After much success and disappointment from hosting live talk shows in his hometown Tampa, FL, this seeker relocated to Los Angeles, CA on September 19, 2010 to begin an epic journey that does not consist of a plan B. Virtually unknown in the entertainment industry, this brave man is in pursuit of one goal & purpose; to become a nationally syndicated late night talk show host. This is the quest of Motown Maurice. Remember his name, for he is The Future of Late Night Television.
I don't know if you have been able to keep up with me lately but I've made several posts this week.
I think its a good for a change, plus I realized that I have a lot of questing inventory to put out on the shelf. In addition to that, I've been upgrading the lay out of my blog. Have you noticed the new organizational scheme of my blog on the right had side? I now have different category labels that link to the best highlights of the blog. There are also some web links listing resources for actors/hosts. Not to mention, links with information about attending your favorite live shows for free.
As I've said before, this blog isn't just about my story but its also to help you specifically when you decide to relocate to the "State where you'll never find the dance floor empty." On that note, I hope you take advantage.
I estimate that I will be blogging almost everyday for the next week or two. I really have a lot to share. Plus most of the upcoming posts will probably include blog secrets, new videos or deep words of wisdom.
Take advantage man. Take advantage.
Furthermore, I'm feeling good and I'm completely removed from the down hill slope that slowly fell upon me on week 17 & week 18. Now I'm ready to embrace my new challenges my quest has to offer.
This is simply a review and a little shorter then my recent reviews. Enjoy and visit the links to my most recent posts.
* I attended a live taping of Jimmy Kimmel Live. I started paying more attention to Jimmy Kimmel when I moved to LA. I really like his style. I think his style mirrors closely to my inner late night personality more then the others. Its now a close race between Jimmy Kimmel and Conan O'brien for my current personal favorite late night talk show host.
* After Vampire Masquerade rehearsal, the director treated the whole cast to some ice cream.
Motown Maurice and my Vampire Masquerade cast.
Motown Maurice: This is how vampires eat ice cream. Yum, Yum.
Day 130 = Thursday, January 27, 2011
* I had an audition for a baseball related commercial. They wanted Black guys with big hair. I think an Afro probably works best for this shoot. Everyone else had an Afro. I also had to bring a baseball bat with me. So I went to a sporting goods store, purchased a bat and later returned it. It was a pretty silly audition. I didn't enjoy it.
* My improv class on Thursdays with Monkey Butler ended today but there are still other days to consider.
* Notification for an audition on Tuesday at Warner Brothers Studio came in today from my agent. This is my second audition at Warner Brothers Studio this month. My agent told me she knows of people who have tried to get into those gates for years but can't. She really feels excited for me and knows something big is going to happen. She's not sure if its this particular audition but she has a good feeling something great is going to happen. I feel it too. Thanks Sandy.
I'm also happy that I've finally been notified about a worth wild audition in advance. I can actually prepare in advance. This audition is such a great opportunity that I've asked my agent if she know anybody that can help coach me for this audition. I'm happy to say my agents daughter who has experience with auditions is going to help me on Monday. What a blessing. I feel good, its time to be great.
* For the first time in a while I stayed home all day. Mostly because I was working on my new reel.
* On the way to the a free accounting workshop for actors, an older gentlemen in a suit spoke to me and invited me to to some type of business meeting tomorrow. I figured it was one of those meetings to get me to join something. Our conversation was brief but he said over and over that he was so impressed with me. I told him I'll attend but I'm very focused and there is nothing that can derail me.
* A few of my guilty pleasures on weekends when I'm not doing anything important includes Denny's/Ihop and watching a few movies at the theater. Since there isn't anything great out right now I made it a Red Box weekend. My list of movies for today was The Town and Takers. I've seen Takers before but this time I was able to completely identify with all the scenes, locations and landmarks. Now that I've lived here long enough I realized that probably every movie that exist was probably shot in LA. lol
Final Thoughts
I've been submitting for a lot of work on the website LA Casting but I'm really not getting any responses. I'm not sure why but I'm glad my agent is really pulling through. I'm going to focus on making my profiles stronger and of course perfecting these great auditions that are coming my way.
As I said get ready for a lot of new post. I have a lot to express and provide closure on plenty. I don't know if these actions are symbolic for anything but in the past doing things like that represents preparation for something new. What ever the case is, all I can do is prepare to meet the opportunity. Whatever it may be.
As the quest continues... The Future of Late Night
Yesterday, I clearly defined part 1 of my goals for 2011. That doesn't mean I'm gong to sit back and wait for it to materialize. I have to back up my goals with immediate action and initiative. I can't rely on luck or chance. As a result, in my first step toward achieving my goals, I made a new hosting reel.
I've been using it for about 8 months now and since I moved to LA I debated on creating a better version but I never invested the time in doing so. I did produce few comedy reels but I needed a more define hosting reel. I don't think using that reel that states I wants my own talk show isn't helping me for the type of work I've been submitting for.
Well, I spent most of the day yesterday creating it. I'm also my worse critique but I'm confident about it for now. Both my agents like it but one suggested I removed the karate intro part. I see her point but I'm all about trying something different at times. I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet with the intro. Let me know what you think of it.
I've been thinking. My New Years 2011 prophecy isn't specific enough. Visionary's, seekers, overachieves or whoever have to be specific about exactly what then want out life. I was way to broad in the previous post and at this point of my quest I can't afford not particular about my goals/desires.
So far the year isn't panning out the way I envisioned, therefore its never too late to write out in detail exactly what I want to achieve.
There have been a pattern within the types of opportunities I've been submitting for and even the ones I've been considered for. Combining some of those particulars and my aspirations to become a late night talk show host I know exactly what I need to achieve in 2011. Now for the first time, here are some of specific goals for 2011.
Hosting: I need to book my first paid hosting gig (an acting gig will also suffice). The more experience hosting the better for me. I want to either host a television or internet show. Television is preferred but I'm very open to either opportunity.
Traveling: I've been submitting for a lot of opportunities that involved traveling and now I have a desire to travel around the world. Traveling and hosting is ideal. I want to meet and interview people all over the world.
Compete: My desire for competition has been fueling for a long time now. I'm tired of competing against myself and I'm looking for a showdown. It doesn't matter who, how many or what. Bring it on. I feel indomitable. A reality show competition would be nice but it really doesn't matter the format. I need to compete.
Comedy: Lastly, I want to expand my comical horizons. I have more in me but I'm lacking the direct challenge. I want to produce some of my best work in comedy this year. Better yet in the style of physical comedy.
In conclusion...
Is all that too much to ask for? I want to host, travel. compete and perform at my comical best in 2011. I've paid my dues. I've been through the storm and a matter of fact I'm still going through it. Moreover, I sincerely need this to advance on my quest.
As a matter of fact, I need at least 50% of these goals to reach fulfillment by the end of this quarter. Meaning by the end of March. I know we are not suppose to put a time limit on our goals but time is of the essence. My roommate informed me two weeks ago that she is considering moving at the end of March. Personally I want to become a legitimate roommate by then, have my own place or even better be traveling across the world on a comical, hosting, adventure.
This post is my vision board. These are my goals. They represent my needs and burning desires for 2011. This is just one post of many that will present my goals for 2011.
After visiting the Dr. Phil show last week, he mentioned something that helped me understand the importance of this blog. One of his guest was a young lady on that was treated badly by a young man. She claimed that she didn't want to be with him anymore yet she's still talking about him and she won't cut him out of her life. After minutes of rambling from Dr. Phil, he explained her exact problem. What she really wanted was emotional closure. She wanted him to apologize and show some sympathy.
Since he wasn't going to do that, Dr. Phil recommended that she find closure by writing in a journal or mentoring other young ladies. His suggestion/advice was basically providing an external outlet so she could finally remove him from her life.
Upon listening to his advice, I realized that I may be benefiting from my blog the same way. If you are affected by something/somebody emotionally or energetically, its natural for you to want understanding and closure. In a situation were closure isn't available, its important to seek closure else where. I'm sure this same theory is what brought forth many of this worlds most inspiring activist, motivational speakers and authors.
Without realizing it, my blog allows me close the doors on many auditions and submissions I never heard back. I've loved this blog passionately since the beginning but now I love it even more. Thank you blog and thank you again to my homeboy Rodney Gibbs for recommending I create one. This blog will end up becoming one of my greatest accomplishments.
Thinking more in depth, some of the songs and poems I wrote post-high school; after a breakup provided much of the closure that helped me move forward. In my last post THE BIG ONE REVEALED, I mentioned some disappointing news. They did not explain why my team didn't advance but nevertheless, it was important for me to create my own closure with my blog. Plus it felt good writing about it. It was as if a new flow a energy starting pouring through my body as I was writing.
That's one of mystical beauty's of this world we live in. There is an abundance of everything. In this case, there is an abundance energy everywhere. Thus, its our own responsibility to find specific ways on developing unique methods for ourselves to generate new energy.
Another strategy I've used especially since the start of this year, was to specifically listening to music created with the spirit of winning. Music helps keep your energy high. A few songs on my current song list are:
Lose Yourself - Eminem, All I Do Is Win - DJ Khaled, Kanye West, Stronger - Eye of The Tiger - Survivor, Juicy -Biggie Smalls and many others.
Those songs really helped especially when I was working out. Take my advice. Physically working out and listening to winning/championship music is an awesome combination. Your body and mind will be programed to overcome anything in its path.
As for Why...
I'm not a physic but I am confident about my premonition abilities. I can't immediately tell you why my team wasn't casted for Expedition Impossible but I can provide a rough estimated prediction. On Week 16 day 109, I was officially able to prove my prediction to why I wasn't casted for Oprah's Your Own Show Contest. Now I can proudly say that not being apart of that contest ended up being one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Based on the positive energy I was receiving from the universe during the month of December 2010/ early January, I do strongly believe things were looking good for my team at one point. For a period of time we probably were 90% confirmed. Then for some reason the producers shifted in another direction. Possibly a better team came in towards the end or my type wasn't ordinary enough. The truth is, it really doesn't matter what the reason is.
Why it doesn't matter? That answer is simple. There is something better out there for me. I was really looking forward to being out of the country, traveling and competing during the month of April. The universe knew that. I exuded a lot of energy towards Expedition Impossible and that energy still exists. As a result, the opportunity to travel and compete will arrive, but when it arrives it will be in a format best suited for me. I'm not just writing this because I'm trying to keep positive. I'm writing this because that's how it works. What I'm writing explains the basic foundations of the universe's operation system.
I've been there done that. Watch and see. In the matter of time, I'm going to be writing a post that will link you back to this page. The next time you read this you will probably get goose bumps and your whole body will become engrossed with an eerie feeling. Please note: I have no projects pending for me as I'm writing this. I'm flowing and submitting as I have been doing.
Whats Next?
Following my last post THE BIG ONE REVEALED I promised to explain to "Whats Next?" Truthfully, I don't know whats next. In the entertainment, you never know whats next in many situations. What I meant to say was "What happened Next."
Day = 119 Sunday, January 16, 2011
By the time Sunday came around I left like I was entering the week of judgment. The was actually the original title for this post. The unnatural uneasy feeling was dominant. I ended the year with such great vibrancy but that energy was leaving slowly. The results of the contest was the main thing on my mind and I hate waiting for a phone call. It reminds of the days when I use to sit by the phone waiting for a girls phone call. It completely presents lack of control and weakness.
Throughout these moments of despair, I used various methods to relax my nerves. Taking deep breaths through your nose and exhaling through your mouth slowly works like a charm. However, what really worked for me today is an invite from a friend to Santa Monica's Pier. While there I really started started to understand why some people like going to the beach. I laid on the sand, looked at the sky for about an hour or two and left all my troubles behind. I felt at one with the world as at looked at this lonely star in the sky.
Day 120 = Monday, January 17, 2011
As great as the beach was unfortunately, I couldn't take it with me. Did I mention I hate when my phone doesn't ring. Well my phone hasn't been ringing. Only phone calls from creditors. When I wasn't feeling uneasy, impatient, flustered or edgy I was either at my vampire masquerade rehearsal or my improv class. Improv class going great by the way.
* I failed to mention that last Monday I was stopped by the transit authority again for the 3rd time. When I got off the train I noticed them checking for tickets from a distance and I decided to make a u-turn. Somehow I was noticed by one of them and they asked me for a ticket as I tried to evade them by going down the escalator. I know... I'm stubborn. With little hesitation I said I forgot to get a ticket because I was so into the book that I was reading. I also told them I can get one right now. They both said, "ok." I was surprised that they didn't bother me anymore and just said "ok." Well enough is enough. I had enough strikes to get the picture by now. I finally got a Tap Card which allows me to ride the train/bus for $20 a week unlimited. I just found out how it works. I wish I knew about it before.
After I woke up from my hour nap I headed back to the theatre to watch a live play. On the way there my mind was joggling multiple thoughts. Most of my thoughts is what most people might call negative but I prefer to say I was being realistic. Realism isn't always the best approach but I was mainly trying to figure out how to break this cycle. The get so close but not close enough cycle is what I'm talking about.
By the time I started watching the play my mind began to break lose. I was brain storming so much that I began taking notes during the performance. I was devloping an idea by combining elements of the Dr. Phil show, improv class, my quest and the play I was watching. My idea was based on the opportunity my improv teacher presented to have new show ideas in his theatre.
Day = 122 Wednesday, January 19, 2011
By today I was 100% back to normal. My imagination was running wild. Anytime I had to wait for a train I would pace myself back and forth jotting down ideas. I'm sure people around me thought I was crazy.
* Vampire Rehearsal
* Received notification for an Old Navy internet commercial tomorrow.
Day = 123 Thursday, January 20, 2011
* The Old Navy audition was interesting. I had to talk about my butt with confidence. (No more comment) lol.
* Attended my 2nd Improv Class with Monkey Butler.
Day 124 = Friday, January 21, 2011
* I attended Vampire rehearsal and I presented my idea that I started brain storming since Tuesday. Its a semi scripted improv show I developed called "The Therapy Chamber." I think its a great idea. My improv teacher claims he read it and that he liked it but he really didn't look at me in the eye. I brought it back up twice but I felt like he rubbed it off. I know my senses by now but I'm not worried about it. I've been through the rat race before and I don't have time for it on this level anymore. Based on how he responded I'm not even going to bring it back up anymore. So far he hasn't brought it up either and I see him just about every weekday.
* Later that night, I also watched another cast perform the same play I will be performing in a couple weeks. I think my cast is much funnier.
Day 125 = Saturday, January 22, 2011
* Took the bus to El Monte for a cultural TV show host audition.
* I went to Ihop and spent rest of my day at the night movies. I watched The Green Hornet and No Strings Attached.
Final Thoughts
I had some final thoughts but I'm tried for writing. I had to write some of this post over because it got lost somehow. That's the 3rd time that happened. Talk about frustration.
Aren't you all excited!? I finally found this commercial online. This is the premiere of my first nationally syndicated commercial appearance. Okay, I didn't do much but its a good start. The pay check wasn't bad either, for that I was doing.
The audition and booking of this commercial emerged on Day 75 & 76
It has been approximately 1 month and 3 weeks since The Big 1 came into my life. Since the very first phone call it has been challenge holding back the excitement and keeping the details from you. Now that the results are 100% confirmed you all should brace yourself. I will now reveal The Big 1. Following this post, I will also reveal The Big 1 & 2 very soon after.
Phase 1
It all started on December 3, 2010 the first time I mentioned that amazing phone call I received. At the time I was borrowing my roommates car and returning from 3 exciting auditions during one of the most productive weeks of my quest. At approximately 6:00pm my phone rang as I was cruising on the interstate. The basis of the conversation was exactly like this.
"This is Motown speaking how can I help you?"
"Hey, Motown, this is _____ do you remember me, from Oprah's Your Own Show Contest? I was the casting director that worked with you."
"Of course I remember you. How are you doing?"
"I'm doing great. I'm calling you because, I'm casting for a new reality show on ABC called
"Its tie between Survivor & Amazing Race and it takes place in an international country for 5 weeks during the month of April. We're looking for exiting people with great personalities and I remembered your great personality from the Oprah contest video submission. I was wondering if you would be interested in this opportunity?"
Without any hesitation I said, "Of course I would be interested."
She then shared more basic information. She also told me what I assumed at the time was a catch. She told me it was a team competition. Meaning I had to recruit 2 other people. Uncertain on who I would recruit at the immediate moment she told me we all don't have to live in the same place. Our conversation continued and I began to tell her about my quest. She had no clue I was in LA which is probably the same area she resides in. The momentous phone call continued some more and then she told she'll email more information shortly.
As I said, week 11 was already exiting but this was just the icing on the cake. I even titled that post, "Full Circle Just like I Said...Wow!! - Unbelievable." Meaning everything comes around full circle. We all know how important it is to make a memorable impression, well its a 100 times that important in the entertainment industry. Its been over 5/6 months since I was a running candidate for Oprah's Your Own Show contest and who would of every thought they would of remembered me for a big problem project like this.
Phase 2 Moreover, in about 30mins (more or less) I mentally selected my two teammates. I officially confirmed my teammates in a couple days but upon each call they verbally confirmed with excitement. First I chose my long time friend high school Marissa Hammonds. I pulled her in the same day. Then the following day my comparably recent friend Kimberly Webb called me back and joined the team.
Now, the first thing we had to do was establish a team name and put together a video. That may appear challenging since I'm in LA, Marissa's in Chicago and Kimberly's in Tampa. It was actually a very cool creative process. By the end of the weekend we came up with a team name and began working on our video. Without any further a due there is the premiere of the video we submitted.
Kimberly Webb, Motown Maurice & Marissa Hammonds first team picture for ABC's Expedition Impossible audition process.
Phase 3
We worked very well together considering that we were located completely across the country. I figured out an efficient system and I Fedx the applications and video on Monday, December 13, 2010. While at Fedx I realized how close the office was and probably could off dropped it off in person. Moreover, the immediate next day my team was contacted by email. This is what the email said.
"My name is ______ and I work in the casting department for Expedition Impossible. I just wanted to let you know that we received your application and audition video and the Supervising Casting Producer has watched your tape and is excited to pitch your team so here's what we need - more pictures of your team. Please email me some additional photos, of all of you together (team pic) or individual shots of you guys doing various adventure stuff, races, marathons etc... and/or pics of you guys at work or out an about or any fun shots. We use these photos to create a pitch packet so the better the pictures the better we can make your team look. I understand that you may not all live in the same city so send us what you can. PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR TEAM NAME IN THE SUBJECT LINE OF THE EMAIL."
Phase 4
I then realized that our original team picture was too cute for an adventure show. The picture below was one of the new pictures we sent.
Kimberly Webb, Motown Maurice & Marissa Hammonds second team picture for ABC's Expedition Impossible audition process.
Phase 5
From this point on, all we could do is be positive and wait. Since Marissa and Kimberly never met we decided to leave it like that. We figured that would make an organic and interesting experience for the show and our team. From time to time my team mates and I spoke individually and allowed our imagination to run wild.
Phase 6
Finally on Tuesday, January 4, 2010 upon arriving back to LA from Tampa we received another phone call followed by a email. This is what the email said:
Hello!
Congratulations on making it past another cut for “Expedition Impossible!” We've shown your tape to the producers, they like what they've seen and want to keep you in consideration to be on the show! So it doesn't mean you've made it on the show but you're currently at the best spot you can be in for the time being. Be advised that many documents may be coming your way over the next few weeks if you make it past more cuts including a Participant Background Questionnaire Form, a Medical History Form and an Applicant Agreement but for now we just want to make sure you have all of the necessary dates.
If you are chosen as a Finalist, you will need to be available for Finals Week in Los Angeles , Wednesday, January 26th through Saturday, January 29th. NO EXCEPTIONS!!! While you are in Los Angeles you will be able to maintain contact with home and work through the telephone and/or Internet ONLY. And if you are chosen as a cast member for this season it will be up to a five (5) week commitment from the end of March through April. Finals is a 4 day commitment in LA - if your team is chosen we'd fly you out, put you up in a hotel and during that time you'd be doing interviews with executives, producers, going through psychological testing to make sure you're not crazy, medical testing to make sure you're healthy and not going to croak on the course etc. Once finals is complete, you will have an idea if you've been chosen to be on the show, that way you can return home for about 4 -5 weeks and continue to train and prepare for the shoot.
A note about finals: In a perfect world I would be able to tell you 2 weeks before if you're coming out - but the reality is I could call as little as 4-5 days before finals and say they've made their decision and we're going to fly you out. So that's why I tell you about the dates now so you can keep them in the back of your head as time gets closer.
Also - from here on out your status in this process should be very hush hush. Don't facebook, blog, tweet, etc about it - if you do you'll be disqualified and we DON'T want that to happen!
As you can see, if chosen, you’ve got about 3 months until you start racing so I would recommend you start training now. We don’t expect you to come in ready to climb Mt. Everest but it would be wise to start getting in the best shape you can over the next 3 months. Most importantly is developing stamina. We want to make sure you have the endurance to tackle this race so you don’t end up quitting - which is the worst thing that can happen because you’ll always be labeled a quitter and you don’t want to be the reason your team had to leave the competition.
Once again, more information will follow over the next month and if you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact me. Please make sure your teammates received this information as well!
Phase 7
This contest and email probably specifically explains why I started working on out on day 108. Things couldn't look at better at this point. In the very beginning I didn't really think about the contest very much. I had some much other stuff going on it wasn't even a focus for me. Then as the days drew closer I started to battle to keep my energy a float. Slowly but surely I started to adopt this weary feeling. As we got closer to the date of the finals I began becoming agitated and restless. We know that they could contact us 4 to 5 days before but something didn't seem right. I needed some answers.
Throughout the whole process, one of my only sources for answers where to visit the pages of the teams created on Facebook. It was interesting to see some of our potential competition, at the same time they started to have some updates I wasn't aware of towards the end. Then finally one team on Facebook posted that they got word that if the teams are not informed by Tuesday, January 18, 2011 your not about of the show.
Tuesday morning I woke up remembering a good dream about Expedition Impossible. Nevertheless, my observations of my previous dreams have always predicted the opposite results. I soon started to reach my breaking point. I was trying to do what every it took to get Expedition Impossible off of my mind. The day before someone was passing out free tickets on Hollywood Blvd for a Dr. Phil showing and I took one to occupy part of my Tuesday. The live taping of Dr. Phil cleared my mind momentarily but once it was all over that negative feeling returned. Now I'm back to checking my phone for emails, missed calls and messages. Of course there was nothing there.
Finally, around 3pm, I sent out an email to the casting directors trying to find out my teams status during my theater rehearsal. My email read like this:
Greetings _____,
I hope all is well. I'm sure you are busy working on the logistics of the show. However, I was wondering if you had a status update or closer for my team. I also know you may contact teams 4 or 5 days before but if you had any info it would be greatly appreciated. I've been in the state of limbo before and its not always the most exciting place to be in.
Once again if you can share anything it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Have a great day.
Motown
No response was received. Last week I was casted to be apart of a play and started rehearsing this week. My rehearsal helped free my mind for two hours but when it was over I was on the hunt again. On the hunt for answers of course. After rehearsal I went home to viewed the Facebook pages and almost all the teams mentioned that they didn't advance. Before this, I was already sure that those teams wasn't going to advance for a few reasons. One reason was because they didn't know a lot of info I knew. Nevertheless, my team was still in limbo. I absolutely hate being in limbo. At this point I couldn't take it anymore. At 6pm, I called one of the casting directors and she provided me the closer I was looking for. She told all the teams that advanced were informed on Friday, January 14, 2011. I responded by saying thank you, good bye.
Once I got off the phone I took a deep breath. Simultaneously, the feeling for relief and disappointment came upon me. Relief because I was no longer in limbo. As far as my team not advancing, I think we gained the respect to at least be informed that we didn't make it.
I was disappointed because...I mean who wouldn't be disappointed. A part of me wanted to shed a tear but it never happened. I laid down and fell asleep for about an hour.
I woke up and I decided to email the very first casting director who contacted me.
Subject: Closer Received No Response Needed
______ confirmed the results early today.
In the past I would of probably asked another question asking "why" but by now I'm sure the answer won't be any different from all my other disappointing results.
Such as...
*My team has done nothing wrong...sometimes these things don't work out.
*Things didn't fit together as we would of hoped.
*The s process is not a comment on our talent or ambition and of course, I know... we can try again next year.
I know the responses by heart now.
Moreover, it was fun while it lasted and I'm at the least grateful that you remembered me and thought of me for such a great opportunity.
I wish you the best throughout 2011.
As I said, you don't have to respond.
Take care
Motown
That email partly mirrored the email she sent me in July 2010, when I was declined from Oprah's Your Own Show Contest. So I will admit I was partly trying to be a smarty pants. Here is how she responded.
Motown,
I will continue to remember you for future shows, but I truly hope you can stop
taking it so personally if you are not chosen. Everything takes time. Be proud
that we remembered you - We certainly don't remember everyone!
I wish you so much luck in the future. I think you are unique and talented:)
Of course I had to clarify that I wasn't taking it personal at all. Here is my response.
My email must of read wrong. I honestly never take anything personal. Business is business.
If i intend on being apart of the business I have to respect the business and I do respect it.
In the end, it is what it is.
With all sincerity from my heart.
Thank you for the opportunity.
All the best.
Motown
How does this disappointment like this make me feel you ask? I'll tell you...
Let me first answer that question by first sharing this quote: "The pursuit of happiness is the source of all unhappiness." I'm sure their is a better physiological explanation but according to my mom my late grandfather would say, "Every disappointment builds a foundation." I never met my grandfather (Or any grandparent period) but I have definitely adopted some of his wisdom.
My life is laced with disappointment which explains why I am such a firmly grounded person today. I am generally immune to disappointment after all these years. I've been there done that. Something I will never learn to deal with is the state of "limbo." If I or my team makes it so far and advances let me know so we can move forward accordingly. With Oprah's your own show contest my biggest challenge was not knowing. I also felt relief back in July after harassing them for the results I deserved.
What's Next?
I was still spreading all my egg into various baskets but the Expedition Impossible basket started to feel like the best one at the time. So when the results came in, the primary question that premeditated my mind was "What's next?"
To find out full details on what's next on The Quest of a Late Night Talk Show host tune into into Week 18's Review post.
This week started off slow on Sunday, then it picked up really fast on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday dropped to a very sad/low point and I decided to use some of my powers to attract some more excitement/auditions for the rest of the week. I got exactly what I wanted on Thursday and Friday. They were both eventful days, then Saturday was back to dull.
Now, I already know everyday isn't always going to be exciting. That's not the issue I've discovered. It is only the 2nd week of the year and I've been contacted by my agent a multitude of times for auditions. They are really pulling through and are excited about this year for me. As you scroll below you will read a briefing about the auditions I've had. The real issues is that I'm really not doing very well at the auditions. I'm my own critic and I have to be honest and say that my audition performances have sucked.
The moment when an audition notification comes in, it becomes an exhilarating experience. Researching the show/commercial and its exposure potential is fascinating. Reading the script and trying to figure out my obligation during the cold read and how to impress the casting directors is absolutely excruciating. Acting isn't easy. I've done these auditions enough to know that I really dislike the process as well as "acting" somewhat.
I'm getting the auditions now and I'm sure that there will be plenty more coming my way in the near future. This is exactly what I asked for. Now I just have to figure out how to make an impact at these auditions. So far my reading is terrible and I'm not capturing the essence of the part. I probably wouldn't pick myself either at this point if I was the casting director. Overall, I have to just get better.
How am I going to get better? I have to shift my focus away from attending an whole bunch of auditions and steadily work on my craft. Which is why I have joined two improvisation classes. One class on Monday's and the other on Thursday's. Both were really great. Around September of 2009, while in Tampa, I paid to attend a acting class for about a month but I sat there and mainly did not participate much. The reason was because the teacher talked too much and she never made enough time for everyone to do the activities. It was like a battle to perform, I don't think we should have to battle for that. The two classes I'm now attending has much less talking and everyone gets a chance to participate in rotation. I must admit I love it. Even better they both are free.
Proof to you how serious I am about these improvisation classes is I've turned down the opportunity to be in a music video called "Take Me Home Tonight." Its cool to get phone calls from my people in Tampa that they seen me in a music videos but I didn't come to LA just to be in music videos. I'm here to book big auditions among others things.
Day 112 = Sunday, January 9, 2011
* I did some running in hopes of playing some basketball. I found two courts but no competition.
* Nothing significant to report.
Day 113 = Monday, January 10, 2010
* I attempted to get a 7 day free pass at a local gym but they wouldn't allow me in because I had a Florida license. So in stead I walked into a local hotel and just used their gym to work out.
* Received a notice from my agent for big 2 auditions tomorrow. You can hear the excitement from my agent(s) in their voice.
* I'm on a energy high. I'm feeling good and confidence is sky high... I'm walking like I got money again.
* I attended my first improvisation class and really enjoyed it. It was fun comfortable and funny. The exercises was appealing and I didn't waste anytime to jump in. There are about 100 people in the class and directed by Chris Berube. The name of his company isThe Berubians Theatre Company. The class is every Monday and I plan on attending as many as I can.
Day 114 = Tuesday, January 11, 2011
* My first audition of the day was at Warner Brothers Studios. I knew about it yesterday but it wasn't completely confirmed until late this morning. There was no way I would of made it there on my own but thankfully my wonderful agent picked me up at a central location and dropped me off at the studio. How great is that? I believe the audition was for a role on a remake of a Cinderella movie. It wasn't a perfect audition but I incorporated some improv for the first time since I've been in LA (Inspired by day 111) and I made them laugh an additional 3 times. I left with confident because I could gauge that I'm getting better. I'm not there yet but I'm getting better.
* My next audition was at Fox studios. Upon arriving there two cool things happened. First I arrived at the spot for the audition I saw a tall guy and standing next to what seemed to look like a clip board. I approached him thinking I had to sign in next to him and we ended up introducing ourselves. We shook hands, he told me his was Teck Holmes and I told him mine. One second later he said, "Oh, Motown from Ybor City. I know about you... I read your blog... Keep doing what your doing." I said, thank you and I said him how long him been in California. He told me he's been here for 10 years, chatted for a few more seconds then he told me where to sign in.
As I'm signing in, my mind is trying to connect the dots on exactly how he knew me. I thought maybe he's from Tampa but... I approached he again and asked how he heard of me and he said just randomly stumbled upon my blog and read up on me. How erratic is that? I never met this guy before but he ran into my blog and noticed me at an audition. Wow!
About 15mins later I noticed someone I never met before but he had a notable face from television. Singer/Actor Marques Houston was approaching my direction. Then I immediately realized that he signed in the same place I did. I was pretty impressed that he was auditioning for the same part I was. I'm moving on up. We made eye contact a few curious times from a distance but there was no verbal interaction.
I didn't do that great at this audition in my opinion but you live and you learn. As I was leaving I saw Marques Houston outside waiting, shook his hand, told him good luck/I like his work and walked off. In response he smiled and said, "thank you." I thought maybe I should of gave him one of my fliers but whenever I see a celebrity I always figure I'll meet them again.
Marques Houston auditions for the same part with Motown Maurice
* On the way home I noticed a young man probably in high school with a very tall high top fade on the bus. I figured this would be a test for me to see if my high top is back and noticeable again. He didn't notice me at first but when his friend walked they were both pointing. The young man said I was the 2nd person he noticed with one. He's about the 2nd or 3rd person I noticed also.
Day 115 = Wednesday, January 12, 2011
* At improvisation class on Monday, the teacher named a list of plays that is showcased everyday of the week. My friend Cassandra told me she was going to audition for the Vampire Masquerade. I thought I should go and watch. As busy as I was, I figured I might not have time for rehearsals. When Wednesday arrived Cassandra couldn't make it and I ended up being placed in an audition group. I didn't really come with the intentions to audition but what the hell.
When my group walked in the teacher/director asked for head shots and resume. Since I didn't have that with me so I gave me a flier. A few moments later he asked if I had my own late night talk show. I said, "I did in Florida but now I"m on a quest to get it back, nationally." He said, maybe we can get a late night talk show going here."
On Monday day he did talk about the opportunity for actors to create their own theatrical shows and will do what ever he can to support them. (Everyone all together with me, "Hmmmmmmmm, very interesting.")
The audition was short and simple. When the lights were red we acted with no talking and when the lights changed to blue we added talking. In both lights we were acting like vampires. It all took place in less than a min. I probably said one line and didn't do much. He said if you made it he'll give us a call and I left.
Day 116 = Thursday, January 13, 2011
After such a great Tuesday and Wednesday things began to slow down again today. Since I didn't want that to happen so soon I decided to draw out my powers and summon another audition.
* I later got a text for an audition for a Toyota internet commercial for Friday and I was casted for the Vampire Masquerade.
* I also started Monkey Butler Comedy Improv class. This group was much smaller then the group on Monday and it was great. There was a lot of more time to interact and execute the activities. I'm looking forward to coming back.
Day 117 = Friday, January 14, 2011
* I started my day with a healthy work out got another audition. The last few auditions come in after I decided to focus my on the auditions. After this one I decided maybe I shouldn't be too greedy with my powers. I couldn't help but wonder if there was a linkage to working out and being positive to for all these great opportunities coming my way.
* Now I had to face to challenge of figuring out how to make auditions in one day. Lucky they were right across the street from each other. I mean literally across the street from each other. I even transported back and from one audition to another to avoid the long lines.
The Toyota audition was wack. I had to pretend like I was playing an air guitar and I did terrible. My mind was more focused on the other audition. The other audition was for a Hispanic show that needed a black guy as a best friend. This would of been a great opportunity because they would of shot it in Miami, FL for 6 weeks. Well, I messed up my chances. I know the part didn't require that I spoke alot of Spanish but my character was the type that fitted in even thought he didn't know much.
On my script there was a few sections with Spanish. I still thought I had to read it. On the way there to the location I found Spanish lady on her lunch break and asked her to help me. She had no problem doing so. It was a lot so I pulled out my phone and recorded our voices. I spent a lot of time trying to learn out to pronounce those words.
As soon as my audition come up I stared speaking Spanish at the first section and I was cut off. It wasn't something I had to learn. It was there only for caption. I started over and I'm sure the rest of the audition was terrible in their eyes.
* Among both auditions I was suppose to be at my first Vampire Masquerade audition at 3pm. I was so late. I arrived at 5pm. The director was cool and said I could come on Monday.
Day 118 = Saturday, January 15, 2011
* I had an audition for some type of musical PSA audition but I arrived at an bunch of unorganized chaos. I ended up leaving.
* The call for the music video invite came today but I turned it down the following day.
Notable mentions
* On Monday my mom told me how sneaky the dealership was, changed her a whole bunch of unnecessary changes and that they didn't give close to the amount promised for my truck's trade it. I can't wait for the day when I can just pay for everything in cash. I hate these rip off dealerships.
* My face has been looking smooth and nice. Since I arrived to LA I've had a few bad cases of razor bumps. It was hard readjusting after growing a beard for 5 months. Hence, my usage of 100% Virgin Olive Oil as my moisturizer has been working.
Final Thoughts
I took a few extra days to publish this post. Sometimes I do that because I'm overwhelmed with things to accomplished or because of lack of energy and motivation. Lack of energy and motivation towards the end of this week is the culprit for this late post. I"m currently writing this post during mid week 18 and lets just say this week hit and confirmed a few home runs of disappointment. I won't say anymore but I suggest you get ready for the next few posts. Yup. The disappointment(s) will be coming in a series of post.
As the quest continues... The Future of Late Night
I ended 2010 with such great energy, determination and passion my life is now set to Auto Amazing. I mean that literally. I'm sure, if I did a survey with my faithful blog followers, most of them would agree that amazing things took place in my life last year. Some of those amazing events were executed with great effort, and the burning desire to be successful. Now that amazing trend has saturated my quest magnetically into a new found principle I call Auto Amazing.
Day 105 = Sunday, January 3, 2011
Day 106 = Monday, January 2, 2011
Auto Amazing Auto Mobile
I came to Tampa with the primary intentions of selling my 2005 Dodge Durango. On day 99, I went to Car Max and was offered only $6,000.00 for my SUV. The bank wouldn't accept the offer since I owed over $9,500.00. I think the bank negotiated around $8,000 but regardless I wouldn't have been able to come up with the difference. The only option I had was to write a for sale sign on the windows of my truck hoping someone would notice and make the purchase. The entire duration of my trip was spent with no leads of selling my truck.
I pleaded my situation with the bank and my only options presented was to have my truck voluntarily repossessed or repossessed the old fashion way. At first I figured I would refrain from the harassment and drop off the car off at the bank myself. A while later I decided to just leave my car at my parents house until they decide to come and get it.
Moving forward on Sunday, January 2, 2011 and I'm scheduled to depart the next day Monday, January 3, 2011 to arrive in LAX. By the time I woke up and I was notified that there was a sudden change of plans and I won't be able to leave on Monday anymore. Now my flight has changed to Tuesday.
Monday morning, I meet up with a few of my friends on one of Tampa's main roads, Dale Marby. On my way back home I noticed a Toyota dealer ship. A couple days before, my mom was telling me I should go to there and see if they would give me an offer for me car. It also reminded me of an idea I had back in September to trade in my SUV and in return get my mom a new car. The only reason that idea wasn't fresh in my mind was because someone at my bank told me it was difficult.
To make a long story short, I pulled into the dealership, signed some paper work, left with my truck, a few days later on Friday, January 7th my mom came back with my truck and she traded it in and now she is riding out in a 2009 Toyota Prius. This story is amazing because of 2 main reasons.
Reason number 1: I wasn't even suppose to be in Tampa on Monday and I happened to be driving by the dealership and the idea sparked in my head. In my mind I was set to have the truck repossessed.
Reason number 2: My mom is the definition of amazing. She has never owed a vehicle in which she had to make payments. She doesn't like making payments but her love and support transcends all. In deed, she needed a better car but she specifically got another car with the main purpose of taking that burden of debt off of my back. Thank you ma. I love you so much. You are the best.
Lets go back to Monday for a second. Remember I was suppose to be in route to LA that day. Later that evening when things we already looking good for the trade in of my truck, I stopped at the gas station. While pumping gas, someone approaches me with interest of purchasing my truck. Hence, the sign on the window. They took my number and said she would call. They never did call but it just shows that the law of attraction does really works. If you can get one other party to like and/or want what you have then everyone else will start pouring in.
I told my Sponsor for Life, Pamela Y. Robinson and she quoted the rapper Mike Jones. "Back then they didn't want me but now I'm hot they all on me." Not until that moment did I realize how profound the chorus of that song really is. I wonder if Mike Jones knows that. Who? You know Mike Jones. Who? MIKE JONES.
Auto Amazing doesn't stop here. Wait until you read about what happened with Code Blue.
Day 107 = Tuesday, January 4, 2011
* Arrived back in LAX around 3pm/4pm.
* As soon as I checked my voice mail I had an awesome phone call from one of The Big's. I have decided that I won't write about any of The Bigs anymore. I won't even mention if its The Big 1, 2 or 3. Don't worry as soon as I get clearance I'll let you know full details. In the mean while I'll be keeping good records.
* Okay here is the start of another amazing story. Which means its time to reveal Code Blue. On day 102 I mentioned Code Blue for the first time. Code Blue was a notification of an opportunity to audition for a McDonald's commercial. Unfortunately, it was for the following Monday and impossible to make because of my traveling situation. Nonetheless, I felt deep in my heart if it was for me there would be another opportunity extended for another day.
That day was present shortly after I got off the plane. First I received a text then a phone call from my agent. Suddenly I had a McDonald's commercial audition to get ready for the next day. (Keep reading the story gets better)
Day 108 = Wednesday, January 5, 2011
* I started physically working out (Cough cough)
The before picture. Motown Maurice starts to intensely work out. I wonder why. After picture coming soon.
* Audition for the McDonald's commercial is today. I know I didn't do my best but I felt half way decent about it. I'm getting better but not yet fully comfortable. However, there was a good sense of energy in the room. The guy conducting the audition did say, "this was fun," as I was leaving.
Day 109 = Thursday, January 6, 2011
* If you remember reading day 89 I was called to be a tester for a up and coming new game show. Well, I was called back and this time was something special.
My first test was trying to figure out how to get into a full body suit. We were outside in tents and it was very cold. Typical me put the body suit on backwards and managed to unintentionally make a few people laugh. I went into a portable restroom to put it on the correct way and I still managed to put it on wrong.
First I was assigned to get into a makeshift ground level pool of mud and attempt to catch footballs. For some reason I managed to fall every time I tried to catch the football. Believe me, its not easy. After the first fall in the mud I couldn't help but think out loud in my head, "WHAT THE HELL IM I DOING HERE!!!" Probably after my 6th fall I noticed a red substance in my hand. By my surprise it was blood. How it sliced the skin on my palm I have no clue. Moreover, part of me was happy for it because it meant I didn't have to fall in the mud anymore. The medical team reacted immediately and I certainly soaked up the attention.
Motown Maurice hits the mud. Literally!
I got hosed down and mud was still all over me.
You see my boo boo.
Motown Maurice! Your New American Hero. Motown Maurice is here.
After the mud, I started testing in a pull of water below knee level. Myself and another person was handed these nets with poles connected to it and we had to catch various objects being shot in the air. Sounds easy of enough right? That's until two people start blasting water out of a full pressure fire hoses in your face. Unbearable. I really think they were out to get me.
Day 110 = Friday, January 7, 2011
Auto Amazing Vehicle with a Stranger
Today provides the last connecting piece for the amazing McDonald's story.
Note a few important points. First know that I was called again to test for the same game show. This time the location was far beyond anywhere I was familiar with. The only reason I was able to get there was because the coordinator picked me up at a central location. After the ride and nap I arrived in a mountainous area in Santa Clarita, CA. I'm still not sure where I was but myself along with the other testers spent most of our time on this flat mountain.
After a few hours I noticed a two voice messages. The area I was in was so far out that my phone was barely working. I check my messages and it was my agent trying to get a hold of me about my McDonald's call back. They wanted me their at 1:30pm. Hence it was 11:30am, I had no car, we were suppose to be done by 11am but we were still testing. Lets not forget I had no clue where I was.
While I was on the phone with my agent trying to figure out how in the world I could possible make this call back, two people near by over heard my conversation. Both became curious on what I was talking about. While on the phone I thought I heard one young lady say something about borrowing her car but I thought I was hearing things. No body lets a stranger borrow their car.
By the time I got off the phone I had to verify what she said and again I thought my ears were deceiving me. She literally looked at me and said, "If you want you can borrow my car." I didn't even know the girls name at the time but she said I could borrow her car. I probably spoke to her for a total of 2-5 minutes earlier and now she's offering me her car. Wow. Its that amazing?!!!
Few moments later, the other person who was curious about my conversation just happen to be a production supervisor and got clearance with her boss and they agreed that I had a family emergency. I didn't even have to do anything. When I got off the phone my arrangements was set. Words can't describe my gratitude and appreciation for them.
At this moment, Motown Maurice was basically a stranger but Maria gave me the keys to her car anyway. Wow. Thank you Maria.
Motown Maurice & Carla, who gave me the family emergency clearance. Thank you Carla.
30mins later I left in route to the audition with Maria's white ford truck. Now you must be wondering how did I get back since I had no clue were I was. Believe me or not but exactly two weeks before, on December 23rd, the morning I left for Tampa, I spent some time playing with my phone. I realized for the first time that I had a GPS on my phone. I had that phone for probably a year and just two weeks before today I found out I had a GPS on my phone. Wow, did that come in handy. I still had to drive a couple miles down before my phone could get reception but it got me where I needed just fine fine.
On the way to the audition I was visualizing a parking space near by and that's exactly what I got. I got the best parking possible which was directly across the street from the audition.
Parking can't get any better than this. Positive thoughts really work.
As for the call back, I left without the greatest sense of energy towards my way but I know everything always come around full circle. I've learned that I'm interesting, unique and I'm a memorable person. I'm confident that I'll cross paths with casting directors again.
The least I could of was full up Maria's tank.
On the way back, I picked up Maria from her home and she dropped me off home. Of course I continued to show gratitude. One of the other testers took her home. In a conversation about what happened to her car, she then revealed that my family emergency was a McDonald's call back and she let me borrow her car. The guy she told responded by saying, "Did you know him? What if he steals your car?" She obviously felt comfortable with me just by our few minutes of interaction. She told me on the ride home there was a hand full of people she observed that should would of never offered her car but I seemed to have it together. First impressions is something else isn't it.
Oprah’s Contest
Today premiered Oprah's Your Own Show Contest. As you should already know, I was a contending finalist for the contest. To be honest with you I wasn't impressed. A few others that saw the reality show felt the same way. My biggest issue with the show is that its lacking a sense of personality from the contestants. I think Zack is the best person. Not because he his handicap or the underdog but because he is funny and he literally has the best personality.
As for me not being a part of the contest, I am completely content. I also have to say my senses were right from the beginning. During early June/July in the deciding stages of the contest everyone around me just knew I would nab a spot easily. Positive and negative at the same time, I felt deep down inside that I was over qualified. I even said that to my Sponsor for Life, Pamela Y. Robinson. Now, after watching the first show, I can't help but say I was right. I would of advanced through that contest with my eyes closed.
Everything makes sense now. Literally being on that show could hurt of possibly hurt me more than anything else. Besides, I have more character now and I'm sure there is a better opportunity out there waiting for me (Cough Cough).
My other 2 predictions were maybe Oprah wasn't looking for a late night talk show on her network. Or maybe Oprah doesn't target young black males very much. These are only my assumptions but I'm sure in time, if not Oprah, someone on her network will want an interview with me about my story.
Day 111 = Saturday, January 8, 2011
* I paid to read for a casting director at the The Network Studio Workshop in Sherman Oaks. I'm glad I attended the class and saw a few people read. I also picked up some pointers and broke layer of my ice. I've been hold back from being my true self at these auditions. Between reads she complemented someone for adding improvisation in their read. That's all I needed to hear. By the time I was done, I was receiving compliments for adding improvisation in my read. Even if she never calls me for a part in a movie I needed that experience to improve my audition skills. I'm getting better. I'm not at my best yet but I'm breaking my ice.
Final Thoughts
There you have it. My life now on Auto Amazing. My car got sold when it seemed like there was no hope. Then a stranger allowed me to borrow her car for an audition. This is only the beginning of the Auto Amazing experiences to come. This has been an Auto Amazing first week of 2011. It seems like all I have to do is show up and the Auto Amazing feature takes over.
As the quest continues... The Future of Late Night
