Very nice. Indie artist and activist JaVonne Armstrong has created a new vlog series entitled "In the Basement with JaVonne." The first episode features R20 friend Rev. Kevin E. Taylor, the New Jersey-based pastor, gay activist, author and producer. Taylor discusses his relationship with the church, longtime career with BET and friendships with Natalie Cole and Patti Labelle.
Taylor also discusses his childhood and growing up gay. "Other kids also found out that I was smart and there were trying to determine how they could use this to your advantage," adds Rev Kev. "Because being in the 'hood, sometimes being 'smart' is more dangerous than being gay."
Kevin E. Taylor is one of the contributors to the critically-acclaimed new anthology For Colored Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Still Not Enough. Talor discusses this topic at length in his essay "pop Quiz."
It's a great interview. Watch it AFTER THE JUMP ...
JaVonne and her partner Cheryl wrote and performed a beautiful track dedicated to love and marriage equality. Here is "Waiting All My Life."
Love the interview. I am a big fan of Rev Kev!
Posted by: Ramon | 28 November 2012 at 17:53
Wow! I love Elder Rev. Taylor and am inspired now more than ever to pursue my dreams.
Posted by: Strongforu | 28 November 2012 at 19:29
Amazing interview... Kevin E. Taylor is an amazing man! Thanks for sharing his stories on success, calling and connection.
Posted by: Ameer S. | 29 November 2012 at 02:25
Rod, thanks so much for posting this. It was a great honor to help this sister launch her new endeavor! When I told her it was up, she flipped out. I love the ways that you support so many in our communities as they do their thing, King!
ALL LOVE! I appreciate you, Rod2.0!
Posted by: TheRevKev | 30 November 2012 at 17:23
I don't have the words to express my gratitude to Kevin E. Taylor for sitting and sharing his journey with me. He is an amazing man and I hope everyone watches and takes what they need from his experiences...all uplifting and all full of hope and passion. Thank you to the highest degree of appreciation Rod for sharing this vlog (and the marriage equality music video). Kevin E. Taylor also has a cameo in it as well :-) God Bless!
JaVonne
Posted by: IamJaVonne | 02 December 2012 at 09:43