Charm's Chatter
The Problem with Water Persists
Posted on: 09-07-2010The World Water Week in Stockholm is happening now until Sept 11th. Leaders, experts from all over the world meet to develop ways to solve the global issue of water. There are three critical issues at the moment:
1)The spreading of water borne diseases
Bad water kills more people than Malaria, AIDS and wars combined. Every year 1.8 million people die from diarrheal disease attributed to unsafe water, mostly children under five.
2)Increased spreading of chemicals in our water
Increased chemicals in agriculture, business development and household, pharmaceutical residues eventually end up in our waterways. According to a recent U.S. study, newborn babies have on average 230 man-made substances in their blood.
3)Consumers' role in environmental problems
As consumers we should consider our role in promoting destruction of our environment, of our waterways.
The problem with water is not as far away from our home as we think. It is just not in developing countries such as India, Africa, Bolivia. It is right here, at home. In California, we have drought. Most of our beaches have become unsafe. Tuna is not safe to eat due to mercury. The bottled water we purchase in bulk from Costco continues to pollute our beaches, our landfills and other landfills in developing countries.
We can change and there is hope. There are tons of information out there on how to make small changes. I invite you to visit some of my favorite organizations:
Foodandwaterwatch.org
Water.org
TheWaterProject.org
Water1st.org
GlobalWater.org
Tell me what you think: charmainesings@charmaineclamor.com
"Flow" Music Video Coming Soon!
Posted on: 08-13-2010We finished shooting the music video for "Flow," a track off my upcoming album, "Something Good." I am excited to share it with you! Here is a photo from the shoot. I am with the students from Our Lady of Refuge Elementary School. They also sang with me on the track.
The Pursuit of Life
Posted on: 07-04-2010It is 4th of July, Independence Day. Most people would say that I am accomplishing a lot, living a dream. I gave up physical therapy to pursue a career in music. And I am doing well, of course not without challenges. However, there are still some yearnings in my heart that I want to pursue such as travel to places I've never seen, learn more, actively do more toward the environment, toward the global issue of water, learn more about indigenous music and instruments from my country and document them, write, teach. Oh, so much more! And today, on Independence Day, as an immigrant to this country, I am reminded that I have the freedom to pursue my passions! I am in a country that not only allow the pursuit of life but encourages it.
Something Good
Posted on: 06-28-2010Production is done on "Something Good," my 4th U.S. album and I am EXCITED to unleash this to the world! I believe this album describes the musical journey I've had and defines who I am as a woman, as a human being. The official release date is Oct 1, 2010.
"My Funny Brown Pinay" 3 years after its release
Posted on: 05-09-2010I'm inspired and gratified to see how "My Funny Brown Pinay" has touched so many women (and men!) of color. Three years after its release the song continues to uplift and empower women of color. Here's a recent example from an expressive and intelligent kayumangging Pinay:
http://lahaiseslair.com/jessica/2010/04/13/white-or-another-reason-im-not-happy-with-myself/
Update on My Latest Recording
Posted on: 04-05-2010I am in the process of completing my 4th U.S. album and I can't wait to share it with you! Please keep on checking my website for updates on shows. We recorded at a different studio in the Hollywood Hills. Love it!
My engineer for 4 albums in a row: Mark V
My producer for 4 albums in a row: Michael Konik of FreeHam Records
Lola the studio assistant checking out my goodie bag.
World Water Week Ends
Posted on: 03-31-2010I'm proud of the wealth of information and awareness that occurred during world water week. However, this is just the beginning. The April copy of National Geographic beautifully tackles this issue. Here is a great link on the global water crisis: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater.
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Update on Health Care Reform
Posted on: 03-30-2010Congress has officially completed work on health care reform legislation. President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) into law on March 23. The House and the Senate recently passed a second health care bill (H.R. 4872) to make adjustments to PPACA and President Obama is expected to sign this second bill into law next week. The total estimated cost to implement this health care reform is $940 billion over 10 years with an estimated reduction in budget deficit of $138 billion over the same 10 years. The key provisions of H.R. 4872 relevant to our community include the following:
- Expands coverage to 32 million additional Americans, prohibiting the denial of coverage based on pre-existing conditions and prohibiting increases in premium rates due to pre-existing conditions or gender;
- Individual mandate will require all U.S. citizens and legal residents to obtain health insurance or pay a penalty of up to $695 per adult;
- Individual affordability is achieved through affordability tax credits, based on a sliding scale for individuals and families to obtain health insurance through exchanges up to 400% of the federal poverty level;
- Employers are not required to offer insurance coverage to their employees, but employers with more than 50 full-time employees that do not offer health coverage must pay a fee of $2,000 to the federal government for each uncovered employee, with the first 30 employees being exempt from this fee;
- Small businesses and qualifying nonprofits with 25 or fewer employees with average wages under $50,000 will be eligible for tax credits so they can extend health insurance to their employees and this credit will be made available this year;
- Health insurance exchanges will be established by each state to facilitate enrollment for individuals and small businesses
For more updates on health care reform: http://www.healthreform.gov/
Health care reform, finally
Posted on: 03-21-2010For the first time in our nation's history, Congress has passed comprehensive healthcare reform. Every American will be covered under the toughest patient protections in history. Arbitrary premium hikes, insurance cancellations, and discrimination against pre-existing conditions will now be gone forever. Most of all, we will have peace of mind.
Wondering really what the healthcare reform is about?
Posted on: 03-19-2010Here are some answers:
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-oe-kmiecweb19-2010mar19,0,6451390.story
A Lesson I Must Share
Posted on: 03-17-2010This is a story that I have to share. Its lesson is something the I learned recently.
Subject : FW: Mothers
(both men & women, sons & daughters - need to read this)
BEING A MOTHER....
After 17 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to
take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves
you and would love to spend some time with you.'
* * *
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit
was my MOTHER, who has been alone for 20 years,
but the demands of my work and my two boys had
made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
* * *
That night I called to invite her to go out for
dinner and a movie.
* * *
'What's wrong, aren't you well,' she asked?
* * *
My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a
late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign
of bad news.
* * *
'I thought it would be pleasant to spend some
time with you,' I responded. 'Just the two of us.'
She thought about it for a moment, and then said,
'I would like that very much..'
* * *
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her
house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous
about our date. She waited in the door. She had curled her hair and was wearing the
dress that she had worn to celebrate her last
birthday on November 19th.
* * *
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an
angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go
out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said,
as she got into that new white van. 'They can't wait to hear about our date'.
* * *
We went to a restaurant that, although not
elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my
arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat
down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only
read large print. Half way through the entries, I
lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at
me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips. 'It was I
who used to have to read the menu when you were
small,' she said. 'Then it's time that you relax and
let me return the favor,' I responded.
* * *
During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation- -nothing extraordinary but catching up
on recent events of each other's life. We talked so
much that we missed the movie.
* * *
As we arrived at her house later, she said, 'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.' I agreed.
* * *
'How was your dinner date ?' asked my wife when I got home. 'Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined,' I answered.
* * *
A few days later, my mother died of a massive
heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't
have a chance to do anything for her.
* * *
Some time later, I received an envelope with a
copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place
mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I
paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I
could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife.
You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son..'
* * *
At that moment, I understood the importance of
saying in time: 'I LOVE YOU' and to give our loved
ones the time that they deserve.. Nothing in life is
more important than your family. Give them the time
they deserve, because these things cannot be put off
till 'some other time.'
* * *
Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back
to normal after you've had a baby..... somebody
doesn't know that once you're a mother, 'normal' is history.
* * *
Somebody said you learn how to be a mother by
instinct ... somebody never took a three-year-old shopping. * * *
Somebody said being a mother is boring ....
somebody never rode in a car driven by a teenager with a driver's permit. Somebody said if you're a'good' mother, your child will 'turn out good'.... somebody thinks a child comes with
directions and a guarantee.
* * *
Somebody said you don't need an education to be a
mother.... somebody never helped a fourth grader
with his math.
* * *
Somebody said you can't love the second child as
much as you love the first .... somebody doesn't have two children.
* * *
Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother
is labor and delivery.... somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus for the first day of kindergarten ... or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'
* * *
Somebody said a mother can stop worrying after her
child gets married....somebody doesn't know that
marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a
mother's heartstrings.
* * *
Somebody said a mother's job is done when her last child leaves home...... somebody never had grandchildren.
* * *
Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so
you don't need to tell her.... somebody isn't a mother. Pass this along to all the 'mothers' in your life
and to everyone who ever had a mother. This isn't
just about being a mother; it's about appreciating
the people in your life while you have them....no matter who that person is.
Growing up in a Filipino household, I was not accustomed to expressing my feelings. Filipinos are used to the gray areas, words left unspoken, assumptions left unchallenged. Eventually, after many years in America, I learned that sublimating your feelings and expressions is an ineffective way to live. The best way to communicate is simply to just say what you mean. Now, I tell my parents "I LOVE YOU" whenever I feel like it. It wasn't easy in the beginning, but after much practice, it's become a healthy habit. It makes me feel good; it makes them feel great. Though difficult at the start, I think telling it "how it is," whether expressing love or the contrary, or in your business dealings and social interactions, becomes easier after practice. And if my experience is any example, the practice is very much worth it.
The First Water Festival in Los Angeles
Posted on: 03-15-2010The globalwide issue of water has been close to my heart for many years, even before the excellent documentary FLOW came out. I think it's because I grew up in the Philippines, where potable tap water is not always available in the faucet. In fact, many households & businesses in the Philippines have to obtain water from an outside source, or wait for certain hours during the day or week to have water running in their faucets. This, of course, is not the case in the United State, or at least the places I've resided and visited. Since becoming active with Sierra Club Water Committee, Food & Water Watch, and after watching FLOW, I've become more aware of the global water issue. We're collectively facing drought, abuse of water, lack of access, dehydration, stealing, misrepresentation, pollution, and spoiled bodies of water. Yesterday, I volunteered for the Food & Water Watch at the 1st Water Festival in Los Angeles at the Natural History of Museum in downtown Los Angeles. Not many people attended, which did not surprise me. But it was a missed opportunity for folks to benefit from this informative, uplifting event. On my end, we are educating the public on two programs of Food & Water Watch:
1. Take Back the Tap
+ Say NO to bottled water. First, all those plastic bottles just go to our landfills. Second, tap water is safe to drink. If you don't like the taste, there are many filtration systems available. I use Britta and a personal water bottle with a built-in filter system, from Planet Matters. I've been doing this for years and have not gotten sick yet. In fact, in many cases our tap water, regulated by the EPA, is safer to drink than bottled water. Third, supporting the whole water bottle industry is, well, evil. Just watch FLOW. Finally, you will save some money. How about that?
For more info: http://www.foodandwaterwat
OR http://www.flowthefilm.com
2. Vote NO on the $11.1 billion Water Bond on the November Ballot
+ This bond prioritizes building of dams which does not work and will result in more environmental destruction & pollution.
+Only 2% goes to conservation programs AFTER the funding for dams has been accomplished.
Dangers of Skin Whitening Cream Continues
Posted on: 03-08-2010In Cambodia, a bride-to-be was found dead. The reason is allegedly blood infection from a skin whitening cream called Bao Dao cream which contains high level of mercury. The bride rubbed the cream all over her body to whiten her skin in preparation for her wedding which caused severe allergic reactions such as peeling skin, chest discomfort then losing consciousness. Vendors have taken off Bao Dao from their shelves after learning about the woman's death.
A Great Bit of Wisdom
Posted on: 03-08-2010 One evening an old Cherokee Indian told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.
"My son, the battle is between the two wolves inside us all.
One wolf is Malicious- it is called the Destroyer.
It is anger, sorrow, self-doubt, negative-talk, demeaning thoughts, resentment, inferiority, and guilt.
It eats away at the marrow of our Self.
The second wolf is Good- it is called the Healer.
It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, truth, awareness, kindness, forgiveness, and empathy.
It enriches and nurtures our Being.
The grandson then asked his grandfather,
"Which wolf wins?"
The elder simply said,
"The one you feed."
The Global Water Crisis
Posted on: 03-06-2010Our planet is in the midst of a global water crisis. Citizens of many countries do not have access to clean drinking water. Water shortages are felt all over the world, including in my own backyard, in California. On March 22, the whole world will be celebrating World Water Day to raise awareness of the importance of freshwater and to advocate for sustainable management of freshwater resources. There are two events in Los Angeles coming up:
1) March 14, 9:30 - 3:30 PM, at Los Angeles Natural History Museum
I will be volunteering for the Food & Water Watch organization. If you are interested in participating please check out their website.
2) April 18, 2010, The Run For Water
There will be a 6km run/walk (the average distance many women & children walk every day to secure water) taking place over the course of 24 hours around the world. The walk is aimed at igniting a tipping point to help solve the water crisis. There is one in Los Angeles. Please check out the website for details.
Helpful Fact About Water: Bottled water is not good for our planet for many reasons, one of which is that there are more than 60 million single-use water bottles thrown away each day and 20 million barrels of oil used each year to make plastic bottles. If you must purchase bottled water, it is best to purchase Primo Water (www.primowater.com) or Biota Rocky Mountain Spring Water (www.biotaspringwater.com) as they are packaged in compostable bottles. They are both sourced in the U.S. Primo is municipal water that has been through some extra filtration and Biota is spring water that's packaged close to its Colorado source.
Two skin whitening products from China were banned in the Philippines due to high levels of mercury.
Posted on: 03-03-2010I've expressed many times in interviews, during live performances, and online chats my strong desire for my kayumanggi (or brown) sisters to embrace their indigenous beauty. Trying to achieve artificial "whiteness" has negative psychological and social effects; it also can be a serious health issue. In the case of two whitening products from China that were recently banned in the Philippines, the creams contained high levels of mercury, which can cause multi-organ failure, among many other symptoms. There are other whitening products recently banned in other countries (Kenya, Brunei) because of their health risks. Common ingredients that are harmful include mercury, hydroquinone and tretinoin. A recent article in Philippine Daily Inquirer caught my eye. "Brown is beautiful," Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay said, and I could not agree more.
Happy New Year!
Posted on: 01-23-2010
To slightly misquote the High Priestess of Soul, Ms. Nina Simone: It's a new year, it's a new day, it's a new life...and I'm feelin' good! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! May 2010 bring all the blessings of life -- including the fellowship of music. If you haven't yet heard the big news in my neighborhood, please see below...
I look forward to a magnificent 2010 in your company!
your funny brown pinay,
Charmaine
MANILA, HERE I COME!!!
DAVID BYRNE, FATBOY SLIM...AND ME!
For more than a year, I've had to keep a big secret...Now it's official: In February, Nonesuch Records releases "Here Lies Love," one of the most talked about recording projects of the new year. A disco-pop song cycle about Imelda Marcos (seriously!), the double CD and DVD is the result of Talking Heads frontman David Byrne's collaboration with Fatboy Slim and 22 female guest stars, including Cyndi Lauper, Tori Amos, Martha Wainwright,Natalie Merchant, Santigold, Sia, and yours truly!
I'll be back in my birth country for the month of February. More details coming soon, including a new album for Viva Records and exciting concert dates at the Philippines International JazzFest!
4th U.S. Album in Production
My fourth U.S. release is currently in production and will be coming out later on this year.
On Thanksgiving Day
Posted on: 11-25-2009
Grateful for life and all the joy it brings: the laughters, love, friendship, art, health, the freedom to pursue my life's passion.Wishing all a warm and memorable thanksgiving.
Photo: Clamor, Bohol Bee Farm, Philippines
Heroes at the AAJF
Posted on: 11-02-2009I discovered some heroes this weekend at the Asian American Jazz Festival:
Paul Im -- the brain of the AAJF who had a vision and turned it into a reality without any reservation; the man who sold his horn to help finance the festival.
Abe Lagrimas, Jr. –- the hardworking, super humble, multi-instrumentalist virtuoso who performed three days in a row, three consecutive sets during the closing and did not miss a beat and performed each set with utmost professionalism and passion.
Hiromi –- she made me feel good to be alive.
The Charmaine Clamor Team, my musical family –- for their generous support when I needed it the most.
Photo courtesy of: Scott Mitchell
This letter will guide you on what to give to the Philippine typhoon victims
Posted on: 10-16-2009Overseas Filipino Council International (OFCI) is an organization I joined a year ago. I am sharing this letter from our President to give you guidance on what to donate to the victims of typhoon Ondoy & Pepeng. Thank you for your time & continued support of our kababayans. - Charmaine
OFCI distributed relief goods in Marikina, using some of your monetary donations and donations in kind. I personally went to the site and looked at the devastated place with the help of some friends and leaders of PPP and OFCI in Marikina.
Let me tell you that this reaching out will never happen if we did not get help from some of you. Through the initiative of our OFCI Treasurer, Carlos Caramanzana from NY,who provided the seed money of $300.00, I was able to buy laundry soap, toothpaste, canned foods (not sardines), from Lou Arsenio's friends and workers, they donated Soap for Alipunga (what is Alipunga in English? Fungus? Athlete's Foot, Virus? and lots of used clothings, that were washed and ironed. We went out of our way, to use some household money for laundry. Down the first floor of this Cityland Tower there are 3 laundrymats that accomodated the laundering of those clothes. OFCI wants to restore the dignity of those people, if we give, we want to give wholeheartedly, we gave them clean clothings. I learned from my husband that giving should not mean giving rejects, which according to him '' I WILL NOT EVEN GIVE THOSE TO MY WORST ENEMY". If you have read my posting to all, I criticised those outfits that gave 2 cans of sardines, one kilo of rice to the people of Marikina. Why give them canned foods and rice when they can not even cook? No electricity! Buy all the foods from the food courts and distribute them to each households, that would relieve hunger and frustrations.
Anyway, we are not even done yet, there are people waiting for help in the provinces of Pangasinan, La Union, Baguio, Pampanga. An appeal is going on, I will be going to Pangasinan, La Union, possibly not Baguio,(Our Rotarian friends , Tom Panis, Joanne Tan and the rest are helping, I am scared of the Landslide), if there are some goods to be delivered. How I wished we are as big as the ROTARIANS.
Anita Sese-Schon
President, OVERSEAS FILIPINO COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL, HQRTR, WASHINGTON STATE
Members are from around the world.
Lyndale Beng Causing, President, OVERSEAS FILIPINO COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL, Philippine Chapter.,
JAZZIPINO Tour - Manila, Philippines
Posted on: 09-22-2009My first day in Manila: Brunch at JJ's with VIVA Records' Marketing Group.
Such nice group of people and oh, so young!
JAZZIPINO hits Manila!
Posted on: 09-15-2009Hello, friends! I am now here in Manila to promote my new album, JAZZIPINO, on Viva Records. I am excited to bring my music to my kababayans, my brothers & sisters. I will be doing live shows, radio & TV tour. All of the details are on my SHOWS page. See you at a live event soon! Magkita-kita po tayo.My Personal Healthcare Story
Posted on: 08-28-2009I consider myself a relatively healthy person. I eat sensibly and engage in moderately-intense exercise at least 3 times a week. Before diving into the strange world of show business, I worked full-time as a physical therapist; I had excellent health insurance.About 5 years ago, when I began my solo singing career in earnest, I had to leave the comforts of a regular income and health care benefits. During this time, I was diagnosed with benign breast cyst. Here I was, a young, healthy female, and I could not get insurance (after Cobra). Transitioning to a full-time career as an artist was one of the hardest decisions in my life, and I would hate to discourage other Americans not to pursue their passions because of health care. I almost did, but because I was so passionate about music I persevered, continuing to try to get health insurance after many rejections. After one year of being uninsured (and being very scared about it, as I had always had health insurance!) I was finally approved by a company that gave me limited access and was very expensive. As an artist who was starting out in the business, I was paying close to $500-a-month on health insurance, with a high deductible. I know firsthand that there is definitely something wrong with our system and it needs to be changed NOW.
I took care of my health – no doubt about it – and I am a strong advocate for personal responsibility. But there are many illnesses that are beyond anyone’s control.
How do you take care of your brothers and sisters? Health care is a necessity. If we can finance a very expensive war, I know we can do the same for America’s health!
I'd like to hear your healthcare story. Email me: charmainesings@charmaineclamor.com
Charmaine Clamor Wins 6th Annual Asian Heritage Award in Performing Arts
Posted on: 07-27-2009On July 25th, aboard the USS Midway in San Diego Harbor, I won the 6th Annual Asian Heritage Award in Performing Arts. The experience was made even more special by the attendance of the Guest of Honor, Major General Antonio Taguba, the Filipino-American hero who delivered the brave military report on the abuses at Abu Ghraib.
Friends, it sounds like a cliche but it's the absolute truth: I could not have done it without you. THANK YOU. I am profoundly touched and inspired by your support.
Health Care Reform Needs You Now
Posted on: 07-08-2009Please call your senators right now and ask them to support President Obama's three principles for real health care reform. If you live in California. Please call:
Senior Senator Dianne Feinstein at 202-224-3841
Junior Senator Barbara Boxer at 202-224-3553
(Not your representatives? Go here to look them up:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/callcongress/healthcare/?source=20090707_HC_Call)
These calls are an easy but powerful way to make a difference. Just tell whoever answers the phone that you're a constituent (mention what city you're calling from), and that you're counting on your senator to support real health care reform, which must:
1.Reduce costs 2.Guarantee a choice of plans and doctors -- including the choice of a robust public insurance option 3.Ensure quality, affordable care for every American
Remember, this is not a fight between Democrats & Republicans. This is for all of us.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Charmaine
Health Care Reform
Posted on: 06-09-2009I think we all can agree that our country needs to repair its healthcare system, and the time is NOW. What we have just does not work.I believe some of you know that I am a licensed physical therapist, and I continue to supervise a physical therapy clinic once or twice a week when I am in town. As a physical therapist, I find myself being dictated to by insurance companies. They decide how many times I may treat a client. The insurance companies do this because in the past many health care professionals overutilized the health care system and ordered extravagant treatments, tests, and,yes, physical therapists visits that were often unncecessary. Because of the defensive strategy of insurance companies, many clients are currently not getting the treatments that they need. I’ve seen cases of elderly clients being sent home although they do not have the means or skills to live independently. Some of them end up breaking their hips from a fall -- and must be readmitted to the hospital. I see workers being sent back to work still unhealed, not ready for the job duties they have to perform. They end up reinjuring themselves. Clients on MediCal get fewer visits than clients who have better insurance coverage. I have to spend a lot of time on paperwork trying to get authorization for treatments and equipment for my clients. And many times these treatments are unpaid.
I don’t consider myself an angel. Maybe I can spend more time on patients because I don’t have children -- other than my recordings!… I don't have the exact answer. But how about other healthcare professionals? Do you think all of them are fighting hard to get their clients the treatments they need? By the way, paperwork often means writing justification that a certain intervention is needed, then following up with phone call after phone calls. While all of this is happening, the client waits.
I recently attended a meeting in which health care reform was discussed. Nothing I heard there surprised me. Because of our broken system, people are dying from preventable causes; people are going bankrupt from hospital bills; hospitals are laying off people and closing because clients cannot pay for their health care. Meanwhile, a health insurance agent announced that Blue Shield will be increasing its premium by 20% in two months.
President Barack Obama wants a bill at his desk on health care reform by August of this year. We need our politicians to hear our need for a reform! And most important, what kind of a reform we need. I am in favor of single-payer universal health care: Everyone will have health care. This will also take out profit from the equation so that health care professionals can just focus on what they were trained for, that is, to TREAT the ill. And, of course, prevention.
People all over the nation started meeting to talk about the change that we need. Join us! On June 27th , all over the United States, a health fair is being launched. Part of this health fair’s goal is to serve the needy, and the other part is to show in numbers that health care reform is something that we can NOT put off any longer.
We need you! This is the time to speak out. To join, email Stacy Cohen: stacy@30barack.com
For more information: www.30barack.com
Another Year Older: A Confession From A Gemini
Posted on: 06-02-2009Another year older and though my body sometimes remind me of my physical age, I still feel very young! What a strange phenomenon. I am happy to share this journey with all of you. Thank you for your wonderful birthday wishes.With Gratitude
Posted on: 04-14-2009I thank all of you who joined us at Catalina Bar & Grill on April 3rd. We had a blast! I'm thrilled with the positive feedback you gave us for our new material we'll be doing on the upcoming jazzipino album. Yey!Great news: The Filipino Academy of Movie Arts & Sciences, the "Oscars" of the Philippines, is honoring me with a special trophy as "Philippine Pride Best Jazz Vocalist" during their "57th Annual Gabi ng Parangal," in Manila, on June 27th. I'm looking forward to returning to the Philippines again, and I thank you for all your support, which helped earn me this tremendous honor. Maraming salamat.
I'm off to New York this weekend for a production of "The Vagina Monologues," acting and musical directing...I hope to see you there!
Happy 2009!
Posted on: 01-18-2009This year is starting out great for me. January has been filled with wonderful gigs in the U.S., then I go back to the Philippines in February for the Manila International Jazz Festival. This month I'm on two magazine covers: Jazz Improv and Filipinas Magazine. Unbelievable! Most of all, I am staying healthy (pesco-vegetarian) and living green as humanly possible. I have not blogged in a while and I just want to connect with all of you again. Thank you for all your support and positive energy. It is much appreciated. I wish all of you a prosperous, healthy, and exciting 2009!I am Proud to be an American!
Posted on: 11-04-2008The result of tonight's election brought back my trust in our country and my pride to be an American. We were able to look outside our differences and UNITE for a better future together. As Obama said during his speech, this is our victory. His election is an opportunity for change but we need to pull together as avid servers of our country to bring about the real change that we all need.I VOTED (7:31AM)!
Posted on: 11-04-2008Wow, what a great feeling! I stood in line at 6:45AM and about a dozen people were already ahead of me. At 7:15 AM I cast my vote. People did not take long at all to vote. It appeared that they knew what they want for this election. I saw some neighbors in line and we visited. I saw a line up to the end of our block when I got out of the polling place. I have never seen a turn out like this for an election before. Very inspiring!My Endorsements for Election 2008
Posted on: 11-02-20081. Senator Barack Obama for President and Senator Joe Biden for Vice President2. Yes on 1A California High Speed Rail-Bond Measure
3. Yes on 2 Prevention of Animal Cruelty Act
4. No on Prop 4 Waiting Period and Parental Notification Before Termination of Minor's Pregnancy
5. No on Prop 7 Renewable Energy Generation
6. No on Prop 8 Eliminates Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry
7. No on Prop 10 Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Renewable Energy Bonds
The Status of Jazz in Los Angeles
Posted on: 10-27-2008I am sharing with you the best way to describe the status of jazz here in Los Angeles. -- CC"Jazz: Competing and Competing" [10/26/2008]
One of the 20th Century's greatest artists, a cat named Thelonius Monk, the pianist and composer of countless jazz standards, including “Round Midnight” and “Well, You Needn’t,” left behind, among other things, a brilliant son (the drummer, T.S. Monk), a lucrative publishing catalogue, and a legacy of musical encouragement. The Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz is one of America’s most powerful forces in propagating and teaching an art form that keeps reaching for the stars, even as the culture at large does everything it can to marginalize jazz music and repeatedly declare it deceased. The Monk Institute conducts an annual competition, a talent search, dedicated each year to a different musical discipline. (This year it’s the saxophone.) The winners get big scholarships and recording contracts, and perhaps even more important, an effective marketing campaign that instantly brands them as musicians worth listening to. It’s the “American Idol” of jazz, except that with the Monk Competition the judges actually know what they’re talking about and the speed-dialing and text-messaging skills of teenaged girls have little impact on the results.
Still, as we’ve noted previously in this space, if you had to pick someone who never would have won the Monk Competition in his lifetime, it would be Thelonius Monk. Iconoclasm doesn’t play well in the mainstream.
Sadly, jazz music here in Los Angeles, is slowly drifting toward the margins of the culture. Aside from the gala extravaganzas like the Monk Competition, which concludes at the Kodak Theater – site of the Academy Awards and the “American Idol” finals – with brand name guests like Joni Mitchell, Sting, and Bono lending their illustrious names to the event, most jazz concerts in Los Angeles are poorly attended. On a recent Saturday night in Hollywood, the greatest quartet in America, the Tierney Sutton Band, played to fewer than 100 people. The TSB isn’t an obscure outfit; they’ve been the beneficiaries of another splendid marketing tool, the Grammy Awards. But even two consecutive nominations in the Vocal Jazz category don’t guarantee an audience for music that is profound, transcendent, and mildly challenging, not to mention astonishingly beautiful. Our leading arbiter of cultural worthiness, the Los Angeles Times, recently axed jazz coverage from its Calendar pages. No reviews, no previews, no feature stories, no listings, nothing. The longtime jazz critic there, Don Heckman, who has more than 5,500 signed articles at the paper, has been ushered to the sidelines, where the Times (and the culture at large) believes he belongs, leaving more editorial space for vital coverage of indispensable reality TV shows and celebrity fashions. Mr. Heckman’s ideas can be found now at his new Website: http://irom.wordpress.com/. But if you want a comprehensive listing of who’s playing where – or even an incomprehensive listing – you’ll have to look elsewhere than our local newspaper, which behaves as though jazz music doesn’t exist, except as a peculiar subculture unworthy of serious consideration.
If you find this state of affairs an affront to your aesthetic sensibilities, the man in charge of the Calendar section is Leo Wolinsky. Leo's email's address is Leo.Wolinsky@latimes.com. Perhaps letting him know that people who care about jazz aren't an entirely silent minority would help.
Those involved with the Monk Institute and all the other fine organizations that teach and present and celebrate America’s grandest contribution to the global arts, must feel like Sisyphus with a Saxophone. The majority of the semi-finalists at the Monk Competition, the majority of graduate students at Berklee College of Music, the majority of wildly talented and passionate musicians struggling to find their voice and vision – most of them will, at best, find work teaching other initiates, who will in turn teach others, who, like the thousands of others before them, will make music that very few people care about.
There is no competition in art. But competition in the cultural marketplace is brutal and unkind. This thing we call jazz is losing, badly. And though many of us are oblivious to the collective loss, we as a nation are losing, too.
The Monk Competition finalists will blow their hearts out. The Tierney Sutton Band will continue to create works of astonishing sublimity. And folks like Don Heckman will try to make sense of it all. Concurrently, our culture will slide further into the smelly muck. “What we play is life,” said Louis Armstrong. How chilling that we collectively seem to prefer an embrace of death. - Michael Konik
********************************************************************************
Michael Konik is a bestselling author, FoxSports TV poker commentator, swinging jazz singer, record label owner and producer, and a true renaissance man. He graciously shared from his Website his Thought of the Week, which I believe elegantly and accurately describes the current status of jazz in Los Angeles. I am outraged that jazz (in the form of listings, feature articles, reviews) is no longer being covered in the Los Angeles Times. If you want your voice to be heard, please speak up and email Editor Russ Stanton at russ.stanton@latimes.com.-- CC
Upcoming Election
Posted on: 10-16-2008After watching the last presidential debate tonight, I am reminded again how incredibly lucky I am. I am a woman, an immigrant, and yet I have the right to vote. This is a right that I cannot take for granted. Many lives were sacrificed so that I can vote on November 4, 2008, which could be the most important election I will face in my lifetime. Tonight's debate was clear: one candidate was centered, focused, and elegant, while the other wass aggressive, angry and uptight. One candidate attempted to answer questions, while the other mostly attacked his counterpart. I hope and pray that America saw what I did tonight.Ella Konik, 1993-2008
Posted on: 09-10-2008Ella Guinevere Konik died peacefully last night at home in her bed, surrounded by family. She was close to 15 1/2. Frank Sinatra once told an interviewer, "They say you only live once. But if you have a life like mine, once is enough." Ella's time on Earth was like that. A white-lab and greyhound mutt, she was adopted at 3 months and spent much of her adult years spreading joy. Ella was a licensed therapy dog and the subject of the book "Ella in Europe" and the Animal Planet TV show "Ella & Me." She was friends with everyone, a beautiful soul encased in white fur. We miss her terribly.Thankful
Posted on: 07-25-2008I was reminded tonight how extremely grateful I am for the many blessings I've received since I started this adventurous exploration of the world of music. All the successes I've earned are because of the hard work of many people -- the devotion, love and endless support of family, friends and musical family. I would like to express tonight, once again, my gratitude to all of you. Ang lahat ng ito ay dahil sa inyo.
Lubos Na Nagpapasalamat,
Charmaine Clamor
Harana Project Completed!
Posted on: 07-09-2008I am so excited! We just completed our harana project; it's mastered and ready for the factory. The album is composed of the most precious harana (serenade songs) from different regions in the Philippines, sung in at least 8 dialects and languages. Different indigenous instruments were used as well. I collaborated with Naxos recording artist, Richard Ickard, and have Mon David, the 2006 London International Jazz Vocal Competition Winner, as a special guest. I cannot wait to share this album with you (and the fabulous photos, too!). Look for the CD in October of 2008.
Miami, Florida Here I Come!
Posted on: 07-01-2008I am sooo honored to be a part of the Coral Gables Summer Concert Series. I will be performing there on July 3 at 8PM. I am also excited to visit Florida for the FIRST TIME!
On a side note....I apologize for not having posted current photos. Stay tuned as amazing photos are coming soon!
Thank you, Miri!
Posted on: 05-18-2008It was my first time in Malaysia and also for my band. After 18 hours of flying we were greeted warmly by the Miri International Jazz Festival (MIJF) staff, who made us feel like royalty. Thank you, Miri, for embracing us, our music and our passion so openly. Thank you MIJF team for taking care of us. Thank you also to all the media for your support of our music and the Festival. We had a memorable time (especially the exploding bass!) and we long to come back to see more of your beautiful country. I thank my fantastic band (Richard Ickard, guitar; Abe Lagrimas, Jr., drums; Gustavo Garcia, percussion; Matt Politano, piano; Dominic Thiroux, bass) and our road manager, Michelle, for sharing this journey with me. Stay tuned for photos!Happy Endangered Species Day!
Posted on: 05-16-2008Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for everyone to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions we can take to help protect our nation's disappearing wildlife and last remaining open space. This year's Endangered Species Day will be celebrated at 70 events at 25 states. If you're interested to find out more please log on to: https://www.givengain.com/cgi-bin/giga.cgi?cmd=cause_dir_custom&cause_id=1704&page=day .Mr. Toti Fuentes
Posted on: 03-28-2008Mr. Toti Fuentes, JazzPhil-USA's 2006 Lifetime Achievement Awardee, passed away today at 9:30 AM ET in Chicago. A mass will be held in his honor in Glendale, California. More details at www.JazzPhil-USA.com.For his love of life and art and for the inspiration that he instilled among us upcoming Filipino artists, he will never be forgotten.
April 4th & 5th at Catalina Bar & Grill
Posted on: 03-24-2008Seems like I have a lot of things to say tonight! Aside from "The Vagina Monologues," I am truly looking forward to my upcoming performances at Catalina Bar & Grill on April 4th and 5th. I have a different special guest each night. On Friday, I will be joined by the winner of the 2006 London International Jazz Vocal Competition, Mr. Mon David! He and I are collaborating on my new releases, and we will be previewing some of them on the 4th. On April 5th, my mentor and biggest supporter, the swinging host of Tasty Tuesdays, Michael Konik and I will be creating some harmony. I will be with Eli Brueggemann on piano, Gary Wicks on bass, Steve Hass on drums and Richard Ickard on guitar. Richard and I are collaborating on our "harana" project together, and we will give a sneak preview on both nights. Wow, exciting times ahead! Please make sure you call for reservations: 323 466 2210.My Theatrical Debut
Posted on: 03-24-2008Wow, I am extremely excited and yet nervous about my first acting debut. I will be performing at the Herbst Theater in San Francisco on Monday, March 31st, doing "Reclaiming Cunt" from The Vagina Monologues. I am looking forward to reuniting with my FWN (Filipino Women's Network) sisters. The proceeds from this show goes to organizations that fight against domestic abuse among girls and women and for our lolas, the comfort women during World War II. Purchase your tickets now. Details on my show page.The Philippine International Jazz Festival has Started
Posted on: 03-04-2008Please go to www.pijazzfest.com for more information on this star-studded festival.Brooklyn
Posted on: 03-04-2008Wow, I've been having such wonderful gigs lately! Thank you to all of those who came out to the Brooklyn Library. What a very warm audience you were! Thank you to my fantastic band (Jeb Patton, piano; Derek Nievergelt, bass; Ben Billelo, drums and Julius Tolentino, sax). And of course, thank you Brooklyn Library especially to Christiana, Barbara, Meredith and Greg for having us. I was able to explore Brooklyn a little bit and I especially liked its diversity and a sense of community that it has. Thanks to all my friends who showed me around and gave this LA girl a great time.
Valentine's at SeaBird
Posted on: 02-19-2008Thank you for all of those who celebrated my first Valentine's Day show with me: my wonderful band (Richard Ickard, guitar; Peter Smith, piano; Gary Wicks, bass; and Abe Lagrimas, Jr. on drums/ukulele), my special guests (the swinging Tasty Tuesdays host, Michael Konik, the wonderful Mr. Mike Wicks (bass) and the superb Glen Doll on harmonica) and our host, KKJZ's very own Mr. Bubba Jackson! Special thanks to Roger and Jewell and the rest of Sea Bird/Roscoe's Waffle & Chicken staff. I look forward to returning.Living Green
Posted on: 02-09-2008One of my New Year's resolutions is to continue to live green, to aggressively pursue my goal of leaving this planet a better place than I found it. We've recently become a one-car family. Instead of driving, we use bikes or walk whenever we can. I just started taking public transportation in Los Angeles, and I was surprised and delighted to discover how unbelievably clean the subway is! These days I only use my car when I must, when distance and time constraints compel me. Our home now employs a tankless water heater, which uses far less energy. I recycle aggressively. I've started supporting local farmers and buying organic products as much as possible. I've also become pseudo-vegetarian: I eat seafood and dairy occasionally, but no meat (this is really tough for a Filipina!). I support fellow artists through I-Tunes. I try to consume less and less. It is challenging to live this way but I do find myself feeling satisfied at the end of the day.JazzPhil-USA Inaugurates the Annual Emil Mijares Scholarship
Posted on: 01-26-2008The Jazz Society of the Philippines, USA (JazzPhil-USA) is now accepting applications for its Emil Mijares Scholarship, named in honor of the recently deceased legendary pianist, arranger, and 2006 JazzPhil-USA Lifetime Achievement awardee. JazzPhil-USA will grant $1000 to a Southern California-based student of Filipino descent. The scholarship is intended for a student who is pursuing education in jazz musicianship, demonstrates promise in the field of jazz, and is committed to the JazzPhil-USA mission of uplifting the Filipino community. Applications and more information are available at www.JazzPhil-USA.com. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2008.Mr. Bob Popescu of Catalina Bar & Grill
Posted on: 01-07-2008Mr. Bob Popescu, owner and booker of Catalina Bar & Grill, passed away on Jan 5th from a massive heart attack. He was a good friend, a tremendous supporter and the one who gave me my first big break in the jazz scene. I will miss him and his mischievous smile. A public viewing will be held Wednesday evening, from 6:30-9PM, at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. (at Gordon), in Hollywood. The funeral is Thursday at 1PM, at the same address.Anthology
Posted on: 01-07-2008Thank you, San Diego, for such a warm welcome. That was a memorable night. Thank you to the Anthology staff for being hip and helpful.3rd Annual Filipino-American Jazz Festival
Posted on: 12-15-2007I had such a wonderful weekend of music, friendship and spiritual uplift. It was truly a pleasure performing with my Kababayans and an honor to meet Maestro Angel Pena. To make the experience more delicious, the Monday after the festival, we received a rave review from the L.A. Times. Thank you, Mr. Don Heckman, and thank you to all our friends who supported the event.Liane Hansen and NPR's "Weekend Edition"
Posted on: 11-11-2007English is my second language. Sometimes I struggle to express my thoughts, which still appear in my brain as Tagalog, my first language. Interviews can be challenging for me. I know what I want to say but sometimes the English doesn't fully cooperate. Thanks to the great Liane Hansen and all the talented people who work on her show, "Weekend Edition," my interview on NPR came out sounding halfway decent. Liane's intelligence, kindness and sensitivity shine through in her interviewing technique, and she made me feel comfortable talking about some of my most important ideas - even if they were expressed in my second language. I'm grateful for the chance to share my story and my music with so many new listeners. Thank you, Liane!Named One of the 100 Influential Filipina Women in the U.S.
Posted on: 10-06-2007I am thrilled to announce that I've been selected as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the United States, in the "Innovator and Thought Leader" category, as the creator of Jazzipino and founder of the Jazz Society of the Philippines, USA ("JazzPhil-USA"). I am receiving my award on Oct 25-26 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Washington DC, at the 5th Filipino Women's Summit. This is such great honor, and I'm looking forward to meeting all my other influential Filipina sisters! For more information on the Filipina Summit: http://www.ffwn.org/FilipinaSummit5.htmThe Even Hipper List!
Posted on: 09-06-2007Here's a freshly updated list of radio stations currently spinning Flippin' Out. If you don't see your favorite local outlet listed here, call or write them and tell them to get hip to Charmaine Clamor and "jazzipino" before you're forced to change the dial!
KCRW, Santa Monica, CA (Tom Schnabel!);
KKJZ, Long Beach, CA (Bubba Jackson! Jai Rich! Nick Tyler! Paul James! Brad Williams!);
KHNS, Haines, AK;
WJAB, Huntsville, AL;
WUAL, Tuscaloosa, AL;
WVUA, Tuscaloosa, AL;
KABF, Little Rock, AR;
KAMP, Tuscon, AZ;
KHSU, Arcata, CA;
KDVS, Davis, CA;
KFSR, Fresno, CA;
KSJS, Gilroy, CA;
KUCI, Irvine, CA;
KPFK, Los Angeles, CA;
KVMR, Nevada City, CA;
KMUD, Redway, CA;
KUCR, Riverside, CA:
KKUP, Santa Clara, CA;
KCSM, San Mateo, CA (Chuy Varela! Chris Cortez!);
KSSU, Sacramento, CA;
KXJZ, Sacramento, CA;
KSDS, San Diego CA;
KJCC, San Jose, CA;
KCBX, San Luis Obispo, CA;
KUSP, Santa Cruz, CA;
KCME, Colorado Springs, CO (Lenny Mazel!);
KRCC, Fort Collins, CO;
KUVO, Denver, CO (Arturo Gomez!);
KBUT, Crested Butte, CO;
KDUR, Durango, CO;
KAFM, Grand Junction, CO;
KMSA, Grand Junction, CO;
KSUT, Ignacio, CO;
KDNK, Carbondale, CO;
KVNF, Paonia, CO;
WCNI, New London, CT;
WHUS, Storrs, CT;
WWUH, West Hartford, CT;
WPKN, Bridgeport, CT;
WNHU, West Haven, CT;
WPFW, Washington, DC;
WDNA, Miami, FL;
WMNF, Tampa, FL;
WCLK, Atlanta, GA;
KTUH, Honolulu, HI;
KALA, Davenport, IA;
KDIC, Grinnell, IA;
KURE, Ames, IA;
KUNI, Cedar Falls, IA;
KWLC, Decorah, IA:
KBSU, Boise, ID;
WEIU, Charleston, IL:
WSIE, Glen Carbon, IL;
WEFT, Champaign, IL;
WUEV, Evansville, IN;
KANU, Lawrence, KA;
WMUW, Wichita, KS;
WRFL, Lexington, KY;
WFPK, Louisville, KY;
KRVS, Lafayette, LA;
WGBH, Boston, MA;
WMUA, Amherst, MA;
WFCR, Amherst, MA;
WRBB, Boston, MA;
WMBR, Cambridge, MA;
WMFO, Medford, MA;
WSHL, North Easton, MA;
WMHC, South Hadley, MA;
WEAA, Baltimore, MD;
WESM, Princess Anne, MD;
WMEB, Orono, ME;
WMPG, Portland, ME;
WMHB, Waterville, ME;
WUPI; Presque Isle, ME;
WCKS, Allendale, MI;
WCBN, Ann Arbor, MI;
WHFR, Dearborn, MI;
WDET, Detroit, MI;
WRJC, Detroit, MI;
WVMV, Farmington Hills, MI;
WYCE, Grand Rapids, MI;
WCMU, Mount Pleasant, MI;
WXOU, Rochester, MI;
WNMC, Traverse City, MI;
WIDR, Kalamazoo, MI;
KMSU, Mankato, MN;
KBEM, Minneapolis, MN;
KFAI, Minneapolis, MN;
KVSC, St. Cloud, MN;
KKFI, Kansas City, MO;
KMNR, Rolla, MO;
KDHX, St. Louis, MO;
KWUR, St. Louis, MO;
WUSM, Hattiesburg, MS;
KBGA, Missoula, MT;
WPVM, Asheville, NC;
WXYC, Chapel-Hill, NC;
WNCU, Durham, NC;
WXDU, Durham, NC;
WTEB, Greenville, NC;
WNCU, Hillsborough, NC;
WSHA, Raleigh, NC;
WKNC, Raleigh, NC;
WSNC, Winston-Salem, NC;
KFJM, Grand Forks, ND;
KRNU, Lincoln, NE;
KIOS, Omaha, NE
WUNH, Durham, NH;
WNEC, Henniker, NH;
WKNH, Keene, NH;
WPCR, Plymouth, NH;
WTSR, Ewing, NJ;
KUNM, Alburquerque, NM;
KRUX, Las Cruces, NM;
KGLP, Gallup, NM;
KTEK, Soccorro, NM;
KUNV, Las Vegas, NV;
WBNY, Buffalo, NY;
WBCR, Brooklyn, NY;
WHCL, Clinton, NY;
WSJU, Jamaica, NY;
WFIT, NY, NY;
WKCR, NY, NY;
WSVA, NY, NY
WFNP, New Paltz, NY;
WAIH, Potsdam, NY;
WVKR, Poughkeepsie, NY;
WBZE, Red Hook, NY;
WUSB, Stony Brook, NY;
WAER, Syracuse, NY (Eric Cohen!);
WGMC, Rochester, NY;
WITR, Rochester, NY;
WVXU, Cincinnati, OH;
WCPN, Cleveland, OH;
WRUW, Cleveland, OH;
WCSB, Cleveland, OH;
WCBE, Columbus, OH;
KBUX, Columbus, OH;
WDPS, Dayton, OH;
WOUB, Athens, OH;
WBGU, Bowling Green, OH;
WXTS, Toledo, OH;
WXUT, Toledo, OH;
KRSC, Claremore, OK;
KBOO, Portland, OR;
KSMF, Ashland, OR;
KLCC, Eugene, OR;
KVGA, Eugene, OR;
KEOL, La Grande, OR;
KMHD, Greshem, OR;
WDCV, Carlisle, PA;
WUPJ, Johnstown, PA;
WARC, Meadville, PA;
WVIA, Pittston, PA;
WRCT, Pittsburgh, PA;
WRTI, Philadelphia, PA;
WUSR, Scranton, PA;
WRIU, Kingston, RI;
WUSC, Columbia, SC;
WUTK, Knoxville, TN;
WMOT, Murfressboro, TN;
KSAU, Nacogdoches, TX;
KUT, Austin, TX;
KWCR, Ogden, UT;
KZMU, Moab, UT;
KRCL, Salt Lake City, UT;
WTJU, Charlottesville, VA (David Eisenman!);
WHRV, Norfolk, VA (Jae Sinnett!);
WDCE, Richmond, VA;
WRIR, Richmond, VA;
WCVW, Richmond, VA;
WWPV, Burlington, VT (George Thomas!);
WVPR, Colchester, VT;
WJSC, Johnson, VT;
WJDR, Plainfield, VT
WNCS, Waitsfield, VT;
KEWU, Cheney, WA;
KBCS, Bellevue, WA;
KCWU, Ellensberg, WA;
KAOS, Olympia, WA;
KEXP, Seattle, WA;
KWCW, Walla Walla, WA;
WMSE, Milwaukee, WI;
WORT, Madison, WI;
WSUM, Madison, WI;
WWVU, Morgantown, WV;
WFMT, Alameda/Syndicated (Bob Parlocha!);
WRTU, San Juan, PUERTO RICO;
CHUO, Ottawa, CANADA;
CKCU, Ontario, CANADA;
CHRW, Ontario, CANADA;
RACR, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA
RJAZ, Queensland, AUSTRALIA
The Hip List!
Posted on: 08-19-2007These are the radio stations currently playing Flippin' Out. If you don't see your local broadcaster listed, call them up and tell them to get hip to Charmaine Clamor and jazzipino!KCRW, Los Angeles, CA (Tom Schnabel!);
KKJZ, Long Beach, CA (Bubba Jackson! Jai Rich! Nick Tyler! Paul James! Brad Williams!);
KSDS, San Diego, CA;
KUCI, Irvine, CA;
KCBX, San Luis Obisbo, CA;
KDVS, Davis, CA;
KFSR, Fresno, CA;
KSJS, Gilroy, CA;
KMUD, Redway, CA;
KKUP, Santa Clara, CA;
KCSM, San Mateo, CA (Chuy Varela! Chris Cortez!);
KAMP, Tuscon, AZ;
KUNM, Alburquerque, NM;
KRUX, Las Cruces, NM;
WEAA, Baltimore, MD;
WESM, Princess Anne, MD;
WPFW, Washington DC;
WDCV, Carlisle, PA;
WUPJ, Johnstown, PA;
WARC, Meadville, PA;
WVIA, Pittston, PA;
WRCT, Pittsburgh, PA;
WRTI, Philadelphia, PA;
WUSR, Scranton, PA;
WTJU, Charlottesville, VA (David Eisenman!);
WHRV, Norfolk, VA (Jae Sinnett!);
WDCE, Richmond, VA;
WRIR, Richmond, VA;
WRFL, Lexington, KY;
WFPK, Louisville, KY;
WCKS, Allendale, MI;
WCBN, Ann Arbor, MI;
WYCE, Grand Rapids, MI;
WNMC, Traverse City, MI;
WIDR, Kalamazoo, MI;
WRCJ, Detroit, MI;
WVMV, Farmington Hills, MI;
WXTS, Toledo, OH;
WBGU, Bowling Green, OH;
WVXU, Cincinnati, OH;
WRUW, Cleveland, OH;
WCBE, Columbus, OH;
WDPS, Dayton, OH;
WSIE, Glen Carbon, IL;
WGLT, Normal, IL;
WEFT, Champaign, IL;
WMSE, Milwaukee, WI;
KBEM, Minneapolis, MN;
KVSC, St. Cloud, MN;
WAER, Syracuse (Eric Cohen!);
WGBH, Boston, MA;
WMPG, Portland, ME;
WGMC, Rochester, NY;
WITR, Rochester, NY;
WVPR, Colchester, VT;
WWPV, Burlington, VT (George Thomas!);
WFMT, Alameda/Syndicated (Bob Parlocha!);
KCME, Colorado Springs, CO (Lenny Mazel!);
KRCC, Fort Collins, CO;
KUVO, Denver, CO;
KBUT, Crested Butte, CO;
KDUR, Durango, CO;
KAFM, Grand Junction, CO;
KSUT, Ignacio, CO;
KDNK, Carbondale, CO;
KVNF, Paonia, CO;
KUNV, Las Vegas, NV;
KALA, Davenport, IA;
KDIC, Grinnell, IA;
KKFI, Kansas City, MO;
KWUR, St. Louis, MO;
KANU, Lawrence, KA;
KRSC, Claremore, OK;
KMHD, Greshem, OR;
KSMF, Ashland, OR;
KLCC, Eugene, OR;
KEOL, La Grande, OR;
KBOO, Portland, OR;
KEWU, Cheney, WA;
KBCS, Bellevue, WA;
KWCR, Ogden, UT;
KABF, Little Rock, AK;
KHNS, Haines, AK;
KSAU, Nacogdoches, TX;
WUTK, Austin, TX;
WDNA, Miami, FL;
WCLK, Atlanta, GA;
WTEB, Greenville, NC;
WNCU, Hillsborough, NC;
WSHA, Raleigh, NC;
WKNC, Raleigh, NC;
WXYC, Chapel-Hill, NC;
WSNC, Winston-Salem, NC;
WMOT, Murfressboro, TN;
WUTK, Knoxville, TN;
WJAB, Huntsville, AL;
WMNF, Tampa, FL;
KRVS, Lafayette, LA;
WKZE, Red Hook, NY;
WBCR, Brooklyn, NY;
WFIT, NYC;
WVKR, Poughkeepsie, NY;
WCNI, New London, CT;
WHUS, Storrs, CT;
WWUH, West Hartford, CT;
WPKN, Bridgeport, CT;
WMUA, Amherst, MA;
WMBR, Cambridge, MA;
WMFO, Medford, MA;
WMHB, Waterville, ME;
WUNH, Durham, NH;
WRTU, San Juan, PUERTO RICO;
CKCU, Ontario, CANADA;
CHRW, Ontario, CANADA;
RACR, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA
Flippin' Out Makes the World Charts!
Posted on: 08-15-2007I feel extremely blessed. Thank you all for your support! -CC ******************************************************************************* First for Filipino MusicJazz Singer Charmaine Clamor Makes the World Music Charts
The latest JazzWeek World Radio charts contain a historic first: A Filipino singer has one of the most played records in America.
Filipino-American Charmaine Clamor, the creator of jazzipino, a musical form that combines American jazz and blues with the melodies, languages and instruments of traditional Filipino music, has earned this exclusive honor. Her new album, Flippin' Out, which contains beloved kundiman and harana presented with contemporary soul and swing, debuted at #27 on the national charts. According to JazzWeek, her Flippin' Out (FreeHam Records) CD was the #3 most popular new record of the week. Clamor's appearance on the World Music Chart puts her in the same company as international artists like Bob Marley, Arturo Sandoval, and Bebel Gilberto.
"As a recording artist, I've had a lifelong dream of bringing the music of my people to the whole wide world," Clamor said. "The response from American radio programmers has been overwhelming. I'm thrilled that the richness of our beautiful Filipino musical culture is being enjoyed all over the United States."
Flippin' Out's heavy airplay across America and in Australia and Canada, has introduced mainstream listeners to Filipino standards like "Dahil Sa'yo," "Minamahal Kita," and "Sa Ugoy Ng Duyan." And they are coming out in droves to hear Charmaine Clamor sing live. To celebrate the release of Flippin' Out, her next West Coast appearance will be August 31 and September 1 at Catalina Bar & Grill Jazz Club, followed by dates on the East Coast in New York, New Jersey, and Boston.
Catalina Bar & Grill Jazz Club is located at 6725 Sunset Blvd, in Hollywood. Reservations for Ms. Clamor's exclusive appearance on August 31 and September 1 can be made by phone: 323/466-2210, or online at www.CatalinaJazzClub.com
"My Funny Brown Pinay" -- an inspiration
Posted on: 08-08-2007Here is a wonderful letter from a poet/DJ from 98.1FM WKZEHi Charmaine,
My name is Jerrice Baptiste. I have radio show called Women of Note 0n 98.1FM WKZE in Red Hook, NY. I have been listening to your album Flippin' Out. I love jazz and play many female jazz artists on my show. I also play music from female artists all over the world.
I do love your song My Funny Brown Pinay. I was really moved by the story that inspired you to write the lyrics for that song. I am very devoted to the empowerement of women every where. I've also experienced the same issue with the women from my own country Haiti.
So I will open my show tomorrow morning with your song. I am also a Poet so I always end my show by reading a different poem every saturday. I must say that your song has prompted me to read tomorrow morning, a poem that I wrote last year titled How Beautiful of A Creation.
If you would like to listen to my show tomorrow you can visit online www.WKZE.com and click on the listen Live link. I have listeners from all over the world. Thanks for appreciating the beauty of Filippinas and women all over the world. Keep up the good work.
Blessings,
Jerrice Baptiste
AuthenticPoetry.comWKZE.com
Thanks to Myrna Daniels of LA Jazz Scene
Posted on: 07-31-2007Big thanks to Ms. Myrna Daniels for such a wonderful piece she wrote about me in LA Jazz Scene. It's three pages long! Myrna really outdid herself this time. The writing is beautiful, and she captured so clearly my musical passions and goals.I truly appreciate Myrna's support of me, of other aspiring musical talents, and of the whole jazz community. It is such an honor to be on the cover of the best jazz paper in Los Angeles.
For my friends in Los Angeles: Grab a copy of the latest LA Jazz Scene! Aside from Myrna's wonderful profile, it contains so many other great stories, reviews, and all the jazz happenings in L.A.
3rd Annual Filipino-American Jazzfest Wants You!
Posted on: 07-27-2007I'm proud to be involved with JazzPhil-USA, a nonprofit orgranization that promotes Filipino and Filipino-American jazz artists to both the Filipino community and the mainstream. JazzPhil-USA' s signature event, the annual Fil-Am Jazzfest, will happen in Hollywood, California, at the Catalina Bar & Grill Jazz Club, on December 7, 8, and 9. In addition to awesome concerts featuring top Filipino musicians, we'll also have a screening of the historic documentary, "Pinoy Jazz."JazzPhil-USA wants you! The organization needs volunteers, members, sponsors, artists -- anyone who wants to get involved with Filipino Jazz in an intimate, behind-the-scenes way. Information on all the opportunities can be found at the JazzPhil-USA Website: http://www. JazzPhil-USA.com.
I hope you'll join us!
"Minamahal Kita" Made History
Posted on: 07-07-2007Dearest Kababayan,
I am very proud to announce that our beloved Kundiman from my upcoming album, Flippin' Out, "Minamahal Kita" (which means "I am loving you"), was played on air at KCRW 89.9FM, a major Los Angeles radio station on June 24th at 2:40 PM. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time our classic ballad and our language was played on a major U.S. airwave! I was very touched when I found out, as this was one of the main reasons I pursued singing -- to have our language and our beloved songs enjoyed by the whole world!
As an immigrant in this country for now 19 years, I never stopped yearning for home. Hearing our music on the radio gave me a little piece of it and made me wanted to connect with all of you, my beloved brothers and sisters.
Mabuhay ang Pilipino!