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Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2413
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Sunday, September 19, 2004 - 8:04 pm: �� |   ��� |
Saturday night, there was one hell of a show at The Beacon Theater! Of the many highlights, Russell Thompkins & The New Stylistics, were truly superb!
Now, let me start by saying this: I'm not interested in getting into any debates about this one against that one. I'm talking about what I saw & heard TONIGHT! As such, this isn't about comparing anyone, nor is this about who's your personal favorite. If that's what you want to discuss, please take it to another thread. However, if you want to hear about tonights' show, it's all love here 
This was my first taste of Russell & The New Stylistics. After reading all of the back & forth, I was eagerly awaiting their performance. I must tell you that Russell & the fellas were in fine form. In a theatre that is notorious for its bad accoustics, Russell & The New Stylistics were simply superb. They sang to a house that was filled to capacity, actually, it was standing room only. As I was one of those standees, I have to say that after hearing Russell & The New Stylistics perform, it was well worth the fatigued legs!
I'll run through the songs later today. For now, I am just happy to say that Russell & The New Stylistics gave a strong performance. The fellas were in tremendous form & Russell was wonderful! He upper register was clear & steady & his voice was strong! Usually, the upper register is the first thing to go on most falsetto singers. Russells' range hasn't lost a thing. No pitch correction machines, no echo machines, no parlor tricks & no singers hiding in the wings. It was simply the voices of Russell & The New Stylistics.
Judging from the crowd response, that was more than good enough.
If you didn't get to see this show, I'll tell you that you really missed some excellent performances! Russell & The New Stylistics were one of the highlights of one excellent show. They were warmly received before & even moreso, AFTER their performances. Russell had an audience full of "New Stylistics", as nearly the entire crowd sang along to every song. I ran into my supervisor, who unbeknownst to me, was seated right behind me. Needless to say, she was a Stylistic for the night There was nothing but good vibes in The Beaon & fortunately for me, I have it live & in living color
I must also say that their Philly crew are some of the most down to earth, laid back & friendly people that you could meet. Mrs Florence Thompkins is one of the most down to earth people that you could ever meet. Quiet, quick with a smile, a handshake & just all around cool. Kenny, better known here as Piano Man, is one of those brothers that when you meet him once, it's as though you're old friends. The brother is friendly, warm & extremely helpful. Truthfully, ALL of them extended themselves above & beyond what was reasonably expected. These are some very cool people & I thank them for their help & their hospitality. They opened their tour bus to Vonnie & myself, sat & talked like old friends & readily answered any & all questions that we had for them.
After the show, we stood around for awhile & Russell finally made it to the bus. Now, he just finished performing, was probably still a bit wet from his efforts. it felt like it was 40 degrees outside & a bit breezy. Nevertheless, Russell took the time to stop & speak with & take pictures with anyone who asked him. He didn't try to make a run for the border. He was patient & sincerely appreciative of the kinds words & well wishes given him. For all of his accomplishments, it's refreshing to see that he has respect for his fans. So many others with lesser accomplishments, need to take a page from his book.
Russell & The New Stylistics are excellent all the way around & I wish them much continued success. Judging from the crowds' response, they'll always have a home here in New York
Again, thank you Florence & Piano Man for extending yourselves to relative strangers. Your graciousness, hospitality & kindness was greatly appreciated. I look forward to seeing you at Thomasinas later this year!
Now, for some shots from the show:
(Message edited by juicefree20 on September 19, 2004)
(Message edited by juicefree20 on September 19, 2004)
(Message edited by juicefree20 on September 19, 2004) |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 33
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 4.238.246.239
| | Posted on Sunday, September 19, 2004 - 10:30 pm: �� | ��� |
juicefree20
Thanks for those kind words..It was all of our pleasure to have met you and Vonnie and tehera(Wrong spelling)..I must say that your are a cool Brother yourself.Stay in touch with me..Thanks for coming!!! |
Shawn1 (shawn1b)
5-Doyen
Username: shawn1b
Post Number: 177
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 65.30.13.211
| | Posted on Sunday, September 19, 2004 - 11:33 pm: �� | ��� |
So per this PBS Special I saw last night their are two groups of Sylelistics now because per the show they showed a group Performing in Europe somewhere but the guy singing lead although sounded just like the record was way to young to be the actual singer .Shawn |
Soul Sister (soul_sister)
6-Zenith
Username: soul_sister
Post Number: 1741
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 65.43.145.122
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 12:58 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice;
Nice pics. Did you get any of 'The Manhattans' or others on that "gig"?
Glad you & Vonnie enjoyed yourselves so much!!
S.S. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2414
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 1:06 am: �� | ��� |
What's up Piano Man?
I thank you & Florence for your hospitality & help. Actually, I thank the entire entourage, from Florences' brother, to the wife of your drummer. Sometimes, you know how it can be, folks put on airs & stuff like that. I'm just happy to be able to say that you folks are good people. Believe me, if that weren't the case, I would have had absolutely nothing to say here. Little by little, my musical heroes are doing me proud. I have to include Russell, The Stylistics & their families to that list. Between you good folks & the folks whom I met at The PBS Special, you folks are restoring my faith in entertainers. With all of the negativity that I've heard & read about, it's really good to be able to state some positive news! On that note brother, y'all keep on risin' to the top!
I try to be a man of my word, I was more than a little tired, but the video is finished. Email me with your & Florences info. I'll see that you get it within the week.
Shawn: You are correct. I believe that Special originally aired at the end of last year, or, early this year. And unfortunately, it wasn't Russell & The New Stylistics. I look forward to PBS booking Russell for a future special. In my opinion, that would be the right thing to do. As I said, I don't want to get into comparisons & I'll knock no one. To be fair, Mr Brown is a good singer. However, having said that, I must say this: I'm a man who loves the real article. And when the real McCoy is still around & sounding good.......
I think that you understand what I'm saying |
MoMotown (momotown)
3-Pundit
Username: momotown
Post Number: 56
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 216.249.66.226
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 2:55 am: �� | ��� |
Juice, it sounds as though you really had a great evening. Believe me, I know exactly what you are talking about. When I saw them recently it was at a small private set, and I can't wait to see them in action at a different venue where there are true Stylistics fans all around me. I agree with you, everyone involved in Russell's organization is so personable and the love for what they are doing is not only heard but felt. I look forward to the opportunity to say hello in person to Florence one day as I feel I already know her. I agree with you, not putting anyone else down, it would be a treat to have Russell and the New Stylistics appear on the next PBS Special, and I'm going to start my e-mail campaign to that end. Again, so glad you had a great evening. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2418
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 3:49 am: �� | ��� |
Good afternoon
Hi Soul Sister: I have to tell you that Gerald & Blue's Manhattans weren't performing. I was very disappointed about that. However, in the spirit of fairness, The Manhattans acquitted themselves pretty well. Before the show, I learned that Gerald & Blues's group wasn't going to be there, I looked forward to hearing The Manhattans for myself & to listen to them with an open mind & an non-prejudiced ear.
Were they Gerald & Blue's Manhattans, of course not. Gerald & Blue are legends & it's totally unfair for anyone to compare the two groups. With that said, they were pretty good. I did miss that chime like harmony that The Manhattans had with Gerald, Blue & the fellas. I'm sorry that we'll likely never see that combination together on stage again. The Manhattans were pretty good, however, Gerald & Blue were most definitely missed. As regards pictures, they closed the show. My Sony battery proved that it had no bunny running around in it, it didn't keep going & going & going! After 2 + hours of taping, its get up & go, got up & left. I may have a minute or so of them. In fact, had they simply come on stage when announced, instead of having their band vamp for a few minutes, I'd have gotten more of their show.
MoMotown: When you start your e-mail campaign, let me know. I'd be more than happy to sign it! As I said, this was one hell of a show. They called it "The Big Show" & I have to say that everyone got their moneys' worth. It was entertaining ALL THE WAY THROUGH! It was great to hear Russell live up to expectations & in strong voice. I thought about some of those classic songs & Russells upper register sounds stronger these 30 years later. That honestly surprised me. The GROUP sounded good & if The Beacon had halfway decent accoustics, I can only imagine how good they would have sounded.
AS for Mrs Tompkins & Piano Man, let me say this: the way they speak with you here, is the was that they'll speak to you when you meet. There's no fronting & no B.S. with them. Once they remembered us from the forum, it was as though they knew us. They didn't treat us like fans, they treated us like friends & believe me, I know the difference. We weren't the only ones to be treated like this. Before the show, there was a gentleman who came to the bus to say hello & Flo & her brother remembered him, though he hadn't seen Russell for over 15 years. When you do meet them, you'll see what I mean & again, in the sea of negativity that can be the music industry, it's a nice thing when folks like these, have personalities that are in equal proportion to their talents. They were real people, extremely unpretentious & that's all that I can say about them.
Thank you for the kind words & by the way, I must tell you that they DO read SoulfulDetroit & have nothing but good words for our forum. They enjoy coming here & chatting. So, when you do meet them & mention SoulfulDetroit, it's like you're among family. Take that to the bank!
Yes, it was a pleasure & I'm telling you, if I keep meeting fine people like Russell, Flo & Kenny, my faith in this industry will be restored. I've met nothing but good people these last two months. Out of the 30 some acts whom I met over the last 2 months, only one person comported themself with zero class & was extremely anti-social to even her PEERS! When you see the show & go back to my future PBS postings, it will become clear to whom I'm referring. This artist who had all of two smashes, strode through EVERYONE as though they were glass walls.
Russell's had how many hits over the years? And he takes time to ACKNOWLEDGE his fans. I won't even give her the benefit of BAD publicity by calling her name. She's as invisible to me as everyone was to her over the course of those two days.
For my part, I'd prefer to talk about the positive experiences with folks like Russell & The New Stylistics. The way that they go about their business is how you keep old fans & gain new ones along the way. Some folks could really learn from what I'm saying here! |
Soul Sister (soul_sister)
6-Zenith
Username: soul_sister
Post Number: 1743
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 65.43.145.122
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 4:13 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice;
No sweat, I have no interest whatsoever in Sonny's group with Lee Williams. I think it's sad the way they copy Gerald but there's only one Gerald just as there was only one Smitty!!
S.S. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2424
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 4:52 am: �� | ��� |
Hi Soul Sister,
The lead singer was wise enough to not try to copy Gerald. He sang the songs with his own style. He did a pretty good job, but to quote an 70s Manhattan song.............
IT'S NOT THE SAME
I'm feeling you, let's leave it at that |
Nosey (nosey)
5-Doyen
Username: nosey
Post Number: 271
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 205.188.116.138
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 6:06 am: �� | ��� |
Juice, great report. Those guys look quite nice in those suits. Hopefully, the next time they're close to home, I won't lay down for a quick nap and wake up too late. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2428
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 10:04 am: �� | ��� |
Nosey,
You should be ashamed of yourself!!!
|
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2433
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 11:26 am: �� | ��� |
Here's a sequence of the fellas performing:
 
 
 
 
  |
Kdubya (paladin)
5-Doyen
Username: paladin
Post Number: 334
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 206.185.64.23
| | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 11:16 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice, great shots, great story. Your articulation of the manner with which the Stylistics compose themselves and their organization is quite refreshing. The Dells and Chi-lites are extremely fan friendly as well. Thanks for sharing.
Kdubya |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 34
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 66.119.34.39
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 8:26 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice
Can I get a Hard copy of those Pictures on this Site...call me or Flo....Thanks....GREAT SHOTS!!!! |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2439
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:31 am: �� | ��� |
Thanks Kdub,
I was lucky enough to be able to get it on video & I'm telling you, the entire show was great & Russell & The New Stylistics did their thing! I'm waiting to catch them at a venue that has a sound system worthy of their talents. I'm glad that there's a Beacon Theatre, but their accoustics are terrible. I'm still waiting to meet The Dells, I will do so someday! I found The Whispers to be very friendly as well. What I find interesting is that most of the artists seem really shocked when I mention an LP cut that wasn't a hit. They're always pleasantly surprised when I mention those cuts.
Piano Man: What's up bro!!! All you have to do is send me both your & Flo's mailing info & a copy of the performance will be in the mail by tomorrow. I'll send it as an MPEG file & you can watch it on the computer! E-mail me at juicefree@hotmail.com. I didn't take any stills, I'm pulling the photos from the video. I can zoom in tighter with my camcorder. It's a lot more work, but well worth the effort! Send me the info as soon as you get this message.
Thanks again for the hospitality & kindness
(Message edited by juicefree20 on September 20, 2004) |
Vonnie (vonnie)
5-Doyen
Username: vonnie
Post Number: 295
Registered: 3-2004
Posted From: 152.163.100.74
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:15 pm: �� | ��� |
I've been quite busy since I saw the show at the Beacon Theater, but I wanted to give my props to Russell Thompkins Jr. and The New Stylistics. I sat and listened to a performance that was stellar despite the theater acoustics. This group of guys blew the crowd away with their performance. Russell's voice was pristine, and he and his group gave the crowd a thrill they will never forget, and the crowd responded with resounding ovation and love. It just goes to show you, you can't fool the true music devotees. Russell Thompkins Jr. and The New Stylistics made me feel "Brand New". |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 60
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:46 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice,
I'm glad you enjoyed the show and it was great meeting you. Thanks for all the kind words. It's people like you that make it all possible. Look forward to seeing you again at the Thomasina Club. They will be able to perform their full one hour show and you'll be in for a treat. I'll send the mailing info to your email. Thanks again. |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 61
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:50 pm: �� | ��� |
Vonnie,
What can I say. It was like I've known you all my life. Glad you enjoyed the show and I know we'll hook up again in the future. It was also nice meeting Tahira. She's a sister that seems to really have her act together. Tell Bobby I said hello and I hope that things went well for him in Tennesse. |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 62
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:53 pm: �� | ��� |
Piano Man,
You guys kicked it on Saturday. Russell & I are extremely happy to have all of you guys and gal with the organization. Keep on doing it! |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 63
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 9:59 pm: �� | ��� |
New Stylistics,
I'm so proud of you guys I could cry. You were exceptionally debonair, smooth, and sweet sounding at the Beacon. I have to tell you, without bias, over the 33 years that Russell was with the old group I never saw them perform as well as you. The vocals and the choreography were so tight and you had the audience in the palm of your hand. That's what professionalism is all about. The old group never had that. |
Nosey (nosey)
5-Doyen
Username: nosey
Post Number: 273
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 66.153.113.238
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 - 10:31 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice, I couldn't help it. We were preparing for the new school year at work and I was working for what seemed like round the clock! I hope to redeem myself real soon. |
MoMotown (momotown)
3-Pundit
Username: momotown
Post Number: 57
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 216.249.71.75
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 10:09 am: �� | ��� |
Hi Florence (and Piano Man and TFFP). Florence, I can feel the pride you have in Russell and the new group all the way to L.A. I think back to when we first started corresponding on the first forum and how things have taken off in such a relatively short time. Kudos to the guys, and you. for keeping the music we love alive.
aka MusicLoverinLA |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2446
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 10:28 am: �� | ��� |
Nosey: I hereby sentence you as follows:
1. Removal of all of your Stylistics LPs, ESPECIALLY the Round 2 LP.
2. You are hereby banned from listening to ANY vintage Stylistics LP for a period, not less than two weeks & not more than one month.
3. Seeing as how you're employed in the educational system, this should bring back some sweet memories for you.... you are commanded to write 500 times "I WILL get sufficient sleep before ANY LOCAL Russell & The New Stylistics Show"!!!
That oughta learn you real good |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2450
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 1:55 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Florence,
Yes I did enjoy the show. I've been to a few other shows where some of the acts unfortunately were not up to par. That entire show was smoking & Russell & The New Stylistics were definitely a highlight. Knowing what I know, it felt good to hear that crowd showing Russell & the fellas so much love.
You don't have to thank me for writing the truth. So often, we hear the negative things, the head cases, the druggies & the fan abusers. It feels good to be able to say some positive words, about good & positive people for a change. I'm happy to have found out first hand that you all do the legacy proud. That made the whole night sweeter for me. I would have been so disappointed if any of you had been less than advertised. Forget the performing aspect of it, as PEOPLE, you were all as advertised & that should be stated for all to hear & see. From the wife of your drummer, to your drummer, right down to your musicians, everyone was kind & friendly.
What I appreciated most is that not once did any of you knock the other group, nor did you disparage them. There was no gloating & no sniping at them & that was cool. I respect that. And you are correct when you say that the band was excellent. I didn't mention any of them, as I either forgot, or didn't get all of their names & wanted to slight no one. Especially the Rock & Roll guitar player who sounded like he was Chuck Berry! Perhaps you, or Kenny can tell us their names here.
As I said earlier, send me your mailing info & I'll get a disc out to you this week. As I have about 25 minutes of the show on tape, I have thousands of frames to go through. I'm at the 4:30 mark & have about 100 pictures edited so far. So, it way take a little longer than that if you want pictures along with the video. The video is finished.
Again, thank you for your hospitality. It's a pleasure to give all of you your just due. I'm more than happy to be able to spread the word that Russell & The New Stylistics are nothing less than excellent
Here is another short montage of the fellas in action:
 
 
 
 
  |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2451
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 2:31 pm: �� | ��� |
Here are a few of Russell:
 
  |
Nosey (nosey)
5-Doyen
Username: nosey
Post Number: 277
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 152.163.100.74
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 9:15 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice, you always make me laugh... and that's a good thing. My happily separated husband got custody of all the albums. LOL! |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 64
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 9:53 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice,
The band is as follows:
Kenny Thompson - Mucsial Director & Lead Piano
Abdul Beatty - Guitar
Adrienne Garner - Keyboards
Lonnie Henson - Bass
Keith Williams - Drums
Rod Berry - Horns
Gary McKean - Horns
The group and band will have been together 2 years in November. The progress they have made and the dedication is outstanding. I love em'. |
Vonnie (vonnie)
5-Doyen
Username: vonnie
Post Number: 301
Registered: 3-2004
Posted From: 152.163.100.74
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 10:33 pm: �� | ��� |
Florence,
The group and band along with your Russell are the mix that is made in heaven. It was just wonderful listening to them perform. They are a winning combination and the camaraderie and chemistry can be felt in their sound. It was so great to hear real harmony and to see such a magical and sterling performance.
I urge everyone to try and catch these performers when they appear in your area, you will not be disappointed. These guys are slammin! |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 65
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Thursday, September 23, 2004 - 2:31 am: �� | ��� |
Thanks Vonnie |
Eli (phillysoulman)
6-Zenith
Username: phillysoulman
Post Number: 1612
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 66.199.17.78
| | Posted on Friday, September 24, 2004 - 1:31 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Flo,
Im so sorry that I missed that great show as I was and am still in tennessee.
I will be back this saturday and I look forward to hooking up with the guys soon.(after my surgery) |
1wicked (1wicked)
5-Doyen
Username: 1wicked
Post Number: 299
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.126.64.72
| | Posted on Friday, September 24, 2004 - 7:58 pm: �� | ��� |
Are there any (PUBLIC) Southern California (Los Angeles metro area) dates either booked or in the negotiation stages?? |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 36
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 4.238.255.210
| | Posted on Friday, September 24, 2004 - 9:04 pm: �� | ��� |
I hear LA ..SOON...WILL LET YOU KNOW |
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 66
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Friday, September 24, 2004 - 9:55 pm: �� | ��� |
Bobby,
Hope all is going well in Tennessee. You and Vonnie are always welcome to any of the shows. Just give me a holler when you want to come. Russell made the comment the other day that he thought the show at the Beacon was his best performance since he's come back. I was glad that serious fans like Vonnie, Juicefree and others were there to witness it. Hope all goes well with the surgery. Talk to you later. |
1wicked (1wicked)
5-Doyen
Username: 1wicked
Post Number: 300
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.126.64.72
| | Posted on Friday, September 24, 2004 - 11:10 pm: �� | ��� |
Piano Man...I tried you offline again recently. I must be typing in invisible fonts...(LOL) |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 37
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 4.239.204.76
| | Posted on Saturday, September 25, 2004 - 12:36 pm: �� | ��� |
email me at Kenny113@netzero.com |
Kevin Goins - KevGo (kevgo)
5-Doyen
Username: kevgo
Post Number: 200
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 64.33.205.32
| | Posted on Monday, September 27, 2004 - 5:37 am: �� | ��� |
It's great to hear and see Russell and the New Stylistics in action. Can't wait to see them if they head toward Chicago/Madison/Minneapolis.
I met Russell several years ago (1996) at the Westbury Music Fair (the Chi-lites and the Dramatics were also on the bill) and he was very friendly and personable.
BTW - Hey, Juice - the Dells are the same way, very personable and friendly.
Kevin Goins - KevGo |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2511
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, September 27, 2004 - 6:19 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Kev, what's up!
If you remember, I told you & Bobby that one of my goals is to meet The Dells. I always wanted to shake their hands, as I have a great respect for their history & music. If they're anything like Russell & his crew (and I'm sure that they are), I'll be very pleased. I don't know if you ever met Florence or Kenny, but when you do, you'll feel right at home. If you've met them, then you know what I mean. They don't treat you like a fan, they treat you like a friend!
Folks like them have made me feel hope for our music again! |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 38
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 216.148.246.70
| | Posted on Monday, September 27, 2004 - 6:51 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Kevin
Be in your area in Nov.Stay in touch with me...Hope to meet you...I hear that the Advertisement has started..Let me know if you hear anything..it will be at the ARIE CROWN THEATRE...NOV 5TH..I will confirm this later when it gets closer to it. |
fonic_zone (fonic_zone)
2-Debutant
Username: fonic_zone
Post Number: 19
Registered: 9-2004
Posted From: 205.188.116.138
| | Posted on Saturday, October 02, 2004 - 4:00 pm: �� | ��� |
Piano man this is Wil Hart,,Hey man what's up...been looking for you ...heard you are the band director and working with the mighty Russell...my main man...tell Russ, I send love and peace...waiting for that date ...we can do together on the road again...on the road again with the mighty Russell Thompkins and the New Stylistics with Piano Man my main man...give me a holla brothers... |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 41
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 4.239.204.240
| | Posted on Saturday, October 02, 2004 - 4:22 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Wil..I just left Russ and we were talking about you. He said he spoke to you. E-mail me at Kenny113@netzero.com. Lets see if we can put some dates together. Glad to hear you are back |
jrlo (jrlo)
5-Doyen
Username: jrlo
Post Number: 212
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.126.212.8
| | Posted on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 3:32 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice!!!
GREAT SHOTS!!!! Man!!! I would have loved to have hung with you at that concert! It must have been awesome!!
Now, when Tavares appears in your area...you WILL let me know right??? (smile) Gotta see Butch...
Florence,
Russell and the guys look great!! Just got my cd of Rockin Roll baby a few weeks ago..great memories!! Give Russell my best!
Jeannean |
MoMotown (momotown)
3-Pundit
Username: momotown
Post Number: 58
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 216.249.93.114
| | Posted on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 6:20 pm: �� | ��� |
Piano Man, how's it going? Just wanted to say hello to you guys. I'm looking forward to you guys returning to the L.A. area. I hope your next show here will be well promoted because no old or new Stylistics fan should miss it. Take care.
aka MusicLoverinLA |
piano-man (piano_man)
3-Pundit
Username: piano_man
Post Number: 43
Registered: 5-2004
Posted From: 4.238.139.188
| | Posted on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 7:48 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Musiclover
You know we have to hook-up if we come out there on the 27th of Nov>>>Get back to me!!!! |
MoMotown (momotown)
3-Pundit
Username: momotown
Post Number: 59
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 216.249.85.216
| | Posted on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 8:56 pm: �� | ��� |
Piano Man,
Will do. You guys take good care of yourselves in the meantime.
aka MusicLoverinLA |
1wicked (1wicked)
5-Doyen
Username: 1wicked
Post Number: 314
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.126.64.72
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 05, 2004 - 4:00 am: �� | ��� |
Russell...Mrs. FJT...Piano-Man:
Just wondering if either of you have heard the Tony ! Toni ! Tone' ! Stylistics "tribute" tune "Holy Smokes & Gee Whiz" from their "House of Soul" CD (on which every song is in the vein of a classic soul artist) ? It's a dead on arrangement & sounds very much like something the guys could have recorded during the Thom Bell days...and Rafael Saadiq sounds more like "The Man" than the guy who sings with his former compadres. |
don evans (don_e)
2-Debutant
Username: don_e
Post Number: 11
Registered: 7-2004
Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 06, 2004 - 7:08 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice,
Very nice pix, my brother. I appreciate your description of how friendly, kind, pure and professional Russell Thompkins Jr and the New Stylistics conducted themselves. I missed seeing them the last time they were in SoCal, but had the honor of seeing them perform and meeting them in February. During their performance, my wife, Phyllis, and I, and another couple seated next to us commented that we could actually feel a good spirit coming from the group. We are still buzzed from that unforgettable experience. Like you said, Russell really does appreciate and respect his fans. It's so very refreshing to know that Russell is as kind of a person as his voice is heavenly, and the New Stylistics are a beautiful compliment to his spirit. Piano Man, Jonathan, Raymond, James, and the rest of the band are real!
Looking forward to the day when Phyllis and I will have the pleasure of meeting Florence.
Again, Juice, thank you for sharing the pictures, and for your wonderful expession.
Don E |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2730
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 06, 2004 - 8:32 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Don,
Thank you for the appreciation. I'm just glad to be able to speak the truth. During that same show, I happened to meet an artist whom was a tad standoffish. I've long been a champion of this artist & I've always been for his success. I even spoke to a friend about the possibility of being booked for a few shows, as she books artists for shows here in N.Y. Piano Man & Flo can attest to that she indeed exists & that I'm not blowing smoke here. I have continually spoke in glowing terms of him & his (in my opinion) undeserved obscurity.
To my surprise & mild dismay, he was very cool & not the warmest person there. I was mildly disappointed, because everyone else that I met were extremely warm, from Russell & The New Stylistics, to William Hart & The Delfonics, to Billy Butler, to Ray, Goodman & Brown & Kevin Owens. The vibes were all good.He wasn't nasty, but certainly not as warm as he appeared to be, when I saw him on another show.
Now, I wasn't angry about it & the funny thing is that previously, he made overtures to my friend as regards being booked for a few shows. Now, he didn't know me from Adam, but it just goes to show you how even a little lack of cordiality can be potentially costly. Let's say that this young lady & I were very close. Let's say that she caught his act & decided that she was a bit undecided about him & asked my opinion about booking him or not. How do you think that the average person would answer her?
Even more surprising was his performance. His demeanor bordered on arrogance. I'm inclined to believe that his demeanor was based on something that perhaps occurred behind the scenes, or just a bad day. I would still champion his cause, as I feel that he deserves the attention & he has great talent. However, other people might not be as charitable. So, while mildly disappointed with him, I'm not mad at him. It just goes to show why it never hurts an artist to be kind. They never know the damage that they could be doing to themselves, financially & otherwise.
Russell & his entire crew on the other hand, were thoroughly professional & kind to their fans & that goes a LONNNNG way. They deserved every good word that I wrote. Not because they were kind to me, but because they were kind to EVERYONE.
Don, when you meet them, you are in for a treat & I'm confident that you will not be disappointed at all.
It's really nice to be able to speak nice things & even better when your idols prove to be worthy of compliments. |
don evans (don_e)
2-Debutant
Username: don_e
Post Number: 12
Registered: 7-2004
Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| | Posted on Saturday, October 09, 2004 - 3:22 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice,
So true and well said, my brother. Attitude and character are everything. I've been taught that talent can take you far, even to the top, but good character will keep you where talent won't.
But I'd just like to clarify this with you Juice...my wife, Phyllis and I HAVE had the honor of meeting Russell Thompkins, Jr. He took time talking and taking a few pictures with us. Russell is truly a class act and an excellent example to be followed. Jonathan and Piano Man treated us as if we were friends that hadn't seen each other in a while. James and Raymond were very kind warm to us.
I am not exaggerating when I say that Florence (though I haven't met her in person), Russell, Piano Man, and Jonathan, treated me and Phyllis as if we were the stars.
Juice, my friend, that is why your excellent articulation of this beautiful group blessed me so much! They don't change. They're the same wherever they're at because that "spirit of love" is in them.
God bless you,
Don E |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2792
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Saturday, October 09, 2004 - 5:25 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Don,
I didn't know that you had met them. Then you know that I'm not blowing smoke here. Flo's cut from the same cloth & it's really good to see some real life down to earth folks. It must be a Philly thing, as all of the entertainers whom I've met from there, from Bobby Eli, to William Hart, to Russell, Flo, Piano Man & the whole Stylistics crew, were plain cool.
Even the husbands & wives were cool. No star tripping, no I'm with Russell type of attitudes. Just friendly, down to earth people. If you can't get along with them, you simply can't get along with anyone.
As I said, with all of the horror stories that you hear about, it makes me glad to be able to say that all of our stars are not bad. I will always speak highly of Russell, Flo, Kenny & the entire crew. From my experiences, they merit nothing less than that & I wish for them all, nothing but success. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20)
6-Zenith
Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2823
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| | Posted on Monday, October 11, 2004 - 10:25 pm: �� | ��� |
JRLO,
Let's not start with that "Butch" thing again!!!!
|
Vonnie (vonnie)
5-Doyen
Username: vonnie
Post Number: 335
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 205.188.116.138
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 12, 2004 - 12:53 am: �� | ��� |
Don,
I have to second all that Juice has posted regarding Russell and the crew. They are genuine articles, no bull, no pretension, just pure talent and class. Florence my hometown girl completes the circle, you just have to love them. |
jrlo (jrlo)
5-Doyen
Username: jrlo
Post Number: 223
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 24.126.212.8
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 12, 2004 - 12:54 am: �� | ��� |
Juice....Butch is the man!!!
(My hubby told me the same thing!, he also says that Butch is old, fat still wears polyester and still has a fro..sound jealous to you??)
|
Florence Thompkins (fjt)
3-Pundit
Username: fjt
Post Number: 67
Registered: 6-2004
Posted From: 63.101.18.210
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 12, 2004 - 8:53 am: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice, Vonnie, Don,
Hope all of you are doing well. Thanks so much for the kinds words. We're just trying to keep it real. Russell has a good crew with him. It's nice to know that people have your back. That wasn't there for so many years. |
Nosey (nosey)
5-Doyen
Username: nosey
Post Number: 304
Registered: 4-2004
Posted From: 66.153.113.238
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 12, 2004 - 10:20 am: �� | ��� |
Juice! Watch it sucka! (In the voice of Benita Butrell (sp)) Don't say nothin' bout Butch Tavares! I loses it, when you say somethin' bout Butch! LOL!
JLO: Never read the Malletcatraz thread so I'm not sure but what Juice said about Butch does that qualify him for the mallet? |
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