MORE SIGHTS OF PRIDE TORONTO 2012

Pride Toronto 2012

Some more Sights of Pride Toronto 2012 as the Floats emerged onto the Parade Route in Rosedale Valley.  Billy even got to sit on the Wizard of Oz Float with Dorothy. What a Delight!

I must say that I never get sick of TD Bank's high-energy Floats with their Drag Queens and Muscular Dudes in Briefs...

Enjoy.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)

COREY HART AT PRIDE TORONTO 2012

Corey Hart in Toronto - June 2012

Childhood Dream come true!  Growing-up in the Outskirts of Toronto in the '80s were defined by a few things: Madonna, Wham!, Friendship Bracelets & Beads, Michael Jackson, CHUM-FM's Top 30 Countdown, CBC's Video Hits, CityTV's Toronto Rocks, ET, Three's Company, Family Ties and ...Corey Hart.  I idolized Hart as a Kid and begged for my Mom to buy me his 45s at Sam the Record Man because I couldn't afford full Albums.  I think I even owned a red-coloured 45 of his take on Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Yes, I loved him that much.

I was ecstatic to hear that after a long absence from the Music Scene, Hart - known best internationally for his major Hits Never Surrender and Sunglasses at Night -  would be resurfacing as one of the Headlining Musical Acts at Pride Toronto 2012.  Although an hour late, the Montreal-born Singer/Songwriter played a brief Set which included Rock Covers and some of his biggest Hits at the crowded Bud Light Stage situated at Carlton x Church.

He tells the Audience, "I'm a Straight Man, but I want you to know that I'm an Ally", drawing cheers from the Crowd.  "I am normally used to seeing Women at my Shows, but for the first time ever I'm performing for over 70% Men", he observes staring into a sea of shirtless Men. "I think I need to work-out more!".

Starting first with Sunglasses at Night, the youthful 50-year-old delivered a string of Ballads where he sounded his best after a bit of a shaky start and he was pleased to hear the Audience singing along with most of his more recognizable Tunes. 

Hart has teamed-up with Canadian DJ/Producer 1Love to re-release his Track Truth Will Set U Free as a Remix. The Track is about three Individuals in his Life whom were struggling with their Sexuality and the Track couldn't be any more relevant today.

Following his Performance, a Crowd of Fans were waiting eagerly for a rare chance to meet Hart and he was more than gracious spending about 10 minutes taking Photos and signing Autographs.  Noticing me wearing my Sunglasses at night, he asked me twice, "Did you get your Photo?  I wanted to make sure".  Aww!

Check-out Hart's Performance of Sunglasses at Night below:

SIGHTS OF PRIDE TORONTO 2012

Pride Toronto 2012

With over 1.2 million People expected to be in attendance this year, Pride Toronto Festivities are now in high gear, coinciding with Canada Day. Although my Schedule has been ridiculous the past week, how could I resist celebrating one of my favourite Weekends in the year on my one day off?

The Annual Pride Parade kicks-off Sunday at 2:00 PM beginning at Bloor x Church, ending at Gerrard x Church. With the Weather expected to be sunny and hot tomorrow, remember to bring lots of Sunscreen and Hydration.  Click here for more on the Parade.

Tonight at the Bud Light South Stage at Carlton x Church, I had the pleasure of meeting and seeing one of my Childhood Idols Corey Hart live (details on a separate Post!) and also it was a treat seeing in-person Drag Queen Shangela Laquifa Wadley from RuPaul's Drag Race! Although this year's edition of Pride is lighter on the Live Musical Acts, there still are some awesome local DJs spinning tomorrow at various stages!

Happy Pridenadian Sunday.  To us, our Country,  all our flaws, attributes, likes, dislikes and loves!

(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)

HAPPY PRIDE, MAVENATI!

Billy & Mr. Will-W.

Be proud.

xW&b

CESAR MILLAN IN TORONTO FOR CANADIAN TIRE MEET & GREET

Cesar Millan & Mr. Will-W. - February 2011

Whaddup Bitches?  Canadian Tire will be hosting a Meet & Greet with The Dog Whisperer himself, Cesar Millan this Friday, June 17, 2011 at their 1025 Lakeshore Ave. E location between 11:00 to 1:00 PM.  Millan, who I ran into this past February - to finalize negotiations for this new venture -  is in-town again to promote his new Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan Pet Accessories line for the Hardware Giant.

Just a note, Canadian Tire stores normally have a No Dogs Allowed policy although I'm hearing this location does allow Dogs.  As a note, he also will be signing Autographs in addition to taking Photos with Fans.  Fix your hair; iron your shirts.

Click here to read more.

ACE OF BASE HEADLINING QUEER BEER FESTIVAL IN TORONTO

Ace of Base

The Festival of Beer already in its 17th year, is trying something new this year in launching the first-ever Queer Beer Festival, taking place on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at the Canadian National Exhibition, Bandshell Park. And guess who’s headlining? ACE OF BASE!!!

Having sold in excess of 30 million records worldwide, the Swedish Super-group will be making a rare appearance in the City, fronted by sexy new Vocalists Clara and Julia.  And yes, the Group responsible for smashes like All that She Wants and Beautiful Life are responsible for influencing the sounds of many a Pop Princess of today -  Lady Gaga and Katy Perry included.  They will be among several local Queer Acts and DJs appearing at the Festival.

The Queer Beer Festival is a celebration of the love for Beer in all its varieties among the Queer and Trans communities. There will be over 100 Food and Beer Vendors on-site serving deliciousness like Poutine to authentic BBQ; there also will be several Vegetarian options too.

"SEX & THE CITY" STAR JASON LEWIS IN TORONTO FOR "TEXTUALITY"

Jason Lewis & Mr. Will-W.

Sex & the City's Jason Lewis arrived in Toronto Sunday to promote his latest Film by Canadian Director Warren P. Sonoda. Filmed in Toronto, Textuality is a Romantic Comedy which has a Man and a Woman trying to enter a relationship, while at the same time struggling to rid themselves of their prior relationships maintained through their Blackberries.

The Film stars Lewis along with Vancouver's v. own Carly Pope and another Canadian talent, Eric McCormack of Will & Grace.  With two full days of Press lined-up including stop-offs at CityTV's Breakfast Television, CHUM-FM's Mornings with Roger, Marilyn & Darren, CTV's The Marilyn Denis Show and Entertainment Tonight Canada, a Red Carpet Premiere is slated for tonight (Tuesday) at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

AUTHOR EMILY GIFFIN TORONTO'S INDIGO APPEARANCE

New York Times Best Selling Author Emily Giffin made an appearance at Manulife Centre's Indigo Bookstore after a very sudden postponement due to illness last month.  Giffin is in-town right now to promote latest novel Heart of the Matter, which steers away from the brand of Chick Lit she has found so much success with, in novels like Something Blue and Something Borrowed.  The latter, which is now being made into a film, is currently wrapping-up production in New York City; it is set to open in theatres June 2011 via Warner Bros.  

The very self-aware and funny author took time out to introduce herself to a predominantly female audience this evening, explaining that she began Writing after realizing that the structure of her former career of five years as a Lawyer didn't suit her.  Her Agent tried shopping her first Novel and she received Rejection Letters from all, pushing her harder to get where she is today.  Giffin claims, "Even though I know it's trying to say 'never give up on your dreams', you will get there if you keep putting effort into it", sharing that there are many talented Writers who don't necessarily find success based on their ability alone.

EPIC WEEKEND'S SPLASH BASH AT DUNDAS SQUARE FEATURING FREEMASONS, SOFONDA COX AND GIRLICIOUS

Epic Weekend's Splash Bash was a viable alternative for those looking to celebrate Pride Weekend in Toronto. Ambitiously booking Dundas Square for the event proved to be a bit of a risk for party promoter Joseph Patrick, who had his work cut out for him in persuading party-goers to look outside the box of events "officially" affiliated with Pride Toronto.

Today's outdoor Water Party pulled-out the stops inviting UK DJs/Producers extraordinaire Freemasons who were making their debut appearance in these parts after conquering the world with remixes for the likes of Kelly Rowland, Kylie Minogue, Shakira, Beyoncé and many more. Also trio Girlicious were tapped to do a short performance, in addition to an always exciting performance from Toronto's most-consistently stellar Drag Queen: Sofonda Cox.

CYNDI LAUPER AT TORONTO PRIDE (PICS & VIDEO)

She's so unusual. Doing Media for Cyndi Lauper's Toronto Pride show at Queen's Park tonight was an experience in itself. At first we were told that Lauper didn't want to be photographed and that all Media were barred from the Photographer's Pit. Then we were told she was okay with Media. And after being sent off on our way disappointed, we were all ushered back in again and were given very strict rules to not photograph her with a Flash or we would be asked to leave. We were told to sit. Then we were told we could stand while she performed. We were told we could stay for three full songs and then after two songs we were all ushered out by her Manager.

Good God. I love Cyndi Lauper, but what's going on here? Needless to say, many of us who were invited to cover the event were left upset.  And this is not even including the fans who lined-up today at Indigo only to see Lauper late 30 minutes for her own Autograph Signing to which she refused to pose for photos with Fans.

With that being said, I will say that Lauper is a Legend. Although there were many complaints whispered among the many, many thousands of spectators tonight about her Bluesy material on latest Universal Music/Fontana North effort Memphis Blues, one cannot deny her sheer talent. While many female artists from the era Lauper first became a star have disappeared completely or no longer possess the same vocal range they did in their prime, she has still got it. Undisputedly. She is a Firecracker on stage and commands attention with her presence and unconventional choices of Hair Colour (Bright Red tonight) and Porcelain skin.

DJ ANA PAULA AT TORONTO AQUA PRIDE

Okay, well even though Brazil hasn't fared so well in the World Cup this time around, Pride Toronto got one of its finest DJ exports DJ Ana Paula (pictured above, left) today at annual Water Party, Aqua.  The party was held this year across from Wellesley Station in the heart of the Village, an area traditionally designated as the TD Wellesley Stage for musical performances and DJs only.  

DRAGONETTE PERFORMS AT TORONTO PRIDE 2010 (PICS & VIDEO) | AUTOGRAPH GIVEAWAY

Canada's most under-rated band Dragonette took to the stage at Queen's Park as part of Toronto's Pride festivities, the first time ever the venue has hosted celebrations.  As usual, the band delivered a solid performance, mixing material from their debut Galore and follow-up Fixin' To Thrill.  The band performed unreleased tracks Our Summer of Sex and Get Your Titties Off My Things, showcasing their brazen wit.  All eyes feasted on lead singer Martina Sorbara's quirky outfit - a white bodysuit, covered by a black mesh-cape and of course the Big Sunglasses she loves so much that she wrote a song about.

The crowd, many who were waiting for the evening's headliner Cyndi Lauper to follow, were enthusiastic about the set from the Trio (formerly a Quartet).  And on the track Fire, Sorbara had forgotten some lyrics, mumbling along and giggling, then asking the crowd, "Is this thing even on?!?" before mumbling her way back into the song.  Smooth.  *wink*  She also revealed that Dragonette will be releasing another disc soon, Our Summer Volcano (EP) and that the new tracks performed today will be featured on it.  As their set approached a wrap, Lauper came over to enjoy the track with her Entourage.  Sorbara mentioned what a wonderful honour it was to share the stage with the icon herself.

MY CYNDI LAUPER SPOTTING IN TORONTO

Walking home along Bay Street with a couple friends, I ran into Cyndi Lauper heading back to her Hotel. She had just completed a Soundcheck for her show tomorrow night at Queen's Park as part of this year's Toronto Pride Festival.  Strolling along with her guitarist, Lauper was barely recognizable in a black Fedora and tight cleavage-revealing dress, but it was her bright orange hair that gave her away.  And that New Yorker accent - unmistakable.  Always prepared, I had my CD ready for her to sign and she was just wonderful signing for me and my friends.

She did clarify that she was told she could not take photos tonight, so I will try again tomorrow as I'll be doing Media at her show where she'll be dolled-up.  Trying to remain low-key,  I told her and her Guitarist I'd see them tomorrow night and we wished each other a good night.  This is a dream come true - I've idolized Lauper since childhood!  Check out the autograph she personalized for me below.  Amazing!

Check back again tomorrow night for photos and some video from her concert.  If you're in the Toronto area, come down to Queen's Park before 9:30.  It's completely free!

VIRGIN AMERICA TORONTO LAUNCH PARTY AT THE THOMPSON (PICS AND GOSSIP)

I would die to have a Boss like Sir Richard Branson.  The man is an absolute Rock Star with a clear understanding of what makes this Ikea-buying generation tick.  He understands the power of Celebrity and the importance of Budgeting and Style as driving forces for consumers. His vision has made Virgin Group the Empire that it is today.

To have been invited to one of his parties is an amazing honour and an experience I will never forget.  Held at ultra-swank The Thompson Hotel, Virgin America's Launch Party for its first-ever international flight to Toronto, brought together Influencers of all sorts and a handful of recognizable Stars.  

With a Drink List that offered tantalizing selections like The Virgintini and endless helpings of Sliders, Cold Spring Rolls, Lamb Chops, Salmon Tartare Canapés and many, many more, Branson owns the term Hospitality.  After mingling a bit, I decided to proceed to the Lower Level, where he could be found sitting on a Bench with Guru-like presence, as guests lined up one-by-one to chat with him and have photographs taken.  I got my moment finally after letting a few over-zealous Ladies in ahead of me and was very direct and to-the-point, thanking him for having me at his Party. I then shook his hand and told him how much I admired his understanding of my generation and vision.  And he appreciated my conciseness  amidst the scurry of young Entrepreneurs trying to throw Business Proposals at him from every which direction.  As if.

THE BEST CRÊPES IN TORONTO

It's no mystery that the city's best Crêpes can be found in Yorkville at Crêpes à GoGo (18 Yorkville Ave.).  The charming little Café is modeled exactly after the variety you'd find in Paris and the actual owners are Parisian, insisting on hiring French-speaking staff for full effect.  Peering at the walls of the restaurant, we see old Press Clippings of owner Véronique Perez's proud filmmaking accomplishments from her days in France and as always, she is charming and delightful if you are lucky enough to see her during the week.

Crêpes à GoGo's signature item is the Big Ben, a sweet Crêpe which comes with your choice of Mozzarella or Brie and Raspberry Jam at $7.00 CAN.  My favourite on the menu is the Rive Droite (pictured) with Scrambled Eggs, Spinach, Sour Cream and Smoked Salmon at $10.00 CAN perfect if you are a late riser like me on weekends.  The Niçoise is also delightful with Tuna, Mozzarella, Black Olives, Za'atar (a Middle Eastern herb), Basil and Olive Oil.  This is also one of the few places in the city you can get yourself a Petit Crème, which is essentially an Espresso Shot topped with sweet Whipped Cream.  Decadence.  Check out their full menu here, although I will note that their website is still under construction. 

KELIS TO PLAY PRIDE TORONTO

It's official.  Kelis will be appearing at  Pride Toronto 2010 which runs til Sunday, July 4th.  She will also be doing some promotion for her perfectly-timed new album Flesh Tone, just reviewed here last week.  She sure knows her market, as does Cyndi Lauper who is also headlining this year's festivities. How exciting!  (Thanks Daniel).  Kelis will no longer be playing Pride this year due to promotional obligations in Europe.  Word of mouth has it that she never even confirmed to play the festival to begin with despite her name being splashed all over advertisements.  Something is v. suspicious.

CYNDI LAUPER TO HEADLINE TORONTO GAY PRIDE WEEK FESTIVITIES

If this doesn't just scream GAY, I don't know what does.  Toronto's world-famous Gay Pride Week festivities will be headlined by a free Cyndi Lauper concert at cruisy Queen's Park on Saturday, July 3, 2010.  Lauper, who has been doing much philanthropic work for the LGBT community over the past few years including her 2007 True Colours Tour, is now giving back to her fans in a big way.  In fact, she seems to be catering almost exclusively to the LGBT community now.

This is all hot on the heels of her newly-launched MAC Cosmetics VIVA GLAM Campaign alongside Lady Gaga. Together, they have broken sales records with their lipsticks according to John Demsey President of The Estée Lauder Group.  The campaign serves to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in women. 

Toronto's Pride festivities bring in over one million people each year to the city and millions of dollars in local revenue.  It was recently selected as the official destination of 2014's World Pride.  I had the pleasure of performing at Pride back in 2008 and it was an opportunity I will never forget.  Should be an amazing show and I cannot wait to see it.