Jody Watley Takes Nightlife to Access Hollywood Live with Billy Bush

© 2013 Jody Watley. Billy Bush, Jody Watley and Kit Hoover

Jody Watley is back with a new single and album. The irresistible "Nightlife" had both hosts Billy Bush and Kit Hoover in the groove, with Bush unable to stay seated getting up and dancing on a memorable interview on Access Hollywood Live. Must see! Watch the archived and check out the dance off and interview: HERE 
The appearance also ended up as one the weeks top moments on TvLine - see who else made the list: HERE

Jody Watley. Music Maverick. Wax Poetics Issue 57

Jody Watley by Victoria Pearson

Not everyone fits in with the mainstream. Some are born to be different. They are misfits, individualists, outsiders, and eccentrics that let their freak flags fly. Yet they have found a way to thrive on their own terms, transcending barriers of categorical concepts and popular expectations. Read the story: HERE

A double cover featuring Janelle Monae and Jody Watley, definitely a collectible.

Jody Watley Is Back Talking Iconic Style with Singersroom

©2013 Jody Watley 

Jody Watley is simply FABULOUS! Throughout her career she has been a trendsetter that has never sacrificed her integrity. She taught many how to move on Soul Train, how to groove as a member of Shalamar and she showed fans how hard it is to find a friend or love as a solo artist. Jody Watley talked to us about being authentic, connecting with her fans, her favorite spot in L.A., the dance movement, how controversy plays a big role in music today and more.

Read more: Here

Jody Watley Classic. ESSENCE MAGAZINE COVER.

In celebration of Jody Watley Essence Festival concert appearance July 6, 2013.

Shalamar Originals Reunite.

One of Shalamar's original male lead singers, Gerald Brown drove to Indianapolis for my concert at 4th Street Live texting me to say "You don't think you can come within a hundred miles from Indy and I not be there. See you in Louisville!!"

Gerald was there for soundcheck and then joined me onstage in front of thousands, some who'd also driven in from miles around to the open air plaza. They witnessed a bit of Shalamar history, as two leads sang one as we had not done in 35 years "Take That to The Bank," when I was a teen and naive to this crazy business. It was a blast for both of us and the joyous audience who sang and danced with me for my entire show.
"It's In The Music!"

Former Shalamar Members Gerald Brown and Jody Watley.

JodyWatleyStyle: In custom Sequined Paillette Black Kimono Top, Black Skinny Jeans by J Brand, and Matte Black Studded Pumps.

Photo: Jody Watley, 2013

Jody Watley. I Love a Great Hat.

Jody Watley in Gladys Tamez Classic Valentino.

I learned of milliner Gladys Tamez through my friend, beauty expert, consultant, nail guru and fine arts diva Shawanna Davis.

After visiting Gladys' studio in downtown Los Angeles, it was hard to resist not leaving with at least one hat. I chose "the classic Valentino,"  which I was measured for and tailored just for me - hat couture! I'm certain I'll be adding others to my hat collection. Millinery is really a lost art. To see the process and how it's done makes one appreciate the craft even more.

Jody Watley and Gladys Tamez at downtown Los Angeles showroom/studio.

Jody Watley at Gladys Tamez Los Angeles Showroom/Studio.

I love this color!

With Armando Lopez who constructs the hats. Armando made Michael Jackson's classic fedora's.

With Gladys Tamez. I couldn't stop trying on hats!

All Photo's: Jody Watley (c) 2013, All Rights Reserved.

Jody Watley Looking Good | Style

Jody Watley attends Harper's Bazaar launch party of "Dukes of Melrose" To view more photo's click:

Essence Magazine 

Centric's The Culture List

GuestofAGuest 

Jody Watley Attends Dukes of Melrose Launch Party

I'm  wearing a vibrant green Stella McCartney tunic dress, black slacks, and color blocked pumps in nude and orange. My bag is a studded MCM clutch from their new collection. It's always a trick to pull off fashion forward, classic, a touch of trendy while being age appropriate while still being very Jody Watley - today. I say age appropriate because I do think that everything isn't for everyone at any age..and personally there's something a little sad and desperate when you see a woman dressing as a teen or woman in her twenties. One can still be youthful and fashionable and not leave it all out there. I decided against my signature hoops, wanting the tunic to be the feature. I was wearing a thin spiked bracelet. The great thing about the tunic as well was it has pockets.

Christos Garkinos rocked a dashing red Paul Smith suit and was a perfect host along with Cameron Silver from Decades. Their series "The Dukes of Melrose" premieres March 6, 2013 on Bravo TV - don't miss it!

Photo's: Getty Images

Jody Watley Photo Classic of The Day. GRAMMY's

Jody Watley, 2012

I'm proud to be a part of GRAMMY history. Some artists, musicians and songwriters never reach a moment like this - and I'm always proud to have done it. It's doubtful that any moment would ever come close to winning such a major award the music equivalent of an Academy Award. at the time in my life when I did win this it meant and means so much. No one expected it, including me. God had a plan bigger than the one I saw for myself. Coming out of Shalamar making such a huge individual impact was rewarding and vindicating to say the least. I've always said that after winning the Grammy for "Best New Artist," I got on with my artistic journey evolving into the artist I wanted to be - never being trapped in the box or rendering myself to the creative commercial expectations of others. This isn't an easy path to take.

When sitting on a panel with music legend Smokey Robinson; he mentioned having one Grammy and lamented on how today they seem to give them out like 'Chiclets.' It was a surprise moment because with his track record as a songwriter and artist, you would think his mantle would be overflowing in with them. It gave me a moment of pause. Fans take so much for granted. Really and truly, it's not the quantity - though of course it would be awesome to have stacks of them, but it's very special to have reached that type of pinnacle - AT ALL. It could be 70 years ago or right now as a young artist making a name for themselves; savor the moment.

My Bio and Discography touches on the depth of my journey Pre- and Post post Grammy win thus far including my groundbreaking collaboration with Eric B. & Rakim "Friends" became a formula with the custom verses that continues to impact music today among other notable influences in Music, Video, Fashion, Celebrity Ads, Cross Marketing and Style across various platforms. I've charted and had success in each decade since. Longevity has many faces and paths - I represent one --  http://www.jodywatley.net
Style is individual and unique to each of us and it should evolve over time, with a distinct essence at the core.
As a note, for my GRammy night style on this occasion I wore a vintage cocktail dress personalized and funked up with customized leather Biker jacket.

Photo: Getty Images

Black History Month Inspired by Josephine Baker. Jody Watley Evolving Style.

I've had so many memorable looks and style benchmarks thus far in my career. I've never been afraid to try new styles and looks - always a chameleon. On my birthday a mini hair retrospective was featured here: HuffPostBeauty

With that in mind I thought I'd highlight some of my own favorite looks and moments thus far starting with channeling the legendary Josephine Baker  and classic 20's glam with my spin on it for Essence Magazine and a Tourbook in 1989.

"..you know it's funnny - funny how time flies as I've watched days turn into yeeaars.." - lyric from 'Still a Thrill'

Though the pairing of black and white has always been a classic in fashion and runway mainstay it's back at the forefront of what's hot for Spring 2013. I can't help but recall wearing it  back in 1980 for a photo session I did while a member of the group Shalamar. In fashion, everything comes back around in some form or another.

If I see something I like and buy it; it's simply about what appeals to me and my individual style and taste - this has remained consistent with me through the years. If you've been around for a 'trend' that has returned and you choose to wear it;  it's about what works for you now. It's key to not be stuck in what worked in the past - make it work for you now. The same applies to make-up you can't wear the same hues that you did as a teen or young adult. Tweak, revise, remix, update! In this case I paired my new black and white blouse from Zara with bright orange slacks from H&M - effortless and relaxed chic.

The photo of me on the left is from 1980 when I was in Shalamar, the photo on the right was a couple of nights ago at a party I attended; still fabulous and still me - aging gracefully. If we're lucky we're all going to get older; the key is to do it with style and grace.

Jody Watley - Left, in 1980. Right, in 2013.

With Mickey Boardman of Paper Magazine.

Photo's: Jody Watley

Jody Watley. Attends Harper's Bazaar Fendi Reception in Los Angeles.

Attended a casually chic cocktail reception at Fendi, The Beverly Center in Los Angeles. Christos Garkinos of Co-Owner of Decades, Avril Graham Executive Fashion and Beauty Editor of Harper's Bazaar, and Carlota Espinosa CEO and Co- Founder of Styleloot were co-hosts presenting Fendi Resort 2013.  I made the printed pants trend my own by pairing them with a black turtleneck and black Christian Louboutin's.

Jody Watley with Co-Owner of Decades Christos Garkinos

Photo's: LookbookLA.com and Jody Watley, All Rights Reserved 2012.

Jody Watley. 'Loving The Silent Tears' An International Musical Event. African Style.

Being a part of this prestigious global cast of 16 diverse artists, stellar production team not to mention a meaningful musical event; was one of the great experiences I've enjoyed in my career. Working with Vincent Paterson was a dream come true.

My main song about gratitude which came near the end of the show at a pivotal moment in the story was in 'Africa'.  I'd never worn this grand of a costume and felt very regal. It was breathtaking to see the scale and beauty of all of the cultural costuming in the show. The musical took the audience and all of us on a visual and spiritually woven journey around the world on October 27, 2012 at The Shrine Auditorium.

In Partial Costume, Pre-Show with our director Legendary VIncent Paterson.

In Costume Pre-Show with Emmy Winning Choreographer Bonnie Story.

With Lula Washington and Some of her Dance Company

With Vietnamese Pop Star HoQuynh Huong about to get in Limo's for Red Carpet

More Photo's in the Gallery on my Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/JodyWatleyOfficial

And Instagram / Jody Watley


All Photo's Copyright: Jody Watley

Jody Watley At Dita Von Teese Collection Launch.

At Decades for the Dita Von Teese Dress Collection launch In the classic VIP trench coat dress. Accent details include a bit of tulle underneath, front and back pleats and secret pockets. I love it! To compliment the coat I wore silver metallic Jimmy Choo peep toe pumps from Decades. Golden Era Hollywood Veronica Lake-esque styled soft wave hair completed my look for the evening. Oh - and my classic 'cat' eyeliner for the make-up/beauty inspiration.

With Decades' Christos Garkinos

Relaxed Summer Style.

Nothing like a nice summer dress.


Photo Copyright: Jody Watley

Jody Watley. Summer Style Color-Blocking Trend.

I don't usually like tight fitting clothes or too much color. with this outfit however - I went for it! the color blocking trend has taken me taken me out of my all black comfort zone. When it comes to style, as long as it suits you, go for it.

Just over 50, mother of two young adults and fab - yes that's me!

Jody Watley Featured on Afrobella.

Jody Watley on Life, Music, Billy B and Being An Icon. Click to read here: http://www.afrobella.com/2012/05/18/jody-watley-on-life-music-beauty-billy-b-and-being-an-icon/


Photo: Mike Ruiz