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On November 14, 1960, four six-year-old girls – Ruby Bridges, Gail Etienne, Tessie Prevost, and Leona Tate – made history by desegregating public schools in New Orleans. Collectively, they became known as the “New Orleans Four.” However, Ruby Bridges became a household name, while the other three became overlooked, unsung heroines.

In a poignant interview on the Underground Magnolia Podcast, Gail Etienne and Tessie Prevost share their heartfelt firsthand accounts of that fateful day. They discuss the courage it took to face hostile crowds that day and beyond, the impact on their lives, and how they reclaimed their place as pioneers in the Civil Rights Movement.

Joining the conversation is film director and producer Diedra Meredith (also known as singer and musician Deepa Soul). She sheds light on her upcoming documentary, “The New Orleans Legacy Project,” which aims to explore the full narrative of all four girls.

*Note that this interview was conducted in April 2024, just months before Tessie Prevost's death in July 2024.

For more information on the "New Orleans Four" and "The New Orleans Legacy Project," go to https://www.neworleanslegacyproject.org.

CONTACT:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undergroundmagnoliapodcast/?hl=en

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In the latest episode of the Underground Magnolia Podcast, jazz guitarist Garry Percell takes center stage with his remake of the classic slow jam, “Going In Circles.” Collaborating with singer Tony Terry, Percell and Terry breathe new life into this timeless song.

Key Points:

• Collaboration with Tony Terry: Percell invited Tony Terry, best known for his 1990 hit “With You,” to join him on the retelling of “Going In Circles.” Despite not knowing each other personally, their undeniable musical chemistry shines through in this newest version.
• Origins of the Song: “Going In Circles” was first popularized by Friends of Distinction in the late '60s. Over the years, it has been reinterpreted by artists like Luther Vandross and Charlie Wilson.
• Sound Journey: Percell grew up with a musical family that supported his love for the guitar and his 25-plus years of guitar expertise. His biggest artist influence? The legendary Ernie Isley (The Isley Brothers). As a mainstay on smooth jazz radio, Percell wears multiple hats: producer, composer, and sought-after studio and stage musician. His collaborations span genres, including playing with memorable artists like Chairman of the Board and the Betty Davis “Funk House” band. He most recently cut singles with saxophonists Marcus Anderson and Jason Jackson. Notably, Adam Hawley, the best-selling guitarist, produced Percell's “Going in Circles.”
• Personal Dedication: Percell dedicates this passionate ballad to his late daughter.
• Singles Strategy: Rather than full albums, Percell strategically releases impactful singles.

Listen to the full episode to find out more.

MUSIC:
Theme: Jazz Addict’s Intro by Cosimo Fogg

Going In Circles by Garry Percell, featuring Tony Terry
With You by Tony Terry
Smooth Strut by Garry Percell
Reaction by Garry Percell, featuring Jason Jackson
Don't Stop By Garry Percell, featuring Marcus Anderson

CONTACT:
Underground Magnolia website: (https://www.undergroundmagnolia.com/)
Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/undergroundmagnoliapodcast/?hl=en)

Send questions/comments and requests to contact@undergroundmagnolia.com.

To be featured on the podcast, send an email.

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In this episode of Underground Magnolia Podcast, we’re joined by Janine Coveney—a veteran magazine editor, journalist, creative writer, and cultural commentator. We discuss her movie podcast, Words On Flicks, her contributions to the bestselling book series, “Women Behind The Mic” and her illustrious career in media and entertainment.

Janine’s career spans roles as an editor at Essence and Billboard, the revered bible of music magazines. Her writings have also graced the pages of "JazzTimes," "Huffington Post," and over 50 liner notes essays for CD releases, and much more.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

Words On Flicks Podcast on BlogTalkRadio:

Janine shares insights into her movie podcast, which she hosts, edits, and produces. We’ll explore her passion for cinema and the art of storytelling by discussing:

• Why she started a movie podcast and the process it takes to keep it thriving.
• Bringing her media and entertainment colleagues on for added perspective.
• The importance of the cultural phenomenon, “American Fiction,” which won an Oscar for best adapted screenplay and numerous other accolades.
• How the “Bob Marley: One Love” biopic resonated differently for movie and music fans versus cultural critics.
• The significance of the Turner Classic Movies (TCM) network and the addition of a much needed African American perspective.
• And more.

“Women Behind The Mic” Book Series Celebrates Black Women Behind the Scenes in Music:

• Two editions of the popular book (available on Amazon) feature essays by powerful Black women in music.
• In the 2023 first edition, “Women Behind The Mic: Curators of Pop Culture Volume One - Word To The Wise,” Janine penned an essay.
• In the second edition, “Women Behind The Mic: Curators of The Culture Volume Two - The Hip-Hop Edition,” released in March, she not only wrote an essay but also edited contributions from additional Black women executives in the industry.

Icons, Controversy, and Resilience:

• Janine and Underground Magnolia Podcast host/creator, Desiréia Valteau, reminisce about beloved music figures they interviewed and met over the years, including Smokey Robinson (with a hilarious story about Janine’s encounter), Gladys Knight, Barry White, El DeBarge, and Tupac.
• They also talk about the impact of sexual assault allegations affecting Black men music moguls and other men in entertainment. And, how the allegations have empowered both women and men to fight back regardless of the outcomes.

For more information on Janine Coveney, go here: wordsonflicks.blogspot.com.

MUSIC:
Theme: Jazz Addict’s Intro by Cosimo Fogg

Breaking Down by Groove Bakery
Affection by Sappherios
The Way by Mike Leite
Lifestyle by Alex-Productions
Grey by Friendzoned
Jazzy Beat by Glitch
Orchestral Funky Hip Hop Beat by Glitch
Nintendo 64 by Toitrax
Antidepresseur by Friendzoned

CONTACT:
Underground Magnolia website: (https://www.undergroundmagnolia.com/)
Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/undergroundmagnoliapodcast/?hl=en)

Send questions/comments and requests to contact@undergroundmagnolia.com.

To be featured on the podcast, send an email.

Support the show