50 Is On The Horizon

CLEVELAND - After a roller coaster ride of perversity, obscenities and endless controversy, Deante Young's cult reality show has reached its much ballyhooed conclusion.

At least, season 2 has anyway.

The shock-tinged web series, a Date with Deante is about to close up shop for the next several months, but not before it unveils its watershed 50th episode on Friday. Young announced weeks ago that the season finale would pay homage to his hero Michael Jackson's seminal music video, "Thriller." Today, a short preview trailer debuts and from the looks of it, the episode will be a very diverse and ambitious endeavor.

Entitled, "Deante Young's Thriller," episode 50 is said to follow an actual scripted storyline penned by Young himself. Dirty Truth Films remained tight lipped about further details of the short film.

In any case, enjoy the 55 second clip above.

HIV Was Blessing In Disguise For Magic Johnson

CLEVELAND - Earvin Johnson was the quintessential basketball player; dedicated, hard-working and mindlessly gifted. To his fans, he seemed to do everything right. But after a dozen incandescent seasons in the NBA, the legendary point guard was forced to retire with a deadly disease.

It may have saved his life.

Today marks the 18th anniversary of Johnson's stunning, sports world shattering announcement that he'd contracted HIV, the virus that causes the deadly AIDS disease. Because of this fact, he declared that he was retiring immediately from the Los Angeles Lakers, the team he piloted to five NBA championships during the 1980's. For the man long nicknamed "Magic," this was a disappearing act that no one was prepared for, nor wanted to see.

Standing at a podium at the famous Great Western Forum, a very somber Johnson broke the unbelievable news that was apparently born out of his careless promiscuity. The 1991-92 NBA season was barely a week old, and the Lakers were set to defend their Western conference title. They were defeated just five months earlier in the NBA Finals by the Chicago Bulls and were clearly one of the favorites to advance to the '92 Finals.

Until Johnson's announcement.

In the immediate aftermath of Magic's disclosure, the media frenzy reached a fever pitch. Discussions of the AIDS virus pervaded television and print media for weeks thereafter and Johnson was castigated for his brazen and irresponsible sex life. Still, others were sympathetic to the basketball hero's plight and the virtual certainty that he'd be dead within five years.

He stayed very much alive.

A special exception was made for Johnson's retired status and how it related to the 1992 NBA all-star game in Orlando. NBA commissioner David Stern allowed Magic's name to be on the ballot in fan voting for the "mid-season classic." In spite of a few protests of Johnson's participation, he not only played in the game, but dominated and authored several highlight plays. In the closing moments, he defended his buddy Isiah Thomas and supernova Michael Jordan one-on-one and "forced" them both to miss jumpers. Then, the iconic point guard drilled his third and final 3-pointer on the other end to punctuate a surprisingly sharp performance. He wound up with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists and of course, the game's MVP award as his West squad spanked the East, 153-113.

That summer, Johnson traveled with the U.S. men's basketball team to Barcelona, Spain to help them compete for an Olympic gold medal. That squad, famously dubbed "The Dream Team" had been selected in 1991, prior to his knowledge of his virus. Of course, the Dream Team dominated en route to the gold medal and Johnson began to turn his focus on more pressing matters than basketball.

He became a very visible and famous spokesman for AIDS awareness and founded the Magic Johnson Foundation, which mainly helps combat HIV. He has been the keynote speaker at countless conferences about the disease all over the world and helped influence legislation on seeking a cure.

Johnson briefly dabbled in pro basketball again in the mid-1990's. After aborting a comeback in the fall of 1992, he actually served as head coach of the Lakers for 16 games in the 1993-94 season which ended in a putrid, 5 wins, 11 losses. In January 1996, he returned to the court as a much heavier, slower 36-year old power forward for the final 32 games of the season. After L.A. got bounced easily from the '96 NBA playoffs, he re-retired for good.

During the past dozen years, Magic has become a shrewd and versatile business magnate. His endeavors have elevated his net worth into the hundreds of millions and, with included help from his gig as NBA analyst, maintained his contemporary visibility and relevance.

In the end, that very dark day in Los Angeles two decades ago ended up being the spark that fueled not only a mega empire, but also national education and government cooperation for this horrible disease called AIDS. Kudos to Johnson for turning a huge negative into an even more gigantic positive.

He remains a champion.

The Penultimate Brilliance

CLEVELAND - Shocking and hilarious. Naughty and audacious. Call it what you want, but Deante Young's obscene web series, a Date with Deante has given America something to talk about, laugh about and complain about.

And the fun is just about to end.

The 49th episode of the series debuted last night and became an instant hit. The clip, entitled "Unbreakable" features a decidedly vitriolic Deante as he defiantly taunts his critics and enemies by reaffirming his scathing brand of humor and its intent to exploit. He insists that he's unbreakable and immune from naysayers, doubters and anyone who opposes his unadulterated humor.

There's also an eclectic mix of interviews which predictably showcase Young as the master of irreverence and wit. All in all, a strong effort in a series of strong efforts for the man, who will release the landmark 50th episode on November 13, which will be the season finale.

It'll be breathtaking.

'National Michael Day' Returned My Heroes To Me

CLEVELAND - Whenever I become a fan of someone or something, that relationship lasts forever and becomes ultra-intense. Michael Jackson and Michael Jordan are both all-time treasures of mine, and after long hiatuses from their brilliant craft, they both returned to me 8 years ago today.

I called it, "National Michael Day."

It was October 30, 2001, just seven weeks after the horrific attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon that both of these legendary men returned to their public. In Jackson's case, he'd gone six years without releasing an album, and 10 years without releasing a complete album of new material. Dangerous, his 1991 opus was the last original work he'd released. 1995's HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I was a double disc set that featured an entire disc of his greatest hits. But on this day in 2001, his 10th solo album, Invincible hit stores. It received many negative reviews from critics, but it was a very good album in my opinion. Of course, many would call me biased, but this may help that perception; I felt that it was a bit uneven and loaded most of its best songs on the first half. I rarely even listened to the second half.

Jackson, at the time 43 crafted more soothing and sonically brilliant ballads on that album than anything he'd done since 1979's Off the Wall. He had an updated sound on the album, and sounded very confident of his still incredible abilities as a world-class musician. The record's lead single, "You Rock My World" had been my favorite track since it hit radio the previous month. To me at that time, it was just refreshing to have the reclusive icon back in the saddle after so many years away.

The same can be said about Jordan.

Basketball hero turned exalted deity, Jordan played the first non-Chicago Bull game of his NBA career on this night. After a masterpiece finish to his career in June 1998, Jordan retired seven months later. A year after that, he became President of Basketball Operations for the lowly and clueless Washington Wizards much to my bewilderment. Beginning in March 2001, tantalizing reports of his possible return to pro hoops began surfacing in the media. They were soon confirmed and on September 10, 2001, MJ made the official announcement of his utterly shocking decision to play for those same horrible Wizards. Needless to say, I was both delighted and disgusted that he'd willfully "taint" his luminous legacy, especially at a very ripe 38 years of age.

Jordan's Wizards opened the season that October 30th night in a matchup with the New York Knicks. Since the game was played a short distance from where the World Trade Center's destroyed remains still smoldered, Jordan visited Ground Zero and paid tribute to the thousands who lost their lives. He soon announced that he planned to donate his entire $1 million salary that he was to receive for playing the 2001-02 season to the WTC charity.

Many don't realize it, but Jordan was born in Brooklyn, NY.

In the game, Michael looked woefully out of sorts. Even though he hadn't played in a very long three and a half years, us fans expected his trademark aerial artistry to rear its beautiful head. It didn't. He scored just 19 points on 7-of-21 shooting, but his floor game was outstanding. He contributed 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals in 37 exhausting minutes. The talk of the night wound up being his miss of a three-pointer with 18 seconds left that could've led to a win. Instead, the Knicks rode Latrell Sprewell's 28 points to a 93-91 victory.

Even though Michael Jackson didn't returned to his accustomed heights with Invincible, it was still an incredible joy to have the man back on the radio with new material. And even though Michael Jordan was past his sizzling prime of basketball dominance, it was beautiful to watch him perform his occasional magic and have a vintage performance of unstoppable precision. Even when he was less than stellar and his team was suckish, Jordan was a marvel to witness. You could see the raging inferno of intensity and drive in his eyes.

"National Michael Day" may have been an unofficial holiday, but for me that day will forever represent pure genius and another chance to fall in love again.

Twice.

Jackson Film Showcases His Meticulous Genius

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson has long been a mindlessly gifted vocalist and a breathtakingly flawless dancer with much evidence to support those stunning gifts. What hasn't been seen is his meticulous creative process and relentless drive towards perfection.

Until now.

Jackson's new film, a hastily yet impressively crafted piece entitled, This Is It debuts in theaters today worldwide. The concert's choreographer, Kenny Ortega assembled the highly anticipated flick which I had the grand pleasure of screening last night armed with the realization that I might very well shed a tear or a few million. Thankfully, I didn't, but it was challenging not to at times.

In the film, Michael's uncompromised creativity and perfectionism are on full display. Though clearly performing at half-speed, his lilting voice often soars with an altitude similar to a hang glider over a canyon. His dancing is so intricate, precise and instinctive and at times seems to just "happen" with even the most mundane of his movements. He hits beautiful high notes, most fascinating to me is when he was rehearsing his Thriller-era hit "Human Nature" and seems to let the music flow through him, which triggers his legendary dance steps.

Michael's remarkable artistry and imagination shine through on several vignettes he had planned to show during the concerts. A particularly fascinating interlude was the short film he created to open "Smooth Criminal," a hit track from Jackson's 1987 Bad album. Footage of classic 1940's gangster films are interspersed with current footage of Michael, clad in a white fedora and suit and armed with a Tommy Gun.

Those images are reminiscent of his indelible music video of the same name.

Also very notable: a highly-stylized re-imagining of his seminal "Thriller" video with ghoulish and ominous imagery that was set to be a 3-D film to be shown during the shows. Also, a riled up run through of "Beat It" and a jaw dropping rehearsal of "Billie Jean" showcased Michael at his best. They were also great theater and seemed compelling enough to use as separate, updated music videos of those iconic Jackson classics.

It is nearly impossible to see Jackson as a frail 50-year old in the film as he's been so often depicted in the media. Indeed, the man is sharp, lucid and highly energetic. His charm is infectious and the camaraderie he had with his dancers and musicians was quite obvious. His attention to detail is astonishing and his leadership is astounding. He's politely demanding and endlessly creative. Given the epic stature of his life's work, it is easy to see how this creative process of his was necessary as well as constant.

Watching Michael in his element, completely unguarded and highly focused on perfecting his craft was a delicious treat for me as I'm sure it is for all of his fans. His pure genius, which shines through loud and clear in this film is absolutely humbling and inspiring and should serve as a reminder to the world just how much of a major force Jackson truly was. His collaborators on this massive project were all too thrilled and giddy at the chance to work with MJ, and had clearly established a strong connection with the international icon.

Of course, the footage in this film came from Michael's plan for a huge series of concerts in London this summer that would serve as his "comeback" after a 12-year hiatus from performing live. He rehearsed from April to June, with much of the footage being filmed in HD with high quality audio. Tragically and stunningly, he died on June 25 which was less than three weeks before he was to begin his concerts. That fact, along with the knowledge that we have of these awesome stage shows never coming to fruition is so frustrating. As wonderful as Michael is in the movie, we have to accept that his genius is no longer here which for me, is close to impossible.

Thankfully, the film avoids references to his death as well as the salacious and sordid details of his often controversial personal life. The man was a true great, and his historic career will forever be an indelible memory in our minds, especially because of this respectful and riveting documentation of the final weeks of the greatest entertainer in history.

I love him even more than ever now.

Promise And Uncertainty Surround James, Cavs

CLEVELAND - And here we are; five months after the Cleveland Cavaliers unceremoniously lost to the Orlando Magic in the 2009 Eastern Conference Finals. Now, a new NBA season is upon them, one that will quite possibly dictate the future of the franchise.

That's no overstatement.

LeBron James, the prodigiously gifted juggernaut of the Cavs enters his 7th pro season tonight as Cleveland opens the 2009-10 campaign against the rejuvenated Boston Celtics. James more than anyone will control the direction of this season for his team, though he is also the man with the most uncertainty. With new addition Shaquille O'Neal, the Cavs figure to be much better in the paint this season than in years past. Problem is, O'Neal will be a very worn 38 years old in March and is in his 18th season. He is still a major presence and great interior target for James to deliver the ball to, but his age and durability will without question enter into the equation at some point no matter how in-shape he might be.

O'Neal is only the biggest addition, but there are others. Jamario Moon and Anthony Parker joined the team in the offseason and will deepen the bench greatly. Though currently injured, former Celtic spark plug Leon Powe will also provide inside depth, though he isn't expected to play until February.

And then there's the tenuous situation with starting point guard Delonte West, who has had a very erratic and tumultuous offseason. West missed every game of the preseason and several practices and was arrested on weapons charges in the past several weeks. Just yesterday, his wife filed domestic abuse charges against him. It has also recently been disclosed that he suffers from bipolar disorder. Needless to say, his status remains up in the air.

Of course, it all comes back to LeBron, who will be inundated all season with questions about his 2010 free agency. In many ways, James' teammates, his coaching staff and Cavs management will all have their feet to the fire all season in hopes of winning their 1st NBA title and presumably entice their star pupil to stay put. Without knowing how O'Neal's aging body will hold up for an entire season and not knowing the outcome of the West debacle, this season begins with a ton of question marks. It's also anyone's guess as to how long it will take for the new additions to gel with everyone else.

But on the other hand, James is destined to be even better than he was last season, when he captured his first league MVP award. Clearly, he's either the best player in the league, the best talent in the league or all of the above. Expect him to continue his searing dominance and sheer force of will which will prove once again to be Cleveland's biggest asset when facing any team in the NBA. Also, O'Neal is still a major factor and a potential game changer in the paint who will only flourish playing alongside James.

Their most glaring weaknesses from last season have effectively been eradicated. They have more length, strength and post presence than before. Additionally, O'Neal's arrival enables Zydrunas Ilgauskas to play less minutes and remain fresher off the bench. Add in Anderson Varajeo and the improved J.J. Hickson and the Cavs have a very formidable frontline. Mo Williams and Daniel Gibson are sharpshooters from the guard position and Moon and Parker are solid swingmen that give the team more speed and versatility.

The bottom line is simple. The Cavs have many questions, but many more answers and could very well be the trophy holders in June.

Jordan's Pro Debut Disguised True Greatness

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan became an ethereal giant in the game of basketball. From glittering statistics, spectacular flourishes to the hoop and a mountain of awards, MJ was the most stunning mix of ambition and accomplishment in NBA history.

You would have never known it from his first game.

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Jordan's debut with the Chicago Bulls. On October 26, 1984, the 21-year old mega athlete played his first-ever regular season game, an ironic match-up with the Washington Bullets (he played two seasons for that franchise 17 years later). Playing in Chicago Stadium, he appeared a bit nervous, hyper and very competitive. Sporting the Bulls' home white uniform with red numbering and lettering, Michael looked every bit the sleek and high-octane athlete that he was, however the poise and polish of his game wasn't yet apparent.

Even his shoes were just basic white and red Nikes.

He finished with a poor shooting, 5-of-16 performance from the floor, though nailed 6-of-7 free throws for 16 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. With the exception of his shooting and scoring, his overall game was on the money, though it would only get better in the coming games.

And years.

The Bulls won, 109-93 which was the most important stat to the obsessed-with-winning Jordan. Even though the game offered tantalizing glimpses of his future brilliance, it concealed the true scope of what the man was destined to become. He became the best player in history with a colossal portfolio of legendary and heroic moments on the court. Given the incredible nature of his legend, it's understandable that it wasn't obvious at such an early date.

When Jordan was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame last month, he repeatedly spoke of how every naysayer and doubter real or perceived fueled his relentless will and drive. It was an amazing and riveting speech that left some angered, but left others like myself in deeper admiration for the man and all of his achievements. That first game wasn't step one of his evolution.

But it was America's first glimpse of what became a love affair with an indelible genius.

If They Say, 'Why, Why?'

CLEVELAND - During the controversial run of Deante Young's game-changing web series a Date with Deante, the maven of shock entertainment has always taken his viewers on a wild odyssey of human examination. That trend continues in the newest installment.

Call it human nature.

That's the title of the brand new, 48th installment of the series; named after the hit 1983 Michael Jackson single "Human Nature." In this clip, Young converses with Gary and Laura, a homeless couple until just recently. They reveal what life is like living on the cold streets and being assaulted early and often. They also give their viewpoints on the N-word.

Next up is Heidi, a 29-year old Jezebel with an obvious affinity for drugs. Her segment contains arguably the most stunning moment of the show. Check it out to see all the unadulterated craziness in full bloom.

It's human nature.

Seeing Michael Jackson In Concert: A True Thrill

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson tragically never got to perform his 2009 "comeback" concerts in London's O2 Arena. But in 1984, the legendary entertainer toured the United States with his brothers and when they traveled to Cleveland, I was there to witness the master in person.

Talk about the thrill of a lifetime.

It was 25 years ago today that "The Victory Tour" wrapped up its two night stint in Cleveland's Municipal Stadium. It was a highly ambitious undertaking featuring all six Jackson brothers but of course, Michael was front and center. At the time, the ticket prices were the subject of much controversy and criticism as they were a steep-for-1984 $30 a piece. What's more, they had to be purchased in quantities of four which was unreal. Many folks paid the outlandish price largely because at the time, Michael was at the height of his mega-popularity. Indeed, the historic Thriller album and its iconic spawn of music videos were still riding a huge wave of unbridled hysteria worldwide. Jackson had also won a truckload of awards for that steamrolling era of brilliance and seeing him live in concert in the second half of '84 was utter bliss.

Even though I was just 7 years old, I remember many aspects of Michael in concert. I remember how electric he was on stage, especially singing the frenetically paced "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin." I remember some of his trademark acts of showmanship such as pulling his fedora down over his eyes as the bassline of "Billie Jean" kicked in, then tossing the hat into the audience for people to fight and faint over. I remember laser-like theatrics and his famous Jheri-curled hair shaking as he popped his head, kicked his leg and pointed his finger.

The man was always indelible.

I had the presence of mind to bring a pair of binoculars to the stadium with me to get a better view of Michael (I'm talking as though his brothers didn't exist). Unfortunately, my nearly 16 year old cousin snatched my binoculars from me to allow a pretty girl to use them in hopes of impressing her with his "thoughtfulness."

What a creep.

During the spring and summer of 1984, Pepsi issued limited-edition cans of their popular soda adorned with all six brothers' signature. I collected them heavily, and they became coveted artifacts from that tour. My grandfather became my hero (temporarily) as the tour approached. My aunt Trina won tickets to the concert which sent her into a frenzy, and she was a little unsure whom to give the extra tickets to. My grandfather, in his trademark authoritative voice demanded that I be given one of the tickets. "You know how that boy feel about Michael Jackson," he yelled.

I was in.

That was such a long time in the past, half Michael's life ago and over 78% of my life (so far) ago. In any event, I will always treasure that magical, brisk Autumn night a quarter century ago. I've said it many times and I'll say it again:

I love Michael Joseph Jackson. Always and forever.

Young's 50th Episode Inspired By 'Thriller' Video

CLEVELAND - Deante Young's controversial web series has raised eyebrows and angered many national organizations during its 47 episodes. Now, his production company April Fool's Entertainment has revealed details about his upcoming 5oth episode, a spectacular homage to Michael Jackson.

"Mr. Young's 50th episode will debut on Friday, November 13, 2009. It is entitled, "Thriller" and will be a departure from the usual a Date with Deante episodic format," says Keith Mason of Dirty Truth Films, the film division of April Fool's Entertainment. "In the movie-style production, Young will pay a final, grand tribute to Michael Jackson, whom he has loved and admired since he was a toddler. This short film will also serve as the season finale of the show."

According to an anonymous source at Dirty Truth Films, filming of the episode is scheduled for next week and will include "many riffs" on Jackson's historic "Thriller" video, which debuted 26 years ago on MTV.

Young's talk-show, a Date with Deante is at the tail end of its second season. It aired 20 episodes in the 1st season, and planned to air another 30 for the current season. Its first 13 episodes of season 2 aired between March 1 and June 21, then unspeakable tragedy rocked Young's world. On June 25, Jackson, his lifelong idol and hero suddenly and shockingly passed away. Young was sent reeling for awhile, but regrouped and filmed a tribute episode for Jackson. After that, he dedicated the remaining 16 episodes to Michael and even named each one after a Jackson song. So far, 27 episodes have aired this season with three remaining.

Episode 50, a landmark edition of the series that America loves to hate will be a final, incredible dedication to the man whom Young calls the greatest entertainer in history.

Winslow And Hitler?

CLEVELAND - Life can get pretty wild and outrageous on a Date with Deante, but even though the unexpected is always expected, it can still sometimes be highly unexpected.

Make sense?

Today, Dirty Truth Films released the 47th episode of the bawdy web series entitled, "Black Or White" and there seems to be a couple curious elements in the clip. First off, a middle-aged black woman converses with the sharp tongued Young and she bears a strong resemblance to Harriet Winslow from TV's Family Matters.

Could it really be her?

The other guest on the show, a young white woman named Josephine claims to be the daughter of infamous former German dictator Adolf Hitler. While Hitler died in 1945, some 45 years prior to her birth, she could very well be his child by way of his frozen sperm being injected into her mother.

It's possible.

In any event, the latest installment is yet another exciting and wild ride through one of the seminal creators of our time.

Check it out!

Tyson, Once Vicious, Now Humble And Wise

CLEVELAND - Mike Tyson was once a cocky and malicious prizefighter who dominated the heavyweight segment of professional boxing. Nowadays, he is a grateful and contrite father and husband with a keen sense of wisdom that eluded him in his prime.

Who would have ever thought that possible?

Tyson, 43 appeared on Oprah Winfrey's venerable talk show yesterday and showed a side of himself that the world has never seen in the 23 years since he became the youngest heavyweight champion in history. Speaking candidly and often wistfully to Winfrey, the iconic Tyson said he grew up in an abusive household and touched on a wide range of topics, including his world renowned and often controversial fighting career and his personal life, past and present.

Recounting his amateur years, Tyson grew very emotional while discussing Cus D'Amato, his mentor and former trainer who died in 1985. According to Tyson, D'Amato indoctrinated him with the idea that Muhammad Ali is the only unstoppable man in boxing history. Tyson bought into that opinion and, from age 12 to 19 had already been studying and researching all the great fighters from the 1890's up until the 1980's.

He also revealed that he was an overweight child and as a result, had an inferiority complex. Since then, he says he "won't back down from a fight or start one."

Oprah delved into Tyson's acclaimed boxing career and extracted very interesting information about his fighting mentality during his prime of the late 1980's and early 1990's. Tyson said he was consumed with fear before every fight, but once he entered the ring, the fear went away. This is fascinating to me largely because he was known then as "Iron Mike," the baddest man on the planet, yet he had certain insecurities within himself that he never allowed to surface publicly.

The former champ discussed his tempestuous marriage to actress Robin Givens, whom he wed in 1988 but divorced a year later. In between, in September 1988, the couple sat for a famous interview with Barbara Walters during which Givens did nearly all of the talking. Tyson, just 22 years old at the time sat stoically and responded to almost nothing she said to Walters. He told Winfrey yesterday that he didn't know why he didn't [refute] anything Givens said.

It was during that 1988 interview that Givens famously labeled Tyson "manic depressive" and said he was emotionally abusive. Tyson told Oprah that he wanted to "sock her" after hearing Givens' words to Walters. When Oprah pressed him about his alleged abuse, Tyson said it was a mutual thing, and that Givens wasn't an easy push over. He went on to say that he "felt a sense of abandonment" after their acrimonious divorce but can't remember if they've spoken since then because it was "so long ago."

Tyson also revealed a narcissistic side to himself. During the height of his popularity, he would think to himself: 'how dare they even wanna challenge me?' while on his way to the ring for a fight. He said he wanted to be "seen like a peacock" and felt that "nobody could do [what he did] better." Apparently, he bought into the massive hype and hysteria that he received and began thinking of himself as a "god."

That overconfidence and hubris may have birthed his decline.

Tyson, completely unassailable in his sport during his first four years as a pro, shockingly lost to heavy underdog Buster Douglas in Tokyo in February 1990. His perfect, 37-0 record was forever blemished and though stunning, it was seen as a fluke at the time. Indeed, the 24-year old tiger of toughness got back on track and won his next four bouts until his next stumbling block. In the summer of 1991, Tyson was charged with raping Desiree Washington, who had been named "Miss Black Rhode Island." In another stunning February moment, he was convicted in 1992 of the alleged crime and sent to prison.

Tyson suffered through one of the most defiant periods of his life during his incarceration. He said that prison is a "place with no boundaries" and revealed that he'd lost his faith in God. "Even though you have restrictions, you lose moral fiber," he told Winfrey.

His release in March 1995 was met with much publicity and anticipation as was his comeback fight in August. Tyson easily dismantled his first four opponents after his prison stint, earning the WBA heavyweight title on September 7, 1996, the night that rap star Tupac Shakur was fatally shot after attending the fight. Adversity struck again when Tyson met Evander Holyfield, a fight that had been heavily anticipated for years. Tyson stunningly lost that match as well as their June 1997 rematch which became infamous when Holyfield was twice bitten on the ears by a vicious Tyson.

Tyson apologized shortly thereafter to Holyfield, but admitted to Oprah yesterday that it "wasn't sincere" and that he never felt guilty about it until now. He also revealed that he was mad that Holyfield was "such a great fighter" and would apologize sincerely to him now if he ever saw Holyfield.

Tyson didn't fight again until two years later, but for the rest of his career, his fights became mindless sideshows plagued by mishaps and unprofessionalism. He lost three of his final four contests and unceremoniously retired after a putrid showing against Kevin McBride in 2005.

These days, the Tyson of yesteryear is virtually non-existent. The well-documented vitriolic arrogance of his past has been replaced with calm reflection and insatiable happiness in his present. He married his wife Kiki back in June and is the father of several children. Though he has a nine month-old daughter, he is haunted by the death of his daughter Exodus earlier this year. He got very choked up while discussing her death from a "freak accident" and is adamant about not wanting to know the "truth" about how she died.

Very sad watching that.

One of the more riveting moments of the interview was when Tyson talked about his out-of-control and tremendously lavish spending habits of his heyday. He earned around $400 million in his career, and stunningly squandered it all on a preposterous life of raging excess. "I felt like I had to either live on top of the world, or the bottom of the ocean," he declared. He also said he's never been faithful to any woman until now and used to be a shameless drug abuser who would take drug dealers' money and then taunt them about it. Oprah told him that he was lucky to be alive after pulling stunts like those and he agreed, then said he feels "so embarrassed" for his decades of destructive and irresponsible behavior.

Tyson says that nowadays, the "only things that matter to [him] is [his babies]."

Tyson's wife Kiki disclosed that she's known him since she was 15. Oprah asked her if she's at all leery or bothered by Tyson's infamous and masochistic past. Mrs. Tyson said that his "wild days" were before her and that she evaluates him based on how he treats her. She claims that all she sees is a lighthearted, great father. It was funny to watch Oprah go after her a little as she asked Kiki if she's in denial, to which the young woman denied.

Earlier this year, a new documentary surfaced of the legendary fighter's life called Tyson. In it, the former champ is very reflective and more sedate that we've ever seen him publicly, until yesterday that is. Oprah said that, while watching the film, she saw a "human being" as opposed to the barbaric animal that he's been portrayed in the media as for over two decades. "I was moved by Mike saying, 'I just want a better life' [in the flick]."

Me personally, I was very struck by Tyson's humility and the wisdom he has gleaned as a result of his experiences. He's a much better man than he ever was before and the beauty of it is, he's allowed his mistakes to empower and improve him.

That makes him a champion all over again.

Jackson's Voice Soars On Tepid New Single

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson's formidable prowess and colossal brilliance on the microphone was never a question during his lifetime. Now that he's gone, his iconic voice still radiates more power and energy than a Ferrari engine.

I'm not exaggerating.

Jackson, who tragically died during the first week of summer recorded the song, "This Is It" 18 years ago while crafting his album Dangerous. The song never made it to the album and hasn't ever been released to the public.

Until today.

The track is about the bittersweet ending of a relationship. It just happens to carry the same title as the comeback concerts in London that Michael had planned for the second half of this year and the first quarter of next. As it stands now, the song will be featured in the upcoming documentary film of the legendary performer's final rehearsals for those doomed concerts.

As for the track itself, Michael's scintillating voice achieves high altitude easily and with the aide of his brothers' background vocals, it forms a decent ballad. Problem is, the reason Jackson decided not to release this song two decades ago when he recorded it is almost instantly apparent. It doesn't sparkle and sizzle the way so many of Michael's recordings do and though his voice is very crisp and sharp, the overall effort feels limp.

But it's still Michael Jackson singing, and that's always a treat.

Obama's 'Nobel' Victory Stunning And Deserved

CLEVELAND - President Barack Obama has been awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize, much to his surprise as well as the astonishment of politicians, media and observers all over the world.

Even still, he deserves it.

Obama's victory, announced early this morning, was so unexpected by everyone (including the White House) largely because he hadn't been mentioned as a front-runner for the prestigious award. He also assumed office only nine months ago, a mere 12 days before the Nobel nominees were postmarked. He is just the third U.S. president in history to win the award, and the first sitting president to earn it in 90 years.

To clarify his selection, the Norwegian Nobel Committee said essentially that Obama deserves the accolade "for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."

In a terse press conference in the White House Rose Garden this morning, Obama said he was "surprised and deeply humbled" to win the incredible honor and will "accept this award as a call to action."

Many people feel as though Obama hasn't done anything to merit his victory. He's been consistently criticized for not living up to his lofty campaign promises on issues such as the war in Afghanistan, health care and the floundering economy. Even his staunch supporters in the gay community have recently expressed disdain and frustration with him over his slow-to-develop enacting of legislation that would grant [gays] more civil rights than they currently have.

I feel as though Obama deserves the award strictly on his values and ethos of bringing peace and harmony, both racial and otherwise to all countries. He may not be the perfect choice, but then again his very status as the first ever African-American U.S. president speaks to how transformative a figure he is. He's a unifying force and regardless of his accomplishments thus far in the office of the presidency, he's a seminal figure already in race and peace relations worldwide.

Congratulations, Mr. President and may we continue to benefit from your influence of civility and equality.

What If Jordan Didn't Retire In 1993?

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their 3rd straight NBA championship by averaging a record 41 points per game in the 1993 NBA Finals. Four months later, he was retired.

My oh my. What could have been?

Today marks the 16th anniversary of Jordan's shocking decision. He turned the basketball world upside down by stepping away from the game that turned him into a global icon worth hundreds of millions of dollars. What's more, he did it at just thirty years of age and was still the most dominant player in the league.

The Bulls entered the 1993-94 season a bit shell shocked. Training camp commenced a day after MJ's announcement and new addition Toni Kukoc shed tears at the reality before him; no playing beside his hero whom he idolized for years in his native Croatia. Jordan may have had a very successful season in '92-'93, but the summer was horrific. His father James was murdered while he slept on the side of a road. Many speculated that this event took the joy out of playing ball for Michael and led to his early retirement. During the season, the Bulls fought valiantly to maintain their dominance over the league, minus the most seminal player in the game's history.

They nearly pulled it off.

All-Star Scottie Pippen stepped up to a higher level and led the defending champs on both offense and defense. Kukoc was surprisingly sharp in the clutch, winning several games for the team at the buzzer and Horace Grant had his best season; 15 points and 11 rebounds per game. Add to all that the precision marksmanship of B.J. Armstrong and Steve Kerr and you have the makings of an even better team than the one that won the title in '93.

If Jordan had been a part of it, that is.

MJ meanwhile, was busy taking up minor league baseball. With the roster that Chicago had, they were able to summon a remarkable resolve and turn out a very fine regular season, finishing at 55-27, just two games behind their previous season's effort. They swept the Cavs in round one, then lost a slugfest to the Knicks in 7 games. The Knicks went on to win a classic series over the Pacers, which featured a classic Reggie Miller performance in Game 5, then met the Rockets in the '94 Finals.

Thanks largely to an all-world Hakeem Olajuwon, the Rockets squeaked past the Knicks in 7 games to capture the NBA title. The Rockets were a very balanced squad, boasting an awesome inside-out game with Olajuwon and Otis Thorpe in the paint and a litany of shooters around them such as Vernon Maxwell, Kenny Smith, Robert Horry and rookie Sam Cassell.

Jordan had been on such a roll through the first few seasons of the 1990's that there's no doubt he would have continued his stunning brilliance in '93-'94 had he not retired. Olajuwon won his first ever MVP award, but MJ would have been just 31 that season and the odds on favorite to win his 4th MVP and 8th scoring title. He was still young and brazen enough to do all the things he'd always done, even though he later opined that he may not have had the correct motivation.

Malarkey.

Even if Jordan would've been worn out from two years of nearly non-stop basketball (including the '92 Olympics), he would have manufactured motivation any way he could. Plug Michael into the '94 Bulls and worst case scenario, Kukoc doesn't flourish as much offensively and Pippen doesn't evolve as much as he did. Even in that scenario, both of those players were still mega-talented and would have still been outstanding. Pippen was a superstar before MJ left, and Kukoc may have been even better with Michael. Overall, they would have been even better as a team because they had the same talent but much of it had improved, plus they added the 6'11" multi-faceted Kukoc to the mix.

Imagine how driven Jordan would have been to win a 4th title in a row!

The Bulls barely lost to New York in the playoffs without Jordan, so they definitely would have beat them with him. Regarding the Pacers, Miller became Mr. Crunchtime in that series. MJ wouldn't have allowed that, not just because of his skill...but his pride would have eaten Reggie alive. Of course, this is all assuming that the Bulls would have met the same teams in the playoffs had Jordan stayed, which is highly unlikely. More to the reality, they would have had a higher seed and still pushed aside any team.

Let's not forget; they were the three-time defending champs!

In the Finals, the Rockets would have been problematic. Olajuwon was totally unguardable that season, but the Bulls always handled those dilemmas by giving the superstar big men they faced different looks on defense. Rotating several big bodies on Hakeem and playing him straight up would have given him free reign to dominate the interior, but it would have greatly compromised their potent outside attack. MJ and Pippen were lockdown defenders and would have minimized their shooters like they so often did to many teams.

I believe Chicago would have won in six or seven games over the Rockets.

Of course, Jordan really did return at the tail end of the following season, 1994-95 but was very out of sync and rusty to say the least. There was very little chemistry on the team and they had begun to be affected by a very mediocre showing in their first 65 games, going just 34-31. By now, the class of the East was the upstart Orlando Magic. The way that the season ended for the Bulls was a six game loss to the Magic in the semifinals. The biggest problem for Chicago in that series wasn't their lack of rebounding (Grant defected to Orlando over the summer of '94), it was Michael's inability to finish on his drives to the hoop. Incorrect timing and a very flat jumper weren't indicative of lost skill, but rather uncoordinated muscle reaction.

That happens when a finely tuned athlete like Michael Jordan doesn't play pro basketball for a year and a half.

The Magic went on to face defending champion Houston in the '95 Finals and were swept. Olajuwon, at age 32 masterfully dominated the 23-year old Shaq O'Neal and won his 2nd straight Finals MVP. The Rockets had acquired Clyde Drexler at mid-season, but somehow weren't as sharp as they were the previous season. Their postseason success was predicated more on heart and stubborn resolve than anything. If the Bulls would have faced the Rockets of 1995 with a full-seasoned MJ, it would have been a meeting of heart and soul versus heart and soul.

With a full speed MJ, the Bulls win that matchup everytime.

The Bulls trounced Orlando the following season, 1995-96 with Dennis Rodman in tow and a re-precisioned Jordan. They swept them emphatically in the '96 East Finals, and their key to success was playing O'Neal straight up and bottling up their shooters. With O'Neal and superstar Penny Hardaway scoring at will, the Magic figured to be well served but they weren't. That's because shooters like Nick Anderson and Dennis Scott were marginalized just as I mentioned earlier. Of course, Rodman was a major factor off the glass but whatever the case was, the Magic had no chance.

Chicago marched to an historic 72-10 season and captured their 4th title. MJ earned all of the usual accolades and added another iconic level to his legend. At the end of the day, the trifecta of titles that the Bulls won from 1996 to 1998 were just three of the five that they would've won.

If only Michael would've stayed put in October 1993.

Letterman Deserves Our Understanding

CLEVELAND - David Letterman had consensual sex with several females on his The Late Show staff over time while engaged to the woman who became his wife. This fact became the genesis of a blackmail scheme authored by a vengeful CBS News producer to extract $2 million from the comic.

Wow.

I'm not saying that Letterman is an innocent and pure victim that deserves endless streams of our sympathy. I'm also not suggesting that it was acceptable to cheat on his girlfriend because she was not yet his wife. But in the five days since his stunning and dramatic revelation of this sordid tale, the media and general public have alternately vilified and defended Letterman for several things and inspired national discussions about the acceptability of sex in the workplace.

Robert "Joe" Halderman, a CBS producer on the show 48 Hours, is the man that threatened to go public with Letterman's sexual escapades in the form of a proposed screenplay which was to highlight the talk-show host's sexual affairs if Letterman didn't pay up. He was soon arrested for extortion and released on bail.

I know we live in a very hypocritical world where everyone acts as though they are perfect. Letterman certainly isn't, as this is only the latest in a stream of gaffes that the 62-year old celebrity has gotten himself involved with. He apologized to his staff and particularly his wife on last night's telecast of his show and seemed sincere and contrite while mastering the fine act of self-deprecation, one of his trademarks.

We need to understand that Letterman didn't sexually assault anyone, nor did he commit adultery. He did cheat on his long-term girlfriend and may have benefited from his position of power to attract young women who wanted to move up the ranks in the entertainment industry. He hasn't been accused of abusing his high rank for sexual favors and he truly seems to regret the hurt he's caused to his colleagues and wife. Taking all these facts together, Letterman shouldn't be repudiated or castigated. He's a human being and as such, he's susceptible to making mistakes and making bad judgments. And let's not forget, Letterman is the one that had the crime committed against him by Halderman. Crazy as it seems, he is a victim.

At least, let's hear all the facts before we stone the man.

Simpson's Lucky Day Later Became His Worst

CLEVELAND - O.J. Simpson was once the luckiest man on Earth. With overwhelming evidence suggesting he murdered two people, he was stunning acquitted of all charges 14 years ago today. Alas, the universe shifted and he was sent to prison on the same day, 13 years later on different charges.

Karma or coincidence? Who knows?

Simpson, once a revered pro athlete and successful businessman became persona non grata in most of the U.S. following the stabbing deaths of his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman on June 12, 1994. Based on an agglomeration of evidence pointing directly at him, his alleged guilt in the heinous crimes seemed highly apparent. Lengthy court proceedings ensued, including an historic, high-profile criminal trial that lasted nearly nine months and culminated in a completely unexpected (and very divisive) "not guilty" verdict on October 3, 1995.

America's reaction was largely divided along racial lines. Blacks celebrated and Whites were infuriated. It became a popular opinion that Simpson literally got away with murder, and plagued him in the coming years. He was found liable for the two deaths in an early 1997 civil trial, but publicly declared that he'd never pay the judgement which totaled close to USD $34 million.

Simpson's lack of contrition and carefree lifestyle heavily contributed to the already searing anger and frustration of Fred Goldman, father of murder victim Ron. The elder Goldman became determined to legally pursue O.J. at all costs to force him to pay the judgement. He successfully won the rights to Simpson's planned 2006 book, If I Did It, which detailed his life with Nicole and included a very controversial, hypothetical account of the infamous murders. The Goldman family halted its release, then made a few subtle alterations while keeping Simpson's own words in tact. They modified the title to, If I Did It: Confessions of the Killer.

The book was released in September 2007, just days after Simpson got involved in a convoluted kidnapping and armed-robbery caper in Las Vegas. Apparently, O.J. sought to reclaim "stolen" memorabilia that was once his by using force. The kidnapping charges were the most severe and ultimately led to a 2008 trial of Simpson and his co-defendant.

On October 3, 2008, O.J. was found guilty of all charges.

The incredible irony of the guilty verdict being issued on the 13th anniversary of his legendary '95 "not guilty" verdict was not lost on anyone. Many felt that O.J. finally got what he had coming to him through karmic intervention. Others felt that he was unfairly convicted, and was simply being forced to pay for what many consider to be his transgressions back in 1994.

Two months after the verdict, Simpson was sentenced to nine to thirty-three years in prison. Who knew that holding hostages at gunpoint for stealing one's "former" belongings could result in so much prison time?

I just wish that O.J. would have learned his lesson after being on trial for such serious crimes back in 1995. The fact that he was acquitted in spite of such damning evidence should have made him live a saintly, humble and anonymous life, instead of a shameless, unapologetic and hedonistic one.

O.J. didn't learn anything from his experiences. But I sure learned a lot.

Double Returns From Jail

CLEVELAND - In a sprawling, yet riveting edition of a Date with Deante, the raunchy and hilarious host converses with iconic bum Tony Train Wreck, and freak nasty Alicia; both of whom make memorable returns from the big house.

And it's great theater.

Deante Young's racy and controversial web series debuts its 46th episode today, and at nearly 28 minutes in length, it is more than twice the duration of the average season 2 episode. Even still, he delivers an amazing installment of comedy, racism, tension and sex.

As usual, he knows no boundaries.

The last time Tony Train Wreck had been seen was in the 41st episode when he, in a drunken stupor was soaked with a hose by a group of guys then later arrested by cops. Alicia hadn't been seen since a very brief appearance in the 43rd episode, during the filming she was arrested on a warrant. Both she and Tony Train Wreck have been pivotal cornerstones of season 2 and with their performances in this clip, they are destined to go down as two of the most indelible personalities in the show's history.

Check out "Don't Stop Til' You Get Enough" and appreciate the brilliance of its personality.

Polanski Case Should Remain A Dead Issue

CLEVELAND - Roman Polanski, creator of some of the greatest films of the past 40 years endured unspeakable tragedy courtesy of Charles Manson and his disciples. He himself was neither perfect nor an angel and his own ancient transgressions have finally come back to bite him.

And unrightfully so.

Polanski, 76 has long been a critically acclaimed director and screenwriter for several classic works including Rosemary's Baby and Chinatown. His successful life hit a roadblock in 1969 when his wife Sharon Tate, who was two weeks from giving birth to his child, was savagely murdered by The Manson Family. That incident sent Polanski reeling for the next several years.

His life took another turn for the worst when he became an infamous figure in 1977. That's when he, by his own admission, had "unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor" after plying her with champagne and drugs. His previously revered body of work suddenly begun being viewed with an asterisk, especially since the disgraced Polanski fled the United States to avoid a possible prison sentence. He ended up in France and since 1978, has been a fugitive from justice in the U.S.

He was caught two days ago, after running for 31 years.

The irony in Polanski's highly delayed arrest is that he was en route to Switzerland to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award when he was apprehended at a Zurich airport. For the time being, the disgraced filmmaker is in custody pending a request by U.S. officials to be extradited back to this country. He has avoided such an occurrence since the 1970's by staying away from countries with extradition treaties to America, but this time it seemed as though fate intervened.

Polanski plans to fight the courts on this historic matter.

I totally understand anyone that feels that Polanski should pay for his misdeeds, no matter how far in the past they are. I'd probably feel the same way if it weren't for the victim in the case, Samantha Geimer. Now a 45-year old mother of three children, Geimer has recently asked that Polanski be forgiven. She's also stated that everytime anything comes up about the case in the media, it disrupts her current life with her family. She maintains that the incident, though "scary" was more than 30 years ago and should be left in the past because she feels that he's paid for what he did.

If the victim herself wants to move forward and just let Polanski be, then who are we to say that justice still needs to be served? The man committed a heinous and despicable act for sure, but arresting a man in his seventies for something that he did over three decades ago one time won't actually solve anything. Hard as it may be for many to accept, Polanski has actually lived all these years in a different kind of self-imposed prison. Even though he continued to make films, he was limited to shooting them overseas and was always unable to come to the U.S. to receive accolades for some of his work, such as 2002's The Pianist, which won Polanski a Best Director award.

No matter how this turns out, Polanski will always have God to answer to in the end.

Bryant's Great Decade Pales Next To Jordan's

CLEVELAND - Kobe Bryant will report to training camp this coming week for what will be his 14th NBA season. This past week, the Sporting News voted him the NBA player of the decade.

Interesting choice.

Bryant, 31 is a legendary hoopster. What he has done in the NBA for the L.A. Lakers has been stunning, especially since he came directly from high school in 1996 without the benefit of college and averaged just 7 points per game in his rookie season. Now, he is arguably the best in the game and has compiled a glittering resume that has included 4 NBA championships.

But I'm not so sure he was the preeminent player of the 2000's.

First off, Kobe bested former teammate Shaquille O'Neal and San Antonio's Tim Duncan for the honor and initially, I felt that his selection was well merited. However, upon closer inspection, I realized that the choice of Bryant was anything but a forgone conclusion once his entire decade is taken into consideration. First off, in the five seasons from 2000 to 2004, no one regarded him as being the best in the league. That's because O'Neal and Duncan were the big-time leaders of the NBA; Shaq had dominated the three NBA titles that the Lakers won from '00 to '02 and Duncan led the Spurs to the dethroning of L.A. in '03 en route to another San Antonio championship (they won their first in the abbreviated 1999 season).

During that first half of the decade, the Lakers won three titles, with Bryant as the secondary star and O'Neal in his prime of imposing, physical dominance. True, Kobe was always the harder, more tenacious worker, but O'Neal was still the biggest reason L.A. won. The two seasons that the Lakers didn't win, 2003 and 2004 were seen as evidence of Bryant's defiance and notoriously selfish style of play. Indeed, he grew more petulant and insolent as his prodigious offensive talents blossomed further. For the first time in his career, he averaged more shot attempts and points than Shaq; 30.0 ppg in '03, thanks largely to a 13-game tear in mid-season in which he routinely dropped 40 or more points several times. At the time, O'Neal was still a prime force and should have still been the focal point of the offense.

In 2004, his frequent ill-advised shots and go-it-alone mentality cost the revamped Lakers in the Finals and though heavily favored, they lost to the Pistons. Trust me, if anyone had asked who the top player of the first five years of the 2000's was, Bryant would have been on few, if any lists as the number one. It's not that he wasn't awesome, because he was brilliant. But O'Neal and Duncan were the cornerstones and impact players of these years. Kobe was simply the best of the rest; better than Iverson, McGrady, Carter, Pierce and the like.

The second half of the decade was even less impressive for Kobe. During the five seasons since the '04-'05 season, the Lakers lost in the 1st round of the playoffs twice to Phoenix ('06 and '07), lost to the Celtics in the Finals once ('08) and missed the postseason altogether in '05. It was only during the final season of the decade (last season) that they finally won an NBA title, the first one minus O'Neal, who'd left L.A. after the '04 Finals loss. One thing did increase for Kobe during the last half of the decade; his scoring exploits. The '05-'06 season was his playground. In December 2005, he scored an unreal 62 points in just three quarters in a game vs Dallas. In January 2006, he knocked in an historic 81 points against Toronto. By season's end, he'd amassed a career high 35.4 ppg average, the highest in the NBA in nearly 20 years.

But again, the Lakers lost in round one of the playoffs.

Bryant returned the following season and dominated on offense again, posting numerous 50 and 60 point games but in spite of it all, L.A. got bounced in round one of the '07 playoffs. The past two seasons have seen a different, more sedate Bryant on offense. He has become a far more willing facilitator and thus, a better teammate. As a result, the Lakers have made the Finals both years, getting trounced in '08 and winning in '09.

In 10 seasons of the 2000's, Kobe Bryant averaged 28.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists. He won one MVP award, 2 scoring titles and 4 NBA titles with one Finals MVP. He shot 46% from the floor, 84% from the foul line and 34% from the 3-point line. His teams made the Finals six times, and their record was 4-2. What's troubling is this: there were four seasons that his teams didn't make the Finals and there was an unreal seven years between NBA titles. O'Neal's teams made the Finals 5 times, Duncan's team made it three. So even if we accept Kobe's choice as player of the decade, there are so many holes in his "great" decade. He's only been considered the consensus best player in the league for maybe half of the ten years.

Which brings me to the next point in this topic; Michael Jordan.

Jordan, the recently Hall of Fame inducted icon of basketball is the man that Bryant has been repeatedly compared to since his rookie season. Though Jordan joined the NBA's Chicago Bulls in the mid-1980's, his decade of dominance was unquestionably the 1990's and trust me, no one will debate whether he was the NBA player of that decade. Jordan's decade comes with an asterisk, though. He played just seven of the ten seasons, due to two retirements and still far out shined Bryant.

Jordan's teams, in the seasons he played, went 6-0 in the NBA Finals. Jordan himself won 7 scoring titles, 4 MVP's and all 6 Finals MVP's. He also won 2 steals titles and authored several of the most historic moments in NBA playoff history. Bryant had the highest single regular season average in nearly 20 years in '06. Jordan's 41.0 ppg in the '93 Finals was the highest scoring average in Finals history.

Gigantic difference.

The only season in the '90's that the Bulls didn't win the title with MJ was the first season; 1990. That was when Jordan's postseason performance was nothing short of genius, yet the upstart team came within one victory of making the championship series. After that, Jordan steered the Bulls to a trifecta of titles in '91, '92 and '93, then retired at the apex of his career less than four months later. During the 1994 season, Chicago performed above expectations without MJ, but lost in the playoffs to New York, who went on to lose in the Finals to the eventual champion Houston Rockets. The following season was far more tempestuous for the Bulls and was wrought with dissension, especially from secondary star Scottie Pippen. Shockingly, Jordan returned to the team with just a month left, but never regained his legendary form. The Bulls lost in round 2 to Orlando, mostly because of a lack of the in shape edition of MJ for the entire season.

The Rockets repeated as champs in the '95 Finals.

The 1996 season saw the return of Jordan from Day one. As a result, he dominated the league as did his team and they rolled to an unreal 72-10 record. The Bulls won their 4th championship and MJ reclaimed his status as the league's top player.

Jordan wowed the league yet again during the 1997 season as he amassed another iconic campaign. As his age escalated, so too did his drive. Chicago was virtually unbeatable again and that resulted in NBA crown number 5, led of course by the excellence of Michael.

There was an air of finality to the 1998 season for the Bulls and Jordan, and the entire campaign was dubbed "The Last Dance." Jordan, an increasingly mythical figure by that time was revered in arenas all over the country. It was rather surreal that his basketball artistry had persisted for as long as it had, he was a ripe 35 years of age at the time and still managed to loom largest over an entire league of young stars.

It was indescribable how giant his impact had become.

After a very adversity-filled season, the Bulls traipsed through the playoffs and onto the Finals against Utah. For the second straight season, the reality of facing off against Jordan in the championship series proved to be too much for the Jazz and they lost the series as Chicago celebrated the 6th NBA title of the decade. Jordan's final jumpshot sent his ethereal legacy into an unreachable universe.

Jordan retired prior to the 10th season of the decade, and a number of the other key players went their separate ways. All in all, Jordan stamped the '90's as his personal proving ground for his stupefying greatness. His raw numbers; 30.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists nearly reflect Bryant's, except for the nearly three points per game scoring difference. Jordan shot better too. He hit 50% of his shots, 83% of his free throws and 36% of his 3-pointers.

The things that stick out to me most in the comparisons are as follows. Jordan was the top player steering his teams to championships the entire decade. When he was in the lineup all season, the Bulls were practically invincible. His dominance spanned the entire decade, without huge gaps of futility. There also was no other player even remotely close to being as accomplished as MJ during the decade. For Bryant, he starred behind the gigantic dominance of O'Neal early in his decade, then endured several long years of mediocrity and losing. When his team finally won with him as the head honcho, it came after a string of other teams winning the title.

In the end, I say this: congratulations to Kobe Bryant for being voted the top player of the 2000's, but there is no way that he's anywhere close to Michael Jordan is the history of the NBA.

But then again, no one is.

All Around Town

CLEVELAND - With just a handful of episodes left until the season finale, Deante Young's shock-tinged web series premiere's its 45th installment today entitled, "Ease On Down The Road."

It takes us all over town.

Young has mentioned in interviews that the racy a Date with Deante will air 30 episodes in the ongoing season 2 before it goes on hiatus for several months. No word yet on when the season finale will air, but officials at April Fool's Entertainment promise that the episode, the 50th overall will be a bit different from typical shows. They declined to elaborate until an official press release is issued.

As for the new episode, Deante meanders down city streets, poking fun at anyone he sees while stopping off for a hot dog and an impromptu discussion with a middle-aged hippie.

As usual, laughter dominates the entire experience.

'Cosby Show' Educated America On Race & Class

CLEVELAND - Bill Cosby became famous in the early 1960's because of his massive comedic gifts. In the 1980's, he became a certified icon and visionary when he reshaped the television landscape, as well as White America's perception of Black families.

What an accomplishment.

Today marks the 25th anniversary of the debut of The Cosby Show, the groundbreaking series loosely based on Cosby's real-life family. It was an immediate hit for NBC and, even though it consisted of an all-Black cast, it resonated with people of varying race and social class. What was so unique about the series was its portrayal of an African-American family. Up until this point, Blacks were portrayed on television as destitute, marginally educated and occasionally buffoonish. Cosby made sure that the sitcom would present an upper middle class family with well educated parents that have successful professional careers. Indeed, his character Cliff Huxtable was an OB/GYN and his wife Claire was a high-powered attorney at a major law firm.

This was unprecedented on television at the time.

The Huxtable children, five in all were inspired by Cosby's own offspring. Ranging in age from kindergarten to college, the children's personalities and "adventures" were so common to kids all across the country that the stories presented on the show began to make non-Blacks aware of just how similar we all are, regardless of race.

Classic Black sitcoms such as Good Times and Sanford and Son gave African-Americans a TV reputation of pervasive poverty and undereducated foolishness in the 1970's. This became the accepted truth amongst many Whites of how Blacks were in real life. When 'Cosby' hit on September 20, 1984, the sight of an esteemed doctor and his educated and intellectual attorney wife living in an elegant, Brooklyn brownstone stunned mainstream America. Success and intellect had never before been shown in this way on television with Blacks at the center of it all.

The Cosby Show lasted for eight seasons and when it finally ended in 1992, it had become a legitimate and important part of America's cultural evolution. Recently, Cosby's on-screen wife Phylicia Rashad declared that "these Black families had existed for decades prior to the show...they were only "new" to television."

Absolutely.

It is amazing to me just how racist and closed-minded America was in the 1980's. Many of these beliefs seemed to be antiquated relics from the '50's or '60's. But, it was still in existence then, and to be honest, even now in some ways.

I salute Mr. Cosby for what he brought to the attention of America. Too bad more lessons weren't learned from this brilliance piece of history.

Public Indecency In Private

CLEVELAND - Deante Young has seen it all while interviewing folks for his outrageous web series. Gays, lesbians, homeless drunks, strange tattoos in odd places, face-to-face racism, drug addicts, bad mothers and girls happy to have a disease.

But episode 44 takes the cake.

One of the biggest nut jobs in the history of a Date with Deante makes a return with a wild and stunning display of um...indecency in his own home when he starts off by showing off his "shortcomings" and ends with a predatory molestation act. Everything in between is actually worse!

Check out the brand new installment entitled, "Blame It On the Boogie" and summon every brave bone and nerve in your body to witness this stunning debacle.

Kanye West: A Cocky, Brilliant...Idiot

CLEVELAND - Kanye West amazed and inspired me from the first time I heard his work as a hip-hop artist. Some said he was arrogant, I said he was very self-assured. Some said he was obnoxious, I said he was cultivating his brand. Turns out, everyone was correct.

He was and still is all of those things.

Sunday night marked the lowest point of West's "social" career, which is saying an awful lot. In a moment destined to become an infamous event in pop culture lore, West hijacked country singer Taylor Swift's acceptance speech after she won an MTV Video Music Award over, among others, Beyonce Knowles. He took the mic from Swift and proclaimed to the star studded audience that Beyonce had "one of the best videos of all time." In other words, West felt as though Beyonce should have won instead of the 19-year old Swift.

I, along with the rest of America was in utter shock.

Swift, momentarily deflated and stunned, gave an awesome live performance of her song "You Belong With Me" just minutes later, but the West backlash had already begun. He was removed from the building and the mere mention of his name garnered boos from the crowd for the rest of the night. The Internet was abuzz with reaction to the incident, even from celebrities who were in attendance at the VMA's. West later posted an apology on his blog, but it didn't matter.

The following day, the debacle was all over the news and West himself was vilified and castigated for the audacious incident. In an ironic twist, he'd been scheduled for months to perform the hit single, "Run This Town" with Jay-Z and Rihanna on Jay Leno's brand new variety show, which debuted just 24 hours after the infraction. During an impromptu interview with Leno, Kanye appeared shaken, contrite and humble -- emotions that have never described him.

The following day, Swift appeared on The View and recounted her thoughts as the event unfolded. She also mentioned that West hadn't personally contacted her to apologize. However, before she left the building, she received a call from him and according to sources, she accepted his apology.

Here's my take: I am one of the few people that has always understood Kanye's personality. Sure, he seems egotistical and arrogant, but I believe he is just a guy that faced so many challenges and had so many doubters, that now that he's a critically acclaimed music producer and recording artist, he chooses to shout it from the rooftops early and often in an I-told-you-so-fashion. I believe his passion got him there, but that passion often manifests itself in less than stellar ways. He tells the world how great he is, then isn't able to summon humility when he needs to and conversely, we get his petulant outbursts at awards shows.

This was different, though.

For West to insinuate himself into a situation that had absolutely nothing to do with him was above the pale. The nominees were female for one, and for two, they were Swift and Knowles. If he had a problem with Beyonce losing, that's fine, he's entitled to his opinion. But in no way did he have a right to crash Swift's speech and defile her moment to satisfy his own (drunken) agenda. That was beyond rude and arrogant. It was selfish and childish and reeked of a distinct lack of respect, class and poise. For Kanye to be so gifted as an artist and producer, he is very lacking in tact and grace.

After reading a few comments online from several black folks, I am even more enraged. While nearly everyone, even West's peers and friends say that his behavior was deplorable, many of the comments were from people upset with West for "bowing to the white man" and for essentially being an Uncle Tom. They even suggested that Swift deserved what Kanye did to her and even labeled her a "white devil." Most of these people applauded him for his behavior and felt like he "sold out" by apologizing.

Wow.

When ignorance, idiocy and stupidity is present, I just want to leave the room. Nothing was acceptable about his actions, and like it or not, he just furthered the disdain that Whites have for Blacks. Kanye made us all fit into a stereotype that so many racists have put us in with his transgression.

Talent means nothing without class and respect.

Leno's New Gig: Familiar, Yet Still Very Funny

CLEVELAND - I've been a fan of late night talk shows for a quarter century, so when Jay Leno ended his 17-year tenure on The Tonight Show last May, I knew a great era had ended.

Until last night.

Leno, 59 debuted his new series on his old network with a familiar template, a few subtle changes and his trademark gags still firmly in place. The effort was strong, his comedy was still highly entertaining and his guests were better than expected.

But with his challenging new 10PM time slot, I hope he can last.

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld was Leno's first ever guest (on this show) and was funnier than usual. When he mentioned to Jay that in the 1990's, retiring actually meant that a person left (instead of starting a new show), it set the stage for a truly funny interview. Media maven Oprah Winfrey dropped into the conversation, via a television and actually added a little spice to Seinfeld's interview, while Leno himself played the straight man.

Gags and short sketches have long been a strength of Jay's brand, and it was no different here. His opening monologue was sharp and witty, a faux "interview" with President Obama was gut-bustingly funny at times but a car wash skit was garbage.

By the time Leno got to a previously unscheduled interview with Kanye West, (the most anticipated portion of the show just a day after his VMA meltdown), I was pretty locked into the familiar looking show. West had long been scheduled to perform with Jay-Z and Rihanna, but asked Leno for a brief sit-down to apologize further for his deplorable behavior at Sunday's award show. West, a notoriously egotistical hothead that just happens to be an awesome music producer and artist seemed contrite and was certainly at a loss for words. The incident, in which he ambushed country singer Taylor Swift's acceptance speech at MTV's Video Music Awards to proclaim that Beyonce should have won, has creating a firestorm of rage around West since it happened. This was his first public discussion about it, and he was visibly uncomfortable during the awkward sit-down that saw him apologize and apparently realize the selfishness of it.

Or maybe he was putting on a hell of an act.

Just seconds after the talking ended, West stepped onto a stage with Jay-Z and Rihanna and the trio promptly went into performing the hit single "Run This Town" from Jay-Z's brand new LP, The Blueprint 3.

Leno ended his inaugural episode with his famous "headlines" bit.

I enjoyed the "new" show and I hope it flourishes. If it fails, it won't be because of Leno; he's still funny as heck.

Swayze's Courage Defined His Character

CLEVELAND - So sad to hear about Patrick Swayze's death last night, not because he was a great and beloved actor, but because he was such a brave and humble guy with a beautiful 34 year marriage to Lisa, the love of his life.

God bless her and his family.

Swayze, 57 succumbed to pancreatic cancer, the horrifying disease that he was diagnosed with less than two years ago. In spite of the immense pain that it causes (not to mention its grim prognosis), he was determined to live and enjoy life and all its little pleasures. He told Barbara Walters last January that he wasn't going to "chase life," but he didn't need to. His understanding of his situation and willingness to embrace life for what it had become as opposed to what it had been when he was healthy was a catalyst in his relative happiness.

I watched Swayze's demeanor and listened closely to his words since his diagnosis and I couldn't help but be inspired. Without question, his courage said a great deal about the wonderful person he was. He was realistic, yet optimistic and had an amazingly high pain threshold. Indeed, just months after he received the bad news, he plunged into filming 13 episodes of a new cable TV series called "The Beast." Though grueling and highly challenging given his condition, he pressed on with a steely tenacity that amazed his co-stars.

And me.

Swayze will be remembered so much for his acting, especially in the 1987 film, Dirty Dancing as well as 1990's Ghost. But, while I recognize that those were two incredible movies, I won't tether his legacy to them.

He was just a hell of a guy. Period.

MTV's VMA's: The Good, The Bad And The Odd

CLEVELAND - For me, last night's MTV Video Music Awards caused a gamut of emotions. There were tears, jeers and cheers from me during the two and a half hour spectacle that began and ended with Michael Jackson.

The in-between was something else.

The good: Pop legend Madonna opened the show (held at New York's Radio City Music Hall) with a moving, occassionally funny and heartfelt speech about Michael, noting a range of similarities between the two of them, then detailing her friendship with the man that she dominated 1980's music and pop culture with. She extolled his kindness and brilliance and labeled him a "human being," but still very much a "king." Though they grew distant, she was quick to assert that "we abandoned him."

After Madonna finished, a troupe of dancers filled the stage clad in various trademark Michael Jackson outfits and ran through a short medley of a few of his iconic songs. Against a large, video screen backdrop, the dancers mimicked Jackson's choreographed dance numbers in sync with him on the screen, which featured him performing in those groundbreaking short films. When MJ's futuristic 1995 clip for the song "Scream" came on, his sister Janet (who featured on the song and video) took to the stage and reprised her dance sequences as well as Michael's while it played out on the screen behind her. It was an electrifying performance by all, and it caused me to shed buckets of tears.

The Bad: Hip-hop musician and producer Kanye West, a notoriously egotistical sore loser, stormed the stage when young newcomer Taylor Swift won an award over a group of nominees that included Beyonce Knowles. West interrupted Swift's exuberant acceptance speech to declare that Beyonce should have won instead of her, which prompted a chorus of boos from the star-studded crowd. Knowles appeared stunned in her seat, as did Swift on stage. West wasn't seen again the rest of the night.

What a total creep.

The Odd: Eccentric pop star Lady Gaga showed up with Kermit the Frog as her date, whom she kissed while she sported a Phantom of the Opera-style face mask. She later performed her hit song "Paparazzi" with heavy theatrics that included a glittery wheelchair and fake blood dripping from her torso. She switched outfits often, at one point wearing a red lace shroud which covered her entire face with matching crown. After that? Gaga's face was encased in a circular haystack. Incidentally, I love her style. I felt that her "oddities" were also among the "good" simply because she is original and isn't afraid to go to extremes to express herself.

More good: Pink has become a favorite of mine. She looked and sounded great during her performance as did Beyonce, who surprised me with how thick and curvy she is. Taylor Swift is a 19-year old knockout and brushed off the Kanye debacle with an awesome performance of her song "You Belong With Me" on a subway train before running through the station and finally, outside the building. Later, Beyonce won an award and asked Swift to take to the stage and use her (Beyonce's) time to finally have "her moment" since West ruined hers. That was true class at its finest.

Great to see Eminem win an award for his music video "We Made You." He stepped onstage and thanked his fans for sticking by him during his hiatus from music, then dedicated the award to his fallen friend, Proof.

Jay-Z made a grand entrance after his motorcade traversed the streets of Manhattan before dropping him off at an exclusive, backstage door. He walked in calm, yet confident, grabbed a mic, then stepped out on stage and launched into his new song "Empire State of Mind" while Alicia Keys crooned the hook and played the piano.

The Odd: Host Russell Brand, who also emceed the show last year. His over-the-top and often racy humor tends to border on the peculiar, and he can be quite disturbing.

The Good: We were finally treated to the trailer for the forthcoming Michael Jackson feature length documentary, "This Is It." The film is comprised of footage from Michael's rehearsals as he prepared for what was to be his swan song as a touring artist. Due in theaters October 28 for a two week run, it also features interviews and other behind the scenes access that we've never seen. From what I saw, it looks and sounds incredible.

Great show overall, but someone needs to invest in a muzzle for Mr. West. Or maybe even a restraining order.

That wasn't a joke, either.

Shakur Hid True Brilliance Behind 'Thug' Act

CLEVELAND - Tupac Shakur managed to be a superstar rap artist as well as a highly coveted sex symbol, but never quite understood the power of his true brilliance because he was busy covering it up.

What a shame.

It was 13 years ago today that arguably the most shocking and pivotal moment in hip-hop history took place; Shakur died from wounds he suffered in a rainstorm of gunfire six days earlier in Las Vegas, NV. His death dealt a gigantic blow to both his legion of devoted fans as well as the music industry, particularly urban music. At the time, Shakur (popularly known as 'Pac) was the biggest star in the game. His magnum opus, the sprawling, double CD All Eyez On Me had been released seven months earlier and received massive acclaim. Additionally, 2Pac had been embroiled in a tit-for-tat feud with rival East coast rap star the Notorious B.I.G. and had recently released a vitriolic song entitled, "Hit 'Em Up" in order to publicly humiliate B.I.G.

Shakur had come into national prominence in 1992 when both his debut album 2Pacalypse Now and his feature film debut Juice were released to glowing reviews. From there, the previously introspective, often political 'Pac began to get involved in trouble of all sorts. He began modifying his image and soon became "thugged out" in both appearance and behavior. Brushes with the law and antagonistic lyrics soon became his trademark and ironically, his fame and status grew significantly.

In 1993, Shakur shot two police officers and was accused of sexual assault on a woman. He himself was shot several times in November 1994, and even though he survived the attack, he went to prison for the sex crime. 2Pac wound up spending less than a year incarcerated, but once his $1.4 million bail was posted by music mogul Suge Knight, he was a free man, but indebted to Knight for his generosity. This is when 'Pac signed to Death Row Records and promptly began crafting music for All Eyez On Me. Strangely enough, 2Pac became more brash and pugnacious once he was out of prison. Being in Knight's camp almost seemed to provide him a security blanket and he let his hubris hang out all over the place with "gangsta' posturing" and sharp bravado designed to paint him as a "hardcore thug nigga from the street."

The problem with all of this was simple; 2Pac only hurt his image by cultivating such a negative one. By the time he attended the Mike Tyson/Bruce Seldon prizefight at the MGM Grand on September 7, 1996, he'd completed his 5th solo album, "Makaveli: The Seven Day Theory" which was scheduled for release two months later. He was gunned down in a still-unsolved drive-by shooting on the Vegas strip after the Tyson fight while riding in a BMW with Knight.

Since he had been shot two years prior, many believed that he would again pull through. He also seemed to be, through the mythology of his music, invincible. He wasn't. He received major surgery and lapsed into a coma before finally fading away on that awful Friday the 13th afternoon 13 years ago. Of course, fans were overcome with major grief and disbelief and Shakur became canonized almost immediately. He was now seen less as a troublemaker and more as a martyr who became the voice of a generation.

What is so wasteful to me is that Shakur was amazingly intelligent, philosophical and articulate. There's an interview of him, filmed in 1988 when he was just 17 years old where he poses some very thoughtful observations and questions about politics and the plight of poverty stricken people and how they are overlooked by the "hotshots" in Washington, D.C. That intelligence and analytical ability was on display occasionally, though not nearly enough because he was busy living up to his contrived "thugness."

Don't get me wrong. I'm aware of Shakur's upbringing and his street-side, so there are no false illusions on my part. I'm just disappointed that the man who became an icon in death wasn't more forthcoming with his genius. I always say that if he were around nowadays, he'd be a far more professorial type, maybe in the vein of Michael Eric Dyson; Dr. Tupac Shakur if you will.

Shakur's lyrics were often a work of art -- when he eschewed the violence and mayhem for poetic amelioration. He was an idealist as well as an activist in his own way, but he too often got in his own way and his potentially transformative influence was extinguished.

Looking back on 2Pac's brilliant career from the vantage point of 13 years later, I can't help but wonder how he would have impacted the world in the 21st century. Remember, he was just 25 years old when he was killed so he had so much room for improvement and time to shake off that young ignorance that we're all cursed with initially. Tupac Shakur was so much more than we knew at the time, but if we continue to listen to his music, we'll continue to decipher his true message, not the commercialized one.

Long live Tupac.

Jordan Cleverly Used Doubts To Fuel His Legend

CLEVELAND - It is officially etched in stone; Michael Jordan is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame.

Man! How did that happen?

Seriously though. Jordan's enshrinement has been a foregone conclusion for at least 20 years given his incandescent skills, epic achievements and seismic impact on sports, culture and big business. He is the most iconic performer in hoops history, his significance is an amalgamation of Babe Ruth, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown and Wayne Gretzky. In short, Michael Jordan was the biggest embodiment of all that a legendary athlete should be. He was remarkably gifted, but that skill was augmented by an incomparable drive, which birthed his impassioned work ethic. He was singularly brilliant, yet hell-bent on winning above all else, which enabled him to imbue his teammates with the requisite confidence to win at a blistering rate.

MJ won a mountain of awards and sassed his competition into submission with his polished fundamentals and superlative athleticism. He was the quintessential star leader and because of the completeness of his game and incorrigible competitiveness, he led his teams into becoming champions many times over.

Last night, we all found out how he became so excellent.

Jordan took to the podium amid a 73 second standing ovation, his face bathed in tears and his voice nearly paralyzed with emotion and served up effusive praise for Scottie Pippen, his superstar sidekick during the Chicago Bulls' trouncing of the NBA in the 1990's. Jordan also spoke glowingly of his childhood influences; Walter Davis and his presenter, David Thompson. Once the tears subsided and the pleasantries had been issued, MJ went on the attack like it was a pivotal NBA playoff game.

He mentioned early basketball rivals such as his older brother Larry and Leroy Smith, a student at E.A. Laney High School who made the varsity basketball team instead of Michael. College roommate Buzz Peterson, whom he secretly targeted to prove himself to be superior to on the court because he was voted top high school player in the state instead of Jordan.

MJ mentioned naysayers in the media, who opined that Jordan was good, but not on the level of then-current stars Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. He thanked Bird, Johnson and Isiah Thomas and George Gervin, who were both in attendance for forcing him to take his game to another level after the apocryphal "freeze out" in the 1985 NBA all-star game, during Jordan's rookie year. Best of all, Jordan brought up his first meeting with Bryon Russell, which took place in 1994. Russell taunted the then-retired-and-playing-baseball Jordan by essentially telling him that he could handle him "if he ever caught MJ in shorts." Of course, Jordan un-retired in 1995, then hit a jumper over Russell to win Game 1 of the 1997 NBA Finals, but more famously, juked him with a crossover (and shove) and drilled a jumper to win the NBA championship a year later.

MJ also "thanked" former New York Knicks coaches Pat Riley and Jeff Van Gundy for raising his competitive ire, and praised the legendary Dean Smith, his coach at the University of North Carolina as well as Phil Jackson, whom he labeled a pro version of Smith. He "playfully" derided former Bulls GM Jerry Krause (who boycotted the ceremony) and owner Jerry Reinsdorf, both of whom he has a long-standing icy relationship with. He reminded his three children that they have "a lot to live up to" and that he "wouldn't want to be in their shoes if [he] had to."

What I took from Jordan's speech was this: he expertly used the doubts, negative comments and slights (real or imagined) of many people to ignite his already fiery competitiveness. He may have seemed defiant in his words, and in a sense he was. But it was all about him basically saying, "if you ever doubt me, you'll be proven wrong." He was vengeful whenever anyone sold him short, and that was mostly because he knew how hard he worked to perfect his craft and thusly, took these slights from others as an affront to his colossal commitment. That's not arrogance, that is incredible self-assuredness based on the work he put in. He earned it...he didn't have it handed to him.

Jordan made it clear that he doesn't see himself as the greatest player in history, as he is so often called. He extended praise to his predessessors and greatly acknowledged his contemporaries, especially two who were also enshrined last night; John Stockton and David Robinson.

In the end, MJ will always be the ultimate competitor as well as the most iconic hoopster in history. He'll always dispense praise where it's due and it will be sincere.

As long as you don't underestimate or doubt him.

Jordan's Birthright Becomes Reality Today

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan will officially become enshrined into basketball immortality today as he gets formally inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, an occurrence so expected for so long, that it should have been put on the 2009 calendar the minute he was born in 1963.

I'm only half joking.

Jordan enters the hallowed halls of hoops heaven alongside other hardwood luminaries such as David Robinson, John Stockton and coaches Jerry Sloan and C. Vivian Stringer. In spite of his prestigious company, Jordan is without a doubt the headliner and his entrance has received a disproportionate amount of press and publicity.

He deserves every bit of it and more.

Naturally, I am a gigantic MJ fan and have been for many years, so I am a little biased. Even still, Jordan's expansive accomplishments and historic impact on both basketball and pop culture is simply unprecedented.

I will be waiting with heavy anticipation, ready to dispense a hearty standing ovation.

The Absolute Horror of 9/11

CLEVELAND - Today marks arguably the worst, most brutal day in United States history. It was an unspeakable tragedy of epic proportions that felt like sudden Armageddon and ended in over 3,000 deaths.

September 11, 2001.

Eight years ago today was an overwhelmingly tragic day for the nation, but it was also a terrifying day to those of us that weren't directly affected. Thankfully, I didn't lose any loved ones in any of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA, but it was a very nerve-wrecking day nonetheless. I awoke that morning with two thoughts on my mind; reports had surfaced the previous day about Michael Jordan's decision to return to pro basketball, this time with the Washington Wizards after a nearly four year hiatus. Also, Jay-Z's highly anticipated album, The Blueprint was set for release on this day. Both things delighted me to no end, but watching the see-it-to-believe it situation unfolding on television caused initial shock, then as the day progressed, absolute fear.

I was scared.

There was an air of panic that hovered over that day. There was apprehension just getting on a bus or rapid transit. Bomb threats were reported in Cleveland and the normally populous downtown section was a veritable ghost town at noon, normally the busiest time of the day.

Interesting to me, Jay-Z was set to release The Blueprint 3 today (he released it three days ago) and Jordan is being enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame in a few hours. Talk about irony and coincidence.

With the massive deaths and heroism, this is clearly an indelible day that will forever live in infamy. It is also a day that is symbolic of America's resolve.

God continue to keep us safe from a repeat of such cruelty.

Who's Bad?

CLEVELAND - For anyone that's ever screened the ultra-shocking web series a Date with Deante, nothing should be able to surprise them. Yet somehow, the unadulterated Young manages to do just that every episode.

The newest edition is no exception.

Young debuts the 43rd installment today entitled, "Who's Bad?" and once again raises the bar for obscene comedy. From convincing an already eager guy to expose himself to trying to get a deaf alcoholic to assist him in masturbating, Young knows no boundaries.

Has he ever?

Check out the new clip. It's guaranteed to delight!

Retired Jordan Closed Stadium With 52 And A Kiss

CLEVELAND - With the legendary Michael Jordan being inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame on Friday, tributes and retrospectives of his historic career have been flowing in by the dozens from everywhere.

Here's one more.

It was 15 years ago today that a retired Jordan took to the court to play in former teammate Scottie Pippen's charity game. It was the final game and event ever to be held at Chicago Stadium, the venerable venue that housed countless historic events in its 65-year history. The game was sponsored by Ameritech and served as MJ's first public appearance in a hoops game since Game 6 of the 1993 NBA Finals. By the time this game took place, he'd been retired nearly a year.

With several current and future NBA stars participating, the rusty Jordan would have a tough go at it, at least in theory. He was a member of the White team and sported the white, black and grey Air Jordan X. Pippen was the leader of the Red team, which presented tantalizing possibilities for the two former teammates who had led the Chicago Bulls to three straight NBA championships from 1991 to 1993.

Penny Hardaway, who had just one season of NBA experience under his belt amazed the crowd as expected. Jason Kidd and Grant Hill, who began their rookie seasons a month later, greatly impressed. But it was the bittersweet sight of MJ in a hoops uniform that teased the crowd, all of which were his hometown fans. Since his stunning and sudden retirement the previous October, Jordan had taken to playing minor league baseball, which confounded the sports world.

MJ was electrifying as he netted a myriad of jumpers, layups and dunks. His rust was apparent only in the fact that he missed 22 shots, yet he made 24 en route to a searing 52 points. Of course, this was essentially a late-summer all-star game, so defense was nearly non-existent. Jordan was legitimately awesome, though. Late in the game, the crowd rose to their feet as Jordan and Pippen briefly went one-on-one. Michael scored on a fadeaway and again on a driving layup. Both he and Pippen missed their final shots, then hugged at the final buzzer as MJ's team won.

Final score, 187-150.

Jordan stated in the post game press conference what we already knew. "I can still do this," he said to the media. "I just don't have to do it in front of 18,676 or on anyone else's clock." Without question, the lasting image from that game took place after the buzzer. Jordan knelt down and kissed the Bulls logo at center court. He told the media that he and the arena shared a mutual love and respect. It [the closing arena] had given him a lot and hopefully, he'd given it just as much.

In the following days, Jordan went back to the minor leagues for another run at baseball while the Bulls began playing at the brand new United Center starting in the 1994-95 season. Of course, we all know now that Michael got antsy sometime around mid-season and, aided by the Major League Baseball strike he returned to pro basketball, eventually leading Chicago to another three NBA titles.

Lucky us.

I think it is possible that the "meaningless" little charity game 15 years ago may have been where MJ's original spark to return came from. He was once again on center stage, wowing the crowd, dogging the defense and steering a team to victory; all very familiar territory for the man-turned-icon.

Thank God for charity.

For Jay-Z, 'Blueprint 3' Is Evolutionary Brilliance

CLEVELAND - Talented people are not automatic geniuses and superstars don't always evolve into legends. For one Mr. Shawn Carter, he is the rare exception.

He is a legendary genius, and it continues to show in his work.

Carter, the 39-year old Brooklyn native known professionally as Jay-Z has released his 11th solo album The Blueprint 3 today, three days earlier than planned to lessen the impact of bootlegging the LP, which leaked online a week ago.

I can say with absolute certainty; this album is superb.

While Jay-Z's 2001 album The Blueprint is among the top albums of the decade and 2002's The Blueprint 2: The Gift and the Curse was a guest-laden, double CD offering that was very good, yet mildly disappointing, the new album showcases Jay as a brilliant lyricist, versatile and evolutionary. His formidable legacy looms large over this album (in spite of the litany of guests) and he deftly proves yet again why he's as great as he is.

Nowadays, it has sadly become popular to ridicule Jay-Z because of his age. Many lesser artists use this as their best defense mechanism since rap is typically a young man's game. But the truth is quite simple; Jay-Z has what no one else in the game has or for that matter, ever had. The man has a resume more expansive than anyone else in the 30-year history of hip-hop. No one has ever enjoyed such relevance for over a dozen years whilst doling out a gigantic catalog of mega hits, guest appearances and indelible lines. And let's not forget the millions upon millions of records sold and endless cache of awards.

And that's just the music.

Jay-Z is a superlative businessman and a tireless worker. He isn't simply a rapper that romanticizes his drug-dealing past and brags about his mega-wealthy present. There is a distinct sophistication in his music, especially the new joint. Jay-Z is an amalgam of hustler, executive and philosopher and merges the wisdom and pragmatism of such contemporaries as Talib Kweli and Common with the glittering commercialism of a Lil' Jon or a Soulja Boy -- just with a far more substantial lyrical dexterity.

Listening to The Blueprint 3, it becomes increasingly apparent that Jay studies everything. He takes hip-hop into unfamiliar and unconventional areas that work for him better than it works for anyone else. Case in point: on the much maligned "D.O.A.," he likens his music to that of iconic crooner Frank Sinatra. For a drug-dealer turned mogul, that is a huge leap but it fits because of his aura. Yes, the track has gotten plenty of flak (many call him an out-of-touch fuddy duddy), but he exudes a smooth elegance on this song that makes him equally believable as a Rat Pack-era star who shares commonality with Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. or a modern day hustler in the 'hood.

Another though that occurred to me as I listened to the album: Jay-Z has actually laid out his blueprint his entire career; hustle your way out of the environment you were born into, never let that place confine or define you, learn from what you see and experience and be smart enough to allow that hard knock life to inspire epic ambitions, of which many he's achieved. On the hit single "Run This Town," Kanye West (who produced much of the album) co-stars, and it was his understanding and acceptance of Jay's philosophy that took him from a Chicago suburb (obviously different circumstances from Jay's) to the top of the music industry as both artist and producer. West has excelled because he's followed Jay's blueprint.

"Empire State of Mind" showcases Jay as a diverse, global figure. He is clearly the most adaptable star in his genre's history and is a student of not just hip-hop and its pioneers, but also Hollywood, sports, politics and pop culture. Coupled with his vast intellect, that is precisely why he's so incredible and witty, not to mention full of substance.

"On to the Next One" has Jay's evolution front and center. He details his significance and prominence in the entire entertainment industry, matter-of-factly mentioning holding company with such icons as Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey as well as President Barack Obama. Theme of the song: he doesn't get bogged down by the status quo.

"Off That" is an interesting merger of young and experienced. Current Mr. popularity R&B/rapper Drake features on this track but it's Jay that dominates. He conveys a been-there-done-that vibe with this song, even doing so with grand hubris. Understand this: the inherent nature of hip-hop is flexing one's bravado and swagger, yet most do it without having accomplished anything. Jay actually explains why he's earned the right to do so.

I can't help but admire Jay-Z's excellent wordplay. On "Venus v.s. Mars," he deftly uses double entendres and puns to illustrate the subtle differences between he and his girl. Lines like "shorty like Pepsi, me I'm the "coke" man" are highly entertaining to anyone that actually "gets" it. I feel as though the song loosely represents the metaphorical differences between he and many of his supposed "competition."

My final analysis of The Blueprint 3 is simple. It is a great album and perhaps with time, a classic. Right now though, it is certainly a masterpiece and it stuns me that Jay can still be this good after 13 long years. No, it's not a typical Jay-Z album from his early years. But like he so eloquently states on the CD, "you want the old Jay, buy [his] old album." This is about evolution and improvement, and he's done both very well.

He's only added to his legacy as the best in history.

2Pac Shooting Was Our JFK Assassination

CLEVELAND - Tupac Shakur was an incendiary star in the world of rap and hip-hop music in the 1990's and, through his timeless music has remained so in the 21st century. He was also a brilliant intellect blessed with the wisdom of a visionary and cursed with a follower's flaw to fit in.

In short, he was hopelessly complicated.

Today is the 13th anniversary of Shakur's shooting on the Las Vegas strip. Though it was the second time he'd been shot in two years, it was far more serious. He died from his injuries six days later, forever changing music history and the landscape of hip-hop.

2Pac's shooting was a huge event. Since it resulted in his death at age 25, it became a flash point for urban America akin to President John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963. I'm not suggesting that a musician's death was as important or historic as the president of the United States, I'm simply saying that 2Pac had become a major symbol to black youth who emulated his aggressive and emotional lyrics and lifestyle -- for better and worse. Just like JFK's assassination, 2Pac was gunned down without the presence of the news media filming the event. Another JFK parallel is the multitude of conspiracy claims that have swirled around the murder. The Warren Commission concluded that Kennedy was murdered by Lee Harvey Oswald, though many people have never accepted such a simplistic hypothesis. With Shakur, no one has ever been officially named and with the cryptic nature of his first posthumous album (Makaveli: The Don Killuminati), many have suspected that the rap star faked his death just as Italian philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli did.

Shakur has been deified in the 13 years since his demise. He is hip-hop's foremost icon and continues to inspire a new generation of MCs who marvel at his brazen lifestyle and legendary bouts with the law, not to mention his signature lyrical style and subject matter.

In the final estimation, Shakur was a legitimate legend and inspirational force in spite of his flaws and erstwhile belligerence. It is a shame that he apparently felt compelled to kow tow to a "thuggish" image rather than expose the true genius that resided inside him.

He was greater than perhaps even he knew himself.

Jackson Will Never Be Buried To Me

CLEVELAND - Painful as it is, I must talk about Michael Jackson's burial yesterday, which took place 70 days after his stunning, sudden departure on June 25.

He will forever be on the surface of my mind, never buried.

The funeral, a quaint and exclusive event held at the iconic Forest Lawn cemetery eight miles north of Los Angeles, California was heavily delayed and then commenced with several luminaries speaking on Michael, sharing anecdotes and remembering the legendary entertainer for not only his historic accomplishments in the music industry, but also for the amazing person that he was.

It was dubbed, "a celebration of life."

Michael's closest friend, Dame Elizabeth Taylor attended as did some of Michael's friends-turned-co-stars in music videos; Macaulay Culkin and Chris Tucker. His first wife, Lisa Marie Presley was also amongst the group that bade the music giant a tearful farewell.

I never can say goodbye.

Michael will never become an afterthought to me. His expansive influence and eclectic style will forever inspire me just as it has to this point. I salute the man for his genius, generosity and dedication.

He spoiled us all.

Garrido: The Ultimate Nut Job Pervert

CLEVELAND - I have been absolutely transfixed, stunned and baffled at the criminal audacity of Phillip Garrido, the 58-year old California man that kidnapped, raped, twice impregnated and held captive Jaycee Dugard for a staggering 18 years.

What a loser.

Garrido amazingly managed to abduct Dugard in June 1991 when she was just 11 years old from a school bus stop as her step-father watched in horror from two blocks away. That was stunning enough as it were, but Garrido was a known sexual predator who had served just 11 years of an imposed 50 year sentence in the penitentiary for a litany of crimes (particularly rape) he committed against a 25-year old women in 1976. The fact that he was already "heavy in the system" for unspeakable and immoral crimes, yet went unimpeded in the Dugard abduction for nearly two decades is astonishing to me and scores of other Americans.

Wow.

Garrido was a pervert and sociopath of epic proportions. He molested Dugard at least twice and almost certainly far more times than that; he fathered two children with her when she was just 12 in 1993 and again when she was 16 in 1997. Those children, now aged 15 and 11 never attended school or visited a doctor. They were kept in an elaborate and obscured tent in Garrido's backyard along with their mother Dugard, whom they thought was their sister.

Since I am the father of two young girls and also have two younger sisters, this entire sordid tale sickens and terrifies me to no end. Additionally, it has been reported that Garrido was known to park a short distance from middle schools and high schools and masturbate to the sight of the young girls that would enter the school. That type of information makes me pray to God that my girls are NEVER faced with a devil like that; both for their own safety and my freedom because I would go ballistic when I got my hands on that sicko.

Garrido is in custody now as is his wife, his long time accomplice. Dugard, now 29 and her girls have been reunited with their family who is still in absolute shock that she has returned alive and well after all these years. My hope is that Dugard and her children's' odyssey benefits others, especially potential future victims. Law enforcement needs to step up their efforts and refocus their procedures in dealing with these situations.

It'll keep our children safe and us concerned parents out of prison.

Butterflies In Their Tummy

CLEVELAND - It's easy to see why the sight of Deante Young with a camera aimed is a very nerve-wrecking visual for anyone.

The guy is beyond blunt and brutal.

Young releases the 42nd episode of his web series a Date with Deante today and once again brings his trademark wit and razor sharp obscenities to his global audience. The episode, entitled "Butterflies" touches on such familiar topics as oral sex and drugs while also taking a stab at homosexuality and depression. Through it all, the trio of guests are visibly unnerved by the sheer intimidation of Young's presence.

Watch the brilliantly funny installment and prepare to shake your head in amazement.

Jackson's 'Bad' Film Showcased His Evolution

CLEVELAND - After the runaway, historic success of the Thriller album and era, Michael Jackson faced an uphill battle when he geared up for his follow-up.

And that is a major understatement.

It was 22 years ago today that Michael's long awaited Bad album debuted. Not only did the iconic entertainer return with a new record (his first in nearly five years), he also sported a new look and style. His skin was about two shades lighter, his face more oval shaped and his chin had a new cleft in it. He also had longer hair, shoulder length this time and a more street-wise wardrobe. His first music video from the new album showcased his new style, but more importantly his evolution as a creative innovator.

The "Bad" video was actually a 17-minute film starring Michael as Darryl, a young man returning home to New York City for school break. When he returns to his urban neighborhood as an educated, on-the-right-path guy, his old buddies meet up with him but haven't evolved at all, contrary to Darryl. The buddies live a life of crime with no focus in life at all and become angry and insulted at Darryl's intelligence and straight and narrow lifestyle. When the leader of the group (a young Wesley Snipes) nearly comes to blows with Darryl, the music portion of the flick begins and suddenly Darryl is clad in an elaborate black outfit adorned with buckles and straps and can amazing move and dance like Michael Jackson!

After the dance number (West Side Story-style with several dancers moving in sync to Jackson), Michael again becomes the more modest, soft-spoken Darryl and comes to an understanding with Snipes' character about being "bad" in a good way.

Michael followed his own lofty pattern of video making with this slick production. He enlisted iconic film director Martin Scorsese to helm the project and insisted on a script, rather than just a song video. The full version of the "Bad" video is almost never shown, rather the five minute song portion is. That's unfortunate because it illustrates once again the amazing innovation of Michael.

Watching the flick, one can't help but think about the stupendous "Thriller" film. That was when MJ took his innovation to another level and set the stage for his trademark film-style videos. The fact that he wanted a storyline and real Hollywood directors to bring his vision to fruition says a great deal about his ingenuity and originality, which were in prime form during the 1980's.

The "Bad" movie wasn't the runaway freight train that the "Thriller" flick was, but it was a tremendous success and brilliant showcase for Michael's relentless innovation.

Who's Bad?

Princess Diana: An Icon On Her Own Merits

CLEVELAND - Princess Diana became famous because of who she was married to. In spite of that fact, she became a truly beloved icon on her own merits and was a legitimate ambassador of good will.

In my opinion.

Today marks the 12th anniversary of Diana's sudden death following a high-speed car chase and subsequent crash in a tunnel in Paris, France. She and her companion Dodi Al-Fayed were among the four in the Mercedes Benz that was driven by Henri Paul, who floored the car while trying to elude a series of persistent paparazzi. Of the four, only one was wearing a seat belt and that was the lone survivor.

I was never a follower of the Princess, but my reaction was the same as much of the world when the news broke on that late summer day in 1997; utter shock. What I knew most about Diana was that she was relentlessly photographed by the media and of course, the paparazzi who were, in my opinion, complicit in her death. I was also aware of her friendship with the great Michael Jackson, whom she famously urged to perform his 1987 hit single, "Dirty Diana" during the London stop of his "Bad World Tour" in 1988 after he'd initially took the song out of the normal playlist out of respect for her name.

What I later learned about Princess Diana was her incredibly giving heart. She took a genuine interest in people (namely children) afflicted with illnesses and diseases. She was beyond brave when she became one of the first celebrities to touch an AIDS victim when the disease was still a huge mystery. She was a champion and spokesperson for homelessness, drug addicts, and the elderly. She was involved with charities and organizations and devoted major time to trying to better the world. In short, she was a tireless humanitarian.

Forget the glamour, glitz, scandal and celebrity of Diana. Let's give her what she truly deserves for the selfless and thoughtful person she was.

Our everlasting gratitude and respect.

Michael Jackson's 51st Birthday: An Appreciation

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson was born 51 years ago today in Gary, Indiana and thus, the world was forever blessed with his arrival.

Happy Birthday, Michael.

Naturally, I am still very upset that he isn't still on earth to celebrate his personal holiday. That horrible June 25 day will forever draw my ire. With yesterday's revelation that he was essentially murdered, I won't speak on that with any detail because it won't be at all pretty. I will suppress my searing rage in favor of great thoughts of that amazing individual.

Happy Birthday, Michael.

I am just so very grateful to Michael for the awesome catalog of memories he left me. His music, his dancing, his unique speaking voice, his custom costumes, trademark hair styles and epic creativity will forever elicit smiles from me. I love how Michael always had a healthy curiosity for all things and how that trickled down to his own style. His image was inspired by Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Sammy Davis Jr and of course, James Brown.

Happy Birthday, Michael.

Those groundbreaking short films (disguised as music videos) remain awesome to this day and continue to inspire contemporary artists. He was never afraid to be himself, even when many branded him weird and wacko. That aspect of the man inspires me personally more than anything else about him.

Let all of us that love Michael celebrate the totality of his colossal being, not just certain aspects of his being. Today is our day almost as much as it is his. We will forever and always love him and carry him in our souls. I know I will.

Happy Birthday, Michael.

King's Dream Will Never Totally Come True

CLEVELAND - Racism has always been a major stumbling block for this country, so even though we have made incredible progress to improve, it will never totally evaporate.

So much for that famous dream once shared by a King.

Today marks the 46th anniversary of what came to be known as the 'I Have a Dream' speech given by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King in Washington D.C. The lasting theme of that iconic speech was King's revelation of his dream of unity between people of all races and creeds. He articulated his ideals for a homogenized America, not a polarized one and it came during the apex of the Civil Rights movement. His words, so powerful when he delivered them, continues to resonate with Blacks all these decades later. But in spite of the major progress (in certain areas) made by us as a people, our country remains divided along racial lines and will always be that way.

That's the power of ignorance.

True, present day America is guided by a Black president named Barack Obama. His election last year was historical because it placed a black man in the White House as its top resident for the first time in history. But his seven month old administration has seen its fair share of racist threats and taunts and many Americans still harbor ill feelings towards others outside of their own race because of their race.

That is unfortunate.

We still have a long way to go because the destination is so vague. People inherit beliefs and philosophies from their ancestors and pass them on to their progeny. It's a vicious cycle without a conclusion and thus, a sad reality.

We'll never be perfect, so let's just pray for continued progress.

Ted Kennedy Was His Families' True Icon

CLEVELAND - When I initially learned of Senator Ted Kennedy's malignant brain tumor in the Spring of 2008, I was saddened and nervous that he might soon die.

He lived for another 15 months.

Kennedy, 77 died last night in Hyannis Port, Mass., leaving behind a gigantic legacy in American Democratic politics and a multitude of groundbreaking legislation. His family, the legendary Kennedy clan has captured the attention of the American public for a century, but the omnipotent Teddy came to represent not only his family, but the Democratic party as a whole.

Sure, Kennedy's older brothers achieved higher office (with John becoming president and Robert the attorney general), but Ted was a major force in the U.S. senate for nearly 50 years. Contrast that to JFK, who was tragically assassinated after less than three years in the White House. RFK was similarly killed five years later while running for president. Both of those brothers never made it out of their 40's. Another brother, Joe died in World War II in his 20's. Teddy outlasted them all and thus, had time to craft a sweeping legacy and accumulate an enormous "fanbase" in spite of the occasional mudslinging in the Senate.

Kennedy supported President Barack Obama's run for office last year, which helped to ameliorate Obama's candidacy and give him increased credibility. Kennedy was a role model and inspiration to many and endured unprecedented tragedies in his life that served to only make him stronger. He nearly became a dubious, infamous figure in history after the famous Chappaquiddick incident in 1969 that ended in a woman's death, but became an unlikely hero and beloved elder statesman instead.

I'm not heavily into politics, nor have I ever been. But Ted Kennedy's impact was sizable enough for me to feel sadness over his loss.

We'll miss him.

Aaliyah's Demise Continues To Hurt

CLEVELAND - I remember vividly the first time I fell in love with Aaliyah's voice. It was the summer of 1994 and her single "At Your Best" was always on the radio, much to my delight.

And she was just 15 years old.

Today marks the 8th anniversary of that horrible plane crash in the Bahamas that led to her stunning and violent death. At the time, Aaliyah was just 22 years old and poised for a major career upswing. She'd just released her third album five weeks earlier and it had been well received. The whole reason she was even in the Bahamas in the final week of August was to film a video for her new song, "Rock the Boat."

The shoot went well, but tragedy followed.

I don't want to go into too many details about that well documented plane crash because it still stings. Aaliyah wasn't supposed to die then. She was far too young, beautiful, talented and kind. It was too sudden and it continued the eerie trend of young, highly talented major figure in hip-hop/R&B dying suddenly. Since 2Pac's 1996 murder at age 25, his rival the Notorious B.I.G. was killed at 24, Big Pun died in 2000 at 28, Aaliyah in '01, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes eight months later in 2002 and Jam Master Jay in the fall of 2002. Six young greats gone in just six years and four of them in just two years.

Of course, the music industry was stunned and saddened. Aaliyah's closest friends paid tribute to her often; her boyfriend at the time, music mogul Damon Dash was understandably heartbroken and nearly catatonic for a time afterwards. Rap legend Jay-Z and Aaliyah's friend Missy Elliot issued major tribute songs in her honor.

A little more than two weeks later, the epic terrorists attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon changed the United States' perspective on life as we knew it and made Aaliyah's demise seem comparatively small. Whatever the case was, she was a shining star that graced our world.

That should never be forgotten.

Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'

CLEVELAND - Every time Deante Young interviews someone, the result is usually pure magic. He gets people to open up and expose the worst of themselves and he does it effortlessly.

That's what makes his web series so riveting.

Young debuts the 40th episode of a Date with Deante today entitled, "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" and once again delivers his trademark brand of shock humor by way of brutal honesty. Let's face it; nobody plays honesty for comedic effect better than Mr. Young.

In this clip, the 20th of the ongoing second season, Young converses with a homeless bum named Charlie who goes from "wise man of the streets" to "old pervert stripping in the streets" when a young woman shows up for a chat.

Then there's the iconic Tony Train Wreck, whose legend is based entirely on the side-splitting hilarity of his abhorrence; he is a gruff talking, brazen racist with a strong affinity for beer in copious amounts.

In the end, this stands as yet another brilliant example of Deante's genius. Check it out!

Jackson's 'Off The Wall' Was Historic Record

CLEVELAND - Everyone on the planet knows about the colossal success of Michael Jackson's 1982 album Thriller, but few understand that his solo brilliance had already arrived a few years before.

In an enormous way.

Michael's solo debut, apart from the Jackson 5 had been released in 1972. But it was the scintillating album Off The Wall that marked his beginning as a solo superstar. This week marked the 30th anniversary of that incredible album's release, August 10, 1979 and it made me reflect on just how awesome it was.

Ironically, today marks the 32nd anniversary of the iconic Elvis Presley's death. In many ways, that tragic event was a symbolic passing of the torch from the wildly popular Presley to the then-adolescent Michael, who was two weeks shy of his 19th birthday when Presley died. Michael flew under the radar between that 1977 event and the 1979 release of Off The Wall, but when that record hit stores -- it was over. America had a new superstar, all grown-up Michael Jackson...you know little Michael Jackson of the Jackson 5!

Oh man...he's all grown up and awesome!

"Don't Stop Til' You Get Enough" was an instant standout song and remains one of my all-time favorite MJ tunes. It, along with the track, "Rock With You" was another major hit and both were supported by simplistic music videos. That was the last time Michael made a simple video; everything that followed were major groundbreaking productions.

Off The Wall showcased all of Michael's expansive talents as a vocalist and songwriter and the album was as versatile as his prodigious gifts. My favorite track, "Working Day And Night" is a frenetic groove that makes one want to move and dance rapidly. The midtempo songs ("Get On The Floor"), the ballads ("She's Out Of My Life") and the dance cuts make for a breathtaking listen, and the hyper "Burn This Disco Out" is strangely addictive after a few listens.

The album will forever be known as the little brother to the gigantic Thriller, but without the opportunity that Off The Wall provided Michael, nothing after it would have been as awesome. Indeed, legendary composer Quincy Jones made his first collaboration with MJ on Off The Wall after meeting him on the set of 1978's The Wiz. Furthermore, Off The Wall sold 7 million copies in the United States (a huge figure at the time) and made history by spawning four top-10 singles in the U.S.

Yes, we all know about Thriller, the machine that dominated America a few years later. But Off The Wall should also be recognized as one of the greatest albums in music history.

It's only fair.

Convicts and Cum Dumpsters

CLEVELAND - Deante Young is one busy guy. For the 39th episode of a Date with Deante, the one-of-a-kind entertainer travels from an afternoon ghetto to a nighttime trailer park.

And of course, it's all hilarious.

Young converses about the sexual similarities between white and black women with his "distant" uncle John, then questions slut bucket Emily about her insatiable taste for sperm.

With a nice closing surprise, this clip, entitled "Working Day And Night" once again delivers Young's legendary comedic brilliance.

A Circus Of Weirdos

CLEVELAND - Every episode of the brazen web series, a Date with Deante is a daring and explicit joy ride through some of the most stunning mentalities in human history.

That brings us to the brand new, episode 38.

The clip, entitled, "Off the Wall" lives up to its name in a huge way. A homeless brigade takes over host Deante Young's porch and puts on a disgusting display of affection; a tattoo artist exposes his genitals to display a most unusual tattoo; Alicia takes great pride in explaining what her favorite STD is and John reveals that he enjoys wearing women's underwear.

Just like any other Deante Young concept, it has to be seen to be believed.

Hughes Created Classics That Defined My Youth

CLEVELAND - With the sad and sudden death of filmmaker John Hughes yesterday, I feel compelled to give thanks to the man for creating some of my all-time favorite movies.

Mr. Hughes, you rock!

Hughes got his start in the 1970's as a writer, but where his brilliance began to impact my life was in the 1983 Chevy Chase film, National Lampoon's Vacation. He wrote the screenplay, which was inspired by long trips he and his family took when he was a kid. The hi jinks and often slapstick humor (masterfully executed by the bumbling Chase) in this flick delighted me to no end. Even now, I chuckle every time I see it on television.

I understand that Hughes' most iconic work is as the director of such classic 1980's teen comedies as Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

However, I never watched those movies in their entirety but I was certainly aware of them when they hit theatres and then, VHS. I did see bits and pieces of the flicks, and my favorite moment may have been in Sixteen Candles, when the geeky Anthony Michael Hall showed an entire gym full of students Molly Ringwald's panties to win a bet.

Hughes was so awesome that he actually made Matthew Broderick (as the titular Ferris Bueller) seem cool and worth emulating.

Another of Hughes' creations, the seldom mentioned but highly entertaining 1985 film, Weird Science was super popular in my book. My cousin and I used to watch that movie all the time and we even believed that it could be possible to create a real-life, bodacious white chick by using nothing more than a computer and a little imagination. That was an awesome film and Kelly LeBrock never left my "to-do list."

It is worth mentioning that Hughes wrote and produced the wildly successful Home Alone film, which catapulted 10-year old Macauley Culkin to superstardom upon its 1990 release, and its two ensuing sequels.

No, I wasn't a follower of his most revered films, nor was I even in the targeted age range for those classic teen flicks. But John Hughes left an indelible mark on my life with his meticulously realistic work. His movies weren't designed to win Academy Awards, all they were meant to do was give a voice to a generation of developing adults.

That's not a bad legacy at all.

When Michael Jackson Became A Legend

CLEVELAND - Looking at the wide array of celebrities and musicians that have existed over my lifetime, I became very curious as to why Michael Jackson has stood head and shoulders above them all.

It happened in 1983 and 1984.

Michael was a very prodigious star as a child. He was the leader of The Jackson 5 in the late '60's and early '70's and by the end of that decade, he had become a superstar in the music industry as a result of the brilliance of his then-brand new album, Off the Wall. It was the release of Thriller in late 1982 that began him on the path towards music immortality.

But his iconic celebrity was something different.

Yes, the Thriller album is the biggest selling record in history, but there wasn't much to indicate that it was anything special upon its release 27 years ago. The lead single, "The Girl is Mine" was released in October of '82 and received mixed reviews. You'd think that a studio pairing of Michael Jackson and ex-Beatle Paul McCartney would be thought of as monumental and historic, but at the time, it was met with subdued excitement. Admittedly, neither Jackson or McCartney showcased their true brilliance on the track, even though it was still a fun song. Also, Michael was just 24 years old and had not yet become a demigod in the industry. He was a mere superstar recording with a 40-year old icon in McCartney.

The Thriller album began to dominate the charts and bolster Jackson's image beginning in early 1983. That was when "Billie Jean" was released as a single and music video. For the first time, Michael's effortless dancing and feathery smooth abilities as a vocalist were on display in unison. In the video, Michael came off as a magical and mysterious figure -- graceful and stylish as he danced his way through a desolate neighborhood while illuminating the pavement with his every delicious step. The catchy bassline of the song only furthered the clip's appeal.

Then, the "Beat It" video hit the airwaves in the Spring and once again fueled Michael's image and greatness. The zippered, red leather jacket, penny loafers with white socks and flooded pants made up his highly stylized outfit in the clip. With an actual storyline and choreographed dancing, this video continued shoving Michael deeper into America's collective minds as a wildly talented and creative genius. And none of us could get enough of this megastar.

Jackson's historic appearance on "Motown 25" catapulted him to a new level of superstardom, if that was even possible. This performance, the first public one of "Billie Jean," forever stamped MJ as the ultimate performer, an unmatched dancer and showman and received universal praise for his mastery and command of the stage and crowd. All of his trademarks were on display during this performance; the single, glittery glove, sparkly jacket and shirt, black fedora pulled down to obscure his face, then tantilizingly tossed into the audience, the leg kicks, body spins, head pops and for the first time ever, the moonwalk. Even his Jheri-curled hair was more stylish than anyone else's; "baby hair" near his temples and forming delicate sideburns and ubiquitous curls hanging down his forehead.

This is when his entire "look" became iconic and forever burned into our minds.

After that May 16, 1983 airing of the Motown special, Michael was no longer just a megastar. He was THE star; an iconic member of entertainment in his prime and only getting better. For the next several months, Thriller continued its historic sales records and stunned folks in the industry for its unreal popularity and staying power. When the unspeakably brilliant "Thriller" video debuted in December 1983, it became an instant masterpiece of history. Nothing about it was standard or customary; Jackson somehow managed to top the untoppable: himself. It was critically acclaimed from the get-go and caused the album of the same name to surge in popularity and sales for the umpteenth time a full year after its release.

Wow!

Just three months into 1984, Michael had already had a full and accomplished year. Thriller earned him an astounding 16 awards in January and February and two commercials he'd filmed for Pepsi won him even more popularity (though one of those ads famously almost cost him his life). A videocassette documentary on the making of the "Thriller" video became the best-selling in history, just another in an endless stream of accolades for the 25-year old legend. By the time he and his brothers embarked on the Victory tour in the summer of 1984, Michael had become the biggest star in the world by a mile. That legendary status was so great that it held strong even as his popularity and "approval rating" began to take major hits years later.

Indeed, as media reports of Michael became less and less favorable, he never stopped being the ultimate star. When he went on trial for child molestation in 2005, his legion of fans stood behind him faithfully and other contemporary musicians became humbled or speechless in his presence. Understand that all of this was taking place over 20 years after that amazing Thriller era. At the time of his unspeakably tragic death in June 2009, Michael's face had been redesigned so many times that he looked nothing like he did back then. He hadn't been a force in music in more than 15 years and his last album had been released nearly eight years in the past. He'd been vilified in the media for, not only the child molestation allegations for which he stood trial, but also ones he faced in 1993. In spite of all that negativity, his legend endured and he continues to be the biggest celebrity in history.

That's pretty damn amazing.

Return From The Dead

CLEVELAND - Dirty Truth Films has just released the riveting, yet hilarious 37th episode of its flagship show, a Date with Deante entitled, "Just Beat It, Part 2."

It's a story of life and death.

In the clip, a sterling conclusion to Part 1, Deante Young continues his persuasion of Tony Train Wreck to expose himself yet again to the increasingly disgusted Faye. He gets to a point where, confidence aplomb, he continually tries to pleasure himself while standing directly in front of her.

As hilarious as Tony Train Wreck is, Lil' Rick is even more interesting as he reveals all aspects of his life from sex, drugs and petty theft to a stunning reveal; he died twice after a foolish accident caused his skull to fall apart.

But, he came back to life and turned this episode upside down. It's a true "must-see."

Reverend Ike: An Iconic Member Of My Childhood

CLEVELAND - Upon learning of the death of Reverend Ike, memories of Elizabeth Young and my childhood came rushing back.

He was always on that kitchen radio!

Elizabeth Young was my grandmother. During the 1980's and early '90's, she "religiously" listened to his charged-up sermons on WABQ, a local radio station that carried many of her favorite church-style programs. Reverend Ike always preached about money and faith in God and how that confluence could produce true prosperity. My grandmother loved his passionate, vocal delivery and she would close her eyes, shake her head and lift her hands as his inspiring voice filled the kitchen.

She would exclaim, "Hallelujah!"

I also haven't been able to forget the phone number that Reverend Ike used to repeatedly advertise; 1-800-453-9000. It was supposedly the best way to reach him. I never called it...at least not for myself. I dialed it many times for my grandmother, though.

My grandmother always referenced Reverend Ike and often quoted his powerful words, and if you ever spent time around her, you'd become a believer. She died in the autumn of 1998, leaving behind tons of memories and an immortal legacy. Reverend Ike died two days ago at age 74. Coincidentally, my grandmother's would-be 80th birthday is Sunday, and she got a great gift early; the chance to finally meet Reverend Ike in person, in heaven.

She'll definitely get his autograph!

Young: The 'Master' Of Shock and Surprise

CLEVELAND - Entertainer Deante Young, a steadfast advocate of controversy by way of brutal honesty has just released the 36th episode of his racy web series, a Date with Deante.

It lives up to his reputation as the king of shock.

The clip, entitled "Just Beat It, Part 1" premiered yesterday worldwide to rave reviews, particularly for its jaw-dropping conclusion. Young continues his tribute to his fallen hero Michael Jackson with the episode's title, which also describes the contents of the story in a rather subtle manner.

John is a weird, middle-aged pervert who reveals that he's under the influence of heroin. Tony Train Wreck, the hilariously homeless racist overlooks his own racism to hit on bi-racial beauty Faye. When the dust settles, he expresses his feelings for her in a rather "hands on" manner.

In terms of sheer comedy and shock, Young is a genius that stands alone.

Palin Was An Eyesore From The Word 'Go'

CLEVELAND - As Sarah Palin stepped down as governor of Alaska yesterday, America was given temporary relief from the train wreck that was forced upon us 11 months ago.

Notice I said, "temporary."

Palin proved herself to be a joke once again by quitting her job in the middle of her term. Her explanations for the sudden move painted her choice as an upstanding and selfless decision. She said that she can now "fight even harder for [us], for what is right and what is truth."

Um, sure.

Lt. governor Sean Parnell took over the reigns as Palin's successor and with his swearing in, us unwilling victims of the year-long Palin soap opera finally caught our breaths. Her entrance into the national spotlight as Sen. John McCain's vice-presidential running mate in August 2008 was an endless and overblown saga. She went from being a national unknown to a popular fixation, then became a seemingly clueless laughingstock who was famously lampooned by actress/comic Tina Fey on Saturday Night Live. Since then, she's been a media whore.

While it is true that Palin turned heads with her sexy, naughty schoolteacher appearance, she was actually an eyesore in the proverbial sense from Day One. She initially seemed like eye candy, cleverly recruited by McCain and his team to capitalize on the millions of saddened Hillary Clinton supporters who only had Barack Obama to turn to as their choice for president after Clinton lost the democratic nomination. McCain was hoping to convert them to Republicans by utilizing Palin's appeal as a tough-as-nails woman who had a large family and was an advocate of many issues pertinent to middle America.

Soon after her meteoric rise to fame, it became obvious that she was in over her head as a vice-presidential candidate. She began to seem like a vacuous, yet witty and well rehearsed caricature of a modern day Kelly Bundy. Then there was the business of her 17-year old, pregnant daughter Bristol who was heavily attacked in the media. When McCain lost the election, Palin really began to experience a backlash from those inside the GOP. Many felt that it was her cluelessness that led to McCain's defeat, and rightly so in my book.

Once Bristol Palin and her fiance Levi Johnston broke off their wedding engagement earlier this year, the daughter took center stage while Gov. Palin drifted to the background. Bristol was criticized for being an unwed, teenaged mother. Soon after, Johnston began taking to the media to reveal inside details of his time with the Palins as well as his sex life with Bristol. This launched Sarah back into the spotlight as she defended her child and family, but always with her trademark hypocrisy.

Last month, comedian/talk-show host David Letterman drew Palin's ire when he unknowingly made a sexual joke about what turned out to be her 14-year old daughter. Palin raked him over the coals and a national backlash against Letterman ensued and persisted, even after he publicly apologized.

At the end of this 11-month Palin odyssey, I am relieved that she's no longer the governor of Alaska. Maybe now, we can care about our own family instead of being forced to care and respect hers. But I'm no fool. She won't be out of our hair for long.

She wants to be our president in 2012. Yikes!

Michael's Departure: One Month Later

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson's sudden and shocking death occurred one month ago today and it continues to be a very sad and frustrating reality for me to accept.

I love him so very much.

The memories of that day, June 25, 2009, are still extremely painful and indelible for me. In the 30 days since, I have been both delighted and appalled at the way the media has portrayed and remembered his life. Of course Michael was incredibly complicated, that tends to happen when one becomes an international star in their teens and a global obsession in their twenties.

But the vilification of Michael has been disgusting.

Many people have talked endlessly of the child molestation allegations levied against him, both in 1993 and again in 2003 (which he was acquitted of in 2005). They've talked of his addiction to pain medication and his extensive plastic surgery. They've talked of his excessive spending and subsequent debt. In short, they've cleaned out his closet.

I'm not saying these things don't matter when defining his life and legacy; they do. I just wish that the people who drag his name through the mud would also give him credit for being such a positive, selfless and inspirational figure worldwide for four decades. Just once, can his critics see his colossal achievements and financial contributions to the planet as a good thing?

In a small way, he really did "heal the world!"

A couple weeks ago, stunning video was released of Michael's ill-fated Pepsi commercial shoot during which he suffered major burns to his scalp and face. The event took place 25 years ago, but the footage has only surfaced now. If anything, the graphic nature of the video, in which flames ignite his hair as he descends a staircase oblivious to the dire situation upon him provides a disturbing visual of the severity of that long ago tragedy. It is said to have been the genesis of his addiction to pain medication, which may have, in part led to his demise.

The past month has also proven his music legacy to be immortal. Enormous sales spikes have placed many of his timeless, classic tunes at the top of the charts as grieving fans the world over have sought solace in his scintillating music. Iconic short films from 1979's Off the Wall, 1982's Thriller, 1987's Bad and 1991's Dangerous have garnered major play on television and for those of us that adored Michael, made us smile with the memories of the first time we saw those brilliant videos.

With an endless and tangled web of legal matters yet to be hashed out by his attorneys, I refuse to delve into it. Michael himself is always what's mattered to me most and his gigantic impact on my life will never be compromised or diminished.

He had his demons and his flaws just like the rest of us, but Mr. Michael Joseph Jackson was a true gift that this world received, but never deserved.

I love you, Michael.

Both Sides Are Correct In Gates Arrest Saga

CLEVELAND - I've been watching the aftermath of Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr.'s arrest for several days now and I'm very conflicted at who was "in the right."

Gates or the police?

Gates, an African-American professor at Harvard was arrested last week for disorderly conduct after an incident with an officer in his own home. Cambridge, Massachusetts Sergeant James Crowley was the arresting officer of the esteemed professor and the confrontation has ignited a national discussion on the viability of the arrest as well as racial profiling.

Many in the Black community have expressed outrage at the arrest of such a prestigious man in his own home and cite it as a tangible example of racist agendas by law enforcement. President Obama commented on the situation during a press conference on health care and famously stated that the Cambridge Police Department "acted stupidly" in their tactics which led to the arrest.

Of course, Obama came under fire for those "strong words."

The Cambridge Police Department dropped the charge against Gates, but Crowley has refused to apologize for the arrest. In fact, the department feels that Obama should issue an apology to Crowley for making his statement without knowledge of all the facts, a point that the president himself admitted to being unaware of.

I can see both sides as being right. People that agree with the arrest and feel that it was the proper thing to do are justified because of the circumstances. Gates was being a bit "unruly" and even behaved arrogantly, according to the official report. However, folks that believe that Gates was the victim of racism and should never have been arrested in his own home are justified in their beliefs due to the long history of police misconduct with minorities. It is very difficult, if not impossible for Whites to understand that even if they've been "victimized" themselves. When you're Black, it feels as though you're constantly under the cops' thumb because it has happened so much. It's easy to see how people can think Gates was just being "picked on" because of his race and status. Conversely, Blacks may ignore the fact that he didn't exactly behave like an esteemed member of the community while dealing with Crowley which may have actually led to the arrest.

Bottom line, Blacks will forever be suspicious and untrusting of cops because of their own harrowing and unjust experiences with the boys in blue, not to mention hundreds of years of pervasive racism that still exists in a more "discreet" way. White folks will always think Blacks are just grasping for excuses and crying wolf.

We all need to try and walk in each other's shoes every now and then.

Joe Jackson Needs To Be Assassinated

CLEVELAND - First of all, I salute Joe Jackson for keeping his young sons focused and dedicated enough to become international superstars in the early 1970's.

Other than that, he's a total jerk.

Jackson, the 79-year old father of pop icons Michael and Janet, as well as the other seven children has been a sketchy figure for decades. But in the aftermath of Michael Jackson's shocking death last month, he's been downright abominable. His first knuckle headed moment occurred at the BET awards on June 28, just three days after his son died. The elder Jackson seemed absolutely indifferent to the fact of his son's untimely departure. In fact, he spent more time (and was clearly more interested) in promoting his new record label. Not a tear was shed by he, and during that show's lengthy tribute to Michael, he sat stoically in the audience with Rev. Al Sharpton.

The following day, Jackson tried to defend himself against the criticism he was suddenly receiving for his seemingly lack of compassion and self-serving attitude, and ended up making matters worse. He has given one undigestible interview after another in recent weeks and continues to come off like a devilish monster that never truly cared about Michael.

Let's get rid of this clown.

Last night, Jackson appeared on Larry King Live and again, was painful to watch. His voice, when talking about Michael sounded very insincere and his body language suggests that, to him, losing his son was nothing more than a financial loss. Of course, Joe says the "right" things and never actually incriminates himself. Michael has long accused his father of abusing him as a child, but Joe Jackson continues to blatantly deny anything remotely resembling abuse of his sons. He even went so far last night as to proclaim that "Michael was raised properly" and that he "never made any mistakes in raising him."

Does this guy even believe his own garbage?

True, Joe transformed his five oldest boys into the Jackson 5 in the mid-1960's which led to their enormous popularity and dominance of Motown Records in the next few years, but his tactics were always questionable. He was a known adulterer during his boys' meteoric rise to fame and was, by all accounts except his own, a strict disciplinarian. By the time Michael evolved into an unstoppable, enormously popular solo artist in the early 1980's, he was gaining more and more independence and fired Joe as his manager. Daughter Janet did the same thing a few years later, which may have, in the case of Michael, turned Joe sour in his feelings towards his son.

In two high-profile interviews (with Oprah Winfrey in 1993 and Martin Bashir in 2003), Michael detailed his father's shameless abuse and how it also came in the form of verbal insults that led to his self-consciousness about his appearance. It is safe to say that Michael's rapid and dramatic change in appearance can be heavily attributed to Joe. During the King interview last night, Jackson painted himself as the "good guy" who always had Michael's best interests at heart.

Ironically, he was clueless when King asked the current whereabouts of Michael's body as well as what the families' private autopsy revealed. He denied wanting to transform Michael's three children into performers and seemed a bit annoyed at those questions as well as questions about Michael leaving him out of his will.

I found it funny that Joe continuously mentioned that he wasn't able to get close to his son due to the "securities that barred [him] away" from Michael. He seemed unaware that this was because Michael truly didn't want to be around him!

Joe Jackson is an illiterate speaking, disingenuous, self-serving tyrant that deserves to be assassinated. He's arrogant, deceitful and wildly out of touch. Yes, he brought Michael and the boys to the world. But he also destroyed his son Michael and scarred him for life.

Joe Jackson -- damn you to hell!

Kennedy's Death Continued Awful Family Tradition

CLEVELAND - Hard to believe that it has already been 10 years since John F. Kennedy, Jr. died in an awful plane crash off the coast of Martha's Vineyard.

But shocking as it were, the tragedy was easy to believe due to the Kennedy curse.

Ten years ago today, Kennedy, 38 at the time was piloting a small plane that he owned with his wife Carolyn Bessette and sister-in-law Lauren as his passengers. Sometime after nightfall, the modest aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean due to JFK Jr.'s disorientation with the controls coupled with the poor visibility in the sky that evening. For a short time after the crash, Kennedy's relatives grew worried when he never showed for a cousin's wedding, which he was headed to.

Hope that the three might be found alive was crushed when their belongings began washing up on shore. By July 22, their bodies had been recovered by ocean divers and a memorial service commenced the following day.

It may seem crass to say it, but Kennedy's awful death was anything but surprising when viewed against the backdrop of his families' long history of colossal tragedy. JFK Jr. had certainly known all about unspeakable grief; his father, President Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 when the younger man was just about three years of age. Four and a half years later, his uncle Robert was gunned down as well. This is all on top of another uncle of his being killed during the war many years before his birth.

Less known about the family is JFK Jr.'s aunt having a lobotomy in the 1940's and essentially living as a vegetable thereafter and JFK and wife Jackie having a stillborn child in the early '60's. More famously, another of JFK Jr.'s uncles, Ted Kennedy got tangled up in the infamous "Chappaquiddick Incident" in 1969 that nearly sent him to prison for murder. There were freak deaths of cousins in 1984 and 1997 and a high-profile rape trial of another in 1991.

In short, JFK Jr.'s 1999 death fit right into family tradition, as awful as that sounds. With such a successful, wealthy and prosperous family, they were also incredibly snake bitten and highly unfortunate.

If unspeakable tragedy comes with wealth and fame, I don't want it anymore.

Young Keeps His Word In Series' New Episode

CLEVELAND - Keeping true to his word, Deante Young has honored his lifelong idol Michael Jackson in the latest edition of a Date with Deante.

The new clip debuted yesterday.

Young, who has taken Jackson's sudden death very hard, announced just days ago that he is planning a few Jackson-themed projects and will dedicate the remainder of season 2 of his controversial web series to Michael. In the new installment, Young uses clips from past episodes and intersperses new footage to discredit two different females who essentially claim to be on the up and up.

The episode is entitled, "Remember The Time," an obvious homage to Jackson's 1992 hit single from his Dangerous album. Young also features a text overlay at the outset of the episode proclaiming Jackson as "the greatest entertainer in history" followed by a photo of Michael at age 17.

Check out the episode above.

Young Plans Michael Jackson-Related Projects

CLEVELAND - Entertainer Deante Young has announced several Michael Jackson related projects to honor the legendary performer who shockingly passed away last month.

Jackson was just 50 years of age.

Young, a lifelong fan and admirer of the fallen icon discussed his plans for the tributes during a conference call with his production company April Fool's Entertainment. "Everyone that knows me, knows how much Michael has always meant to me," said Young as he seemed to be fighting back tears. "That man shaped my creative mentality as well as my desire to stand out from the crowd. Since he was so important to my life, I am planning a documentary on him as well as a song, book and quite possibly a web series."

Young also revealed that he will dedicate the remainder of season 2 of a Date with Deante to Jackson adding that "Michael gave me the confidence and audacity to be unapologetically over the top if that's who you choose to be, and that's exactly what my web show is."

No word yet on when Young plans to release any of the Jackson projects.

MJ's Final Send-Off: Emotional, Funny and Fitting

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson was an incomparable giant during his illustrious 45-year career in the music industry that began when he was just a 5-year old kid from Gary, Indiana. He was also a son, brother, uncle and father who was relentlessly criticized and ridiculed by the media and many in the general public for the past 20 years.

Yesterday, those dichotomies met and produced an amazing and emotional tribute to the man.

Jackson, who tragically and unbelievably died on June 25 at just 50 years of age was memorialized in a star-studded farewell at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA reminiscent of a final send-off typically seen only in Black churches.

Against the backdrop of a faux church-style stain glass window, legendary musician Smokey Robinson kicked things off as he read moving statements from two of Michael's closest friends who were conspicuous by their absence; Diana Ross and Elizabeth Taylor. After a long break in the action, the Andrae Crouch Choir infused a jolt of electricity into the building with a performance of the famous gospel song "Soon and Very Soon."

That's when nearly all of the 17,000 in attendance got an unexpected treat; one final moment with Michael himself. The fallen icon was carried by his brothers into the building inside his closed casket, which appeared to be made of solid gold. It was covered with dozens of roses and was placed in front of the stage, a few feet from the front row where the grieving Jackson family sat and wept.

The star tributes were outstanding and clearly heartfelt. Mariah Carey sang Michael's "I'll Be There" and Queen Latifah reminisced about trying to replicate the "robot dance" from the Jacksons' 1970's tune "Dancing Machine" with relatives as a child. She also recited an awesome poem written to honor Michael by the legendary Maya Angelou. Lionel Richie moved the crowd with his return from obscurity and still-potent singing and Motown Records founder Berry Gordy shared his memories of first meeting a precocious yet wildly talented Michael in 1968 when he was the nine-year old lead singer of The Jackson 5.

By the way, I LOVED the fact that each of Michael's brothers wore a single, sequined glove in tribute to the iconic accoutrement that Michael made world famous in the 1980's.

Stevie Wonder, another of Michael's friends and former label mates at Motown in the early '70's touched me greatly, not so much with his awesome musical performance, but with his words before the music began. "This is a day that I'd hope I wouldn't live to see," said a visibly somber Wonder.

NBA megastar Kobe Bryant joined Hall of Fame hoopster Earvin "Magic" Johnson on stage to speak glowingly of Michael, a man they both knew personally. A teary-eyed Bryant spoke of Michael's record-setting benevolence around the world and how it earned him entry into The Guiness Book of World Records. Johnson, also teary-eyed, told a funny story about having dinner with Jackson in 1992 while discussing the former point guard's role in Michael's then-upcoming video, "Remember the Time" and being blown away that the entertainer ate Kentucky Fried Chicken.

For some reason, seeing Kobe and Magic all choked up brought tears to my eyes.

Jennifer Hudson's rendition of Michael's 1991 hit "Will You Be There?" was pitch perfect in my opinion, but the Rev. Al Sharpton brought the house down. Sharpton spoke of his friendship with Michael, which dates back to the early 1970's and hailed the man as a seminal force in race relations. He said that Michael expanded on the great progress of Jackie Robinson and MLK and himself laid the groundwork for the prosperity and widespread acceptance of such Black cultural figures as Oprah Winfrey and Tiger Woods as well as President Barack Obama.

Sharpton said that Michael "outsang the cynics, outdanced the doubters and outperformed the pessimists." He went on to mention how people like to "keep up mess instead of listening to the message." He thanked Michael repeatedly for never giving up or allowing others to "set his boundaries" and for "knocking down barriers." In what is sure to become one of the most famous moments of the ceremony, Sharpton took a stab at the media's continual bashing of MJ's unique style and eccentric behavior by speaking directly to Michael's three children from his position on stage. "Wasn't nothing strange about your daddy. What was strange was what he had to deal with."

This brought the house down.

John Mayer's scintillating guitar rendition of "Human Nature" was a jaw dropper, but the appearance of Brooke Shields brought back many memories for me seeing her accompany Michael to awards shows during his super-duper Thriller era. Shields, who became a celebrity at just 11 months old spoke of how she used to playfully tease Michael about that fact and how he took so long to get in the business at age 5. With a delightful mix of levity and palpable sadness, Shields affirmed their relationship as a true friendship, in spite of the crass comments made by the public-at-large since the '80's.

Shields said that the two child stars had to grow up very quickly and as a result became kindred spirits who laughed and engaged in mischief whenever they got together. Though she ended on a teary and sad note, my favorite moment from her was when she referred to Michael as "a genius of unchallenged ability."

Absolutely.

Michael's brother Jermaine reminded everyone that he was once (and still is) a very good vocalist as he sang MJ's favorite song, the Charlie Chaplin tune "Smile." MLK's eldest son and daughter Bernice took to the stage and both spoke with nearly the same command and substance that made their father a master orator. R&B superstar Usher absolutely nailed Michael's "Gone Too Soon" and punctuated the awesome performance by moving close to Michael's casket and emotionally touching it. Smokey Robinson returned to the stage and told poignant stories of the 10-year old Michael's prowess in singing songs that Robinson himself wrote, and actually singing them better.

Michael's brother Marlon was very grief-stricken as he spoke after a filled stage of people sang two anthemic Michael tunes, "We Are the World" and "Heal the World." He spoke of a childhood with Michael and being pulled away from cartoons to go to recording studios and asked Michael to hug their stillborn brother Brandon in heaven.

Without a shred of doubt, Michael's daughter Paris put the entire event in perspective. Flanked by her aunts and uncles, the 11-year old girl stood on stage and struggled to fight back tears and painful emotion. She recovered enough to say, "ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine." She went on to say, "I love him so much" before breaking down and seeking comfort from her relatives.

That moment alone should finally shut up the idiots that question his story with children, but it won't.

After an excellent final prayer, the service had ended and my emotions were heavily disjointed. I felt a true sense of satisfaction while also feeling very depressed that my Michael is truly gone. Yes, I know he will live on through his legendary work, but I wish that he were still here. For one day though, the man got the respect he hardly ever got in life.

For all that he gave us, he deserved so much more.

Michael Jackson: Bigger Than Sinatra, Elvis, Beatles

CLEVELAND - In the pantheon of legendary entertainers, there have been just a handful that have transcended their field of excellence and become global and cultural icons; Frank Sinatra. Elvis Presley. The Beatles.

Michael Jackson outshines them all.

As I prepare to tearfully watch Michael's memorial service along with the rest of the planet, my thoughts have shifted partially to his place in history. On the music side and in terms of sheer stature, Michael eclipses those other highly celebrated figures. During the 1940's, no one was Sinatra's equal as a musician (his film work was acclaimed somewhat) and crooner and many aspired to be like him. Presley was possibly the original pop idol-turned-fan-obsession during his historic rise to fame in the 1950's and the Beatles, most notably Paul McCartney and John Lennon were veritable heads of state to their legion of fans.

With the stratospheric success of the Thriller album and the ensuing gigantic spike in popularity of Michael Jackson, his stature ascended to unprecedented levels which amazingly expanded with the release of the Bad album in 1987. With the release of several cutting-edge and revolutionary music videos and three larger-than-life world tours between 1983 and 1997, Michael's international status and acclaim skyrocketed to epic levels. Even the rampant controversy and media infatuation with his personal life fueled his immense popularity, albeit dubiously in some cases. In any event, evidence of his expansive legend is evident in the global grief-turned-celebration that has taken place since the unthinkable tragedy of his death two weeks ago.

Michael was a global figure, transformative and incredibly relevant across all nations and ethnicities. No wonder a man that could sing like Michael did, dance like he did, give like he did and create like he did holds the regal status that he does.

He was simply the best.

Young Dedicates Episode To Michael Jackson

CLEVELAND - Entertainer Deante Young has spent his entire life thus far being influenced by Michael Jackson. Today, he dedicates the entire 34th episode of his web series, a Date with Deante to the fallen icon.

The clip is entitled, "I Love You, Michael."

"There will never be another musician with the talent, creativity, originality and heart that Michael Jackson possessed," says Young. "Yes he was controversial and eccentric, but that should never undermine the immense joy he gave to the world over a four decade span. He was a seminal figure in race relations and a relentless innovator and a true pioneer in entertainment. He was family and I will always love him."

The episode makes its debut today, the 25th anniversary of the start of Jackson's Victory Tour in Kansas City, MO with his brothers.

Michael's Autobiography: A Personal Obsession

CLEVELAND - I remember it vividly. Even though I was only 11 years old at the time of its 1988 release, I absolutely had to have this awesome book.

Michael Jackson's life story.

That book, an autobiography entitled, "Moon Walk" had been edited by former First Lady and then-current book editor Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and it was pure bliss. Released by Doubleday, it carried a $15.95 price tag when it hit bookstores in the Spring of '88, a price that my mother felt was too steep when I begged her for it.

I needed that book.

I examined the book in the store with my mouth agape at its design and the incredible contents. Several beautiful pages of color photographs of Michael in various moments throughout his illustrious career. Remember, this was during the Bad era, and Michael was still just 29 years old. One photo in particular that I loved; Michael sporting a pair of dark shades and a red and white letterman jacket. The book's dust jacket featured a close-up of half his face on the front and the other half on the back. When the dust jacket was removed, the hardcover was revealed to have Michael's iconic signature embossed in a gold-tinged design on the front.

I needed that book.

Inside the hardcover, there was a two-page photo of Michael's "accessory table" complete with his trademark sparkly glove and several jars of make-up. The book, which ran nearly 300 pages in length was also filled with pages of black and white photos and offered a behind-the-scenes look at Michael's life. One of my favorite revelations in the book was his recounting of a phone conversation that he'd had with the legendary Fred Astaire the day after the famous "Motown 25" performance. Astaire was heavily impressed with Michael's electrifying dancing and singing and called the then 24-year old megastar a "hell of a dancer." Coming from the iconic Astaire, whom Michael had greatly admired and whose legendary dancing in musicals partly inspired him, he was blown away at the sentiments of the elderly man.

I needed that book.

When I found out that my God-mother had a copy of the coveted book and was willing to give it to me, I wouldn't and couldn't stop bugging her to bring it to me. It seemed like forever, but after a couple weeks or so, she showed up at my house and handed me the book. The whole thing seemed like an enormous event, and I promptly began reading it excitedly. I took that book everywhere with me, including to school where one of my classmates stole it from my book bag in the coat room. I was close to tears, but with the "detective work" of some of my other classmates, the thief was found out and I got my book back that same day.

Man!

Thinking back on those days, I gain a wide grin. Everything Michael did was incredible and indelible to me and I greatly appreciate him for all of that.

I just wish I could find a copy of that book nowadays!

Michael's 'Bad' Album: More Ambitious Than 'Thriller'

CLEVELAND - With the stunning and historic success of Michael Jackson's Thriller album, his follow-up would have very huge shoes to fill. As it were, the album that followed didn't come close to its predecessor's success.

But it was far from a failure.

Bad, released two days after Michael's 29th birthday was extraordinary. It spawned more number one singles than Thriller and was arguably more ambitious. The title track was a less spectacular version of "Beat It" but was still a catchy tune with a thoughtful message. It's accompanying short film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese continued Michael's trademark of foregoing the standard music video format in favor of something deeper and more creative. "The Way You Make Me Feel" was and remains one of my all-time favorite tracks. Michael sounds far more "romantically" confident than usual on the song, and the video showed him as something of a "charming stalker," but undeniably smooth with the ladies.

The anthemetic "Man In The Mirror" is arguably his most important song ever. It really spoke to Michael's thoughtfulness about changing the world by changing one's own self. This was an extraordinary expansion of the concern-with-global-issues he displayed in 1985's "We Are The World." Even though Michael's duet with music legend Stevie Wonder on "Just Good Friends" was disappointing, it was still great to hear two child prodigies-turned adult icons together on the same record. Even still, it had its moments, though Michael's 1982 collaboration with Paul McCartney on the similar "The Girl Is Mine" was superior.

"Another Part of Me" was used in Michael's 1986 space-themed short film Captain EO, and was a decent song, but even better when he performed it live in concert. The album's lead single, "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" was a syrupy ballad that conveyed Michael's powerful ability to articulate love and unflinching emotion. Both "Dirty Diana" and "Smooth Criminal" are rambunctious in their tone, but are sheer classics because of their production and Michael's masterful vocal presence. The music videos for the two tracks enhance the experience of listening to the music.

The bonus track "Leave Me Alone" is a sobering view into Michael's post-Thriller world. The relentless presence of the media and paparazzi invading his life is palpable, especially in the ultra-creative music video. Add it all up, and Bad really reveals Michael to be a heavily talented, incredibly complex individual.

With the release of his autobiography "Moonwalk" in 1988, a feature-length VHS movie entitled "Moonwalker" in 1989 and the Bad world tour which spanned about a year and a half, Michael's visibility was at an all-time high and only expanded his overflowing legacy. I know it sounds crazy, but could it be that Bad was better than Thriller?

I'd say no. Bad was incredibly successful and sold a staggering 30 million worldwide. But compared to Thriller, which has sold 104 million copies globally, it was seen by some as a disappointment. I believe that Bad only did what it did because Thriller forced Michael to come bigger and badder than ever. It was more ambitious because Michael raised the bar for everyone.

But his only competition was himself.

Michael's Stature Was On Par With World Leaders

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson's shocking and sudden death has triggered an unprecedented outpouring of grief around the globe and extensive television coverage.

He deserves every bit of it.

Michael was very dear to me, but I speak with a lot of objectivity when I say this; Michael Jackson was on par with royalty and world leaders. Many people see the massive media interest and coverage as being overblown and excessive. Why would a pop star, albeit a very talented one receive such adulation and attention?

Very simple.

Michael was far more than a pop star or an amazing entertainer. His music was equal parts entertainment and inspiration. He wrote and sang songs that were meant to engender change in the world. He touched so many with his singing and dancing and could make a dying child's day by merely showing up. He was a transformative figure that millions of people grew up admiring and revering. Michael Jackson was the original Twitter; millions upon millions followed him and wanted to know what he was doing because he meant something to them. The child sensation that was Michael had found his way into the hearts of so many in the early 1970's because of his jaw-dropping talent and stage presence.

During his prime in the 1980's, the music of the seminal Thriller album captured the world's attention and became a cultural touchstone for even non-listeners of his genre of music. He made people relax and get hyper all at the same time and could make anyone smile just from hearing him speak. In short, he made enormous amounts of people happy.

Michael's iconic music videos and music and dancing and glitter glove and penny loafers became such staples in people's lives all over the world, that he truly felt like someone that we owned -- or at least, a close friend or family member that we'd "known for years."

Michael gave extraordinary amounts of time and money to worthy causes; he was proactive in trying to improve our world. He was shy, sensitive, emotional and soft-spoken and we found that adorable. Even when he exhibited odd behavior and made us shake our heads, we still held reverence for "the good ol' days" of him. People that grew angry at him and were turned off by the child molestation allegations still had their great memories of the man.

Seeing the way people fawned over him for decades internationally in remote locales such as China, Australia and Japan was surreal; here was a guy that started out as a poor kid from a midwestern American ghetto that had ascended so high that he had become an international obsession and a beloved hero of epic proportions.

Truly stunning.

Michael made the world a better place through his music and his philosophy. He made people all over the planet smile. He made us happy. He gave us some of our greatest ever memories and moments. He was about love and togetherness. Being so extensively honored by the entire planet now is the least we can do.

He was truly royalty.

The 'Cinderella' Effect of Michael Jackson's Thriller

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson had already been a star for about 13 years at the time of his Thriller album's release in late 1982.

But that album single-handedly turned him into a music legend and cultural phenom.

When I think back on the days when that album was steamrolling the music industry, I can't help but shake my head in awe. The brilliance of the music and the amazing music videos that it spawned helped to earn Michael a larger-than-life image and unmatched popularity during two entire calendar years, 1983 and 1984.

Michael absolutely owned those two years.

As 1983 dawned, the Thriller album had been out for about a month and had not yet done much for anyone to think that it would become a record-setting cultural touchstone. It was a good record, and some critics even saw it as average or even mediocre. Some questioned why "The Girl Is Mine" was released as the lead single in October '82. No one seemed to see the importance of two of the biggest music icons in music history teaming up for this rather cool song; Michael and Paul McCartney. Maybe it was because Michael hadn't yet ascended to iconic status. He was still seen by many as the child star of the Jackson 5 who happened to go on and create a good solo album as an adult, 1979's Off The Wall.

Michael soon became an international fixation and changed everyone's perception of him.

Beginning with the release of the "Billie Jean" music video in February 1983, Michael's stature began elevating at a rapid pace. The video was so special because of his incredible dance moves that were on full display coupled with the thumping, make-you-wanna-dance bassline of the song itself. MTV began playing the clip heavily after they were forced to break their typically segregated programming in favor of the public's insatiable desire for Michael's music.

When Epic Records took the unusual step of releasing the Rock-infused "Beat It" as a single while "Billie Jean" was still headed up the charts, Michael supplemented the tough song with yet another jaw-dropping music video. Powered by aggressive lyrics by Michael and a stunning guitar solo from Eddie Van Halen, "Beat It" was an irresistible track and that iconic video turned heads everywhere. Treated as a short film, the video introduced Michael's unique fashion sense as he donned his mega famous red leather jacket which was adorned with 27 zippers. Kids and adults all over the globe were soon the proud owners (and wearers) of this awesome and eye-catching jacket (even though it was released in a very cheap, pleather edition).

Sales of the album began to take off in dramatic numbers and everywhere you went, that was virtually the only music that was heard. Michael performed at the 25th anniversary celebration of Motown Records at the end of March and when it aired on NBC in mid-May, Michael's electrifying solo performance of "Billie Jean" was the talk of America. He unveiled his now trademark dance step, the moonwalk for the first time in public and provided a 5-minute clinic on spellbinding dancing. His moves were precise and fluid and his command of the stage and entire arena was astonishing.

Michael's performance was not only critically acclaimed, it was also the de facto start of Michael mania. The single, sparkly glove, sequined jacket and black fedora all became signature accessories of his. In addition to his dark shades, "flooded" pants, white socks and Jheri-curl, Michael's sense of style became must-haves and would later become historical artifacts of his prime dominance.

"Motown 25" sparked Thriller again as the album surged and surged into unprecedented sales territory. Michael released three more singles over the next few months from the album, and all of them did very well on the charts. But it was the December 1983 release of the music video "Thriller" that turned everything around forever. The 14-minute short film possessed a plot, storyline, dialogue, music score and elaborate choreography and was helmed by feature-film director John Landis instead of a standard music video director.

The epic brilliance and conceptualization of the "Thriller" film was breathtaking. Just when it seemed that the album had run its course (it was heading down the charts), this seminal work from Michael once again injected a dose of major interest into the record and it shot right back up the charts a full year after it debuted!

As 1984 dawned, all talk was centered on Michael and the once unthinkable feat that he'd just accomplished. The Thriller album had already become the biggest selling record in history with an astounding 25 million copies sold! Michael kept the brilliance up as the new year got underway and as a result, the public fell more in love with him. He predictably won 16 awards in just six weeks from the American Music Awards and the Grammys combined. Between racking up all of that hardware, he was nearly killed while filming one of two Pepsi commercials in L.A. His hair caught fire after a special effect went awry and he suffered second and third degree burns.

Of course, he recovered very well which allowed his planet full of fans to breathe a sigh of relief. A Michael Jackson doll was released to much popularity as well as a videocassette showcasing the making of his pioneering "Thriller" film. By now, Michael was heads and shoulders above every other musician in the entire spectrum of music. He was revered, adored and highly imitated. Even President Reagan gushed over his guest appearance at the White House in May '84. "Beat It" and "Thriller" jackets were everywhere. The glitter glove was everywhere. Michael's soft and articulate voice caused scores of young women to go crazy over him and his singing made them faint.

Michael and his brothers reunited for a summer tour across America beginning in July, and fans were all too excited. The Victory Tour commenced in Kansas City, MO and lasted until late autumn. With Michael having signed an enormous endorsement deal with Pepsi in 1983, they sponsored the tour which ended up being panned by many critics, but many of us fans were just giddy to see Michael perform in person.

I know I was!

When 1984 drew to a close, it ended the most prolific and unbelievably iconic era in music and pop culture history. Though Michael continued his seismic excellence and immense popularity in the coming years, he never again enjoyed the level of adulation and obsession that followed him for two remarkable years. Once 1985 hit, it was as if the previous two years were Michael's "Cinderella" moment at the Ball with the prince, and now the clock had finally and suddenly struck midnight. The analogy may be a bit of a stretch, but I believe that it has some merit.

Beginning in 1985, nothing ever felt the same with Michael. Odd tabloid stories began to surface about him and other music acts became more visible as Michael no longer had a recent album. By the time he returned with Bad in 1987, so much had changed in music and Michael himself looked very different in appearance.

In any case, I continued to love Michael equally as the years and decades progressed. I saw his behavior get more bizarre and his face become more unfamiliar. But his heart, talent and what he always meant to me remained unchanged. He was still Michael Jackson, even up until the end.

I'll always love him for giving me the "thrill" of a lifetime!

Michael: A Creative Genius And Peerless Visionary

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson was such an incredibly creative being, that he changed the face of music videos and music, rewrote the rules and raised the bar. He was the prime reason that I became a student of creativity.

And he only worked with the best.

During filming of Michael's feature film debut The Wiz in 1978, the 19-year old star met super-music producer Quincy Jones. They forged what would become a stunningly successful partnership as Michael provided the killer vocals and Jones crafted the scintillating production on three brilliant albums; Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad. Teaming with Jones, who was among the best in his field began a decades-long alliance with superstars in all genres of entertainment for Michael.

He was the master at thinking outside the box. Jones was a jazz music producer, yet Michael brought him in to produce his pop/R&B music and it was obviously a rousing success. Michael also worked on The Wiz with such legends as comedian Richard Pryor, singer/actress Lena Horne and director Sidney Lumet. During production for the Thriller album in 1982, Michael recorded songs for acclaimed film director Steven Spielberg's E.T. Storybook. He also worked with Beatles' icon Paul McCartney on two songs and one music video.

Michael's approach to his music videos for Thriller was pure genius. He never called them videos; he called them "short films." Before Michael, music videos were basic and uninspiring. Michael included storyline, dialogue and special effects to his videos. For the "Beat It" video, he brought in real-life Los Angeles gang members to give the clip an air of authenticity. He'd already worked with superstar guitarist Eddie Van Halen on the song.

For the iconic "Thriller" video, he hired film director John Landis instead of a standard video director. He'd greatly enjoyed Landis' work in the 1981 flick An American Werewolf In London so he made the pivotal choice. He used make-up guru Rick Baker, a man who was accustomed to working on movies, to craft highly realistic make-up effects for the ambitious project.

In addition to his incredible decision making with the people he worked with, he also had unlikely friends and admirers. Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy visited him on the set of "Thriller." Legendary movie actress Elizabeth Taylor was his close friend as was Liza Minelli and Jane Fonda. All older women, and presumably not interested in a young pop star like Michael, his relationships with them belied conventional wisdom as well as proved his universal appeal and amazing transcendence.

He treated his Pepsi commercials like they were music videos or even micro films. The two from 1984 were highly popular, but the ones from 1989 (a 4-part ad that placed Michael in an over-the-top storyline) were a major event. Think about that -- a commercial series that played like a mini-movie and garnered much attention.

He picked movie actress Anjelica Huston to co-star in his 17-minute film, Captain EO in 1986 and brought in Francis Ford Coopla, another iconic film director to helm what was essentially an extended, special-effects laden music video set in outer space. The king of outer space-type films was George Lucas, who brought us such classics as Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Michael enlisted Lucas to produce the 3-D short, which played exclusively at Disney theme parks for a dozen years.

For the Bad album, Michael worked with music icon Stevie Wonder and made another cutting edge short film to accompany the song. The clip was directed by another super movie director; Martin Scorsese and featured a then-unknown Wesley Snipes.

Michael also featured around two dozen Hollywood celebrities in his video for "Liberian Girl" and used a then-unknown Sheryl Crow in the video for "Dirty Diana." The 1991 release of the Dangerous album ended Michael's musical alliance with Quincy Jones, but the videos were more cutting edge than ever. He featured then-super popular child star Macauley Culkin in the clip for the song "Black or White" as well as actor George Wendt. He once again called on the services of film director John Landis to helm this project and he also utilized then-revolutionary "morphing" technology in the video.

For the video to "Jam," Michael brought in basketball giant Michael Jordan to co-star with him in the 1992 clip. During this time, Jordan's stature had grown tremendously due to his leading the Chicago Bulls to their 2nd straight NBA championship. The highly stylized short film for "Remember the Time" was set in ancient Egypt and filled with special effects. Michael brought in the then-recently retired Earvin "Magic" Johnson, another basketball deity to co-star along with legendary comedian/actor Eddie Murphy and supermodel Iman. Another acclaimed film director, John Singleton (who was in high demand as a result of his semial debut a year earlier with Boyz N Da Hood) helmed the nine-minute masterpiece.

For "In The Closet," Michael used another supermodel, this time Naomi Campbell, as the object of his affection. He was a man with limitless clout and endless influence which enabled him to bring in such A-list talent across the board.

Not to mention the fact that everyone seemed to be a huge fan of his.

Michael even did a largely forgettable video with Eddie Murphy for "Whatzupwitu" in 1993 for Murphy's Love's Alright album.

The rest of the 1990's were largely sparse for Michael in terms of creating music and videos. He did have a few other notable highlights during mid-decade; co-starring with sister Janet in the 1995 video for "Scream," working with R&B star R. Kelly, who wrote "You Are Not Alone," teaming up with rap legend The Notorious B.I.G. for a song in '95 during B.I.G.'s most popular year and bringing in acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee to direct two clips for "They Don't Care About Us" in 1996.

Michael also worked with legendary horror author Stephen King for Michael's 38-minute film "Ghosts."

In 2001, Michael released Invincible which was generally panned. In any case, he teamed up with star producer Rodney Jerkins in an attempt to create a stunning and updated version of his past sound. In the short film for "You Rock My World," Michael starred alongside comedian and actor Chris Tucker as well as the legendary Marlon Brando. Succeed or fail, Michael always came from an innovative and unconventionally ambitious place in all of his endeavors.

He even did a remix for "You Rock My World" with rap legend and mogul Jay-Z.

He was invited to the White House by President Reagan in 1984 and was honored and hailed as a man who was a valuable citizen of the world. Reagan also said that Michael's success was "an American dream come true." Michael also met with both President Bushes and performed for President Clinton. He was close friends with Princess Diana and sang for Nelson Mandela.

With Michael's surreal brilliance and incredible spirit, it's no wonder so many esteemed superstars, luminaries and dignitaries were drawn to him.

He was one-of-a kind.

Michael's Solo Debut Was An Underrated Treasure

CLEVELAND - After more than two years of dominating the spotlight as the lead vocalist for the Jackson 5, a 13-year old Michael Jackson launched a solo career that would eventually inspire millions and change music forever.

That's what makes his humble solo debut so amazing.

Got To Be There was released in early 1972 and featured the hits "Rockin' Robin,'" the title track "Got To Be There" and my personal favorite, "Ain't No Sunshine," Michael's incredible cover of the Bill Withers classic. In the final estimation, the album as a whole was considered a mild success, but Michael's vocal ability and versatility were as usual critically acclaimed.

Because of what Michael's career became during a decade of historic dominance in the 1980's, it is easy to sell this debut short by comparison. But young Michael, under the precise tutelage of Berry Gordy and his Motown Records staff crafted an outstanding debut that showcased the awesome raw talent of an international star on the rise.

And he was just 13.

20 Years Later, 'Do the Right Thing' Still 'Happens'

CLEVELAND - It was 20 years ago today that filmmaker Spike Lee released his seminal film, Do the Right Thing. Both controversial and highly acclaimed, the flick turned out to be a classic.

Maybe not in the traditional sense.

Do the Right Thing never got the credit it truly deserved. For one, Lee was establishing himself as a militant and controversial director. At age 32, he was releasing his third straight envelope-pushing film which was an ingenious piece of work due to its unflinching look into the world of racism. Indeed, the chasm between Black and White cultures and beliefs and how racial tension is almost always bubbling beneath the surface were on full display.

There was the Italian-Americans proudly extolling the greatness of Frank Sinatra and Sylvester Stallone while the African-Americans touted Michael Jackson and Sammie Davis, Jr as their heroes. The confrontation between the Black kid in the Michael Jordan sneakers and the White kid in the Larry Bird jersey. And of course, the tragically violent, yet stunningly realistic climax and ensuing interracial riot in the streets of Brooklyn, New York.

Blacks and Whites often behave the same way in real life against each other and it's the reason that we'll never make real progress; we continue to segregate ourselves from other races and act as if we're not all the same in the end. Violence is never a good solution, especially when it's racially motivated. Even the election of Barack Obama doesn't show TRUE progress because he's still so unaccepted by many people solely because of the "black" half of his ethnicity.

Lee was a genius with this film. The story continues to play out.

With Michael, The World Was Hypocritical Idiots

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson has been hailed as a beloved icon by media and fans alike during the past few days since he tragically left us. But truthfully, Michael was always torn apart by critics and the general public during his life for his every decision and even his appearance.

Typical and hypocritical.

What angers me most is how so many people judged him without realizing that he was always exactly like all of us; human. Each and every one of us was born with a talent for something that we felt confident about and excelled at. Michael was born with immense gifts and talents as a singer and dancer and when in the studio and on stage, he was a confident juggernaut. On the flip side, all of us have things about our physical appearance that we either don't like or flat out hate.

Everyone has insecurities.

We don't like our hair. Our eyes are too close together. Our nose is too big. We hate that gap in our teeth. We're too short. Our hips are too wide. Our arms are too flabby. Our skin is too dark.

If we could change those things, we would do it in a heartbeat.

Michael clearly had things about his physical appearance that he didn't like. He had millions of dollars, so he was able to make changes as he saw fit. Maybe we think that he went too far in his facial alterations, but it was his life and he had the final say on his choices -- just like all of us. Not everyone would agree with our changes either. If someone tells us we were "fine the way we are," we would still get the changes done if we had the money because if we don't feel good about how we look, no one else's opinion will matter.

Each and every one of us have made bad decisions, exhibited poor judgement and made mistakes that we haven't learned from. But whenever Michael did questionable and ill-advised things, the world crucified him. He hung out with children and got accused of molesting one in 1993. He avoided a trial by reaching a financial settlement with his accuser's family. Then a decade later, he got into the same situation but had to stand trial. Everyone talked about how dumb he was for letting it happen again, but no one ever though about the fact that many of us get burned by the same dumb choices for years in our own lives.

People say that Michael got away with child molestation when he was acquitted in 2005. In truth, all of us are unconvicted felons. We're domestic abusers, drug dealers and statutory rapists. We pass bad checks, break and enter, aid and abet, claim other people's children on our taxes, extort and blackmail. In Michael's situation, he was accused twice and nothing was ever proven. We know for a fact that we commit crimes. We only assume he did, yet he gets the criticism and we say nothing of ourselves.

Ridiculous.

We are extremely immoral. We fornicate shamelessly. We commit adultery. We are promiscuous. We abuse our children. We lie to our parents. We use profanity around children and senior citizens. Michael spends plenty of time with children trying to create a pseudo-childhood for himself since he was robbed of his own and the world thinks he's the devil. We see his tenderness and selflessness with children in his record-setting humanitarian efforts. We see him travel the globe visiting terminally ill kids and getting close to them to make their day and lift their spirits. We hear his heartfelt songs that call for making the world a better place, yet he is vilified as if none of this exists.

Unfair.

We are all addicts. We abuse drugs and alcohol. We abuse food and sex. We smoke for decades instead of using that money (tens of thousands of dollars) for more beneficial purposes. Michael gets addicted to pain killers and suddenly, he's a monster.

We spend money on clothes and shoes instead of paying bills but we dog Michael for his lavish spending. We criticize Michael and question the legitimacy of his marriages to Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe instead of focusing on our own failing relationships. We insist that he couldn't have possibly fathered his fair-skinned children because he's a black man, but many of us barely see or take care of our own children.

He was always there for his kids.

Michael was a shy and sensitive child that had the responsibility AS A CHILD to entertain ordinary people all over the world and disregard his own needs, wants and bedtimes. Most of us will never experience such pressure so therefore, the way we turn out will be the result of our life experiences. For Michael, an entire lifetime spent living up to everyone else's standards and being judged by what others feel to be "normal" was incredibly generous but also, simply ridiculous.

Being insulted and ridiculed for everything in his private life was the ultimate in hypocrisy and was tantamount to pure ignorance. If people spent more time cleaning out their own closet, the world would be a better place. Let's take the time to learn what path in life a person has travelled. Then maybe, we can try and understand the reasons why they are the way they are instead of tearing them down. Everyone is different, but not completely.

We all have so much in common.

Michael's Groundbreaking Debut: Pure Genius

CLEVELAND - Call it denial if you want, but the horrific pain of losing Michael Jackson a few days ago has caused me to desperately seek solace and refuge from unprecedented grief.

In other words, I'm trying to focus on the great times that Michael gave the world.

His first major entrance into our world took place in 1969, when he and his four older brothers (who were newly signed to Motown Records) appeared as The Jackson 5 on the then-popular Ed Sullivan Show. Watching Michael, who at the time was just 11 years old, is a real treat. His command of the microphone and entire stage is palpable and his voice is pure heaven.

The brothers performed "I Want You Back" with Michael actually being the embodiment of some of the song's lyrics; he was the "pretty face that stands out in the crowd." A born showman and the ultimate performer, Michael's gifts during this national introduction of he and his brothers are obvious and substantial.

Talk about a prodigy.

Trying To Cope With The Nightmare Of Losing Michael

CLEVELAND - My immense pain has not subsided for the great Michael Jackson, but I have tried a coping mechanism that I've previously detested.

Remembering the great stuff.

Normally, when something tragic happens that affects me greatly, I become extremely grief-stricken. That has certainly happened the past couple days and as a result, I have been so hurt and overcome with emotion that I have been sad and stone-faced most of the time.

But after watching Michael's legendary music videos and stage performances on television, I have shockingly been cheered up. Being reminded of his king-sized talent, historic accomplishments, incredible philanthropy and record-setting humanitarian efforts, I actually smiled at all of it, especially, the enormous size heart that he had. The selflessness and far-reaching generosity he consistently showed to sick, hungry, dying and underprivileged people was unsurpassed.

Yes, I still cry a million tears over this unthinkable and colossal loss. But I am so blessed that God has given me guidance and the ability to be strong and even smile a little in spite of how miserable this nightmare has been for me.

I love you, Michael.

My Michael Has Left Me

CLEVELAND - As I sit here attempting to write something worthy of Michael Jackson's gigantic impact upon my entire life, my face is covered in an ocean of tears and my heart literally aches for him. Words cannot explain what that beautiful human being has meant to me always.

There's been a death in my family.

Jackson, 50 is probably the first man that I ever loved. He was the only man that stayed in my life and never left when I was a young child. I never knew my own father, and as long as I had Michael, that was more than good enough. Memories of him are indelible -- my aunt Trina, who is nearly 10 years older than I, brought Michael to my attention in 1982 when I was just 5. By 1983, the entire planet was madly in love with him largely because of his undeniably brilliant Thriller album.

My aunt was the ring leader of his fan club.

As a child in elementary school in the early 1980's, talking about Michael was a given. Fawning over him was unavoidable and emulating him was inevitable. I drew countless pictures of him and thanks to my wonderful mother Deborah, I owned replicas of his trademark dark shades, glittered glove, "Beat It" jacket and penny loafers.

I love my mother for caring so much about what mattered most to me; Michael Jackson.

I'll never forget how amazed I was at age 6 watching the historic "Thriller" video for the first time in December 1983 on "Friday Night Videos." My cousin Demetrius had told me about this amazing "movie" that he'd seen with Michael in it and I just had to see it.

The historic 1984 American Music Awards and Grammy Awards were so thrilling to my aunt and I because they both became a showcase for Michael. He captured an unbelievable 16 awards between the two shows in just a six week span. Between those awards shows was a near fatal accident on the set of a Pepsi commercial. Michael suffered second and third degree burns to his scalp when pyrotechnic sparks shot into his then-famous Jheri-curled hair.

I remember being terrified when news of this broke.

Throughout 1984, Thriller continued to steamroll the music industry and Michael kept on captivating the world. He was the most popular guy on the planet and inspired millions of imitators. His iconic Pepsi commercial, in which he and his brothers dance in the streets with a group of children including a 12-year old Alfonso Ribeiro was of course, re-enacted by my friends and I on our neighborhood streets. I collected dozens of the Pepsi cans that were issued in the summer of '84 in promotion of the Victory Tour, which were "autographed" by Michael and his brothers.

I'll never forget his electric magic on "Motown 25." I fondly look back on the days when I tried to perform those complicated dance steps, and the days when my best friend Jermaine wore a replica "Billie Jean" outfit to 3rd grade to the awe of everyone. Jermaine also had the great fortune of playing the part of Michael when us kids re-enacted the "Thriller" video.

I begged my mom to buy me the then-super popular Viewmaster and the "Thriller" cartridges to go with it. I loved it...but not as much as the Talking Viewmaster that I got later. My aunt had dozens of posters of Michael adorning her bedroom walls. Her jackets were covered in pins of him. She sang to him in the mirror. She had scrapbooks filled with pictures and articles and owned his calendars. That is where my love for Michael came from.

One of my great memories is when my mother moved heaven and earth to find someone that had cable television (it wasn't available in the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland in 1984) so that I could watch a major event: "The Making of Thriller." A friend of hers picked us up and took us over their house to watch it. My mom was on my good list that night!

Though the horror-themed "Thriller" video scared a lot of kids, it never scared me. I only knew that I greatly enjoyed watching it and that is what inspired my purchase (with allowance) of the VHS tape, "Making Michael Jackson's Thriller."

That incredible Victory Tour was nothing short of awesome. Even though I was just 7 years old, I vividly remember going to the Cleveland Municipal Stadium on Saturday, October 20, 1984. I remember Michael on stage, breathtaking as he was, performing his incredible hits. I was armed with binoculars, but my almost 16-year old cousin Terry kept taking them from me to impress a cute girl that sat next to him. Looking back, I feel very privileged to be able to say with truthfulness that I saw Michael perform live and in person.

For the rest of the '80's, I wrote stories about him and continued to draw pictures. I tried to dance and sing like him and I begged my mother to pay for me to get a Jheri-curl just like his. I never got it, but it didn't stop me. I used to take a paper towel, soak it in water and lay it over top of my own hair. Then I would jerk my head and point my finger like Michael and pretend like the wet paper towel was a MJ Jheri-curl! When drops of water would fly from the paper towel, I would get so happy because that made it seem like real Jheri-curl moisturizer!

I also put strands of black thread on my forehead (held in place with hair grease) to simulate Michael's black curls and "baby hair."

I continuously recited Michael's parts from "We Are the World" in 1985 and I desperately wanted to go to Walt Disney World's Epcot Center to see Michael in "Captain EO" in 1986. When Bad, his follow-up to Thriller came out in August 1987, I was overjoyed. I loved his new look too; longer hair, lighter skin and outfits with buckles to replace the Thriller-era zippered jackets.

I re-enacted "The Way You Make Me Feel" music video at my 11th birthday party in 1988, just weeks before I went crazy over the release of his biography "Moonwalk." I drew pictures of the cover, which featured half of Michael's face in a close-up. I saw it in a book store priced at $16.95 and I begged my mother for it. She felt that it was too expensive, but I persisted. Eventually, my God-mother Claudine mentioned that she had a copy of it which drove me into a frenzy. She told me that she'd give it to me, so I bugged my mother to call her all the time when she wasn't coming over quick enough for my tastes.

When she finally brought it over, it was like a major event was taking place. I was ecstatic and promptly took to reading it. In early 1989, I got the "Moonwalker" VHS tape and watched it constantly. When Michael appeared on The Arsenio Hall Show as a surprise (during an interview with Eddie Murphy), I couldn't stop smiling. He earned a slew of awards in '89 naming him the entertainer of the decade.

Which was a major understatement.

With the release of the Dangerous album at the end of 1991, Michael had again surfaced with a new look. The "Black or White" video was highly cutting-edge and even though I was now a high-school freshman, I was still an insatiable Michael fan. The videos for "Remember the Time" and "In the Closet" were extraordinary, but when Michael teamed up with my other Michael love, Mr. Jordan for the "Jam" video, I was blown away.

The Super Bowl halftime show in 1993, during which Michael put on a large-scale production and performance was an instantly classic moment in his endless cache of classic moments. It was shortly after that performance that America began turning against Michael due to child-molestation allegations that had surfaced against him. I was upset about the charges, but I never believed them. Not because I was a die-hard fan, but because I paid attention to his words and actions and they made me understand his heart.

It was Michael's 1995 single, "You Are Not Alone" that enabled me to get through the utterly depressing days of my best friend Jermaine's departure. He left my side to go to the U.S. Navy which was horrible to me at the time. Michael's poignant words in the song seemed like Jermaine was speaking to me through Michael. To this day, I still get choked up listening to it and watching the video.

The rest of the '90's were an obscure time for Michael. That's one of the major reasons that I was so ecstatic when word came that he was releasing a new album in 2001.

That album, Invincible, was a financial and critical disappointment. But as I listened to the tracks on the disc, I became quite impressed. Besides the lead single "You Rock My World," there were many other songs (especially ballads) that I felt were among the best of his splendid career.

And that is saying a whole lot.

I was in disbelief when Michael was accused once again of child molestation in 2003. I saw the controversial interview with Martin Bashir and heard the stunning things that Michael said about Gavin Arviso, the 13-year old cancer survivor that eventually brought on the accusations. I concluded that Michael was not a criminal, but instead a man of occasionally poor judgement and a see-it-to-believe-it naivete that most folks just don't have at any age, let alone at age 44.

I knew the accusations were serious but in no way did I think that they would result in charges being issued and Michael would actually stand trial. It was stunning enough seeing him in handcuffs in November 2003, but actually being on trial was crazy.

To me.

It was March 2005 that the trial began, and I tuned in to any updates or conversations that I could find on television. The testimony upset me greatly, because remember, Michael was a family member in my book. When he showed up to court in pajamas in late March, I grew quite concerned and nervous. The way he looked seemed as if he was truly sick and that his life may be in jeopardy. Turns out, he was fine. One thing that I really admired about the daily trips to court was the way he dressed. While many criticized him for not wearing a "real suit," I was in awe of his meticulous style. He wore suits, but they were unique and very detailed with various designs and trims.

As always, a fashion icon.

When the jury began their deliberations on June 3, 2005, I was so nervous about a possible guilty verdict. The fact that it took ten long days to reach a verdict had me close to a nervous breakdown. My best friend Jermaine came to watch the reading of the verdict with me and when it came down (not guilty on all 10 charges), I cried and sobbed like a newborn baby. We embraced and I breathed a huge sigh of relief. I was eager to find out what Michael was going to do in the way of a comeback.

He was vindicated!

I celebrated heavily and even went as far as to persuade Jermaine and my cousin to drink wine out of Diet Coke cans with me. Reason being, during the trial, someone testified that Michael gave his alleged victims (teenaged boys) wine in Diet Coke cans and called it "Jesus Juice." I also played his music constantly, ecstatic over the verdict.

Of course, Michael disappeared after the trial. He moved out of the country and became even more scarce than normal. When 2007 rolled around, I had already been planning to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Thriller album, so I was overjoyed when Michael appeared on the cover of Ebony magazine dressed in all white and looking like royalty. They even did an extensive interview with him about the impact of that seminal piece of history.

Earlier this year, Michael announced that he was going on tour for the final time in his career. I was excited of course, but my enthusiasm was tempered because the concerts were going to be in London, not the U.S. Even still, it put a huge smile on my face to find out that the entire tour sold out in mere minutes, raking in millions of dollars.

Then, yesterday happened.

When the news came down that Michael was in very serious condition at UCLA Medical Center after going into cardiac arrest, I was horrified but in disbelief. When I rushed to my computer and television, I began to have trouble breathing and I started having pains all over. I couldn't sit still and I had a nest of butterflies in my stomach.

I cried and shook. I kept all of my fingers crossed and my heart wouldn't stop racing. At that point, nothing was confirmed but I was still restless and scared. My phone kept ringing, e-mails and text messages poured in -- and I ignored them all. Not because I wanted to, but because I was froze. I literally was incapable of taking any calls.

When Michael's death was confirmed, I lost it. I could not handle the stunning shock and sudden finality of the situation. My mind was a blur of emotions and I fidgeted constantly. I watched the extensive coverage on television and tried to force myself to calm down. I knew that I would wind up in the hospital if I didn't settle myself down. Amazingly, I managed to relax a bit, but man was I bummed.

That's putting it mildly.

I can't talk too much more about this right now because it still hurts like hell and quite frankly, always will. I do want to say this though: Michael Jackson was the greatest, most creative genius that entertainment has ever known. His humanitarian efforts globally were unprecedented and served as irrefutable proof that he was a God-fearing man, kind and caring to the nth degree.

Michael was a member of my family because he was a member of my life from the time I was first able to remember anything. I love him so very much, and a huge piece of me died with him.

Thanks so much Michael. God rest your amazing soul.

Shaq To Cavs Trade Answers and Poses Questions

CLEVELAND - Shaquille O'Neal is indisputably one of the greatest, most dominant players in the history of basketball.

Now, he's teaming up with LeBron James, the best player in the world.

O'Neal was traded today to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the 5th team of his storied pro career. His arrival, made possible by the Cavs giving up essentially nothing to O'Neal's former team the Phoenix Suns, will certainly fill a major hole for Cleveland after their stunning loss to the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals last month.

But O'Neal will enter his 18th NBA season this autumn and will be a very ripe 38 years of age before the regular season ends. He is a far cry from the dominant force he was during his early years in Orlando and prime years with the L.A. Lakers due to his advanced pro hoops age. But there is no denying his skill and still formidable talent, not to mention his championship experience, and mental toughness.

He will fit well in Cleveland. Hopefully.

James, the resident superstar for the Cavs will greatly benefit from Shaq's presence as opposing defenses won't be able to swarm him as much as in the past. Cavs center Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who has never been an aggressive player will likely become more effective as he won't be the team's only offensive big man. Anderson Varejao may become better defensively and can now play his natural power forward position.

That is, if Shaq holds up physically.

Bottom line; if O'Neal can defy age and play with the same passion, skill and fire as he did during his resurgence in Phoenix last season, and if he can avoid major injuries and play in the majority of the games, then Cleveland will challenge the reigning champion Lakers for the '09-'10 NBA.

That's a lot of ifs.

McMahon Was A Television Icon In His Own Right

CLEVELAND - Ed McMahon will forever be known and thought of as Johnny Carson's sidekick; a fiercely loyal second-banana and the creator of the iconic 'Heeeeeeeeeeere's Johnny' introduction on NBC's The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson for 30 years.

The truth is, he was also a legend.

McMahon died this morning at age 86 after spending most of this decade afflicted with a series of serious illnesses. The memory of the man is predictably being tethered to the legendary Carson, who died in January 2005. While it is true that McMahon excelled in his role as co-star to Carson's leading man, he should never be thought of as merely a tag along.

To me, McMahon was the quintessential team player and an unforgettable staple of late-night television. He knew, expertly so how to augment Carson's pitch-perfect comedic genius and endless array of goofy sketches. He punctuated Carson's punchlines and muggings for the camera with his signature guffaw and often offered his two cents to Carson's monologues, which in turn added spice to the entire production.

McMahon also hosted Star Search and co-hosted T.V.'s Bloopers and Practical Jokes, all the while being recognized as "Johnny's sidekick." It can be argued, especially amongst people of my generation who grew up in the 1980's and '90's, that McMahon's most famous role was that of the endorser of the American Family Publishers, often mistaken for Publisher's Clearing House. Visions of him with microphone in hand and knocking on some unsuspecting person's door and announcing,"you may have just won ten million dollars" are embedded in our memory banks.

Let's stop thinking of Ed McMahon as just a sidekick and give him the credit and recognition he truly deserves; that of a legend.

He will certainly be missed.

Double-Trey Day

CLEVELAND - Deante Young is famous for his shock-tinged comments and creations. His controversial web series has always been an extension of his own personality, which of course means it's pretty racy.

Such is the nature of his brand new episode.

Young's show, a Date with Deante has made it to its 33rd installment, and it's a doozy. From rape and incest to alcoholism and racism, it's all covered here!

"Just For The Shock Of It" is built to cause wide grins and raised eyebrows. Enjoy.

Simpson's Bronco 'Chase' Turned His Crime Into America's Obsession

CLEVELAND - When O.J. Simpson's ex-wife and her friend were found murdered, national interest was minimal. When he was named as a suspect, our curiosity grew. But when the former star running back led the L.A.P.D. on a slow-speed freeway chase, we became obsessed.

And he became more infamous than he'd ever been famous!

It was 15 years ago today that Simpson was supposed to turn himself in to police for those June 12, 1994 murders. Instead, he wrote a rambling "suicide note" (which proclaimed his innocence and his undying love for Nicole) and gave it to close friend Robert Kardashian to read to the cops and media.

Meanwhile, O.J. escaped.

L.A. district attorney Gil Garcetti held a press conference, broadcast nationally, and informed America that Simpson was a fugitive of the law, but that he would be caught and brought to justice. Simpson had made an unwelcomed appearance at Nicole's funeral the previous day during which her mother asked O.J. point blank if he was the murderer of her 35-year old child.

Simpson replied by saying, "I loved her too much."

Shortly after his suicide note was read on television, O.J.'s close friend Al Cowlings' white Ford Bronco was spotted going about 35 miles per hour on the 405 freeway heading towards L.A.'s Orange County. It was soon revealed that O.J. was hiding in the back with a passport, $8,000 in cash, a disguise and a loaded gun pointed at his own head. Cowlings, popularly known as "A.C.," was in contact with law enforcement via a cell phone inside the SUV. He warned them to stay away as Simpson was armed. Soon, a huge caravan of police cars were in slow pursuit of the Bronco as the situation grew into an historic event with potentially tragic consequences.

Of course, as soon as word travelled that Simpson was in the Bronco on the freeway, media attention went through the roof. Nearly two dozen helicopters took to the air to cover the surreal event, an apparent meltdown in real-time of one of the most beloved sports heroes of his generation. Many of O.J.'s friends and colleagues called in to various media outlets that were covering the rapidly unfolding story and implored him to surrender instead of committing suicide. With 95 million people watching at home on television, the public's marginal interest morphed into a full-fledged fascination.

When the dust settled at around 8PM PST, Cowlings led the caravan of police cars to Simpson's lavish Brentwood estate on Rockingham Drive and emerged from the vehicle with his hands up. Simpson was allowed to go into his home for a short time, then he was taken into custody. The entire time, a multitude of news cameras followed each and every moment, particularly from an aerial view.

The scope and impact of the "chase" was unprecedented. Game 5 of the 1994 NBA Finals was interrupted in favor of coverage of Simpson's stunt. Scores of people on overpasses on the 405 freeway somehow received word of O.J.'s scenario and they actually made signs supporting him.

A few signs read, "Run O.J. run!"

O.J. entered a plea of "not guilty" three days later in his first court appearance and less than three weeks later, Judge Kathleen Kennedy-Powell stated that there was ample evidence to force Simpson to stand trial for the double murders. Of course, the trial began in January 1995 and received an enormous amount of media coverage. It became an international fixation and turned O.J. into the most hated man on the planet with each negative detail revealed in court about him and his relationship with Nicole. The trial lasted nearly nine months, culminating in a truly shocking conclusion.

Simpson was found "not guilty" on all charges!

Though the trial was dubbed "the trial of the century," it was that iconic Bronco chase that truly turned O.J. Simpson into a hated, infamous criminal. It is the singular moment that captured America's attention and transformed a Los Angeles double-murder into a major television series.

Sad but true.

Here we sit, 15 years later still stunned by that Bronco chase. As O.J. Simpson sits in a Nevada prison (on unrelated charges), you really have to make the connection of that '94 moment and his current status.

I wonder if he now wishes that he killed himself that day.

Letterman-Palin Story Is Grossly Overblown

CLEVELAND - In today's media-filled, Internet everywhere world, everything gets over reported, mega sensationalized and overreacted to. The current public outcry against comedian and talk-show host David Letterman is no different.

Will this story please go away?

Letterman, 62 has been under a maelstrom of controversy for over a week now as a result of a "tasteless" joke he told about Governor Sarah Palin's daughter last week during one of his opening monologues on The Late Show with David Letterman. In the joke, the legendary host referenced a New York Yankees game that the governor attended with her daughter.

Letterman joked that Palin's daughter got knocked up during the game by Yankees star Alex Rodriguez, a comment that has since appalled and disgusted many. As it turns out, Palin was at the game with her 14-year old daughter Willow as opposed to her 18-year old daughter Bristol, who recently gave birth to a child out of wedlock. Letterman apologized, tongue-in-cheek twice last week, then gave a long and more serious mea culpa last night on his show. He has maintained that he incorrectly believed he was telling the joke about the older daughter as opposed to the minor child.

Of course, the holier-than-thou mentality of Sarah Palin has taken center stage since the incident. She has repudiated, denounced and vilified Letterman in the press and has insinuated that he perpetuates sexual abuse of children. She's accused him of making a crude and perverted joke about a child on purpose and has said he's "not to be trusted" around her daughter.

Um, okay.

Palin's righteous indignation is sickening. As a parent, I totally understand her anger and outrage and even though I cross the line into crude and immoral territory constantly on my web series, songs and books, I get that Letterman's humor was over-the-line in this case. It isn't cause to label him as being morally corrupt or a dangerous child sexual predator. It was an error in judgement by a man who has made his living as a comic for some 30 years. In all that time, anyone is bound to have a few foot-in-the-mouth moments.

One of CBS' sponsors have pulled their advertising. There are organizations in place that are calling for Letterman to be fired from his 27-year hosting gig. Really? This is truly not that serious; Don Imus' 2007 misstep was in-line with who he had been for decades. It represented his character and public persona.

This incident is in no way representative of Letterman's character. It doesn't make it right, but it should count for a lot. The man apologized and his offense was certainly not egregious.

Let's be done with this and move on.

Bryant's 4th NBA Title A Product of His Evolution

CLEVELAND - In team sports, the greatness of a superstar is a very funny thing. They have to integrate their brilliance into the framework of the team in order to truly prosper. Kobe Bryant now knows this quite well, and that's why the L.A. Lakers are the 2008-09 NBA champions.

Congratulations Mr. Bryant and company.

Bryant, 30 earned his first ever NBA Finals MVP trophy moments after the Lakers dismantled the suddenly mis-firing Orlando Magic, 99-86 in capturing the series, 4-1 in central Florida. It was the 15th NBA title for the Lakers franchise and the 4th of Bryant's 13 season tenure, but it is the one championship that will define his scintillating career. The first three championships were won during Shaquille O'Neal's reign of NBA dominance; 2000 to 2002.

O'Neal was the impossible-to-guard-in-the-paint behemoth that co-starred with a young and petulant Bryant on those Lakers title teams. Because of the incredible edge (and his starring role on the team) that O'Neal's presence gave those L.A. teams, Kobe never received true credit for having already earned three championships coming into this series.

That is no longer the case.

It is true that Bryant came into the league in 1996 as the mega-cocky, ultra talented star of a high school team. He had delusions of becoming the greatest player in NBA history and shamelessly emulated the great Michael Jordan in nearly every aspect upon his entrance into the pros. He even sought out Jordan for advice during a Bulls-Lakers matchup in December 1997, a game in which 19-year old Kobe scored 33 points to 34-year old Jordan's 36 points.

Bryant seemed to have it all too easy. He joined an NBA team that was stacked with major talent, had the luxury of sitting the bench and learning from his polished and experienced teammates, got voted as a starter on the 1998 NBA All-Star team even though he didn't even start for his own team. He also had the great fortune of getting to play against single coverage because the opposing teams would be so focused on corralling Shaq in the paint.

His talents flourished rapidly, but his game remained immature and his palpable arrogance and defiance began to compromise his extensive talents. True, he was a dominant athlete and scorer, but as an overall leader and teammate, he was not at all impressive.

So, the Lakers won their trifecta of championships with O'Neal soaking up loads of glory for the accomplishments. That didn't sit well with the hyper competitive Bryant, who went into the '02-'03 season with a focus on dominating on offense. His midseason scoring burst earned major headlines as he averaged over 40 points for a 13-game stretch that evoked memories of MJ's early years in Chicago.

As proof of Kobe's mentality back then, he turned his final meeting with Jordan (in MJ's stint as a Washington Wizard) into a personal showcase in a transparent attempt to show he had become what Michael used to be -- the ultimate offensive weapon. That March 28, 2003 game saw Bryant fire in 42 points in the first half, then finish with 55 to Jordan's pedestrian 23. What Kobe seemed to ignore was the fact that he was a spry 24 years old while Jordan was a decade past his prime at age 40. Not to mention the fact that MJ had long before that proven to be a true winner and the quintessential leader.

Bryant's 30 points per game scoring average that season was the first thirty-plus of his career. It seemed to be a slap in the face to Shaq's importance, who put up 27.5 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. He also shot 57% from the floor, which was proof that he was the smartest choice for volume shooting on the team. The Lakers lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the conference playoffs that season which caused tears from Bryant, and prevented the rare "4-peat" for L.A.

That summer, Kobe got tangled up in a stunning rape case in Colorado and his image took a giant hit. Already he was known as the selfish and defiant superstar that wouldn't defer more to O'Neal as he should have, but now he was being labeled a criminal and rapist. One thing he admitted to being was an adulterer, which didn't exactly win him any brownie points.

The Lakers drastically made themselves over in the 2003-04 season, adding former all-stars Karl Malone and Gary Payton to the team which proved disastrous. The team never clicked together and though heavily favored to win the 2004 NBA title, they lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals. The Shaq and Kobe soap opera reached a fever pitch during this time and their disdain for each other became more and more apparent. By the following season, three of the four stars had gone elsewhere.

Bryant remained.

It seemed as if Kobe had finally gotten his wish; now in his 9th season, he was in sole control of his own team. O'Neal was in Miami and Phil Jackson retired in the offseason. Now he could prove that he was the man all along and show off! As it turned out, the 2004-05 season was easily the weakest of Kobe's career. The Lakers won a paltry 34 games, they missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade and Bryant missed 16 games to injury. Meanwhile, O'Neal's impact in Miami was immediate as he had an MVP-style season and led the Heat to 59 victories.

The next two seasons saw more frustration for Bryant. In the 2005-06 season, he dominated on offense like few others ever have in NBA history. In December, he scored a gargantuan 62 points in just three quarters against Dallas (who had just 61 as a team after 3) then registered the 2nd highest single-game point total in history with an 81-point explosion on January 22, 2006 v.s. Toronto. He averaged a career high 35.4 points on the season, the highest average since Jordan's 37.1 ppg in 1986-87. Awesome as it may have seemed, his stratospheric scoring was counter-productive to team success. It also made the Lakers a non-contender and with a mediocre 45-37 record, they scared no one.

The Lakers got bounced in the first round by the Phoenix Suns forcing them to look to the following season for hope. Kobe once again averaged over 30 (and authored several more 50 and 60 point games), but the 2006-07 season ended with yet another first round exit to the Suns.

This is when Bryant had had enough. During the Lakers' 2007 offseason, he criticized team management, repeatedly requested a trade and publicly disparaged teenaged teammate Andrew Bynum. Going into the 2007-08 season, Bryant's departure seemed guaranteed.

Then, a funny thing happened.

The Lakers began to play very well, Bynum greatly improved and Kobe seemed very pleased. Approaching midseason, Bynum went down with an injury, but Lady Luck took up residence in the Lakers front office in the form of an unbelievable trade with Memphis for all-star Pau Gasol. The Lakers gave up absolutely nothing but a perpetual bust (Kwame Brown) to acquire a man that had been outstanding his entire career. He had averaged 19 points and 9 rebounds for the Grizzlies prior to being shipped to L.A. This was seen league-wide as a major heist and all but paved the way to a Lakers NBA title.

As L.A. ran through the Western Conference playoffs, Bryant's rebirth was evident. In just a matter of months, his firm trade demands had vanished and were replaced by obvious joy and satisfaction. That joy turned into vengeful focus after the made over Boston Celtics trounced them in the 2008 NBA Finals. After a 39-point shellacking in Game 6, Bryant vowed that 2009 would be very different.

And it was.

In spite of the grandiose hoopla surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers and their megastar LeBron James, the Lakers stayed consistently efficient. They marched to a 65-17 record, second to the Cavs and went into the playoffs as the clear favorite to emerge from the West. All season, hoops fans seemed to anticipate a Finals showdown between Bryant and James, the top two stars in the game. As it were, the team that the Lakers faced in the Finals was the same team that shockingly manhandled the Cavs out of the playoffs.

LeBron had been named league MVP, and in many circles many felt that he had eclipsed Bryant as the game's pre-eminent talent. In any event, the Lakers mowed down every opponent out west, then shut down Orlando's vaunted 3-point attack with ease. The Magic's brick house star, Dwight Howard was rendered ineffective for much of the series and was exposed as having a very limited offensive arsenal. Through it all, Bryant was magnificent as he averaged 32.4 points and 7.4 assists in the series, a five-game triumph that saw the 13-year icon wear a perpetual scowl on his face. His focus was so singular, it was hard not to root for the man even if you hated him as a player or person.

Of course, Phil Jackson made history as he became the first coach in NBA history to win 10 NBA championships. Forget the talk of his job being a breeze since he coached Jordan, Scottie Pippen, O'Neal and Bryant. This guy can truly coach. But as amazing as Jackson's accomplishments have been, this game, this series and this season belongs to Bryant. It had been seven long years since he last won a title, and the aforementioned trials and tribulations he has endured has matured him. Yes, he still knocked in 32 plus per game, but he plays the game in a very selfless way these days. He doesn't mind being a decoy or facilitator now. He relishes moments when his teammates make major plays and earn the glory such as Derek Fisher's dagger 3-pointers in Game 4 or Trevor Ariza's consistent excellence all series long.

It is this understanding of the marvelous benefits of the system that has allowed for Bryant's evolution. He has ascended closer to the top of the NBA Mt. Rushmore by being less of an individual and more of a cog in a machine.

Let's give Kobe Bryant his due. He is officially a legend.

Jordan's Final Masterpiece Almost Didn't Happen

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan was the quintessential master of the miraculous moment on pro basketball courts all over the world. His final NBA championship was captured with his trademark excellence and that indelible moment is among the most iconic in sports history.

And it all happened 11 years ago today.

So vivid are my memories of that tension-filled Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals. The Chicago Bulls ended up winning the game in dramatic fashion, but their path was nearly derailed many times that season, which had been dubbed "The Last Dance" by head coach Phil Jackson. It was all but guaranteed that the five-time championship team would be dismantled after the season, win or lose and that the legendary Jordan would once again step into retirement. He was a ripe and worn 35 years old, still the league's best player, but certainly losing his enormous powers little by little.

All-star Scottie Pippen missed a whopping 38 games during the regular season to surgery and the Bulls stood at a very unremarkable 12-9 after 21 games. Jordan had to assume much more of the overall burden of lifting the defending champions to their accustomed heights, which at his age was a ton to ask.

But he was up for it.

After a whirlwind journey through the 1997-98 season, which began with preseason games in Paris, France and played out like a nightly farewell rock concert for the incomparable MJ, the Bulls managed to tie the Utah Jazz for the best record in the NBA at 62-20. Since the Jazz beat Chicago during their two regular season meetings, they won homecourt advantage throughout the entire postseason.

The Bulls went into the playoffs with dreams of winning their 6th NBA crown of the 1990's. They pushed aside both New Jersey and Charlotte before a challenging matchup with the Indiana Pacers in the East Finals. The Bulls took Games 1 and 2 at home, then lost two barn burners in Indiana by a total of four points. Chicago murdered them in Game 5 for a 3-2 series lead, but the Pacers withstood Jordan's 35 points in Game 6 to win by three, forcing a rare (for the Bulls) Game 7 in Chicago.

Jordan guaranteed a Game 7 victory.

Indiana not only jumped out to an early 20-7 lead in Chicago, they also led by two in the closing minutes. Making matters worse, Jordan was mired in an awful shooting nightmare. He shot just 9-of-25 from the floor, but managed to manufacture points down the stretch. He was also the master facilitator and played a great floor game with 9 rebounds and 8 assists.

The Bulls won barely, 88-83 to advance to the Finals for a rematch with a vengeful Utah Jazz, who had lost the 1997 NBA Finals to Chicago in six games.

Utah grabbed Game 1 in overtime, marking the first time the Bulls lost the first game of the championship series in 7 years. The loss set off a wave of panic, I in particular was overwhelmed with nervousness. Game 2 came down to the wire, but with key plays down the stretch from Jordan and Steve Kerr, Chicago earned the victory in Utah for a 1-1 split heading home.

The Bulls authored a historic rout in Game 3, thrashing Utah by 42 to take a 2-1 lead. Game 4 was yet another nip and tuck affair, but MJ's 34 points led the way to a four point victory and a 3-1 lead.

Game 5 had been branded as Jordan's final home game ever and courtside seats sold for as much as $10,000. It was supposed to be the game that the Bulls won their title to send MJ out in a blaze of glory. It was supposed to be the first time Chicago won all three games on their homecourt when they were without homecourt advantage (as in '93 vs Phoenix).

None of those things happened.

Both Pippen and Jordan shot the ball miserably. Toni Kukoc was the only ray of hope as he scored 13 points in the first quarter. He ended up shooting an unreal 11-of-13 from the floor and had a team high 30 points. Pippen was a putrid 2-of-16 for six lousy points, but was enormous in other ways; he had 11 rebounds and 11 assists. Jordan bricked his way to a 9-of-26 showing in scoring 28 points.

Karl Malone was the beast of all beasts in this game as he broke out of a series-long "slump" by scoring 39 huge points, 17 in the pivotal 3rd quarter. In spite of Malone's dominance, Jordan had a chance to win the game as he shot a 30-foot shot with 1.1 seconds left that missed everything.

This set the stage for that historic Game 6 in Utah. The Jazz came out tough in that game and never backed down from the Bulls. Both Malone and John Stockton played their usual roles, scoring and passing and running their venerable pick and roll. Chicago's Pippen injured his back on the first play of the game and was hampered for the rest of the night.

Jordan came out blazing. He scored 16 in the 2nd to finish the 1st half with 23 points, but the Bulls looked as if they were going to need more than him if they were going to win. Pippen managed 26 minutes, but he was needed for maybe another 15. The Jazz were getting a star performance out of Malone and steady contributions from Stockton and Jeff Hornacek, not to mention solid efforts from the bench. For Chicago, only Kukoc stepped up offensively, but even he scored just 15 points. In any event, no one else on the team reached double figures.

The 4th quarter wound up being a brilliant showcase of Michael Jordan's will and determination. After his efficient 9-of-15 shooting start, he went into a tailspin and made just four of his next eighteen. In the early minutes of that final period, his career-long knack for creating heroic basketball moments seemed coated with age, exhaustion and an overmatched reality. He was running on fumes and missed five straight shots as the game drew to its final few minutes.

But with his resolve at an all-time high and his teammates in dire need of another Michael Miracle, he drove purposefully and continuously to the basket to overcome his non-existent outside shot. He was fouled every time and after an uncharacteristic showing at the line in the first 3 quarters (4-of-7), he hit on all eight of his 4th period foul shots.

Inside three minutes to play, Jordan exhibited his outstanding defensive I.Q. when he intercepted a Utah outlet pass, which led to another drive to the basket and trip to the free throw line. He made a pair of foul shots with 59.2 seconds left to tie the game at 83. Utah got the ball back, Malone switched roles with Stockton and found him with a crafty pass and before you knew it, Stockton's 3-pointer put the Jazz up, 86-83 with 41.9 seconds left.

After a Bulls timeout, Jordan drove hard to the baseline and scored on a beautiful layup over Antoine Carr at 37.1 seconds to draw the Bulls to within one. Back on defense, the Bulls took their positions on the floor in hopes of preventing another crushing Jazz score. This is where I was tremendously filled with nervousness and had a tummy full of butterflies. Of course, as Malone got the ball on a post up ready to make his move to the basket, Jordan came from the weak side and stole the ball from the Jazz superstar, which put an enormous smile on my face.

This is the moment that I remember with incredible jubilation and acuity. As my best friend and I watched this moment unfold on television at a sports bar, he put his head down on the table and said, "I know [he's] going to make it." I felt the exact same way, but I was still super tense because I just didn't want Michael to fail. As he confidently brought the ball upcourt while surveying the defense of the Jazz, the clock ticked inside of ten seconds and the scoreboard showed Utah to be ahead, 86-85.

Game 7 in Utah was seconds from being a reality.

MJ, met at the top of the circle by Jazz swingman Bryon Russell, went into his move as he dribbled with his right hand as if he were going into the paint. Russell stayed right with him, then Jordan cleverly nudged him surreptitiously with his left hand, went into a crossover dribble, stepped to his left as Russell drifted the opposite way, and rose up for an unobstructed jumper from 20 feet out.

All net.

As Jordan stood like a perfectly sculpted effigy with his right arm raised in a textbook follow-through motion, the basketball lay on the court after its winning trajectory had carried it and this moment into the history books. The clocked showed 5.2 seconds remaining, the scoreboard showed the Bulls ahead, 87-86, the crowd showed awe and shock and Jazz coach Jerry Sloan scrambled to devise a strategy to overcome this stunning 40 seconds from Michael Jordan.

Stockton got the inbounds pass and fired up a too-close-for-comfort 3-pointer that bounced off the rim and backboard at the buzzer. The Bulls had won the NBA championship for the sixth time in eight seasons!

It seemed like a million people mobbed Jordan on the court after the title had become official. Phil Jackson gave him a huge hug and said, "MJ, oh my God that was beautiful!" For the legendary Michael Jordan, it was his seminal moment -- his flash point in an epic NBA career that eclipsed the highest of expectations by an enormous margin. He finished with 45 points, 16 in the hard fought 4th quarter and a bucket of tears welling in his eyes. He knew this incomparable dynasty had reached its end.

Jordan's 33.5 points per game helped him earn his 6th NBA Finals MVP award as Chicago stamped itself as the team of the decade with its "repeat three-peat" as Commissioner David Stern called it.

I will never forget June 14, 1998 and what Michael Jordan did that day. He proved in amazing fashion that talent will get you very far, but your determination will be what seals the deal.

That's why he's the greatest.