Here’s a little family tidbit! “Is it him?” was what my grandson wanted to know? You know, sometimes you find yourself in a situation you cannot believe is happening. Such is this tiny experience.
HEY DAD: IS IT HIM?
During the 1970s and 80s, Shirley Washington Then was “blazing her trail” on the Hollywood Scene as an actress. Young, energetic and feisty, she was making sure no one left her behind! Shirley appeared in several movies and TV shows. Among them: Mission Impossible as a stewardess; Maggie in Wonder Woman; Travel agent in The Puppet; Theda in Darktown Strutters and Mrs. Jefferson in Bamboo Gods. She also starred in a film called Disco. Did Shirley Washington Then have other talents?
Shirley the Dancer
This writer knew Shirley Washington Then…but had no idea what hidden talents she had. Here’s an example of one:
Wow! Now that Shirley has revealed her talent as a dancer, let’s explore her history and discover other talents. In the following video, her talk show ability is questioned and challenged.
Darktown Strutters
According to Wikipedia, Darktown Stutters was a musical comedy about four (4) female gang bikers named Syreeno, Carmen, Miranda and Theba (Shirley). A synopsis of the storyline reveals numerous episodes that challenge one’s ability to determine the movie’s plot. The sequence of events as described by Wikipedia, did not allow this writer to follow the story. The focus of the movie simply eluded me. I have no idea what the writer was trying to achieve, nor the message he was seeking to deliver. Therefore, you are directed to Wikipedia for your own personal “read.”
However, from Shirley’s perspective, let’s recognize that launching an artistic career is not easy, and can lead to accepting roles that successful actresses may not choose. Ms. Washington was not born with a “silver spoon in her mouth,” and receives high marks for her courage, determination, tenacity and ingenuity for getting the roles she received. Hooray Shirley!
Shirley Washington Now. . .
What is Ms. Washington doing these days? She spends much of her time traveling between her apartment in Los Angeles and home in Las Vegas to musical events. Hearsay says . . . she is still very much involved in the music industry–setting up and negotiating contracts for clients’ musicals, plays, book deals and musical events. That is . . . when she is not “flying and cruising” from one country/continent to another with longtime friend and Motown Songwriter Eddie Holland. Hometown Detroit also welcomes her for special Motown events.
Recently, Shirley attended an event in L.A. that honored friend Smokey Robinson and Motown Mogul Berry Gordy. Some of the attendees are shown in the photo below:
Whether you are looking at “Shirley Washington Then” or “Shirley Washington Now,” the picture will be crystal clear, progressive, busy and spectacular! And . . . you will not need a magnifying glass!
Hello All,
Duane participated in a “jam session” at a club last night, and Stephen Jr. was there as a guest. When he heard Duane’s name, he called his dad and asked him if Duane was his grandmother’s friend. His dad say, yes, and told him to “go over and meet him.” He had never met Duane and made himself known as my grandson.
Once the introductions were over, they took the above picture.
Stephen looks like a hip hop or rock star. I had not seen his new look.
A jam session is where many musicians mix with the club band and play. They showcase most of them as soloist for a few minutes. Duane loves to “mix it up” with musicians from all over! Sometimes, he gets jobs from that!
Stephen was excited to meet him!
IT’S THE SMALL THINGS . . .
Many of you may be wondering why such a small incident was posted to the site. Well . . . it’s the small things that make a family who it is . . . unique things and funny things. Fifty years from now, my great-grands may read this and smile. When settling the mind and letting go of the busy thoughts that keep us hopping, I reflect on the things that transformed my life. Some came from a parent, a friend, teacher or even a stranger who smiled at me on the streets. Each one was an “aha moment!” It was part of life’s little nuances that shaped my DNA.
FORCE A GRIN
One glance at Little Dakota generates a smile. You imagine what she’s thinking as she lies there. What would she say if she could speak? Her demeanor suggests happiness and contentment. It moves the discontent from my thought and gives a sense that “Whatever is going on, it’s gonna’ be just fine.” Ok, I’m done!
“That is awesome, Auntie!!!”
This came from Gail. She takes time to respond.
Cheryl says:
Thanks for sending the picture, mom! We haven’t seen Steve Jr in ages! Really enjoyed the picture.
Brother Robert placed a phone call to say he was glad to get my email. Hey! You can respond the next time!
