Having teachers and school staff carry concealed handguns is the newest way Republicans are trying to address school shootings while keeping gun lobbyists happy, a move that critics say is unpopular and does not address the root issue: access to guns.
In Tennessee, Sb 1325 allows faculty or staff at schools to carry a concealed handgun on campus if they receive police approval, psychological evaluation, and 40 hours of annual training. After making it through the Tennessee Senate, the bill passed the state House on Tuesday in a 68-28 vote and now goes before Tennessee Gov.
In Tennessee, Sb 1325 allows faculty or staff at schools to carry a concealed handgun on campus if they receive police approval, psychological evaluation, and 40 hours of annual training. After making it through the Tennessee Senate, the bill passed the state House on Tuesday in a 68-28 vote and now goes before Tennessee Gov.
- 4/24/2024
- by Jeremy Childs
- Rollingstone.com
Lawmakers in Tennessee have approved a measure that permits school staff to carry concealed handguns on school grounds. The bill now awaits the governor’s decision. The move comes one year after a tragic shooting incident claimed the lives of six individuals at a Nashville school.
The Tennessee House passed the legislation 68-28, with four Republicans breaking ranks to join all the Democrats in opposition. The state Senate, also controlled by the GOP, had previously approved the bill.
State Rep. Ryan Williams (R) spoke in favor of the bill, emphasizing school safety. In the House session, Williams stated, “I believe that this is a method by which we can do that because what you’re doing is you’re creating a deterrent.”
Under the proposed legislation, faculty and staff members who wish to carry concealed handguns on school premises must complete at least 40 hours of specialized training in school policing each year.
The Tennessee House passed the legislation 68-28, with four Republicans breaking ranks to join all the Democrats in opposition. The state Senate, also controlled by the GOP, had previously approved the bill.
State Rep. Ryan Williams (R) spoke in favor of the bill, emphasizing school safety. In the House session, Williams stated, “I believe that this is a method by which we can do that because what you’re doing is you’re creating a deterrent.”
Under the proposed legislation, faculty and staff members who wish to carry concealed handguns on school premises must complete at least 40 hours of specialized training in school policing each year.
- 4/24/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
Meet the Jazz Maestro Bleek Gilliam Let’s kick things off with Bleek Gilliam in Mo’ Better Blues, shall we? Denzel Washington blows the trumpet and our minds as a jazz musician who’s got more issues than Vogue. Sure, the man’s got chops, but his life’s a messier composition than a free jazz solo. The film’s vibrant setting, thanks to Bill Lee’s score and Ernest Dickerson’s cinematography, is like a love letter to jazz that somehow got lost in the mail. And let’s talk about Lee’s deadpan—Denzel nails it like a pro, giving Bleek an escape from his self-destructive spiral. Critics...
- 3/13/2024
- by Jane Wiggle
- TVovermind.com
Andrea Bocelli performed a rendition of the song “Time to Say Goodbye” with his son Matteo Bocelli to accompany the Academy’s annual obituary section. Perhaps mindful of previous years, in which eagle-eyed viewers have jumped on omissions, this year’s “In Memoriam” — which began with footage of the recently deceased Russian opposition leader and subject of last year’s winning documentary Navalny — seemed comprehensive but at the same time not enough.
Related: ‘Oppenheimer’ Wins Best Picture Oscar & Six Others; Emma Stone & Cillian Murphy Take Lead Acting Prizes – Full List
Beloved actors Lance Reddick, Treat Williams, Apocalypse Now’s Frederic Forrest, Rocky’s Burt Young all relegated to a fine print reference at the end, along with such writers as Norman Lear and No Country for Old Men’s Cormac McCarthy. Also given afterthought treatment were Kenneth Anger, Terence Davies, Carl Davis, David McCallum, Sinead O’Connor and Paolo Taviani in...
Related: ‘Oppenheimer’ Wins Best Picture Oscar & Six Others; Emma Stone & Cillian Murphy Take Lead Acting Prizes – Full List
Beloved actors Lance Reddick, Treat Williams, Apocalypse Now’s Frederic Forrest, Rocky’s Burt Young all relegated to a fine print reference at the end, along with such writers as Norman Lear and No Country for Old Men’s Cormac McCarthy. Also given afterthought treatment were Kenneth Anger, Terence Davies, Carl Davis, David McCallum, Sinead O’Connor and Paolo Taviani in...
- 3/11/2024
- by Damon Wise
- Deadline Film + TV
When Oklahoma teenager Nex Benedict went to school on Feb. 7, months of bullying over their gender identity boiled over into a physical fight between them and three older girls in the school bathroom. The next day, Nex was dead. Now, as the circumstances around their death continue to develop, trans and queer youth tell Rolling Stone they’re hurt, angry, and scared for what could come for them.
Nex’s death is still under active investigation by the Owasso Police Department in Oklahoma. According to a representative for the Owasso School District,...
Nex’s death is still under active investigation by the Owasso Police Department in Oklahoma. According to a representative for the Owasso School District,...
- 2/23/2024
- by CT Jones
- Rollingstone.com
Expanded and remastered version of soundtrack features actor’s singing, which was dubbed over in film
Two years after his death at the age of 91, the voice of Christopher Plummer singing Edelweiss in The Sound of Music will finally be heard.
Plummer received vocal training for the part of Capt Von Trapp in the Oscar-winning 1965 movie but a singer, Bill Lee, was dubbed in for the famous Rodgers and Hammerstein numbers.
Two years after his death at the age of 91, the voice of Christopher Plummer singing Edelweiss in The Sound of Music will finally be heard.
Plummer received vocal training for the part of Capt Von Trapp in the Oscar-winning 1965 movie but a singer, Bill Lee, was dubbed in for the famous Rodgers and Hammerstein numbers.
- 9/29/2023
- by Harriet Sherwood Arts and culture correspondent
- The Guardian - Film News
An expanded version of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” will be released on Dec. 1, featuring more than 40 unreleased tracks, 11 of which are alternative takes from the film that have never been seen before.
Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer — who passed away in 2021 at the age of 91, after a storied acting career — starred in the iconic 1965 musical. Originally, Plummer recorded tracks for the film, however, his voice was later dubbed over by Bill Lee. Nearly 60 years later, Plummer’s vocals will be released to the public.
“The Little Dears,” a song that was never in the film and combines “I Have Confidence,” “My Favorite Things” and “New Governess,” will be featured on the Super Deluxe Edition. The songs “Do-Re-Mi,” “Favorite Things,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and more will also be included.
One of the alternative takes, “Prelude/The Sound of Music,” performed by Andrews is already available to stream.
Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer — who passed away in 2021 at the age of 91, after a storied acting career — starred in the iconic 1965 musical. Originally, Plummer recorded tracks for the film, however, his voice was later dubbed over by Bill Lee. Nearly 60 years later, Plummer’s vocals will be released to the public.
“The Little Dears,” a song that was never in the film and combines “I Have Confidence,” “My Favorite Things” and “New Governess,” will be featured on the Super Deluxe Edition. The songs “Do-Re-Mi,” “Favorite Things,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and more will also be included.
One of the alternative takes, “Prelude/The Sound of Music,” performed by Andrews is already available to stream.
- 9/27/2023
- by Natalie Korach
- The Wrap
“Sound of Music” fans prepare: “Something Good” is coming your way.
A new version of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” soundtrack, featuring more than 40 previously unreleased tracks and unheard vocals by Christopher Plummer, will debut on Dec. 1. Released by Craft Recordings, this Super Deluxe Edition — one of many remixed and remastered issues — has 11 alternate takes from the film that audiences have never heard before.
The iconic 1965 musical stars Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer as a spunky governess and a strict father of seven who fall in love in Austria against the backdrop of the start of World War II. While Plummer did record songs for the film, his vocals were ultimately dubbed over by Bill Lee. Now, almost 60 years later, Plummer’s versions will be available for fans to hear. He died in February 2021 at the age of 91 after a decades-long career in acting.
Previously unheard songs include “The Little Dears,...
A new version of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” soundtrack, featuring more than 40 previously unreleased tracks and unheard vocals by Christopher Plummer, will debut on Dec. 1. Released by Craft Recordings, this Super Deluxe Edition — one of many remixed and remastered issues — has 11 alternate takes from the film that audiences have never heard before.
The iconic 1965 musical stars Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer as a spunky governess and a strict father of seven who fall in love in Austria against the backdrop of the start of World War II. While Plummer did record songs for the film, his vocals were ultimately dubbed over by Bill Lee. Now, almost 60 years later, Plummer’s versions will be available for fans to hear. He died in February 2021 at the age of 91 after a decades-long career in acting.
Previously unheard songs include “The Little Dears,...
- 9/27/2023
- by Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran actor George Maharis, known for roles in “Route 66” and “Fantasy Island”, has died at 94 years old.
Maharis’ longtime friend and caretaker, Marc Bahan, took to Facebook to announce his death, revealing the actor died on Wednesday, May 25.
“George Maharis passed away on Wednesday, May 25. George is well known for his stardom in route 66, stage productions, singing, artist, and above all a great guy would do anything for anyone. My dear friend, you’ll be terribly missed,” Bahan wrote.
In the 1960s drama series, “Route 66”, Mararis played the role of Buz Murdock. He starred in the production for its first three seasons and earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Series.
“Route 66” – Martin Milner, George Maharis/Everett Collection
The actor, born and raised in Astoria, Queens, served 18 months with the U.S. Marines before pursuing a career in entertainment.
Maharis’ longtime friend and caretaker, Marc Bahan, took to Facebook to announce his death, revealing the actor died on Wednesday, May 25.
“George Maharis passed away on Wednesday, May 25. George is well known for his stardom in route 66, stage productions, singing, artist, and above all a great guy would do anything for anyone. My dear friend, you’ll be terribly missed,” Bahan wrote.
In the 1960s drama series, “Route 66”, Mararis played the role of Buz Murdock. He starred in the production for its first three seasons and earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Series.
“Route 66” – Martin Milner, George Maharis/Everett Collection
The actor, born and raised in Astoria, Queens, served 18 months with the U.S. Marines before pursuing a career in entertainment.
- 5/28/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Bill Lee, the accomplished jazz musician who collaborated with the likes of Cat Stevens, Aretha Franklin and Bob Dylan and also scored many of his son Spike Lee’s films, has died according to multiple reports. He was 94.
Bill Lee composed the memorable original music for many of Spike Lee’s early, seminal films, including She’s Gotta Have It (1986), School Daze (1988), Do the Right Thing (1989) and Mo’ Better Blues (1990). The elder Lee had small roles in each of those films, except for Do the Right Thing. He also scored his son’s early short, Joe’s Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut Heads.
The director posted a series of photos on Instagram remembering his father, the first accompanied by the phrase, “Deeds Not Words.”
The deeds of Lee’s father made an impact on his son.
“Everything I know about jazz I got from my father,” Spike Lee told the New York...
Bill Lee composed the memorable original music for many of Spike Lee’s early, seminal films, including She’s Gotta Have It (1986), School Daze (1988), Do the Right Thing (1989) and Mo’ Better Blues (1990). The elder Lee had small roles in each of those films, except for Do the Right Thing. He also scored his son’s early short, Joe’s Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut Heads.
The director posted a series of photos on Instagram remembering his father, the first accompanied by the phrase, “Deeds Not Words.”
The deeds of Lee’s father made an impact on his son.
“Everything I know about jazz I got from my father,” Spike Lee told the New York...
- 5/24/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Bill Lee, the jazz bassist who recorded with the likes of Bob Dylan and Aretha Franklin and was the father of filmmaker Spike Lee, has died at the age of 94.
Lee died Wednesday at his home in Brooklyn, Spike confirmed to The New York Times. No cause of death was provided.
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A post shared by Spike Lee (@officialspikelee)
A longtime session musician whose work dates back to the early Sixties, Lee’s double bass could be heard on recordings by artists like Harry Belafonte, Judy Collins,...
Lee died Wednesday at his home in Brooklyn, Spike confirmed to The New York Times. No cause of death was provided.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Spike Lee (@officialspikelee)
A longtime session musician whose work dates back to the early Sixties, Lee’s double bass could be heard on recordings by artists like Harry Belafonte, Judy Collins,...
- 5/24/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Charlize Theron has joined a growing list of stars denouncing new anti-drag and anti-lgbtq+ laws. The star made her views crystal clear during an appearance on the May 7 telethon "Drag Isn't Dangerous: A Digital Fundraiser," which was also attended by Idina Menzel, Leslie Jones, Melissa McCarthy, Jesse Eisenberg, and Sarah Hyland.
"There are so many things that are hurting and, really, killing our kids - and we all know what I'm talking about right now - and it ain't no drag queen," Theron said. "Because if you've ever seen a drag queen lip-sync for her life, it only makes you happier, it only makes you love more, it makes you a better person."
In previous weeks, Hayley Kiyoko, Lizzo, Kevin Bacon, and Kyra Sedgwick have all also spoken out to support drag queens and the queer community in the wake of new anti-drag and anti-lgbtq+ laws. At her Tennessee concert...
"There are so many things that are hurting and, really, killing our kids - and we all know what I'm talking about right now - and it ain't no drag queen," Theron said. "Because if you've ever seen a drag queen lip-sync for her life, it only makes you happier, it only makes you love more, it makes you a better person."
In previous weeks, Hayley Kiyoko, Lizzo, Kevin Bacon, and Kyra Sedgwick have all also spoken out to support drag queens and the queer community in the wake of new anti-drag and anti-lgbtq+ laws. At her Tennessee concert...
- 5/12/2023
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
Charlize Theron participated in the recent “Drag Isn’t Dangerous” telethon and sent a stern message to conservative lawmakers seeking to ban drag queens from performing: “We love you queens. We’re in your corner and we’ve got you, and I will fuck anybody up who’s trying to fuck with anything with you guys.”
“There are so many things that are hurting and, really, killing our kids, and we all know what I’m talking about right now and it ain’t no drag queen,” Theron said in a video. “If you’ve ever seen a drag queen lip-sync for her life, it only makes you happier, it only make you love more, it makes you a better person,”
“Please support all the great organizations that are out there helping all of this nonsense go away like it should,” the Oscar winner added. “All of these incredibly stupid policies.
“There are so many things that are hurting and, really, killing our kids, and we all know what I’m talking about right now and it ain’t no drag queen,” Theron said in a video. “If you’ve ever seen a drag queen lip-sync for her life, it only makes you happier, it only make you love more, it makes you a better person,”
“Please support all the great organizations that are out there helping all of this nonsense go away like it should,” the Oscar winner added. “All of these incredibly stupid policies.
- 5/11/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
The Department of Justice announced on Wednesday that it has filed a lawsuit challenging Tennessee’s new law banning gender-affirming treatments for minors — one of several bills targeting the state’s LGBTQ+ community.
The DOJ said that SB1 violates the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause by denying “necessary medical care to youth” based on transgender status.
“The right to consider your health and medically-approved treatment options with your family and doctors is a right that everyone should have, including transgender children, who are especially vulnerable to serious risks of depression,...
The DOJ said that SB1 violates the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause by denying “necessary medical care to youth” based on transgender status.
“The right to consider your health and medically-approved treatment options with your family and doctors is a right that everyone should have, including transgender children, who are especially vulnerable to serious risks of depression,...
- 4/27/2023
- by Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
Lizzo responded to Tennessee’s drag show ban by inviting drag queens to join her at her Knoxville concert. In an act of defiance, she welcomed Vanessa Vanjie Mateo, Asia O’Hara and Kandy Muse from RuPaul’s Drag Race on stage to perform on Friday.
The singer and rapper shared a video of the event on Instagram with her 13.4 million followers. The 34-year-old music artist is an outspoken ally of the LGBT community and addressed the piece of legislation in another video, telling fans that she was told to not perform in Tennessee.
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“But why would I not come to the people who need to hear this message the most, the people who need to feel this release the most?” Lizzo asked. She continued, saying that she wanted to create a safe space in Tennessee where drag entertainers and people from all different backgrounds could be celebrated.
The singer and rapper shared a video of the event on Instagram with her 13.4 million followers. The 34-year-old music artist is an outspoken ally of the LGBT community and addressed the piece of legislation in another video, telling fans that she was told to not perform in Tennessee.
50 Best Celebrity Bikinis Slideshow!
“But why would I not come to the people who need to hear this message the most, the people who need to feel this release the most?” Lizzo asked. She continued, saying that she wanted to create a safe space in Tennessee where drag entertainers and people from all different backgrounds could be celebrated.
- 4/26/2023
- by Alex Nguyen
- Uinterview
Singer, actor, and activist Harry Belafonte has passed away at the age of 96. Along with his rich, prolific musical career, Belafonte leaves behind an impressive legacy on screen. From one of his earliest roles in Otto Preminger's "Carmen Jones" to his last appearance in Spike Lee's "BlacKkKlansman," Belafonte left an unforgettable impression. The actor worked with talented filmmakers like Robert Altman, Robert Wise, Ava DuVernay, and Sidney Poitier, and appeared in Lee's 2006 look at the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, "When The Levees Broke." But he and Lee would also work together one more time, in a role that the then-elderly Belafonte had to get approved by a doctor.
Belafonte's scene in "BlacKkKlansman" gives the darkly funny movie about a Black cop infiltrating the KKK a sense of gravity and history; in a nine-minute scene, Black students and activists sit rapt and engrossed around a seated Belafonte as he...
Belafonte's scene in "BlacKkKlansman" gives the darkly funny movie about a Black cop infiltrating the KKK a sense of gravity and history; in a nine-minute scene, Black students and activists sit rapt and engrossed around a seated Belafonte as he...
- 4/25/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Kevin Bacon has gone viral with a video he made in protest of the drag bans in the US.
Since the beginning of this year, dozens of bills have been filed in states across America, targeting drag performances.
Tennessee was the first to pass its bill into law last month, barring “adult cabaret performances” on public property or in places where they might be within view of children.
The bill bans “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest, or similar entertainers”. Violators may face misdemeanor or even felony charges.
Footloose actor Kevin Bacon has become the latest celebrity to speak out on the issue.
On Sunday (23 April), he posted a video of him and his wife, the actor Kyra Sedgwick, dancing to Taylor Swift’s song “Karma” and wearing t-shirts with the slogan “Drag is an art and drag is a right”.
In the caption to the video,...
Since the beginning of this year, dozens of bills have been filed in states across America, targeting drag performances.
Tennessee was the first to pass its bill into law last month, barring “adult cabaret performances” on public property or in places where they might be within view of children.
The bill bans “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest, or similar entertainers”. Violators may face misdemeanor or even felony charges.
Footloose actor Kevin Bacon has become the latest celebrity to speak out on the issue.
On Sunday (23 April), he posted a video of him and his wife, the actor Kyra Sedgwick, dancing to Taylor Swift’s song “Karma” and wearing t-shirts with the slogan “Drag is an art and drag is a right”.
In the caption to the video,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Lizzo said she was told to cancel her shows in Tennessee in light of the state’s anti-drag law, which bans “adult cabaret entertainment” in public spaces and where it might be seen by minors. Instead, she decided to invite drag performers, including RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni, to perform with her onstage at her Knoxville show.
“In light of recent and tragic events and current events, I was told by people on the internet, ‘Cancel your shows in Tennessee,’ ‘Don’t go to Tennessee,’” Lizzo said during her set.
“In light of recent and tragic events and current events, I was told by people on the internet, ‘Cancel your shows in Tennessee,’ ‘Don’t go to Tennessee,’” Lizzo said during her set.
- 4/22/2023
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Watch out for this big grrrl, Tennessee lawmakers.
Lizzo began the second leg of her The Special 2our with a show in Knoxville on Friday and proceeded to thumb her nose at the state’s new law banning drag performances. The four-time Grammy winner and reality TV host brought onstage a host of drag performers, including several who have competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Among them were including Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Kandy Muse, Vanessa Vanjie and others.
“In light of recent and tragic events and current events, I was told by people on the internet, ‘Cancel your shows in Tennessee,’ ‘Don’t go to Tennessee,'” Lizzo said onstage at Thompson-Boling Arena. “Their reason was valid, but why would I not come to the people who need to hear this message the most? … Why would I not create a safe space in Tennessee where we can celebrate drag entertainers and celebrate our differences?...
Lizzo began the second leg of her The Special 2our with a show in Knoxville on Friday and proceeded to thumb her nose at the state’s new law banning drag performances. The four-time Grammy winner and reality TV host brought onstage a host of drag performers, including several who have competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Among them were including Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Kandy Muse, Vanessa Vanjie and others.
“In light of recent and tragic events and current events, I was told by people on the internet, ‘Cancel your shows in Tennessee,’ ‘Don’t go to Tennessee,'” Lizzo said onstage at Thompson-Boling Arena. “Their reason was valid, but why would I not come to the people who need to hear this message the most? … Why would I not create a safe space in Tennessee where we can celebrate drag entertainers and celebrate our differences?...
- 4/22/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Actors’ Equity Association has filed an amicus brief in Tennessee opposing that state’s new law – the first in the nation – intended to limit or ban some drag shows.
In a brief filed this week, Equity argues that the Tennessee law is unconstitutionally overbroad and vague, covers a wide range of live theatrical performances in which Equity members perform and will deter the expression of protected speech in Tennessee.
Equity’s amicus brief supports the legal efforts of the Memphis-based theater company Friends of George’s. The theater company has produced original, drag-centric performances, comedy sketches, and plays since 2011, and has filed a suit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District calling the legislation a “bigoted antidrag law.”
The law, which bans “adult cabaret entertainment” on public property or in locations where it could be viewed by a minor, was approved by the state’s Republican governor,...
In a brief filed this week, Equity argues that the Tennessee law is unconstitutionally overbroad and vague, covers a wide range of live theatrical performances in which Equity members perform and will deter the expression of protected speech in Tennessee.
Equity’s amicus brief supports the legal efforts of the Memphis-based theater company Friends of George’s. The theater company has produced original, drag-centric performances, comedy sketches, and plays since 2011, and has filed a suit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District calling the legislation a “bigoted antidrag law.”
The law, which bans “adult cabaret entertainment” on public property or in locations where it could be viewed by a minor, was approved by the state’s Republican governor,...
- 4/21/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Some of Nashville’s biggest artists are coming together to urge Tennessee lawmakers to pass “common sense gun safety legislation” before the General Assembly ends their session, the Tennessean reports.
Sheryl Crow, Kacey Musgraves, Amy Grant, Jason Isbell and dozens of other signees drafted a letter calling for Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and state lawmakers to enact meaningful gun reforms following the Covenant School shooting that left three children and three adults dead. They are part of Voices for a Safer Tennessee, a coalition pushing for extreme risk protection laws...
Sheryl Crow, Kacey Musgraves, Amy Grant, Jason Isbell and dozens of other signees drafted a letter calling for Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and state lawmakers to enact meaningful gun reforms following the Covenant School shooting that left three children and three adults dead. They are part of Voices for a Safer Tennessee, a coalition pushing for extreme risk protection laws...
- 4/18/2023
- by Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
Republicans in the Tennessee state house who voted Thursday to expel from the legislature two Black Democrats (while narrowly failing to do the same to a white colleague) were in the wrong, former Republican senator Scott Brown said Sunday on CNN State of the Union.
Brown, who represented Massachusetts from 2010 to 2013 and went on to serve as Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa during the Trump administration, urged the two sides to find “common ground” because “this is a very, very serious issue–what’s going on with gun violence around this country.
Brown, who represented Massachusetts from 2010 to 2013 and went on to serve as Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa during the Trump administration, urged the two sides to find “common ground” because “this is a very, very serious issue–what’s going on with gun violence around this country.
- 4/9/2023
- by William Vaillancourt
- Rollingstone.com
Former Tennessee state Reps. Justin J. Pearson and Justin Jones said Sunday on Meet the Press that they each plan on returning to the state legislature.
The Tennessee House of Representatives on Thursday voted to expel the two Black Democratic lawmakers, while failing by a single vote to oust Rep. Gloria Johnson, who is white. On March 30, the trio had led a protest for gun control at the House podium in light of the mass shooting three days prior at Nashville’s Covenant School. But since they were not recognized to speak,...
The Tennessee House of Representatives on Thursday voted to expel the two Black Democratic lawmakers, while failing by a single vote to oust Rep. Gloria Johnson, who is white. On March 30, the trio had led a protest for gun control at the House podium in light of the mass shooting three days prior at Nashville’s Covenant School. But since they were not recognized to speak,...
- 4/9/2023
- by William Vaillancourt
- Rollingstone.com
Maren Morris and a number of mostly-Nashville stars, including Paramore’s Hayley Williams, Yola, Sheryl Crow and Jason Isbell, performed at the “Love Rising” concert alongside Tennessee drag artists earlier this week to protest the state’s anti-drag and anti-trans legislation.
The concert was organized in response to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signing a law banning drag performances on public property. Supporters of the legislation say that drag performances expose children to inappropriate sexual imagery while detractors argue that the law discriminates against the LGBTQ community and violates First Amendment laws.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
“I introduced my son to some drag queens today. So, Tennessee, f—ing arrest me,” Morris said to the crowd. “He’s growing up here as a Nashvillian, and I just want to leave this world for him a little bit better than the one we’re in right now.
The concert was organized in response to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signing a law banning drag performances on public property. Supporters of the legislation say that drag performances expose children to inappropriate sexual imagery while detractors argue that the law discriminates against the LGBTQ community and violates First Amendment laws.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
“I introduced my son to some drag queens today. So, Tennessee, f—ing arrest me,” Morris said to the crowd. “He’s growing up here as a Nashvillian, and I just want to leave this world for him a little bit better than the one we’re in right now.
- 3/25/2023
- by Alex Nguyen
- Uinterview
Radical joy and consistent action were the messages at Nashville’s Love Rising benefit concert on Monday, an event that drew supporters to the city’s downtown Bridgestone Arena. Hosted by Drag Race alumna Asia O’Hara and featuring performances by Hayley Williams, Hozier, Sheryl Crow, Jason Isbell, Maren Morris, Allison Russell, Joy Oladokun, and Nashville’s drag artists — among many others — the concert raised money for four Tennessee organizations working to fight the state government’s ongoing legislative attacks against the LGBTQ+ community.
It’s been a rough few...
It’s been a rough few...
- 3/21/2023
- by Jon Freeman
- Rollingstone.com
As Tennessee lawmakers attempt to push some members of the LGBTQ+ community out of the public sphere, Jason Isbell and Allison Russell organized Love Rising, a joyous fundraising event that offered support for those under attack. The March 21st concert hosted sets by Sheryl Crow, Brittany Howard, Julien Baker, Hozier, several members of country supergroup The Highwomen, and more, including Hayley Williams with the live debut of “Inordinary” and a cover of Deana Carter’s “Did I Shave My Legs for This?”
The fundraiser benefited Tennessee Equality Project, inclusion tennessee, OUTMemphis, The Tennessee Pride Chamber, and The Looking Out Foundation, which offered to double any donations it received up to $100,000. Donations remain open and ongoing.
Love Rising came as a response to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signing a law on March 2nd that lumped “male and female impersonators” with “topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, [and] strippers,” as a group banned...
The fundraiser benefited Tennessee Equality Project, inclusion tennessee, OUTMemphis, The Tennessee Pride Chamber, and The Looking Out Foundation, which offered to double any donations it received up to $100,000. Donations remain open and ongoing.
Love Rising came as a response to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signing a law on March 2nd that lumped “male and female impersonators” with “topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, [and] strippers,” as a group banned...
- 3/21/2023
- by Wren Graves
- Consequence - Music
As anti-drag and anti-trans legislation sweeps the country, Emmy-winning TV host RuPaul used his platform to shine a light on the issues. The RuPaul’s Drag Race icon called out the “stunt queens” in Congress and in state and local governments across the nation who are working to criminalize many aspects of LGBTQ life.
RuPaul | Scott Kowalchyk/CBS via Getty Images Tennessee outlawed drag queens and trans people
In March 2023, Tennessee passed the first law in the nation limiting “adult cabaret entertainment.” By the law’s categorization, “any performance “male or female impersonators” are banned from performing anywhere in public where minors could see their performance. As a result, drag performers are now categorized as sex workers, and must get exotic dance licenses, which puts the liquor licenses of venues that host drag events in jeopardy.
The law’s vague wording also threatens the daily life of transgender people, as...
RuPaul | Scott Kowalchyk/CBS via Getty Images Tennessee outlawed drag queens and trans people
In March 2023, Tennessee passed the first law in the nation limiting “adult cabaret entertainment.” By the law’s categorization, “any performance “male or female impersonators” are banned from performing anywhere in public where minors could see their performance. As a result, drag performers are now categorized as sex workers, and must get exotic dance licenses, which puts the liquor licenses of venues that host drag events in jeopardy.
The law’s vague wording also threatens the daily life of transgender people, as...
- 3/13/2023
- by Chris Malone
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Everything Everywhere All At Once co-director Daniel Scheinert took a shot at the anti-drag bills being pushed by conservative lawmakers around the country while accepting the Oscar for Best Director on Sunday night.
During his speech, Scheinert thanked his parents for “not squashing when I was making really disturbing horror films, or really perverted comedy films, or dressing in drag as a kid — which is a threat to nobody.”
Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (The Daniels) accept the #Oscar for Best Director for #EverythingEverywhereAllAtOnce. https://t.co/ndiKiHeOT5 pic.twitter.
During his speech, Scheinert thanked his parents for “not squashing when I was making really disturbing horror films, or really perverted comedy films, or dressing in drag as a kid — which is a threat to nobody.”
Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (The Daniels) accept the #Oscar for Best Director for #EverythingEverywhereAllAtOnce. https://t.co/ndiKiHeOT5 pic.twitter.
- 3/13/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
A person is always wise to remember that Instagram likes and comments are public. But a 79-year-old man who likes what he sees is not always disposed to restrain himself, and it looks as though Tennessee Lt. Governor Randy McNally is one such fellow.
As the Tennessee Holler first reported on Wednesday, McNally has for some time been a devoted fan of Franklyn McClur, a 20-year-old gay man who grew up in Knoxville and aspires to move to Los Angeles to make it in show business. McClur’s Instagram photos...
As the Tennessee Holler first reported on Wednesday, McNally has for some time been a devoted fan of Franklyn McClur, a 20-year-old gay man who grew up in Knoxville and aspires to move to Los Angeles to make it in show business. McClur’s Instagram photos...
- 3/9/2023
- by Miles Klee
- Rollingstone.com
RuPaul, the face of the “Drag Race” franchise, has responded to the recent wave of anti-drag and anti-trans legislation introduced by Republican lawmakers in the U.S.
In an Instagram video on Wednesday, the Emmy winner called the bills “a classic distraction technique” and urged Americans to register to vote.
“Hey, look over there! A classic distraction technique, distracting us away from the real issues that they were voted into office to focus on: jobs, healthcare, keeping our children safe from harm at their own school,” RuPaul said. “But we know that bullies are incompetent at solving real issues. They look for easy targets so they can give the impression of being effective. They think our love, our light, our laughter and our joy are signs of weakness. But they’re wrong because that is our strength.”
RuPaul continued, “Drag queens are the Marines of the queer movement. Don’t...
In an Instagram video on Wednesday, the Emmy winner called the bills “a classic distraction technique” and urged Americans to register to vote.
“Hey, look over there! A classic distraction technique, distracting us away from the real issues that they were voted into office to focus on: jobs, healthcare, keeping our children safe from harm at their own school,” RuPaul said. “But we know that bullies are incompetent at solving real issues. They look for easy targets so they can give the impression of being effective. They think our love, our light, our laughter and our joy are signs of weakness. But they’re wrong because that is our strength.”
RuPaul continued, “Drag queens are the Marines of the queer movement. Don’t...
- 3/8/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Gabrielle Union says Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has messed with the wrong people, after the Republican governor signed a bill into law on Friday banning gender-affirming health care for minors.
“There is an army that rebukes you, that does not agree with you and that will not lie down while this fascist rule is instituted,” Union told me Saturday at the 2023 Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica. “And that’s just one state. There are several states who were doing the same thing, and they will be met with resistance. People are not going to take this lying down. They’re just not. So if you thought this was going to be a cakewalk, you’re in for a rude awakening.”
Union and her basketball star husband Dwyane Wade have become fierce advocates for the LGBTQ community ever since their 15-year-old daughter Zaya revealed she is transgender.
Wade recently dedicated...
“There is an army that rebukes you, that does not agree with you and that will not lie down while this fascist rule is instituted,” Union told me Saturday at the 2023 Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica. “And that’s just one state. There are several states who were doing the same thing, and they will be met with resistance. People are not going to take this lying down. They’re just not. So if you thought this was going to be a cakewalk, you’re in for a rude awakening.”
Union and her basketball star husband Dwyane Wade have become fierce advocates for the LGBTQ community ever since their 15-year-old daughter Zaya revealed she is transgender.
Wade recently dedicated...
- 3/6/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
In response to Tennessee signing into law a ban on drag shows and other “adult cabaret” performances on public properties and other places where they could be watched by minors, Bonnaroo has issued a statement promising it will continue welcoming “people of all walks of life.”
“Bonnaroo has and always will be a place for inclusivity, a safe haven for people of all walks of life, and a champion of self-expression,” the statement reads. “Rest assured The Farm will remain a sanctuary for those freedoms and Bonnaroovians will see no changes in programming or celebration of self-expression at the festival.”
In addition to making Tennessee the first state to restrict drag performances, governor Bill Lee also signed a separate bill banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
When Lee was asked about the drag bill in February, he called the shows “sexualized entertainment in front of children” and insisted it was...
“Bonnaroo has and always will be a place for inclusivity, a safe haven for people of all walks of life, and a champion of self-expression,” the statement reads. “Rest assured The Farm will remain a sanctuary for those freedoms and Bonnaroovians will see no changes in programming or celebration of self-expression at the festival.”
In addition to making Tennessee the first state to restrict drag performances, governor Bill Lee also signed a separate bill banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
When Lee was asked about the drag bill in February, he called the shows “sexualized entertainment in front of children” and insisted it was...
- 3/3/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
Bonnaroo has pledged to remain a “safe haven for people of all walks of life” in response to a newly passed Tennessee bill restricting public drag shows.
The long-running Manchester, Tennessee, festival issued a statement Friday, tweeting that Bonnaroo “has and always will be a place for inclusivity, a safe haven for people of all walks of life and a champion of self-expression.”
pic.twitter.com/K2yiigSCha
— Bonnaroo (@Bonnaroo) March 3, 2023
The festival continued, “Rest assured The Farm will remain a sanctuary for those freedoms and Bonnaroovians will see no...
The long-running Manchester, Tennessee, festival issued a statement Friday, tweeting that Bonnaroo “has and always will be a place for inclusivity, a safe haven for people of all walks of life and a champion of self-expression.”
pic.twitter.com/K2yiigSCha
— Bonnaroo (@Bonnaroo) March 3, 2023
The festival continued, “Rest assured The Farm will remain a sanctuary for those freedoms and Bonnaroovians will see no...
- 3/3/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Texas country-punk band Vandoliers are standing in solidarity with drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community. On Thursday night, the group performed their set at the Shed in Maryville, Tennessee, with all six of its members wearing dresses in protest of the state’s newly enacted law on public drag performance.
“Fuck a drag bill,” they wrote in an Instagram post. “Gonna auction off the dresses we wore onstage in Tennessee tonight and donate the money to a couple of LGBTQ charities in this state.”
Suffice it to say, the heavily tattooed,...
“Fuck a drag bill,” they wrote in an Instagram post. “Gonna auction off the dresses we wore onstage in Tennessee tonight and donate the money to a couple of LGBTQ charities in this state.”
Suffice it to say, the heavily tattooed,...
- 3/3/2023
- by Jon Freeman
- Rollingstone.com
Tennessee became the first state in the country to restrict public drag performances on Thursday. Republican Gov. Bill Lee also signed legislation banning minors from receiving gender-affirming care and prohibiting surgeries and hormone treatments for transgender youth.
The Republican governor, who appeared in drag in a 1977 high-school yearbook photo, promised to sign the measure, which restricts “adult cabaret entertainment” in public spaces or locations where it might be seen by minors. The vague term is defined as “adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors” that is in line with existing obscenity law,...
The Republican governor, who appeared in drag in a 1977 high-school yearbook photo, promised to sign the measure, which restricts “adult cabaret entertainment” in public spaces or locations where it might be seen by minors. The vague term is defined as “adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors” that is in line with existing obscenity law,...
- 3/2/2023
- by Jon Freeman
- Rollingstone.com
HIV testing and prevention in Tennessee may be more difficult to attain come this spring. Dozens of organizations across the state are bracing for the loss of significant federal funding for HIV prevention after the state declined nearly 9 million in government funds from the CDC. It’s a move that could result in a spike of new infections and be a bellwether for the rest of the nation — especially in red states.
In the capital of Nashville, organizations like Nashville Cares, which has spent nearly 40 years building a network for testing,...
In the capital of Nashville, organizations like Nashville Cares, which has spent nearly 40 years building a network for testing,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Jon Freeman
- Rollingstone.com
When body horror maestro David Cronenberg announced he would be adapting William Burroughs' "Naked Lunch" into a feature film, skeptics doubted whether or not the surrealist stylization of the groundbreaking novel would translate onscreen. Cronenberg grappled with many similar themes in his own work, but the question of how to transform the author's string of drug-infused imagery into a comprehensive narrative still remained. One person who championed the project from its inception was Peter Weller, who played protagonist Bill Lee. The role marked a major pivot in the actor's career from the blockbuster action series "RoboCop" into the world of psychedelic independent film.
Weller shocked...
The post Why Peter Weller Left the RoboCop Franchise for David Cronenberg appeared first on /Film.
Weller shocked...
The post Why Peter Weller Left the RoboCop Franchise for David Cronenberg appeared first on /Film.
- 5/26/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
"The Mosquito Coast," the Apple TV+ drama series starring Justin Theroux and Melissa George, has added three names to its list of season 2 regulars. Ian Hart, who had a recurring role in the first season as the hitman Bill Lee, has been upgraded to a main cast member, and joining him (per Deadline) are new additions Natalia Cordova-Buckley and Ariyon Bakare.
Cordova-Buckley played Yo-Yo Rodriguez on "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." and her other credits include Karyn Kusama's "Destroyer" and four episodes of the "Sons of Anarchy" spin-off, "Mayans M.C." Bakare is known for his roles as Lord Boreal in HBO's "His Dark Materials" and the demon Ligur in Amazon's "Good Omens."
Before "The...
The post The Mosquito Coast Beefs Up Its Cast for Season 2 appeared first on /Film.
Cordova-Buckley played Yo-Yo Rodriguez on "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." and her other credits include Karyn Kusama's "Destroyer" and four episodes of the "Sons of Anarchy" spin-off, "Mayans M.C." Bakare is known for his roles as Lord Boreal in HBO's "His Dark Materials" and the demon Ligur in Amazon's "Good Omens."
Before "The...
The post The Mosquito Coast Beefs Up Its Cast for Season 2 appeared first on /Film.
- 2/18/2022
- by Joshua Meyer
- Slash Film
On a recent mid-spring morning in Tennessee, Alex Kline is learning to live again in her Nashville home.
A week earlier, Tenille Arts’ “Somebody Like That” — a pulsing, pop-friendly debut that Kline co-wrote and produced — became the Number One song on country radio, making Kline the first solo female producer in history to earn a chart-topping country hit. Newly vaccinated, she felt safe enough to celebrate the occasion over wine with Arts and songwriting partner Allison Veltz, having recently left Marin County — the California hometown where Kline spent most of...
A week earlier, Tenille Arts’ “Somebody Like That” — a pulsing, pop-friendly debut that Kline co-wrote and produced — became the Number One song on country radio, making Kline the first solo female producer in history to earn a chart-topping country hit. Newly vaccinated, she felt safe enough to celebrate the occasion over wine with Arts and songwriting partner Allison Veltz, having recently left Marin County — the California hometown where Kline spent most of...
- 5/11/2021
- by Andrew Leahey
- Rollingstone.com
Little Richard’s music has been a part of Brenda Lee’s life for more than 60 years. When Lee arrived with the first wave of rock & roll as a child star in the mid-Fifties, Richard had just begun recording his revolutionary singles with Specialty Records. ”For a lot of us rural Southerners, like Little Richard and me, we somehow knew, even at our age, that this was our way out,” Lee told Rolling Stone in 2018. “I didn’t think of it that way until I got old enough to look...
- 5/13/2020
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
On Monday night, local musicians gathered to perform in support of Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders at the East Nashville club the Basement East. Shortly after 1 a.m., the venue was in ruins, destroyed by a deadly tornado that left a trail of devastation across Nashville and deep into Tennessee.
“The tornado hit at approximately 1:15 a.m., the Bernie benefit was over, and our conscientious staff of five ran down to the basement with seconds to spare before the roof blew off,” the Basement East’s co-owner Mike Grimes...
“The tornado hit at approximately 1:15 a.m., the Bernie benefit was over, and our conscientious staff of five ran down to the basement with seconds to spare before the roof blew off,” the Basement East’s co-owner Mike Grimes...
- 3/3/2020
- by Joseph Hudak
- Rollingstone.com
June 30th marks the 30th anniversary of the release of Spike Lee’s 1989 masterpiece, “Do the Right Thing.” Controversial when it was first released (the media publicly speculated that it would ignite violence), the film explores how racial inequality drives conflict in a predominantly African-American community on the hottest day of the summer. Lee’s masterwork remains profoundly relevant 30 years later, especially against the backdrop of one of the more openly vile and racist administrations in recent American history. As problematic racial reconciliation films like “Green Book” and “The Best of Enemies” continue to thrive in mainstream American cinema, pushing racist tropes ahead of fully realized characters and “solving” racism with easy answers, “Do the Right Thing” is only more essential in speaking to the present day.
Inspired by the racially-motivated killings of a black man named Michael Griffith and an elderly black woman named Eleanor Bumpurs, “Do the Right...
Inspired by the racially-motivated killings of a black man named Michael Griffith and an elderly black woman named Eleanor Bumpurs, “Do the Right...
- 6/29/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
The governor of Tennessee announced Monday that he has granted clemency to Cyntoia Brown, who was sentenced to life in prison for the 2004 murder of a 43-year-old man who had solicited her for sex when she was 16 years old.
In December, after the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that Brown must serve her life imprisonment, Governor Bill Haslam announced he would weigh commuting the sentence for Brown before he left office in mid-January; Bill Lee, the governor-elect in Tennessee, assumes office on January 19th.
“This decision comes after careful consideration of...
In December, after the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that Brown must serve her life imprisonment, Governor Bill Haslam announced he would weigh commuting the sentence for Brown before he left office in mid-January; Bill Lee, the governor-elect in Tennessee, assumes office on January 19th.
“This decision comes after careful consideration of...
- 1/7/2019
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
For three decades, Spike Lee has been one of the most reliable figures in American cinema, but one of his regular collaborators often hides in the credits: Composer Terence Blanchard has been a major part of Lee’s work since “School Daze” in 1988. Blanchard, who currently serves as the frontman for New Orleans-based jazz band The E-Collective, has been the source of emotionally resonant scores on many of Lee’s best works, from “Summer of Sam” to “25th Hour” and “Inside Man.”
For the latest Spike Lee joint, “BlacKkKlansman,” Blanchard and his band composed the catchy electric guitar lick that imbues 1970s drama with countercultural attitude. The story of black police officer Ron Stallworth (John David Washington) who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan by using a “white voice” on the phone, expands into a complex meditation on America’s torturous racial divide through the ages, and Blanchard’s music imbues...
For the latest Spike Lee joint, “BlacKkKlansman,” Blanchard and his band composed the catchy electric guitar lick that imbues 1970s drama with countercultural attitude. The story of black police officer Ron Stallworth (John David Washington) who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan by using a “white voice” on the phone, expands into a complex meditation on America’s torturous racial divide through the ages, and Blanchard’s music imbues...
- 12/31/2018
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
It’s hard to believe, but The Sound of Music celebrates its 50th anniversary today. The Julie Andrews musical is one of the most memorable movies of all time. It’s also one of the most famous -- a bonafide classic that won five Oscars and an avalanche of critical acclaim. It’s perhaps no surprise then that the film is still enchanting audiences half a century on from its original release.
So to celebrate its big day – and because trivia really is one of our favourite things – here are ten things you probably didn’t know about The Sound of Music.
1. Christopher Plummer didn’t like the film
The film is beloved by generations of film fans, but one major Sound of Music naysayer? Christopher Plummer, one of the classic's biggest stars. The man who became famous for playing Mr. Von Trapp referred to the film as "The Sound of Mucus" whilst on set.
So to celebrate its big day – and because trivia really is one of our favourite things – here are ten things you probably didn’t know about The Sound of Music.
1. Christopher Plummer didn’t like the film
The film is beloved by generations of film fans, but one major Sound of Music naysayer? Christopher Plummer, one of the classic's biggest stars. The man who became famous for playing Mr. Von Trapp referred to the film as "The Sound of Mucus" whilst on set.
- 3/2/2015
- by Daniel Bettridge
- Cineplex
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