Category: entertainment/rambling-rose

Hello everyone. I hope if you are reading my column now that you are safe and healthy from this nasty Cronavirus. Those of you who have lost someone to COVID-19 please except my condolences to you and your family. I know everything is such a mess right now but please continue to follow the rules: wear your mask and stay at least six feet from people in public places. “The Fat Lady Is Not Singing Yet!”

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Shirley Duncan, Baltimore’s Hand Dance Queen celebrates her 70th birthday this week. She feels very blessed and says thank you for all the good wishes. “Happy Birthday Shirley!”

There are so many of our jazz and music festivals and annual shows have canceled because of this COVID-19 Pandemic. I will inform you about a few. With the COVD-19 pandemic continuing to evolve unpredictably and in accordance with state guidance on large gatherings we have been stripped of our fun time in the live music world.

It’s disappointing news from the state of Rhode Island. The Newport Folk and Jazz Festival that was set to take place at Fort Adams this summer has been canceled. All ticket holders for the festival have the option to receive a full refund if desired. The Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals were created by George Wein (now 94 years old) in 1994 and 1959 respectively. These Festivals are two of the largest running music festivals in history!

The 2020 Hampton Jazz Festival known for bringing the best of jazz, blues, soul and R&B to Hampton Roads has been canceled due to the Coronavirus pandemic and has been rescheduled for June 2021. Refunds will be issued automatically to anyone who purchased their tickets online through Ticketmaster. Refunds for tickets purchased at the box office can be obtained by returning the purchased tickets once the office opens up to the public.

The 28th Annual Capital Jazz Fest, originally scheduled for June 5-7, 2020 at the Merriweather Post Pavillion in Columbia, Maryland has been postponed. This is one of my favorite festivals. Each year in early June, tens of thousands of music lovers from throughout the country flock to the suburbs of Washington, D.C. to attend “the jazz festival with soul.” Started in 1993, The Capital Jazz Fest, a multi-day, multi-stage outdoor music festival, which attracts music lovers nationwide, is more than just a concert— it’s an event! It’s a place to people-watch, eat, drink, shop, mingle, relax, soak in the rays, make new friends, and of course hear some of the coolest jazz and soul music on the planet. In-between musical sets, enjoy fine art and crafts at the Festival Marketplace, culinary treats at the food court, and meet & greet the artists. Hopefully next year we all can be there.

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A good friend for many years, Bootsie Barnes, well-known saxophonist who was loved and played with many of our local musicians in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area, but was from Philly died April 22, 2020 from COVID-19.

The 2020 French Quarter Festival and Satchmo Summerfest have also been officially canceled. Satchmo Summerfest, a celebration of the legacy of New Orleans native Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, is generally the first week of August at the Old U.S. Mint. The free French Quarter Festival, which draws hundreds of thousands of attendees every year with a program consisting almost entirely of south Louisiana musicians. We try not to ever miss the New Orleans Festivals, my “Boo Boo” and I go every year for these festivals to cover the exciting events for my column, “Rambling Rose.” We love New Orleans! The city is always full of life, fun and happy people. The 2021dates for the festivals are scheduled April 8-11 for French Quarter Festival and July 30-August 1 for Satchmo SummerFest. The French Quarter Festival followed the same path as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Essence Festival of Culture and the Buku Music + Art Project.

Oh well, I know I should be trying to put a smile on your face and talking about something positive, but this were the cards I was dealt. So in the meantime, stay strong, safe and healthy. And remember, if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, I truly hope you and your family are well. This is a terrible situation. Yes, this terrible and scary that COVID-19 has shut all of our entertainment down. No more daytime parties with our DJs; no more concerts; jazz shows; cabarets or social events of any kind.

There are no churches or casinos to go to relax our nerves. We can’t bury our loved ones or have a wedding. But ladies and gentlemen, take my word for it— this too shall pass. In the meantime we must follow the rules.

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— DJ Christopher “Sugar Chris” Tittle found a way to continue to entertain us during this Cronavirus Pandemic. He will be live for “Happy Hour Party Mix Live” on Facebook on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

I must say, as an entertainment writer/columnist this is out of my lane. You know me, if it doesn’t sing, dance or play an instrument, I am lost.

To all my readers and fans of “Rambling Rose,” please stay home. If you have to go out, protect yourself with gloves and a mask. We have been hearing a lot of things from the news and they say the symptoms show up as respiratory issues—fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties and in more severe cases pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. So please be safe, take care of yourself and try to stay healthy.

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Lexington Market Entertainment Director Kimberly “Kim Cummings overlooking the new on-going renovations of Lexington Market. There will be many changes including the relocation of the entertainment arcade.

It seems that some of the preventive measures you can take are: regular hand washing; covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; thoroughly cooking any meat/eggs; and avoiding contact with anyone who shows symptoms of respiratory illnesses such as coughing or sneezing.

Some of my musicians have found a way to still entertain us by going on Facebook Live and performing in their homes. Some DJ’s are spinning your favorite records from their own private studios. I think this is wonderful and I am very happy about that. I am worried though, about my readers who don’t have the technology— computers or smart phones— to see this. So my suggestion to them is to turn on your television and find the channels that offer music shows just for you.

Well, my dear friends, be safe, stay home and pray this mess will be over soon. I am still laughing at Ms Maybelle’s homemade coronavirus-free, supermarket mask.

Remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, this week I am taking you back! I’m taking you way back to the good old days in music. The Modell Lyric presents musical performances by R&B soul stars such as the Stylistics, Heatwave, the Emotions and the Blue Magic. I told you that I would be taking you way back!

The show will take place on Friday, March 6, 2020 at 8 p.m. at the Lyric located at 140 W. Mount Royal Avenue in Baltimore. As one of the original trailblazers of romantic songs, The Stylistics are known instantly for many recognizable hits such as “You Make Me Feel Brand New,” plus numerous classics including “Can’t Give You Anything But my Love,” “Stop Look Listen” and so much more.

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The St. James Brotherhood of St. Andrew Chapter presents a Jazz Vespers Concert on Sunday, March 8, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church on W. Lafayette and N. Arlington Avenues featuring the Tim Warfield Organ Band. Pastor Reverend Richard Meadows Jr. For more information, call 410-323-7295

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International journalist and Baltimore’s own Donna M. Owens has been featured in a profile spotlighting alumni of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. A 2013 graduate of the Master of Arts Program’s Science Concentration, she is an award-winning multi-platform journalist. Last year Owens was selected for a Harvard Medical School media fellowship. Congrats my friend!

Then, Heatwave formed in 1975. Remember their songs? “Boogie Nights,” “The Groove Line,” and “Always and Forever.” The Emotions, a trio of sisters with a strong gospel base crashed the soul charts in 1969 with the song, “So I Can Love You,” and the headliner; Blue Magic, a group that specialized in dreamy ballads and choreographed stage moves with popular favorites like “Sideshow” and “Three Ring Circus.” I know this show will be one of a kind. For more information and tickets, call: 800-982-2787.

I just want to mention that I know the passing of Mildred “Millie” Battle was a shock to many people in the Baltimore community; the lady who enjoyed her life to the fullest and who supported all the clubs; club managers and owners; barmaids birthdays; and enjoyed dancing with her high heels. Millie was the president of Left Bank Jazz Society and on the board of Jazz Expressways Foundation, Inc. She was also the leader of a group of ladies who loved night clubbing and jazz called, “The Posse.” Millie’s energy was contagious and her love for jazz music was well-known. Her funeral was held on Monday, March 2, 2020, at New Shiloh Baptist Church on Monroe Street. She will be truly missed by many.

St. James Brotherhood of St. Andrew Chapter is hosting a “Jazz Vespers.” I have been to a few of the “Jazz Vespers,” mostly presented in a church. I found that it was quite different but somewhat related to gospel songs played in the jazz form. It’s really not my choice of music, you know me, I like either some real down-home gospel music or be-bop jazz but that’s me! I found out that the Vespers Jazz Services in the churches are well-attended and most of the time— a packed house. The Jazz Vespers Service is a synthesis of several traditions, each finding a unifying voice through the unique musical heritage that we call jazz. The makers of jazz developed a consummate technical achievement as both a composer and a performer. Numerous jazz composers have secured a place in this art form within the living tradition of the church.

In his Second Sacred Concert at New York’s Church of St. John the Divine, Duke Ellington set Psalm 150 for jazz orchestra. Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis and Pat Metheny are among this decade’s proponents of religious music within a jazz context.

If you have never been to a Jazz Vespers Concert, then you should check out the performance of the Tim Warfield Organ Band at St. James Episcopal Church at W. Lafayette and N. Arlington Avenues on Sunday, March 8, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call Cynthia Easley at 410-323-7295.

Well, my dear friends, it is time to go, and remember that if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, how are you? I am doing pretty good— thank you for asking. This month is heavy duty for me— and I’m loving every bit of it. I am very busy with book signings and doing lectures about my books. Coming up this week is the Prince Hall Foundation of Maryland 3rd Annual Thurgood Marshall Black History event. Last year, I was honored at this event and this year, I will be doing a book signing of my two books, “African-American Entertainment in Baltimore” and “African-American community, History &Entertainment in Maryland.” Not only for this event, Prince Hall Mason will honor Hon. Nathaniel J. McFadden with the Life & Legacy Award,

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The Hon. Nathaniel J. McFadden, former Maryland State Senator President pro tempore will be honored with the Life and Legacy Award at the Prince Hall 3rd Annual Thurgood Marshall Black History Month Celebration on Sunday, February 23, 2020 at 3 p.m. at Morgan State University Murphy Fine Arts Center.

but also honoring: Le Gretta Y. Ross-Rawlins; Jeanne D. Hitchcock, Esq.; Bernard L. Jennings; Hon. William H. Billy Murphy Jr.; Hon. Elizabeth S. Morris; Hon. Robert M. Bell; Professor Larry S. Gibson; and Dr. Aminta H. Breaux.

Lindsey Johnson will present his Black Memorabilia Show & Sale on Sunday, February 23 at Morgan State University. It will be held the Carl J. Murphy Fine Art Center, 2201 Argonne Drive in Baltimore, Maryland. This will be in conjunction with the Prince Hall Grand Lodge Masons of Maryland 3rd Annual Thurgood Marshall Black History Month Program at the Murphy Fine Art Center from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. and admission is free. There will be vendors with black memorabilia for sale including: historical artifacts and documents; books; autographs; dolls; advertisements; kitchen collectibles; magazines; toys; political, sports and entertainment memorabilia; civil rights; jewelry; movie memorabilia; art; and Me! This is an educational event and a celebration of African American History and Culture. For more information, call 301-649-1915 or 410-929-3480. Oh! I want to mention that the Master of Ceremony is Patrice Sanders, Anchor for Fox 45 Morning News and our keynote speaker is Dr. David Anderson, founder and Senior Pastor Bridgeway Community Church.

Caton Castle is jumping up and down, doing the James Brown! Caton Castle located at 20 S. Caton Avenue in Baltimore will host on Saturday, February 22, 2020 a special show called: “The Songbooks of” Sam Coke, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, James Brown and much more. A tribute to the Music of the Civil Rights Movement inspired by; B-Fly Entertainment’s Liner Notes featuring: Deborah Bond, vocals; Sam Prather, vocal and keys; Dante Pope, vocal and percussion; Craig Alston, saxophones; Robert “Wawa” Legrand, guitar; Eliot Seppa, bass and John Lamkin, III on vocals and drums. I told you James Brown will be in the house. A show you will not want to miss.

To add to this fabulous Black History Month, Rasheed and Co. will present a 40 and Over School Extravaganza” on Sunday, February 23, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oh Mannnnnnnnnnn! That’s what I’m talking about! Check this out— The Blue Philly Magic, Epiphany, Raw, Christal F & Extravagance, Lady T, J’Kar, Songbird (I’m not sure who they are, but that’s alright); Father and Son, 5 Shadows, DJ Mike Jones & DJ Sugar Chris (Hell! That’s the show right there); and it will be hosted by my adopted children Tee Shirt Brian and Ms. Maybelle. Now you can’t get any better than that. I will see you there! By the way this is “Cabaret Style,” so bring your own booze and food. All of this is happening at the Gentlemen 10 located at 2135 Edmonson Avenue. For more information, call Tee Shirt Brian at 410-790-9333 or Ms. Maybelle at 443-226-8895 and tell them “Rambling Rose” told you!

Well, my dear friends, before I go, I want you to keep Mildred Battle in your prayers; right now she is in Meadow Park Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, 1525 N. Rolling Road in Catonsville, Maryland 21228 getting her body built up for major surgery. Send her some flowers or card to cheer her up. She has always supported the clubs and social events in Baltimore and always the life of the party. Now she needs your prayers.

We are sending condolences to the Reggie Wayne Morris family. The renowned blues guitarist and vocalist, died last week suddenly of a massive stroke. Also to Vernard Gray’s family— he passed away in Cuba on January 20, 2020 while on his vacation.

Well, my dear friends I really have to go this time, remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 r email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, we have a lot to talk about and a little space to do it. So let’s get started. Black History Month has always been very special to me because I really get to talk a couple of weeks about what our folks are doing in the community to celebrate this Black History Month.

First, let’s talk about this weekend. Baltimore’s own international recording artist and saxophonist, Gary Thomas, his quintet along with special guest, E. J. Strickland, will perform Saturday, February 8 for two shows at 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at An die Musik Live, 409 N. Charles Street.

Kier Johnson & the New Eubie present Y.A.M.S. (Young Artist Music Series) on Friday, February 7, 2020 from 8-10 p.m. with the talented saxophonist and trumpeter, Clarence Ward III and Friends from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. The Roux, an Eclectric Fusion of Organic Hip Hop, Soul & Jazz band will start. WOW! I know I won’t be at this one!

Mannnnnnnn! It’s too much going on with the title of this band. If you go, let me know what the hell this music sounds like. Anyway all of this is happening at 847 N. Howard Street. For more information, call 410-294-4101.

On Sunday, February 9, Corey Harris; an acoustic Blues Master performs at the Creative Alliance, located 3134 Eastern Avenue in east Baltimore starting at 8 p.m. Corey is a Blues & Reggae Musician and is really good.

On Saturday, February 8, The Soundry, which has only been open for a couple of years, located 10221 Wincopin Circle in Columbia, Maryland has booked Jah Works for the Bob Marley’s Birthday Bash, also featuring STRYKER POSSE. Show time is 8 p.m. I heard the food and drinks are good, I have to check this out myself.

Celebrate Black History Month at the opening of the B&O Railroad Museum’s new temporary exhibit; a rare art collection not previously displayed honoring the historical legacy of African Americans on the B&O Railroad. Become immersed in the lives and labor of such seminal B&O Railroad workers as Thurgood Marshall, Fearless Mentor Williams, Charles Wright and Maggie Hudson. The exhibit is at the B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt Street in Baltimore.

The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum celebrates Black History Month throughout the entire month of February. The museum hosts an assortment of events including roundtables, documentaries; panel discussions and so much more. The Museum is located 1601-03 E. North Avenue. 410-563-3404.

Enjoy a living history performance, film and talk about the NAACP and its leaders from the Jim Crow and Civil Rights era,. See a living history performance of activist Juanita Jackson Mitchell, hear a lecture on the Baltimore Branch by Professor Prudence Cumberbatch and conclude with a film screening of Mr. Civil Rights: Thurgood Marshall & The NAACP; NAACP artifacts and panels covering 97 years of Maryland history will be on view.

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Amy Davis, author of “Flickering Treasure: Rediscovering Baltimore’s Forgotten Movie Theaters” and Baltimore Sun Photographer will discuss her book and show her exhibit

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Rosa “Rambling Rose” Pryor-Trusty, also author of two books and noted Entertainment Columnist for the Baltimore Times and the African-American Newspaper will share her perspective on The Avenue’s Entertainment History.

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Melba Moore will make a special guest appearance and will sing “Lean on Me” at the Arena Players when they host the Broadway play “Purlie” in celebration of the Musicals “50th” Broadway Anniversary on Friday, February 14, 2020 at 8 p.m. at the Arena Players, 801 McCulloh Street. Renowned musician, David Bunn will be presenting a special presentation. For more information, call 410-728-6500.

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Lou Fields will host a Black History Program honoring Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and Leon Day just to name a few on Saturday, February 15, 2020 beginning at 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Maryland and at the Vulcan Blazers Firefighters Hall. For more information, call 443-983-7974.

Well, my dear friends, I am now ending my column this week with a surprise. I have started my third book, naming it “Black History in Baltimore & Maryland; Who, What, When & Where, 1950s-1980s,” that means I am looking for pictures. That’s right! I want photos of you and your family in and around your home, neighborhood, your community; I want photos of your family and friends doing their thing during these years; your mother, father, children, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters; grandparents and great-grands. I want pictures of your favorite street in Baltimore, beaches, movie theaters, parks, night clubs, bars, bowling alleys, skating rings; well-known organizations, preachers, churches restaurants, etc. You get the idea. Now, remember every photo must have the following information: names, place and year. Please send to my email.

If you need me call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosaporyor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello my dear friends, I hope everything is well with you. My prayers go out to the family and friends who may have lost a loved one recently on the streets of Baltimore. I will try to talk about some things that will cheer you up for a moment.

If any of you are planning a wedding or an engagement party, stop looking. I have a perfect place for you that you may not even know exists. I am talking about the Historic Cloisters Castle, which dates back to 1932, with many architectural elements that date back even further which gives the house a much older appearance. The Castle features include a four-story spiral stair tower; chapel; cloistered garden; windmill; elaborate stained-glass windows and doors; multiple fireplaces; hand-painted murals; ornamental ironwork; and balconies. Now doesn’t that sound like a picture of beauty and a place to have an elegant event? Well, the Cloisters Castle invites newly engaged couples to kick off 2020 with a castle tour and meetings with local vendors at their Open House this winter.

Caterers, photographers, florists and more will be on hand to help with all planning needs to create the perfect wedding at this historic landmark of Maryland located at 10440 Falls Road in Lutherville, Maryland. Open Houses are scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2020 and Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. on both days. For more information, call 410-821-7448.

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Mark G. Meadows will perform the music of Stevie Wonder on Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Caton Castle Lounge on Caton Avenue & Hilton Street in Baltimore.

Baltimore has some of the greatest musicians— one of them is Mark G. Meadows, acclaimed jazz composer, pianist, vocalist, collaborator, recording artist, teacher and now actor. There is something for everyone in his music, which harmonizes pop, gospel, R&B, Hip-Hop, funk and jazz. Meadows, who released his third studio album “To the People,” in 2016, began his musical odyssey at the age of three with the gift of a toy keyboard. At age five, he started formal piano lessons under the tutelage of renowned Russian classical pianist and pedagogue Rosalie LeVant. Meadow is also an adjunct instructor at Shenandoah Conservatory and at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C., where he directs and arranges for the Mellow Tones. This remarkable musician in person will perform the music of Stevie Wonder at the Caton Castle Lounge on Hilton and Caton Avenue on Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. II will be a great show!

Well, my dear friends, have fun, I got to go, but remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello my music friends, communities and fans. I am going to talk to you about music and musicians who have brought music of all kinds into our lives. I personally believe it has been woven into our lives no matter our lifestyle. After reading an article about musicians of the past and how they struggled to perform in various venues, particularly on the East Coast, it made me remember about those times since I am a former professional musician and singer myself. I wonder what life would be like without jazz, blues, roots, and R&B and the musicians who play them. I believe it would be a very sad world.

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Founder of the non-profit Dance Baltimore, a superwoman in the arts & entertainment world, Cheryl Goodman,. Renowned artist, performer, writer Goodman shares her gift and talent by opening classes to all types of dancing every Tuesday at Maryland Academy of Dance, 7097 Milford Industrial Blvd, Pikesville, Maryland. For more information, call at 410-370-8994.

I thank God for organizations such as Left Bank Jazz Society, Baltimore Chamber Jazz Society, Jazz Expressways Foundation, Baltimore Jazz Alliance, and Jazz Foundation of America, just to name a few.

Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) has been keeping jazz, blues, roots, and R&B alive for over 30 years by providing direct assistance to the people responsible for the music. Changes in the industry have left many behind, including underground legends, session players, and even the big names themselves. When age, illness, or disaster threatens a long career, many have nowhere to turn.

JFA keeps the rent paid, helps put food on the table, and lends a personal helping hand so that musicians can go back to doing what they love and what has been so precious to them—.making their music. Their social work services provide housing assistance, pro bono medical care, and emergency financial support to musicians in crisis. School programs that include music, jazz in particular, provide dignified employment for musicians who are unable to tour and reaches thousands of public schoolchildren every year.

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Happy Birthday to Baltimore’s renowned radio personality and Diva, Doresa Harvey who supports everybody in all walks of life. If you’re having a gospel show, bar party, jazz concert, Reggae Party, cabaret, crab feast, oldies show, children’s event, or just a community festival, you look up and there she is. She also celebrates 28 years in radio.

These musicians have played the soundtrack of our lives and comforted us in times of turmoil. “The Jazz Foundation came through for me in countless ways. They provided emotional and financial support, and they put me to work. Everyone at the foundation understands that healing doesn’t come from just sending someone a check… that helps, but it is only a part of the real healing. The Jazz Foundation sees the entire picture and the whole person, and I don’t know if I would be here today if it wasn’t for their love and care” quoted from a renowned musician.

The JFA team presents this level of compassion and understanding to every client, fostering long-term, personal relationships to empower musicians and restore hope and dignity in the most trying times. So my word to you, please support all music foundations that are incorporated and non-profit; you now know how much a couple of dollars purchasing a ticket at a non-profit music or jazz event or an organization such as the Jazz Foundation of American can help the next generation of musicians.

Okay my friends, you have talked me into it. I will write a third book about Baltimore Black History— all about you, your family and friends, entertainment, etc. It will be an extension from my second book, so my dear friends, I am going to need your help. I need a lot of special pictures with the information to go with it. If you, your family, friends from the ‘50s thru the ‘80s to be included, you must get it to me, I will edit it and include it in my book. Just call me if you have any questions, or email me with any questions.

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Clarence Mack, lovingly known as “Mack” the former owner of the famous bar/lounge called Mack’s C’est Bon Bar & Lounge on the corner of Reisterstown Road and Boarman Avenue in Baltimore for many years died December 30, 2019. Funeral Services are Saturday, January 11th at 9 a.m. at March Funeral Home on Wabash. Our condolences to his wife, Emma, and family.

Well, my dear friends, I got to go now, but if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. Or you can mail me your correspondence to 214 Conewood Avenue, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, in just a few more days we will have made it to another year. It has been a long rough year for many such as losing a love one, the sick and shut-ins, many are in the hospital, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers but if you are reading me now, as my God-father, Biddy Wood, used to say, “you are above ground.” You are in a good place. We must be grateful and thankful for what we have, because if you think about it, no matter how bad you think your situation may be, I promise you someone else is much worse off than you.

I just want to say, it has been a pleasure talking to you this year thrrough my columns and I appreciate you still picking up The Baltimore Times. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. The ongoing success of our free publication depends on you, so keep reading us in 2020. We encourage you to advertise your events, your organization and company with us.

Dennis Chambers, our own Baltimore native & world-wide renowned drummer is back home to perform with Leni Stern, Tom Kennedy and Mike Stern on December 27th & 28th at the An Die Musik Live, 409 N. Charles Street in Baltimore. For more information, call 410-385-2638.

Just in case you have not made your plans for the end of the year celebration, try checking out the “Annual Kwanzaa Celebration & Marketplace” at the Eubie Blake Cultural Center, 847 N. Howard Street on December 28th from 3-7 p.m. It is a free family event. There will be live entertainment and vendors from the Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Baltimore areas. For more information, call 443-250-0478.

Olivia “Libby Libby” Harris passed away last week. Funeral Arrangements was not made at press dead line. “Libby Libby” as she was fondly called, was a dynamite oldies DJ and the sweetest personality you have ever seen. She was the owner of Tequila Sunset Lounge on Pennsylvania Avenue. She was a good friend of mine and will be totally missed; Condolences to her family from Rambling Rose.

Another Pre-New Year’s event is hosted by Sam Brice & John Holt. It will be a “Holiday Dinner & Show” featuring Dave Smooth & the #1 Temptation Review Band on Saturday, December 28th at the American Legion Post #285, 2324 McEldery Street in Baltimore. The event is BYOB, free open buffet, DJ, and dress to impress!

If you have not made other plans, the Champagne Ballroom located 2701 W. Patapsco Avenue in Baltimore is hosting a New Year Celebration featuring The Intruders on Tuesday, December 31 from 8-2 a.m. Tickets include party favors, noise maker’s champagne toast, hot & cold buffet and BYOB. For more information call 410-644-3434.

Also for the end of the year celebration, our girl, Gabrielle Goodman & Friends will be celebrating Kwanzaa and a Year-End Concert on Sunday, December 29 at 5 p.m. at An Die Musik Live at 409 N. Charles Street; with her will be Craig Alston on saxophone, Moe Daniels on piano, Jesse Moody on drums and Reginald Payne on bass. Baltimore’s home grown is a jazz singer, composer, author and associate professor of voice at Berklee College of Music.

Art Sherrod, Jr. will be performing at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in the H Lounge Stage, 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, WV on Tuesday, December 31st from 10 p.m. -2 p.m. For more information, call 800-795-7001.

How about an “Ole Fashion Cabaret” at the Hollywood Firehouse, 24801 Three Notch Road, Hollywood, Maryland on Tuesday, December 31 from 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. and you will be entertained by my group “Signature Live” with free set-ups, BYOB, dinner available. For more information, call 301-481-9165.

Well my dear friends, I got to go. It has been a joy. If you need me call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. Send photos, press releases and flyers to: 214 Conewood Road, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136. UNTIL NEXT YEAR, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Happy Holidays to my dear friends and fans from both me and my “Boo-Boo,” my husband and partner in crime “Shorty.” I just want to say that with all the negative stuff that’s going on in our hometown, we have twice as much to be grateful for— no matter what! I try to spend my energy on positive, fun and happy things in life. So, just follow my lead, just turn on some good music, lie back in your favorite chair, fix yourself your favorite beverage, whether it’s a cup of coffee or tea or a cocktail and enjoy.

Look my friends; life is too short to worry about something or someone you can’t control.

Jazz Expressways Foundation, Inc. will have the pleasure of giving scholarships to two deserving teenagers, Ebban & Ephraim Dorsey, at their SOLD OUT Jazz Expressways Pre-Christmas Jazz & Blues Breakfast on Saturday, December 14, 2019 at the New All Saints Roman Catholic Church on Liberty Heights Avenue. Greg Hatza ORGANization will be performing.

Girlfriend! I just celebrated my 75th birthday and I truly feel so blessed to have a half-way good health, a roof over my head and food in the refrigerator; shoes on my feet and feet to put the shoes on.

I also feel truly blessed that I have this column, my own column “Rambling Rose” for the past 32 years in this fantastic paper, Baltimore Times to be able to communicate with you in words and pictures and to talk to you about what’s going on every week in the Baltimore/Washington, DC Metropolitan area and surrounding counties in our communities and the entertainment world.

I enjoy talking to you about the folks in our community and their accomplishments, as well as about local musicians— keeping you up to date about their gigs, and letting you know when they need your prayers in hardship, sickness and death. I enjoy keeping you informed about the nightclub scene, social-events, concerts, plays and other entertainment.

Dee Brent & Signature Live with Effect Band is the headliner for Carlos Hutchins of CH Productions “Home for the Holidays” Event on Sunday, December 15 at the Forum Caterers, 4210 Primrose Avenue starting at 4 p.m. For more information, call 443-963-5711.

I am especially blessed to have a boss, the publisher of the Baltimore Times who allows me the space to do this; I am blessed to have the best fans and readers to keep my column “Rambling Rose” one of the most popular entertainment columnists on the East Coast.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart and God willing, I am so looking forward to the New Year.

For my Christian and spiritual folks, “The 2019 Christian Writer’s Literary Festival” starts on Saturday, December 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at “The Garage” located 6 E. Lafayette Avenue in Baltimore— it’s free and open to the public and offers the opportunity for Christian authors to share their expertise, testimony and writing ministry in a setting that encourages and inspires Christian writers and Christian book lovers. For more information, call 800-929-1418.

The Peabody Jazz Composers Monthly Forum has partnered with An die Musik Live Jazz Club to bring together music education, creation and performance to the community in Baltimore and the DMV. This unique forum offers students the ability to showcase compositional techniques and collaboration, all inside an intimate venue where many of jazz’s greats have performed. Audiences have the opportunity to listen in on the creative processes of many of the most promising young artists today. Peabody Jazz and An die Musik Live host the Jazz Composers Forum in effort to give the next generation of jazz informed musicians creative and performance outlets like never before. On December 13, 2019 performing at the An die Musik will be John Lamkin III Trio with Regina Carter; on December 14 are Alan Blackman and Gary Thomas; on December 15 is Todd Simon Solo Jazz Piano Concert and “Roots Café Christmas Show with Karen Collins & Chris Ousley” and on December 16th the Dunbar Alumni Jazz Band Annual Duke Ellington Nutcracker Suite & much more. An die Musik is located at 409 N. Charles Street in Baltimore City.

Oh my goodness, Honey Child, I have ran out of space, I got to go, but if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. Or you can send your correspondence, photo, flyers & press release to 214 Conewood Road, Reisterstown, Maryland. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

Hello everyone, how are you? Oh, I am doing fine, thank you for asking.

This may be the month of October the beginning of fall, but my calendar is full as if it were the middle of summer. So grab a pen and take notes.

Carlos Hutchins, the man of the hour, the founder of CH Productions will be celebrating the 24th anniversary of his production with tributes to some of the best bands in Baltimore and a special tribute to Baltimore community leaders on Friday, October 18th starting at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post #22, 125 York Road in Towson, Maryland. For information, call 443-963-5711

First, I want to tell you about the True Blue Jazz Festival while we are packing. Yes, my “Boo Boo” and I are going. I had the opportunity to book one of my groups at this festival— Greg Hatza and his band. Believe it or not, this will be my first opportunity to go to this festival. Let me give you some background of this festival, not to be confused with the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival, which will also be on at the same time but not associated with each other. Okay, the True Blue Jazz is an independent Jazz Festival. They are a recognized 501(c)3, conceived and produced by Eddie Sherman and Peggy Raley who are focused on “Straight Ahead” or “Mainstream” Jazz, largely featuring songs of great American Standards songbook from 1900 to present day, from the birth of the Blues and Dixieland Jazz to the popular tunes that become the soundtrack of American.

The 7th Annual True Blue Jazz Festival returns to downtown Rehoboth Beach Delaware from October 16 to October 20, 2019. True Blue Jazz delivers the real deal in the most intimate setting of jazz show venues in the area, including: the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel on Olive Avenue Downtown Rehoboth Beach and the Rehoboth Beach Firehouse as their primary venues.

The line-up is as follows: True Blue Youth Jazz appreciation night, The Fred Hughes Trio with guest artist, saxophonist & clarinetists, Peter & Will Anderson, Kat Edmonson, Baltimore’s Own Greg Hatza ORGANization and a second show with Hammond B-3 Quartet, The Greg Hatza ORGANization, Maynard Ferguson Tribute Orchestra Columbia Jazz Band; the Bill Charlap Trio, Cody Leavel & Gerald Chavis, Eddie Sherman Show featuring vocalist, Peggy Raley with guest Artists and so much more.

“Jazz in Cool Places” featuring John Lamkin at the Carroll Mansion October 19th 2-4 p.m. 800 E. Lombard Street with Mike Harriston on sax, Bob Butta on piano, Mike Graham on bass and Jesse Moody on drums

Here in town, join us for an afternoon of incredible music by composer, musician, and educator Dr. John Lamkin in one of Baltimore’s most significant historic buildings, the Carroll Mansion located at 800 E. Lombard Street on Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 2 p.m. Dr. Lamkin received the “Jazz Heroes Award from the Jazz Journalist Association for having a significant impact on jazz music in the Baltimore community. Currently he is a member of the National Association for Music Educators and the international Trumpet Guild. Congrats my friend.

Want to have some fun, feel like dancing, then “The Crew” invites you to their Friday Nite Oldies Dance Party” on Friday, October 18, 2019 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Caton Castle Lounge every third Friday of the month this group packs the house at 20 S. Caton Avenue off Hilton Street.

Oh! You don’t want to miss Gary Thomas, Baltimore’s renowned saxophonist with his trio and guest pianist Miki Hayama on Saturday, October 19 for two shows, 8:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at the An Die Musik Live!, 409 N. Charles Street. Those of you who love jazz this should be a real treat. Welcome home Gary.

I am so sorry, I have so much more to tell you, but I am truly out of space, but I do want to send my condolences to the family of Dr. Reppard Stone who passed away last week.

I really got to go now. Remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.