12/31/22 O&A NYC IN MEMORIAM: Vivienne Westwood – Renegades of fashion. RIP! 

Vivienne Westwood, the designer who defined the look of punk, using rock iconography, royalty, art and religion as recurring motifs in collections that brought a rebellious edge to British style, before going on to a long and influential career as a fashion designer with an activist streak, died on Thursday in the Clapham neighborhood of South London. She was 81. Continue reading

12/29/22 O&A NYC THROWBACK THURSDAY: Lena Horne- Believe In Yourself- From The Wiz 


“This movie is a big part of why I’m where I am today. THE WIZ! Sometimes I have to go back and remind myself to believe in what I feel in my heart in my mind and in my soul. I have to listen to God’s voice and not let the troubles of the world drown it out. ‘We’ve come this far by faith” Keep believing in yourself y’all and keep moving toward you dreams and being the best you can be.”- Phillip Boykin 

Lena Horne- Believe In Yourself- From The Wiz 

 

12/27/22 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY:Chadwick Boseman- God Has A Plan For You

Chadwick Boseman, star of Black Panther provides words of inspiration to college graduates about finding purpose in life. 
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  12/25/22 O&A NYC CHRISTMAS SONG OF THE DAY: Nat King Cole – The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)

Official music video for “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)” by Nat King Cole. Continue reading

12/24/22 O&A NYC FROM THE VAULT: A Conversation with Clive Thompson- The Ailey Years

By Walter Rutledge

Clive Thompson danced in the Golden Era of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Officially becoming a permanent member in 1970 when choreographer Ailey was entering a creative zenith. He viral good looks, skillful partnering, and his ability to capture audiences in both dramatic and abstract roles made him Ailey royalty. Continue reading

12/14/23 O&A NYC THROWBACK THURSDAY HOLIDAY GREETING: Eartha Kitt- Santa Baby

THROWBACK HOLIDAY
Eartha Kitt

Eartha Mae Kitt was an actress, singer, cabaret star, dancer, stand-up comedienne, activist and voice artist. Known for her highly distinctive singing style and her 1953 recordings of C’est Si Bon and the enduring Christmas novelty smash Santa Baby. Both songs became US Top 10 hits. Orson Welles once called her the most exciting woman in the world.
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12/20/22 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: James Baldwin and Paul Weiss Debate Discrimination In America (The Dick Cavett Show 5/16/69 )

James Baldwin and Yale Professor, Paul Weiss get engaged in a debate on the issue of racial discrimination in the USA. Continue reading