddie Condon'a 101 Av A Grand Finale Nellie Luteh., Lonnl. Hillyer Oulntel 144 W.541h 51 475-9505 210 W. 70lh SI Thru May 31 May 20·24 265-8277 362·6079 D.,oanell. Melochal Thompeon Sun only Ihru May 4 May 25 & 28 4811 W. Broedway EBrl Klugh CBIOI Siosn Sweet Basil 468 W. Broadway -Oueens May 10 Sun only May 11-31 88 Sevenlh Av So 280·6799 Nency WHeon The Cookery 242·1785 May 24, 9:30 pm 21 Un/,ersHy PI Hartem Perlormlnee Echo 137-35 Northern Blvd Gil Scott-Heron 874·4450 Syncopation Cenler Flushing, Queens May 31, 8:30 pm 15 Waverly Place Sevenlh Av/l371h 51 961-1111 Avery Fleher Hall Art Peppe, 228·8032 862-3000 Lincoln Cenler Thru May 3 Gerolds 65SIIB,oadway Sam RI.elS Village Gele Mikell's 227-02 Linden Blvd 580·9830 May 6-10 Bleecker and 780 COlumbus Av 732·8590 Chico Froem Bn Thompson Sts 864-8832 Jazz Fri·Sat The C rUSlders May 13,17 GR5-5120 & Randy CrBwford Gerry lI'Iulilgan Sha.Sha Hou.e May 7, 7 & 10 pm May 20·24 Tha Red Rooney 338 W.391h St Ca rnegi e Hall Bon nle K...el & & John Suiliven 736·7547 881 Sevenlh Av Herb Ellis May 8 NEW ACTS AND 398·8750 Moy 27-31 Mal Lowls & Studio Wls SHOWCASES Fal Tuesday's His Orchestra 151 W.21.t 51 Dionne Warwick 190 Third Av May 12 243·9278 May 13·18 533·7902 Elvin Jonle Tho Bushes Tom Jones May 13·18 Sweet Besll 23W.73St May 23-Jun 1 Loumell Morgon Bobby HUleherson 88 Sevenlh Av So. 874·8091 Weslbury Music Fair Man-Sal. May 20-25 242·1785 Brush HOllow Road 7 pm'10 pm Mal Lewis & Weslbury Alliia Zoll., His Orchestra 15161333·0533 Man, 10 pm·3 am May 26 Chuck Wayna Trio Bill E.ens & His Trio Shirley BUBey Tu, \0 pm-3 am May 27·Jun 8 MAGAZINE & NEWSLETTER SAMPLES,.. only 50' May 8·11 Joe Pum 0 Trio Village Vanguard each. Over t45 publications, covering 8 wide "mge of In. The Dick CI ark Wed·Sun 178 Seventh Av So lerests, to chooSl: From, For free descrlplive Us. send a Weslchesler Theelre Gregory's 255·4037 800 White Plains Ad 1149 Flrsl Av stamped addressed envelope 10 Publishers Excbange, P .0, Tarrylown 371·2220 Slide Hamplon Quertet Box 1368, Dept. 192A, Plainfield, NJ 07061 (914)631-9100 Thru May 24, 9 pm-I am Lynn Oliver Richerd Sucheltel Woody Sho .. Man Qulntat

/6 ROUTES, A Guide (() Black Enlerralnmel1l THEATRE

@ OFF BROADWAY: t2 BLACK THEATRE LIVES: ~(J

"Broadway does not want our blackness, wasn't designed or in­ tended for it, definitely doesn't wanl any strange new forms in­ spired by that very blackness. She is a contented, fat, white cow. If you can slip in and milk her for a minute-well, then, more power to you, brother. But we're telling you-it's a weird price she's ask­ ing. She wants you to be a singing hyena, dancing on the graves of yourself and everyone you know. "

hese words were written ten years 1 East l04th Street. It was at her theatre, Culture and Art (RACCA) at 36 West Tago by Woodie King and Ron now housed in an old school building, 62nd Street. Their recent season includ­ Milner in their Introduction to Black that the hit musical "Bubbling Brown ed a stunning production of Drama Anthology, May 1970. We might Sugar" was first conceived. Such small "Antigone," the classic drama by the express them differently now, maybe use companies are the stepping stones, the Greek writer and philosopher, a more sophisticated tone for the 19805. training and grooming grounds for skill, Sophocles. Why a Greek play for a black But the message is the same. Fact is-in experience and exposure to someday theatre company? Manager Ty Collins

the past 25 years, there have been only make it in the "big time. II But that does explains. "We are moving into the realm three commercially successful black not compromise the quality or profes­ of multi-cultural experiences for wide dramas on Broadway: "Raisin in the sionalism of the plays because many of audiences. We do one of the classics Sun," "The River Niger," and "For the shows that go on to Broa;dway were every season. ', Colored Girls Who Have Considered born in off-Broadway theatres. In "Antigone" brought together Suicide When the Rainbow is EnuL" theatres like these you could see the Trazana Beverly, the Tony Award winn­ This excludes musicals and revivals of works before the Broadway ing Lady in Red from "For Colored plays with all-black casts. But overall, theatres-"Don't Bother Me, I Can't Girls... ," as Antigone, and Arthur for some depth in history and ex­ Cope," "For Colored Girls.... " Burghardt from television's "One Life periences of Black America, one must "Mighty Gents," and "The River to Live" as Creon, the King of Thebes. look elsewhere. Niger. II The Richard Allen Center also pro­ However, we don't have to go far. Douglas Turner Ward, artistic direc­ duced last year's first Black Theatre There are several off and off-off tor of the Negro Ensemble Company, Festival, USA, which brought together Broadway theatres around the city, (NEC) at the St. Marks Playhouse, 133 dance and theatre companies, choirs, sometimes, in places where you'd least Second Avenue, says, "We wouldn't be musicians and singers from across the expect them. They live up to the ideal of here today if it hadn't been for what c04ntry for a month-long celebration at producing high quality and meaningful happened in the streets in the 60s. Black Lincoln Center. The second festival is shows reflecting the many realities of theatre sprung up with the rise and ex­ set for this spring and will include the black life, black theatre and black art. plosion of black peoples' struggles and Nigerian National Theatre, the "These theatres open the doors to insistence on eq1.!aJity in all areas of life. 1amaican National Dance Theatre and teach aspiring young people of all ethnic for their rights and liberation from their others. backgrounds and give them an area to past of slavery and servitude." The Frank Silvera Writers Workshop experiment under workshop con­ (FSWW) is nurturing plays, mostly by ditions," says Rosetta LeNoire, director Among the many off-Broadway black playwrights. Twice a week, the of the AMAS Repertory Theatre, Inc. at outlets is the Richard Allen Center for manuscripts of established, as well as the

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black EnterrainmenJ 17 works of promising newcomers are read will celebrate its II th anniversary with a dent producers can afford to shell out by professional actors at the workshop production of the new musical, "Whirl­ $60,000 for one television commercial, loft at 317 West l25th Street. Richard wind," written and developed by Ex­ while the smaller theatres have little Wesley's "The Mighty Gents" and A. ecutive Producer Barbara Ann Teer. more to go on but private support and Marcus Hemphill's innovative "Inna­ The musical focuses on the career of a mercifully meager federal grants. cent Black and the Five Brothers" were black woman and her special relation­ But all of off-Broadway's actors, pro­ read at the FSWW before moving on to ship with a highly volatile political ac­ ducers, directors and stage hands agree other theatres across the country. tivist. that there is a cultural gold mine to be The Black Spectrum Theatre at 205-21 Most of these theatres make it their found. And you'll walk away from Linden Boulevard, St. Albans, reminds business to steer clear of the "theatre of many a performance a much richer per­ us once again that Queens is not the despair,"-t.hose plays that t.ell stories son (with a pocketbook not as strained cultural desert it is often thought to be. we know all too well-of the wino, the as on the Great White Way). You might One of their latest productions has been dope dealer, the prostitute, and the well see the next Broadway smash hit for "Precious Lee," set in pre-Civil War pimp. $3-with the same cast! America, which deals with the life of a But the dark cloud hanging over the Woodie King and Ron Milner had a black family and also examines the in­ future of a bright and ambitious black point to make. But talented and am­ dignity and trauma of rape that was so theatre is one that threatens to rain on bitious theatre people are taking past often imposed on slave women. most of us: lack of money and support. problems into account only to look op­ The AUDELCO award winner, That accounts for the small casts, sparse timistically into the future "Deadwood Dick or That Went sets and meager salaries if any at all. It's Thataway" was born here. no picnic, we are told, to compete for This year, the National Black Theatre audiences when Broadway and indepen- -Sharon Y. Lopez

~heatreReview

...Sherman Hemsley of the television You Get The More You Want." Dan digaJ son, only here it's a daughter, hit series, "The Jeffersons," returns to Owens wrote the show, which is current­ Faith Brown, who seeks to learn her Broadway May 8 in Carl Reiner's "The ly running at the Black Theatre Alliance native reggae traditions in order to fill Roast," at the Winter Garden Theatre. through May 11. It showcases the talents the coffers of an American record com­ Hemsley, a New York stage veteran, was of Ben Harney, the tinman in "The pany.

last seen in "Purlie."... Wiz t " Charles Lavonl Williams, the The dreary plot aside, the show, ... "Swing," the big band musical that scarecrow from the same musical, and directed by Glenda Dickerson, comes was supposedly Broadway bound, clos­ Pat Lundy, who was last seen in 'Miss alive in the musical segments that are ed out-of-town before its scheduled mid Truth." ... mercifully numerous. Seven people April opening in New York. The show ... While on the street life subject, wrote the music and lyrics to the show's bowed out March 30 after having suf­ "Dementos," a musical documentary, songs, alternately driving and very fered poor notices in Washington and had its March opening at off-Broad­ Broadway. even though there is not a lot Wilmington, Delaware. We are told that way's Downstairs at City Center of diversity within these two categories. the four black lead parts were postponed because of budget pro­ But the music is performed so well "omitted" from the script due to blems... that, taken as individual units, it pro­ changes in "creative staging." The show -Raymond Patterson vides enough excitement to make you was directed by Stuart Ostrow, who want to get up and move-which the au­ previously produced the Broadway "In the beginning was the rhythm," dience does at the end of the show. the smash, "Pippin."... we were told in "Reggae," which as rousing finale appears to be a ...For those who wondered what hap­ soon as it opened, waged a battle for its trademark of producer Michael Butler, pened to Ruth Cooke, the female lead in very life. The likes of Jackie 0 didn't who also ended tbe legendary musical "Reggae," the former Miss Jamaica was know if they would tell friends to go see "Hair" with a bang. It's as if Butler fired from the show during its preview the performance the next week, thinking cap't produce a show without turning it run at the Biltmore Theatre... it would be dead by then . into a bash. Bu! this one's a party you ... "Censored Scenes from King Perhaps it is because the staid, won't want to miss. Kong," the Broadway import from middle-class, middle-aged community of The vocals are for tbe most part fine. England, opened and quickly closed critics could not connect with it on any Philip Michael Thomas, one of God's after receiving unanimous pans in late level, and thus dismissed it on most. greatest examples of manhood, displays March. Edward Love, who has perform­ "Reggae" is far from a masterpiece, but a musi~al talent many people weren't ed in "A Chorus Line," "Dancin'," it is enchanting, lilting, and as tlavorful really awar~ of. If occasionally he gets and' 'The Wiz," was featured in the cast as planter's punch. "the spirit" too much, it is compensated as a bi-sexual Dooley Wilson-type The script repeats the often-told tale by his clear delivery, magnetic move­ character... of the successf41 young woman who ments and earnestness. ... Moving off Broadway, noted returns to her roots and find~ no com­ Sheryl Lee Ralph as Faith, has watch­ choreographer Otis Salid and director munication (As in "Mahagony," ed too much Diana Ross, but still, she's Lucia Victor lent their talents to yet remember?). She has drifted away from beautiful and gives the role the old another musical fable-This time about the one she loved. She is a stranger in a school try. She may not make it as an ac­ present day city life, entitled "The More strange land-much like the biblical pro- tress, but for this party, or any other,

18 ROUTES, A Gllide {() Black Entertainment ~.sTAR·O·.sCOPE FOR MAY ~ ~ she's great. ~ i .;. ~ The standout in this cast is un­ V ....d;;Y ¥- a .;r *...d;;Y ¢! doubtedly Obba Babatonde, as Rockets, NEED SOME LOVE AND STROKING THIS MONTH... SUGGEST SOME EXCITING ENTERTAINMENT AT: the villian. He makes the season's most convincing-and sympathetic-bad guy, ~~·Vle.llI.rJM Filir~¥ and both he and Martin Vidnovic of ••il "Oklahoma!" should be remembered come Tony time. Babatunde is electri­ FRI., MAY 9 thru SUN .• MAY 11 fying and surpasses anything he has done, including "Timbuktu" and his stint with Lila Minelli. In the event that "Reggae" should continue its run and get more con­ voluted than it should to tell its simple tale, let it. Music, as is its wont, will rescue.rn -Curt Davis

GRAPHIC CITY~ THE SPINNERS A Full Service For Graphics Come On Down maybe we can help PHYLLIS you make up your

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L- ~.....W-~!H~~!!'E.~!P~.~!N~~!~ _I------J ROUTES, A ell/de to Black Entertainment 19 LISTINGS 240 W. 47th SI 662·8463 ON BROADWAY 757·7164 Thru May 18.

Okl.hom.1 Bteck aroedwsy Pe lace Thealre Town Hall A Chorus Line 1564 Broadway 123 W. 43rd 5t Shubert Thealre 757·2626 Thru May 24 225 W. 441h Sl 840·2824 246·5990 On Golden Pond Century Thealre Int.rnatlon.1 Parlormlng Aln'l Mlab.h.vln' 235 W. 461h St Art. Festival Plymouth rheatre 354·6644 Lincoln Center 236 W. 451h St Vivian Beaumont and 730·1760 Oklahoma' Mitzi E. Newhouse Palace Theatre Theelers ...Spring has swept away the last rem­ Annl. 1546 BrOadway 65th SliBWay nants of winter to make way for the Alvin Theatre 757·2628 580·9830 250 W. 52nd 5t May 4·Jun 8. greening of Gotham. Dance rehearsal 757·8646 PUI T.n•• studios all over town are packed with Circle In lhe SQuare Lee Blenc. e.mum SOlh 51 W. 01 BWay AMOA Studio One ballerinas and their partners as they SI. James Theatre 977-9020 Theatre sharpen their technique, practice turns 44th 5t W. of BWay Ansonle Holel 398·0280 P.t.r Pen BWayl73rd 51 and leaps-all in preparation for the big Lunt·FontaMe Thealre 246-8484 spring dance season in New York City. e.nl 461h Sl W. at B'wey Thru May 10 This year's spring brings to New York New ApOllO Theatre 586·5555 234 W. 43rd Sl FOB (Fresh Off the BOil) some of the most important dance com­ 921·8558 R.dlo Clly Mualc H.II Mertlnson Hall panies to be found anywhere in the SOth SllAv of the Americas Opens May 27 B.tr.y.1 246·4600 Sunday Runn.rs United States. Where but in New York Tralalgar Thealre In Ih. Rlln can you see the American Ballet 41s1 51 W. 01 Bway Rom.nllc Com.dy Anspacher Theatre Theatre, the Ailvin Ailey dancers and 92t·8000 Barrymore Molh.r Courage 243 W. 47th SI Newman Thealre the New York City Ballet all within the Children of a L••••r God 246·0390 The Music Le..ona same month! ... Longacre TheeI re Tu-Sun. 8 pm 220 West 481h SI Sirld.r Sat, Sun Mat, 3 pm ...The New York City Ballet returns 246·5839 Helen Heyes Thealre Se.n•• From The to the New York Stale Theater at Lin­ 210 W. 46th 51 Ev.ryday Life D.ncln' 246·6380 Other Stage coln Center for what promises to be a Broadhursl Thealre Opens May 6. glorious two-month engagement April 235 W. 44th St Sugar S.bln The Public Theat re 29-June 29. 247·4636 MarK Hellinger Thealre 425 Lelayette SI 51st St W. of Bwey 598·71SO ...The City Dance Center remains alive D••lhlrap 239·7177 Th.lnl.....I.w with the best in contemporary American Music Box Theatre Nat Horne Theatre 239 W. 451h Sl Sw••ney Todd 440 W. 42nd SI dance. The Paul Taylor Dance Com­ 246·4636 Uris Theatre 362·0470 Thru May 4. pany has been in residence since the mid­ 51s1 5t W. at B'way Evlla 586·65tO T.mbourln.s To Glory dle of April and will be followed by the Broadway Thealre Billie HOliday Theatr. Alvin Ailey Dance Company, which 1681 Broadway T AII.y's Folly 1368 Fulton 51. opens a three-week engagement May 7. 247·3600 Brooks Atkinson Thealre 636·0919 256 Wesl 471h 51 Previews May 1. Opens For those who missed their last season, Gemini 245·3430 May 16. the company remains a one-of-a-kind Lillie Theatre 240 W. 44th St The B.st LI ttle Whorehouee DANCE troupe, with stars like Judith Jamison 221·6425 In Teu. 46th SI Theatre Donna Wood, Dudley Williams and Bertram Ro.a Dance Co. GOodbye Fidei 226 W. 46th SI May 1,2.3 & 4.8 pm Clive Thompson, along with newcomer Ambassador Thea"e 246'()246 Daniel Clark and Dance Theatre of 215 W. 49th SI Ibrehlm Ferran Ne.r Easl Dance Group 54t·6490 Th" Elephenl M.n Harlem alumnus, Roman Brooks. The May 7. 9. 8 pm Booth Thealre May 11.2 pm Ailey team recently completed a cross­ arease 222 W. 451h Sl Rod ROdgere D.nc. Co. country and Canadian tour, and it will Mejesllc Theatre 246·5969 247 W. 44th Sl May 8. 10 & 11 at 6 pm be fun to welcome them back... 246·0730 Berbara RoanlParad.. snd They're Playing Our Song O.ne.s ... AII eyes are awaiting the season Imperlel Theatre Happy N.w Year May 14, 16 & 18 al 8 pm. 45th StlWest of B'way opener of the American Ballet Theatre Marasco Theatre Bill Evan. Oence Company 265·4311 at the Met next month. A who's who of 217 W 45th 5t May15&1 7 a18pm 248·6230 May 18 at 2 pm the dance and theatre world will be on West Sid" Siory Cleud. Klpnl. Mime Theelr. Mlnskoff Theatre hand to welcome back the cream of Horns May 21 8. 23 at 6 pm 45 SIIB'way Cart Theatre May 25 al 2 pm American dancers, who recently settled B69.()550 138 W. 481h 5t ConenlSuzeeu their strike against the ABT manage­ 489·6392 May 22, 24 & 25 al 8 pm Whose L11e Is II Anyway Opens May 7. Th. Bernhard B.II.t ment. We'll expect to see great things Roya Ie TheaIre May 28. 29.30 8. 31 al 8 pm 242 W. 451h 51 from Anne Benna Sims, the ABT's only I Oughl To Be In Pictures Thealre 01 Ihe 245·5760 black ballerina who kept in shape during Eugene O'Neili Theatle Riverside Church 120lh SI/Riverslde Dr the strike, walking the picket line and 220 West 49th SI 246·0220 864·2929 performing with the Puerto Rican Dance OFF BROADWAY Mumm.nschanl Paul leylor Dlnee Co. Theatre. The ABT will premier at the Bllou Thealre May 4 Met May 5. The company will be in 209 W. 45th 51 An E.enlng with Alvin Alley Dance Co. residence through July 12, Mon-Sat 221·8500 Josephine Baker May 7·May 25 Leonard Davis Center City Center evenings and matinees on Saturday... Ohl Calcullel In Aaron Davis Hall 131 W. 551h SI Edison Theatre W. 1341h SllConvenl Av 246·8989

10 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Blnck F.lllerW;nm;>nl LAWANDA PAGE: MEDIA ESTHER AND THE SNAKE So to be different, LaWanda, actually would pull out a long, clinging boa con­ strictor and let the awesome creature crawl around her body as she danced. So the man at the hamburger stand was right after all. But he apparently only knew half the story. Always searching for something new to attract paying customers, she decided to stuff flaming, oil-dipped sticks down her throat-the age old circus fire eating trick. One night while on tour in Australia, LaWanda, somewhat bored with the regular routine of fire one night and snake the next, decided, for a little varie­ ty. to eat fire with the Boa wrapped around her neck. Ohi Bad move. "The boa didn't like the fire and bit me!" she exclaimed. "So I decided that was the end of that and I killed that sucker right there in Melbourne, Australia. You better believe that, honey!" A trip to Los Angeles, around 1952, brought her (0 the Brass Rail, a famous West Coast stop on the Chitlin' Circuit, where black entertainers such as Redd FoX)( would make regular visits. LaWan­ da met Redd there and also the comedy l.aWonda Page team of Skillet and Leroy. Both relation­ omeone once told me that a man at After Aunt Esther arrived in the ships would turn into fruitful associa­ Sa hamburger stand somewhere near cramped and over-crowded living room tions. Sl. Louis, knew that LaWanda Page used of Fred Sanford, she took advantage of At first, her stint at the Brass Rail was to be a snake dancer before she took on so many moments, giving us such fire limited to dancing, until the day the club the role of Aunt Esther, Redd Foxx's and brimstone, it made one won­ owner noticed how LaWanda was crack­ punching bag in the television hit series der-whose show is this anyway? ing up the professional comics backstage "Sanford and Son." Which brings us to the question; Who with her earthy, dry, sense of humor. For anyone who has watched her per­ is LaWanda Page anyway? So, as was to be expected, the owner form, it has become quite obvious that Her story begins in Cleveland, Ohio, made her add a stand-up comedy routine she is not just another sit-com personali­ where she was born October 19, 1920. to her role as a member of the chorus ty, but, in fact, a character actress. But As far back as she can remember, line, and also demanded a dance solo snake dancer, that was a new one. LaWanda "was entertaining people," spot-all for $125 a week. Actresses like LaWanda Page move in although it was not as a comedianne. "That money was for working seven and out of television and film with a "I was always dancing then," she told nights a week. From 9 pm til2 am and a quiet ease, bringing a ready-made per­ Routes. "Just dancing away. Me and matinee on Sunday. 1 worked there for sona with them to every project. And four other children used to dance on 15 years and 1 earned every penny of throughout their career they perform street corners during the Depression for that money. The Brass Rail is gone variations on that particular characteriz­ a nickel or dime. I would dream about now," she noted with a tone whose am­ tion. being in show business. Like I was biguity left you guessing was it "ah" or For the most part, they are supporting Cinderella in a story book. I thought I'd "good riddance." "Got burned down in players orbiting around a star, giving reach it through dancing." the 1967 Watts riot." help or hell. When the family moved to St. Louis In retrospect, having been shoved into LaWanda Page, of course, has in the late J940s, LaWanda's career as a the comedy spot was the best thing that brought a lot of "hell" to the screen professional entertainer began to take could have happened to LaWanda. "I through her strong presence and a shape. "I only danced at first, but as was nervous when I first started, but truckload of talent so well honed that time went on I had to add more to my soon I felt very comfortable doing it. [ she bursts out of the constraints of the act. Customers would come back and teamed up with Skillet and Leroy, play­ character to become a star in her own they didn't wanna see the same old ing a character very similar to Aunt right. thing. " Esther. "

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enter{(linment 21 It was during those years with the popular comedy duo that she developed the timing and physical actions that made Aunt Esther an irresistible riot. LaWanda admitted that Aunt Esther is really her, but she made a clear distinc­ tion. "Aunt Esther is a religious fanatic. LaWanda Page is deeply religious. I'm a Baptist and believe deeply in God. My late brother Sam Johnson (a bit player on the old Dean Martin show) was a Baptist minister. But Esther is just an ex­ aggeration of that feeling. She reminds you of a lot of people, just taken a bit further. " There are a number of stories that have sought to explain how LaWanda, the snake dancer, became Aunt Esther, the religious protagonist, on "Sanford and Son." NBC's version, contained in a press release circa 1974, claimed that producer Aaron Russo was uncertain about casting LaWanda even though FoX)( had recommended her for the part. However, says NBC, when Russo saw LaWanda's act at a Los Angeles club, he found her to be "perfect" for the role. LaWanda, however, tells a slightly different story. "Redd definitely recom­ mended me, but he did more than that. When some of the producers weren't sure about using me, Redd said he would quit the show' if I didn't get the part. (Atactic he used often to get his way detectives in the series "Detective scheduled. That's all still being with the NBC brass). He put that show School." She has also guested on many negotiated," a coy Miss Page said. on the line for me and I'll never forget television shows, including the Bob Meanwhile, she'll just sit it out in her

him for it. II Newhart Special and on a charity Los Angeles home, which she says is Regardless of which story you want to celebrity roast of Steve Allen. "I never located in "Beverly Watts." believe, fact is that with LaWanda as lived better in my life than I do now," New show or not, LaWanda, who has part of the Sanford household, the show LaWanda explained. "I used to make been widowed three times and has two was number one or close to it for almost $125 a week. Now 1 spend that much in daughters, one of them adopted, can't all of its five-and-a-half-year run on one day." well escape the image of herself that has NBC. The happy marriage ended, due in She's just released an album on the been embedded in the minds of millions

part, perhaps to the swelled heads that Laff label, entitled, "Sane Advice. II of television viewers. Even as the clumsy the Nielsen ratings had helped to create LaWanda described it as "a religious sleuth in the "Detective School," one among the folks at the junk store. Foxx comedy album. It's clean, but fun, with would sit and wonder when she would decided to try his hand at a variety show facts about welfare mothers and other pullout her bible and preach. for ABC, which he quickly found to things like that. My writer, Mel Chase, "I tell you baby," she explained, "I have been a big mi~take. Demond wrote it so that the material can be don't have a private life anymore. Peo­ Wilson did not help matters much when edited for use in churches, school rooms ple are always coming up and calling me he asked for more money, per episode, and night clubs." What LaWanda Aunt Esther. Just the other day I was in than NBC was ready to pay. Wilson doesn't mention, although it is hinted in the bank taking care of some business later met his Waterloo on CBS in the the reference to "clean," is that there and this woman just had to have my short-lived sit-com, "Baby, I'm Back." are a few people who have a copy of an autograph. Now I don't mind signing, LaWanda, apparently the only one album of not so clean religiousmaterial but not when I'm in the bank. I was nice loyal to the make-believe family living which is said to have been recorded by about it though, but I sure had to bite among the rusted "antiques" of San­ LaWanda Page. But then again, we all my tongue at the time." ford's Watts establishment, tried to keep know, and some of us even have, those Oh, LaWanda, I know better than the chemistry going on the spin-off dirty little albums of Redd Foxx's that that. Now just who was it that once said, series, "Sanford Arms." But even her OUf parents carried home in plain brown "I don't mind being asked for inspired irrascibility couldn't hold things wrappers. But who talks about that autographs. It's when they don't ask together. anymore? anymore that I get worried." LaWanda No one, however. should feel sorry for The big thing in LaWanda's life now can still count herself among the for­ LaWanda Page. With a unique bundle is a possible CBS comedy series, entitled tunate. And most importantly, we of talent like hers, she'll always find "Rejoice." Not surprisingly it's to be a haven't heard the last of this lady. Ir~ work. Most recently, she was part of a religious comedy with Linda Hopkins as team of comic lawyers and amateur co-star. "I can't say when it will be -Nelson George

22 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black EnTertainment MEDIA LISTINGS Mey 2, 9 pm: Bloom In love May g. George B. Schller, Sales TELEVISION May 3, 9:30 pm: Ann Margaret Special BlologiSI May 4, 8 pm: Bailie of the Network Stars May 12·18, Pauline Kael, Critic· Five May 4, 10 pm: John Rilier pan interview SpecieIs: May 5, 9 pm: The Minnesota Strip May 19, WlllIem Slyron, Aulhor. PI May 9, 9 pm: The Love Tepes May 20, William Styron, P. II ·Channel 2 May 11, 7 pm: The Relurn at Ihe King May 21, les Bsllets Trocedero. P. I May 8, 9 pm: Like Mom, Like Me May It, 9 pm: Angel on My Shoulder May 22, Les Ballets Trocadero, P. 11& May 7, 8 pm: The Memory of Evra Ryker May 14,8 pm: Mysterle. of lhe Sea Diana Rigg, Actress May 8, 8 pm: Netlonal Collegiale May 18, 9 pm: looking for Mr. Goodbar May 23, John Kennelh Galbraith. Author, Cheerleader Championships May 19, 10 pm: Barry Manllow Special Economist May 17, 9 pm: Wild Wild West Revisiled May 20, 9 pm: See HOW She Runs ·Channel 9 Odyssey: May 21, 8 pm: Bugs Bunny's Busllng May 4, The Inca9 May 5, 12, t9 26, 8 pm: Hollywood· The Oul All Ovar May 11, Ongka'a Big Moka Sllenl Film Era May 21, 9 pm: The Grass Is Always May 18, Other Paople'9 Garbage May 12, 9 pm: The Ice Man Comelh. Part , Greener Ovar the Septic Tank Mey 25, Maasal Women May 22. 8 pm: A Decade of the Wallons May 19, 9 pm: The Ice Man Cometh. Part II May 28, 8 pm: 51. Jude Telethon May 24. 8 pm: Snoopy Come Home Non·Fictlon Television May 27. 9 pm: Tha Henderson Monster May 28, 8 pm: The Incredible Journey of ·Channel 11 May 2, Q. 16: On Company 8uslness Dr. Mclaurel May 23: Alaska-Technology and Time May 4, 9 pm: The Presidents: 80 Years May 30: Plea Bargaining ·Channel5 on Camera. Part I May 3. 3 pm: America's Athletes 1980 May 4, 5 pm: Dallas Open Tennis RADIO May 3, 4 pm: Black Swan Tournamenl May 3. 8 pm: Star Tracks May 8,9 pm: Highlights of Ihe Frederick May 4, 9 pm: Olympiad Douglass Awards Dinner WINS·AM 1010 May 4, 3 pm-Dionne Warwick Interview May 7, 8 pm: Wollman Jack Special May t2, 8 pm: The Dream Merchanls, P. I May 7, 9 pm: Nallonal Geogrephlc May .19, 8 pm: The Dreem Merchante, P. II May 18, 5 pm: That'. Entertainment: Mey 29, 8 pm: Miss America Pageant Pink Panther Special FILMS May 21,8 pm: David Susskind· Male ·Channel13 Strippere, Female Wrestlers DIck Cavell 7 pm: Studio Museum In Herlem Film Festivsl May 24, 4 pm: Caplain From Castille May 8: Jorge Louis· "Borges" Poet & Author Harlem Siale Office Building May 28. 8 pm: Hawaii May 7, Dorothy loudon. Actress 125th SIIAdam Claylon Powell Blvd ·Channnel7 May 8, Ed Asner, Actor For ;nlormalion: 427·5959.

Media Review

...A decade ago this month, some Photography Exhibit of Our Own" Nunez. '''This diary is an incisive 10,000 documents belonging to the late ($4.50). Copies can be obtained from description of the life of an American Marcus Garvey, founder of modern Pan Mothers, Inc., 823 Ronalds Street, Iowa Indian feminist, lecturer on Indian African nationalism, were found in an City, Iowa 52240.... rights. spiritualist, and self-taught artist. abandoned building in Harlem. Garvey ...A look at women during the She died in 1972 at the age of 84 ... came to this country in the 1930s to Revolutionary War is offered in "Clio ...Howard University Press Book organize black Americans into a "Back Was A Woman: Studies in the History Publishing Institute will offer a five­ to Africa" movement. Many' black of American Women," edited by Mabel week intensive course to acquaint Americans continue to strengthen the E. Deutrich and Virginia C. Purdy. students with the basics of book emotional ties to Africa. A book to be (Howard University Press, 360pp, publishing. The course will run from included as a collector's item of African $19.95 cloth). This book examines the May 27 through July 2. For information history is "Unity And Struggle," Woman's Land Army, black women, write to Program Director, Howard speeches and writings by AmiJcar Indian women, female abolitionists, and University Press Book Publishing In­ Cabral, (Monthly Press, 298pp, $16.60 provides information on where to find stitute, 2900 Van Ness Street, N,W., hardcover). Cabral, assassinated in out more about women in American Washington, D.C. 20008 ... 1973, was the leader who launched a history.. , movement that liberated Guinea-Bissau ...A collection of short stories chosen -Amanda Anderson from Portuguese colonialism... to reflect the efforts of black women to ...Back on the Western front, we have liberate themselves is contained in LITTLE DARLINGS-Paramount Pic­ "I'm Alive," an autobiography by "Midnight Birds, Stories of Contem­ tures-Stephen Friedman, pro­ Cecil Williams. (Harper & Row, 214 pp, porary Black Women Writers," edited ducer-Ronald Maxwell, director. $10 hardcover). Williams shares with the and with an introduction by Mary Helen reader his extraordinary life written as Washington (Anchor Press/Doubleday, "Little Darlings" is not about little an historical-spiritual journey through 304pp, $4,50 paperback). This publica­ darlings. It's really about a summer his modern American experiences... tion takes a positive look at an always camp full of mischievous "bad girls" ...To all the moms and mother's·to­ topical subject .. , who bet their summer allowances on be, Happy Mothers Day! The Women's ...An in-depth look at the life of an who will lose their virginity first. Resource and Action Center in Iowa Ci­ American Indian woman is offered in The two contestants are Angel Bright, ty, Iowa has published a book of "Spirit Woman, The Diaries and Pain­ the poor street kid from the projects, photographs entitled, "Mothers: A lings of Bonita Wa Wa Calachaw superbly played by Kristy McNichol, coot. (Page 26)

ROUTES, A G/lide to Black Entertainment 23 ART The first two works by black artists to enter the Museum's collection were "Boxer," by Richmond Barthe and "Pool Parlor" by Jacob Lawrence. Both were awarded purchase prizes from the Arrists jor Victory exhibition which was held at the Museum in 1942. The following year, the WPA presented to the Museum a large gift of paintings, sculptures, and prints by artists employed by the Easel Section of the Federal Art Project in New York, Penn­ sylvania and Washington, D.C. These included "Blind Beggars" by Jacob Lawrence, "Barn and Tree" by Charles Alston, and two watercolors, "Girl'in Blue Dress" and "Self-Portrait" by Samuel J'oseph Brown. During the 1940s, the Museum began to seriously collect works by living American artists; "Showmaker," by Lawrence was purchased in 1946 and in 1949 the Department of American Art was established-given the mandate to acquire and exhibit especially in the

"N('l~' OrIMn.( S,ory"d!P: RI1?lim£' Prepor(IJ;ru/S"(JQ/2j hy Rnf1lare Bearden "controversial contemporary field."

or thirty-four years, the F Metropolitan Museum has been collecting works by black artists-pain­ tings, sculptures, watercolors, drawings, prints and photographs that span three centuries and are distributed among several curatorial departments. In the Museum's American Paintings and Sculpture collection are works by )8th and 19th Century black artists such as the portrait, "Edward and Sarah Rutter," by Joshua Johnson (1765-1830), who was active in the Baltimore area around 1789-1825; "Landscape with Cow Watering in Stream" and "Landscape with Shepard" by Robert Du ncanson (1817-1872), who was a prominent par­ ticipant in the art scene centered in Cin­ cinnati and Detroit during the last cen­ tury; and "The Sabot Maker," a gouache by the expatriate Henry O. Tanner (1859-1937), who acquired an in­ as Van Der Zee to younger artists such With regard to the American art collec­ ternational reputation and was the first as Floyd who have not become establish­ tion, it was agreed that it ~hould be "na­ American artist to be included in the col­ ed within the art world but who are pro­ tional in scope, that evident gaps in it be lection of the Palais Luxembourg in duci~g work of note. The greater part of filled, that certain advanced trends not Paris. the Museum's collection is housed in the then represented should be included, The Departmen\ of Prints and Department of Twentieth Century Art. and that better works by artists poorly Photographs houses works by Charles These represent a variety of modernist represented should be acquired." (H. Alson, Peter Bradley, Preston Phillips, tendencies, from the naive vision of Geldzahler, (American Painting in the Frederick Flay, and James Van Der Zee. Horace Pippin's "Victorian Interior" to 201ft Century). In order to achieve this The last two names point to the range of the lyrical abstraction of Thomas Sill's goal, a series of national competitions the reputations of the black artists such "Dance... were held: 1950 (paintings), 1951

24 ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black [lIlertainmeJll E METROPOLIT • COLLE TING BLACK ART

The Department of 20th Century Art has acquired works by seven black American artists over the last two years: "Leah's Renoir" by am GiUiam, "Johnny s Gone" by Richard Yarde, "Black Valhalla" by oah Jemi on, two untitled works on paper by Howardena Pindell. "Figure" by Hale Woodruff, and "Genesis" by Frederick Brown. Since mu eums function as repositories of cultural heritage the number of black artists on exhibit at the Met is still far too mall, and the cope of contributions by black Americans to the visual heritage of this country must be rectified. Mu eum collection, from their inception, have reflected primarily the interest and needs of the individuals who have founded the coUecdons. and obviously few black were initially in­ volved in this process. There has never been an equitable credentialization of the work by black artists through ade­ quate exhibition, collection, and critical as essment. Therefore, their hi torical po ition ha yet to be affirmed. The market value for their work till lags far behind that of other arti t , and oppor­ tunities to market their work are still carce. The fe galleries and pecialized mu eums are only beginning to olve the problem. Sugge tions for solutions are as numerou as the problems, but it is clear that there is a need for an "art [n­ tere t lobby" for black artists by black people. The resources exist. The nuclei of important collections of art by black and white artists have already begun to develop in black univer itie uch as Atlanta University, who e collection was started by Hale Woodruff, and that of Howard University, so carefully nur­ tured by James Porter. In Detroit, the African Art Gallery Committee as been a vital force at the Art In titute, raising money for the pur­ chase of African Art and works by black Americans over the last 18 years. A pur­ (sculpture). and 1953 (drawings and Preston Phillips. and paintings by Alma chase fund for works by black American I watercolors). Cash prizes were awarded Tilorpas, Jack Whitten, and Palmer artists has recently been established at to winners. and work were purcha ed Hayden, and a sculpture by Richard the Metropolitan Museum of Art. To for the Museum's collection from the e Hunt) and through generou gifts from date. in titution uch as the Met have exhibition. Charles Al on' ab tract the donors including the artists already taken tep to recognize black work, "Painting," wa purchased themselve (such as photOgraph from arti ts. ow their commitment should through thi competition. James Van Der Zee, Gordon Park, be encouraged, and Its u tenance in- Since the e initial acqui ition • work paintings by vel de Knight, Horace ured. by black artists have' come to the Pippin, Jame Denmark, Thomas Sills, Museum through purchases, (i.e. and a drawing by Barbara Cha e photographs by Frederick Floyd Riboud). -Lowery Sims

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Enlertainmenl 25 Ar Review

...Art aficionado were dismayed that Museum of Art in e York from at the Metropolitan Museum, is now a the Black Elders exhibition at the Cor­ August 11 . October 12... consultant for development and coran Gallery was taken down before it ...Beverly Buchanan recently had a membership. Ran into Barbara Tate, had carcely been up! Organized in con­ sculpture dedicated in Macon, another Studio Museum alumna at the junction with the National Conference Georgia... Henry Street Settlement where she is of Artists annual meeting in ...Kolawole (Lawrence Compton) directing the Visual Arts program for the Washington, April 2-5 by Barbara Hud­ recently had an exhibit of his paintings, Center for Living Arts... Oh, where, oh, son, the exhibition featured work by mobiles and graphics at the Kunstzen­ where has Billy Day gone? Oh, where, Hale Woodruff, Romare Bearden, truro in Munich, West Germany... oh where can he be? ... Ernest Chrichlow, Lois Jones Pierre- ...Mavis Puse 's work was exhibited ...Phylli Tbomp on of Cornell oel, Jake Lawrence, and Charles at the ew School from April 8 - 30... Univer ity is alive and well and on leave White...... ew York Times photographer, at the Art Institute of Chicago...... Vincent mitb's work is included in Chester Higgins, was featured during ...Margo iscusi and Janet Carter the annual exhibition of the ational Photography Week at the Queens Col­ hosted receptions for Senegalese artist Audubon Society... lege Student Union in late April... Iba 'Dlaye during his recent visit to ...Clarence MorgaD's work is included ...Idaherma WiDiBms will exhibit New York... in the juried exhibition "Mixmaster," woodblock prints at the University City ...Everyone in the art world is agog at which is touring Kentucky and the Science. Center Gallery, 3624 Market Michael Kendall's claim to be the rein­ southeastern states over the next 18 Street in Philadelphia through May 9... carnation of Edmonia Lewis... months...... Don't miss the Studio Museum' ...Last but not least, the Congres­ ...Randall GaUeries, 823 Madison Third Film Fe tival through May 22. sional Black Caucus sent observers to Avenue, will open an exhibition of work Contact Danny Dawson at (212) the ational Conference of Artists ses­ by the late Chari ton on April 30... 427-5959. Tbe Studio Mu eum is plann­ sions to ascertain a role for the caucus in ...Don't miss the "Treasures of An­ ing a memorial exhibition in tribute to promoting the arts. This was a most ap­ cient igeria," which will be at the the late harle Wbite who pas ed away propriate step as the theme of the con­ California Palace of the Legion of recently... ference was •'Political and Economic Honor in San Francisco April 28 - June ...AI 0 at the Studio Museum, Cathy Development for the African-American 29 and then at the Metropolitan Chance Connors, my former colleague Artist."... -Lowery Sims

Media Review p. 23 and Ferris Whitney, the rich kid, ap­ Night 0/ the Living Dead. However, propriately played by Tatum 0' eal. having een "The Changeling," I will go Baited by tbe evil vixen, Cindy (Krista about my usual business, because this Erickson), the two girls enter into this one didn't care the pants off me at all. bizarre competition purely to show their ...Scheduled for release in June is contempt for each other. "Blues Brothers," featuring John This inventive cript has been Belushi and Dan Aykroyd of "Saturday transformed into a hilariously endearing ight Live, II with special appearances film about adolescent discovery and that by Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, and inevitable "first time. II Ray Charle ... The praiseworthy performances by "LillI. Darlings" ...Billy Dee Williams stars with the film's young gifted actresses, rise ylvester tallone in "Hawks," Univer­ above some uneven directing and ingly, he rents a haunted mansion that's sal Pictures, with locations shot in New distracting lights. The dialogue seems inhabited by the ghost of a young boy York City... purpo ely awkward and unadult, giving seeking revenge for his premature ...Coming from ew Yorker Films is that strange ense that one is actually demise. Lonely night with doors "Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith,II an peeking in on the unrehear ed and can­ mysteriously opening and slamming, Australian film featuring a new did mischief. thundering thumps, eerie whispers-it di covery, Tommy Le . Lewi will star was enough to drive anybody crazy. Of in this flick about an Aboriginal's fIrst THE CRA GEL! G-Associated course, the composer join the gbost's experience in dealing with a racist Film-Michaels and Garth Dragin ky. one man army of retribution. Anything culture... prOducers-Peter Medak, director. for a night's sleep! ...Sldney Poltier is directing a new The film relies largely on the repeti­ fLlm. It's still hush-hush... Halfway through "The Changeling, II tion of simple effects for tension. The ...Scatman Caruthers will appear in [ succumbed to a di tinct feeling of deja seance scene provides the only in­ two films for Warner Brothers Pic­ vu. Those high-pitched wirling oohhs novative moment of terror that is ge­ tures-"Honeysuckle Rose," witb and aahhs, that pounding symphony nuinely new. Willie elson, DyaD CanDon, and Amy score said, "yes, yes, it's 'The Omen' ] haven't eaten pea soup since "The Irving. He's al 0 et to appear in the new reborn." Exorcist' and after seeing •'The ClInt Eastwood ftlm, "Bronco Billy," George C. colt play a depressed Tenant," [ dreaded going borne to an tarring Eastwood... ~ compo er who moves to Seattle to get empty apartment-and [wasn't the only over the death of his family. Unknow- one wbo bought a night light after seeing -Dwight Brown

26 ROUTE. A Guide 10 Black Enrerrainmem ART LISTINGS African EmpIres and Thru Jun 29­ Woman Installallons. working In fiber, clay. MUSEUMS Foresl States. May 22, Vincennes and $eYres wOOd and metal. AncIent Mexican Cities. Porcelain. Museum ollha Am.rican Munum of May 29, The Age of Amarlc.n Jodl.n -Uptown ImmJgrstion Dlnosaurs_ H/fIhllflhtS Q~nhelm Mu.aum BrOadwayl155lh SI Stalue 01 Uberty and Hfstory Toun: 10:15 FIlth Av!89 St 283-2420 An-.rtcan Mu..um National Monumenl & to:3O am, 1 & 1;30 860-1313 Tu·Sal 1l).5 pm Uberty Island 01 Natura' Hlatory pm, 2 & 2;30 pm; Wed Tu 11 am.s pm Sun 1·5 pm 732·1236 79 StICPW 6:30 pm; Sal, Sun, and Wed-Sun 1t am-5 pm Ctosed Mon & Hols Circle Une·Slalue 01 873-1300 Hols 11 am & 1 pm Thru May 2O-Eduardo Thru May 10-Honor Mon-S., 10 am·4:4S pm LIberty. Ferry leaves -Inquire al 2nd 1I00r Chrtllda-60 works dating Moccasins 01 Ihe Teton Wed 10 am·g pm Inlo Desk. Ballery Park 9·4 pm form 1951 10 1979 by Sioux. dally. Sun 5. Hoi 11 am·5 pm. HaydM Planalarlum the promInent Spanish exhibitions: Thru 5ep 1 Mon·Frl 2 & 3:30 pm, Mu••um of tha City sculptor. Thru May 11 Munum ot Amarlc.n -Futhllr Arts: Beauly, Sal & Sun t, 2,3, 4, S -New Images Irom ot Naw YortI: Folk Ar1 We.llh and Spirit from pm. Thru sep 7-The Sp.ln. May 23-Aug 17­ Flflh Av/103 St 4SW.53S1 Fl.... Continents. Thru Beginning; This pro­ The Sotomon R 534·t&72 lT1·2474 8ep l-Papua New gram examines dls­ Guggenheim Museum Tu-Sal 10 am·s pm Tu-sun 10'.30 am-5:30 pm Guln..: A Feather In coyerles and lhe most M.y &-sep 8-Street Collecllon; 1900-1980. Th 10:30 am-8 pm the cap. Lectur..: May recenl theorIes of the Pley: Photogrephs. May 1&-Jun 7-Klnellcs Thru May 4-John 14,7:30 pm, Auditorium origIn of lhe universe. Thru sep 1 Hundred. 01 Around a Fountain: Pot Blunl: The Man, The -The Weavers 01 Peru: Wed, 7:30 pm-Worlds Doll•. Thru Ihe .ummer Bury. Artist and His Times. FOr1y·Flve centuries of In Space: Explores the -Life Wllh Falher. Thru May 16·Aug 31-Engllsh fradlllan, May 7. 7 pm. solar system. Sal 11 the summer-Elegant Intamatlonal Centar Naive Parnllng. TM Ptopla Center am-Saturday Morning 01 PhotogTiphy BOa. On elthlbllindellnl· -Howard Norm dis­ Live Sky Show lor Filth Av194 St 18ly-The Big Apple. cusses the dance and Young People: Di,· ~1777 Black Fuhlon Mu.eum songa altha er•• cusslon 01 such topIcs Dally 11 am·s pm, N.tlonal Black 155-57 W t26 Sl Indiana. May 21, 7 pm as why the sky I, blue. excepl Man American Historical _1320 -John Blerhorsl and why the moon appears Thru May 18-RObert Museum Thru OCI lS-Coslumes Richard lewis read and 10 chanoa shape In the Flaharty. Photograpn. tOW. 139 St Irom Black Thealre. discuss Iranalallons MY, elc. Laserlum erlFllm Maker. Thru 283-9189 from Mr. Blerhorsl'a Concerts: Wed, 8;45 pm, May18-Slgtltsilnslghls. Tue-Sun 11 am-5 pm. recent book "... Cry lrom FtI, Sat, Sun, 7:30 Exhibits and artllacls of -Downlown the Earth: Music of the pm-Laserlum Starshlp; Japan Hou•• blacks in American North American Indiana. Takes Its audience on a 333 E. 47U' 51. hlslory. Fltderal H.1t Dance: The Ptopla Journey of sound and 832·1155 Nallonal Munum Center, Sat 5. Sun only Studio Mus.um light through Ihe Dally and weekends 26 Wall St 1-4:30 pm. Presentatlona In Harlam cosmos using new laser 11 am6pm; Flllo 7-:!1) pm 264-8711 2033 FIfth AYI126 51 of If,dlllon" music, ellecls snd evocallve Thru Jun 1-Japanese Dally 9 am·':3O pm dance, customs, .rta 427·5959 "space" musIc. Frl, & Drawings of 18 & 19 Tue·Frl 10.6 pm and cr,llS Irom dll· sat 9 & 10:30 pm, Sun 9 centuries. Flra Dapartment sat·Sun 1-6 pm. lerenl countrl••. Films: pm-Ught Years: Com­ Muaeum Thru Jun 29-88l1y May to & 11,2--4;30 pm, bfne. dazzling new laser N.tlonal Black 104 Duane St saarr Exhibit Audrtorlum- lnseet, affecl. wllh hll song. American Historkal 57G-A230 and Spiders. May 10: Irom lhe past. Museum Mon·FtI 9 am-.4 pm Don't, The Evolulion of 10 West 139 St Whltnay Munum Flight; Ants; Hunters 283-9189 01 Amarican Art Fraunce. r.,am and Gardeners; Come 75th SUMadlson Av A.la Hou.a Exhibits and artllact. Musaum Into My Parlor, SaId the Pearl & Broad Sts 112 E..64lh 51 lIIustrallng Blacks In Spider; Strategy lor Thru""...... May 13-Amerlcan 425-1778 PL 1-3210 American hlslory. Survival: Behavlorlat Folk Painters of Three Mon·Frl 10·4 pm Ecology of Ihe Monarch Mon-5at 10 am·5 pm Centuries. Thru Jun Th 10 arn-8:30 pm BUllerlty; LUe on a Matropolllan Museum t5-Amerlcan SCulp. Sun 1-5 pm Mu.aum of Holography Silken Thread IPart I). of Art lure. Thtu Jun 22 Thru June 22 1t Mercar 51 May 11: Now You Filth Av!S2 St -John Sloan: Concen· see -Treasures Irom Ine 925-0526 Me, Now You Don't; Dr. 5J5.n10 tr.tlon. May 27-8ep First museum ollt. ReUberg Museum, Lee's World or Insecls; Tue 10 em-8:45 pm, 14-loulse Nsvelson: Zurich. kind fealuring My,terlou, Casttes 01 Wed-Sal 10 em-.;45 pm, Almosphere and Holograms: plclures Clay; The Beekeeper, Sun 11 em.4:45 pm_ Environments. developecl Dy lasar IIghl Ule on a Silken Thread Cent.r lor Int...· On exhlblt Indellnllely creallng 3 dlmen,lonal (Part II). May 5, 12 & 19, AmIflcan R.latlons -The Norbert Schlm· EJ Tallar Borlcua Images. 1 pm-Visions 01 Antlq· 680 Park Avl68lh St mel Amarna Reliefs. 1 EaSl 104 51 ully: A FUm 58ries. No 24g.sS50 Thru Summer 1980: Mon·FrI11am·4pm Naw Munum sfngle admIssion tlcke" Tu·Sun 12-6 pm FashIons ollhe 831·4333 65 Filth Av/l.lh St will be sold: May 5 May t4-JuI27-North· Hapsburg Era: Auslrla· 741-8962 -Allanlls. May 12 we.t Coast Indian Art. H.ungary. Thru May 18 -Midtown Mon-Frl 12-6 pm -The NIght of May 11,,1ul 27-0bJecls -The Bull Masler: An Wed 12-9 pm, Sat 12-6 pm Counllng the Years. 01 Bright Pride, N.W. Alrlcan Artl,t ollhe Altican Amatlcan May 19-The Ancient Coasl Indians Nlneteenlh Century. In.Uluta So!.Ilh 51,..1 saaport Ship ot Kyrenls. ihru June 1-The 833 U.N. Plazal47 51 Mu.aum Lectu',,: Slides. Tu, 2 Cooper·Hawltt Museum Horses of San Marco...... Fultoo and Front Sis pm, The People center Flhh Avl9t 51 Thru Jul 9-The Great Mon·Frl 9 am-5 pm 766-9062 -May 6: TexllIes of Btonze Age 01 China; 58t 11 am-5 pm Mon-5un 11 am-6 pm Anclenl Peru. May 13, Thru Jun An Exhlblllon from the Thru May 24-ArI of Collecllon of shops and "Digs" In Search 01 1-Spectacular Spaces. People's Republic of Cameroon. galleries recalling 19th Man's Pasl. May 20, -Thru Jul 27-Close China. Century of N.V.C. Foresl Trees of New Observallon: The 011 Am.rican Crall York Clly Area. May 21, Sketches 01 Frederic El Musao dal BarrIo Mu.aum Whltnay Mu.eum 01 Wild SCrubs and Vines. Edwin Church. 1230 Filth Av UW.53SI Amarlcan Ar1 Gall&ry Talks: Th, 2 pm, 831-7272 397-0600 55 Water SI Assembling at 1st floor Ftlck Collection Tue-Frf 1(3) arn-4:30 pm, Mon-5at 10 am-5 pm "".Q633 Information Desk-May 1 E. 70th St SaI-5un 11 am-.4 pm. Sun 1 pm-5 pm Frill am-3 pm " Marine Mammal,. 288-0700 Thru Jun l-John Thru May 25-Art for Thru May 28-The May 8, The Magic or Tues·SaI 10-6 pm Belancourt • Thru Use: Handmade objects Working Woman, Minerals. May 15, Early Sun 1-6 pm May-Collective used by Americans 1840-1945.

ROUTES, A Guide 10 B/(l('k £Wertaillmell1 27 r-----ROUTES MAGAZINE BACK ISSUES----,

In response to our readers who write us requesting back issues of ROUTES, we have prepared the following list of available copies. To order, indicate those issues you want on the coupon below and return it with $1 for each copy ordered. The price includes postage and handling but the minimum order Is $2. If you do not want to cut up your magazine you can order on plain paper or on a photocopy of the form. DON'T MISS THIS CHANCE to get those copies of ROUTES you missed the first time. But act now as this offer is good only as long as supplies last!

October 1977 May 1978 Downtown Beat. Fa: Fur Fashion '78. Articles: Th: Curtains Up. Mu: New York Articles: Th: Richard Wesley A Mighty RR: Marian Anderson. Community Choir Expresses Itself. En: Playwright. Mu: The Unveiling of Melba. Reaching Back and Coming Forward. Ol: The Temptations: "MaVin' On Up." En: December 1978 Casa Stories. At: Museums of Special In­ "Show Tlmel" The Apollo Theatre. 01: Articles: Th: Audetco: Keeping Black larest. Tf: En Route to Paris. Kd: The Jewel. At: Nigeria: Art In Everyday Life. Theatre Alive. Hines, Hines and No Dad. Doctor Says. Md: Black News Per· Tr: 'Gain Home'-Senegal's Surprises. MU: Carol Douglas: Burnln & Cookin. Oi: sonalltles. Sp: The Games People Kd: Children's Theatre: "The Play'S the Leoni Au Coin D'Halll-A Dream Come Play-Squash. RR: Billie Holiday Thing". Md: "American Hot Wax". Sp: True. At: Trim You Tree with Toothpicks. Baseball Forecast '78. RR: Katherine Tr: Afrlca-A Journey to Northern Mall. Decem ber J 977 Dunham. Kd: Plant That Learning Tree In Your Articles: Th: Black Theatre In the Rough. Home. Md: Hollywood's Holiday Offer· Mu: Black Opera Ebony In New York City. June 1978 Ing. Sp: The Jets' Marvin Powell: YOJJng En: The listening Ear. 01: Horn of Plen­ Articles: Th: The Black Theatre Alliance. & Hungry. Fa: Yves St. Laurent. RR: ty-A Food Celebration. At: the Giving Mu: The Harlettes. En: Entertaining wllh Leadbelly. of Art. Tr: Guadeloupe. Kd: The Wines. 01: Poletti's. At: Jam, Studio Christmas Vacation. Md: Super Sidney Museum & King Tut. Tr: Going South for Pottier. Sp: Backgammon, It's Your the Summmer. Kd: Summer Activities for May 1979 Move. RR: Bill Bojangles. Kids. RR: Fats Waller Articles: Th: Ashton Sprlnger·Producer. Mu: Marilyn Mc Coo & Billy Davis. 01: January 1978 July 1978 Midnight Dining. At: Brooklyn's New Articles: Th: Dyann & Gregg: Moving Articles: Th: Ain't Mlsbehavln'. Cecil Muse. Tr: Luggage, Bags & Headaches. Ahead. Mu: The Descendants of Mike & Alonzo-Brooklyn's live Soap. Mu: Jazz Kd: K Rated Movies. Md: Disco Televl· Phoebe. Mu: Are the Blues All Washed Fusion. Jazz, Jazz & More Jazz. 01: Under sian. Sp: Now The Home Teams. Fa: Up? DI/Dlsco: Disco Scene. At: Discover· the Stairs. At: Images of the Caribbean, "The Atchison Look", "The Jerry's Den ing Art From Ethiopia to Harlem. Tr: 1880·1910. Tr: Montreux, Switzerland. Look", "The Keyes West Look". RR: Atlanta GeorgIa. Kd: The Natural Kd: the Bronx Zoo's Wild Asia. Md: Black Euble Blake & Nobel Sissie. Wonders. Md: Which Way Is Up? Sp: The News. Sp: Water SkIIng. RR: Duke Ell· New York Knlcks: Young & Running. Fa: Ington. The Designers Touch. RR: Joe Louis. Abbrt....uons: Th-ThUlrt. Mu-Musll:. i:.n-.l::numain· August 1978 mtnt.Di-Dlninll. Oil-Dilco, At-Arl, Tr-Travel. February 1978 Articles: Th: Ed Love Seizes the Time. Dr: Kd-Klds, Md-Mtdil, Sp-SpOrl$, Fa_Fashion. Articles: Th: Theatre In the Streets. Mu: Johnson, Keeper 01 Roots. Mu: Teddy RR-Roll1tS Roots. There's Music In the Air Mardi Gras: The Pendergrass, The Fatback Band. 01: The New Orleans Carnival. DI:Carnlval Peachtree: Soulful Dining. At: African Foods. At: James Van Der Zee. Tr: Car· Grass & Fiber Arts. Tr: Quebec, Canada. nlval Time In Trinidad. Kd: Children's Kd: Summer Festival tor Kids. Md: BACK ISSUES AVAILABLE: Dance Theatre. Md: A Disco Star Is Born. WRVR, Jazz Radio. Alma John: 25 years Please circle the Issues you want.$1 Sp: Watch, Wager, Enjoy: Jal AlaI. RR: In Broadcasting. Sp: Tennis: First Serve. each/min. Order $2 Dorothy Dandridge. RR: Mahalia Jackson. Oct 1977 Aug 1978 April 1978 OClober 1978 Dec 1977 Dec 1978 Articles: Th: Tlmbuktu. Th: Eartha Kltt: I Articles: Th: Billy & Judy-The Mime Jan 1978 May 1979 Am Here. Mu: Carlos Santana. En: Turn· Team. Mu: Roberta Flack Interviewed. Feb 1978 Jun 1979 tables. 01: Main Street. At: Architecture: 01: Once Upon a Stove. At: Nubian Art Apr 1978 Jul 1979 Exhibit. Tr: Virgins In the Caribbean. Kd: Visual Pleasures. Tr: Sevilla. Kd: The May 1978 Junior Museum. Md: The Boys in Com· Open Sesame. Md: Sltcoms:Slck Cons. Sep 1979 pany C. Sp: New York Is Jumping Double Buckwheat Thomas Movln' On. Sp: The Jun 1978 Dec 1979 Dutch. RR: Hattie Me Daniel. Fight Game. Dis: Trlbeca-The Jul 1978 Jan 1980

TOTAL..I _ BACK ISSUES ROUTES MAGAZINE Name _ 230 WEST 41ST STREET Address, _ SUITE 1302 NEW YORK, N.Y. City/State/Zip _

28 ROUTES. A Guid(J to Blac'k Entertai"",enr RUSSELL BROWN: KIDS CLOWNING ARO ND three to six years old..... Ru sell pre ed on. While researching the business of clowning around, he bumped into an organization called the Clowns of America, a trade union with over I 000 clown members. Brown became the first black to be admitted to the organization, who e president at the time was Red kelton. oon after, he al 0 met ount "Popo," one of the oldest and most popular clowns on the West Coast. "On the West Coast," Rus ell says, "there were plenty of professional clowns like Howdy Doody, Bozo," but none of them were black. Ru ell asked Count Popo where he learned the tricks of the trade. "He told me thaI as a kid he u ed to watch Burt Williams. Burt wa a black clown, but he was a min trel and wore white-face. But here, a white clown copied off of him," he note with a touch of iron '. Ru ell has won several award for hi escapades. He took fir t prize in an in­ ternational clown contest at the Puerto Rico Clown Festival. He has appeared in several films, including "Cotton Comes To Harlem," "Aero s llOth Street," and" haft' Big core.' He has al 0 written and directed everal play. Rus ell has ince retired from circus life and has returned to the East oast RU(,\tll Tht! low1I where he entertain children at birthday parties. When he moved ea t to entertain veryone loves to clown around he fir t donned a clown wt while kid, he recall, "I'd come to their home E once in a while. Some do it bel­ volunteering as a Cub cout leader in in Bed Stuy, and they could laugh in ter {han others. Some do it well enough California. "When we would try to find their own homes. Of cour e, it didn't to make a living. Ru ell Brown has been entertainment for our parties and award payoff, becau e most were poor. 0 a doing just that-clowning around for a ceremonie. the tOp entertainers-the lot of times I'd go in for free." living for about the last 12 years. His white clowns-wouldn't come. So to His entertainment i quite different reason for becoming a professional fulfill my kids' needs, I ended up doing from the standard circus clowning. clown has to do with his concern for the it my elf." When he goes to entertain children he proper molding of children' mind. It Hi scout egged him on to audition brings with him a message. In his all started a while back when Brown for a well-known circus. He wa told favorite learning trick, he use a small and his wife took in a few foster that black clowns weren't funny. "That piece of green paper which he tells children. Mo t of them had lived tragic struck me as being 0 odd. Here we're everyone is the ymbol of money. "If lives, had lost their parents or were supposed to be one of the funnie t peo­ they want to get rich, they will have to abandoned. ple in the world, but we weren't funny go to work." He then puts the paper in "That," Russell declares "taught me professionally. And I said, 'something's his mouth and out come 12 feet of that children need omething to laugh wrong there. How come there aren t any multi-colored paper, which means at." black clown l' So J began to do a lot of "Whatever you sa , let beautiful word According to Ru ell, clowning "is re eaTch. The ones I found were Mom come out. ' different and it' rewardmg. It gives a Mabley, Pigmeat, Redd Fo , Richard Russell Brown till entertains for mes age and it's entertaining-not many Pryor, Flip Wilson ...they're considered private parties and children's programs. things have a me sage and are entertain­ clowns. But they're not children's He can be contacted at (212) 924-5451 ing." Russell can't very well answer how clowns. In other word, what do black ore (212) 272-1322. r to get started as a clown becau e he boys and girls have to make them laugh. him elf didn't quite know when he had Batman, uperman, the Three et out to make it a life's goal. Actually, Stooges? ...nothing for the little kid

ROUTES. A Guide 10 Black £lIIerlaillmel1l 29 KIDS LISTINGS lind and sketch from the orlglnsl LEAFlNINQ CENTERS works 01 art In the museum's SHOWS AND EXHIBITS galleries. May 3, The Impressionists; May 4. Sea Monsle". May 10, Egyp· tlan Mythology; May ", A Family Amertun Mu..um of Natural HI.lory CeleDrallon; May 17, Jewelry; May Central Park WesU79th 51 18. Georges de La Tour; May 24, Oaneral Motors Exhibit 879-1300 Parks & Founlalns; May 25, DutCh GM Building The Discovery Room: Sat·Sun 12 Painters; May 31, CaNed Ivory. Art Filth Avl59lh St Noon·";30 pm-Thru the US. 01 TeJls A Story-Sat and Sun 1 & 486-4518 touchable specimens and ImagInative 2:30 pm In the Junior Museum Research, au'o, appliance, engineering "Discovery Boxes," this 8r8a Is Library. Age: 5-15. A slide show and luture deYelopment ekhlblls. especially designed lor young people presentation and dIscussion of Why to enjoy a personal learnIng ex­ and how artists have Iltustrated C&f. J.C. Panney Company perfence In nalural science and an­ tain slorles. Using a prepared map, 1301 Av oltha Americas thropology. Youngsters must be 5 they find the stories In original 95'-'8'0 years Old and accompanied by an works 01 art In the museum's Dally 9:30 am & 2 pm. Free gUided lours adult. Starting at 1t;45 am, Iree galleries. Gallery Walk-Sat-Sun. 01 corporate headquarlers, vIsits to mer­ tickels are distributed on 8 Urst­ 1:30 & 3 pm. Finding, skelchlng and chandise testing cenler, displays and come, Ural-served basis at the IIrst discussing works 01 art on Ihe day's exhibits. Ii00t Inlorm.lIon deak. Alexander theme Sketching materials prO'llded. M. While Natur.1 Science Films 12-1 pm. May 10. Anclan' Nautical OUtlngl c.nt.r Tu-Ff', 2"':30 pm, Sal·Sun Garnes; illustrations from Ihe Oay Un. cruises leave lrom Pier 81 (at ' ...·30 pm-This center Introduces Odyssey; The FrancOis Vase. May 17, lhe foot 01 Wasl.t,t StJl2th Ave) al 10 young people 10 Ihe pl,nlS, .nlmals Discovering the Mu,lc 01 the Middle am each day ror Bear Mounlaln. West and rocks of New York Clly. A slalf Ages; The Point 01 Vlaw MOYie; PoInt and Poughkeepsie. member Is always present to assist Bllnklly Blank; Calder's Circus. May Expa~lanca and .)Cplaln. See Art Listing lor addi­ 24. The Arlist's Horse; Melry·Go­ Tha Naw York tional activities Round In the Jungle; Ballet by Degas: McGraw-Hili Bldg(Lower Plaza) sandc..lle; Powers of Ten. May 31, Av of the AmerIcas Children'. Art Camlnl The Calhedral 01 Chartres; Enamel­ "'."345 62 Hamilton Tetrace, Min Ing; Tales Irom a Book of Kings. Mon·Th, 11 am-7 pm; Fri & sal. 11 am-a 23'-4093 pm; SUn, Noon'" pm. Sixteen screens. Free' This program tor children In­ <15 projeclorS, 88 special effects present cludes pholography, sewing, 111m· -Brooklyn the story of N.Y.C. past and present. making, figure drawing, palnllng, Shows hourly. reading and career training (4·18 Bedlord S'uyveunt Ra.torallon years). Con>. The Ringling Bros. c.nlar lor Art and Cuttu,.. 8amum • B.llay Clrcua CQOJMf·Hawltt Mu..um t360 Fulton St Madison SQuare Garden 2 E. 915t St 63&-789t 33rd Sl/8th Ay Thru May 12-Washlngton Heights '"'..."., See Art Ustlng lor actlvilles Art Show exhibition. May Thru Jun I 12·22-Banner Making Conlest lor -Harlam School 01 the Art. pre·schoolers and Senior Citizens. -BrOOklyn 409 W. 141$1 51. Man Awards ceramony May 22, 1 pm. 926·<1100 Brooklyn Bol.nlc Oardan Instruction and perlormance In Brooklyn Muaaum 1000 Washington Ave plano (group .nd private), guitar, 188 Eastern Pkwy flute, clarlnel, cello, viOlin, viola, 63&5000 Henry 51. S.Ulaman' drama and att Wed.sat 10 am·5 pm Urban Ule Center Sun 12-5 pm. Hoi 1·5 pm 265 Henry St Matropolltan Mu.aum 0' Art A frae year·round program lor Ilrst 766-9200 Junior Mu..um through sixth graders thai lakes Flflh Avl82nd 51 placa in tha mu,eum's gallerIes. Par· Naw yort Aquarium 8711-5500 tlclpanls learn about a dillerent col· W. 811'1 St & Surf Av Tuesday(5:30)MIednes

30 ROUTES, A Guide to Black £merta;t1me", DAVE PARKER: SPORTS MILLION 8 HITTER ave lithe Cobra" Parker is not a D venomous creature as his nickname suggests. He's a radiant pro­ fessional baseball player who always produces on the field. He'll hit the game-winning home run, chase down a fly ball and target a herculean throw from the deepest corner of right field to home plate. Since he entered the major leagues in 1974, he has been named Most Valuable Player and has been selected Player of the Month several times. He was team MVP in 1977,league MVP in 1978, cap­ tured the MVP award at last year's AII­ Star game, and was the driving force that clinched the World Series crown for the Pittsburgh Pirates last year. Parker's $1.7 million salary is often criticized by those who envy him or seek to belittle his value as a ball player. But his earnings should not he the sole gauge. It is important, also, to recognize what Parker's productive abilities are worth to an owner willing and able to pay him such a phenomenal amount of money. As a champion, Parker is one of the more outspoken black athletes of the day. Spring is here, and with it comes the baseball season. I couldn't have chosen a better time to talk to the "Cobra" for the readers of Routes.

Routes: Talking about your salary. Do you think that your $1.7 million compares to what owners make/rom TV contracts, ticket sales, vending opera· tions, etc.? Parker-Frankly, 1 think all major league salaries are always considered tax write-offs for a ball club. Every baseball salary is a write-off. I think the Pirates are the third highest paid ball club in baseball. How do you /eel when an owner comes out and says management's got to raise ticket prices because players' salaries are too high? That's poisoning the public's mind toward the player-trying to portray the player as a money hungry individual who doesn't care about anything but money. That's how they try to portray us. Getting the money and running. That's probably why my car got cut up and why people tried to vandalize my house.

ROUTES, A Guide to Black ElItertai"mellt 11 black player because, hell, that's what pizza product. we have. Three-fourths of the ball club I can't knock Pete Rose. He was very is black. I think that management con­ instrumental in making it possible for trols the press. They can dictate how a me to be the first SI million paid player is portrayed. Because they run it. ball player in baseball history. So how They said that they wanted to make me a can I knock him? For ten consecutive household name. Therefore, the media's years, he has collected at least 200 hits attitude toward me is positive. each year. That's amazing. He roasted We're definitely worth something. me in Cincinnati. We're both from Cin­ Take me for instance. I'm 75 percent of cinnati. He told me the reason I put the everything that happens in the Pitt· diamond ring in my ear was to make my sburgh club; offensively, defensively, in­ head look bigger. Then he went on to cluding leadership qualities. All these say that Dave Parker is the best player in things revolve around me because I play all of baseball. The 'man is a positive the game very well. I play well enough to thinker. People regard me as a cocky in­ even add a little yeast, where I could be dividual. I really feel that if I didn't nashy. But as far as the value of the believe that I was one of the better black player-without them I don't players in all of baseball, then who else think baseball would be what it is today. would? I definitely believe that if you The value of the black ball player is got a cannon, shoot it. And I've got a remarkable. I don't know what it is, but cannon! you know black ball players always Pete Rose has got a cannon. That is feature speed, leaping ability and throw­ what has made Pete one of the most visi­ ing arms. Ah, we are sports. There's no ble players in baseball. He's a little more way to get around it. controversial than I am. If I chose to be What do you think about Pete Rose and controversial, I would be in a situation what he said about you in a Playboy ar­ like Reggie is in at the present time in ticle lost year? He made some comments New York. about whom advertisers would prefer, What do you think ojReggie Jackson between the two ofyou, to endorse their and his ordeal with Billy Martin?

<&®~'1f1Jj 1Routts ------MAGAZINE- arttpturt t4t spirits of ---I REV. CALVIN BUITS Yes, Please start my sUbscrIption to THE U.N.C.F. CHOIR Gospel Routes immediately. I have I TOM A. DORSEY enclosed my payment for: 6 issues $6 I in this month's issue Name (Please print clearly) Enclose payment and mail to: Are you blaming management jor I GOSPEL ROUTES projecting a negative image 0/ the Dept.IA Suite 1302 players especially if they happen to be Address 230 West 41st St black? ------, New York, N.Y. 10036 I couldn't say that about the Pittsburgh Clip this coupon, mall today organization. I don't think that they City/State/Zip would influence the public against the

32 ROUTES. A Guide 10 Black Entertai"ment 1 think that Billy should have concen­ jockey shorts on, 1 know damn well, Do you think athletes can playa role trated on putting a winner on the field with me having an Adonis stature, that in knocking down some ofthe walls that instead of creating animosity in his ranks, you could put me there. I can stand on divide people? because when you got that conflict with TV and scream about Gillette, I drink Without a doubt. I think that should your key player, that tears down the in­ Pepsi, I can jump up and say Seven-Up. be indicated to the public ner structure of the team. And Reggie is There's a market! more-especially with the Pirates' theme a key player. Of course, they are always I know white kids-some of their of being a Family. The 25 guys in our ball going to stick with management because various heroes are black ball players, club are genuinely concerned with the management basically runs the press. boxers, track stars, and basketball welfare of the individual and his family. That's why when large baseball salaries players. I think a kid grows up being un­ When a player has a problem and needs came about, baseball players were por­ biased towards race from the beginning, some advice, or a pat on the back, I trayed as money-hungry individuals and unless the parents' background is total think that each individual on the team it's not that at all. A player's career goes bigotry. I believe that a kid starts out understands and is willing to share. I from ten to fifteen years. Therefore, with a straight head, having the option made a statement during the World he's got to be concerned with the welfare of making his own choice and evaluation Series last year that "60 Minutes" of his family beyond those ten or fifteen of people. I lost a contract with a shoe should do a special on us. I think it is years. That's why players go all out to company, but I won't mention any something the whole world could learn get what they can while they can. I think names. They turned me down because from. We've got 2S guys. You know Reggie was in a very awkward situation; they said I was single. They said I didn't every individual is different, and we I think in some cases he could have portray the image that they wanted to have combined to make one; everybody possibly brought it on himself because promote to kids. Hell, that's discrimina­ is together for one goal and there's a lot he is an outspoken individual. tion against single people! I'm one ofthe of love shown in our club house, from What about Pete, you, and the com­ biggest superstars in baseball today and day one to the end of the season. I mercials, though? you're gonna tell me that I can't sell think it could definitely help society Black players really have not broken your product because I'm not married? today-kind of pull people together. the endorsement field yet. Hey, I could I said that's just another excuse for put some Foamy on my face, stick a pen­ telling me, nigger, we don't want you en­ cil in it and shave my face. I could do dorsing our product. They were offering '" things like that as well as anyone. If you peanuts. I think it was S62,CXXJ for a could put Pete Rose in a magazine with three-year thing. That ain't no money. -Zachary Howard

TelEPHONE LISTINGS SPORTS PLANNING Spons Phone -BOlling and Wrestling -Television ~ -::;• ...,...,,, 635 Utica Av 999·1313 772-1400 Madison Square Garden Channel 11 (New York Yankeesl Belmont Park -Manhattan 33rd StfSe'lenth A'I May 2, 8:30 pm 'Is. Mlnnasota 641·4700 564·4400 May 3, 2:15 pm 'Is. Minnesota May 4, 2:15 pm 'Is. Minnesota Busby's Giant Stadium May 2, 23 All Star BOlling May 6, 8:30 pm 'IS.Mllwaukee 76 E. 13t/1 St May t9, All Star WresUing May 7, 8:30 pm 'IS. Milwaukee 77Hl26 265·8600 May 9, 8 pm 'Is. Minnesota High Rollers -Baseball May 10, 8 pm 'Is. Minnesota 6t7 W. 57th St Aqueduct Racetrack May 11, 2 pm 'Is. Minnesota 247·1530 641·4700 N.Y. Mels, Shea Stadium May t6, 8 pm 'IS. Tellas Melon's Flushing Queens May 17,8 pm 'Is. Texas ROLLER SKATING RINKS Meadowlands Results 672-3000 May 16, 2 pm 'IS. Texas 120 E. 16th St 77741106 594·7044 May 20, 8 pm 'Is. Detroit -Bronx May 5, 6. 7: 'Is. Clnclnnall May 23, 7:30 pm 'IS Toronto Sun, noon-7 pm Parks & Recreation News May 20, 21. 22: 'Is. Houston May 24,1:30 pm 'IS. Toronto Jerome Skallng Rink May 23, 24, 25: 'Is. Atlante May 25, t:3O pm 'Is. Toronto Metropolis 755·4100 45 Goble PI 241 W. 55th St May 27. 8 pm 'Is. Detroit 731-3229 N.Y. Yankees May 30, 8 pm 'Is. Toronto 586-0'" New York State Loltery Yankee Stadium. Bronll May 31, 8 pm 'Is. Toronto -Brooklyn Wheels 999·6868 293Montreal (914) 636·3504 Time Cosmos May 11, 1:30 pm vs. Montreal Village Skating 15 Waverly PI 936-1616 Giants Stadium, East Rutherford. N.J. May 14, 12:30 pm vs. ClnclnnaU River Roll (212) 265-8600 May 16. 7:30 pm vs. Atlanta 677-9690 312 E. 23rd St May 18, 2 pm vs. Atlanta Roll·A-Palace 67:>0950 Yankee Stadium May 2t, a pm 'Is. Houston 1728 Sheepshead Bay Rd 293-4300 May 22, 8 pm vs. HoustOfl Rollerrock May 4; vs. Dallas May 23, 8 pm vs. Allanla """""" 3330 Broadway Weather May 11: 'IS. Memphis May 24, 2 pm va. Atlanla Sweet Ruby's 368-1492 WE 6-1212 May 2t: vs. England May 25, 2 pm vs. Atlanta 329 Wycoll Av May 24: vs. Italy May 26, 2 pm vs. SI. louis 456-3300 Roxy May 26: vs Vancouver and May 30, 7:30 pm vs. Plllsburgh 515 W 18th St Madison Square Garden England vs. Italy May 31, 7 pm vs. PIlIsburgh Ullca Skating Rink 675-8300 564-4400

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ired of the usual tourist vacation, after me-Bintou. That name was given small Hibachi-like stoves. Coumba T packed with futl itineraries and no to me by the chief of Juffure (Alex would also prepare my favorite dish, time to breathe and soak up local color? Haley's ancestral village). Others in the paulet yassa, a succulent dish of chicken Living with a family in a foreign coun­ household were Pape and his brother and onions. try can be a fascinating event and may BOllbacar, a niece, Coumba Aw. and Sharing, I learned, is a characteristic be the new experience you are looking cousin Daba. And then there was of Senegalese life and applies vinually to for-even if it's your first time abroad Mbalo, the ever·present neighbor. all the cultures of Africa. It was not and your first time to Africa. Each morning during my stay, Coum­ unusual to find several friends and Living with an African family is a ba insisted I wear one of her grand relatives present at meals. The backyard, richly human affair and more rewarding "boubous, H the national dress of alive with our laughter as we ate with our than taking the usual tours and visiting Senegalese women. This elegant, flow­ hands out of a communal plate, became museums. You will learn the real ing gown is made out of an abundance a delightful dining area. significance of traditions usually of cloth-which requires a lot of walk­ After a satisfying meal, we would thought of as "colorful." Unlike most ing and posture practice for those of us stretch out on straw mats beneath shade ordinary vacations, which, after a time, used to jeans and skirts. You can get the trees and exchange stories and anecdotes fade into oblivion, only to be recalled hang of it, though. Simply gather the about life in our different worlds. now and then through photographs, this sides under your armpits and strut! Senegal is a Moslem country where "foreign affair" will remain a living When I'd go to town, Coumba would devotees are required to pray five times a memory. point her finger at me and say, "Bintau, day. It was not surprising to find Coum­ Who could forget an experience don't be late for lunch." There was ba praying while the rest of us were busy wherein one shares the world, work and good reason for this warning, because chatting and laughing. pleasures of a family and at the same Coumba would start preparing lunch There were several important time provides the hoSl's family with' the almost immediately after breakfast. kingdoms in Senegal's ancient past. opportunity to learn about your world? From her mattress perch, Coumba would Many were part of the Sudanic empire I was fortunate to have such an "af­ supervise the preparation of the food as of Ghana in the 700s to WOOs A.D. fair" with the Diouf family, who live in well as the house cleaning chores which Later, in the I300s, areas were claimed a small suburb of Dakar, the capital of were shared by the other girls. I couldn't by the Mali empire and in the 1500s the Senegal, West Africa. help but notice that the two boys did ab­ Songhai empire. During the 1700s, a My hosts, Coumba and Moussa, are solutely nothing. They just rose from militant Islamic state. Fanta Taro, ruled the parents of five children: Fatou, the bed, bathed, had their breakfast and in the Senegal River Valley. eldest daughter, followed by Anna, then disappeared until lunchtime. Oh, The Portuguese were the rust Euro­ Primera, Sakho, and the newest those lunches! Senegalese love to eat peans to land on Senegal's shores, but it member, born one month after my Tiep Bu Jen, a mixture of fish, rice. and came under French control by 1895. In departure, who to my delight was named pungent spices. It takes hours to cook on 1960, Senegal became an independent

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black. Enlertainmellt 35 republic. Senegal. Fadiouth, a small village in Dakar, the capital, is Senegal's, 10al, is virtually an island of sea shells. transportation and commercial center. While watching Coumba bargain over The most important exports are the price of fish at the seashore, amongst peanuts-and the merchandise is piled the gayly decorated fishing boats drawn high along the docks waiting to be load· up on the sand, I got my first lesson in ed onto ships. Also, the first World bartering. Festival of Negro Arts was held in Dakar I learned so much more from her and in 1966. from her entire family-about love, car­ My hosts were bent on sharing the ing, and, of course, sharing. After a richness of their native cultures with me. while. it was as if I had become a part of Seydou, another family friend, for ex­ the family and what had been only a ample, insisted I learn Wolof, a short visit appeared to have turned into language often used in Dakar. Seydou a pleasant eternity. I knew that leaving would constantly speak to me in Wolof the family would be like leaving my own in the hope that sooner br later I would kin. But, eventually, I had to say pick it up. However, I quickly found this magidem. On the day of my departure, Arabic·sounding language to have some it was heartbreaking to see Coumba real tongue twisters! Sakho and almost in tears. But I knew one thing-l Primera, the two younger girls, were would return. particularly endearing in their valiant ef­ If you too would like to experience a forts to teach me Wolor. They would vacation with a family abroad, SERVAS shyly approach me and say in French, provides a lisl of potential hosts in 82 "ca c'est kass (cup)," or "ca, c'est jen countries. Write to U.S. SERVAS, 11 (fish}." After several earnesl attempts, I lohn Street, Room 406, New York, NY learned only to remember simple words 10038 or call (212) 267-0252. Also, the like na nga de! (hello) and magidem Travelers Directory offers a registry of (good-bye). several hundred people who have agreed When Pappa got home from a hard to host foreign travelers in their home. 200 Beautiful Suites days work, he was never (00 tired to take They can be contacted c/o Tom Linn, us all out for a drive. One afternoon, we 6224 Baynton Street, Philadelphia, PA all ventured to 10al, located at the end 19144 or call (215) 438-1369. (, of the Little Coast. This is the birthplace of Leopold Senghor, the President of -Estelle Epps -Sauna & Steambath -Swimming Pool -Waterbeds A Vacation Fit For A King

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36 ROUTES, A Guide to Black Entertainment IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT PIZZA

pinion on what constitutes the of cheese and let it all bake into the pie. O ideal slice of pizza in New York is With these lessons behind us, let's go as varied as the innumerable toppings out for some pizza. I've taken the time that grace the pies. to single out some worthwhile places, Now that the outdoor season is upon and I'm sure I may have missed some. us, people will be eating mOTe and more After all, there's only so much of the on the run. Thus, pizza lovers will find nation's major pizza chains, Pizza Hut stuff you can eat. But here are the themselves faced with the agonizing and Shakey's, don't stand a chance with Routes Recommendations: question: Where do I gel a good slice'! the discriminating New York pizza Mariella's Pizzza-225 West 57 Though there are hundreds of places lover. But even without them, pizza is as St-757-3016 to choose from, one can rest assured simple to get in the City as a dirty look Gino's-275 Eighth Ave at 23rd that New York pizza runs the gamut from a harried pedestrian. Often the Street-929-948I from the horrendous (mangy moz­ neighborhood pizza parlor is a social Rocky's Pizza-1109 First zarella, with lost-at-sea-sauce) to the gathering place, where people do more Ave-371-4965 sublime (crisp and light, crust, balanced eating than socializing. However, the Goldberg's Pizzeria-998 Second seasonings). folks who know their stuff often roam Ave-593-2172 Pjzza, originally an Italian dish, like hungry nomads through the hustle Pizza Joint-2165 Broadway al 77 reaches into every ethnic nook and cran­ and bustle of the city in seach of the Street ny of Gotham, and for some has become celestial slice. Angelo's Pizza-3415 Broadway, as indispensable as "Monday Night Hunting down the ambitious Astoria, Queens-728-0430 Football" or URyan's Hope" in the "pizzerian" is worth it-if you know Sal's Pizzeria-liS Matt Street afternoon. what to look for. Generally, make sure (They serve the original pizza Pizza is not, like many have been led it's a clean establishment. The demeanor napoletana verace) to believe, an American invention. But of the place may well ~eflect on the kind Catania's-2316 Arthur Ave, then again, it's only a partially Italian in­ of pizza you will get. Bronx vention, too. Many Italian cities were Primarily, quality ingredients are im­ Donato's Pizza-1455 St. Nicholas founded by Greeks. The most famous portant, and although pizza's basic in­ Ave near 181 Street being Naples-the home of pizza. But gredients are simple enough (yeast Jamaica Pizza-I66-Q3 Jamaica original Neapolitan pizza (pizza dough, covered with tomatoes and moz­ Ave, Queens-657-2635 napa/elana verace) is different from zarella cheese), some slices don't even Parson's Pizza-87-82 Parsons what you now pick up on Eighth Avenue meet these minimum standards, never­ Blvd, Queens-523-7579 as "a slice. " mind appeal to the picky connoisseur. Pizza Spot-433 DeKalb Ave, Blisted in a wood fired beehive-shaped Cheese that you can chew and swallow is Brooklyn-783-9l73 oven for three minutes, the thin crisp only reasonable. A crust that's not too My humble apologies to Ihose with pizza napa/elana verace was a thin, crisp thin or thick, along with a fragrant tasty good pizza that are not on the list, but mini-pie, not the popular wedge we have sauce, in my opinion, is not too not to those who fed me soggy, cold, come to know. much to ask for. Lukewarm pizza unfor­ and flavorless pizza. Before World War II, pizza eating tunately, is a recurring phenomenon at At most of these places, you can ex­ was generally limited to southern Italy lousy storefront establishments around pect to spend between 50 cents and 80 and it was brought to America by the town. It is advisable to watch the person cents for a slice, and more if you want Italian immigrants who settled in the na­ behind the counter closely and keep an extra cheese or a particular topping. tion's urban areas. However, the GI's eye on what they're doing with your The Japanese like their pizza with and the post-war tourist boom brought slice. Your pizza, if pre-baked, should squid, soybeans, bamboo shoots or the pizza to these shores in a big way. be put back into the oven long enough to strawberries. The French often throw on Currently, Americans eat 54 billion help the crust firm up and prevent it a raw egg before baking, while worth of the stuff each year. Not sur­ from wilting all over the place. Garnish Australians go Hawaiian style with a lit­ prisingly, pizza is nosing out hot-dogs on YQur pizza is up to you, but the Quali­ tle pineapple. The Brazilians like plums (street vendors might argue this point), ty of toppings vary from parlor to and figs on theirs. And New Yorkers? fried chicken and that perennial fast­ parlor. Well, they like it SMOGGY. (Sausage, food winner, the hamburger, as The chefs al Ray's Pizza (465 Sixth Mushrooms, Onions, Green peppers). il America's favorite fast food. It is Ave. at 11th Streel), place your toppings undeniably New York's favorite. The on the ordered slice, add an extra layer -Michael George

ROUTES, A Guide 10 Black Erlfertainme1l1 37 I

DINING LISTINGS

MANHATTAN Ganghla Khan', Marvin'. Gardan sea Far. of 197 Columbus A"/89th 51 2274 B'way/82nd 5t the "eg.an QUEENS Quaint and colorful. AE,MC,V accepled. 25 W. 56lh 51 L: Ir 52; 0: lr 512. 799-0578 Exceptional seafood. Blu. H,wIU Carmlch•• AE,V,DC,MC accepted. L: 59.25 and up; 0: I', 135 Third Av 117-Q8 New York BI"d Reservations suggested. Mu••um Cat. 59.25-120. AE,CB,DC,MC Mon-Frl Supper Club enter· Good home cooking, 595-2138 Columbus A" talnment, Sat DIsco. 366 especially salmon cro­ Casual, artsy & colorful. "'<>5'0 260-7690 Quette breaklnt and Ol...on', L: 52.50-5.00;0:55-$10. SlCond Edition biscuits. Public Hou,. 724-7509 251 W. 26th 51 Br...... 7""'908 100 East 53rd 51 400 Columbus A"l79th 51 Freoch and Continental Fish, lowl and beel OInophllla cuisines. AE,OC,MC,V. '" I, carte Lob,t... Tank speciallles. L: fr 13.25; 473 Columbus A" 924·29« L: fr. $3.75 seafood Hou.. 0: Ir 55.95. AE Accepted. Sun brunch $o4.9S-$7.95 0:fr.$·'.15 134-30 Northern BI"d 874-8726 0: 57.9S-$12.95 Taco VIII. AE,BA,CB,DC,MC Cozy atmosphere. Great 580-8127 368 Columbus A" Open 24 hours. lobster and steak. Mexican cuisine. 751·4840 Hom of Planly 359-9220 91 Charles St L:52.50-53.50 0: The C.lllr LI"es up 10 lIS name; TIl. Only Child 55.50-$8.95. AE,MC,V. 70 W. 95th St. SOuthern food speclaitleS. 226 W. 79th 51 580-7826 Columbus Ave DInner only-S8.50-515.50. Good SOuthern lood. 874-8577 T.ach.,.. BROOKLYN ""'200 AE,BA,MC 242-0636 2249 B'waylSht 5t Chelhlre ChM•• ParenIIM,•• AE,DC,MC Gao. a Tollnar 319 W. 51s1 SI. 392 Columtlu' A" 787.JSOO 374 FuitOfl St English cuIsine, Continental cutslne. AE,MC,V. Top 01 the P.rt. A. Brooklyn landmark delicious cheese soup opened In 1879. Still and sliced steak.A fa carte. Hwa Yuan 787-6922 C.P.WJ6Oth St Szechuan Inn (Alop Ihe G & W serving excellenl L; 56.75-$17.50 American dIshes. 0: $9.75-$19.50 40 E. Broadway Peach T~ Building) Famous for sleak and 765-0616 informat dining. 557 W.125th 5t Spectacular "lew, con­ Excellent beef and scallions SOuthern lood a\ tinental service, interna· seafood. and moo goo gal pan reasonable prices. Cash tlonal menu. 0: AE,OC,MC,V. Th' Cockeyed Clams 875·5181 1678 Third Av. dishes. only. 864·9310 512.95-519.50 966-5534/5535 AE,DC,CB,V,MC. Reser· 94th 51. L. Villa ea.. Storlca Sealood lare, nautical Poletti', vatlons required. 2315 B'way/804th St 333·3800 225 Ninth 5t decor. Unusually atmospheric. $.4.00-$7.00 Jack'a N.,I Excellent lIalian Fine food, menu "aries Cash only 310 Third A"'23 rd 51 cuisine. A la carte. The N•• Small, Traditional soul food. 0:$o4.50-S8.5O. Paradl" dally. ReS&l'\Iatlons suggested. Dinner only. 831 .... '21 $04-57. MC,AE,V. AE,DC,V,MC. Reserva· 2294 Se"enth A" 260-7110 lions suggested. Breakfast, lunch, dinner 510.95-512.95. Reserva­ 580-1200 283-8725 tions required. Cotton Club 788-5883 666 W. 1251h SI. TIla Jamaican Sunday Brunch 10 am­ 432 Sixth A"/IOth 51 R.n. Pujol .4 pm. Open dally Jamaican lood specialties 321 W. 51st St All maJor ctedll cards and seafood dishes. Dinner Soulh 01 France honored. only. AE,OC,V,MC. Reserva· cuisine. Oulet and at· tlons suggested. mospherlc. L:S8.50-59.75 O.vld'. Pol Belly 932·326 0:513.00-516.00 98 Christopher SI. AE,OC,V. Reservations InUmale atmosphere. Jaw.1 required. ,....---... ---...., Delicious crepes; omelets; 1279 First A"/69th St 246-3023 t halt pound hamburgers; Warm almosphere; Interna· I 6A£HTIW6 numerous Ice cream tlonal menu. AE,OC,V,MC. Th. R.d Baron I'd"._ goodies. $2.95-15.50. Cash 737-3735 201 Columbus A"I691h American and Continen­ .. only. Open "10111 5 am. A .--...... ; -*'e..n. 243-9614 Jock'a Plac. tal cuisines. 2350 Se"enlh A" L:S3.50-$8.75: Dob~'. R"t.ur,nl Open lrom 3 pm dally.Con­ O:S8.lX).$IO.OO. IOlIIIIOOcrx:w;; ~c-.I(:UClCOK>l 341 Columbus A"f76th St Iinental and soul cuisines. AE,OC,V,MC. L: S3: 0:55. AE,V,MC 283-9288 IRll ~7"'.'"»- .Ol:lroo accepled. Reservations re­ .s... __ . DllMk' Quired. La Famili. Red Roo,tlt" r..,s. _3Oom._ 18.864·9310 362-0100 2017 Filth A" -2354 Se"enth A" 283-9252 Long established soul food ~M1_-.sn._~mOO'1f~ El.phant a Ca,ll. ealerle. 68 Greenwich A" 534-0000 Rlkyu Jap,n••• R••l.urant -- Great omelets and qulche;exceptlonal desserts, L. Tabllta 210 Columbus A" A ia carte 52-6. 65 W. 73rd 51 799·78047 AE,BA,CB,DC accepted. Italian cuisine. All major 243·1400 credit carda accepled. 874·9120 ~ E1tIMr Eng ffflene g'JU • t J:! 18 Pell St Lo, Panchoa Cal. a R.ataurant ~ 53-59. AE,BA,DC,CB,MC ac· Ruskay'. R...,."., Fro.",. cepted. 71 W. 71s1 St 323 Columbus A"f75th "Magnificent food .eryed in a Spanish cuisine. I 873-0750 Warm, candlelight Frenclt.coun"y.jnn atmo,plt.,." 864·9378 duplex dining or L~rtch • Cocktail, • Dinner. Aft,r llIJ.tr. FaaU,." R.ataurant sIdewalk cale. B: 51.75; rlfoat. Partv Itoom ... elol.d Sun. 24 Filth A"l9th St Main Slr"1 L:$3.00; 0:511.00. Cash 321 W 51 Sl., NYC ....: 24~.3023 or 174·107. Sidewalk cale and gas 75 Greenwich A" only. Open 24 hours on IIghting.AE,OC,B,MC. Regional American cuisine. L: on weekends only. 673-0750 929-1579 874-8391 PEOPLE MONTE IRVIN Monte Irvin may not be as popular a name in baseball as Jackie Robinson, but he has made baseball history in his own way. Irvin, as special assistant to baseball commissioner. Bowie Kuhn, is the first black athlete ever to hold a high administrative position in baseball. He is still the only black in baseball's ad­ ministrative hierarchy, following the re­ cent death of Em Ashford, the first black umpire, who was also employed by the commissioner. As special assistant, Irvin acts as a representative. His position calls for special skills in public relations and troubleshooting. He has to explain the commissioner's oftentimes unpopular points of view and actions to those who disagree. Case in point: Hank Aaron refused to show up for a luncheon in his honor because Kuhn was absent from the game where Aaron hit his record-breaking home run. Kuhn had sent Irvin. "Apparently he (Kuhn) thought that was sufficient, but Hank Aaron didn't think so," explained Irvin. With players like Aaron and Lou Brock speaking out against the absence of blacks in front office, managerial and other pivotal baseball positions, Irvin is often in a tough situation. He is one of the most respected figures in baseball and a man well-suited for his post. He considered his appointment l'A great opportunity. I welcomed the chance to make a contribution, and I have done so." Irvin once said, "If there hadn't been a color line when I got out of high school, 1 think I could have made the majors at the age of 18." Born in Columbia, Alabama, Irvin got his athletic start in an Orange, New Jersey school. After two years of college, he signed to play professional baseball in the Cuban Winter League, where he was spotted by a New York Giants scout and signed to play in the big leagues. He was a 30-year-old rookie and part of the "Miracle Team" of 1951 that came from 13 games behind, to take the pennant as you have excellent baseball, as long as there is a long way to go. Just like the in­ away from the Brooklyn Dodgers in a you have the stars playing the game, it's tellectuals, athletes, too, have con­ dramatic playoff game. Injuries, going to be the number one sport. II tributed. however, brought his career to an end in Irvin knows what sports means to the Monte Irvin will be listened to in the 1956, while with the Chicago Cubs. youngster who dreams of breaking out future, learned from and as one of the Monte Irvin loves baseball. He knows of the limited horizons of the sand lot. It bright minds in Bowie Kuhn's office, his stuff. He doesn't feel that the free bothers him when accomplished athletes will have some personal input into the agents, big salaries and superstars are don't take the time to inspire the young. solutions of many problems. He's that having a negative effect on the game. "Sportsmen have contributed to the kind of person. "Baseball is too great for that. As long overall struggle for blacks. We know -Michael George

ROUTES, A Gllide 10 Black £ll1ertainmell1 39 FASHION

exans may sneer and snicker, and T 01' l.R. Ewing'd curl his lip, but New Yorkers are getting into the western look and, surprisingly, are carrying it off with great style. The Western Look has become a part of cosmopolitan New York, and maitre d's at expensive reSlaurants no longer even as much as blink an eye at the sight of Stetson· hatted, bolo-tied customers. But what, to the urbane New Yorker, is the western look? "It's romance, it's freedom, it's a feeling," a salesman al the exclusive weSlern shop, McCreedy and Schrieber. renected. At McCreedy's, the price for beautiful hand-tooled leather boots can run into the four digits and similarly high-priced items move just as fast as less expensive styles. But the western look is also denim and lei-colored cowboy shirts with yokes (a kind of scalloped cut), snaps instead of buttons, and piping (a thin roll of decorative material). h's the bolo (str­ ing) tie, the wide-brimmed hats, the pointy-toed boots, and the perennial blue jeans. While searching to unravel the mysteries of the western look, one will quickly find that there are two distinct categories; the gentleman cowboy and the ranch hand. Gentleman cowboy would apply to James Gardner in "Wheeler Dealers" or Larry Hagman in television's "Dallas"-tailored suits with yokes and piping, and arrow stitch­ ed pocket corners; lizard-footed, tooled cowboy boOts and trim, and light tan Stetson hats and cologne. Ranch hand, by contrast, is flashy yoked shirts (everything western is yok­ ed), blue jeans, bandanas, and leather jackets. The demand for western clothes east "tlfNI \/oorr of Amarillo and Abilene has inspired fashion designers like Ralph Lauren to creat a special line. None other than western look customers, "The drugstore Bloomingdale's on New York's cowboys. They come in here and say fashionable East Side, carries the line, they want to look like Texans, even which includes a western-oriented men's though mOSt of them have never been cologne called "Chaps." Bloomie's closer to a horse than the ones they see houses two Lauren western shops-one on television. for men on the main floor and another "Even I've only been on a horse for women on the third level. once," he grinned. 'It went up and A salesman on the main floor, wear­ down to music and kept passing a brass ing a fringed leather jacket and calico ring. " print bandana called New York's While Lauren offers neophytes such

40 ROUTESJ A Guide 10 Black Elllertai"menl clothes. But still, nobody seems to have a handle on just what kicked off its popularity in the concrete canyons of New York. Michael, of the Lee Shop in Brooklyn, thinks that it's always been AMARILLO IN NEW YORK with us. "If you go out west you'll see people who've been dressing like that all their lives and whose parents probably dress­ ed like that, too. The typical western cut in clothes has been pretty much standar­ dized for the past 30 years. So people pick a boot they like, and a shirt and will keep buying that same style over and over again. It's always available." Legend has it that snaps on shirts in­ stead of buttons, came about because pioneer women, wielding heavy clothes irons, didn't have time to carefully press around fragile shell buttons, and usually smashed them. Necessity, always being the mother of invention, solved the pro· blem with snaps. The bandana, on the other hand, was designed to be pulled over the nose and mouth to keep out trail dust after women got tired of men ripping up shirts to protect their faces from the rugged outdoor life of early America. Similarly, the cavalry shirt, with its high neck cut, was designed to fight trail dust. The classic western boot, according to folk tale, was cut so that cowboys jump· ing on their horses could easily slide their feet into the stirrups. And last but not least, Levi Strauss supposedly designed the, rivetted blue jean because gold miners complained that their threaded pants pockets kept tearing from the weight of the gold ore they stored. But all of that is a long way from the asphalt of New York, and it could hardly be argued that urbanites are turning to bandanas to keep out big city pollution. Michael, whose shop specializes in Dan Post western boots (Post also makes Lauren's boots), thinks that in New York, the casual, yet flamboyant western look, grew out ofthe popularity of the Frye boot in the early 70s. Michael, incidentally, calls New Yorkers in western gear "Brownstone Cowboys." If you stop and talk to people on the street about the western look, you'll find that many native New Yorkers luxuries as supple suede cavalry shirts remember dressing up to play cowboy for $3.50, the words of Hollywood dress and cowgirl as kids, when Roy Rodgers designer Bob Mackie (designer for Cher, and Dale Evans rode off into the sunset Carol Burnett and Diana Ross) should on their horses singing Happy Trails To not be ignored. He feels, quite bluntly, You. that designer western wear is a ripoff Ifall this has left you dying to get your copy of items available at authentic own western outfit, iust remember-it's riding and western shops at a mere frac­ also a state of mind, so don't run to the tion of the cost. store, just ramble. A lot of celebrities, including Teddy Pendergrass, have popularized western -Barbara Silverstone

ROUTES, A Guide to Black £nrertainmenr 41 ~------Yes,l want to start following ROUTES right away. I Please start my subscription immediately, I have enclosed my I payment for: I 0 one year(12 issues) $12 Dtwo years (24 issues) $20 [I three years (36 issues) $30 I Name _ I I Address _ I City State ,Zip I Enclose payment and mail to: ROUTES I BOX 767 ' Flushing, N.Y. 11352 L ______.J AZIE TAYLDRMORTON TreasurerofU.S. ERSAH.POSTON Huston-Tillotson College Civil Service Commissioner JOHN E. REINHARDT Allanla University Director of U.S. International Communication Agency Knoxville College

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tis Redding was only 26 years old O when his twin-engine Beechcraft plane crashed into Lake Pomona, Wisconsin on December to, 1967, sen­ ding him to an untimely death. One could never tell by listening to his memorable recordings such as Try A Little Tenderness or Pain In My Heart, that he was that young. But there was a quality of universal weariness in his voice that spoke of painful life ex­ periences. If ever a man had sung as if the world were pressing upon his shoulders, it was Otis. He captured the languid beauty of the rural South with wonderful ease. His version of early rhythm and blues star Solomon Burke's Down In The Valley. created a landscape of green grass, warm sun and tranquil surroundings, while re­ maining true to the song's story line. His voice, in fact, had many of the same qualities as that of Ray Charles, who was born not far from Otis's native soil and who still sings with that hauntingly beautiful worldly timbre. Otis Redding was born in Dawson, Georgia into a family of eight. His father, a minister, brought the family to Macon when Otis was still a child. Macon was the home town of Little Richard, a singer whose revolutionary rock style would have a profound in­ fluence on young Redding. Otis's first singing experience was in his father's church, where he also learned to playa wide range of musical instruments, in­ cluding the guitar, bass, organ, piano and drums. Otis started working at odd jobs when Otis Redding he was 15 years old, and before long he Alshire label (yet another Little Richard and hadn't established itself yet as a ma­ joined a band called Johnny Jenkins and imitation). Both were sales fiascos and it jor recording center. Stewart, however, the Pinetoppers. He did some singing was clear that Otis's admiration for Lit­ was confident about his plan to mold the for them, but his main role as a Pinetop­ tle Richard was slowing up his own talents of Memphis musicians and per was to be a chauffeur. creative development. singers and make it payoff. Nonetheless, a determined Otis Red­ As 1962 rolled around, Otis was still Throughout the audition, Otis Quietly ding cut his first record in 1960 on the driving the Pinetoppers to gigs at col­ but persistently suggested he be allowed Bethlehem label. The A-side was an leges and dance halls throughout the to sing, too-an idea that simply fell on uptempo rocker entitled, Shout South, Although the fellows were mak­ deaf ears. At the end of the session, Bama/ama, where his vocals, according ing a steady living as a dance band, the Stewart finally gave in to Otis's pleas to all reports, sounded just like Little Pinetoppers were looking to join a solid and the young kid from Macon belted Richard's. The record was greeted by a recording company and become national out in the best traditions of his musical less than enthusiastic public. attractions. idol. Oops. Stewart all but stopped him A year later, Otis traveled to Califor· So, in 1962, the group, along with dead in his tracks and told him to try his nia, where, for six months, he worked as Otis, their rather shy driver, traveled to hand at a ballad. Somewhat embarrass­ a cabbie and performed other odd jobs. Memphis to audition for Jim Stewart, ed, Otis said he did have a self­ He managed to cut a couple of singles on the president of S(ax Records. The com­ composed ballad, These Arms of Mine the Fine Arts label and another on the pany was only two years old at the time and volunteered to sing it instead. It

ROUTES, A Guide to Black Entertainmelll 45 didn't make waves. Stewart felt it was his recordings, which some believe ex­ By 1966, his acceptance among urban too country-influenced to appeal to the plains the smooth interaction between and rural blacks rivaled James Brown urban market he had targeted. But for his voice and the instruments. In fact, and many of the Motown acts. While some reason, the song was released the horns and reeds on his recordings commercial success in America's pop anyway-even though Stewart said, "no sound like extensions of his own voice, mainstream eluded him for quite some one in the studio nipped over it." as he uses them to punctuate emotional time, he was popular in England and Otis's new song, however, became passages and give a running commentary France, where fans honored him as' one almost an immediate success. Stewart, on the lyric. His songs, in fact, were of their own. to no one's surprise, signed Otis to a created in a collaborative manner similar His break into the pop field occured at long-term contract with Volt Records, a to the MG's, who worked off each the same time and at the same place as it subsidiary of Stax. Otis wrote and other's riffs rather than follow charts. did for Jimi Hendrix-at the Monterey helped to arrange a long list of emo­ Otis's ability to improvise was always Pop Festival in 1967. Otis was on the bill tionally fulfilling and creative recor­ put to good use during recording ses­ with Janis Joplin, Simon and Gar­ dings, aided by Isaac Hayes on piano, sions. When Stax decided Otis should funkel, Jefferson Airplane and the the Barkays and the MG's (Booker T. record the Rolling Stones's Satisfaction, Who. Jones on organ, Steve Cropper on the final product was a classic Redding This commercial success brought him guitar, Duck Dunn on bass and Al interpretation. The MG's Steve Cropper the long awaited financial rewards Jackson on drums). remembered, "We listened to the (Roll­ -enough to buy a private plane that His compositions included Mr. ing Stones's) record five minutes before soon thereafter would fall out of the Pitiful, I've Been Loving You Too we recorded it. I copied down what 1 Wisconsin sky and bring his life to an Long, and Aretha Franklin's famous thought the lyrics were and handed the abrupt end. Respecr-all of them helped to define piece of paper to Otis. Before we got Otis's funeral was held in the Macon the "Memphis Sound." The late drum­ through, he threw the paper on the County Auditorium where 4500 fans mer Al Jackson, once recalled having a floor." flocked to pay final tribute. . talk with Otis about life-the kind of During his days at Stax, Otis also Otis Redding has been immonalized earnest yet playful talk close friends started his own publishing company, on wax. Among the most memorable sometimes have. "I said, 'What are you Redwal Music, and a record label, Jotis, long playing albums are; "History of griping about! You're on the road all the distributed by Stax. He worked to Otis Redding"(I967), "Otis Blue"(1965), time, all you can look for is a little groom several performers. His greatest "In Person At The Whiskey A Go-Go," respect when you get home"" The last success was the honing of Arthur Con­ and "Otis ReddinglJimi Hendrix At line set the stage for Aretha's chart­ ley, a rough baritone, who recorded The Monterey Pop Festival." buster. Sweet Soul Music; Otis's powerhouse Otis wrote most of the horn lines on tribute to the Memphis Sound. -Nelson George

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