Jody Watley in V Magazine Summer 2014

Jody Watley Candid.  V Magazine Photo Session.

Article:

THE IRREPRESSIBLE JODY WATLEY RETURNS WITH A BRAND NEW ALBUM THAT HARKS BACK TO HER FUNK SOUL ROOTS. HERE, THE SINGER REFLECTS ON HER RISE TO THE TOP, WORKING WITH THE WORLD’S GREATEST FASHION PHOTOGRAPHERS AND STAYING TRUE.

Jody Watley at Giorgio’s the exclusive, the exclusive Saturday party at The Standard in Hollywood, where Mick Jagger and Andre Harrell mix and David LaChapelle might be spotted with Daphne Guiness on his lap. Watley is the queen of the venue-she holds court almost every week just past DJ Adam XII’s booth with her friend and Decades cofounder Christos Garkinos. Tonight, the mother of two a self described basketball mom, carpool mom, fabulous mom..” wears all black save for a pair of crystal Jimmy Choo pumps. When she’s in the mood, she’ll fan herself on the dance floor-something she has done since beginning her career as a dancer on Soul Train as a teenager. “I always have my little fan action.” the icon says with a smile. “It’s so glamourous. Eat your heart out Karl Lagerfeld.” Watley shot the video for “Nightlife”, the clubby lead single off her new album “Paradise”,at Giorgio’s.  “I want to inspire people, because people get stuck in a rut.” she says of the music. “Oh, I’m not going out, Oh, the good ole’ days..” And it’s so frustrating. It’s like make new memories! Even if you had a great time ten, twenty, thirty years ago, be fabulous now! You’re alive, Hello!”

The daughter of a Chicago minister, Watley first performed onstage as a child with her godfather, the incredible crooner Jackie Wilson. After relocating to Los Angeles she succeeded in her mission to become a Soul Train regular. In 1977, Don Cornelius the show’s creator and host, selected her to become an original member of the disco super trio-Shalamar, which would record world-class dance-floor anthems like “The Second Time Around” and “A Night To Remember.” Watley left the group after six years, loved to London, and recorded “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” with Band Aid.

After returning to Los Angeles three years later, she signed with MCA Records and released her 1987 solo album “Jody Watley”, co-writing a handful of tracks. It contains some of her most enduring dance music, including the lead single “Looking For A New Love” (which features the popular pre Terminator 2 kiss-off “Hasta la vista baby!”). “Don’t You Want Me.” and “Some Kind of Lover.” She accepted her 1988 “Best New Artist” Grammy-winning over Breakfast Club, Cutting Crew, Swing Out Sister and Terence Trent D’Arby – in a vintage dress and biker jacket painted with her likeness.

‘When I signed to MCA, I didn’t see anybody like who I wanted to be.” she says. “I wanted to do that badass fashion chick that’s just different. And not everybody likes her. And not everybody liked me. “You don’t smile, you’re a black girl, you’re glamorous and you’ve got this cold as ice stare.” While in London she sought out designers like Azzedine Alaia, Claude Montana, Vivienne Westwood, and Jean Paul-Gaultier. “I bought one of the first cone bra’s, pre-Madonna. It’s on the single sleeve of “Don’t You Want Me”. I also bought the huge one that she ended up wearing, but the understated one was more me”, she says.

With her gorgeous mane, lean frame, stunning brows illegal cheekbones and ballsy attitude Watley was the perfect subject for fashion’s top photographers.”[When I first started] the label didn’t want to fly me to New York for my first layout for Harper’s Bazaar” she laughs. “So I flew myself out to shoot with Scavullo!” Steven Meisel photographed the cover of her 1989 follow-up album Larger Than Life. The video for ‘Real Love’ was directed by David Fincher and featured her ruling the runway in menswear paving the way for future acts like Aaliyah and TLC.

“I never wanted to be like anybody else” says Watley who, in the decades that followed never stopped recording, performing and changing up her style and sound. Now she’s writing a memoir, which she plans to finish this year.  “I can only be who I am. Because to me that’s what street is. Street is real.” – Mark Jacobs

Jody Watley featuring Shalamar Signs with Pyramid For Exclusive Booking

Following the success of the single "Nightlife"featuring original lead Gerald Brown "Take That To The Bank" and revisiting her disco soul roots, Watley's new show will feature a new Shalamar segment along with her hits and new music, guaranteed to be a nightlife to remember!

Contact smichaels@pyramid-ent.com 

Jody Watley. Paradise.

Cover Art. Jody Watley Paradise EP.  Photography Albert Sanchez. Makeup: Billy B. Dress: Gucci

Get more information on the forthcoming "Paradise" and other Jody Watley Updates  - Visit http://jodywatley.net

Listen to "Sanctuary" Preview: Here

Catching Up With Jody Watley on JET Magazine

Get ready, Jody Watley fans. The Grammy winner’s new EP, Paradise, hits retail outlets in early 2014. She shared with JET the story behind the album, her future plans and whether there will be a “second time around” for Shalamar. Read it: NOW

Jody Watley Talks Shalamar, Hit Making Solo Run and More

PhotoL Mike Ruiz Makeup: Billy B.

My interview with David Mitchell takes on the business of Shalamar and topics that also include; "a hit-blazing solo run, and her latest endeavor “Nightlife,” the kick-off single from her forthcoming project, Paradise." Another must read: HERE 

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's New Single Nightlife Is A Call To Get Fabulous

©2013 Jody Watley. Billy Johnson of Yahoo Music and Jody Watley 

From Yahoo Music: R and B superstar Jody Watley took some cues from some of her favorite songs when prepping her single "Nightlife," the debut from her first album in seven years.

"Nightlife" is a feel good, soulful dance record that offers an uplifting message with lyrics like, "Life ain't easy. I feel like I want to get out. Have myself a good time." 

Get more fabulous : here in a 3 part video informative and charming Jody Watley interview with Billy Johnson.

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 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

"..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 InStyle Magazine Golden Globes 2013 Event.

Grammy Winning Pop /R&B Pioneer Jody Watley rocking Dita Von Teese Collection available exclusively at Decades at Hollywood Foreign Press and InStyle Magazine's Golden Globes 2013 Celebration Kick-Off Event at Cecconi's in West Hollywood, California.

Jody Watley. Backstage Glam. Soul Train Awards 2012

Wearing an understated bias cut and draped custom made purple jersey gown. The look was inspired by golden era Hollywood Glam. I was torn between funky and trendy - but chose classic; though my Alexander McQueen python skull and jeweled knuckle clutch bag was a nod to that eclectic side of my style personality.

Jody Watley Outside Backstage Soul Train Awards 2012

Photo: Jody Watley

Jody Watley. Soul Train Awards 2012.

For the red carpet I opted for a bias cut custom made royal purple jersey gown with a train. My inspiration was a take on classic hollywood glamour. The glasses are grey Ant 'Top Off Amber' with rose colored lenses.

I always stop to acknowledge the fans who show me love - also a part of my style!

Jody Watley, wind swept on the Soul Train Awards 2012 Red Carpet, Las vegas

Photo's: 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

The Craft and Art of Embroidery and Beading.

I believe my love, interest and appreciation of beading and embroidery came from watching Sonny & Cher, as well as The Cher Show Show in the 70's as a child. I came to know who Bob Mackie was because at the time television programs ran credits and I wanted to know who did what.

When I designed for my former group Shalamar, some of our costumes gave me the opportunity to work a few hard to find local specialists who did the work by hand.

This video about Francois Lesage of the legendary Maison Lesage, Paris provides a meaningful glimpse into the traditions and beauty of the craft of beading and embroidery as well as fabric creation. There's a sweet and poignant moment when he mentions that when he started out taking over for his parents at Maison Lesage that he was the youngest, and now he is the oldest. There's also a nice recollection of creating a beaded crocodile for Yves St Laurent among other experiences he shares here.

Check it out!

Jody Watley. Classic Style. Vintage In Norma Kamali.

Vintage, 1989.

In Norma Kamali with Shalamar Vintage 1982.

I have so many favorite Norma Kamali style moments. The Kamali Boutique in New York 56th, just off 5th Avenue was one of my many 'must do' first shopping stops, even if just to look around. To experience the Glamour of the store before fashion and style became commercial and perhaps jaded remains pivotal. Kamali is another trailblazer who has always gone her own way. I've recently learned more about her and thanks to modern technology exchanged Twitter messages. I was able to let her know not assuming she knew how long I'd worn her clothes that I was a longtime fan and appreciator of her work.
I've worn her clothes since the 70's. Old or classic Hollywood is a longtime influence on me, since I was a little girl; there's a timelessness to it all.

Kamali's ruched 40's inspired swimdress is still sold as a part of her collection and is flattering to any woman's figure as summer approaches.

Timeless in 2012.

To Learn More: http://www.normakamali.com

Jody Watley| The Rrazz Room. Real Music. Real Elegant. Real Funky.

Defying preconceived notions and expectation; Grammy Award Winning Artist Jody Watley delivers a live experience combining her distinct brand of elegance and funk. A musical journey and melting pot of styles weaving 70's disco funk as a nod to her Soul Train and Shalamar past, signature solo 80's Pop/R&B, Jazz and ambient Dance/Electronica are seamlessly woven together for this special night of music. The singer/songwriter will also preview of new music from her appropriately titled forthcoming 10th album tentatively titled "Chameleon".

 

The Rrazz Room / Hotel Nikko, San Francisco

222 Mason Street

For Tickets:

http://www.therrazzroom.com/12ap/jody_w.html

Jody Watley. Celebrating Don Cornelius

Jody Watley and Don Cornelius, 1988

Don Cornelius represents an incredible and unparalleled legacy in television, music and dance that will live on forever. Don and Soul Train shined a bright and historic light for our culture.  A true visionary, icon, legend and pioneer in every sense; his impact on black pride and aspiration in youth like myself was immeasurable during the peak of Soul Train in the 70′s. Don created, built and opened a door of inspiration, hope and opportunity for street dancers and artists to walk through – especially me as my career has always been intertwined with the show because it’s where I got my start. What many don’t know is that my father and Don Cornelius knew each other as they were on the AM airwaves in Chicago at the same time when I was a baby; my father doing Gospel and Don Cornelius as a part-time news announcer.  I didn’t learn the connection until after I was a dancer on the show. In essence Don Cornelius was already in the fabric of my life before our paths would eventually line-up many years before his show gave me and all of my friends something to look forward to on Saturday and to talk about at school on Monday. We rocked our afro’s with pride and were presented in a positive light. I thank God for Don.  Millions of us lived for Soul Train helping to make it the longest syndicated music television show in history. Soul Train was a vehicle of exposure for countless artists in music when all other doors remained (and to a degree remain) closed. If you made it on Soul Train, you’d arrived.

Jody Watley on Soul Train.

I owe so much to Don and Soul Train. It was Don who hand-picked me for Shalamar when forming Soul Train Records and he remained supportive throughout my solo career.

Jody Watley on Soul Train.

Jody Watley and Jeffrey Daniel, Soul Train Scramble Board

Soul Train Records Original Shalamar: Jeffrey Daniel, Jody Watley, Gary Mumford 1977

Don Cornelius with Jody Watley, Soul Train Christmas Party, 1978

Don Cornelius, Jody Watley GRAMMY Museum, 40th Anniversary of Soul Train, 2010

Don Cornelius and Jody Watley, 2010, "Soul Train Time-Life DVD Taping"

My heart is truly broken to learn of Don’s death and passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and those like me who loved and appreciated him for all that he represented and achieved as the first African-American to create, produce, host and OWN his own show. Don Cornelius let us know that black is beautiful and sent us off with love, peace and soul.

In his departing, I’m wishing him the same.

Rest in Peace Don Cornelius.


 ADDENDUM:
The blog entry was updated to include information about The Soul Train Dance Studio, and Jody Watley as 'Robot' teacher to 'The Queen of Soul' Aretha Franklin.
Read the full post: HERE