"The Unsung Musicians of the Motown Empire" is a documentary created and produced by Saxophonist Duane Parham.  It pays tribute to the many horn players who helped establish the "Motown Sound."  Without those guys, the music would lack the "distinctive melodies, unique chord structures and call and response singing style" that describes its identity.   The "sound" leans toward pop music but "grabs" its singing style from gospel music.  The horn players not only made that sound. . . they were that sound!  

Three of the Horn Players

                         Ernie Rodgers                                                        Teddy Harris                                                             Marcus Belgrave

Most of the horn players are no longer with us but have left music that is stamped on our hearts and minds.  The "sound" still moves us and is being passed down to future generations.  "The Unsung Musicians of the Motown" documentary continues that legacy.  

The Unsung Musicians of the Motown Empire Documentary Excerpt

Motown is our town. . . and Motown music is our sound! 
​View the guys who made that sound!

The Unsung Musicians of the Motown Empire Documentary video can be found at saxvilleavenue.com.  Schools, historic organizations and libraries may contact Educational Arts Society and arrange for it to be shown at their locations.   
EAMTRADIO hopes you support keeping the memory of "the horn players" alive!  

Dr. Smith is Humbled by Listeners

"The Joys of Christmas" by Classical Singer Dr. Mamie Smith is attracting attention!  She is so-o-o grateful because she never in "a million years" thought she would go into a music studio...and certainly not make an album. . .  You may think it is nothing, but she is humbled by it all.  A list of recent listeners:


A Sample of Listeners for the
Week of November 5, 2023
​
A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Jango Radio
Oklahoma, United States - 5 minutes ago

A Guest User
Heard "Silent Night" playing in Jango Radio
Australia - 11 minutes ago

matt.brode
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in 90's Summer Party
Pennsylvania, United States - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Electro Swing
Canada - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Jango Radio
Mexico - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Latin Ballads
Mexico - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Latin Ballads
Argentina - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Road Trip Sing Alongs
Rwanda - 2 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in R&B Hits
Japan - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Jango Radio
Mexico - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Baroque
Florida, United States - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in 2000's R&B
Alabama, United States - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Mariah Carey
North Carolina, United States - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Whitney Houston
Oklahoma, United States - 3 days ago

A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in 90's R&B Throwback
Philippines - 3 days ago


Stevie Glanville
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Mariah Carey
United States - 3 days ago
A Guest User
Heard "Sweet Little…" playing in Love Songs
Argentina - 3 days ago
A Guest User
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Franz Joseph Haydn
Mexico - 3 days ago
A Guest User
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Whitney Houston
Indiana, United States - 3 days ago

mivastud
Heard "O Holy Night" playing in a station with Mariah Carey
Australia - 

It took Saxophonist Duane Parham several years of trying to convince Dr. Smith to go into a studio and do anything!  Finally...he convinced her.  Hear the rest of her album here.

 It was a rainy, dreary day that we embarked on a visit to Blue Llama. As we headed out of the Detroit area toward Ann Arbor, excitement filled the air!  Along with the excitement was a bit of frustration because "bottled-up traffic" had caused a delay.   But. . . we were trying to mentally "get back on track."  

This was our first trip to Blue Llama and a birthday celebration for the guy driving the SUV.   Wow!  I'm getting ahead of myself!  What is​ the Blue Llama?  It is a jazz club in downtown Ann Arbor that presents "live" music, coupled with a non-traditional cuisine.  I say non-traditional because perusing the menu a few days earlier, did not give recognition to any of the names describing the 4-course meal we would acquire with our "Dinner and Show Reservation."  Tickets to the show had to be paid in advance.  And. . . there are no "walk-ins" my email from Blue Llama pointed out.  So, back to the trip.

Arriving at Blue Llama, we were ushered to wall-side seating by a polite receptionist.  Fixating on the stage, we saw "Don Hicks and Friends" already "sounding-off" with jazz tunes that quickly got our attention.  It reminded me of a music class when Jazzist Scott Joplin was introduced to students, and they loved it at first hearing.  I love Jazz, but I also love Smooth Jazz and waited to see if the band would play a tune or two.  That did not happen.   

Prior to our visit, walking around on the website, I observed bookings well into December 2023.  A few caught my attention.

Musicians @ Blue Llama

Our  visit to Blue Llama was an enjoyable experience.  The non-traditional food was delicious! I recommend it highly.  The food staff scurried around making sure everything was in perfect order.     Also, they were extremely friendly.  However, if you are going for dinner and a show, be prepared to spend in excess of two hundred dollars (without drinks).   While this article is not written to get you to visit Blue Llama, it may be worthwhile to check it out when you are preparing for a "special occasion."
  And... it is well worth the drive.  Happy Hunting!

Duane Parham's "My Turn" will be among the many smooth jazz "tunes" hitting the stage at the John E Lawrence Summer Jazz Festival on August 25, 2023.  This "sassy" little tune will make you turn sideways in your seat.  Make sure you are there to hear it!  Here's a bit of what you will hear. . .

Duane Parham released another Detroit favorite in 2020 called "Your Precious Love."  This Marvin Gaye hit is delighting listeners worldwide.  Parham's version features Vocalist Tammy Trele Davis.   The "soulful" saxophone of Duane gives it a special flavor.   He is expected to add it to his festival playlist.

As a fixture in Detroit, Duane wears lots of hats.  The above information gives you an idea of "how many."  So, contact his booking agent if we can serve you in any capacity.

Ms. Davis's trademark is to sing blues that "raise you up," while recognizing the historical foundation of the genre comes from "blood, sweat and a whole lot of tears."   

Created in southern states after the Civil War, the blues expresses deep emotions, stemming from sadness, depression and hardships.   Over 250 years of slavery, under inhumane conditions, produced the ancestral cry.   "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," a hand that was sometimes cut-off by a slave master, instilled hope and generated strength and courage.   Precious Lord was the person's only refuge.  Later, Jim Crow laws and institutional injustice continued that cry.    Today...we see that mentality being revived in many states.  But as the song says, "We shall overcome."

​Who is Thornetta Davis?

Born and educated in Detroit, Ms. Davis hit the music scene at the age of 15. . .singing with a group called Jas.  In 1983, Jas disbanded but that did not stop Thornetta.  Garnering a couple of high schools friends, a singing group entitled Chanteuse was born.  Chanteuse continued until 1991 when Davis landed a solo contract with Sub Pop Label.  Success was certainly courting her!  In 1994, a solo album entitled "Sunday Morning Music" was released.   Stardom has begun to knock on her door!

Mingling with the Stars

From 1997 to 2003, Thornetta sang background vocals for Kid Rock.  She appeared on albums Devil Without a Cause, Kid Rock and a single titled Wasting Time.  Opening for musicians Ray Charles, Bonnie Raitt and Gladys Knight certainly caused the "success lights" to shine on her.  How bright is that light today?

Awards & Recognition

2015 Detroit's Queen of the Blues
2017 Blues Blast Magazine Music Award
Winner of 2012 International Songwriting Competition
2018 Detroit Music award
2018 Winner of $25,000 Kresge Fellowship Recipient

These are only a few of the successes Thornetta enjoys.

Hear Ms. Davis on July 13, 2023 - Royal Oak Summer Music Concert - 8:30 PM.  For more performance dates, simply Google Thornetta Davis . . .Queen of the Blues.

In the Words of Thornetta Davis
​" Am I Just a Shadow?"
 Lyrics
[Verse 1]
You take me in,
Keep me from the rest.
You lock me away inside your walls of indecision
I don't know why you feel the need
To cut my heart and watch it bleed
Is that your way to make me pay for her deceptions.

[Chorus]
Do you really know me?
Or, am I just a shadow?
(Just a shadow)
Of someone who reminds you of that someone not to love
(Not to love)

[Verse 2]
Vengeance is mine, you say to your heart
Why do you chose to take it all out on me?
You call me a liar when I speak a truth (Call me a liar when I speak a truth)
You call out her name when I’m here with you (Call out her name when I'm here with you)
But, I'm not the one who left your heart in misery

[Chorus]
Do you really know me?
Or, am I just a shadow?
(Just a shadow)
Of someone who reminds you of that someone not to love
(Not to love)
Do you really know me?
Or, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Am I, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)

Verse 3]
I know your pain and, I felt it too
Your spirit is broken by the things she put you through
But, didn’t I show you how it could be? (Didn't I show you how it could be?)
Or, are you afraid to give love to me? (Are you afraid to give love to me?)
Then, tell me to go and I won't regret my time with you

[Outro]
Do you really know me?
Or, am I just a shadow?
(Just a shadow)
Of someone who reminds you of that someone not to love
(Not to love)
Oh, naw, naw, naw
Do you really know me?
Or, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Am I, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Do you know me, or am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Am I, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Do you know me, do you know me, baby?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Aw yeah, do you know me, do you know me, baby?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Hey, am I, am I just a shadow?
(Do you really, do you really know me, baby?)
Am I, am I just a shadow?

My first impression of this painting was "What is going on with the artistry of Jonathan Harris?  First, let me say, I had never heard of Jonathan Harris!  That made me more curious as to why he would create such a work of art.  Historically, many artists address currents events and social issues in their art.  Harris is one of them.  Incidentally, the painting is called "Critical Race Theory."    Now. . . the image begins to make sense.

Who is Jonathan Harris?

Before delving into a discussion of Harris's "Critical Race Theory" work of art, it may be of interest to find out what makes this guy tick!   Jonathan was born and raised in Detroit...went to Detroit schools and "lived" Detroit history.   As a child, he learned the artistic flavor of Detroit, both culturally and visually.    The Detroit Institute of Arts has one of the largest art collections in the United States.  While celebrating artists worldwide, it does not forget its largely minority population and responds esthetically.

Jonathan Harris attended the Detroit School of Performing Arts, Henry Ford Community College and Oakland University.  He majored in graphic design.  As an artist, he brings awareness to America's cultural differences and social inequities.   One of today's hottest social issues is "critical race theory."  Let's look at why Harris responded to it with his art.

Critical Race Theory
​

The "critical race theory" is a hot topic in 2023 America.  It means different things to different people.   Research reveals two (2) broad meanings.  People of color:  A belief that the American government (local, state and national) has historically and consistently used political, social, economic, educational and financial means to deprive people of color from achieving equal development and growth as white people.  Conservative Whites:  A belief that the concept above lacks merit, pits one group against another, perpetuates low self-esteem among whites and is the foundation of reverse discrimination against whites.   
This article only seeks to understand Artist Jonathan Harris's painting "Critical Race Theory."

The Painting

Critical Race Theory Painting:  As I stared at the white man about to cover the faces of three (3) African Americans who forcefully and positively impacted the civil rights of Blacks in America, several thoughts emerged: Does this painting represent white America "white washing" a truth both Blacks and Whites know is untrue?   Is America still holding people of color hostage and trying to hide it?  Are large segments of white America trying to "turn back the clock" and dominate all aspects of life with white supremacy?  Why do most whites continue to believe they are superior to other groups in America, built the country "all by themselves," and should have power and control over everyone else?  Does this painting represent lies, deception and ingrain racism America has and still practices?  Is this the America Harris has lived and is revealing it by displaying the artistry of Jonathan Harris?    
Based on those questions, look within yourself and honestly judge what you find.

The Artistry of Jonathan Harris

In writing this article, the writer studied several paintings by Harris.  Clearly, his mission is to place in front of the eyes of the world what he views as America's inequities, racial injustice, mental and physical enslavement of Blacks.  His work is anti-racist and he offers no apologies.  "Critical Race Theory" opened his art up to the world and his paintings make him a national and international contributor to the art world.  "Hats-off" to the "Artistry of Jonathan Harris!"
​
Footnote:  As an abstract art collector, I would love to hang one of his paintings in my living room but . . . I am sure I cannot afford one.

The beats of a drummer provide the framework of a band.  Some people liken them to the spine of a book or the foundation of a house.  This makes a drummer a significant segment of a band.  In essence, he causes the "beat to go on."   This writer is not speaking of any drummer, but Detroit's own Drummer Ron Otis.     Who is this guy?  What makes him tick?  More importantly, what makes his drum "roll?"  Hang around and find out.

Ron grew up in Detroit, went to Osborn High School on the east side of Woodward, a street that runs north and south, basically cutting the city in half.    Today, Detroit is over 77% African American with music dominating its artistic culture.   

The drum has always played an important role in American music because it was a key instrument in African American music.  Where would music rate in the world without the contributions of black Americans?  There would be no jazz, smooth jazz, spirituals, blues, rock n' roll, hip-hop, rap . . . the list is long.
Historically, Africans used drums to communicate messages in faraway places.   They have been referred to as "talking drums."  Ron makes his drums "talk."

Establishing a Drum Voice
​

 Ron Discography 
Check out Ron's Spotify Page to hear his latest recordings:
Stay in Your Lane - Take Time - Peace - Low Beat - Up Front

Ron Otis is an exceptional artist!  I was mesmerized by his graceful movements as he traveled from one drum to another!  My eyes were focused on him. . . other artists on the stage were background.  My ears enjoyed a "symphony of beats," each having a movement of its own.  Lastly, was the demeanor of the man. . . there is a detectable humility that transforms his astounding ability!   It's as though he doesn't know "how good he is."  Then . . . maybe that is what "greatness" looks like!  
The most disappointing thing about writing this article is, I have not seen Ron in a "live" concert.  That is a date I would love to see on my calendar.  As exciting, energetic and "rhythmically melodic" as Ron is via video, I know seeing him "live" would make me join the crowd in screaming for more! 
 RON OTIS: THE ASTOUNDING BEATS of a DRUMMER!

Listen to "My Turn" by Duane Parham on Radio Invasion!

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Check Out the Video B4 You Listen!

Justin Bieber, Teenage Superstar was the correct "handle" for Bieber at the tender age of 16.   Why?  Because by that time, he had released "Baby," the best-selling single in the United States of all times.  And... had made the top ten list of Forbes Magazine as "one of the most powerful celebrities" worldwide.    Additionally, Bieber's songs had charted the Billboard Hot 100 with single digits in the United States and Canada and numbered ten (10) internationally.   Young Bieber was smashing records of released music everywhere!

Youtube Discovery

Who Was Justin Bieber?

Justin, born in Ontario, Canada, was reared in humble surroundings by a single mom.  Mom's name is Pattie Mallette and Dad's name is Jack Bieber.  He has two half-brothers: Jazmyn and Jaxon and a half-sister named Bay.   Jeanne Sauve Catholic School provided an elementary education and St. Michael Secondary School ​issued his high school diploma.   It is reported he graduated with a 4.0 honor point average.
Initially, Justin was assigned to Raymond Braun Media Group, a joint venture between Braun and Usher.  Later, he signed with Island Records, which released his first single called "One Time."  Young Justin's "leap" into super stardom was fast, yet secure.   The road did not have customary rocks, curves and boulders.
​

Success is the Word

Life and Justin Bieber: Teenage Superstar

Worldwide, Justin and law enforcement have had several clashes.  In 2012, he was accused of reckless driving; he was charged with vandalism in Brazil in 2013; and was arrested in 2014 on suspicion of drunk driving in America. 
The drunk driving fiasco prompted 270,000 Americans to sign a petition requesting his deportation.  That petition went nowhere.  Apparently, drunk driving is not a basis for deportation in this country.
​

Additional Information:
​Justin:

What is Apple Music?

​With all of the Spotify "mental clogging," much of world has lost sight of Apple Music.   It is a music, audio and video streaming service developed by Apple in 2015.  Wow!  That was seven (7) years ago and in the information world that we live in, that could be construed as old.  But most Apple users know that Apple does not let any "grass grow under its feet."  That streaming service includes three (3) internet radio stations that broadcast in over 200 countries 24/7.  So, my dear readers, Apple is not old.
 

How Does Duane Parham Fit into Apple?

Click on the "Sneak Preview" on Apple:
​‎I Need a Miracle by Duane Parham on Apple Music

​

An Earlier Version of "I Need a Miracle"