Obnoxious
by William McCray, III "The Publicist"

 

To some, the celebrity-soaked, guard-around-every-corner, lines-out-the-door events, with the strong tinge of exclusiveness for good measure, can appear to most as a bit overwhelming, abhorrent, or basically just, obnoxious. To others, this milieu is fodder for establishing and articulating agendas, for promoting rising influential stars, and rallying support around note-worthy and critical causes by creating a “buzz.” This, too, can be obnoxious, the William McCray way that is.

ob'nox'ious adj. in your face, thought-provoking expression that is undeniable; a person, object, or topic so objectionably hot that it must be called out or examined through popular eyes; a captivating description that always verifies the true essence of style, class, and intelligence.

Obnoxious: 3.17.05
Obnoxious: 3.3.05

WHO & WHAT



 



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Resource Guide
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kebo's list of what's IN

Castleberry
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kebo's list of what's OUT

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Artist Radcliff Bailey
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Past Hushbox Experiences


science dropping on fresh faces, movers & shakers, who have stopped talking and started doing.

Obnoxious
3.17.05


It brings me great pleasure to share with you that yours truly, William G. McCray, III , "The Publicist" has been identified as a man with international style. One of only three men featured in the "Men of International Style" Paris Menswear Show Fall 2005, I am among Alain de Foucaud , Partner and international business attorney for Lamb, LeBoeuf, Greene, and McCrae International Law Firm. Alain Azouaou , France Ambassador is France's highest representative to the emirate of Qatar. I was most shocked and at first I thought the International Fashion Reporter was joking so I told him sure I would participate in the interview and meet the other gentlemen.

It was then it became clear to me that he was serious wanted to really interview me. Commenting on my hair, choice of bow ties, suits, and shoes he liked the way I dressed and admired my class. Marcellous Jones conducted a great interview; he lives in Paris and is a writer for Fashion Windows Magazine. I wanted to share this with you because daring to be different and having the confidence to carry your look will make you stand out in the crowd.

I was always told to not wear this or cut my hair and now I am glad I never did. Well, he has had a complete and total nervous breakdown. It should be clear to the world that Michael Jackson is not mentally or emotionally strong enough to withstand this trial. Personally I thought that he would have snapped long before now. He seems to not really understand how serious of a situation that he is in, thus he does not comprehend his being Michael Jackson does not matter in Judge Melville's courtroom.

He will have to be on time and appear everyday like any other citizen. For the first time in his life his celebrity status does not matter, which has cause a great inner conflict since he has been a star all of his life. It was absolutely embarrassing to have the allege King of Pop appear for court in his pajamas. What was the matter with his father? Some of the many bodyguards, staff, or family member should have quickly got him in to some street clothing. Michael could have arrived in causal attire rather then what he wore to bed.

I wonder did he really try to help this boy and his family and so many innocent, yet questionable actions are being misrepresented as the attorneys argue their case before the court. There is not one African American juror in the box, which will work against him in the long run.

In most cases African Americas are very forgiving of our entertainers that fall from their thrown of grace. Mental Illness is not discussed enough or is help found until after something happens or the behavior becomes questionable to the point it can no longer be hidden. I do not think we have seen how far out he is going to really act during this trial as of yet. However, has anyone ever sought the help of a professional prior to something tragic happening, counseling would have assisted them in a significant way prior to them hurting themselves or someone else. His parents could tell something was wrong with their son long years ago.

Often lines are crossed or some behaviors can be questioned when examined by individuals that are looking for a negative. Sleeping in the bed of a mother or father is common practice in homes throughout the nation. However, was Michael acting in a capacity that he should not have for this child and his family? The Jackson's consistently prove to be one of the greatest disappointments in the African American community. A family that was once known for producing great music constantly behaves in an embarrassing and questionable manner at best.

Shaquille O'Neal is continuing to make us proud on and off the court. It is no need to even mention the great achievement of the 33 year old 7-1, 325 pound basketball star reaches while playing the game. However, this grad student is giving back while achieving his goal. I do not think I would want this guy to walk up behind my car in a routine traffic stop, but someday somewhere it just might happen. O'Neal is a certified police officer and graduated from the police academy in Los Angeles in 2000 while he was playing for the Lakers.

I am glad he will continue to pursue his goal in the Criminal Justice arena, but not in the line of fire. The basketball star will work with the Operation Blue Ridge Thunder task force, part of the Justice Department's Internet Crimes Against Children program, and the Safe Surfin' Foundation, which educates children about he dangers of online predators. Shaq will attack Internet sexual predators that seek out children online. Although, it was tough to reach him the Bedford County Sheriff, Mike Brown was persistent and once he finally reached the NBA Star and got an opportunity to share the program with Shaq.

Not waiting until the season is completely over he has already begun some training over the Internet. They say Shaq is computer savvy, but I bet it is funny to see that big dude sitting at a computer typing. Hats off to you Shaq ! He is going to do something really positive; this effort will work to make a difference in the lives of children in America.

For many years the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has boasted of being the oldest and largest civil rights organization in the nation. Soon the statement may read as was and not as is, I told you that Kweisi Mfume was resigning to get out of the line of fire. The IRS has started a probe of the financial records of the organization, as a result of the statement made by the Board Chairman, Julian Bond, last year about President Bush.

What should have been a right to free speech may cause the loss of the 501c3, Non-Profit status to be revoked? It seems that Bond wrote a check that he could not cash when he thought he would go up against the Federal Government last year. It is said the NAACP is $5 million dollars in debt. Poor leadership can be said to be the blame for such an administration that would potentially cause the organization to go under. The 50 member board has agreed to start a campaign to recruit 100 members at $750 dollars for Silver Life Membership that would bring in $3.75 million.

Some young people question the importance of the organization and it's relevance to the African American community today. The NAACP is critical and must remain an active part of our community. Far too often we think of the NAACP when something happens or not until something happens do we seek support of the civil rights organization. The most recent occurrence of the NAACP was in the Marcus Dickson case in Georgia. The organization is a critical part of the continued fight for racial equality in America. However, the leadership must be equipped, fiscally accountable, and responsible to carry this torch. It is more to it then putting on a Tuxedo and going to the Image Awards and having a good time.

People, you have to watch your mouth when you talk to the media. Often I hear of celebrities or high profile person say I did not say that or this is not how I meant that when they read an article or watch an interview when they may have commented on something or said something that can be taken the wrong way. Allegedly this is what happened with Kanye West who has finally spoken out about the rumor that he was to be in Playgirl magazine.

The three Grammy Awarding artist that made it cool to be into Hip Hop and know Jesus with his "Jesus Walks," made headlines when it was reported that he was going to be on the cover and a centerfold in the risqué magazine. However, he says that he meant that artist should be paid to appear on the cover of magazines because their status boosts the sells and subscriptions. Well, Kanye you are great at what you do but, it is better to be thought of as a fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt. You all know that is another good one from my Big Momma. Unfortunately, that has been a tactic for some rags as they are refereed to in the publication industry that pays people for a story.

However, that is not true journalism. This is the perfect example of the need for a great publicist like me, it is more then obvious that he needed some coaching and a good PR person would have caught the story before it went to press. It would have saved the client any unwanted embarrassment. His comment was that magazines like Playgirl offer money and it is with good reason Kanye . I am glad to know that he will not be wearing his birthday suit in any upcoming issue.

Drug Dealers and Killers.....I guess it was all just a PR stunt after all, I am sure you have heard by now that 50 Cent and Game have reconciled and are now friends again. Still not sure if Game will return to the G-Unit Family , but it seems that all the negative talk and potential East/West Coast war will end. I am clear that I was correct when I said that Interscope Chairman, Jimmy Iovine was not going to have a war on his hands. It was reported that he as chairman of the company that distributes both 50 Cent and Game's music was calling for an end to a potential loss of life.

All of this happened on the anniversary of the death of Notorious B.I.G., who is believed to have been killed as a result of a similar East/West Coast war. The announcement was made at the Hip Hop Summit Action Network press conference. Russell Simmons, Chairman of HSAN, said the reconciliation was sincere. "In the shadow of the untimely death of Bigge —today marks the anniversary of his death—we are here today to show people we can rise above the most difficult circumstances and together we can put negativity behind us," 50 Cent said as Game stood off to the side behind him.

Game addressed the audience with his apology to the fans, the radio stations, and their label for their actions and stated. "I am almost ashamed to have participated in the things that went on the past couple of weeks, I'm here, I'm apologetic," Game said. Both of the men presented Dr. Walter Turnbull , founder of the Boys Choir of Harlem , checks—one from 50 Cent for $150,000 dollars, and one from Game for $103,000. The choir was started in 1968 and has been facing tough times. The two rappers have been the first to step up to the plate to aid the great organization. While he was in a mood of generosity 50 Cent announced the launch of his new foundation, the G-Unity Foundation, Inc..

I got a chance to talk to Game on Saturday after the statement earlier in the week. I told him that it was nice to meet him in person and that he did not seem like such a bad guy after all. After sharing laughs I asked him would he return to G-Unit and was it all just a PR stunt? "See there you go, it is people like you in the media that will not let things go. It is over I love Dr. Dre , he gave me a chance and 50 is my boy, things are all good now," he said. I told him that I was not being messy, but wanted to know the truth as much as possible. "I cannot answer right now on if I am going back to G-Unit, but I will continue to make great music."

Kimberly Jones, better known as Lil' Kim took the stand for two days in her own defense; Cathy Siegel, prosecutor consistently attacked her character and accentuated supposed contradictions in her testimony. Siegel's first attack was exposing that Kimberly owes the feds close to $1 million dollars in back taxes. Secondly, she brought to light two incidents which Lil' Kim jewelry was stolen and she made false reports of the estimated value of the missing items.

Additionally, she mentioned that Kimberly was not interested in paying her taxes since she just purchased a $2.3 million dollar home in Alpine, New Jersey, in 2002. Kimberly's defense of her financial situation was the she just signs the papers her accountant gives her. Many celebrities have fallen victim to the same ignorance. The greatest attack of Cathy Siegel was a magazine article that featured Lil' Kim in which she boasts of transporting illegal drugs. Kimberly Jones said that was a fabrication and she told the court she has a split personality. Looks like both of her personalities are going to jail. I will keep you posted.

According to my street committee I hear it is a possibility that Phil Jackson might be coming back to the NBA, his agent Todd Musburger, said that it was not a sure thing, but a 50/50 chance something may happen. However, he will not began official talks with teams until June. Chris Webber is having a difficult time adjusting to the way Philadelphia plays the game. He said that he has been in the league 12 years and being booed by fans at home, does not bother him.

Jim O'Brien, 76ers coach jumped to his defense and said he is coming from a completely different style of play and the fans are impatient. Danny Fortson got into it with Coach Nate McMillan and was ejected from practice. The NBA has a new zero tolerance policy that I guess he forgot. I asked Ben Wallace was it true that his coach Larry Brown was playing him less. "I had a bone spur in my left foot, but I am getting better," he said.

Karrien "Superhead" Steffans strikes again. She was to appear in 112's video and be compensated $1,000 for three hours of work, but when the video shoot was unorganized she left after having words with the group member Slim and told him she did not like the disorganization and they might have to increase the budget for her.

Well, next day when she showed up for the shoot she was in for a rude awaking. Come to find out she really offended Slim and one of the groups managers so I am not sure if she quit or if she was asked to leave, but she will not be making an appearance in the video like she did in Usher mini-movie "Rhythm City Volume 1: Caught Up." While on the subject of "Superhead," rapper Lil' Zane will be mentioned in the book with a host of other celebrities.

Unfortunately, he seems to be proud to be mentioned and even shared that she lives up to her name. I just hope he was of legal age at the time of the encounter. Sisqo of Dru Hill , you know the guy with the Thong Song, well looks like his like for thongs have landed him a baby. He is having a second child by Samantha Mumba, who I am told is a pop singer in the UK. There is a movie being filmed in Atlanta with a lot of stars like Boris Kodjoe, Idris Elba, Keisha Knight Pulliam, Clifton Powell, Omar Gooding, Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker and Yolanda Adams in it.

The director of "The Gospel" is Rob Hardy for Columbia TriStar Motion Pictures, executive producer is Fred Hammon and Holly Davis-Carter in conjunction with William Packard and Rainforest Films. I hear things are not so good at The Source Magazine . Insiders tell me the money is not being managed right and workers might walk out.

Over the weekend the world turned its attention to Atlanta, Georgia, in a hunt for a man by the name of Brian Nichols, who shot and killed a judge, a court clerk, a sheriff, and a customs agent all in one day. I, like many others was relieved to see this man off the street that armed and very dangerous. However, the woman that is claimed to have been held hostage in her own home leaves far to many unanswered questions. I wonder was she a hostage or an accessory too his crime.

As a result of slavery and racism that is alive and well I have to use a quote from my Big Momma, "America has made you think that everyone wants a white woman including King Kong and Godzilla." She would often say this as the world turned our attention to O.J. Simpson and his being found innocent of murder. Ashley Smith at about 6:15 a.m. said that Brian Nichols put the guns under her bed and she followed him in her car with her cell phone to ditch the last vehicle he had stolen and used in his get away.

She on her own will followed this murderer and allowed him to get in her car and drove him back to her home. Additionally, she made this man a great breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and sausage. I do not think for one minute she was a hostage, but his lover that decided to give up her Mandingo for money.

Note: This editorial is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Hushbox.com.


Obnoxious
3.3.05

Oscar Night....The Kodak Theater was transformed into a tabernacle of talent. I know I said that she looked like hell at MTV's Video Music Awards, but not Sunday night. Absolutely breath taking, Beyonce stole the show. Whitney there will never be a come back for you, it is all about Beyonce now. Truly she is a diva in her own right. Delivering the French lyrics to "Vois Sur Ton Chemin," talking about bling bling, Beyonce was draped in that black gown and was stunning. Everything was right hair, make up, gown, for singing "Learn To Be Lonely" from "The Phantom of the Opera." Did you see her daddy and her boyfriend stand up for her in awe? I am not sure what Jay-Z is waiting on, but after her performance that night he better go get a ring. She sang three of the nominated songs and gave three awesome looks during the Oscars.

Sean Combs, was a presenter and seemed a little out of place. I did not like the comment, "So this is the Oscars!" Yes, it was the Oscars, and you were a presenter. I guess he did not hear Jamie, whose grandmother was like mine when he said she told him to act like you been somewhere. I am not so sure how well he was trained to behave, but the comment was unnecessary and made him appear to be uncomfortable. I was disappointed not more of our African America Stars turned out for the history making night, The Academy made up for years of having denied and overlooked our talent in one night. I was afraid that Jamie would have won Best Supporting Actor and Leonardo Dicaprio would have taken it home for best actor. It would have been disappointing, but America would have followed the token rule. I have never been more proud to say I was wrong.

Jamie Foxx has gone to another level. He gave an impressive, yet moving acceptance speech. Proud to see him with his daughter at this side who's words he shared were so moving. "Daddy even if you do not win, you are still good," what wisdom for such a young child. However, her words have been most true for African Americans in the History of the Oscars. We often did not win and were still good. It was so much the case; it seemed African Americans were made to feel excited to just be nominated. The best description can be given this way, African Americans traditionally finally received an Oscar for a body of work and not for brilliant acting in one particular performance. Verity is the spice of life, diversity is incredible. The ability to do many things well is a sure sign of talent for our community. I would encourage the Beyonces and the Jamie Foxxes to continue to expose our children to a variety of experiences and abilities. It is nothing wrong with Hip Hop, but it is something special to have the ability to transcend to another level.

It can be said that it was rather predictable that Jamie was going to take the golden man home when they announced that Chris Rock was going to be the host. Which explains why he was hanging out with Jerry Steinfeld, he was a huge let down. I was expecting more from the controversial comedian than what he delivered. Robin Williams let it be known they had been censored by coming out with his mouth covered in tape. Making the image visually alive to what we were already experiencing by the muted Rock. I was extremely disappointed by his comment to Sean Penn.

We all know this country is about money, so who cares. If he had any real class he would have not responded at all. The 77th Annual Academy Awards averaged 41.5 million viewers, a 5% drop from last year, marking this year as the least watched Oscars in 9 years. I guess it is safe to assume that not as many people cared that it was going to be a Blackout in Hollywood or was it a silent protest.

Chris was either nervous or not good on his feet when trying to make a joke that did not go over well or not as fast a thinker when he attempted to fill in for the missing Catherine Zeta-Jones. I dare not mention that dreadful clip at the Magic Johnson Theater in Los Angles was most inappropriate and made African American people look stupid by reinforcing stereotypes by a comedian that is obviously not as diverse with his material as Beyonce is with her music.

Old man out of control is all I can say for Temple's Coach John Chaney. He will not coach in the Atlantic 10 tournament, part of a self-imposed punishment. I think we need a self imposed resignation. At the age of 73 he is totally out of control and should remove himself from the game and be saved from the embarrassment of being asked to resign. Ordering a rough play by one of his players resulted in a senior, John Bryant to have a broken arm. Last I checked this was basketball and not football, so you know the boy had to hit him hard to cause him to break a limb. What type of intimidation tactics has Chaney been using throughout his 33-year coaching career?

This is the behavior of a so called Hall of Fame Coach that had already been suspended by the school for the final three games of the regular season. Ingram, who has been described as a "goon", was put in the game to do just what he did. Ingram fouled out in 4 minutes to get the opponents good man down. "I never intended – nor did any of my players intend - for anyone to be injured, regardless of what may have been said emotionally before, during, and after the game," Chaney said. "But the unfortunate fact is that John Bryant was injured. I have taken full responsibility for my words and actions, and have apologized from my heart." There are some things an apology cannot erase or ease and this type of action is out of control and he needs to throw in the towel now! Chaney has had a long career, but it is now time to pass the torch to someone else.

He needs a good lesson from Coach Carter because it does not seem like he would be one to teach his players the importance of education and damn well is not teaching good sportsmanship. This type of action makes me wonder how many players have been injured on or off the court at his orders and what other low down tactics does he probably implement on the court. Based upon past footage of him at press conferences he could be described as a "goon" himself.

The Sixth Annual State of the Black Union Symposium was in Atlanta. The Tavis Smiley event challenged assembled black leaders to examine developing a contract with Black America. The event had a crowd of about 2,000 on Saturday that seemed empty in such a large facility as New Birth. Rev. Al Sharpton was there talking loud about much of nothing as he often does. Louis Farrakhan, Nation of Islam Leader and accomplished violinist, gave insightful and powerful remarks. In addition to Rev. Joseph Lowery, Former President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, suggest we bring spirituality back to our community.

The panel also included former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Joycelyn Elders, Rev. Dr. Cornel West, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and others participated in a second panel the same day. I am not sure what the walk away was for others, but I found it to be another one of those topics that we have long discussed and seen very little progress recently to me. Everyone wants black support at the cheapest price. Politicians want our vote and retailers want our money. While our alleged leaders deliver us for selfish gain. We are a cheap date all you have to do is throw a few dollars in the face of one the crocked leaders to get what you want.

Even Bishop Eddie Long laughed about his accepting an invitation to the White House, but was very pro black and liberal on that day. However, I was proud to see Louis Farrakhan was not afraid to come to the Bishop's House, since he publicly spoke against the Million Man March and told his members not to attend. I do look forward to the 10 Year Anniversary of the Million Man March the Muslim Leader, Farrakhan reminded the audience of and shared that the activity would include all people.

Drug Dealers and Killers....50 Cent has officially announced that Game is no longer apart of the G-Unit family. Game has been dismissed from the rap mafia. It seems that Game appeared on Hot 97 with Funkmaster Flex and Angie Martinez on Saturday afternoon and did not acknowledge 50 Cent for his major hand in assisting Game with his album debut, The Documentary. The funny part is that Game was on Power 105 at the same time 50 Cent was on the other station and did not know he had been fired or dismissed until a caller informed him of what had just been stated on the other station. Game did not answer the question and said he would continue to make good music.

However, he did not know he was going to be making good music separate from G-Unit. It was reported Game later told Funkmaster Flex, who had just interviewed 50 Cent that he was never informed by Dr. Dre or Interscope Chairman, Jimmy Iovine he was going to be dismissed. I thought Game was not that bright and he has confirmed it, all that talk and warning I am told by Jay-Z to Dr. Dre and 50 Cent that his mouth was a little to much for the Hip Hop master. Jay-Z was looking good in his tux at the Oscars, but let me make it clear to you that he has another side. Game should ask R. Kelly.

The interesting twist is that Game might really be crazy or it was ironic for a man to be shot in the leg the same day at the radio station, who was apart of 50 Cent's entourage is enough to raise suppositions. The shooting occurred shortly after 10 p.m. at WQHT-FM, otherwise known as, Hot 97. 50 Cent was promoting the upcoming release of his new album "The Massacre," He was not shot or harmed in the incident. The is the same station that Lil Kim's entourage engaged in a shootout that left one man severely wounded and one bodyguard sentenced to 12 years while the other is in jail awaiting sentencing not to mention her trial started this week in relationship to her involvement.

While on the subject of Lil Kim, born Kimberley Jones, and her assistant Monique Dopewell are charged with perjury, obstruction of justice, and making false statements. Judge Gerald Lynch said that many potential jurors made comments about the Hip Hop bad girl that was unacceptable. Cathy Seibel, Assistant Manhattan U.S. Attorney, told the judge that some jurors made it through due to clerical errors. The judge said that he was certain they would be dismissed.

According to my street committee what is up with "The Rock," who was born Dwayne Johnson shows us a different side in the film "Be Cool." He plays Elliott, a gay music industry bodyguard who wants to be an actor. This is something to look forward to since he the former football player turned professional wrestler has become a decent actor. The 300 pound man says, "I saw an opportunity to play a guy who was conflicted in a world that he didn't want to be in, but at the same time he felt like he had something to offer the world through song and through dance.

He was a gay man who was proud and by the end of the movie, he embraced even more him being gay," said The Rock. Although, the character Elliott is far from the former World Wrestling Entertainment star was able to draw from personal experience to play the role of Elliott, "I connected with Elliott. He was a guy who really didn't have any money. That was me eight years ago. I was lucky in my life that I had a lot of positive gay influences. My mentor from many years is a strong, proud, steadfast, truthful gay man, who was a former professional wrestler. His name is Pat Patterson," shared The Rock.

Musiq, you know the singer that was known as Musiq Soulchild, has fired his managers, Mama's Boys. It was said that he was known as Grit 77 before his album came out. The word is that he wanted to do a Hip Hop album and his former management group had creative differences.

Yolanda Adams says we will never know why she divorced her husband former NFL player Tim Crawford. Although, divorce is looked down upon by the church and contrary to the principal of faith that the gospel singer professes in her music she filed for divorce. We will never know what he really did, but I hear it was that he stepped out on her.


Note: This editorial is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Hushbox.com.