To Develop: Blog 365 Day 31 – Thank you, Rick Chyme and Dave Manley


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 31 – Thank you, Rick Chyme and Dave Manley
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 31 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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Hip-hop artist Rick Chyme called me with excitement in his voice. He told me he and a producer David K. Manley were about to embark on a venture for the ages.

He disclosed the two of them were teaming up to release 365 new songs in 2018, one a day for the entire year.

But this was not just about the music, Rick said. It was about inspiring people to take daily actions to improve their lives for one year. Great idea, I told him.

Rick was the third person featured in my weekly column “ShiningExample”. I’ve known since meeting him more than a decade ago how much he values human life. He speaks encouragingly to those he encounters in normal passing, at his concerts, and during his speaking engagements.

During the call Rick said he and Manley thought of me because of how much I write. They thought to ask me to take part in their venture in whatever way I could. The idea came up to review the songs or recap their release in some way.

After a bit of pondering it hit me. I thought since they were going to record, mix and release a new song each day for all of 2018 then I’d write, edit and release a new blog everyday this year!

Thirty-one blogs later… Thank you, Rick Chyme and Dave Manley!

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

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To Develop: Blog 365 Day 30 – A January Evening in Michigan


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 30 – A January Evening in Michigan
By Jiddoe S'Phatt


Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 30 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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It was a nice day today. The sun was shining. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky. Because of this I decided to take the dog for a walk.

She and I hadn’t strolled through the neighborhood in several weeks due to the insane amounts of snow we’d received. Much to my delight a warm front melted nearly all of it.

The yards, sidewalks and streets were as clear as an empty wine glass. A January evening in Michigan that feels like spring? I’ll drink to that.

After church I did a little shopping. My first stop was the market for fruits, vegetables and a family pack of chicken wings to accompany the legs I’d planned to cook. Next I hit Big Lots for brown rice flour and a few seasonings I’d run out of.

By the time I finally arrived home the dog was excited to see me. Normally I’d fill her bowl then take her out back to relieve herself. Instead I suggested a walk which she always understands. Her ears perk, eyes widen, tail blurs because it’s wagging so fast. I clipped on her leash and we were off.

For maximum enjoyment we went the long way, enjoying the clear sunny evening.

After we got back I cooked dinner. During that time it snowed much it looked as though the insane amounts of snow had never melted.



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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

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To Develop: Blog 365 Day 29 – Don’t Be Sweaty


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 29 – Don’t Be Sweaty
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 29 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I had a conversation with Sebastian Boice on Saturday May 20, 2017. He’s a 1-year-old diagnosed with Dandy Walker and Hydrocephalus. The two of us were at Shakespeare’s Lower Level in Kalamazoo, MI for basically the same reason.

Sebastian was there as the beneficiary of Project Cypher, an annual charity concert created by hip-hop artist and philanthropist HighTyde aka Ryan Evans. All proceeds from the event go to a special needs child and their family. And for the 3rd consecutive year I served as its co-host.

When I wasn’t introducing the acts on the ticket I was mingling with their fans. I’d been running back and forth between the stage and the venue floor for a couple hours, getting quite worn out lugging my two WWE Championship belts in the process. Being the “Word Heavyweight Champion” subjects me to more than brain exercise.

I was in need of a brief brake and saw this as the perfect opportunity to get some one-on-one time with the guest of honor.

When I approached Sebastian he was relaxing in his stroller as booming music and boisterous chatter surrounded him. He appeared completely unaffected by the commotion and as cool as a Push-Up pop. 

I, on the other hand, was a sweaty mess, huffing and puffing as though I’d run several laps around Arcadia Creek Festival Place across the street. Sebastian’s mother Aixa laughed as I, completely winded, knelt next to her son.

“Hey, Sebastian,” I began, using a child-friendly tone. “I see you’re over here just chilling out. I’m all hot and sweaty right now.” He just looked at me while nibbling his blue pacifier.

“It’s loud in here, isn’t it?” I asked rhetorically while sounding a bit PBS Kids-show-goofier. “I sure hope you’re enjoying the show we’re putting on in your honor.” I was hoping I’d get a smile from him. I didn’t.

Sebastian turned his attention toward the stage as though he said, “Yes, I am enjoying the show, sweaty hosting guy. So how about you go huff and puff yourself back over there and handle the action while I hold down the chilling from here. Thank you.” I respected his suggestion. So I pulled myself up to head back to my post.

Just I was preparing to go, one of the night’s artists, Gerald “G-Ride” King, arrived stroller-side. “What’s up, Big Guy,” he said to Sebastian exuberantly. “You having a good time?” Sebastian smiled, then looked at G-Ride as though he said, “Yes I am, rapper guy. Thank you for asking and for also not getting too close while being sweaty. Are you a fan of Gerber?”

Notes for my next conversation with Sebastian Boice: Don’t use a goofy voice, honor personal space, don’t be sweaty, and try to be Gerald “G-Ride” King.
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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

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To Develop: Blog 365 Day 28 – That Little Boy Again


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 28 – That Little Boy Again
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 28 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I have terrible, sometimes debilitating stage fright.

When I was a child my mother entered me into a modeling showcase. When I heard my name I took one trembled step into view and froze. People were smiling and clapping. Cameras were flashing. After an agonizing minute or so I turned and ran back to the dressing room area. I never came back out.

I’ve stood on plenty stages since then. Most were brief appearances. Before each of them I was that little boy again.

Ryan Evens aka hip-hop artist and philanthropist HighTyde asked me to repeatedly place myself in that situation for several hours as the co-host of his annual charity concert Project Cypher. Yet, the more I thought about the reason I’d be on stage, the more I was willing to endure the symptoms that come with my stage fright.

All proceeds from Project Cypher go to a family of a special needs child. The people it benefits deal with daily circumstance far worse than my momentary sour stomach and nervous sweat. Having people stare at me is not life-threatening. Garnering attention won’t require a run of medical expenses, trips to the pharmacy, or countless hours at the mercy of medical professionals who, despite their education and training, don’t have all the answers.

I have stage fright. It flares up right before I go on to co-host Project Cypher.

Why is this an issue?

It’s not. I’m willing to get over my fear and be strong for the benefit of others.
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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

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To Develop: Blog 365 Day 27 – An Agonizing Minute


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 27 – An Agonizing Minute
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 27 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I’m already gearing up to co-host annual charity concert Project Cypher, an event created by hip-hop artist and philanthropist HighTyde to raise money for special needs children and their families. This will be my 4th consecutive year taking the stage.

Cypher V is not until May 19 but I’m nervous already.

Why?

Because I have terrible, sometimes debilitating stage fright.

When I was a child my mother entered me into a modeling showcase. Being a preppy child in an inner city school system, I was already self-conscience about my appearance. I was teased. I was called names. I was put on the spot. Unwanted attention was drawn to me.

After several rehearsals for the showcase the night finally arrived. It was time to reveal what we’d learned and look nice doing it. As I stood in a single file line waiting for my name to be called my stomach began to feel as though I had the flu. As the line got shorter my stomach got worse, and I was sweating profusely. When I heard my name I took one trembled step into view and froze.

People were smiling and clapping. Cameras were flashing. They were even saying things to me but I couldn’t hear them. All the sound was muted. It was like putty was stuffed in my ears.

After an agonizing minute or so I turned and ran back to the dressing room area. I never came back out.
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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 26 – Deeply Honored and Genuinely Terrified


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 26 – Deeply Honored and Genuinely Terrified
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 26 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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Hip-hop artist and philanthropist HighTyde just announced the recipient and lineup for his annual charity concert Project Cypher.

I’m already looking down the calendar to Project Cypher V!

It’s not until on May 19 but butterflies are already starting to form in my stomach. This marks the 4th consecutive year I’ll serve as its co-host. The event has become like a family reunion for everyone that’s been involved. The closer it gets to the date the more excited I get to see everyone.

Cypher was created by HighTyde aka Ryan Evans as a way to give back and build up the community, and to also show hip-hop culture does have a heart. All proceeds from the annual show are donated to a family with a special needs child.

When HighTyde offered me the role prior to Cypher 2 in 2015 I was both deeply honored and genuinely terrified.

My writing career has allowed me to attend some incredible public events. Being at those functions, however, doesn’t require everyone else in attendance to stare at me all at once. This is what I’ve agreed to contend with each time I co-host Cypher.

Why is this an issue?

I have terrible, sometimes debilitating stage fright.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 25 – Been on Madonna


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 25 – Been on Madonna
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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On nights when I’m up late writing, which is most nights, I’ll visit the local grocery store to get myself a treat. That’s usually cookies.

The best part of late night shopping is the store is never busy. Quieter shopping allows me to hear the music playing overhead. A bit of it is current songs, a few of the tunes are ones I’ve never heard before. The rest are old school favorites I can sing along to.

While there recently I caught ear of “Beautiful Stranger” by Madonna. I love that song!

It’s one of my 10 favorites by her, and I hadn’t heard it in a long time. I excitedly sang along as loud as I could. When it ended I started thinking about how hard the media has been on Madonna in recent years. Her Super Bowl halftime performance was ripped apart, she was ridiculed for her Billboard Awards tribute to Prince, and all people tend to say about her is how bad of a singer and performer she is.

I can remember when it felt like everyone on the planet was gushing over Madonna. She could do no wrong. And now she’s all bad? While she may not be as sharp as she used to be, she’s still one of the greatest performers of all time in my book.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 24 – Hunting for Cookies


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 24 – Hunting for Cookies
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 24 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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If you follow me on Twitter @mrjoewalker then you’re aware from time to time I tweet “a treat for you #latenight readers”.

Those are usually new articles, interviews, columns or blogs I’ve finished writing. Using brain power when you’ve been awake 19 hours requires me to eat lots of actual treats. So for a final boost of energy I’ll visit the local 24-hour grocery store in the middle of the night hunting for cookies, candy, ice cream, or a combo of all 3.

Most times it’s cookies I’m craving.

A few nights ago before making it to the cookie aisle I came across an Oreo display near the entrance. I love me some Oreo cookies. Heads or Tails – chocolate on one side, vanilla on the other – are my favorite. Lemon’s third. I also indulge on Special Edition Oreos.

Apple Pie? Yum.

Banana Split? Yummy.

Caramel Apple? Delicious.

Reese’s Peanut Cup? My second favorite Oreo.

Swedish Fish? Wait… Huh?

Latte? Umm…

Peeps???!!

They’re going too far with the Special Edition flavors now. Back to this display I encountered: it housed both Chocolate Hazelnut and Spicy Hot Cinnamon Oreos. I passed. Just the thought of these turned me off.

I bought Keebler Fudge Stripes. Yum.



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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 23 – Funny as Candy


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 23 – Funny as Candy
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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Being an entertainment writer for 20 years, I’ve been blessed to speak with some cool celebrities. Most of them I never thought I’d meet. People often ask who I’d like to interview.

John Candy. I miss him. I was such a fan of the late comedian. I imagine he would have been fun to talk to.

I was just thinking how I never watched his final film Wagons East. Can’t say his co-star Richard Lewis amused me. Candy, however, brought me countless laughs, especially when I was younger.

My cousin Neka and I would watch Who’s Harry Crumb? every chance we got, rolling on the floor with laughter each time we saw it. As funny as Candy was he could also be endearing which he showed in film Planes, Trains & Automobiles and Uncle Buck.

I remember being impressed by his serious turn as Dean Andrews Jr. in JFK. I wish he’d lived long enough to evolve like Tom Hanks did. To me Candy was an actor of the same caliber.

Armed and Dangerous was one of my favorite movies growing up. I still quote it to this day. Whenever my dog stares at me, usually when begging for food, I respond to it with “What are you looking at, you schmuck?”

I would have told John all of that.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 22 – Wipe the Grease


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 22 – Wipe the Grease
By Jiddoe S'Phatt


Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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While strolling past Bell’s Pizza in East Lansing I noticed their televisions were showing Los Angeles Lakers vs Oklahoma City Thunder. I decided to drop in, grab myself a slice to eat and watch some of this NBA match up.

I selected a piece of feta cheese and spinach which smelled divine and was incredibly greasy. After taking a seat at an empty round top I began to dig in to both the pizza and the game. OKC was up by almost 20 points until a string turnovers allowed the Lakers to bring the score within 12 for a moment.

Oklahoma’s small forward Paul George scored a 3-pointer before his point guard team mate Russell Westbrook, the league’s reigning Most Valuable Player, took over. By this point I’d eaten just over half my pizza slice. I needed a napkin to wipe the grease from my hands. As I was about stand to go get one, Westbrook broke free from his defender and dunked the ball, getting fouled in the process.

The camera zoomed in for a close-up on Westbrook’s twisted-with-aggression face just as he was spouting the F-word. He does that a lot. Westbrook plays basketball with such aggravated intensity it gives me the impression he hates having opposing defenders on his case.

I wonder how he reacts to getting pizza grease on his hands.



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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 21 – Gratitude to Each


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 21 – Gratitude to Each
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 21 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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WWE’s announcement that Bill Goldberg would be inducted into their 2018 Hall of Fame class made me want to watch some older inductions. Of ones in recent years Beth Phoenix stands out. It’s worth watching again. She gave such an inspiring induction speech.

I was a fan of the famed Glamazon from the first match of hers I watched. Beth was intimidating, could at times be very funny, and was most of all believable. She looked like she could kick anyone’s butt while also being a heartwarming hero.

Beth truly deserved to be enshrined. While at the podium she took the time to express her gratitude to each of the persons who contributed to her success.

No matter where we’re standing we should all do the same. Beth’s words were touching and classy, and an unforgettable display of sincerity. I took note.

In my 20 years as a writer I’ve been influenced, helped, inspired and given opportunities by a host of unforgettable people. If I’m lucky the day will come when I’ll stand before my family, friends and fans to accept a tangible accolade, a trophy awarded to me for my work and contributions.

I’ll be thankful.


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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.


Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 20 – Big Brown Shark


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 20 – Big Brown Shark
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 20 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I wonder what high profile role Charlie Murphy would be cast in if he was still alive. As popular as he’d become, and as long as he’d been around, he was still basically a rising star. His comedic talents were still being discovered.

Would Charlie have a role in a major movie by now? A regular role on a larger network program? Imagine him as Chidi on The Good Place. Charlie playing opposite Kristen Bell would be gold.

Picture this: Charlie Murphy portraying X-Men character Bishop in a Deadpool sequel. Or this: He and Ryan Reynolds in a remake of Silver Streak.

I was shocked to learn he passed away. I think most outside his most personal circle were. Thanks to his turn on Chappelle’s Show he stepped out of his brother’s shadow in the eyes of casual fans. Those of us who loved him as the real Gusto in CB4, or man-of-few-words Jimmy in Harlem Nights, we could argue he cast a shadow of his own.

I thought Charlie was funny before ever seeing him on television or in movies; he, according to Eddie in Delirious, his brother pooped in the bath tub then used it as a “big brown shark” in an imaginary water war. I thought that was as hilarious as it was disgusting!

I remember on a number of occasions laughing at Charlie Murphy until it hurt. Those memories are fond ones.

Rest In Peace


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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

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To Develop: Blog 365 Day 19 – Al Jarreau Was Proud of Me


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 19 – Al Jarreau Was Proud of Me
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 19 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I watched WWE Network docuseries WWE 24 about Bill Goldberg. In it he tells his son nothing compares to the feeling he gets seeing his son look at him like a real life superhero, bringing him to events people dream about, making these loving father-son memories they’ll always remember.

What Goldberg said struck a very personal chord with me. I’ve gotten to watch my son grow up at concerts and media events. While he may not see me as a superhero, and would much rather have me dancing with him all day to his favorite cartoon themes than writing, we’ve made some special father-son memories ourselves. One of those was meeting the late great Al Jarreau.

I had the blessing of interviewing Al while I was senior writer for SoulTrain.com. We spoke by phone, and he was featured in a couple of really important and memorable articles I wrote. One of those was an all-star tribute to Soul Train creator Don Cornelius. Al told me during a phone call he was proud of me.

I got to sort-of meet Al in person at Shoreline Jazz Festival 2015. Al was tired after his performance but still took time to take pictures with a number of fans. This included my then 2-year-old son, wife, and I. I never told Al who I was because I knew it would lead to an extended conversation, and I didn’t want to keep others waiting. I also knew he wanted to finish up so he could rest.

Being in his presence was great, the photo was also great, but that’s not the biggest takeaway of the day. That honor belongs to a photo of my son standing behind the stage watching Al Jarreau rock the audience.

Rest In Peace

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 18 – Be a Glimmer


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 18 – Be a Glimmer
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 18 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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There’s a really good behind-the-curtain docuseries on WWE Network called WWE 24. I just watched the episode about Bill Goldberg’s return to the company, him being awarded the Universal Championship, then dropping it to Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania.

What I enjoyed most is what happened after the Monday Night RAW following Mania. Once the show went off the air Goldberg came out to address the crowd. He’d loss the championship to Lesner, an outcome that brought an ovation. Having been universally cheered since his return after 13 years away from professional wrestling, the fans appeared to have turned on Goldberg once he won the title.

He said he accepted an opportunity to be a glimmer of the athlete and star he’d been in years past, a run in professional wrestling that made him an icon of the business. What was most important, Goldberg said, was impressing his wife and son who weren’t a part of his life in his heyday.

Then Goldberg addressed his son directly, noting how cool it felt to visit his son’s school, bringing the Universal title belt into his son’s classroom.

He spoke of how nothing could ever compare to the feeling he gets seeing his son look at him like a real life superhero, bringing him to events people dream about, making these loving father-son memories they’ll always remember.

That brought on tears from his wife, members of the audience, and me watching at home.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 17 – Honestly


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 17 – Honestly
By Jiddoe SPhatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 17 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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Since the arrival of such persons as Finn Balor, Kevin Owens, Hideo Itami, and AJ Styles to Word Wrestling Entertainment, WWE has done an improved job of acknowledging wrestlers’ accomplishments outside their company. They’ve made it important to mention these wrestlers have been world champions in other promotions.

Yet, they never mention Ron “R-Truth” Killings, a performer who has been with their promotion for several years, is 2-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion. R-Truth’s also the only African-American to hold the prestigious title, a fact WWE continues to neglect even during their Black History Month spotlights.

I have a ton of respect for Ron as a person and pro wrestler. I also support his work as a hip-hop recording artist. On top of his talents he’s just a really cool person.

I’ve interviewed him for a few feature articles during his time with TNA and WWE, also getting his insight for other stories I put together over the years. He’s been helpful and grateful each time.

Ron loves what he does, possessing a great mind for the art professional wrestling. Maybe if he, for a moment, was taken seriously by WWE writers, given a proper run at the WWE title, maybe then they’d acknowledge his other reigns at the top.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 16 – Aggressively Pursued


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 16 – Aggressively Pursued
By Jiddoe S'Phatt


Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 16 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I’ve been a Star Wars fan as long as I can remember.

The feud between characters Obi Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul quickly became one of my favorite things about the ongoing saga. So it made me both excited and sad to see their feud end on the “Twin Suns” episode of Star Wars Rebels.

Thought slain by a young Kenobi in movie Star Wars: Episode 1, Maul’s shocking return during the dreary Clone Wars series on Cartoon Network began a compelling story arc. Maul was a live, and he’d gone mad lusting to seek revenge on Kenobi for cutting him in half. He aggressively pursued Kenobi across the galaxy in hopes of cutting him down after first demoralizing him in whatever way possible.

The two clashed on Rebels in an emotional finale to their years-spanning rivalry. I’ve read complaints from viewers who thought they should have fought longer, as their last battle ended quickly. So even said Maul’s return tarnished his legacy. That didn’t make any sense to me.

In my opinion the final scuffle between Kenobi and Maul was fitting especially when accounting for how the characters aged and evolved. No complaints from me. This was wonderful storytelling. I’m satisfied.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 15 – Breakfast Cereal Served Over Ice Cream


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 15 – Breakfast Cereal Served Over Ice Cream
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 15 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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I don’t sleep much.

If I’m not awake writing I’m thinking of things I’ve written or planning to write. I have yet to determine if this is a disorder.

In between bouts with ever changing ideas I’m visiting my refrigerator or kitchen cabinets for snacks. My hope is they’ll give me a boost of energy or ideas. A few chips here, a piece of cheese there. Maybe I’ll grab a handful of chocolate chips or a sample portion of something left over from dinner. One of my favorites is dry breakfast cereal served over ice cream.

After eating I’ll return to my notebook PC with my composition notebook resting beside me. I’ll open it to peruse ideas. Too often thoughts that sounded cool initially don’t make as much since to me when revisited later. Next I take my pen in my hand to start crossing out the ideas I don’t care to indulge anymore before beginning to write new ones. This goes on for an hour or so, most times I’ll stop because I begin to crave a snack again.

Back to the kitchen I go. Maybe I’ll grab a handful of chocolate chips or a sample portion of something left over from dinner. Perhaps another helping of dry breakfast cereal served over ice cream. That’s when I really good idea will hit me!

After eating I’ll return to my notebook PC and begin to write, only to interrupt myself because I forgot to write the idea down first. Once that’s done I continue writing. This goes on for an hour or so, most times I’ll stop because I again begin to crave a snack.

I have yet to determine if this is a disorder. I don’t sleep much.

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Share your thoughts with me at info@mrjoewalker.com or on Twitter @mrjoewalker.

Visit MrJoeWalker.com for more great stories!

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 14 - Years from Now


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 14 - Years from Now
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 14 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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If I listened and took to the heart the rants of all displeased wrestling fans on the internet, then I’d feel WrestleMania 33 was an unenjoyable failure. But I don’t. I’m going to remember it years from now.

First off, anyone who thought Bill Goldberg vs Brock Lesnar for the WWE Universal Championship was going to be a lackluster match was just naysaying for the sake of naysaying. It was awesome.

Yes, these two giants clashed at WrestleMania XX 13 years ago, and it was not a great match by any means. They were both leaving the company following that match and didn’t care. It showed. But both their lives, personalities, careers, and motivations changed since then.

These two icons got a chance at a redo. They had an opportunity to give fans the match they’d dreamed about all along. And they delivered. Goldberg vs Brock was fast, hard-hitting, and just fun to watch.

The undercard was exciting too. AJ Styles and Shane McMahon tore it up to start the show. Before their clash people were too busy questioning why faced off in a Mania bout to begin with, pointing out all the reasons they shouldn’t be opponents. While doing so they neglected to consider what these two creative, risk-taking vets were capable of all along.

I’m going to remember their match years from now.

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 13 - Enjoying the Energy


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 13 - Enjoying the Energy
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 13 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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Twenty years ago I never thought I’d meet “The Magnificent” DJ Jazzy Jeff. Fast forward 2 decades and there’s a picture of he and I in the Articles section of my website!

Jeff headlined the official after party of “Irish on the Ionia” at The Intersection in Grand Rapids, MI last year March. It’s an event I’ll always remember. LiquidAE.com named it one of the 10 Best Events of 2017.

The concert was beyond great. Everyone on the bill – DJs Dreas, Dean Martian, Omega Supreme, and the magnificent one - gave the raucous audience exceedingly more bang for their bucks. I talked about it in greater detail in my LiquidAE.com recap of the event. I had such I good time enjoying the energy of the crowd, the music, and that moment in time.

Then I got to sit and talk with Jazzy Jeff which made the night extra special several times over. As I walked to the backstage lounge, an area my partner Doug and I frequented most of the night, it felt like how I imagine it feels to someone headed to the stage to claim their Grammy award.

For a moment I couldn’t hear anything around me. I only saw what was waiting ahead – a smiling familiar face that, as a kid, I never thought I’d see in person. But there he was. We had a great interview.

To Develop: Blog 365 Day 12 - Triple Shots


To Develop: Blog 365 Day 12 - Triple Shots
By Jiddoe S'Phatt

Warmest greetings! My name is Jiddoe S’Phatt. Welcome to day 12 of “To Develop: Blog 365”.

Inspiration to write comes from a number of places. For this blog I’ve been inspired by hip-hop artist Rick Chyme and producer David K. Manley of Man@Work Productions. Through a collaborative project titled #DailyPieces365 these two artists will release a new song every day for the next 365 consecutive days! Their impressive dedication has motivated me to write a new blog every day of 2018.

A little piece of me goes into each entry I write. I hope you enjoy this one!

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It took me nearly 2 years to beat the Nintendo game Blaster Master. I played it so much, and for so long, my NES console should have melted from heat exhaustion with the cartridge still inside. In eighth grade I stayed home “sick” to give it another crack and was finally victorious.

Thirty-two years later I still have yet to defeat the original Castlevania.

I played sick for this one once too. The object of the game is to defeat Count Dracula, but first you must survive all the traps and monsters lurking inside and outside his castle. Clearly it’s not an easy task when you consider the fact this neck-biting 8-bit villain has managed to remain nearly unbeaten for 3 decades.

I stayed home hoping for another day of hooky magic. My biggest opposition on Castlevania up to that point was Grim Reaper. The stage boss before Dracula, Reaper was immensely difficult to take down. For this fight I had nearly full health while wielding boomerangs with Triple Shots – a power-up that allowed you to throw 3 weapons at once.

Previous losses to Reaper brought on real tears of frustration. Finally defeating him almost made me cry as well. After that I had no intention of battling him again. I was going to beat Dracula and retire this darn game.

I unexpectedly breezed through the final stage for a shot at the vampire. Tossing my trusty boomerangs 3-at-a-time I toppled Dracula in a close battle.

But it wasn’t over.

Dracula rose from the dead, transformed into this giant werewolf-like creature, and took me out before I could fully process what happened.