Saturday, April 28, 2012

Artist Spotlight with @Vassy


A little backgound on Recording Artist Vassy (from her website)
Sometimes Vassy just needs to be Vassy. This doesn't get to happen all the time. Because when the native-Australian is serving as a successful songwriter for premier artists all over the globe, Vassy Karaglorgos has to be thinking about someone beside herself. However, for a musician with melodies constantly on her brain, and rhythms perpetually flowing through her body, this is not an easy task. Quite simply, the native-Australian, whose new album Beautiful Day is a hand-clapping, foot-stomping pop parade of giddy proportions, is a creator. And as Vassy says, "When you're a creator, you just gotta stay creating." Being an artist is who she is. "I've got things to give people," she says proudly.

Here is my TwitterView with Vassy

TeeJay: Good Morning how are you doing today?

Vassy: Good Morning  ...  Tweet Away!

TJ: So how are adjusting to America, is it much different than Australia?

V: Yes, I miss the beach, Australia is very beach orientated.

TJ: Are you excited about May 1st?

V: YES! I'm excited about my album official release May 1st at

TJ: In 140 characters or less, describe your new album to my audience.

V: Fizzy, clapping stomping-electric soulful pop, I write to inspire, the album is very uplifting!!!

TJ: Who were your major influences growing up?

V: Billie Holliday

TJ: What went through your mind when Victoria's Secret chose your song, or when the other big commercial names chose you?

V: I smiled :-) LOL!

TJ: What is your favorite track from your upcoming album? And why?

V: 'Could This Be Love'  It's my single!

TJ: Which artist(s) would you like to work with in the future?

V: Pink, Sting, Bono from U2, Shakira, Ok Go, so many!

TJ: So what do you think of the new wave of boy bands?

V: I'm not mad at it ;-)

TJ: Over 2 million views on . Which one of your videos is your favorite?

V: ummm I'd say is my favorite video (See bottom of Interview)

TJ: You have a very inspirational story about a choir teacher giving you some rough criticism.... What would you say to them now?

V: I'd tell them thanks for being an evil B!!!! Cause it made me more determined to prove everyone wrong!

TJ: On May 1st where can we scoop up your album?

V: My album will be all over iTunes and stores Amazon and so on I'll send u link

TJ: favorite: color, food, animal, celebrity, sport, song

V: green, passion fruit yogurt, dog, boxing, gypsy woman by crystal waters       oh forgot celebrity... Hmmmmm not sure??

TJ: Give me one interesting fact that even your most loyal fans don't know about you....yet!

V: I'm OCD! LOL!

TJ: Can we expect a tour to help promote the new album?

V: YES!!!

TJ: Anything else you would like to add?

V: yes go to to order my new album and to go check out

V: THANK YOU SO much for your support...its easier to talk than type it all....I'm just blessed to be in LA living my dreams..x

V: also exclusive offer only before album



And finally... My favorite @Vassy Video:

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Awesome TwitterView with @ChrisRiggi

If you don't already know who Chris Riggi is, here is a refresher for you:


I recently caught up with Chris on Twitter and he agreed to do a TwitterView with me.... Here is a candid and FUN interview with the Co-Star of the upcoming ABC hit drama, 'Americana':

TeeJayToday: Thanks Chris... Remember there are no wrong answers, just be yourself and of course, PLUG everything you are working on!  How are you doing?

Chris Riggi: Reading a few scripts at the moment, just relaxing in the apt with the dogs. Yourself?

TJ:  I just wanted to throw this out there... You are a Virgo and so am I, you were born on 9/18 and me 9/19 We should have been brothers!

CR: Wow! That is close... very cool.

TJ:  Any great scripts coming up?   How was your visit with John Cusak?

CR: I love Indies, like 'To Redemption' because its like 5 people in a room who have PASSION, and we go all out with no ego, just trust!

CR: Well, I had a small part in "Adult World" with Emma Roberts and John, we worked the same days but I never officially met him until recently.

TJ: I saw!...I cant wait to see

CR: The Raven was sick! I love those types of movies.

TJ: How much longer till we can see ?

CR: is a winner for sure and the word is SOON!

TJ: Awesome.!.. I need a new show to watch... (

TJ: I see pictures of your dogs on Twitter, tell us about them.

CR: Stella is a chihuahua, named after Stella from 'A Streetcar Named Desire', and Tucci is a French Bulldog named after Stanley Tucci.

TJ: Let's talk about the movie that introduced you to me, Vampires Suck, what was your favorite thing about that movie, and let's not forget your abs.

CR: was a blast to work on. I enjoyed it all. The cast and crew,... esp the Directors were very kind and encouraging.

CR: When I read for the part, I brought my own spray bottle in (not in script), and it made it into the actual movie. (SEE CLIP AT TOP)

TJ: The Spray Bottle part made me laugh out loud in the theater (with everyone else!) and the teats! Cant forget the teats!

TJ: I think you should make a YouTube video of a an AB Workout... It could go VIRAL!  Do you have any tips for us?

CR: Eat clean, organic, and eat often. I have since become a vegetarian. But stay away from artificial foods and sugars.

TJ: I need to do that, maybe we could work on a YT video together, you tell me what to do and I do it and film it! 

CR: I literally would have photos of Ryan Reynolds and Jason Statham lying around for motivation, and it helped. Did the same for

CR: Best tip I can give is to allow yourself a semi-cheat day. But ask around, do research and stay strong.

TJ: I wish I had the body of Ryan Reynolds..... or YOU!


CR: BJ Britt and Charlie Weber were ripped when they showed up to set, so I had some friendly competition 4

TJ: Everyone had amazing bodies in that movie! Made me rethink that buttered popcorn and soda I was having as I watched it in the theater! LOL

CR: In all honestly vegan/vegetarian is the way to go.

TJ: I'm going to go Vegetarian, (Thanks to you) but I need to get all of the bad stuff out of the house first.

CR: If its in the house, you will eat it. So get it out! ha...


TJ: What is the craziest fan moment you have had?

CR: No crazy fan moments for me. Mine are laid back, chill and people I could sit in a bar and shoot the $#*&! with.

TJ: That's amazing! My fans recognize me from my show, but never remember my name, plus they usually are "under the influence" when they see me!

TJ: If you ever come to Texas, we have got to get together and shoot the $#*&!

CR: When I come to Texas, soon hopefully, we can do this face to face my friend.

TJ: Rapid Fire! Your Favorite Book, Color, Food, Animal, Sport, Celebrity, Song...

CR: "True and False"- Mamet,  color- 6pm blue or olive green,  food- anything w/o meat,  sport- WWE,  Celeb- you,  song- "Don't Stop Believin'"-Journey

TJ: I have a fan question for you, wants to know if you have ever kissed a guy for a role?

CR: I have not yet, but a role is a role. I would do it in a heartbeat if it's in the script and the actor was on the level about it.  Leave your Ego at the door.

TJ: I agree! Are you currently in a relationship?  What do you look for in a relationship?

CR: I am in a relationship. I look for loyalty and kindness most of all. YOU MUST LOVE DOGS, Cusack ha!

CR: In a relationship you have to find COMMONALITY or else it wont work.  That is why actors get together so often on set.


CR: Being funny is not an issue, everyone can be funny, humor is everywhere, dark or light. My gal is hilarious and we have a blast.

TJ: That is Awesome! You better put a ring on her finger!

CR: I am not getting married anytime soon, I have thought about it many times, its my romantic side, I have to hush those thoughts ha!

TJ: Is she an actress, do we know her?  Tell us about her.

CR: I would never say never about dating an actress, its tempting of coarse, but I love a woman who can cook. Food is love baby!

CR: Baking is fine too!

TJ: That's my problem I think....I'm addicted to great food!

TJ: So what do you like to do in your down time?

CR: Down time, I like to be with my family, dogs and friends. I love to cook, read and be around people. I do have a man-cave I retreat to tho.

CR: , just feel like plugging it more, ha

TJ: Give us a synopsis of @AmericanaABC.

CR: A legendary fashion designer - his life, his job and his family.

TJ: I'm already a fan because you are in it and I am ready to delve into this show!

CR: Fan wise, we need to mention the beautiful and talented

TJ: Absolutely, ALL EXTREMELY TALENTED!

CR: She will hate this but, the Director told Ashley "I could film this whole show with you, me and the camera guy" that is how good she is.

TJ: She is Amazing and Beautiful, and of course, my favorite in the Twilight Saga.

TJ: What is one interesting fact that your fans don't already know about you?

CR: I took creative writing in high school, true but boring. I am a fantastic kisser!

CR: Hahahaha!

TJ: haha.... We will have to ask your GF if that is true!

TJ: Thanks for the Great TwitterView Chris! 

CR: Much love man, anything you need don't hesitate to contact direct. cheers..viva

People to follow on Twitter: @ChrisRiggi, @AmericanaABC, , , , , @TeeJayToday

On Facebook: Chris Riggi & TeeJay Today

For more information about 'Americana' and when you can watch it, please visit www.ABC.com and follow them on twitter @AmericanaABC

Just FYI: Chris Riggi is one of the most sincere and down to Earth American Actors that I have had the privilege of interviewing.  I think he is undervalued and I expect GREAT things from him in the future.  He has played his roles perfectly in the past on the sets of: To Redemption, Gossip Girl, and Vampires Suck.  I am excited that we will be seeing a lot of Chris in the future with all of the films in post-production.  You can see a full list of everything Chris is working on at http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2861180/

Check out this quick clip of Chris and a commercial Chris did for Kleenex.

Friday, March 23, 2012

The Hunger Games

I am not going to act like a book snob and say that I would rather read the book than watch the movie, because that is bull.... I want to see the movie. Since seeing the movie I am definitely going to buy the book to learn more about the characters.

I heard a rumor that this series is going to be bigger than Twilight and maybe even Harry Potter, after trying to get a movie ticket in the last 24 hours, I believe it. I tried to make it to the midnight showing....sold out...3 AM showing.... sold out... all times Friday.... sold out.. I finally found a loop hole. In Abilene, TX, we have a hidden treasure. We have a Drive-In theater... you don't pre-order tickets, you just show up! I got there about an hour early, but there were already over 100 cars there.

The movie was AWESOME! It will be huge! There is only one thing that I know doesn't matter, but I stared at it the ENTIRE time. (spoiler alert) In the actual games, the main character gets a bow and a satchel of arrows...she shoot a lot of arrows and never seams to run out of arrows. I think the casting was great, the story line (I haven't read the book yet) was developed well and leaves you 'hungry' for more. I cant wait for the next installments of the series! Buy the Book, Watch the movie.... in any order that you want!

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Musician John Mendell #TwitterView

I was able to catch John and get a quick #TwitterView with him!

John, Thank you so much for doing this ! How have you been?

@TeeJayToday Hey I've been great thanks

For all fo the new fans that you are about to receive, tell me a little about your

my music is always changing. I think I've got a pretty diverse selection of songs and there are always more on the way!

Who/What are your inspiration(s) for your

@TeeJayToday my inspirations are my father. Elvis, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin I have a ton

If you could collaborate with one artist, who would it be and why?

Definately Green Day. They've been an idol of mine for a long time

Where can we download or purchase your music if we want to get it?

you can download my music on iTunes, Amazon or at CDBaby


Any summer plans? What is your touring schedule?

My plans are to be soakin' up the sun in Wildwood New Jersey lol. love it there. no tours as of now sadly

What is your most current album out and when are your releasing the next one?

my most recent is Cruisin' To The Blues. the next album will be a little later THIS year. there will ALWAYS be another haha

Okay... Quickfire Q's; : Food, Number, sports team, color, state, interviewer, animal, letter,

Wawa hoagies, 13, Eagles/Phillies/Flyers, blue, Florida, @TeeJayToday, dog, and I guess J lol

Tell us one interesting fact your fans don't already know about you.

my name is actually John Eric Mendell. I have no middle name lol. So I use the 'E.'

Thanks for doing this ... Take Care and keep on making Music!

's music plays on Check it out! Add us to your 'PreSets' You can get us on any smartphone or tablet!


John is a musician currently in New Jersey, please check out his Twitter page as well has his facebook page. Listen to his music then buy a CD! What a nice guy!

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Lots of Movies watched today....

I was off from work today and took advantage of the time to see a new release and to catch up on some older movies that I missed.

John Carter:
This movie was awesome! I had been waiting to see it, the scenery was AMAZING... Of course I had to see it in 3D! I thought that some of the 3D scenes were lacking but that could be cause the theater that I saw it in is a little older and the screen is smaller than all of the other screens in the area, but it was the only place in town where it was showing in 3D. The story was great, the special effects were great, the actors were great too! Go See it!

Jack & Jill:
It has been awhile since I have gotten my Adam Sandler fix, and to tell the truth, I should have waited. There were some funny parts but not worth buying the movie. The saddest part of this whole movie is that I can do the Jill Voice perfectly!

Footloose:
Anytime I see a remake I constantly am thinking of the original. Too me it take too long for the movie to take off, but when it finally does, it is great. It was rumored that Zac Efron was offered the leading role, I personally think he would have been a better fit. Don't get me wrong, the movie is still worth it! I love how they added more relevant music to make it connect with a whole new generation.


Sunday, March 4, 2012

New Movie, New Band Video

I recently was able to go see a group called 360, please watch the video.







I was also able to go see "The Lorax" opening weekend, it was an awesome movie, I have always been a 'greenie' so this movie was right up my alley. I love to plant things, recycle, heck, I even have the website www.MyEarthShare.com. If you get a chance to go see it, do, but more importantly, take a young person with you so that they can start looking at the environment with a sense of ownership. Below are a set of links on how you can own your own part of 'The Lorax'






I am also working on a TwitterView, so please check back often!

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Movie Review

I recently given the chance to watch a new movie before it hits theaters. (Which is really cool)

The movie was "Playback" and stars Christian Slater and the blong guy from "The Covenent".

I enjoyed this horror movie but was left wanting more. Sometimes the make-up was horrible, the story needed some help, but the actors were okay. There is one scene that make me uneasy, supposedly this takes place to high school students and there are a few nude female scenes, I felt like I should turn my head, but the actors are over 18.

This movie makes you think about your soul and social media. It states that if you have a video of yourself, it steals your soul and leave room for someone or something else to move in, well..... I am a freelance photographer, had a TV show that ran 3 times a week in 2 markets for an hour each time, AND I have close to 70 videos on Youtube. Looks like I am screwed!

The move "Playback" comes out in March. If you are needed a movie for that first date to scare the girl into your arms, go to it, but she wont let you take any pictures of her for a few days afterwards!