7/24/25 O&A NYC THE MORNING FUNNIES: The Niggar Family – Chapelle Show

521996_10151042761179273_236006809_n-1The Niggar Family, one of comedian Dave Chappelle‘s most controversial skits, explores the question of what effect “the n-word” would have if it were just another name. The skit is filmed in black and white, with sets and costumes right out of Father Knows Best or Leave It to Beaver or, for a more recent reference, Pleasantville. We see a squeaky-clean family of aw-shucks pleasantness and golly-jeepers naïveté, a “typical American” (i.e., white) family named Niggar. Continue reading

7/22/25 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: Malcolm – Jamal Warner (August 18, 1970 – July 20, 2025)

In his poignant spoken word performance and talk, Malcolm – Jamal Warner shares how embracing vulnerability rather than pursuing notions of being cool changed his life. He encourages us to resist the media stereotypes of Black men, filled with bravado and danger, and instead create space and acceptance for male vulnerability and self-love.

7/21/25 O&A NYC HOLLYWOOD MONDAY: Woody Strode – Sergeant Rutledge

Lt. Cantrell (Jeffrey Hunter) defends Sergeant Rutledge (Woody Strode) as witnesses give testimony (relived in flashbacks) revealing the Sergeant’s gallantry – and the shocking truth behind the alleged crimes. Director John Ford, who attacked racism in The Searchers, explores similar territory in this landmark Western, the power of which still rings out with uncommon force decades later.

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7/20/25 O&A NYC GOSPEL SUNDAY: Aretha Franklin – What a Friend We Have in Jesus (1972)

What a Friend We Have in Jesus was recorded in January 1972 at New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles. Aretha Franklin (1942-2018) then 29 years old and Reverend James Cleveland (1932 – 1991) performed with Southern California Community Choir led by Reverend Dr. Alexander Hamilton (1945-2022). Continue reading

7/19/25 O&A NYC SATURDAY MORNING CONCERT: Happy Birthday Millie Jackson! Live (London 1984)

Happy birthday to Millie Jackson! She turned 81 years old on July 15th. Millie Jackson is a R&B and soul singer-songwriter, renowned for her powerful vocals, often explicit storytelling, and stage presence. Many fans are celebrating her birthday by listening to her music and sharing well wishes.

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7/18/25 O&A NYC SHALL WE DANCE FRIDAY: Harold Nicholas – Mister BeeBe from Carolina Blues (1944)

An amazing song and tap routine from Carolina Blues (1944) – with a huge cast of dancers and singers, and headed up by the wonderful Harold Nicholas. Continue reading

7/16/25 O&A NYC WILDIN OUT WEDNESDAY: Only Seniors (SNL)

An elderly couple (Kenan Thompson, Quinta Brunson) tells their children (Ego Nwodim, Devon Walker) about their new life insurance policy. Continue reading

7/15/25 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: Vin Diesel – Multi Facial (film debut)

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Multi-Facial is a 1995 short film directed, written, produced, scored by and starring the 22 year old Vin Diesel in his film debut. Continue reading

7/8/25 O&A NYC THE MORNING FUNNIES: When Heckling Goes Wrong – Comedian Ron G

Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, Ron G is an accomplished comedian, actor, writer, host, and Emmy winning producer. Continue reading

7/8/25 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: Something Inside So Strong- ft Annatoria & Ché Kirah.

This is the live version of Something Inside So Strong ft Annatoria & Ché Kirah. Originally released on TBN as a powerful tribute to songs that have marked monumental moments in black history, music and culture; singer/songwriter, Junior Garr and choir conductor, Marsha B. Morrison, navigated The Spirituals Choir in a time of great uncertainty to give a message of hope. Continue reading