tag:nailahporter.com,2005:/blogs/blog?p=4BLOG2017-02-04T08:24:42-08:00Nailah Porterfalsetag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/34421792014-12-27T16:09:48-08:002017-02-04T08:24:42-08:00Home Again... <div class="captioned justify_left"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/35a2a56e32b460ce7a3fc2a1e51f7b636046c94f/large/10847576-10204425366425716-553527213669130160-o.jpg?1419724690" class="size_orig justify_left border_" /><p class="caption">w/ Rob McDonald, Seth Horan, David Leach, Deron Johnson #ThursdaySessions #Dec2014</p></div><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/c55ceaa5e94119193465ae41b8d287bc88b9ca28/large/1900590-10204369195181470-786027915697720507-o.jpg?1419725189" class="size_l justify_left border_" />Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/31519692014-08-23T13:12:31-07:002017-02-04T00:28:09-08:00SEE YOU AT RAJ 14 FESTIVAL<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/08752cf74ce62e3c5acf983a33bddef47c21b518/medium/images-51.jpeg?1408825187" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br><br><span class="font_large">ABBEY LINCOLN</span> said "I no longer scream about my life...I sing." Although there is plenty to scream about these days, I'm honoring her advice next Saturday, August 30th with Deron Johnson (piano), Tony Austin (drums), Edwin Livingston (bass) and Kamasi Washington (sax) at the <a contents="RHYTHM AND JOY FESTIVAL " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rajfestival.com" target="_blank">RHYTHM AND JOY FESTIVAL </a>in Warner Center Park, Woodland Hills. It's a short set that begins at 12:45pm sharp, so get there early.<br><br><a contents="The RAJ 14 Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rajfestival.com" target="_blank">RAJ 14 Festival</a>, founded by Rickie Byars Beckwith, is a soulful celebration of the impact of music as a catalyst for change. I had the pleasure of participating last year, and am honored to be a part of the festival this year. RAJ will be filled with conscious beautiful people of all ages with wonderful activities and performances...musicians, artists, the healing arts, a sustainable marketplace, the Kid's Village and more. <br>RAJ Festival is FREE...but there are also VIP packages available for reserved seating, parking, etc!!! The festival will be held at the Valley Cultural Center at the beautiful Lou Bredlow Pavilion in Warner Park at 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., in Woodland Hills. There is plenty of room for a late afternoon picnic with the family while being entertained. See you there!!! RAJ ON!!! #RAJ14 <br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rajfestival.com" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/0106a093423adc02056ce1bb541e5998efea899a/original/raj-14-poster.jpg?1408824576" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/17351722013-09-28T13:56:33-07:002017-02-02T06:44:34-08:00LA PERFORMANCE - RAJ FESTIVAL - OCT 5th - 4:30pm<div style="text-align: center; ">
<br><strong><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span class="font_large">RHYTHM AND JOY FESTIVAL OCTOBER 4th, 5th and 6th</span></span></strong>
</div> <br> <br><strong>If you're into music that comes from the Soul...Urban Contemporary, ROOTS, World Music, R&B Soul, Spoken word, Dance, Yoga and Jazz...then you should join us at the Rhythm and Joy Festival (RAJ)!!! Come share a moment with me, Deron Johnson (piano), Ian Martin (bass) and Tony Austin (drums) on Saturday, October 5th at 4:30pm. We're playing a few old tunes and some new music from my forthcoming CD!!! </strong><br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rajfestival.com/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/efa107ab637fe5849da4ea97adc8caed05de6fb9/original/raj-jazz4x6-front.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></a><strong>Rickie Byars Beckwith, creator of RAJ</strong>, <strong>refers to Rhythm and Joy as "a description of music that comes from the Soul to make the world a happier place." The three-day festival will provide "a place to connect in the soul and celebrate what is more alike than different about us." <br> <br>Nestled in the sweeping vistas of the Santa Susana Mountains of Simi Valley, less than an hour from LA on the grounds of <a href="http://www.hummingbirdnestranch.com/">Hummingbird Nest Ranch</a>, the festival will also feature leading edge speakers, gourmet local “whole“ food trucks, sustainable products and vendors, the healing arts and overnight camping. </strong><br> <br><strong><span style="color:#FF0000;">FRIENDS DISCOUNT: We perform on Saturday, Oct. 5th at 4:30pm and my friends are being offered a </span><a href="http://www.rajfestival.com/tickets.html"><span style="color:#FF0000;">SPECIAL DISCOUNT TICKET RATE</span></a><span style="color:#FF0000;"> of $50 one day or $150 for three days!! Click </span><a href="http://myemail.constantcontact.com/RAJ---.html?soid=1112203023472&aid=qUNkH2jcmm4"><span style="color:#FF0000;">here</span></a><span style="color:#FF0000;"> for more details and ticket information!! </span></strong><br> <br><strong>Check out <a href="http://www.rajfestival.com/">RAJ</a> for the entire 3 days...and definitely join me, Deron Johnson, Ian Martin and Tony Austin on Saturday!!! We'd LOVE to see you. </strong><br> <br> <br> <div><strong><a href="http://myemail.constantcontact.com/RAJ---.html?soid=1112203023472&aid=qUNkH2jcmm4">The Rhythm & Joy Music Festival</a><br><a href="http://www.hummingbirdnestranch.com/">Humming Bird Nest Ranch</a><br>2940 Kuehner Drive<br>Santa Susana (Simi Valley), CA 93063</strong></div>
<div><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://myemail.constantcontact.com/RAJ---.html?soid=1112203023472&aid=qUNkH2jcmm4" target="_blank"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/8478b923df47c83a962ce82d2c44d9db97da8092/original/raj-lineup.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" /></strong></a></div><br> Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/16062232013-09-12T10:43:34-07:002023-12-10T08:30:08-08:00RHYTHM AND JOY FESTIVAL (RAJ)<div>So happy to be sharing the stage with consious artists who are dedicated to truth and lifting the vibration. Please join us for:</div>
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<div style="text-align: center; "><span class="font_large"><strong>THE RHYTHM AND JOY FESTIVAL (RAJ)<br>3 DAYS • 3 STAGES • POWERFUL MUSIC<br>ONSITE CAMPING</strong></span></div>
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<br><strong>Come for the music, leave changed forever!!!<br>For more info: <a href="http://www.rajfestival.com/" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: rgb(59, 89, 152); cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; " target="_blank">www.rajfestival.com</a><br>For tix: <a href="http://brightstarevents.net/enhancedArtist.cfm?id=291" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: rgb(59, 89, 152); cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; " target="_blank"><span>http://</span><wbr></wbr><span>brightstarevents.net/</span><wbr></wbr>enhancedArtist.cfm?id=291</a> </strong>
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<div class="_n9" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;display: table-cell; vertical-align: middle; width: 1146px; "> </div>
<p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/9e551dc806fa6b65597df3f79cc441003c139195/original/1187044-592738014098369-1818102256-n.jpg?1379007485" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/15198412013-08-31T22:42:05-07:002017-02-02T04:17:37-08:00GETAWAY<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.getawaymovie.com/" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/1c70ad802dbc2e1bfc78a730c318857df216087c/original/fb-1.jpg?1378015336" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a><br><br>Had a blast recording a couple of songs for <a contents="GETAWAY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.getawaymovie.com/" target="_blank"><strong>GETAWAY</strong>,</a> a gritty, heart-pounding action thriller starring Academy Award® nominee<strong> ETHAN HAWKE</strong> (“Training Day,” “The Purge,” “Before Midnight”), actress and international music sensation <strong>SELENA GOMEZ </strong>(“Springbreakers,” “Wizards of Waverly Place”), and Academy Award® winner <strong>JON VOIGHT </strong>(“Coming Home,” the “National Treasure” films). The film is directed by Courtney Solomon (“An American Haunting”). <br><br>Working on the <a contents="GETAWAY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.getawaymovie.com/" target="_blank"><strong>GETAWAY</strong></a> soundtrack with <strong>JUSTIN BURNETT</strong> and <strong>MICHAEL BRADFORD</strong> was so much fun and I can't wait to see it on the big screen. The film opened August 30th and from the looks of the trailer, it's gonna be a crazy experience with lots of fast cars. My daughter LOVES Selena Gomez and my son LOVES cars and chase scenes...so this will be a <span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>very</strong></span> cool hang for us...LOL!!! Hope you get to check it out!!!<br><br>NP<br><br> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/7ZF4jzMJ1oI" width="853"></iframe>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/10549542013-07-02T01:55:08-07:002017-02-02T00:09:50-08:00Thank you Congressman William H. Gray, 3rd<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/8c31a05603c3eb4235e39621e1fbeb7c2d7e1a04/original/Rep-BillGray.jpeg?1372870667" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="238" width="176" /><br><br>
Got a call yesterday about the passing of Congressman William H. Gray, 3rd...an amazing leader, preacher, master politician and pillar in the community. In Congress, Bill Gray rose to become Majority Whip of the House of Representatives, the first African American in the 20th century to assume that leadership post. He served as chair of the powerful Budget Committee, was a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Foreign Operations, and he was the leader of Philadelphia's prestigious Bright Hope Baptist Church. He left Congress to run the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), where he raised MILLIONS of dollars to educate black youth. We have all been touched in some way by his work and benefit from his legacy. <br><br>
The day before Rep. Gray passed away, I was at a BBQ chatting with his daughter-in-law about his trip to London with his sons to see Wimbledon. He was an avid tennis player and fan. I was watching my daughter play in the pool with his grandchildren, thinking of how it was a full circle moment for me. On Monday, I was told he passed away while in London. My heart sank. <br><br>
Being a political animal, Washington, D.C. was mecca for me. I was hired by Rep. Gray as a staff attorney...but a few days later the stock market crashed and the government implemented "freeze" prevented me from joining his staff. I was told to wait it out...but student loans and my desire to eat won out. and fortunately, I was hired by Hubert Williams at the Police Foundation. <br><br>
There will always be a special place in my heart for Rep. Bill Gray...just as there is for Hubert Williams. Two trailblazers who gave someone fresh out of law school a shot at making a difference and having a better life. That being said, I'm sending prayers to the Gray family, members of Bright Hope Baptist Church, the city of Philadelphia and to all who loved him. Another Hero has fallen...a humanitarian who cared about his people...all people. I salute you Sir and am eternally grateful for your presence and work on the planet...we are better because you were here. THANK YOU, SIR.<br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/5219492013-04-12T18:45:00-07:002017-02-01T20:13:00-08:00CHILDREN OF WAR Screening in Los Angeles <div style="text-align: center; "><a target="_new" href="http://www.childrenofwarfilm.com/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/f5fc19ca3325c87033f435528cce806fd1ddccee/medium/ChildrenOfWar.Flyer.png?1376576912" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="573" width="300" /><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b><br></b><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); "><b>CHILDREN OF WAR - LOS ANGELES SCREENING<br>
THIS SATURDAY, April 13th, 7:30pm <br>
Ticket: $11.00<br>
The Aero Theatre <br>
1328 Montana Ave.<br>
Santa Monica, CA 90403<br>
(310) 260-1528</b></span></span></a></div>
<br><b>It's been a while I know</b>...and I hope this finds you happy and thriving. If you're in the Los Angeles area, I'd like to personally invite you to a screening of the award-winning film SATURDAY (April 13th), 7:30pm at the AERO THEATER in Santa Monica. It would be great to see you and catch up!!! Also, feel free to share information about this film via your social media sites. <br><br><b><a target="_new" href="http://www.childrenofwarfilm.com/">CHILDREN OF WAR</a></b>, a film produced and directed by <b><a target="_new" href="http://www.childrenofwarfilm.com/home.html">BRYAN SINGLE</a></b>. This documentary, filmed in the war zone of northern Uganda, follows a group of child soldiers as they exit the battlefield, enter the sanctuary of a rehabilitation center and undergo a remarkable process of trauma therapy and emotional healing. <br><br><b><a target="_new" href="http://childrenofpeaceuganda.com/">CHILDREN OF PEACE UGANDA</a></b>, an organization founded by <b><a target="_new" href="http://childrenofpeaceuganda.com/our-team/">JANE EKAYU</a></b>, who is featured in the film working at the Rachele Rehabilitation Centre in Northern Uganda as a trauma therapist for former child soldiers rescued from the Lords’ Resistance Army. <br><br>
This film is incredibly moving and it's been such a humbling experience spending time with Jane and listening to her story. Not only is she an inspiration, but Jane is a living example of compassion, forgiveness, determination and Love. <br><br>
One more thing...Bryan and Jane will be present for a Q&A following the screening and a special performance by percussionist <b>LEON MOBLEY</b>, poet <b>PETER J. HARRIS</b>, guitarist <b>DAVID NEAL</b> and me!!! Hope you can join us!!!<span style="font-size: larger; "><b><font class="Apple-style-span" color="#ff0000"><br></font> </b></span> <br>
blesSINGS...<br>
Nai <br><br><br type="_moz"><br>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/2424972012-10-29T03:15:00-07:002017-02-01T16:20:20-08:00Thank You For The Music Mr. Terry CallierSo sad to hear the news of Terry Callier's passing this weekend. His music has carried me and his voice has been a beacon of Light...guiding my Spirt through the sad times. His artistry fed me...gave me hope and more. All of the Heavens and Celestial Beings are celebrating his arrival...Home. <br><br><br><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FJ2Q2B-imIM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/2030132012-08-21T12:20:00-07:002021-05-17T01:22:39-07:00A Concert for Peace with Dwight Trible and the Cosmic Band<span style="font-size: larger; ">Honored to be joining Dwight Trible and the Cosmic Band for "<b>A Concert for Peace</b>" at The Agape International Spiritual Center, Sunday, September 9th, at 3pm. I'll be singing a couple of songs with guitarist Miles Joseph...before Dwight Trible and the Cosmic Band take the stage for a full concert. <br><br>
Tickets can be purchased at </span><a href="./tour.cfm"><span style="font-size: larger; ">AgapeLive.com</span></a><span style="font-size: larger; ">.</span><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/3c18f5b68995ab8c6b72ce321fc1a2cceebf54f4/large/ConcertForPeace.Final.Flyer.jpg?1376576912" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="471" width="600" /><br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1930222012-07-24T19:26:56-07:002017-02-01T15:25:20-08:00Still Floating... <span style="font-size: medium; ">The tribute to the Life and Legacy of Gil Scott-Heron felt like a Spiritual awakening of some sort. My soul was transported and I felt connected to Gil and Brian Jackson's music in a way that took me back to the very first moment I heard it. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/33daeffc3f956aa6de99de923f479ab8ff26108e/large/NAI.Brian.Gil.FullShot.jpg?1376576912" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="400" width="600" /><br type="_moz"><br></span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1816642012-06-21T02:35:00-07:002017-02-01T15:11:23-08:00PEACE GO WITH YOU, GIL: A Celebration of Gil Scott-Heron (Friday, July 20th)<span style="font-size: larger; "><b>How lucky am I that I get to participate in another tribute to the life, work and music of Gil Scott-Heron??!!! And I get to do it again with BRIAN JACKSON, his long-time collaborator and partner. Another great detail...the FREE CONCERT will be held under the stars at <br><a target="_new" href="http://www.grandperformances.org/en/gp/homepage.html">GrandPerformances/CaliforniaPlaza</a> on a lovely summer evening, JULY 20TH!!! </b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>COME</b></span><b> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">EARLY</span>!!!</b></span><span style="font-size: x-large; "><b><br><br>
<a target="_new" href="http://www.giantstep.net/events/1533"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/fbb6621603b12e0f319f3343ea431215b326425c/large/GSH.Flyer.Final.jpg?1376576912" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="429" width="600" /></a> <br><span style="font-size: medium; "><br>
The Revolution will be coming to you Live right in the heart of Downtown LA, in this celebration of the late great Gil Scott-Heron’s legacy. Two very distinct and unique sets exploring the soul, vitality, power, humor, social activism, humanity and fiery messages of the classics...with very special guests BRIAN JACKSON and GIA SCOTT-HERON!!!</span><span style="font-size: medium; "><br></span><br>
PEACE GO WITH YOU, GIL features:<br>
-----------------------------<br><span style="font-size: large; ">Alan Lightner (steel pan, percussion, vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Bobbito Garcia a.k.a Kool Bob Love (spoken word)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Carlos Niño (percussion)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Derf Reklaw (hand drums, flute)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Dexter Story (music director, misc instruments)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Dwight Trible (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Elizabeth Lea (trombone)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Geoff "Double G" Gallegos (baritone/alto, guest arranger)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Gina Loring (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Jeremy Sole (DJ, narrative)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Jimetta Rose Smith (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Joshua Silverstein (beat box, spoken word)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Kamasi Washington (tenor sax)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Love-Logiq (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Marcel Carmago (guitar)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Mark de Clive-Lowe (keys, piano, electronics)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Miguel Atwood-Ferguson (viola, guest arranger)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Nailah Porter (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Nia Andrews (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Professor Nalepa (visual narrative)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Rich Medina (narrative, spoken word)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Roger Guenveur Smith (spoken word)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Shafiq Husayn (vocals)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Todd Simon (trumpet, flugelhorn, guest arranger)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Tony Austin (drums)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Tracy Wannomae (flute, woodwinds)<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Trevor Ware (bass)<br></span><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><span style="font-size: medium; ">with</span></span><span style="font-size: medium; ">:</span><br><span style="font-size: medium; ">* HIT + RUN live screen-printing : bring your fave shirt or get a new fresh T printed !<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: medium; ">* The Last Holiday : A Memoir on sale from Grove/Atlantic books<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: medium; ">* GIL 180 gram vinyl + rare vintage gems & CD's on sale from AMOEBA<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: medium; ">* Be healthy and eco-friendly and Ride your Bike on in<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: medium; ">The Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC) will have a bike valet set up on our plaza at this event.<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: large; "><br><span style="font-size: small; ">Curated and produced by JONATHAN RUDNICK, co-founder of GIANT STEP, and one of the creative minds behind SCORED music in film; theLIFT and NOISE POP Culture Club - stay tuned for updates as the Revolution is Revolutionized.<br></span> </span><br><span style="font-size: small; ">Supported by:<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: small; ">KPFK 90.7 FM / FUSICOLOGY / LA CANVAS / GIANT STEP / HVW8 / <br></span><span style="font-size: large; "> </span><span style="font-size: large; "></span><br><span style="font-size: large; ">Free RSVP on </span><a target="_new" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/246816338761748/259043460872369/?notif_t=plan_mall_activity"><span style="font-size: large; ">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-size: large; "><br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Show Starts At: 08:00 PM <br></span><span style="font-size: large; "><br></span><span style="font-size: large; "><a target="_new" href="http://www.grandperformances.org/en/gp/homepage.html">Grand Performances<br></a></span><span style="font-size: large; ">350 S. Grand Ave<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">Los Angeles, California 90071<br></span><span style="font-size: large; ">ph 213.687.2190<br></span><span style="font-size: large; "><a target="_new" href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=350+S.+Grand+Ave+Los+Angeles+California+90071">View online map<br></a></span></b><br></span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1638712012-05-03T06:15:00-07:002017-02-01T14:41:46-08:00ORACLES AND THE METHODOLOGY OF AUTOPHYSIOPSYCHIC MUSIC <span style="font-size: medium; "><b>Certain people and Spirits keep popping up for me lately...some linger with long conversations...others give me a message and are quickly gone like UFO sightings. I have come to understand that the visits are about the connection...the revelation...the Spirit of the Moment. <br><br>
This Oracle showed up today, teaching me so much about Life, Music and quest for Wholeness through his teachings on the Methodology of Autophysiopyschic Music. And then I found this INCREDIBLE photograph of him....which speaks volumes. <br><br>
I HEAR YOU BROTHAH YUSEF...<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">LOUD AND CLEAR</span>!!!</b></span><span style="font-size: xx-large; "><font class="Apple-style-span" color="#ff0000"><b><br></b></font></span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/a95ddda20fd9910b66501b12aba590651f762bdd/original/YusefLateef.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="772" width="576" /> Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1629622012-05-01T05:00:00-07:002017-02-01T14:40:12-08:00Billy Childs PBS Special...<b><span style="font-size: medium; ">Just in case you missed the show when it aired, I wanted to share this video with you. Check out Billy Childs Jazz/Chamber Ensemble with the Calder Quartet performing "Into The Light" from the PBS Special Laguna Beach Live...<br><br><br type="_moz"></span></b> <iframe width="853" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MaYGYVEZmTI?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1621692012-04-29T06:25:00-07:002012-04-29T06:25:00-07:00Pure Magic<span style="font-size: medium; "><b>Had an absolute blast at Vitello's last night sharing the stage with Billy Childs, Kamasi Washington, Tony Austin and Edwin Livingston. I felt like we were transported to some mystical place where everyone understood each other instinctively. We simply trusted the music and allowed Spirit to have It's way. I am so thankful for that experience and look forward to sharing more magical moments like that. <br><br>
Thanks to everyone who came out...your presence made the night a very special one indeed. I also wanna give a special shout out to April Williams and the staff at Vitello's for the wonderful service, excellent food and wine, and the AMAZING sound (thanks Paul). <br><br>
blesSINGS...<br>
NP</b></span><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1621532012-04-29T05:00:00-07:002017-02-01T14:38:43-08:00NEXT!!!<span style="font-size: medium; "><b>Looking forward to performing with BRIAN JACKSON for the GIL SCOTT HERON TRIBUTE next Sunday, May 6th, 5pm at Club Nokia. You have no idea how excited I am!!!!<br><br><a target="_new" href="http://www.kpfk.org/press-releases/5512-2nd-annual-hero-awards.html"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/28b989d0ead683d93c57f5b93dcb893c1e07adea/original/HERO.KPFK.Final.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="831" width="681" /></a><br type="_moz"></b></span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1619652012-04-28T03:25:00-07:002017-02-01T14:38:18-08:00SOOO EXCITED ABOUT TONIGHT!!!<span style="font-size: larger; "><b>Well the day has arrived and yes...I have goosebumps and all...but I'm SOOOO HAPPY!!! Rehearsals have been fun and I've left each one feeling excited and with a deeper understanding of what happens when you trust and allow things to unfold perfectly. <br><br>
It's a gorgeous day in LA and what better way to end this Saturday than with a good glass of wine (or 2), great food and beautiful music. <a target="_new" href="http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/">Join us at Vitello's at 8pm!!!</a> Doors open at 7pm and there's still time to make <a target="_new" href="http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/">reservations</a>. I'm really looking forward to sharing the moment with everyone...<br><br>
blesSINGS...<br>
NP<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/0414f00f8fe7a1a461696d113d725d798cd11164/original/Porter.Vitellos.Final.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="800" width="500" /><br type="_moz"></b></span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1567742012-04-11T21:45:00-07:002017-02-01T14:29:40-08:00CLASSIC NINA SIMONE<iframe width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DtOKYXYStmU?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <iframe width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R96jRnBYymU?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1555402012-04-07T06:40:00-07:002017-02-01T14:27:29-08:00LA CONCERT AT VITELLO'S - Sat., April 28th, 8pm <span style="font-size: x-large; "><b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">Happy Holidays </span></b></span><b><span style="font-size: large; "></span></b><span style="font-size: large; "></span> <br><br><span style="font-size: medium; ">Whether it be Easter, Passover, Full Moon, the end of Lent, even Spring Break...whatever you're celebrating I wish you joy. <br><br>
I decided to go vegan for Lent and it hasn't been without challenges. I've been vegan before, but for some reason, this time was more intense and very difficult some days. It's not that I missed eating meat...I think I just missed feeling "satisfied"...and I especially missed my morning lattes with Harry at L'Epicerie. Without dairy there's no point in having a latte, because as much as I try, soy just does not cut it for me. Lattes aside, some great things came out of my fasting. A deeper awareness of and appreciation for Life...all aspects of It. What needs to be released...what needs to change...where should I focus my attention and what should I trust. A lot of time spent listening for answers...but also sitting with the questions. All in all, I've learned to embrace the woman I am, but more importantly, the woman I'm becoming. <br><br>
Life is not without its challenges and I've experienced some major asskickings these past few years that I like to refer to as "growing pains". Of all the advice I received, what stands out most is a conversation with <b>Dwight Trible. </b> He said "<b>trust the music Nailah</b>". But I wanted to scream..."how can I do this when I can't even hear the music DWIGHT???!!!". And when I could finally "hear" music again, I wasn't strong or brave enough to give voice to what was coming through. Much too honest and waaaaaay too painful. Somedays I still don't feel that strong or brave...but my trust factor is way up. <br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>"I don't scream anymore, I sing about my life." <br></b></span><b>- <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">Abbey Lincoln</span> </b> <br><br>
My perception is also shifting. I haven't performed in LA since December 2009 and it's time to "<b>trust the music</b>". Please join me on </span><span style="font-size: small; "><a target="_new" href="http://vitellosjazz.com/"><span style="font-size: medium; "><b>Saturday, April 28th at Vitello'</b>s</span></a><span style="font-size: medium; "> featuring Grammy winning pianist/composer, </span><a target="_new" href="http://billychilds.com/"><span style="font-size: medium; "><b>Billy Childs</b></span></a><span style="font-size: medium; ">. We'll be performing songs from my EmArcy debut album, "</span><a target="_new" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/conjazzness/id431852014"><span style="font-size: medium; ">ConJazzNess</span></a><span style="font-size: medium; ">," in a very intimate setting and sharing some new songs as well. <br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>Tickets - $25 / Show - 8pm (Doors open at 7pm)<br></b></span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b><span style="font-size: medium; "><a target="_new" href="http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=4478985">CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS</a></span></b></span></span><span style="font-size: medium; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">.</span> <br><br><a target="_new" href="http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/0414f00f8fe7a1a461696d113d725d798cd11164/medium/Porter.Vitellos.Final.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="480" width="300" /></a><br><br>
Looking forward to spending an evening with you at Vitello's...sharing some music and hopefully a glass of wine (or two).<br><br>
blesSINGS...<br>
NP</span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1484342012-03-15T14:00:00-07:002017-02-01T14:13:55-08:00NEW DATE ADDED ~ LIVE AT VITELLO'S, APRIL 28TH, 8PM<a target="_new" href="http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/">www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/</a><span style="font-size: larger; "><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/0414f00f8fe7a1a461696d113d725d798cd11164/original/Porter.Vitellos.Final.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="800" width="500" /><br><br>
Join me on Saturday, April 28th, </span><span style="font-size: larger; "><a target="_new" href="http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/nailah-porter-featuring-billy-childs/">Upstairs at Vitello's Jazz and Supper Club</a> (Studio City)</span><span style="font-size: larger; ">, featuring the one and only </span><a target="_new" href="http://billychilds.com/"><span style="font-size: larger; "><b>Billy Childs</b></span></a><span style="font-size: larger; "> on piano, Marvin Smitty Smith - drums, Edwin Livingston - bass, and Bob Reynolds - sax. It's been a minute since I performed in Los Angeles and I'm really excited!!! Looking forward to spending a magical evening with you at Vitello's!!! <br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); "><b>Upstairs at Vitello's Jazz and Supper Club<br>
4349 Tujunga Avenue<br>
Studio City, CA 91604<br>
818.769.0905<br>
Saturday, April 28, 2012 @ 8pm<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/86c56643021d750d52279ade45f5895b0a77d17b/original/Billy.Nai.Marvin22Smitty22-Smith.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="332" width="432" /><br type="_moz"></b></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); "></span> <b><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Billy Childs, Nailah and Marvin "Smitty" Smith</span></b><br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1368472012-01-30T13:35:00-08:002012-01-30T13:35:00-08:00ConJazzNess Now Available on iTunes!!!<span style="font-size: larger; ">I am happy to announce that "<b>ConJazzNess</b>" is now available on <b>iTunes </b>in the United States. So for all you folks who experienced "sticker shock" when looking at the import price, you can now </span><a target="_new" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/conjazzness/id431852014"><b><span style="font-size: larger; ">download the CD for $9.99</span></b></a><span style="font-size: larger; ">. Thanks for your continued show of support and PLEASE spread the word. I'm telling everybody I know...LOL!!! </span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1326922012-01-09T03:15:00-08:002017-02-01T13:46:18-08:00FULL MOON WITH AMIRI BARAKA AND ABBEY LINCOLN <span style="font-size: larger; "><b>AMAZING DAY!!</b>! Decided to have "church" with art, literature and music....so I attended the "<b>Now Dig This</b>" exhibit (for a second time) at the UCLA Hammer Museum, curated by Amiri Baraka's daughter, Kellie Jones, a writer and art historian in her own right. Got a chance to briefly chat with Mr. Baraka after listening to him share his thoughts on America, African American Art and the struggle of being an artist in America. Picked up a copy of "<b>Somebody Blew Up America</b>" and was honored that he autographed it for me. I also gave him a copy of my CD. <br><br>
Afterwards, I drove home guided by a beautiful full moon while listening to <b>Abbey Lincoln</b>. Everything in the Universe felt like it had been turned right side up again...</span> <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/33d74a164553c8e4cdfd84c2864f4a1514ecb95e/large/Nai.AmiriBaraka.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="450" width="600" /><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1319092012-01-04T05:25:00-08:002017-02-01T13:44:56-08:00NINA SIMONE TRIBUTE<span style="font-size: medium; ">Hope you had a wonderful Holiday Season and that you entered 2012 with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to that which makes your heart sing. Although music is my first love, I'm on a mission this year to tap into other things that bring me joy and inspiration and I ask that you join me in that quest. No matter our "perceived" challenges, let's pledge to discover what makes our hearts sing and GO FOR IT!!!<br><br>
I had the pleasure of bringing 2011 to a close doing what I love most...singing. It was an honor performing at the <a target="_new" href="http://www.lulawashington.org/">Lula Washington</a> Kwanzaa Celebration...a moment that deepened my commitment to creating, sharing and living from that Sacred space which feeds my soul. <br><br>
To that end, I wanted to share this <b>Freedom Jazz Movement</b> video of the Nina Simone tribute featuring dancer Tamica Washington-Miller (Lula Washington's daughter), Edwin Livingston on bass, Marcus L. Miller on percussion, and yours truly on vocals. Check out the photo of me with the Great Lula Washington!!! <br><br>
Remember...whatever makes your heart sing...GO FOR IT!!! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/ad7b8d67c6890e871e951cad6ce31b0a9c537064/large/Nai.LulaWashington.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="300" width="400" /><br><br>
blesSINGS...<br>
NP<br><br><br><br></span> <br><br><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wNLZnmWymbk?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1314192012-01-02T02:20:00-08:002021-04-21T13:10:44-07:00HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Gonna Dance And Laugh My Way Thru 2012 <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/fdbeb28ca2e390dd7706b4a2e752c5167a807b8a/large/Nai.Laughing.jpg?1376576911" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="447" width="600" /><br><br><span style="font-size: medium; ">Last year I committed to laughing my way thru 2011. I had some amazing moments filled with laughter thanks to family, friends and my amazing bandmates. <b>This year I will DANCE my way thru 2012...I will dance and laugh and sing and cry more tears of joy and smile AND FLY!!! </b> </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><span style="font-size: medium; ">#CleaningOffMyWings #StillCommittedToJoy</span></span>6:22Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1165722011-09-29T20:46:02-07:002017-02-01T13:18:39-08:00Kritiker-Liebling und Super-Mutti Nailah Porter kommt nach Deutschlandhttp 30.09.2011 <br>
NAILAH PORTER<br><a target="_new" href="http://www.universal-music.de/home/jazz/news/article:202116/kritiker-liebling-und-super-mutti-nailah-porter-kommt-nach-deutschland">http://www.universal-music.de/home/jazz/news/article:202116/kritiker-liebling-und-super-mutti-nailah-porter-kommt-nach-deutschland<br><br></a><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/d6428f88afe34f8446dd5e6b879f1e82ef8ce911/large/Nailah-Porter-c-Logan-Alexander.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="372" width="600" /><br><br>
Mit ihrem Debüt-Album „ConJazzNess“ kam Sängerin Nailah Porter Anfang des Jahres für viele hiesige Fans wie aus dem Nichts. Doch weit gefehlt, in ihrer amerikanischen Heimat galt sie längst als Geheim-Tipp.<br>
LA Weekly schwärmte von der „rauen, aber seidigen Mischung aus Sarah Vaughan und Cassandra Wilson“ und die Jazz Times von ihrer „Traumstimme mit Persönlichkeit“. Im Chor der Porter-Fans waren auch Prominente wie DJ Gilles Peterson („Stimme des Jahres“) und Musiker Billy Childs („Visionärin mit zeitloser Musik“) zu vernehmen. Die deutschen Medien urteilten nach der hiesigen Veröffentlichung ihres Albums und Live-Auftritten mit der Nicola-Conte-Combo dann ebenso positiv.<br>
Jetzt ist Nailah Porter das erste Mal in Deutschland und Österreich solistisch zu erleben. Auf der Bühne fühlt sie sich nach eigenem Vernehmen wohler als im Musikstudio: „Hier kann ich alle Facetten meiner Musik ohne Fesseln präsentieren“. Fans von erstklassigem Vocal-Jazz sollten sich die Konzerte daher nicht entgehen lassen.<br>
Zur Einstimmung auf die vielschichtige Sängerin bietet sich deren Blog an, auf dem sie nicht nur über Musik, sondern auch Politik, Reisestress, gutes Essen und ihre Kinder berichtet.<br>
Nailah Porter auf Tour:<br>
18.10.2011 Köln, Altes Pfandhaus<br>
19.10.2011 Heidelberg, Enjoy Jazz<br>
20.10.2011 Frankfurt am Main, Brotfabrik <br>
21.10.2011 München, Unterfahrt <br>
22.10.2011 Wien (AT), Porgy&Bess<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/55c20b6dee5b9b611910eadffafea6df4ba8a314/thumb/EMARCY.CoverPhoto.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="94" width="125" /><br>
NAILAH PORTER<br>
ConJazzNess<br>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1159342011-09-25T04:46:11-07:002020-08-29T22:58:49-07:00GERMANY & AUSTRIA...HERE WE COME!!!<span style="font-size: medium; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><i>I </i></span><i><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">absolutely <b>LOVE</b> Germany and Austria and can't wait to hit the road with <br>
Grant Windsor (p), Richard Spaven (d), and Neville Malcolm (b)!!!</span><br></i> <br></span> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/f439f7dde94e1792508130e736dd719132b4b73b/original/BERLIN.TheBand.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="269" width="432" /><br><span style="font-size: medium; "><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><i><b>Keep up with us by checking my <a target="_new" href="http://www.tumblr.com/tumblelog/nailahportertour">TOUR BLOG</a>... you never know where we might turn up. </b></i></span><i><b> <br></b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>I'M SOOOOO EXCITED...FIRST STOP COLOGNE!!! </b></span></i><br></span> <br><span style="font-size: medium; "><br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><b>OCTOBER 2011:<br><br></b></span><b><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">18th – Köln @ Alters Pfandhaus<br><br>
19th – Heidelberg @ Karlstorbahnhof – Enjoy Jazz Festival<br><br>
20th – Frankfurt @ Brotfabrik<br><br>
21st – Munich @ Jazzclub Unterfahrt<br><br>
22nd – Vienna @ Porgy & Bess</span><br></b> <br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">Click </span></span><b><a href="./tour.cfm"><span style="font-size: medium; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">HERE </span></span></a></b><span style="font-size: medium; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">for more details...</span><br></span> <br><br><span style="color: rgb(153, 204, 255); "><b>blesSINGS...<br>
NP</b></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 255); "></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 255, 255); "></span><br>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/1159332011-09-25T04:31:24-07:002017-02-01T13:17:40-08:00Only way to live... <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/405ffda77a1d9ede7f2384c80bc1b78c101bbf5f/original/CREATE.Japanese.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="375" width="500" />Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/993992011-05-11T06:25:00-07:002017-02-01T12:49:36-08:00Debut Release of ConJazzNess<span style="color: rgb(128, 128, 128); "><b><span style="font-size: larger; "><br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">IT'S HERE!!! FINALLY!!!! My Universal/EmArcy debut CD "ConJazzNess" is now available at Amazon.com and other online retail outlets. Check out the new video for "SACRED", the first single from ConJazzNess, featured on YouTube. <br></span><br></span></b></span> <br><iframe width="440" height="390" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kunlEQfVOy4?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><b><span style="font-size: larger; ">NICOLA CONTE FEATURES NAILAH PORTER <br>
ON NEW CD AND EUROPEAN TOUR<br><br>
~Catch me in Rome, Berlin, London and other fab European cities this summer as the featured vocalist with the Nicola Conte Jazz Combo!!! <br><br></span></b></span><span style="color: rgb(128, 128, 128); "><b><span style="font-size: larger; "> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); ">Sat May 21 - Teatro Piccini, Bari, Italy <br>
Sun May 22 - Tata Theatre, Taranto, Italy <br>
Mon May 23 - Roma Auditorium, Rome, Italy <br>
Wed May 25 - A Trane, Berlin, Germany <br>
Thu May 26 - Domicil, Dortmund, Germany <br>
Sat May 28 - Elb Jazz Festival, Hamburg, Germany <br></span> <br><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><a target="_new" href="./tour.cfm">CLICK HERE FOR MORE DATES</a></span><br></span></b></span> <br>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/991712011-05-08T11:14:36-07:002017-02-01T12:49:14-08:00HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers/Women/Nurturers around the world. I hope that your day is/has been magical and that you have been well celebrated. Mothers not only give life, but we make everyone else's lives work!!! So on this day and everyday...I hope that you take time out for yourself, that you honor yourself, and that you do whatever you need to do for you to be balanced, healthy and happy!!! Here's a photo of my Momma and my Grandma Macey...the women who raised me!!!<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/81b3846d0abdc7fe6534efc91fd988d57366dcec/large/Momma-Grandma-Macey.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="470" width="600" /><br><br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/983172011-04-25T09:40:00-07:002017-02-01T12:47:59-08:00Learning... I'm learning new music for the Nicola Conte Jazz Combo upcoming performances. The music is wonderful and the tour is going to be so much fun!!! Took a break to immerse myself in all things Ella Fitzgerald today in celebration of her birthday and I stumbled upon this video footage on YouTube. Of course it made me want to forget about singing all together...LOL...SHE WINS!!!
<div style="text-align: center; ">
<br><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbL9vr4Q2LU&feature=related"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/7b2b1b9f6a3fb90ccd628807b21cfb828afce355/original/ella-04.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="500" width="402" /></a><br><br><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbL9vr4Q2LU&feature=related"><span style="font-size: large; ">www.youtube.com/watch</span></a>
</div>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/971092011-04-10T08:25:00-07:002017-02-01T12:46:04-08:00Long time comin'<span style="font-size: larger; ">While I've been lying here nursing the flu and watching "Father of the Bride" with Spencer Tracy and Elizabeth Taylor...it occurred to me that I didn't blog about my last few days in London. It all went by so fast...and before I knew it, I was back in LA....full steam ahead!!! I did post some photos on Facebook, but a lot of you are not my Facebook friends....just in case you are, please indulge me. <br><br>
As I blogged before, </span><span style="font-size: small; "></span><span style="font-size: larger; "><a target="_new" href="http://josejamesmusic.com"><b>Jose James</b></a></span><span style="font-size: small; "></span><span style="font-size: larger; "> (who I also refer to as "<b>THE VOICE</b>"), did me a solid by putting me in touch with his band!!! I love him dearly and consider myself his biggest fan. Magic happened when me and fellow artists, </span><b><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ttkbgesa-xs"><span style="font-size: larger; ">Richard Spaven</span></a><span style="font-size: larger; ">, </span><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdNzJKE5GUM"><span style="font-size: larger; ">Grant Windsor</span></a></b><span style="font-size: larger; "><b> </b>and<b> </b></span><b><a target="_new" href="http://www.basic-soul.co.uk/features/Robin-Mullarkey-4-page.htm"><span style="font-size: larger; ">Robin Mullarkey</span></a></b><span style="font-size: larger; ">, hit the rehearsal studio. After one AMAZING rehearsal we took the show on the road to Vienna, and had a BLAST!!! Shows are always fun for me but being on stage with those brilliant musicians was strangely familiar. By that I mean, it felt as if we'd been playing together for years...<b>EVERYTHING JUST CLICKED</b>. And when Grant started singing background vocals...it brought the biggest smile to my face...his voice is <b>BEAUTIFUL</b>!!! <br><br>
So cut to the <b>BIG</b> day that unnerves every recording artist...<b>THE SHOWCASE</b>!!! This private gathering was held at the Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho and the best part about it was that, outside of Gilles Peterson and Simon Goffe of Brownswood, I had no idea who was there!!! Record company executives, members of the press, and other famous Londoners packed the house, but I was clueless...THANK GAWD!!! Still nervous...but more about whether my voice would work at 1pm...I mean<b> WHO </b>sings at 1pm???!!! Needless to say we had a blast, which is just not suppose to happen at industry showcases. My dear beautiful Sistah </span><a target="_new" href="http://feed://soulmonique.podomatic.com/rss2.xml"><span style="font-size: larger; ">Monica</span></a><span style="font-size: larger; "> taped the show (she's an amazing DJ who always has my back in London), and although the sound quality is a little fuzzy, I'm so thankful she captured this special moment for me. Click </span><span style="font-size: small; "></span><span style="font-size: larger; "><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3X6OH6cd2S8"><b>HERE</b></a></span><span style="font-size: small; "></span><span style="font-size: larger; "> to see the YouTube video. After the Showcase, I did a few more interviews, then we were off to historic BBC Maida Vale Studios, where we did a live recording for the Jamie Cullum BBC radio show. <b>WHAT A MOMENT!!</b>! Here are some photos from Showcase.<b> For more London photos </b></span><b><a target="_new" href="./gallery.cfm"><span style="font-size: larger; ">CLICK HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: larger; ">!!! ENJOY!!!<br></span><span style="font-size: small; "> </span> </b><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/440a5168e380b13c400a940aa6c6aedee3a72c6d/medium/PizzaExpress.1.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/40396c08b92f5cde213d5747a2f6691db94a683a/original/GrantWindsor.Showcase.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/4d19ddb8c56475cf1f00d47a3b91f949aa04bb73/medium/PizzaExpress.3.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="229" width="290" /> <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/4cab9fd4891b579d5c3d5a7d050c8e6b483d3020/original/WulfMueller.Nai.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/d86f82145f0b96fca3e000fc40dbaa37686174e1/original/Wulf.Iain.JPG?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="228" width="304" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/26add94f9a7f5003f807ce51a157c99d1b12e1eb/medium/Gilles.Simon.JPG?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="208" width="300" /> <br><br>
<br><br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/970612011-04-09T08:25:00-07:002017-02-01T12:46:00-08:00Tea, Soup and TCM<span style="font-size: large; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>Stress</b></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "></span><span style="font-size: medium; "> <span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 204); ">can really take its toll if you let it, and this time I did, albeit, unknowingly. I wasn't on top of my game so a flu-like bug had a chance to slip in. Three hours <b>before</b> I boarded my flight to London, a dear friend stopped by and shared some news with me regarding their health. LA to London to Vienna to London to LA in a week was a lot. Add rehearsals, shows, interviews, AND a mid-day Universal industry showcase to the mix and you've got a recipe for excitement with a high dose of anxiety. Now add setting up and shooting a video 3 days after returning to LA, intense contract negotiations, a new class starting with 40 students, AND ONE OF MY CHILDREN HAVING A MAJOR MELTDOWN...it's understandable why my body just shut down. I normally do well under pressure...dotting my i's and crossing my t's...and my business was handled through all of this..but now I'm being forced to take a much needed rest from everybody and everything!!! <br><br>
No more running errands, zipping around LA with the kids, cooking breakfast, lunch and dinner, cleaning the house and yard, phone conversations or hangs with friends. Right now I can't do anything for or with anybody. All activity has come to a grinding halt. I've run through 3 boxes of Trader Joes organic teas, gallons of water and several boxes of tissue. My dear Sistah Haize made some homemade soup for me (now that I can eat) and Turner Classic Movies has kept me company. Can't really talk (throat still hurts and coughing doesn't help), so I'm writing instead. Giving thanks for the downtime and the quiet. <br><br>
Got a lot to do in the next few weeks...preparing for my record release and the upcoming Nicola Conte </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "></span><b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><a target="_new" href="./tour.cfm"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">tour</span></a></span></b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><a target="_new" href="./tour.cfm"><span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 204); "></span></a></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 204); "> dates. Getting my house in order, finding a caretaker for my dog Layla, learning and rehearsing new material, AND PACKING!!! I might add that I have only partially unpacked from this last trip, but I suppose that's a good thing. That and the weight loss that comes naturally from being sick. <img src="//bandzoogle.com/common/FCKEditor/editor/images/smiley/msn/wink_smile.gif" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /> <br><br>
I vow to take better care of myself. To say "<b><font class="Apple-style-span">yes</font></b><font class="Apple-style-span">" </font><font class="Apple-style-span">to that which creates harmony and peace...and "<b>no</b>" to the things that do not.. Gotta be consistent with my meditation and rituals...everything depends on it. It really is THAT simple!! </font><br></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 255); "> </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 204, 255); "> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); "> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 204); "> </span> <br type="_moz"></span>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/965962011-04-04T06:25:00-07:002017-02-01T12:45:26-08:00LONDON TIMES ARTICLE ~ Sunday, April 3rd <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/b3ef7420f0dcfcc955067fa818a0d0008773a709/medium/Nailah-Porter-ConJazzNess-The-Sunday-Times-April-3rd-2011.jpg?1376576910" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="430" width="300" /> <br><br><br><a target="_new" href="/files/39333/Nailah-Porter-ConJazzNess-The-Sunday-Times-April-3rd-2011.pdf">DOWNLOAD LONDON TIMES ARTICLE HERE</a><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/954302011-03-21T12:15:00-07:002017-02-01T12:43:55-08:00London/Vienna/London<span style="font-size: larger; "><b>LONDON</b></span><br>
Finally got to meet and personally thank <b>Wulf Muller</b>...the wonderful man who signed me to Universal / EmArcy. He is so hip and wears the funkiest red glasses I've ever seen!!! Later that evening I went to see Dee Dee Bridgewater (another EmArcy artist), perform at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club with the BBC Big Band. It was incredible witnessing the live recording. I learned so much watching Dee Dee on stage and learned even more from our hang after the show. She is generous and GRANDE and I adore her!!!<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/d941671e9a6dd78f5a5fec0abd24437b21615338/medium/Dee-Dee-Bridgewater.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="200" width="300" /><br><br><span style="font-size: larger; "><b>VIENNA</b></span><br>
I had HUGE plans for Vienna...couldn't wait to be a "tourist" in that beautiful city...but plans changed and I only got to spend 24 hours there. I must admit they were 24 GLORIOUS hours!!! Everyone in Vienna is so lovely...the city is beautiful (what I saw from the car) and THEY LOVE MUSIC!!! It was really an honor to participate in the Femous Centenary Night, celebrating the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day. Harry (my Universal rep in Vienna) brought me flowers and took us to dinner. (He knows how to treat a lady...LOL). Back to back interviews then off to the venue!!! Shout out to the entire Femous staff. Sharing the bill with so many amazing artists was LOVELY...but the icing on the cake was that I got to share the stage with Richard Spaven, Grant Windsor and Robin Mullarkey...I LOVE THOSE CATS AND CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT AGAIN!!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/36cdc7c468e5d57e3a1016ab50192f2f727887b7/medium/Spaven.Porter.Windsor.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="200" width="300" /> <br>
Richie, me and Grant. I think Robin was getting another beer!!!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/eb7d8501f055241a47e06a6b428f8581b916ae30/medium/Vienna-Laughs.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="146" width="300" /><br>
This band has mad jokes!!! We're constantly laughing!!!<br><br><span style="font-size: larger; "><b>LONDON</b></span><br>
Returned to London and hit the ground running. I did slow down long enough to have dinner with my fellow American expat, Darrell Fields, who is an amazing photographer that looks out for me when I come to London. He always manages to capture the lovely moments we share. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/55f5d47edcaddc54f10d4aa4630c3c1e36307347/original/Darrell.Fields.London.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="130" width="87" /><br><br>
It was a warm 55 degrees on Monday. The sun was bright and the streets were full of happy people. I took a stroll to the Natural History Museum <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/5cbef361815131e5299b62e7403eeb641236d494/medium/Museum.1.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /> and was amazed by the dinosaur exhibit!!! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/f74bc11a4032a42c5559b5134c245bcdcb955821/medium/Museum.2.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" />Picked up some presents for the kids, then rushed back to do an interview with the London Times. Afterwards, I got a chance to hang with my dear friend, Monica Soulworld on the South Bank and dinner in Soho. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/fb57924ed50be4de8f252f3fe66413665d93e6e3/original/Monica.Soulworld.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="162" width="216" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/5d01b1bdf769a6788e5b87bc7909ba2c30b3be72/original/SouthBankThames.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="162" width="216" /><br><br>
Now I'm preparing for Tuesday. We're doing a show for my Universal / EmArcy family and more interviews!!! Later that day me and the fellas head up to the historic BBC Maida Vale Studios to do a live performance for the Jamie Cullum show. I couldn't be more thrilled. More news and photos coming soon!!! Take care!!!<br><br><br><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/951902011-03-17T13:20:00-07:002017-02-01T12:43:36-08:00London - Day 1 + 2<br><span style="font-size: larger; "><b>London</b></span><br>
Smooth flight to London!!! Universal sent a car for me and the driver was a Nigerian brother, Michael, who loves real estate. Since I also teach the subject, we had lots to talk about....including politics, legal issues, Obama, the Motherland, and of course, food. He even hooked me up with a SIM card so I could have a London phone number...then dropped me off at this FAB hotel in the Kensington section of London...a 10 minute walk to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, Royal Albert Hall, National History Museum and other amazing museums and landmarks. My room wasn't ready so I was seated by the fireplace and treated to a nice English afternoon tea. Decided to go for an evening stroll in the nice crisp air...everybody was out as if it were a balmy 80 degrees. LOVE THAT!!!<br><br><span style="font-size: larger; "><b>Rehearsal Day at John Henry's</b></span><br><div style="text-align: left; ">
<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/14e82c626c8f57c2067ee13e95cc902809174420/medium/JH.Entrance.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /><br>
The early part of the day was spent preparing for tonight's rehearsal. Stepped out of the hotel and couldn't believe my eyes...Universal sent a <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 255); "><b>PINK TAXI</b></span> to take me to the rehearsal studio. All I could do was laugh!! The driver, Carlos, was totally hip and had that funny British sense of humor. Talked about how tough you had to be to drive a pink cab in London and warned me of the onslaught of photographers. Sure enough...at EVERY stop light cameras would magically appear snapping photos of his FAB CAB!!! <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/e0832bceee9d93cd67f406eba29d3781e84bee9e/medium/CarlosCab.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/720ec9a108830a4450e290adc4dba3db67129ea3/medium/John.Henry.Rehearsal.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="300" /><br>
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<div style="text-align: left; ">I know....I'm so corny but I just HAD to!!! LOL. Rehearsal with Grant Windsor, Richard Spaven and Robin Mullarkey was INCREDIBLE!!! It felt like we've been playing together for years!!! Love those cats...not only are they accomplished musicians but they're HILARIOUS!!! We're gonna have a blast in Vienna and at the London show!!! Tomorrow I finally get to meet and hug Wulf Muller, the lovely man who signed me to Universal / EmArcy, Well...actually we'll meet later today because it's currently 3am. YIKES...gotta get some sleep. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>More tomorrow....stay tuned!!!</b></span>
</div>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/680732011-03-15T05:20:00-07:002017-02-01T12:06:43-08:00Femous!!!I'm packing for London and Vienna and all I can say is "life is good"!!! I'll be performing at the <a target="_new" href="http://femous.blogspot.com/2011/03/nailah-porter-femous-centenary-night.html">Femous Centenary Night</a> in Vienna and at a private function in London for my Universal / EmArcy family. I absolutely LOVE London, and the love affair with Vienna has already begun. Looking forward to the trip and sharing the exciting moments with you. For now...check out the latest word from the <a target="_new" href="http://femous.blogspot.com/2011/03/nailah-porter-femous-centenary-night.html">Femous Blog here</a>!!!<br><br>
Cheers...<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/67f4cefbae6e1a5d53e4697597fcd4df032348a4/medium/FEMOUS.Flyer.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="419" width="300" /><br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/935382011-02-24T02:56:11-08:002017-02-01T12:41:11-08:00Inspiration... Whenever I have an opportunity to share the stage with poets and musicians, it does wonders for my soul. I'm preparing for a performance with the Inspiration House PoetryChoir, which happens Saturday, Feb. 26th at Avenue 50 Studio in LA. It's always an honor to do anything with Peter J. Harris because he keeps it Sacred...and he sets the tone for every poet and musician to do the same. It's all impromptu...creativity flowing on the spot...and I always walk away feeling lifted. Soul happy and satisfied. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/37c5acb2a81c37d9f6e0da7ebefe46e8a97c7baa/medium/FLYER.PoetryChoir.Feb26.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="235" width="300" /> Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/929792011-02-16T03:20:00-08:002017-02-01T12:40:26-08:00Gregory Porter and the Awomen Co'nah<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/2b2ddee276fd461bf0bccf0df6f5d121dafdb2b4/original/gregory_porter_small.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="72" width="72" />It's Wednesday, Feb. 16th and tonight Los Angeles will be blessed with the sound of <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>that</b></span> voice!!! Grammy nominee Gregory Porter is at Catalina's this evening and me and my Sistahs are gonna show up in full force to be his personal "Amen Co'nahr"...or should I say "Awomen Co'nah"!!!<br><br>
Gregory's voice is like a healing balm with instructions that say "<b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); ">look at the lesson</span></b>". Even when he hits us with a powerful lyric..."<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); "><b>Did you pick the wrong one</b></span>?"...and I find myself answering through tears..."yes Brothah Gregory I did." That one simple line...that question...hit me on so many levels...forced me to go deep. I certainly know what "wrong" feels like. I'm just glad my heart didn't shut down and I'm thankful that listening to Brothah Gregory makes me want to open up and love again...again...and again...until I get it right. In the meantime...I'll keep applying that healing balm and following those instructions.<br><br>
Please support this powerful artist by spreading the word and buying his music!!! Listen to Water...his Grammy nominated CD <a target="_new" href="http://motema.com/blog/"><b>HERE</b></a> but do yourself a favor and <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>BUY IT!</b></span>!!Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/928512011-02-14T11:50:00-08:002017-02-01T12:40:15-08:00Happy Valentine's Day, New Video & Upcoming Dates<b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><span style="font-size: medium; ">HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!</span></span></b><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "></span><br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Hope this finds you happy and thriving. I'm really excited these days and wanted to share some of the great things happening as we prepare for the worldwide release of "ConJazzNess" on Universal Music Group / EmArcy Records. <br><br>
The EPK (electronic press kit) is finished and looks great!! Shout out to my FABULOUS TEAM...Liz Siegel, Stuart Radford, Logan Alexander, Veleeta DaCosta, Seth A. Horan, Nettie & Louie Ryan, Novena Carmel and of course Guy Eckstine!!! Click </span><a target="_new" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/NailahPorter#p/a/u/0/Wf0xwj-ZM5k"><b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); ">HERE</span></b></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> to check out the EPK on YouTube. <br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); "><b>LOS ANGELES: </b></span> I'll be joining the Inspiration House PoetryChoir for "The Black/Brown Dialogues" on Feb. 26th. This event is free and open to the public. <br></span> <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/37c5acb2a81c37d9f6e0da7ebefe46e8a97c7baa/medium/FLYER.PoetryChoir.Feb26.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="235" width="300" /><br><br><b><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); ">EUROPE</span></b><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); ">: </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> European dates are on the horizon with an AMAZING TRIO...Grant Windsor on piano, Richard Spaven on drums and Robin Mullarkey on bass. Huge hugs to Jose James for the hookup!!! First up is the Femous Festival in Vienna, Austria on March 19th. London and Spain follows, along with upcoming summer dates with the Nicola Conte Jazz Combo.<br></span> <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/67f4cefbae6e1a5d53e4697597fcd4df032348a4/medium/FEMOUS.Flyer.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="419" width="300" /><br><br>
Looking forward to hittin' the road and sharing beautiful moments with you. Stay tuned!!!!<br><br>
blesSINGS...<br>
NP<br><br><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); "><b>Congratulations to Esperanza Spalding, my friend Billy Childs, and my label mate, Dee Dee Bridgewater, for their Grammy wins!!</b></span>! <br>
Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/896942010-12-19T09:19:30-08:002010-12-19T09:19:30-08:00More Light...I want more Light in my life...and with that comes more responsibility to what is being illuminated...inside and out. But the Sun is soooooo healing...Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/896822010-12-19T06:45:00-08:002017-02-01T12:35:26-08:00Raining blesSINGS...<b>I am LOOOOOOOVING this rainy LA weather.</b> It's cold and "Christmasy" and makes me feel like I'm on the East coast. All I wanna do is lounge around, watch old movies on TCM, drink tea and hot cocoa and eat warm hearty soups.....and that's <b>EXACTLY</b> what I've been doing!!! <br><br>
It's perfect timing because frankly, I'm exhausted!!! October and November had me crossing the globe to record and perform in Italy and Japan with the Nicola Conte Jazz Combo. <b>And just when I thought it couldn't get any better...</b><b>I got an early Christmas present when I signed with Universal Music Group International - EmArcy. </b> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>TALK ABOUT JOY AND ABUNDANT blesSINGS!!!!!</b></span> The prestigious EmArcy label is the home of jazz legends Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, Sonny Rollins, Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, Max Roach, Clifford Brown and so many others. Here’s photo of me with my attorneys, Jeremy Mohr and Ken Hertz. I am honored, grateful and thrilled beyond belief. Thank you for your love, encouragement and support through the years and be on the lookout for the Spring 2011 worldwide release of ConJazzNess. <br><b><br>
I pray that you and your family have a beautiful Holiday Season...that heartfelt moments create beautiful memories and fill your Spirit with more love, more joy and more peace. <br></b><br>
By the way...here are a couple of photos from the contract signing...one with my attorneys, Jeremy Mohr and Ken Hertz...and another with my babies....who didn't think I was "<b>cool</b>" until Ken Hertz walked in with <b>HUGE </b>Christmas presents for them...wish I had captured <b>THAT</b> moment!!! LOL. <br><br><br><div style="text-align: center; ">
<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/ce35fc532ab1a83e5f4976e564404b1e4add4a59/medium/Attorney-Photo.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="198" width="300" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/0ced32f2f2c48668e0bd8dde860d0ab0dc79eabb/medium/Nai.Kids.SignK.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="200" width="300" />
</div>Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/877362010-11-23T20:25:00-08:002017-02-01T12:31:42-08:00Happy Thanksgiving!!!Hey Fam...<br><br>
I've been meaning to write more but the days are going by with lightening speed. We've been in Tokyo since Saturday with one night off. Sunday night we played Blue Note Yokohama and I found myself getting antsy at soundcheck. Why? Because I am performing with this AMAZING Italian band and the stage crew was Japanese. So I'm trying to listen to the band for my cues while trying to figure out the proper sign language for the sound engineer. I felt like a deer in headlights...lol...but it got much better after I got over feeling like the "unworldly" American. (Gotta make sure my children know more than one language because this world is SOOOO big!!!). <br><br>
But here's the thing...I was more nervous walking up on that stage, given the legacy. Found myself holding back tears a couple of times because it was just too much. I felt completely overwhelmed...but I also felt at home. Tears of joy are simply an acknowledgment of how long and hard the journey has been to get here. <br><br>
So while everyone at home in the States is celebrating Thanksgiving, I'll be performing our final 2 sets at the Blue Note Tokyo with Nicola Conte, Flavio Boltro, Pietro Lussu, Paulo Benedittini, Andrea Nunzi and Gaetano Partipilo, after a 5 night run. A world class band with international flair and a deep love for jazz. I will be thanking God, the Ancestors and Nicola for blesSING me with this opportunity and experience. To quote an ol' Spiritual..."Lawd knows I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now!!!" <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/e510560d30b30bf6837846ca753dea7e0a9bd603/medium/Nicola.Band.BlueNote.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="916" width="300" /><br><br>
Many blesSINGS and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!<br><br>
~ NP<br type="_moz">Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/509942010-11-19T23:00:00-08:002017-02-01T11:45:01-08:00Full Moon in Tokyo Hey Fam,<br><br>
Gazing at the Tokyo night skyline, it just hit me that I'm performing a 5 night run at the Blue Note in Japan (Yokohama and Tokyo) as the guest vocalist with the Nicola Conte Jazz Combo. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><b>WOW!!!</b></span> Been dreaming about singing at the Blue Note for many moons but never dreamed it would be with Nicola Conte. He is an amazing producer and songwriter...first class all the way. It's an honor to share the stage with him and the featured world class musicians, Flavio Boltro(tp), Gaetano Partipilo(sax,fl), Pietro Lussu(p), <br>
Paolo Benedettini(b), Andrea Nunzi(ds), and of course Nicola Conte on guitar. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/c9e66882d64d251fcd4805e6ec4758b516789252/thumb/NailahNicola.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="100" width="125" /><br><br>
In the midst of enjoying an elegant Japanese dinner, I realized that I never blogged about the shows in Italy. Well, in short, it was an amazing experience. Two rehearsals and we hit the stage...talk about being tossed to the wolves and feeling sometimes like a deer in headlights (with jet lag I might add). The experience was challenging and full of lessons that help you grow as an artist. Nicola and the band guided me with gentle hands and I'm grateful. It was also lovely having my dear Sistah Haize with me on the trip, who decided to celebrate her birthday in Italy with me. <b>We had an ABSOLUTE blast!!! The food...the food...THE FOOD and the passion of the Italian people...JUST BEAUTIFUL!!! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/c0f63b43c2b1b2ca9c3184d84d591443bb01dc60/thumb/Witches-in-Italia.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="112" width="125" /><br><br>
Although I've been there twice in the past 2 months, I still can't wait to go back to Bari. By the way...I was also there to finish recording 4 songs that will be on Nicola Conte's new record, one of the songs is a hip duet with Jose James, who's also featured on the record, along with Ms. Melanie Charles (who will BLOW you away!!!) </b><br><br type="_moz"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/4cf905586054f11111f1bee617229357fbbeea0f/thumb/Haize-n-Conversano.JPG?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="125" width="94" /><br><br>
So I spent a week in Italy, home to Los Angeles for 4 days (long enough to hang with my babies, do homework, some home cooking, and laundry. Now I'm in Tokyo and there is nothing like being greeted by a full moon...pregnant with possibilities, the beauty and grace of the Japanese culture, and of course Mr. Conte's warm smile. I love my life!!! Nailah Portertag:nailahporter.com,2005:Post/850252010-09-19T05:10:00-07:002017-02-01T12:27:07-08:00New Horizons...Sitting here listening to Somi...her voice reminds me of the beauty of stillness...of the knowing that comes from quiet contemplation and surrender to the Divine. <br><br>
I am approaching new horizons with glorious possibilities laid out before me. A little brown girl from Winston-Salem, North Carolina had no business with dreams of such magnitude, yet I held on. All outward appearances said "impossible" and when I even believed it was not possible and tried to give up, the dream itself held on to me. During this journey, I have learned to walk through fire and not get burned...even walked on water when all around was sinking fast. I just kept hearing my Uncle Coo'Jack say... <br><b><br>
"Stand up...baby girl you betta stand up. <br>
I don't wanna hear no foolish talk about you giving up<br>
When I done lived most of my life bending over backwards<br>
Just so you can stand." <br></b><br>
Now I stand on the shoulders of my Ancestors...basking in the joy of dreams realized, understanding the power of faith, the quiet strength that comes from trusting, and of what can happen when your dreams don't let go of you. <b> And as for my Uncle Coo'Jack's advice...I'm SO glad I listened!!</b><br><br><b> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/41753/f07ef41db6872e4510e3b3493d759b1dc6d51c2d/medium/UncleCooJack.jpg?1376576909" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Uncle Coo'Jack & Ihsan" height="207" width="300" /><br>
My Great Uncle Coo'Jack holding my son Ihsan (4 Generations)<br type="_moz"></b>Nailah Porter