There Was A Man

National Inclusion Project: 2009 Champions For Change Gala Report

2009-11-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

THE NATIONAL INCLUSION PROJECT GALA HONORING 2009 CHAMPIONS RAISES OVER $465,000 TO BENEFIT THE INCLUSION OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

Supporters of The National Inclusion Project helped to raise over $465,000 at its recent gala honoring 2009 Champions. The inspirational evening was held October 17, 2009 at the Raleigh Marriott City Center in North Carolina. The funds raised will be used to give children with disabilities the opportunity to experience life along side their typical peers.

The gala benefit celebration featured Champions presentations and addresses by Project co-founders Diane Bubel and Clay Aiken. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in both a silent and a live auction in support of the Project’s programs. The Project received funding support from the Million Dollar Round Table and Christies Cookies and the night concluded with a special performance by Clay Aiken.

The National Inclusion Project’s Champions are selected for their substantive efforts to give children with disabilities the opportunity to play, learn and grow side-by-side with their typical peers.

This year’s honorees were:

Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA, Inc., Corporate Champion: Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA, Inc. continually demonstrates its outstanding commitment to help young people with disabilities to maximize their potential and participation in society. The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation has had a sizeable impact since it was established in 1991: more than $9 million invested, affecting the lives of many thousands of young people with disabilities, their families, friends and communities. Added to that total are thousands of employee volunteer hours and the transformation of individuals, one life at a time.

Dr. Gregory P. Byrne, Patrick Henry Hughes, and Patrick John Hughes: Patrick Henry Hughes was born in 1988 with significant disabilities. His father, Patrick John Hughes, introduced him to the piano at the age of nine months. Patrick has studied piano in the years since and later began the study of trumpet. At the suggestion of Louisville's marching band director, Dr. Greg Byrne, Patrick Henry joined the marching band, playing trumpet while his father pushed him in his wheelchair through the marching routines, which attracted increasing crowd and media attention throughout the fall football season. The Hughes family has used this platform to speak on the importance of recognizing the abilities of ALL and the importance of inclusion for a person’s social, mental and physical well-being.

The Sparkle Effect: Sarah Cronk and Sarah Herr, two varsity cheerleaders from Pleasant Valley High School are being honored as Champions for founding The Sparkle Effect - a nonprofit organization that encourages high school students across the United States to include children with special needs on cheerleading squads. By providing guidance, peer mentoring, and online tools to enable high school students to fully integrate cheerleading squads, they have changed life experiences for teenagers across the country and the awareness they have created will continue to impact generations to come.

Diane Bubel and Clay Aiken also awarded the first Bubel Aiken Founder’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service to Marti Ford for her efforts to place the National Inclusion Project’s children’s book, Our Friend Mikayla, in hundreds of schools and libraries in the Las Vegas area. It was through grassroots volunteer efforts that the National Inclusion Project was started and has been able to make huge strides for inclusion nationwide. Marti Ford is just one example of many working together to continue to fulfill the Project’s mission of supporting communities with inclusive programs and creating awareness about the possibilities that inclusion can bring.

About Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation: Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) was established in 1991 by the Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and its US subsidiaries, with the mission of helping young people with disabilities maximize their potential and participation in society. Based in the Washington DC area, MEAF has invested more than $3.2 million since 2003 in its Inclusion Initiative to help organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs, Girl Scouts, and the YMCAs serve more youth with disabilities. www.meaf.org

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Champion of Change Gala 2009 National Inclusion Project Patrick John Hughes children The Sparkle Effect special needs inclusion Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation Marti Ford Diane Bubel

A Surprise Visit

2009-11-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Clay appeared as a surprise guest (a surprise to him too) at the David Foster and Friends concert at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA friday evening. Clay sang a stunning version of "Unchained Melody" at David's request. Luckily, he knew the lyrics. *g*

Tags: Clay Aiken David Foster Unchained Melody

Cookies for Dollars

2009-09-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

Nominate the National Inclusion Project for the a cash prize in the Christie Cookie $25,000 Charity Giveaway. The most nominated charity will receive a check for $10,000. The runner-up wins $5,000, and the next 10 will receive $1,000 each.

One vote per email address. Vote with as many e-mail addresses that you have at your disposal.

Go to the drop down menu and search for National Inclusion Project. Fill out remaining fields and hit submit. You will get a 'thank you for voting' message.

Nominations must be submitted on or before October 15, 2009. The winning charities will be announced in November 2009. One vote per email address.

Currently, the Top 20 charities are:
Updated: 9/20/2009 / 05:55 CST
1. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Lenexa, KS 8751
2. Young Singers Foundation Tulsa, OK 8566
3. Ronald McDonald House Winston-Salem, NC 3717
4. United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation Pittsburgh, PA 3518
5. Child Advocacy Center Murfreesboro, TN 3452
6. Kyle David Miller Foundation Golden, CO 3383
7. Liz Logelin Foundation Minnetonka, MN 3324
8. Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance Silver Spring, MD 2473
9. Franklin's Charge/Franklin Battlefield Franklin, TN 2373
10. Miriam's Promise Nashville, TN 2269
11. Camp Rap-A-Hope Mobile, AL 2246
12. National Inclusion Project Raleigh, NC 1854
13. High Hope Inc. Brentwood, TN 1566
14. National Autism Association Nixa, MO 1501
15. NBIA Disorders Association El Cajon, CA 1431
16. Saddle Up Franklin Nashville, TN 1281
17. Ronald McDonald House of Nashville, TN 1271
18. Hope 4 Africa West Des Moines, IA 1254
19. C.O.L.E.'s Foundation 1169
20. A Place to Bark Portland, TN 1047

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken National Inclusion Project contest Christe Cookies charity

Spotlight Video: As Long As We're Here

2009-08-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

Don't miss this beautiful video made by a Columbian Clay Aiken fan. The song "As Long As We're Here" is set to images from the film City of Angels.

~Montage by ClayColumbia

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken City of Angels Meg Ryan Nicholas Cage As Long As We're Here Montage

It's Here: A New Record Label

2009-08-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

From Clay Online:

We Are Excited To Announce...

08/10/09

Clay Aiken signs record deal with Universal Music’s Decca Records. Expect new music in the first half of 2010! Keep checking back here for more details to come.

Clay joins a very eclectic roster of artists:

* Claudia Acuna
* Clifton Anderson
* Bajofondo
* Andrea Bocelli
* Richard Bona
* Neal E. Boyd
* Boyz II Men
* Branford Marsalis Quartet
* James Carter
* Celtic Thunder
* Paula Cole
* Paolo Conte
* Corrigan Brothers
* Placido Domingo
* East Village Opera Company
* Marianne Faithfull
* Roberta Gambarini
* David Garrett
* Gary Go
* Delta Goodrem
* Charlie Haden
* Roy Hargrove
* Dave Holland
* Brendan James
* James
* Katherine Jenkins
* Kaki King
* Sonya Kitchell
* Ladyhawke
* Julian Lage
* Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin
* Amy Macdonald
* Alison Moyet
* Debi Nova
* One Flew South
* Danilo Perez
* Andre Previn
* Proclaimers, The
* Rhythms del Mundo
* Sonny Rollins
* David Sanborn
* Boz Scaggs
* John Scofield
* Siouxsie
* Faryl Smith
* Emma Sophina
* Sting
* Anna Ternheim
* The Waterboys
* Vittorio
* Rufus Wainwright
* Tommy Wallach
* Hayley Westenra
* World Café Live
* Miguel Zenon

From Wikipedia:

Today, Decca is a leading label for both classical music and Broadway scores although it is branching out into pop music from established recording stars; its most recent hit was Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA (2007) by Boyz II Men, which reached #27 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. In December 2007 [ed.]and had a cumulative sales of 228,732 per Pulse, it was announced that Morrissey would be joining the Decca roster. As mentioned, it is reentering the American country music scene in 2008. There are two Universal Music label groups now using the Decca name. The Decca Label Group is the US label whereas the London-based Decca Music Group runs the international classical and pop releases by such world famous performers as Andrea Bocelli and Hayley Westenra.

Congratulations Clay!!!

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Decca Universal Record Label

Happy 1st Birthday to Parker

2009-08-08T05:11:00.000-07:00

Has it been a year since the "He's here" announcement?

Last year on 8-8-08 at 8:08AM, Parker Foster Aiken was born. Parents cannot be truly prepared for the life altering experience that having a child brings -- from the intense love to the worry, and not to mention the sleep deprivation. The first year is a time of adjustment as well as a time of joy. Today is a milestone -- the first birthday of many to come. So Happy Birthday sweet baby boy. Enjoy your cake!

Tags: Clay Aiken son Parker birthday

A New Name for the Bubel-Aiken Foundation

2009-08-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

National Inclusion Project

8/05/2009
An open letter from co-founders Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel:

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation grew out of the relationship between the two of us and Diane’s son, Mike, a 13 year old with autism. The bond between us grew strong as we shared a vision of a world where children like Mike could be fully immersed in society. We had both witnessed children with disabilities repeatedly turned away from activities opened to typical children. We met while Clay was pursuing a degree in special education at UNC-Charlotte. As part of that pursuit, Clay completed an independent study project where he created a foundation that focused on providing the support system for recreational and educational programs around the country to open doors to children with disabilities that had thus far remained closed. We realized that an organized effort could encourage and facilitate community inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. This shared goal grew into reality on July 28, 2003 when we officially announced the creation of The Bubel/Aiken Foundation.

In the six years since, the Foundation has established itself as a leading voice for inclusion working with a “Who’s Who” list of youth organizations – YMCAs, Best Buddies International, Boys & Girls Clubs, CampFire USA, 4H, the ARC – as well as many other local parks and recreation departments, community centers, and privately-run programs. The Foundation has formed partnerships with Johns Hopkins University’s National Center for Summer Learning, the University of Massachusetts-Boston’s Center for Social Development and Education, the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability, the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration, and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center.

In 2008, both of the Foundation’s cutting edge inclusion models – Let’s ALL Play and the K-12 Inclusive Service Learning Program – were closely evaluated with overwhelmingly positive results. Children with and without disabilities in these programs saw growth in motor skills, social skills, and self-esteem, and the impact of the friendships made will last long into the future.

In six years, the Foundation has worked with hundreds of programs, trained numerous staff members and leaders, and provided inclusive opportunities for over 20,000 children. This far-reaching impact would not have been possible without the dedicated support of countless volunteers and supporters. With your help in raising awareness and funds through projects like Wrapping for Inclusion and Change for Change as well as local fundraising efforts like cookbooks, gatherings, and online donation drives, the Foundation has dedicated the vast majority of every dollar into making an impact with our programs. As we realized the impact the Foundation has already made, it became apparent that even bigger accomplishments could be on the horizon. To that end, we along with the rest of the Board decided that a new name for the Foundation would establish long-term credibility and stability. We sought a name that would signify the Foundation’s position as a national leader on inclusion as well as recognize the Foundation’s start and the efforts of its faithful supporters. After much thought and deliberation, we are proud to introduce the organization we co-founded as the National Inclusion Project.

The National Inclusion Project is poised to continue to make an impact with thousands of children nationwide as well as raise the national consciousness about the need for and benefits of inclusion. We are excited beyond measure to see Clay’s original “project” become one that so many people have invested time, energy, and dollars in to see doors opened for children who may have never gotten the opportunity to participate in life the way their peers do. The National Inclusion Project is moving forward hand-in-hand with supporters, families, program providers, and other advocates to see the vision of full inclusion nationwide become a reality. Please join us in our push to make a difference in communities all over the country.

Co-Founders of the National Inclusion Project,
(formerly The Bubel-Aiken Foundation)
Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel

Technorati Tags:
Clay Aiken, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation National Inclusion Project TBAF children special needs

Spotlight Video: The Right Sh-Stuff: A Clay Aiken Mashup

2009-07-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

One of these days Clay Aiken will get some projects going, and I'll get my blog up and running on a more regular basis. In the meantime, here is a very well done montage with clips from the film, "The Right Stuff" interspersed with clips from AI2.

~~Montage by hosaa~~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken montage The Right Stuff AI2

Spotlight Video: Happy Father's Day

2009-06-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, soon there will be career news to report. According to some tweets there looks to be a book in the works, but there's no official word yet. In the meantime, in honor of Clay's first Father's Day, here is a very sweet video montage that features Clay, Jaymes, and their adorable son.

~~Montage by luluasst~~
~~Song: Brahm's Lullaby~~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken montage Father's Day Parker Jaymes Foster Brahm's Lullaby

David Foster and Friends

2009-04-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken joins David Foster and Friends at Mandalay Bay on May 9th.

Back by popular demand, a concert celebration featuring music’s premier songwriter and producer David Foster will take place Saturday, May 9 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. The event will pay tribute to the 15-time Grammy winner and will feature Clay Aiken, Philip Bailey from the chart-topping band Earth, Wind & Fire, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and Oprah Winfrey’s protégé, Charice. Foster also will perform some of the hits he has written or produced during his 40-year musical career. The event is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

For tickets: Link

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken David Foster Mandalay Bay Las Vegas Charise Brian McKnight Earth, Wind & Fire

The Family Equality Council Award

2009-04-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken Accepts Family Equality Council Award

Last night at Tavern on the Green in New York City, The Family Equality Council honored Terry Boggis, Director of Center Kids in NYC, with the first Hostetter-Habib Family Award for her over twenty years of service to the LGBT community. The Family Equality Council also honored Clay Aiken for his longstanding commitment to all children through his inclusion work with his own foundation, The Bubel-Aiken Foundation, his work as a Goodwill Ambassador with UNICEF, and for for all that he does to make the world a safer place for his own child and the children of LGBT parents.

Here is the video of Clay acceptance speech:

~Clay Aiken receives the Family Equality Council Award at Tavern on the Green on April 21, 2009. Video courtesy of Mustbeeme~

Clay and guest performer, Linda Eder

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Family Equality Council Tavern on the Green LGBT Terri Boggis Award Linda Eder

Holding Court

2009-04-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

America's Next Top Model
with special guest Clay Aiken

For more ANTM information visit Carolina O n My Mind.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Tyra Banks ANTM America's Next Top Model judge mentor acting challenge

Judge Aiken: America's Next Top Model

2009-04-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

This week Clay will be starring in America's Next Top Model as judge and a mentor in the acting challenge.

Promo:

Here's an interview from the Associated Press with the exciting news that Clay is fielding offers from record labels, television and stage.

Aiken judges aspiring models' acting abilities
By MARTHA WAGGONER
The Associated Press
Monday, April 6, 2009; 1:53 PM

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Performer Clay Aiken says he thinks his "American Idol" experience helped contestants appreciate his comments when he was a judge in an episode of "America's Next Top Model" due to be aired Wednesday.

"It was interesting to be on the other side of the table and think of all these things that I went through in 2003," Aiken told The Associated Press in a phone interview, referring to the year he finished second to Ruben Studdard during the second season of Fox's hit reality show.

"I think the girls kind of appreciated that, the fact that I had been in a similar position," Aiken, 30, said in the Friday interview. "I was going to be a judge, yes, but be a judge who understood a little bit about what they're going through."

Aiken's stint as a judge and opposite the contestants in an acting scene airs Wednesday night on the CW Network. He said he was selected to judge acting because of his time in "Monty Python's Spamalot" on Broadway and because the competition focused on stage acting.

It also didn't hurt that the show's host and creator, Tyra Banks, has been a friend since Aiken appeared on her talk show in 2006.

Aiken appears with the contestants in a quick scene designed "to show their ability to act in a large and comedic way," he said. "A lot of the struggle for these contestants is to be able to come out of their shells."

He doesn't know who won the season, although he does know who gets voted off Wednesday. One clue is that the women who stay are "the people who are willing to be themselves and not worry," he said.

Aiken, who was famously remade during his time on "Idol," said he was out of his element for the fashion part of "ANTM." "I'm wearing a UNICEF T-shirt and University of Tennessee pajama pants," he said. "I can't judge that."

Except for a temporary gig in New York while performing on Broadway, Aiken has lived in Raleigh for the past three years. Right after "Idol" ended, he lived in Los Angeles, but was unhappy there.

Aiken demurred from answering any questions about his son, Parker Foster Aiken, who was born in August to his friend, Jaymes Foster, and was conceived by in-vitro fertilization. Her brother, music producer David Foster, told AP Radio last week that Aiken is a "spectacular father" and Jaymes is "a natural mother."

Aiken's recording contract with RCA has ended, and he said he's considering other labels, while also looking at stage and television offers.

"All three look enticing, and I'm in the luxurious position of letting them sit down and come to me," he said.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Tyra Banks ANTM America's Next Top Model judge mentor career

GLAAD Honors Tyra

2009-03-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

On March 28th, Tyra Banks was presented with the 'Excellence in Media Award' at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in NYC. Her good friend, Clay Aiken, had the honor of introducing her.

Here is the video of both the speech Clay wrote for presentation of the award to Tyra and Tyra's acceptance speech.

Transcript of Clay's Speech:

Very few women in media ever reach the level of single-name recognition: Madonna, Celine, Dolly, Cher -- all also gay icons. Tonight we honor with the Excellence in Media Award a woman who fits into both categories, Tyra. [inaudible] breaking down barriers from the very start of her career. She made history on the covers of some of the fashion industry's most influential magazines. Who among us didn't want to be with her or ... be her (laughter) when she graced the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue as the very first African American in that position. Her model portfolio has been surpassed only by her extensive multi-media portfolio. Her transition from runway and print to broadcast brought some of America's favorite guilty pleasures in the form of America's Next Top Model -- which has a very good episode next week [points at self] (laughter). It's a show that she both created and executive produces, and she uses it as a platform, not only to help young women achieve their dreams, but also to reinforce the value and importance of hard work and determination in achieving success all the while celebrating outer and inner beauty.

That show is nominated tonight in the category for outstanding reality programing in large part due to Tyra’s refusal to shy away from including diverse models and judges in its cast. Her emmy award wining talk show The Tyra Banks Show has expanded her opportunity to speak to a large an influential audience about self-image and self-worth and countless other causes important to society.

This year that talk show has won 3 out of 5 nominations for outstanding talk show this year bringing the total nominations to 7 in the just 3 years. Nobody would expect less from someone who has been a trailblazer from the start: model, tv host, creator, executive producer. She's one of the hardest working people in the entertainment industry and (something) recognized for it. She was honored by the Hollywood Rreporter as one of the 100 most powerful women in entertainment. Entertainment Weekly called her one of their 25 Smartest in Television and Glamour magazine named her one 2008's Women of the Year alongside Hillary Clinton. And tonight the GLAAD Excellence in Media Award.

This award is given each year to a media professional who increases visibility and understanding of the LGBT community, folks like Glenn Close, Billy Crystal, Diane Sawyer and Phil Donahue. Knowing Tyra, I know that she probably doesn’t think she deserves a recognition like this. Her American’s Next Top Model showcases people like Miss Jay, Jay Manuel, Isis King -- or that guy on next week's show. Yes, her talk show gives air time to some of the issues that our community cares about most, like marriage equality, gay and lesbian people of faith, and transgender people, but Tyra doesn’t necessarily do these things just to make a statement. She doesn’t just address these issue for the impact. She includes, embraces and celebrates because that’s just how she is. Cause she knows it’s right. She doesn’t marginalize, she normalizes. She never sensationalizes or exploits, she just cherishes the value of every human being. Because the only thing bigger than her influence is her heart. Her deep respect for the value of all people has led her to make it part her mission to educate the mainstream public about the lives of gay and transgender people, reaching millions of young people nationwide with her message of inclusion and acceptance.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken GLAAD Tyra Banks Excellence in Media Award Transcript video Red Carpet GLBT

Clay Aiken Honored by Family Equality Council

2009-03-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

Night at the Tavern, Family Equality Council’s annual New York City event will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Tavern on the Green in New York City. The event brings together LGBT parents, friends and allies to celebrate the progress we have made as a community of loving families towards full equality. In 2009, Night at the Tavern will feature a cocktail reception, a full-course seated dinner, live entertainment, a silent auction and the opportunity to mingle with old friends and meet new ones. At the event they will be honoring Platinum Recording Artist Clay Aiken and Director of Center Kids at the LGBT Center in New York Terry Boggis and will have a special guest performance by Linda Eder.

Family Equality Council/Purchase Tickets

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Clay and Tyra: Together Again!

2009-03-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

"To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intellingent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest citizens and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one's self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived - this is to have succeeded." ~~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Clay will be presenting the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards on March 28th in New York City. It is usually broadcast on Bravo or Logo at a later date (after the LA (April) and San Francisco (May) events are held), so keep your fingers crossed.

From BroadwayWorld.com

Actor and singer Clay Aiken will present the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks. The Excellence in Media Award is presented to media professionals who, through their work, have increased the visibility and understanding of the LGBT community. As a long-time ally of the LGBT community, Banks has shown a strong commitment to educating the public about the lives of gay and transgender people. She has consistently featured LGBT people on The Tyra Banks Show and continues to increase the visibility of the community through the diversity of her co-hosts and contestants on America's Next Top Model, including her inclusion of Isis King, the show's first transgender contestant, on the most recently completed cycle. Past recipients include Billy Crystal, Julianne Moore, Diane Sawyer, Glenn Close, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Redgrave, and Phil Donahue.

From GLAAD:

Since establishing her celebrated modeling career in the 1990's, Tyra Banks has become an international media icon. A trailblazer from the start, she has broken down barriers in modeling and entertainment media. In the fashion industry, Banks became the first African American model to grace the covers of GQ and the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, following these achievements with a Michael Award for "Supermodel of the Year," the modeling industry equivalent of the Oscar. After an illustrious modeling career, Banks moved onto television – creating, executive producing and hosting the tremendously successful reality show America's Next Top Model. She also produces and hosts her own Emmy Award-winning talk show, The Tyra Banks Show, which has received seven GLAAD Media Award nominations for Outstanding Talk Show Episode. In spring 2008, Banks appeared on the cover of The New York Times Magazine in a piece titled "Martha, Oprah, Tyra; Is She the Next Big Female Branded Self?" and Entertainment Weekly featured her on the cover saying "America's Next Top Mogul." In the same year, she was honored in Hollywood Reporter's "100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment," Entertainment Weekly's "25 Smartest in Television," Glamour magazine's coveted "Women of the Year," and came in at #1 on Forbes "Primetime TV's Top Earning Women" report.

As a long-time ally of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, Banks has shown a strong commitment to educating the public about the lives of gay and transgender people. She has consistently featured LGBT people on her talk show, and continues to increase the visibility of the community through the diversity of her co-hosts and contestants on America's Next Top Model, including her inclusion of Isis King, the show's first transgender contestant, on the most recent cycle.

The Excellence in Media Award is presented to media professionals who, through their work, have increased the visibility and understanding of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Past recipients include Billy Crystal, Julianne Moore, Diane Sawyer, Glenn Close, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Redgrave, and Phil Donahue.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Tyra Banks, GLAAD Media in Excellence Award presenter LGBT New York City NYC

A New Joint Venture in Summer Learning Programs

2009-03-06T14:03:00.000-08:00

From The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Website:

3/06/2009
MEAF Awards $40,000 Grant to Support Partnership with The Bubel/Aiken Foundation and Johns Hopkins University’s National Center for Summer Learning

RALEIGH, NC – The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) has announced $360,000 in new and continuing grants, raising the total investment in the Foundation’s five-year Inclusion Initiative to $3.2 million. The newest inclusion project is a joint venture between The Bubel/Aiken Foundation (TBAF) and the National Center for Summer Learning at Johns Hopkins University.

Building on a three-year partnership, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation and the National Center for Summer Learning will create a distinct and powerful new force for change in the field of summer learning for all children, especially those with disabilities. The partners will expand access to high-quality, inclusive summer learning opportunities for young people by developing a summer learning curriculum to help summer camps fully include youth with disabilities.

Research suggests that inclusive summer learning programs can prevent summer learning loss and promote academic achievement for all children and youth, foster positive relationships between children with and without disabilities and adults, and promote improved peer relationships and acceptance of diversity.

“We are very pleased to incorporate this project into our Inclusion Initiative, expanding inclusion outreach to the critical area of summer learning,” said Rayna Aylward, MEAF’s executive director. “The Bubel/Aiken Foundation and the National Center for Summer Learning add valuable experience and focus to the inclusion mix, and their collaboration will enrich the lives of many thousands of youth with and without disabilities.”

About MEAF: Established in 1991, Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation is the corporate foundation of the Mitsubishi Electric companies in the US, which makes grants to support national nonprofit organizations and works to engage company employees in philanthropy and volunteerism in Mitsubishi Electric communities through its matching grants program. The Foundation’s mission is to help young people with disabilities maximize their potential and participation in society. For more information about the foundation visit www.meaf.org.

About TBAF: The Bubel/Aiken Foundation serves to bridge the gap that exists between young people with special needs and the world around them. By providing services and financial assistance, TBAF supports communities and programs in creating awareness and opportunities for full inclusion where barriers break and doors open. It is their goal to create an environment for children where inclusion is embraced. To learn more about The Bubel/Aiken Foundation or ways to get involved visit their website at www.bubelaiken.org.

About the National Center for Summer Learning at Johns Hopkins University: The vision of the National Center for Summer Learning is for every young person to experience enriching, memorable summers. Based at the Johns Hopkins University School of Education, the Center engages in research, develops policy, and delivers professional development to improve program quality, increase funding for programs for young people living in poverty, and make summer learning a public policy priority. The Center focuses national attention on how high-quality summer learning programs help close the achievement gap, lead to higher graduation rates, and promote healthy development. For more information, visit www.summerlearning.org.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Grant John Hopkins University Summer Learning Program inclusion disabilities special needs Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation

A Wildcard To Remember

2009-03-04T09:42:00.000-08:00

After four seasons without a wildcard show, American Idol is bringing it back in Season 8 tomorrow night. It will be slightly different than Seasons 2 and 3, with no America's Choice wildcard voted through by viewers this year.(Note: Clay Aiken was America's Choice in Season 2, and Jon-Peter Lewis was America's Choice in Season 3.) It's a shame the producers eliminated America's Choice because that was the best part of the Wild Card show. Now it's just a judges' choice show, and does anyone really think that American Idol is anything but a big judges' choice show anyhow with the pre-competition screen time, singing order, and manipulated judges' comments. Of course, when the best America's Choice was already chosen, why bother with more. *g*

~Graphic by fountaindawg~

Here is Clay capturing the heart of America with his powerful version of "Don't Let The Sun Go Down on Me" on the Wildcard Show.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Wild Card American Idol Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me America's Choice

The Next Step

2009-02-28T15:13:00.001-08:00

Now that Clay Aiken is free from those RCA chains, where will he go? Will there be a major to sign him or will he want to retain more control over his music? Due to the changing landscape of the music industry there is no easy answer. Listening to this interview from Fred Croshal, Founder and CEO, Croshal Entertainment Group discussing his business model for releasing music. Artists become the masters of their destinies instead of some suit in an office who is more concerned with boxing and packaging someone to meet some preconceived defintion of whatever they want to market.

Fred Croshal CEO, Croshal Entertainment Group talks with Caroline Little, CEO of Guardian Media, North America.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Croshal Entertainment Group Fred Croshal Independent Music

Spotlight Video: Independent

2009-02-25T12:58:00.000-08:00

Terrific montage set to Clay singing "Kyrie" during the Independent Tour.

Lyrics:

The wind blows hard against this mountainside
Across the sea into my soul
It reaches into where I cannot hide
Setting my feet upon the road

My heart is old it holds my memories
My baby burns a gemlike flame
Somewhere between the soul and soft machine
Is where I find myself again

Kyrie Eleison
Down the road that I must travel
Kyrie Eleison
Through the darkness of the night
Kyrie Eleison
Where I'm going will you follow
Kyrie Eleison
On a highway in the light

When I was young I thought of growing old
Of what my life would mean to me
Would I have followed down my chosen road
Or only wished what I could be

Montage by SueRu

Free at last indeed.

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Free Bird

2009-02-20T16:50:00.000-08:00

Graphic by fountaindawg

This is the way,
That i state my independence,
That i'm no longer connected to your memory.
This is the day that i'm making my defection
~From "No More Sad Songs~

Are the fans mourning the parting of the ways between RCA and Clay Aiken? Heck No! It's about time because RCA never appreciated Clay's talent, or promoted his music properly. He was little more than a cash cow. No matter where he ends up--another label or independent--things can only be better because they surely couldn't have been much worse. RCA literally squandered Clay's early success and popularity by sticking him with a covers album and catering almost exclusively to the "Claymates", a term, by the way, that at least half the fandom hates.

From People:

The rumors started when his likeness was removed from his record's Web site and now Clay Aiken is setting the record straight: the former American Idol has parted ways with RCA Records, Aiken's rep has confirmed exclusively to PEOPLE.

"We were unable to come to terms in a recent contract negotiation, and decided that it was best to move on," the rep, Cindi Berger, said Friday.
The buzz about Aiken's exit was fueled earlier week when his picture disappeared online and Billboard, citing unnamed sources, reported Friday that Aiken, 30, had been dropped by the label.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken RCA

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Awards Grant to the Special Kids Crusade

2009-02-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

From The Californian:

A new grant announced today will give disabled in Monterey County a chance to learn and play with their peers in an all-inclusive social setting.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation awarded $15,000 to the Special Kids Crusade to introduce Let’s ALL Play, a recreational after-school program being developed in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County.

The grant will allow children with developmental disabilities to enjoy a social recreational experience in an inclusive setting.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation has been developing its Let’s ALL Play Program since 2004.

Today, the Foundation supports 29 recreational programs across the country.

Through the Let’s ALL Play Program, the Foundation supports recreational programs in their efforts to implement inclusion by providing a program model, funding, and training.

Let’s ALL Play helps bring an inclusive recreational experience to children with disabilities.

It gives children with developmental disabilities the same experience as those without.

Children with disabilities and their peers who are typically developing come together to participate in recreational activities such as games, arts and crafts, physical fitness, science and technology, and more.

Online: www.specialkidscrusade.org

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Grant Let's All Play inclusion disabilities needs

The Winning Bear

2009-02-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Spamalot for having the winning bid in the Broadway Cares Bear Auction. Signed by Clay, the Sir Robin bear raised $16,000 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. Not bad considering the economy. The Spamalot bear in the 2008 Broadway Cares auction, also a Sir Robin bear and signed by both Clay and the originator of the Sir Robin role, went for $17,000.

Here are the winning bids on the bears:

Sir Robin (Spamalot) - $16,000
Alan Strang and Nugget (Equus) - $10,000
Glinda (Wicked) - $7,000
Growltiger (Cats) - $5,500
Billy Elliot - $4,000
Tommy Walker (The Who's Tommy) - $4,000
Ashley (Starlight Express) - $3,800
Betty Haynes (White Christmas) - $3,700
Shrek - $3,600
Zach (A Chorus Line) - $3,600
The Child Catcher (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) - $3,400
Brother Bear (I.A.T.S.E) - $3,400
Sir Thomas More (A Man For All Seasons) - $3,400
He/She Masquerade (The Phantom of the Opera) - $2,800
Rose (Gypsy, 2003) - $2,400
Bernardo (West Side Story) - $2,200
Kira (Xanadu) - $2,900
Usnavi (In the Heights)- $2,600
Countess Aurelia (Dear World) - $2,400
Annie Oakley (Annie Get Your Gun) - $2,400
Elle Woods (Legally Blonde)
Edith Herbert (My One and Only) - $2,200
The Eggbeater (Beauty and the Beast) - $2,000
Edna Turnblad (Hairspray) - $1,900
Mimi (Rent) - $1,800
Tank Showgirl (The Producers) - $1,700
The Drowsy Chaperone - $1,700
Mother Abbess (The Sound of Music) - $1,700
Nellie Forbush (South Pacific) - $1,600
Wendy Darling (Peter Pan) - $1,600
Bird Woman (Mary Poppins) - $1,600
Merlyn (Camelot) - $1,600
Elizabeth (Young Frankenstein) - $1,400
Ethel Merman/Little Orphan Annie (Forbidden B'way) - $1,200
Uncle Sam (State Fair) - $1,200
Wendla (Spring Awakening) - $1,100
Rose (Gypsy 1959) - $1,100
Evillene (The Wiz) - $1,100
Ariel (The Little Mermaid) - $1,000
Christmas Eve (Avenue Q) - $1,000
Louise (Gypsy 200 - $1,000
Gabriella (Boeing-Boeing) - $900
Linus (You're A Good Man Charlie Brown) - $700

Eva Peron doll (Evita) - $700
Agnes Gooch (Mame) - $600

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Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T06:03:00.001-08:00

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All You Ever Needed to Know About Valentine's Day

2009-02-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

Graphic by pixieglitter

The facts behind the holiday we celebrate with chocolates and flowers. Or if we're really lucky, with a Clay Aiken appearance on Jimmy Kimmel. *g*

From History.com:

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.

According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who may have been his jailor's daughter — who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial — which probably occurred around 270 A.D — others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to 'christianize' celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.

To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.

The boys then sliced the goat's hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goathide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D. The Roman 'lottery' system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February — Valentine's Day — should be a day for romance. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine's Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.

According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)

Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.

Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap".

In honor of the Valentine's Day, don't miss this montage by Yollie950 of some very special moments.

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The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Awards Grant to Dancing Wheels Company and School

2009-02-02T10:02:00.000-08:00

In the 2008/2009 season, The Dancing Wheels Company received a significant award from The Bubel/Aiken Foundation to help fulfill their mission of creating communities where ALL children can learn, live, and play together. The Dancing Wheels Company was one of over 100 applicants selected this year to promote the Foundation's mission of inclusion.

The Dancing Wheels Company has long been recognized for its award winning, fully integrated in school assembly and residency programs across the nation. Through an artistic approach, the Company dispels myths about disability and the arts and creates an entertaining and valuable message to thousands of children with and without disabilities each year throughout America. The Bubel/Aiken Foundation was established in 2003 to promote the full inclusion of children with special needs into the mainstream of society. The Foundation was established by Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel, a mother of a child with autism. The two met while Clay was pursuing his career in special education. The Bubel family and Clay witnessed the everyday isolation and exclusion of children with disabilities. Many camps, summer programs and extracurricular school activities do not have the means or structure to include children with intellectual, sensory or physical disabilities thereby excluding these children from participation. Aiken and the Bubel family felt that it was necessary not only to create awareness about inclusion but to also create and foster unique programming to include children of all abilities in education, recreation and family activities. Today the Foundation has developed Let痴 ALL Play, a K-12 Service Learning Curriculum, and a children痴 book Our Friend Mikayla, as well as supporting other organizations that bring about inclusion.

The Dancing Wheels Company has utilized this funding to reach out to schools that would not otherwise have the financial means for such in-school and after school programming. The Company has embraced schools throughout Ohio and will be expanding its offer to schools throughout the nation. To date the Company has served over 1,200 students with and without disabilities with the Bubel/Aiken funding.

In 2009, The Dancing Wheel Company will have ongoing residencies with Barrett Academy, a school with multiply disabled children in Akron Ohio and Hands That Speak Volumes, an after school program for teens who are deaf which will be conducted in the Dancing Wheels studios in Cleveland. These children and teens will have the unique opportunity discover for the first time the freeing experience of dance and movement. The children will also have the added benefits of developing a skill that will eventually allow them to participate in other social events (such as dances or parties) that are fully inclusive. They will feel comfortable with their new-found skills and the social interaction that music and dance can bring.

Mary Verdi-Fletcher, President Founding Artistic Director of The Dancing Wheels Company and Jerry Aiken, Executive Director of the Bubel/Aiken Foundation collaborated on how to reach even more children in the future. “The connection and mission of the two organizations are incredibly close,“ said Mary Verdi-Fletcher. “When Jerry and I began to talk, our shared values and desire to bring equality to children with disabilities were so strong that we knew that we would be a winning team.”

For more information on the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, visit their website at www.bubelaiken.org, and The Dancing Wheels Company & School or to apply for The Dancing Wheels Company to visit your school, please call (216) 432-0306 or visit www.dancingwheels.org

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation Grant Dancing Wheels modern dance inclusion disabilities special needs

This Magic Moment

2009-02-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

Right now Clay is off doing who knows what--spending some time with his son, working on his career, working on UNICEF, working on TBAF, getting some R&R, all of them, some of them. In the meantime, we have the memories to tide us over. Here are some fan favorites--the most magic of them all:

Opening Night, First Time Ever, Rock Star Mystery Entrance on Kyrie!!!--Feb 24, 2004 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Coliseum.
Standing in a GIANT circle in the dark for the bus line in San Diego while Clay and Jerome walked around the inside of the circle and everyone stayed in place and waited their turn.
Clay talking to the audience, "...because God forbid the Clack skip around. Yeah, I know your words".
Magical Clay moment was singing "Measure of a Man" to him in Wilkes Barre, PA.
During the American Idol concert, the jumbotron had stuff going on before the show and every time Clay's name or picture or a song came up the audience went totally nuts.
Singing Beautiful Star of Bethlehem to his grandpa in Raleigh during the JNT.
The night in Sterling Heights when Clay and Quiana sang "Listen".
Magical moment for me was when I watched him sing "Good News" live at San Diego JNT2. He was standing 10 feet directly in front of me, and to watch him go to that special place when he sings to God, well, it was almost ethereal. I'll never forget it.
Magical but scary moment was JNT on Long Island. Day one of three shows with vertigo. Watching him grip that stool and stagger off stage showed the true Measure of a Man.
When Clay walked out on stage at Toms River for the first Juke Box Tour concert. I don't know if it was as much magical as mind blowing. It really took a few seconds to really believe that the guy with the black leather jacket strutting out there was really Clay Aiken.
Singing "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" at the Beacon Theatre at one of the JNT concerts. So sensual and sultry...
Clay’s final Spamalot performance on May 4, 2008 when Clay was spotted on the balcony.
All is Well...Merrillville...the whole audience just sat there holding its collective breath and when he hit the note...I have never heard a roar of applause like that in my life...it definitely was a once in a lifetime moment.
"The First Noel" at the Beacon Theater on the Sunday performance. The Aiken Random Lyric Generator kicked in... he covered it up with an amazing grace and power....and we applauded...and he looked like the cat who ate the canary. He usually stopped it...by pringing and the reading would start up again...but this time he couldn't recover...and we just gave him the love...and he took it all in...and sent love to us...and we sent love to him....closed circle.
Singing "I Can't Make You Love Me" at Clio when the audience was so silent and he sang the full song for the first time.
When Clay sang "Right Here Waiting" at the Gala in Raleigh.
Many fans singing "Faith has conquered fear" with Clay at the Raleigh Gala
When Clay sang Lover All Alone in Rochester NY. We could hear his amazing voice and the pouring rain.
When he appeared on Good Morning America the morning that Measure of a Man was released - he looked so gorgeous, sang so beautifully and he was so full of hope.
When Clive presented him with his MOAM double platinum award on GMA. What an incredible moment for him and for his fans as well. That was a moment of pure joy and happiness. Someone wrote on the boards that day - "this was his confetti moment, the moment he was cheated out of on the AI2 finale." And it truly was.
The moment I'll never forget was when Clay signaled to Jamie to come help him up from the stool at the Long Island JNaT. He truly left it all on the stage with us, and could not even stand up on his own to walk off. That was....well, it just defies description.

and my favorite magic moment

The first (non-paparazzi) picture we had of Clay with his newborn son. It's wasn't the best picture of Clay since People airbrushed the living daylights of the picture--not a freckle in sight--but the sight of Clay as a Dad knowing how much he wanted that was one of my very favorite moments.

Here is a little pictorial of the moments fans consider magical:

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Golfing for Inclusion: The Photos

2009-01-29T13:32:00.000-08:00

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Golfing for Inclusion TBAF Bubel/Aiken Foundation fundraiser photos Mirasol Palm Beach

Six Years and Counting

2009-01-28T06:02:00.000-08:00

Today is the 6th anniversary of "Take"--the first time many of us heard Clay sing in the Atlanta audition episode on American Idol. To commemorate the occasion, here is this lovely retrospective montage by hosaa:

For other wonderful blogs on Clay Aiken, visit Carolina On My Mind and Clayigraphy: In Honor of the Sixth Anniversary of "Take"....

********************************************************************************

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Atlanta Audition Take Somewhere Over the Rainbow montage retrospective American Idol

Golfing for Inclusion: The Performances

2009-01-27T10:16:00.000-08:00

Here are the promised performance videos from yesterday's charity benefit:

Vocals by Clay Aiken and Ben Cohn on piano

~I Don't Have The Heart to Hurt You~

~This Is The Moment~

~Right Here Waiting~

~Proud of Your Boy~

~Mandy~

~Sorry Seems to be the Hardest World~

Among the many auction items was a dinner for four with Clay which went for an amazing $35,000. Awesome.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Ben Cohn Golfing for Inclusion TBAF Bubel-Aiken Foundation fundraiser video performances I Don't Have the Heart Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word Mandy Proud of Your Boy Right Here Waiting This Is The Moment

Golfing for Inclusion

2009-01-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

Hot off the presses pictures from the golf course at Mirasol Country Club where The Bubel-Aiken Foundation is holding their second annual Golfing for Inclusion. First up golf, then dinner, an auction, and a performance by Clay in the early evening.

Clay is traveling around on a golf cart visiting with the golfers and taking group pictures. Stay tuned for more reports and hopefully some performance video.

Tags: Clay Aiken Golfing for Inclusion TBAF Bubel-Aiken Foundation fundraiser

Small Steps to a Bigger Problem

2009-01-23T13:44:00.001-08:00

From One.org:

I’m Clay Aiken, and I am a UNICEF Ambassador.

The U.S. Fund for UNICEF is proud to be a partner of ONE. ONE has mobilized millions of Americans to speak up about the importance of tackling global poverty – saving and improving lives around the world.

I’ve had a chance to see many wonderful children, full of laughter and hope, in even the poorest places around the world. And I’ve seen the incredible work of UNICEF to help those children and their families survive and thrive. But I have also seen children sick and dying from lack of basic nutrition and medicines. And I cannot forget that despite UNICEF’s work, 25,000 children die every day, mostly from preventable causes. I believe that number should be “zero”– no child dying unnecessarily.

All of us can help to save children’s lives – individuals, nonprofits, corporations, and governments.

So I am asking President Barack Obama to launch a Presidential Initiative to Accelerate Child Survival. And I am asking YOU to join me, by signing a petition to the President.

ONE supporters care about helping the most vulnerable people on our planet. Please join me in telling the next President of the United States that Americans want him to make global child survival a top priority. For more information and to sign the petition, go to:
http://volunteers.unicefusa.org/activities/advocate/presidential-initiative-to.html.

-Clay Aiken, UNICEF Ambassador

Also visit Tap.org

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken UNICEF Tap Project one.org global poverty nutrition water child survival Obama

Montage of the Day: An Obama Love Story

2009-01-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

In honor of the inauguration of our 44th President, here is a montage dedicated to the First Couple. The creator of this montage was contacted by the Inaugural committee for permission to play it at one of the balls.

~"Something About Us" performed by Clay Aiken~

~~Lyrics~~

Something About Us

Stop the music, play the song
We'll dance together all night long
The spotlight glows, somehow it knows,
That there's something about us
Something about us

People smile when they walk by
There's too much magic to deny
A fool can see we're meant to be
'cause there's something about us,
Something about us

The words on every poet's tongue
Every love song ever sung
About us, it's about us
From Romeo and Juliet,
To plays they haven't written yet
It's old and new, it's a classic tale of two
Of our perfectly perfect love

You can see it in our ways
In how we spend our nights and days
A crazy laugh, a photograph
There's just something about
Something about us

The words on every poet's tongue
Every love song ever sung
About us, it's about us
From Romeo and Juliet,
To plays they haven't written yet
It's old and new, it's a classic tale of two
Of our perfectly perfect love

So stop the music, play the song
And we'll dance together all night long
We'll reminisce of moments like this
Cause there's something about us
Something about us
Yes, there something about us..

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The Cluben Lives

2009-01-18T14:11:00.000-08:00

Clay went to Ruben's show, Ain't Misbehavin', in Greensboro last night. Here's a lovely photo of Ruben and Clay looking not too much different than they did in 2003.

~2009~

~2003~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Ruben Studdard Ain't Misbehavin' Greensboro

2008: What a Year!

2009-01-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

As we are starting a new year, I look back on 2008 as a time of change within the fandom. We've been on this road with Clay for over five years, and it's never been an easy path, but the best things in life aren't easy or handed to you on a silver platter. We experienced the highs of success and the lows of unfilled expectations. As a fandom, we've laughed, cried and had fun together. The fandom has forged individual friendships that go beyond Clay Aiken. Not all the faces and online names are the same or perhaps even quite as many, but for those of us still here, the best it yet to come.

Professionally in 2008, Clay Aiken took Broadway by storm, released a beautiful, personal (if under-promoted album), went to a dangerous and war-torn Somalia for UNICEF, and raised a lot of money for both The Bubel-Aiken Foundation and Broadway Cares. 2008 has been perhaps the most freeing and happiest year personally for Clay Aiken. He and his dear friend, Jaymes Foster had a beautiful baby boy, he decided to satisfy the invasive curiosity of the media and told us that he is indeed gay, and hopefully has found romantic love. That's a lot for one year, but what the heck, Clay has always been a multi-tasker. One thing is evident, there is an aura of happiness--genuine happiness, not a switch he throws on for the public--about the man these days. It suits him.

I was going to do a timeline respective for 2008, but others have done them much better than I could. Check out ClaySpots for a great timeline. Instead I bring a few of my favorites moments and photos from the year.

An Extraordinary Man

And for a another look at 2008, here is a fantastic montage by the talented Suz4:

~My Favorite Things: 2008~

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Discovered Treasures

2009-01-10T06:58:00.000-08:00

Two more video surfaced for songs from A Thousand Different Ways. RCA must have recorded several videos (let's face it--they didn't cost a helluva lot) before deciding on which song to release as a single. As we know, they decided on "Without You" which, while a great song that Clay song the shanitz out of, was probably the wrong choice since it is so well-known.

~These Open Arms~

~Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word~

Clay Aiken video These Open Arms Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word

All Good Things Come To An End

2009-01-08T06:16:00.000-08:00

Photo Montage by fountaindawg

On January 4th Clay Aiken played his last performance playing Sir Robin after 123 performances in his first run and 110.5 in his second run. The Shubert Theatre full of love from cast, crew, and fans alike. Alas, the end of the Spamalot Broadway era is coming to an end for good. January 11th the lights will dim for Spamalot for the last time. I wouldn't be surprised at a revival of this wonderful show somewhere down the line.

From the boards:

I have to mention the huge applause that greeted ALL the cast members when they first appeared on stage. It was amazing and they were eating it up. When Tom came on to start the introduction, the applause was deafening and it was hysterical. He waved at the audience, which made everyone crack up. When the LOTL walked out to do here "Diva's Lament", she was again greeted with applause and she said "Thank you", in a funny way, and which she has never said before, and we all cracked up agaiin. It just continued like that all evening and was a big hoot.

The overture started. Tom/historian got such a loud applause when he entered. It was hillarious. The show felt like family tonight. It was very different from how it felt on Friday where it was more NJU and not even people familiar with the play Spamalot. Today it felt like people saying inside jokes to one another...only they weren't inside jokes...they were the jokes in the play itself and we all knew them...and we were relishing them. It's so hard to explain. Everybody when they came out got huge applause. It was love given to the whole cast. But Tom got so bemused with the applause that was so loud and wouldn't stop.
Clay? What can I say. There was love in that theater tonight. When his cute head popped out of that tower he got the loving...the applause was pretty dang loud. I don't know if there was anything "special" so much as the cast was loose and doing practical jokes on Clay...like not pulling him back to stop him yodeling on All For One. He got thunderous applause for Idol of my age...and it was the first time for the Redux that I couldn't hear the next lines...and the golden larynx line at all.

Oh our Dear Robin!!! Huge standing O at the end. We did show him the love and he did smile as he stood there with damp messy wonderful Clay hair.

The house lights dimmed... a warning about cell phones was given (yeah, right!)... the trumpet player was ‘shot’ which elicited a somewhat nervous laugh from the audience. We all knew that this was going to be special... little did we know HOW special!

The Historian walked out on stage and the applause erupted... he let us ‘get it out of our systems’ for a bit (yeah, right!) and then motioned us to silence. The curtain was raised and David received enthusiastic applause to show him our appreciation. We heard the clip clop signifying the arrival of King Arthur who was showered in applause as well. We held our collective breath as we knew that Clay’s appearance in the tower was imminent... and then... there he was... The theatre exploded with our applause... we were allowed but a few seconds of it and the show went on. When Rick appeared, the same love shown David was bestowed upon him.

When Bradley declared that he is a man... we showed him our love... and when Merle emerged from the ‘lake’ she was greeted by our enthusiastic applause as well.

Then came the ‘introduction’ of the knights... when Sir Robin joined the line-up of knights... the applause simply would not die down... so he shrugged, walked back into the wings and reappeared a few seconds later, to our obvious delight... The Historian acknowledged that we were certainly all aware of Sir Robin’s prowess but felt he should deliver the line anyways... While all this was going on, poor Patsy could not contain his guffaws!!! When Clay hit the high note of the yodeling, Lancelot and Galahad left him hanging and did not pull him back which resulted in Clay holding that note for a good long time until he backed up of his own volition once he realized that they were not going to pull him back!

And then the magic of YWSOB happened... Clay was simply magnificent... Put new little twists and intonations here and there even then, his last show!!!!! After shushing us, he walked to the piano, gingerly sat down, making very sure that the lift of his tabard did not reveal anything of his backside... he waited for the unavoidable AWWWWWWWWWWWWWs, turned around and gave us a ‘Gotcha’ look... priceless!!!! When he finished his number, four or five brave souls in the audience stood up and within seconds, Clay had a full standing ovation that went on and on and on.... The King and Patsy both had these goofy grins on and looked on Clay with this almost paternal pride... Clay in the meantime was making coocoo gestures to show the King that we are crazy... Yes Clay, we ARE crazy... crazy about you!!!!

By the time final curtain call started, the entire audience was standing, so the girls from the ensemble came out on stage to find us on our feet, letting them know that they too have been embraced by Clay’s fans... When the guys came out, a few of them had surprised looks on their faces but they hammed it up and soaked it up... Every character cast member received proof of our appreciation for an outstanding run on Broadway... When the LOTL came out, she took her bow and motioned us: “Just a minute!” and... then Clay appeared without his wig... No longer Brave Sir Robin, but our dear Clay... as much as the Shubert may have erupted before... now we simply blew the roof off!!!! Clay ever gracious... refused to let us go on and started the ALOTBSOL... At the end, he reached into the orchestra pit and shook the conductor’s hand – he is one class act!!!!

Yes, I think a good time was had by all.

So now, Broadway is at an end for now. Until we meet again.

Waving goodbye to fans one last time from ledge of the Shubert.

Spotlight Video: Good-bye Sir Robin by luluasst

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Broadway Shubert Theater Closing Night Montage Finale Fans

Spotlight Video: Year in Review 2008

2009-01-01T06:44:00.000-08:00

It's been quite the year for Clay and the fandom. Here is a wonderful retrospective montage by Dreamlarge:

and a wonderful retrospective picture montage by fountaindawg:

or to view in large size, please click the thumbnail, and then click again when image appears:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken 2008 Review montage

Another Passion

2008-12-28T06:59:00.000-08:00

Clay was interviewed by Geraldo Rivera for his program on the waiting list crisis for people with intellectual disabilities in an hour-long news special. Clay spoke about the start of his foundation, and his passion for working toward inclusion for children with special needs. Here is the video of his segment:

For more information on The Bubel-Aiken Foundation, visit their website at http://www.bubelaiken.org/

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Geraldo Rivera The Waiting List FOX News Geraldo at Large Inclusion Bubel Aiken Foundation Children Special Needs Foundation

TV Alert

2008-11-21T15:26:00.000-08:00

Time to set the DVR

Upcoming Clay Aiken appearances:

Wednesday, November 26 Clay will be appearing on the Rosie Live Variety Hour, 8:00 PM

From Playbill.com

Additional guests stars have been announced for the eagerly awaited debut of Rosie O'Donnell's television variety show, "Rosie Live," which will air Nov. 26 at 8 PM ET live from New York's Little Shubert Theatre.

As previously announced, the holiday special will boast the talents of Alec Baldwin, Liza Minnelli, Ne-Yo, Alanis Morissette, Kathy Griffin and Jane Krakowski. Newly announced talent includes Elmo, Rachael Ray, Harry Connick Jr., Anti-Gravity with the Lombard Twins, Clay Aiken and Gloria Estefan.

The one-hour special, according to press notes, will feature "an unparalleled array of celebrity guests and musical performances, comedic skits and one of a kind games for the in-studio and at home audience. This spectacular show concludes with a massive primetime giveaway where the home and studio audience has a chance to win remarkable prizes. . . Rosie will kick off the hour doing what she does best — sounding off about current events, pop culture and whatever is on her mind."

and on Thanksgiving, Clay will be on the CBS Broadcast of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade.

From Playbill.com

CBS' "Thanksgiving Day Parade" Broadcast to Feature Mary Poppins, Grease and Aiken

By Andrew Gans
November 13, 2008

"The Early Show" hosts Dave Price and Maggie Rodriguez will anchor "The Thanksgiving Day Parade on CBS," which will air live Nov. 27 on CBS 9 AM-noon ET.

The Thanksgiving special will feature the 82nd annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade as well as performances by the Broadway casts of Mary Poppins and Grease as well as the country music duo Sugarland.

"American Idol" finalist Clay Aiken, back on Broadway in Monty Python's Spamalot, and CBS daytime drama stars Jessica Leccia ("Guiding Light") and Julie Pinson ("As The World Turns") will chat with Price and Rodriguez during the broadcast. Patrick Warburton will also offer a "Man on the Street" viewpoint as he reports and interacts with the parade crowd.

Emmy Award-winning producers Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss ("The Tony Awards") are executive producers of the telecast; Weiss will also direct.

As previously announced, several Broadway musicals and stars will be featured during the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, which will be broadcast live on NBC-TV Nov. 27 beginning at 9 AM ET.

According to a Macy's spokesperson, the annual parade will boast performances from the casts of Irving Berlin's White Christmas (performing a medley of "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm" and "White Christmas"), In the Heights (performing the title song), South Pacific (singing "There Is Nothing Like a Dame") and The Little Mermaid (performing "Under the Sea").

Also of interest to theatre fans: The cast of the forthcoming revival of Hair will belt out "Aquarius" atop the New York Tin Toy float; Tony winner Kristin Chenoweth will sing "The Christmas Waltz" on The Care Bears Winter Fun-derland float; and Tony winner Idina Menzel will offer "I Stand" on the M&M's on Broadway float.

The parade will conclude with members of Camp Broadway — joined by Kermit the Frog — performing "I Believe in Santa Claus." A group of 300 kids, ages 10-17, will sing the tune, which was penned by Wesley Whatley and Bill Schermerhorn, Macy's creative director.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken TV television Rosie O'Donnell variety Thanksgiving Macy's Parade CBS

Spotlight Video: Sweet Parker

2008-11-15T05:50:00.000-08:00

Sometimes our hearts get tangled
And our souls a little off-kilter
Friends and family can set us right
And help guide us back to the light.
~Sera Christann

Don't miss this moving montage of a brand new family.

~~Montage by mariedrummond1~
~Song: My Baby You by Marc Anthony~

For a blog full of information on Clay Aiken, visit Carolina On My Mind.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Parker Jaymes Foster family montage GMA Good Morning America

A Family Portrait: Lookin' Like My Dad

2008-11-13T05:23:00.000-08:00

We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.
— Joseph Campbell

This beautiful family picture was shown on the Dr. Phil show that featured David Foster. From the transcript:

From the transcript:

“You have a sister, Jaymes,” Dr. Phil says to David. “And she and Clay Aiken had a baby together named Parker.”

Dr. Phil shows a photo of Jaymes and pop singer Clay Aiken with their child.

“Isn’t that great? They took that picture yesterday, just for this show, and you know, Jaymes was married for 20-odd years and never had any children, always felt that she wanted to, and they found a beautiful way to be a family. And it’s no secret what’s going on with the three of them, but they’re going to be great parents together, and it’s a great thing,” David says.

The little cutie is now three months old and starting to look a lot like his dad with the reddish hair and cute little ears. Parker is a lucky little boy to be so wanted and so loved. If only every child were as lucky the world would be a better place.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Parker Jaymes Foster family picture

Spotlight Video: That's What it's All About

2008-11-02T06:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun montage that showcases some of the best of Clay Aiken. *g*

~~Montage by Luluasst~~
~Hokey Pokey performed by Brave Combo~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Montage Hokey Pokey Brave Combo

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

Halloween Montage

~Montage by Yollie950~

Technorati Tags:
Clay Aiken
Halloween
montage

Can You Feel The Love?

2008-10-21T05:36:00.000-07:00

Fan recaps of the Gala Weekend are trickling in on the message boards. Here's a bit of the sampling of the reactions:

I just know that this gala was the single most amazing Clay experience I ever had (other than my M&G). I have been to Spam opening and closing. I have seen over 40 concerts. I saw QVC and R&big mouth. This just blew me away. Not because it was so important to Clay but because I needed to see Clay as Clay for me. And, I will tell you that I never, ever loved him more. Gay, shmay. He is one hot man. And loving, caring, passionate, and funny. He has it all and aren't we lucky that we found him? Don't I feel sad for those who haven't?

The Gala was wonderful, he was adorable, funny, snarky, handsome. I don't have enough adjectives to describe him!! My face still hurts from smiling. The auction was fun to watch & he was so excited to see how much the items sold for! His voice was just awesome!

This was one of the best Clay events I have ever attended. Or maybe they just keep getting better.

As has been noted, nothing has changed about how Clay acts with the fans. Nothing. He’s the same gorgeous, silly, wonderful, snarky, smart ass we’ve known and loved for nearly 6 years now

The moments in "On My Way Here" were very emotional (did I mention that there was crying?) and of course by the time he had finished "Right Here Waiting" (the song whose status changed drastically for a lot of us last night, I think!) we were both exuberant and drained and oh so incredibly grateful. I remember thinking over and over how fortunate I was to be there and literally said to myself after every song that that one alone had been worth the ticket price.

This was my first Gala and my first chance to see him in his "salesman moving the merchandise" mode for the chirren. He and the auctioneer, as you've seen, made a great team and sidesplittingly funny. Shamelessly working the room, milking it relentlessly for every dollar. Clay really looked to be having the time of his life. Modeling the leather jacket, making the bear dance, offering up his "stool" with the appropriate mock grimace. Flirting. Exhorting. Cajoling. And it was so much fun and so exciting to watch the bidding war over the top items.

About midway through "Right Here Waiting for You", I thought I was the only one with tears streaming down my face and sniffling, but then I realized I was hearing sniffling and sobbing all around me. In case you're wondering, the little ripple of laughter at the very end of "Right Here Waiting" was slightly embarrassed laughter at ourselves as the sobbing was just as audible as Clay's tender voice as he sang the last phrase of "Right Here Waiting" without the mike. (And the beauty, purity and texture of his unamplied voice...truly every bit as beautiful and transcendent as the finest instrument ever made).
For me, it felt like we had gone back to our roots. Clay even looked so much like he did back in 2003/2004 when he first mezmerized us and cast us underneath his spell. I saw so many of those early gestures and nuances and passion. It reminded me of why I first fell in love with him. (Yep, I said, "in love"...deal with it!). It was so eerie but so right. Whatever the degree of wondering each of us may have gone through about "is Clay still Clay", I say the answer is a blessedly, resounding YES! Even for those who didn't have that doubt or concern, what a treasure it was to be reminded and be able to relive that magic again. Last night was like the perfect mixture of Clay of the past AND present...old look, new songs. Totally cool, freaky and somehow right.

There has never been anything like the love between Clay and his fans and you could feel that love flowing back and forth...and around... between us, too, the friends he has given us..

Clay is a professional entertainer, but one that actually has a giving and loving heart, and one that loves each and every fan. Everything that has led him to this moment in his life began with "us". His emotional rendition of "Right Here Waiting" only touches on what he was trying to say and I can only say that I believe Clay knows and deeply appreciates all the love and support we have given since the beginning....for without that solid beginning, there may not have been that fateful meeting with Jaymes, which has led Clay to the happiest and most fullfilling time in his life.

Now, I'm not an easy crier, it really takes something for me to tear up. But-- omg that was one emotional night! I was so embarrassed when I started crying during Right Here Waiting-- but, as I was desperately searching for a tissue in my teeny worthless but pretty purse, *g*, I began to hear it-- a sniffle here, a stifled sob there-- and knew I wasn't alone. I was so proud of him, and so thrilled for him! I know he felt the love, it was a palpable entity-- and I'm so glad I was there to share it with him and everyone else there

The reality of the moment is really more then I can probably convey with mere words. The love that was flowing in that room, from him to us and back, was beyond anything I have felt in a Clay setting. There are times I wonder if I imagined it, but then I see others commenting on the same thing, so I guess I wasnt the only one. I will always remember this weekend, it will be very hard for him to top, but Im willing to let him try and I sure as heck plan on being there when he does.

I can say with all honesty that being in that room Saturday night was, without doubt, one of the most wonderful experiences I have ever had as a Clay fan. There was such electricity, love, and true emotion in the ballroom of the Marriott. Clay was the same Clay he has always been. He offered his love and caring and we gave it back to him. It was truly amazing.

I know he stripped himself naked with the People article and the blog and the thread at the OFC. But saturday night, in that few minutes, he bared himself, he bared his soul. That was one of the greatest acts of courage i have ever been a witness too

All I know is this man is firmly entrenched in my heart and in some strange way we are all also there in his. I don't know him--he certainly does not know my name or my face-- but I do believe I and the many, many like me, are nestled in that huge heart of his along with the handful that he does know. We are all just so lucky to have had him come into our lives .

It was amazing to hear and watch him take his voice and use it to connect to everyone sitting in that room. The voice says it all- there is no filter, no chance to misinterpret. The honesty comes from his soul.

You get the idea. *g* It was a magical night for most fans. Yes, some are still struggling with recent events, but Clay is who he is, a pretty amazing man, one well-worth admiring, and yes even loving.

And now for your viewing pleasure a Gala Montage by LovesClaysVoice:

Song: Miracle Of The Moment
Sung by: Stephen Curtis Chapman

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken TBAF Gala Bubel-Aiken Foundation fans montage Inclusion

The Gala Auction: Treasures for the Clay Aiken Fan

2008-10-19T06:49:00.001-07:00

Fans had fun bidding on the many desirable Clay Aiken related items that were up for auction at the 2008 Champions for Change Gala that was held in Raleigh on Oct 18th. The items included the Spamalot Broadway Cares Bear (pictured left) that was signed by both Clay and the original Sir Robin, David Hyde Pierce. The item that created the most frenzy was a the leather jacket worn by Clay during the Juke Box Tour in the summer of 2005. It went for the hefty price of $55,000.Clay said the Gala made $207,000 , not including the silent auction or the raffle. Congratulations to The Bubel Aiken Foundation on a job well done.

Here are some the items auctioned off:

Voice Mail Message $3700
Kimmel Bust $2700
Juke Box Tour Leather Jacket $55,000
Concert Stool $5300
Wango Tango Shirt $21,000
Someone Else's Star Shirt $28,000
Spamalot Bear $31,000
Celine Dion Concert Package which includes watching the concert with Clay $26,000
New York Gift Package including dinner and dessert with Clay (and friend) $36,000

~YouTube: Auction of the JBT Jacket~

-------

Not to lose the message of the foundation amidst all fun, here is Clay's opening speech about the foundation and the importance of inclusion:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Champions of Change Gala auction video leather jacket JBT inclusion speech

2008 Champions of Change Gala: Performances

2008-10-19T04:38:00.000-07:00

Clay performed at the The Bubel Aiken Foundation's 2008 Champions of Change Gala in Raleigh last night. Here are three of the performances:

~Everything You Don't Need~

~~Right Here Waiting~~

~Where I Draw The Line~

More on the Gala and hopefully the other two performances later.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Gala Everything I Don't Need Where I Draw the Line Right Here Waiting Performances Champions of Change 2008 Raleigh

Spotlight Video: August's Rhapsody

2008-10-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

Once in awhile there is a montage that is just so special it needs to be shared. Here is a stunningly beautiful montage montage of Clay Aiken: performer, humanitarian, dad.

Montage by the extremely talented Aspiegirl

Music from the film, August Rush: "August's Rhapsody"

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Montage August Rich August's Rhapsody

Spamalot Stage Door Fashion

2008-10-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

It's always fun to see what Clay will wear when he greets the fans at the stage door after a show. Clay tends to comfort and quirky choices for his everyday wear. One could say that the fashion and style gene was left out of his gay coding. *g* Who knows, because one person's style is another person's horror show. I love hoodies myself, but grandpa vests (even ridiculously expensive and trendy ones) not so much.

Judge for yourselves from a selection of photos taken over the last several weeks at the stage door:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Broadway Shubert Theater Stage Door Fashion

Clearing the Air

2008-10-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

"In essentials, I believe, he is very much what he ever was." ~Elizabeth Bennett in Pride and Prejudice

Coming out usually means telling family, friends, and colleagues. Unfortunately when someone is in the public eye, there is the added burden of having the media feeling it has the right to know a person's orientation. Over a week ago, Clay Aiken finally gave into the pressure of the constant scrutiny into his personal business. He did it for his son, and I hope also for himself. He didn't want to bring his son up learning to lie.

Clay is smart enough to know that fans reaction would run the gamit from those who already felt they knew to those who were totally blind-sided. He wisely gave some time to the fans to work through their feelings with little or no moderation on his fan club message board. He has not directly addressed the fans since his coming out until today. He graciously permitted his blog to be public so that all his fans can read it.

The blog:

Killing the elephants in the room.
10/03/08

What a week or so this has been. In fact, it's just been two weeks since I started back to the Spam. Jerome and I were just talking the other day, though, about how the past two weeks have felt like a month. So much routine to get back into and yet so much routine and consistency to break. No doubt, many of you have been going through quite a bit over the past week or so yourselves. What a bunch of headline news we have had in the past 10 days! Wall Street falling to it's knees. Congress propping it back up. Two debates. Hijackers in Somalia. New leaders in South Africa and Japan. You'd think with all of the important events going on in the world, there would be plenty to fill up the pages of America's newspapers, websites and blogs without the need for information on the private lives of the country's singers and entertainers. But, alas, thats never the case. In fact for the last five years, I've found what seems to have been an inordinate amount of interest (not from the public, but from the media) in my own personal life. The questions never seemed to stop. Oh sure, they die down for a period, but they resurface. The wind blows another direction, and I do yet another interview worried that my personal life will become a topic of discussion. No doubt the birth of Parker would bring the same scrutiny, just heightened. It's an interesting time we live in. Gone are the days when entertainers could go about their lives without the invasion of privacy that we now see everyday in the form of paparazzi and internet tabloid bloggers. So, in the hopes of being able to sing and act (and dance poorly) and do what I love to do for a living while raising my son in a hopefully more private and accepting environment, I chose to go ahead and confront things head on. Yes, I would have preferred to separate my personal life from my professional life. I would have been just as happy to go on without discussing my orientation. But, it seems like that was not an option. Make no mistake, its not because I am ashamed. No, not for a minute. I haven't always been as comfortable as I am now, but I am without a doubt, proud of who I am and make no apologies for it. Instead, I would have been happy to have kept my personal life private for that very reason. Because it's personal life and I have always considered myself a private person. But, living as myself without discussing my sexuality publicly would have been as impossible. One chance to expose the truth would have been a payday for any greedy opportunist.

I went to American Idol, much like many of us did "back in the day". Naive. Unlike the contestants who join up today, we had no idea of the power and pull of Idol when we signed on. (I'm sure many of us season two folks like to think we are the reason the show got so big!!! ;-) ) There I was two months off of the biggest show in the country, sitting at a table with a reporter from Rolling Stone who was asking me every single question I would never think of. Twenty-four years old in the rest of America is a LOT younger and more naive than twenty four years old in the media business. So when this guy started asking me about things that I didn't really know how to answer for myself... things that I was not yet ready to admit to folks like my mother and my family.... things that I found intimidating and invasive, I responded in what I assumed was a benign way at the time. I attempted to "out spin" a professional. I wasn't as good as I thought I was. But, I have no regrets. The truth is, I don't apologize for the responses I gave to that reporter or any reporter over the past five years. I did make every attempt I could after that one interview to never say "I am not gay" or "I am straight". And I never said either. (some interpreted my vague answers to mean that... but I never said either) Some will say thats misleading. In truth, it might be defined that way. But, a better definition and a more accurate way to describe it for me, is a redirection and an attempt to change the topic to something that matters more. For some of you it won't be enough, but I can't apologize for keeping my personal business to myself. If someone feels that they were mislead, I can totally understand that viewpoint and apologize for that feeling, but I can't apologize for how I handled questions that affected me and my right to privacy.

In my opinion, sexual orientation is ALWAYS a private thing. I think the OVERWHELMING majority of people agree with that. Why in the world should someone's sexual orientation be a news item? Why should anyone care? Yet, for all we espouse as a society about tolerance and open mindedness we forget to allow folks the opportunity to be who they are without judgement. Making a decision to come out to family is a difficult and heavy decision. But, for every young man or woman who is struggling with it, it should be a decision that is made on his or her own schedule ONLY. It's never acceptable for anyone to make such a decision for anyone else nor to coerce someone to take such a significant step before they are ready. Not a friend, not a stranger, not the media. So, I waited until the time was right for me. For that I can't apologize either.

There are plenty of you who have anticipated this blog in hopes that I would "set the record straight" or "admit to lying for five years and apologize for it". For that small group of people, I am afraid I will have to disappoint you. My decisions over the past five years have been made with lots of deliberation and at times even heartache. Always with concern for folks who might feel mislead. Don't doubt that. But they have also been made as an attempt, not to hide my true self, but instead to allow myself the same liberties and rights that every single gay man and woman in the world should have... the right to determine for myself when I was ready to discuss my personal life. In as much as that, at times, was interpreted as misrepresentation, I feel badly. But I reserved that right for myself and I can't say I regret it.

I have endeavored over the past several days to allow folks to vent and express themselves as freely as possible without restriction on these message boards. There is no way to change a person's mind when you tell them they are wrong. We all, when backed into a corner, have a human instinct to swing. Having different feelings and opinions and viewpoints are only natural. The only way to deal with that is to accept everyone's right to disagree, and allow them to discuss their feelings. I always have, and I always will. That said, it hasn't been, nor do I imagine it will be, my intent to make the message boards or the OFC a clearinghouse or discussion zone for sexuality or such topics. I hope we can always continue to discuss the same things we have always found important. The need for inclusion for children with disabilities. The desire to make sure every child in the world has access to their basic needs for survival. And any other topics that will make our neighborhoods, our regions, our country and our world a better more acceptable place (where that relates to issues involving sexuality, I hope we are able to advocate, at those times for the acceptance of others)... and I hope we will all still use the message boards for the lively discussion of the need for better entertainment and music in the world!!!! ;-) That said, as of this posting, I have asked the moderators to archive the thread regarding the People magazine article and close it from discussion. For those of you who are still struggling, I encourage you to continue to talk to your friends and neighbors and fellow OFC members in the thread devoted to such support. It is not going to be as easy as accepting something over night, but I believe that we are on the right track. The moderators will resume their regular duties of moderating the boards in the fashion that they did prior to last week, and I (and hopefully all of us) will resume our routines in the same fashion as well. Talking about music, talking about potential tours and other performances and appearances, talking about me forgetting my lines of tripping on stage in Spamalot, and discussing with our friends how many times we have seen the show and will see it! (And... looking forward to the announcement of out Playbill contest winner!!!)

Finally, I will say that, also representative of most every other gay man and woman in the world, that I am not defined by my sexuality. No more so than each of you are defined by your sexual orientation. No more than a man or woman is defined by race or ethnicity. It is, simply, a small facet of the same person I have always been. Most of you realize that nothing has changed. I hope to continue being able to entertain you in the same way I have for the past five years. And I hope you will allow me to continue to inform you of the causes that I find important and entertain you with the music and performances I love. For I love and cherish you all. Yesterday, now and forever.

c

~Thank you Clay. As always, I admire the man that you are, and am proud to be your fan.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken coming out fans media gay sexual orientation

I'll Stand By You

2008-09-25T06:26:00.001-07:00

**Spotlight Video**

I'll Stand By You

~Montage by rcknrllmom~
~Song by The Pretenders~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken montage Pretenders I'll Stand By You support fans

Reveal Me Completely

2008-09-24T04:37:00.000-07:00

From People.com

Following the Aug. 8 birth of his son Parker, singer Clay Aiken is following through on a promise he made to himself as a new dad: to publicly acknowledge that he's gay.

"It was the first decision I made as a father," Aiken, 29, tells the upcoming issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday. "I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things. I wasn't raised that way, and I'm not going to raise a child to do that."

Aiken says he expects the news may overwhelm some of his fans. "Whether it be having a child out of wedlock, or whether it be simply being a homosexual, it's going to be a lot," said Aiken, who returned to Broadway last week as Sir Robin in Monty Python's Spamalot.

He adds that he hopes his fans "know that I've never intended to lie to anybody at all. ... But if they leave, I don't want them to leave hating me."

How He Came Out to His Family
The born-again Christian singer also reveals how he told his mother Faye he's gay four years ago. After dropping off his younger brother Brett, who was being deployed to Iraq, at Camp Lejeune, "I started crying in the car," Aiken remembers. "It was dark. I was sitting there, thinking to myself. I don't know why I started thinking about it ... I just started bawling. She made me pull over the car and it just came out."

So what was his mom's reaction? "She started crying. She was obviously somewhat stunned. But she was very supportive and very comforting." Even now, Aiken admits, "She still struggles with things quite a bit, but she's come a long way."

As for his own child, Aiken tells PEOPLE that Parker – who was conceived via in vitro fertilization with his best friend, music producer Jaymes Foster – will be raised in an environment that is "accepting and allowing him to be happy."

Says Aiken: "I have no idea if he'll be gay or straight. It's not something I'll have anything to do with, or that he'll have anything to do with. It's already probably up inside the code there ... No matter what the situation you're in, if you're raised in a loving environment, that's the most important thing."

***

People Magazine has scored a two-fer exclusive with Clay Aiken. A first-look at his beautiful baby, Parker and the very big news that Clay is gay. After what must have been a long journey to self-realization in regards to his sexuality, I hope that Clay has found peace and happiness in his life.

As to be expected, reactions to the news are diverse, but the majority is very positive. Here are a few highlights:

In my eyes Clay is still a man of immense integrity. Keeping his sexual orientation to himself doesn't change that one iota. I've been a fan for a long time and I'm going to be a fan forever. I've come to appreciate and respect the man he. His kindness, his compassion, the way he gives back as often as he can and so many more qualities that right now I can't sort out.

Should Clay be reading this I want him to know how proud I am of him. I'm proud of the way he remained a gentleman despite having so many people fling mud at him. I would want him to know this fan, this fan is going nowhere. Well not necessarily true...this fan wants desperately to go to another concert. SOON. Not Clay's soon buy my soon. Say spring time 2009? Yeah, that sounds about right.

He is an amazing man, a singular talent, possessed of a blue-moon vocal ability, a genius for interpretation, a gift for comedy, a compassionate spirit and a loving heart. In service to children's causes, he embodies the concept of servant-leader. He writes with insight and humor. He's becoming a fine actor. He has crafted one of the best and most moving lyrics I have heard in the last decade, and I hope there will be many more songs that he wants to sing, because I will always want to listen.

I have to tell you that the feeling inside of me is one of happiness, relief and joy for him. I just keep thinking "the truth will set you free". After all the years of speculation, taunting, and derision...I am finally hoping that Clay can just live his life in peace. To me it's like the release of a butterfly that has been hidden in a dark chrysalis for a long time. I feel so happy for him...and I feel so proud of him for his bravery and courage at revealing this truth to the world in his own time and terms.

I just listened to "On My Way Here" today coming home from work (before seeing the People Cover). My favorite song is "The Real Me". And I love the lines..."reveal me...completely" (see my designation). That line has always resonated with me partly because I believe one of the greatest journeys as a person is the journey to be an authentic human being. To know oneself. It's not so much "finding oneself" as much as it is "revealing oneself".

Clay, you are still exactly the same man to me today that you were any other day. A humble man with an incredible voice, a man with a desire to make the world a happier and better place, a man with an unbelievable capacity to love the children of the world and do everything he can to make their lives better, a man committed to teaching others about the importance of inclusion of children of all abilities in the world around him, a man who loves and appreciates his fans, and deserves in return their love and appreciation.

Is his heart any different than it was before? Is his voice less beautiful? Is he no longer the loving, caring man he's always been--the man who truly wants to make a difference in this world?
No, he hasn't changed. He's the same man, I'm the same fan. No, I take that back--maybe I love him more.

Clay is exactly the same person he was 24 hours ago. The only difference is that he's chosen to share something deeply private that we had no business or need to know for the sake of setting the right example for his newborn son. To me, this act of sharing now is the epitome of honor, nobility and grace. It only makes me love him and respect him more. I do not care that it took him this long to do it, since it's none of my beeswax anyway. I do not feel betrayed or misled in ANY way. It does not affect his character in my eyes or the fact that he is an amazing musician and humanitarian. My life and the lives of thousands all over the world are better because of him and that's all I need to know.

After Parker was born I started listening very closely to the lyrics on the OMWH CD and "Lover All Alone" 's lyrics stood out to me...when I heard them over and over, the line at the beginning "and I was wrong all along" and at the end "but I was wrong all along" convinced me of Clay's sexuality...I am not normally very analytical with song lyrics, but I felt some revelation that, especially since Clay wrote these lyrics, that he was trying to tell that he was gay through the lyrics of this hauntingly beautiful song. To me it shows that, at first he was not sure, but eventually he had to admit to himself that he was gay... the "and" and the "but" are very telling.

Overall, a very positive fan reaction. Yes, there are some struggling with the news and hopefully they can come to terms with it. If not, it's their loss because in the end Clay is what he always was, a man of honor and integrity. A man worthy of our respect and admiration. Plus the man still sings like an angel.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken People magazine Parker baby coming out fans reactions

Pretty Darn Amazing

2008-09-23T09:05:00.000-07:00

From Broadway.com

If you were taking a cab across 44th Street on September 19, chances are it wasn't cheap. With Daniel Radcliffe appearing down the block in previews for Equus, the sidewalks got even more crowded with fans and onlookers, thanks to Clay Aiken's splashy return to Spamalot. After leaving the show in April (and becoming a father last month), the pop phenom reassumed the role of Sir Robin and brought down the house with his seemingly effortless performance and an ace rendition of "You Won't Succeed on Broadway." Aiken's signed on through January 4, so if you missed him the first time, here's your chance to be impressed. And trust us, the guy's pretty darn amazing.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Broadway Shubert Theater photos

Sir Robin Returns

2008-09-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken reprized his role in Spamalot this past weekend to the delight of his fans. After a four-month absence from the role, Clay resumed playing Sir Robin, a prison guard, and Brother Maynard as if he had never left.

Here are a sample of comments made on the message boards:

*He was AMAZING! For only one day of rehearsal the man did everything perfectly. He really looked like he was having the time of his life. I think he really loved being back on stage and seeing the fans. And we definitely showed him the love!

*It was so great being back at the Shubert and just being there and seeing everyone again felt like coming home. Clay has brought this family together and it was so amazing to have a reunion tonight and have everyone back together again. This is only the beginning! The next 4 months are going to be amazing!!

*He looked so happy on stage. It struck me at the very beginning and throughout the show how happy the other castmates were. Especially, Rick, Tom, Chris and some of the ensemble who were with Clay the last time. I felt again that the entire cast was enjoying the enthusiasm that the Clay fans had...not just for Clay but all of them. As each of the old cast members hit the stage, there was great applause...it was wonderful. I noticed that Clay spent a good deal of time looking at the audience as her performed. It was as if he was making eye-contact with his fans.

*Just being there again last night was magical! I've seen this show from the orchestra, the mezzanine and in SRO..... last night we chose the balcony . Let me say that it really doesn't matter where you are sitting because the excitement Clay brings to this show just fills the theater!!!

*Still flying from seeing Clay last night. It was what I needed...to laugh...to reconnect with Clay. It was good for the soul. It reminded me why I am here. When his face peeked out of that tower it was just a giddy feeling...almost close to that feeling I had at AI 2 at the concert when I was just...he is real...he is really really real...I think though this time it was he is here again...he is really really here again.

*As I entered the Shubert, the feeling of 'coming home' was overwhelming!!!! Seeing so many familiar faces in the audience, the smiles, the hugs, the hellos were like a warm blanket you could wrap yourself in.

*The house was electric before the show and afterwards in the alley. I think the cast feeds off that energy...and Clay brings so much to the show...his IT his energy...it adds that spark...that magic that makes Broadway at times an experience that can soar.

*Finally, the play started and we held our collective breath until that magical moment when Clay appeared in the tower... and Lord, what a moment!!! The cheering was deafening and would have gone on forever had it not been for the orchestra striking up King Arthur's song who bravely went ahead and started singing above the cheering... To our credit, we did quiet down...

*If there truly is heaven on earth, it can be found at the Shubert Theater from now until January 4th.

*It was also rewarding to hear the cheers that Rick, Tom and David got when they made their first entrances. I respect them so much and appreciate their talents immensely. Again, it was like seeing family again...albeit a Broadway Show Family....when they each walked out on stage in their roles that had grown so near and dear to me. I had a huge smile on my face as each one of them appeared on stage. They were as marvelous as ever.

So it sounds like a like a good time was had by all. *g*

Here's wonderful montage made by sueru to commemorate Clay's opening night.

~Nights in White Satin sung by the Moody Blues~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Broadway Shubert Theater Opening Night Montage

A Tale on the Red Carpet

2008-09-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken attend the premiere of A Tale of Two Cities at the Al Hirshfield Theatre on Broadway last night, September 18th where he also walked the red carpet. Other celebrities at the show were theater legend Celeste Holm, actor Matthew Broderick, director and choreographer Susan Stroman, and dancer Marge Champion.

Tonight starts Clay's four-month second run in Spamalot at the Shubert Theatre. For more information visit the Spamalot website

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Spamalot: 19 days and counting

2008-08-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a little teaser:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Broadway Shubert Theater

Lullaby

2008-08-15T04:53:00.000-07:00

To the world you may be one person
But to one person you are the world

~By fountaindawg~

Parker Foster Aiken was welcomed to our world on Friday August 8, 2008 at 8:08AM by his large and loving extended family of Fosters, Aikens and Parkers.

The meaning of the name Parker is: Park Keeper
The origin is: English

The meaning of the name Foster is: forest keeper
The origin is: English

The meaning of the name Aiken is: From the Oak Trees
The origin is: English

Some in Claynation are speculating that Parker might have a career as a forest ranger in his future unless of course he inherited the Aiken/Foster musical genes then all bets are off.

****
A beautiful poem was posted on one of the Clay Aiken message boards in honor of Parker's birth and the poster graciously agreed to let me post it here. Written by ymarie:

God created a brand new soul, and began looking for the perfect home.
He wanted two parents who would give this child all the love their hearts could hold.

He saw a woman who had never known the joy of holding her child.
A woman who appeared to the outside world to be somewhat meek and mild.
But in her heart burned a fierce desire to have a daughter or son
To love and cherish all the days of her life, and God said, “She’s the one.”

Then he looked for a man, honest and true, who was filled with compassion and love.
Someone gentle yet strong, and worthy upon whom to bestow this gift from above.
A man who would always put others first, who long had a dream of inclusion.
Who wants to give every child the world, no matter their country or station.
So, this man who brings so much happiness to a world beset by strife
Would now be given his greatest desire, entrusted with this new life.

Clay and Jaymes, God chose you to be the perfect parents for this little boy.
He will be loved beyond reason, and will always be a source of pride and joy.

Congratulations and God’s blessings upon your new family. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your excitement and happiness. We love you.

***
Newborns always bring to mind the beautiful song "Lullaby" by the Dixie Chicks. Parker is lucky little boy that he has a dad with such a beautiful voice to sing him to sleep. I wonder what lullaby Clay is singing to his son.

"Lullaby"

They didn't have you where I come from
Never knew the best was yet to come
Life began when I saw your face
And I hear your laugh like a serenade

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

I slip in bed when you're asleep
To hold you close and feel your breath on me
Tomorrow there'll be so much to do
So tonight I'll drift in a dream with you

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

As you wander through this troubled world
In search of all things beautiful
You can close your eyes when you're miles away
And hear my voice like a serenade

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

~"Lullaby" by the Dixie Chicks~

Technorati Tags:
Clay Aiken Parker Foster Aiken lullaby lyrics dixie chicks baby son

Back to Spamalot

2008-08-13T05:12:00.000-07:00

Return Engagement September 19, 2008 through January 4, 2009

Broadway is a very, very special place with very, very special people and Clay Aiken couldn't stay away. In a statement Clay joked, "Since leaving Spamalot in May, jokes have just not been funny. Food has lost its taste. The grass is no longer green — the sky no longer blue. And, babies won't stop crying!! I'm so excited about coming back to the funniest show in the world!"

From Variety:

Clay Aiken returning to Broadway
'American Idol' vet to reprise 'Spamalot' role
By GORDON COX

Claymates, get ready to head back to Broadway: "American Idol" alum Clay Aiken returns to the Rialto production of "Monty Python's Spamalot" this fall in a four-month stint.

Aiken will reprise the role of Sir Robin, which he played earlier this year in an engagement that ended May 4. David Hyde Pierce originated the part in the 2005 tuner, based on the 1975 film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail."

Aiken is one of several reality TV stars who have made their way to Broadway, along with Fantasia Barrino ("The Color Purple") and Taylor Hicks ("Grease").

His previous run in "Spamalot" had a noticeable effect on box office. Weekly sales for the tuner surged the week Aiken joined the cast and took a steep tumble the frame after he departed.

Aiken returns to "Spamalot" Sept. 19-Jan. 4.

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On My Way Here: 200 Freestyle Michael Phelps, Park Tae-hwan, and Peter Vanderkaay

2008-08-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

Since this is a Clay Aiken-centric blog I usually don't blog about other topics, but the fantastic 200-freestyle in the 2008 Olympics with a record-breaking gold medal win by Michael Phelps warrants a break from the main topic.

Michael Phelps now ties Mark Sptiz, Larisa Latynina, Paavo Nurmi, and Carl Lewis with 9 gold medals. In the winning swim, Michael broke the world record by more than a minute with a time of 1:42:96. He finished more than a full body-length over silver medalist Park Tae-hwan. Michael touched the wall so early that he got to watch the rest of the field coming in. First-time Olympian Peter Vanderkaay won the bronze. Congratulations to all three.

Since this is a Clay Aiken blog it seems fitting to feature this video of Park Tae-hwan which was shown on Korean TV following his silver medal swim. The footage features Clay singing "On My Way Home":

From Crackle: On Way Way Here:

Technorati Tags: On My Way Here Clay Aiken Park Tae-hwan Michael Phelps Peter Vanderkaay swimming freestyle 200 final gold medal silver medal bronze medal world record

Welcome to the World Parker Foster Aiken

2008-08-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

It's finally here. The day that Clay Aiken became a father. At 8:08AM on 8-08-08 Parker Foster Aiken was born weighing at 6lbs 2 oz and 19 inches long with dark hair.

Clay's announced the birth to the fans via a blog which is public:

Hello All...

I know it's been a while. I'm sure you know, it's been a full full summer. Sorry we haven't spoken in so long. But, I'm sure you know... I hate putting the cart before the horse. Not my way to tempt fate. But I wanted to stop by, if only for a second, so you could be the first folks I tell.... HE'S HERE!

My dear friend, Jaymes, and I are so excited to announce the birth of Parker Foster Aiken (No hyphens. One first name. One middle name. One last name.)

Parker was born at a hospital in North Carolina just this morning at 8:08 AM. Wow... 8:08 ..08/08/08

Weighed in at 6 lbs 2 oz and measured 19 inches

The little man is healthy, happy, and as loud as his daddy. Mama Jaymes is doing quite well also.

The Aiken family, the Foster family, and the Parker family are all thrilled.

We'll share more at some point in the future. Love to you all!

C

Grandma Faye made an announcement to the rest of the world via

WRAL. Take that TMZ

Clay Aiken becomes a father

Posted: Today at 10:10 a.m.

Raleigh, N.C. — Clay Aiken became a father Friday morning with the birth of a baby boy, his mother told WRAL’s Lynda Loveland in an exclusive interview.

Aiken’s best friend, producer Jaymes Foster, gave birth at 8:08 a.m. at an undisclosed location in North Carolina.

Parker Foster Aiken weighed 6 pounds 2 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Aiken’s mother, Faye, said the baby has dark hair and that her son is smiling from ear-to-ear.

Mom, dad and baby all are doing fine.

Aiken and Foster will raise the child together. They met when Aiken appeared on American Idol. Foster has produced several of his albums

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Jaymes Foster baby birth Parker Foster Aiken blog WRAL

Mulder and Scully: As Long As We're Here

2008-07-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

Spotlight Video

In honor of the X-Files movie here is a wonderful montage depicting Scully and Mulder's relationship set to "As Long As We're Here" by Clay Aiken.

~Montage by linds7398~

~"As Long as We're Here" sung by Clay Aiken; written by Jan Howard and Rebecca Lynn-Howard~

"As Long As We're Here"

Why do we have to fight?
Why can't spend our time... trying?
I wanna be close to you
Keep love from slipping through... my hands
The words said in anger aimed at someone
Are hard to take back once the damage is done

Let's stop now....

As long as we're here... alive on this earth
I'm gonna love you... for all that it's worth
And one of these days ... we're gonna take off and fly...

Let's make the most of of our time
As long as we're here... (yeah...)

Some people live their lives
Holding their fears... inside them
Afraid to build windows
To let the light of the world in...
They hide in the darkness of self-imposed walls
If they could just tear them down... they'd have it all

As long as we're here... alive on this earth
I'm gonna love you for all that it's worth
And one of these days ... we're gonna take off and fly...

Let's make the most of of our time
As long as we're here... (yeah... yeah... yeah...)

When you're with me.... I breathe easy
You are my need .. right now love me

As long as we're here (as long as we're here)
I'm gonna love you (I'm gonna love you)
And one of these days ... we're gonna take off and fly...

As long as we're here... alive on this earth
I'm gonna love you for all that it's worth
And one of these days ... we're gonna take off and fly...

Let's make the most of of our time
Oh.. make the most of our time
As long as we're here...
As long as we're here...

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken As Long As We're Here lyrics montage Scully Mulder kiss romance Jan Howard Rebecca Lynn-Howard

An UNICEF Photo Album

2008-07-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken was appointed UNICEF Ambassador in 2004 for his committment to children and education. Since becoming an Ambassador, Clay has performed many duties on UNICEF's behalf including field trips to Indonesia, Uganda, Somalia, Mexico, and Afghanistan, school visits, and he even testified before Congress. Here is a photographic journey of Clay's UNICEF related work.

Technorati Tags:Clay Aiken Somalia UNICEF Uganda Afghanistan Sumatra Indonesia Mexico education visits school snowflake congress

Spotlight Video: Olympians -- On Their Way

2008-07-23T06:09:00.001-07:00

Here is another beautiful montage in honor of the upcoming Olympics featuring "On My Way Here".

Spotlight Video

~~Montage by Hosaa~~

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken On My Way Here Olympics Sports Jesse Owens Muhammad Ali Nadia Comaneci Greg Louganis Mary Decker Kerri Strug

UNICEF: Kenya

2008-07-22T13:59:00.001-07:00

Clay Aiken has posted his last Field Notes Blog at the UNICEF website. After his trip to Somalia, he visited Kenya to observe the education program in Kenya's Rift Valley.

*********

Clay Aiken calls for Kenya's kids to return to school

In early July, after visiting Somalia, I traveled to Eldoret, in Kenya’s Rift Valley, to visit camps for internally displaced people. This is where some of the worst violence took place following the Kenya elections in early 2008. Thousands of children were made homeless by the unrest.

Everywhere we went, there were the charcoaled remains of homes, schools and shops. We drove for hours and everywhere we went, we saw people trying to get their lives restored.

© US Fund for UNICEF / 2008 / Nick Ysenburg

Although many schools were re-opened, far fewer children are turning up for class than before. And classes are taking place in schools that have been completely destroyed. I saw children sitting on rocks and bricks—which used to make up the foundations and roofs of their schools—using them now as desks and chairs.

Fortunately, this was not the situation everywhere. In most IDP camps, UNICEF has provided classroom tents and School-in-a-Box kits, along with teaching and learning materials, and even desks and chairs.

© US Fund for UNICEF / 2008 / Nick Ysenburg

Getting children back to school is vital for their protection, and helps build a sense of normalcy in their lives. The re-establishment of schools in the most difficult circumstances is a testament to the commitment of UNICEF and to Kenyans. Many displaced parents told UNICEF that getting their children back to school was their top priority.

© US Fund for UNICEF / 2008 / Nick Ysenburg

Every child has the right to an education. Education transforms lives and breaks the cycle of poverty that so many children are caught in. And an educated child will make sure his or her own children receive an education too. This is just another one of the many amazing ways UNICEF is helping children today, while also building a safer Kenya tomorrow.

To learn more about UNICEF's education program, visit UNICEFUSA

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken UNICEF Kenya education children poverty

Spotlight Video: Olympic Dreams

2008-07-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

~~SPOTLIGHT MONTAGE~~

In honor of the upcoming Olympics, here is a wonderful video photo montage showcasing the journey to the Olympic Dream.

*Montage by SueRu*
*Song: "On My Way Here sung by Clay Aiken, written by Ryan Tedder*

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Montage Ryan Tedder Olympics Dreams Journey On My Way Here

Somalia

2008-07-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the newest e-mail sent out by UNICEF on behalf of the fundraising/awareness campaign for Somalia.

**Click to Enlarge**

Donate online

SPOTLIGHT VIDEO

**Montage by Yollie950**
~"Grace of God" Sung by Clay Aiken (written by Don Mescall)~

Technorati Tags:
Clay Aiken Somalia UNICEF Somaliland children poverty montage Grace of God Don Mescall

UNICEF in Somalia: Fieldnotes

2008-07-16T06:05:00.000-07:00

Blog #2 from Clay Aiken's recent trip to Somalia was posted at the
UNICEF website.

For children in Somalia, the situation is dire. But, it's just amazing to me that UNICEF is still able to make a difference in children’s lives in one of the most dangerous places on earth.

© US Fund for UNICEF / 2008 / Nick Ysenburg

For instance, while I was in northwest Somalia—where 45 percent of the population are children and women—I observed how UNICEF improves water, sanitation and hygiene conditions for everyone in the region. One of the ways they do this is by drilling "borewells" so that clean drinking water is easily accessible and readily available. Without these borewells, children would have to walk hours to fetch water instead of going to school and getting an education.

I also visited health clinics where women waited patiently in long lines to get insecticide treated bed nets to prevent malaria. With an estimated 700,000 cases annually, malaria is a major public health problem in Somalia. One bed nets used to cost a Somali family about $4—an enormous sum in one of the poorest countries of the world. But UNICEF now provides them for free.

UNICEF also provides much needed support to the education system in Somalia with teacher training and the funding of school supplies. Every child I met wanted to be in school. And because of UNICEF, these children—who would probably never have had any type of education—can go to school and learn in a safe, clean environment.

© US Fund for UNICEF / 2008 / Nick Ysenburg

Educating children is much easier when teachers are trained and school facilities exist. And, providing healthcare is more easily done when aid workers do not have to worry about their security. I applaud UNICEF for doing whatever it takes to make sure children get the healthcare and education they deserve, even in Somalia.

And, I applaud you too. Since my previous blog post, you have donated over $50,000 for children Somalia. On behalf of these children, I can't thank you enough. But I also challenge you to not stop now... encourage your friends and family as well. Ask them to learn more about UNICEF's work in Somalia and around the world, and cheer them on to help out too!

****

To help the children Somalia receive care for their basic needs please donate online.

For another great blog filled with information, visit The Conclayve and read UNICEF, Clay Aiken and Somalia's Children: How One Simple Act Can Save the World Entire

Technorati Tags: UNICEF Clay Aiken education field visit health care hygiene malaria sanitation school School-in-a-Box Somalia water

Somalia: The Forgotten Land

2008-07-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

In light of Clay Aiken's recent trip to Somaliland on behalf of UNICEF, I would like to feature a 2005 documentary of Somaliland produced by BBC journalist Simon Reeve. Somaliland is a breakaway state that no one in the world recognizes as a legitimate land.

"Places That Don't Exist"

Simon Reeve travels to the unrecognized nation of Somaliland, in the Horn of Africa. On the way he visits Mogadishu, the dangerous capital of Somalia (from which Somaliland has separated), and meets extraordinary characters such as former guerrilla fighter Yusuf, and Mr Big Beard, who sells Simon a Somali diplomatic passport.

Part 1: Simon Reeve's entry into Somalia via Mogadishu

Part 2: Simon Reeve's visit to Hargeisa in Somaliland. Warning: graphic images of a mass grave.

Part 3: Simon Reeve's visit to Hargeisa in Somaliland.

E-Mail sent out by Clay and UNICEF:

~click to enlarge~

Donate online

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Somalia UNICEF Somaliland Simon Reeve Mogadishu Hargeisa culture destination landmark travel log

UNICEF: Clay Aiken In Somalia

2008-07-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

~~Graphic by Invisible926~~

Clay Aiken recently returned from a UNICEF trip to Somalia. His field notes blog was posted at the UNICEF website.

Where is the outrage?

I recently returned from a UNICEF field visit that took me to northwest Somalia. What I saw there was both amazing and heartbreaking. In many ways, the children I was able to meet are doing better than their counterparts in the rest of Somalia. But in other respects, the situation there is still quite serious.

UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken with children he met on his recent visit to Somalia.

For starters, the lack of a permanent central government has contributed to Somalia's status as one of the poorest and most volatile countries in the world. Decades of civil conflict have shattered social structures and exacerbated poverty.

In such conditions—combined with an extremely arid environment and difficult terrain with settlements scattered over vast distances—a Somali child's chances of surviving to adulthood are among the lowest of children anywhere in the world.

Fortunately, UNICEF is there. It has been on the ground since 1972 and is the humanitarian organization with the largest presence in Somalia.

Since the collapse of the Somali government in 1991, UNICEF has continued to provide services to children and women in Somalia.

In Hargeisa, I visited UNICEF-supported schools and hospitals, as well as places girls are able to learn about leadership, get life-skills and play sports. I also visited UNICEF-supported maternal and child health clinics to observe some nutritional feeding and immunization activities. The good news is that these programs are working in the northwest and keeping children alive. The bad news is that one in eight children still dies before his or her fifth birthday in Somalia.

One of the most incredible things I learned on my trip is that there are only 350 doctors left in the entire country, mostly because of the violence and insecurity. And many of these doctors are older than the average life expectancy in Somalia, which is only 45. I can't help but wonder, what is going to happen in a couple of years when there are no more doctors? What will happen to the children who struggle to survive?

What disturbs me most about this terrible situation for children is that most of the world has ignored it. Millions of children live in fear and poverty—where is the outrage?

At least we know something can be done. Help UNICEF save and improve the lives of children in Somalia. Donate online, right now.

Please help if you can.

For more information on the plight of the children of Somalia, please visit The Conclayve: Turning Outrage into Action: Clay Aiken, UNICEF and the Children of Somalia

In keeping with the UNICEF theme, here is a beautiful montage set to clips from The Survival Project which recently aired on CNN.

Song: Grace of God by Clay Aiken

~~Montage by gerswip~~

All children are born innocent and deserve the chance to thrive. To do that they need basic resources: water, shelter, nutrition. To have a better life they need healthcare and education. UNICEF helps in all these areas. Please visit unicef.org for more information and ways to help.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Somalia UNICEF Somaliland children poverty CNN The Survival Project Field Notes Blog advocacy children emergency heath care education

Hope: Rising from the Ashes

2008-07-06T05:37:00.000-07:00

~~Spotlight Video~~

Overcoming Adversity

Montage by IU Gal

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Song by Clay Aiken: Ashes

Capitol 4th Revisted

2008-07-04T05:22:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Revisit Clay Aiken's 2004 Capitol Fourth appearance in this montage by Yollie950:

Montage by Yollie950

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UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken Visits North-West Somalia

2008-07-03T12:30:00.001-07:00

UNICEF Ambassador, Clay Aiken talks to 9-year old Rahma during a visit to the Somaliland Cultural and Sports Association (SOCSA) in Hargeisa, North West Somalia. The UNICEF-supported organization teaches girls about leadership, health, life-skills and provides a safe space in which to play sports. (PRNewsFoto/U.S. Fund for UNICEF)

UNICEF is making a difference in Somalia despite difficult circumstances; Urges world to remember Somali children

NAIROBI, KENYA (July 3, 2008) — UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken today ended a five-day visit to the troubled East-African nation of Somalia and called on the world to remember the plight of that country’s children.

“Unfortunately this is a region that’s better known for conflict, insecurity, drought and floods,” said Aiken who has been a UNICEF Ambassador for four years. “It’s truly remarkable that UNICEF is still able to make a difference in the health, education and overall well-being of Somali children.”

Aiken traveled to Hargeisa, Gabiley and Boroma located in the northwest region of the country, known as the republic of Somaliland. Here, Aiken was able to observe first-hand UNICEF-supported projects that promote child health, safe water, sanitation and hygiene, primary education, child protection and girls’ empowerment.

Somalia is a country in which less than 25 percent of the population has access to basic health services, less than 30 percent of children attend primary school and only 29 percent have access to a safe water source.

It's also a place where 98 percent of girls are subjected to genital circumcision and maternal mortality rates are among the highest in the world.

One of Aiken’s first stops was the Somaliland Cultural and Sports Association (SOCSA), an enclosed facility in Gabiley dedicated to empowering girls through sport and cultural activities.

“The girls here are able to learn about leadership and health, acquire life-skills and play sports within a safe environment,” said Aiken. “Even the youngest girls that I’ve met at SOCSA impressed me with how confident and articulate they are as a result of this project.”

At a camp for 1500 internally displaced families in Hargeisa, Aiken met 11-year-old Abduraman, who helps to support his five siblings and blind mother by working each morning to collect stones. He uses his earnings to pay for school which he attends in the afternoon.

“Somalia has some of the lowest enrollment rates in the world, but every child has the right to an education,” Aiken stressed. “UNICEF is working to help ensure that even working children get to go to school.” UNICEF has also provided the camp with child protection monitors, teacher-training and school materials.”

In Boroma, Aiken also visited maternal and child health clinics to observe nutritional feeding and immunization activities along with projects supporting children with disabilities, the eradication of female genital mutilation and the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

“Now that I have seen Somalia for myself, I feel it is important for the American public to remember that the Somali people have the same dreams for their children that we do,” said Aiken, who in recent years has also visited conflict areas in Afghanistan and Uganda for UNICEF.

“The country is one of the most desperate in the world. Fortunately, UNICEF has always been there and continues to provide the support needed to make a difference. No other organization is more capable of making such a difference than UNICEF," Aiken added.

The lack of a permanent central government has contributed to Somalia’s status as one of the poorest and most volatile countries in the world. One of the most serious droughts since the 1970s has affected large parts of the country, exacerbating hardships for rural populations.

Donate now to support UNICEF's work for the children of Somalia.

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The Journey

2008-06-30T05:07:00.000-07:00

Spotlight Montage

On My Way Here

~By Dreamlarge~

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The Survival Project: One Child at a Time

2008-06-28T12:12:00.000-07:00

From violence and abuse to fundamental health issues such as lack of drinking water, children around the globe are facing threats that challenge survival. CNN looks at these issues, solutions that are working and how you can make a difference.

A historic global broadcast on CNN and CNN International

Dr. Sanjay Gupta meets children living in some of the least developed neighborhoods of Lima, Peru.

NEW YORK (June 23, 2008) — Tune in to CNN on Sunday, July 6 at 8 and 11 pm (ET), when CNN will explore why 26,000 children die every day from preventable causes, and what UNICEF doing to save young lives.

Hosted by CNN's chief medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, "The Survival Project: One Child at a Time" is a one-hour historic broadcast examining what kind of action is required to stop the unnecessary deaths of children under age five.

CNN will highlight four areas where UNICEF demonstrates its remarkable on-the-ground expertise in doing whatever it takes to save a child:

Child protection in Iraq
Water and sanitation in Laos
HIV/AIDS in Peru
Child survival interventions in Ethiopia

Leading experts in each of these key areas will contribute to a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Gupta.

Clay Aiken, Dayle Haddon, Joel Madden, Ne-Yo, Nicole Ritchie, Al Roker, Marcus Samuelsson and Amare Stoudemire appear in special video diaries of their volunteer experiences and encourage viewers to help children around the world.

"The Survival Project: One Child at a Time" is a chance to get a first-hand look at the plight of millions of children around the world, struggling each and every day for survival.

For more information, visit the CNN website

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Clay Aiken appeals for world attention on Somalia

2008-06-25T14:39:00.001-07:00

Graphic by fountaindawg for clayaikenkids.com

By Guled Mohamed HARGEISA, Somalia (Reuters Life!) - Clay Aiken appealed on Wednesday for the world not to forget Somalia, where conflict and hunger have created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Aiken said U.S. and international...

read more | digg story

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AOL Sessions

2008-06-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

Check out the performance videos that Clay Aiken recorded for AOL Sessions:

"Ashes"

"Everything I Don't Need"

"Something About Us"

"On My Way Here"

"Where I Draw The Line"

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Interview: Confessiona of a former AI

2008-05-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

Cute interview at Channelnewsasia

Confessions of former idol Clay Aiken

He’s had four Top 5 albums on the Billboard charts, but Clay Aiken still can’t shake off his days as the geek on American Idol.

“I think to some extent in the United States, you don’t really shed that Idol tag,” he said over the phone from Los Angeles.

“It’s such a huge show that you can’t escape it.

“But I got here being myself on American Idol, and I try my best on continuing to be here based on being myself,” he added.

“If you want to be good at what you do, you can’t slack off. You have to continue to try to do better. Anybody who assumes I’m here only because of Idol is wrong.”

Aiken’s latest album, On My Way Here, confirms that sentiment. Most of the songs, he said, are about “becoming and discovering yourself”, and learning life lessons rather than lessons “from a book in school”.

It’s something that the Raleigh, North Carolina, native has first-hand experience of.

“I never wanted to be a singer,” he admitted. “I wanted to be a teacher. So all this kind of happened as a blessing — to be able to take my hobby and turn it into my job. All the experiences, luck and blessings have come because we’ve been open to a lot of things.”

Still, he’s quick to point out that fame does have its drawbacks.

“Like I was out the other day with my friends just wanting to get some dinner, and we had paparazzi following us the whole time — that’s a pain in the butt,” he said, sighing. “It’s part of the job. I think you just have to learn to deal with it.”

“It” includes rumours that the 29-year-old singer has had plastic surgery and is actually gay but afraid to admit it.

“That’s what’s so great about America,” he said, laughing. “One of our valuable amendments to the Constitution — freedom of the press — is also one of the crappiest. You can write anything you want. You don’t need to have any proof or any truth to what you write.”

Lucky for Aiken, besides the surgery and gay rumours, he’s not exactly exciting tabloid fodder.

“I stole a car one time. At 15, you can drive as long as a parent is with you but one day, they were out, so I took the car out for drive by myself. That’s probably the most rebellious thing I’ve done.”

Yup, Clay Aiken stole his parent’s car when he was 15. Doesn’t exactly scream magazine sales.

“Nobody’s ever the same person everyday, but for the most part, I think I’m pretty nice and easy to get along with. But my manager will probably say that’s crap.”

Still, he does have a snippy side. “Last night, I was watching one of the way-too-many music awards shows we have and the live performances were almost unbearable to listen to. I think people just don’t realise how bad they are. It was really awful. People were off-key, and it was a ... mess.”

Has Aiken turned into a Simon Cowell? “No, but it was really hard to listen to. I was telling my friend: ‘Oh my god, if I were ever that bad, please promise to tell me.’ I hope I’m never that bad.”

Clay Aiken On My Way Here interview music AI Amierican Idol Award Shows AsiaChannelNews Asia

Great Steely Dan musicians rock on Clay Aiken's new CD

2008-05-24T10:32:00.001-07:00

Keith Carlisle, Freddie Washington, Jon Herrington and Jeff Young (all who have played with Steely Dan backing Walter Becker and Donald Fagen) played on all but one track of Clay Aiken's new CD called On My Way Here. This blog takes a look back at their great contributions to music.

read more digg story

Clay Aiken On My Way Here Kipper Sting Keith Carlock Ready Freddie Washington Jon Herington Jeff Young Steely Dan Donald Fagen Walter Becker Nathaniel Kunkel Cameron Craig Amy Winehouse Pop Music Rock Music Jazz, blue Music Criticism Jaymes Foster American Idol Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Grammy Awards Chris Botti Dean Gordon Smith Linda Ryan Mikael Wood Harold Cohen

DWTS: Viennese Waltz

2008-05-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

Check out this beautiful montage of the Viennese Waltz DWTS group dance set to "Sacrificial Love" from the On My Way Here CD.

Technorati Tags: Dancing With the Stars DWTS Viennese Waltz CRISTIÁN DE LA FUENTE CHERYL BURKE SHANNON ELIZABETH DEREK HOUGH MARLEE MATLIN FABIAN SANCHEZ PRISCILLA PRESLEY LOUIS VAN AMSTEL Clay Aiken Sacrificial Love

On My Way Here

2008-05-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

On My Way Home was released this week. It features an eclectic mix of music from symphonic ballads, midtempo pop-rock, to a song with R&B flavor, one with a bit of country, and a beautiful, jazzy love song. I've never loved all songs on any album before, not even other Clay Aiken albums, but I truly can't pick a true favorite this time. There isn't one song I feel compelled to skip. Three that really stand out to me are "Where I Draw The Line", "Sacrificial Love", and "As Long As We're Here". Tomorrow there will three other stand-outs. Special mention for the best song on the album, "Lover All Alone". This song was a bonus with the iTunes purchase of A Thousand Different Ways and is now the the physical CD of OTWH. "Lover All Alone" was written by Clay (lyrics) and David Foster (music), and remains one of the most lyrically poignant and beautifully melodic songs I've ever heard. Clay might not consider himself a songwriter, but LAA proves that he is.

Clay promoted the album on several shows this week. Here are two performances:

"Ashes", an uptempo songs that is on the Good Morning America website (it was performed but was not show on-air), and "On My Way Here" from The View.

~Ashes~

~On My Way Here~

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The Jeans Are Feelin' Good

2008-05-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

Cute video up at the CBS Website:

Clay Aiken CBS Video Spamalot On My Way Here

An Aural Experience

2008-05-07T15:11:00.000-07:00

You can listen to Clay's entire new album at AOL Listening Party

Also be sure to watch Clay's Good Morning America appearance at the ABC website. There are videos for the on-air interview and performance of "On My Way Home" as well as a website only performance of "Ashes" and another interview.

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Spamalot Auction for Broadway Cares

2008-04-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

Do you have any spare cash lying around the house? I mean a lot of spare cash? *g* If so, you might want to bid on these Spamalot items that were put up for bid on eBay to benefit Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS. Even if you can't bid, it's fun to watch those bids go up.

eBay: Spamalot Auction for Broadway Cares

Items Up For Auction:

*Tickets to SPAMalot and Champagne toast with Clay Aiken

*Dinner with Clay Aiken and SPAMalot cast members

*Assistant" Drummer in SPAMalot

*Clay Aiken's costume from Broadway SPAMalot
Green and white Sir Robin costume worn by Clay Aiken during his run in the Broadway production of Monty Python's SPAMalot. (tabard only). Includes certificate of authenticity signed by Clay Aiken and the SPAMalot costume supervisor.

*Clay Aiken's costume from Broadway SPAMalot
Green and white Sir Robin costume worn by Clay Aiken during his run in the Broadway production of Monty Python's SPAMalot. (gloves only). Includes certificate of authenticity signed by Clay Aiken and the SPAMalot costume supervisor.

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Song Premiere: "On My Way Here" the Single

2008-04-07T05:50:00.000-07:00

The first single, the title track from the album On My Way Here, debuts today on AOL Popeater. You can listen to it here. Just click on the arrow on the music player to start the song.

Pre-order the album at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00130973W

Lyrics

On My Way Here

I took my first step
On that black and white kitchen floor
I sometimes wonder if that house is even there anymore
I had my first glimpse
Of love when I was five
I watched two people split apart
But still the three of us survived
I’ve seen the best
I’ve seen the worst
I wouldn’t change what I’ve been through
I’ve touched the sky
I’ve hit the wall
But I did what I had to

Chorus
On my way here
Where I am now
I’ve learned to fly
I have to want to leave the ground
I’ve fallen hard but I’ve been loved
And in the end it all works out
My faith has conquered fear
On my way here

Oh yeah, yeah

My address has changed
Almost every year
I’ve found that standing still
Can quickly make a lifetime disappear
I’d rather try and fail
A thousand times denied
And at least, whenever you feel pain
It lets you know you’re alive
I’ve been a fool
I’ve been afraid
Yeah, I’ve been loved
I’ve been lied to
I’ve been wrong
And I’ve been right
I stood up when I had to

Chorus

No guarantees
I believed that I would find
An open door or a light
To lead me to the other side
I guess that is why

Chorus

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On My Way Here: Broadway and Beyond

2008-04-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

AI Extra interviewed Clay at the Shubert theater during his Spamalot run for his thoughts on Broadway, NYC, and his new CD.

Watch the video:

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On My Way Here: New Track List Revealed

2008-03-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

From AceShowBiz.com

Clay Aiken has unleashed a new promotional picture, which is said be the advanced version of the cover art, for his upcoming and fourth full-length album "On My Way Here". The American Idol runner-up also reveals the track listing that includes a title track and previously revealed track "Ashes".

As reported earlier, Aiken's album will be released on May 6 via 19Recordings/RCA, featuring a production from Kipper (Sting, Chris Botti). His camp now reveals that Jaymes Foster will once again be back executive producing the album and that one of the tracks in the album will be a Ryan Tedder-written. The OneRepublic frontman wrote the song "On My Way Here" that Aiken "fell in love" with instantly. The lyrics tell how lessons are learned as we grow up and those are what eventually shape us as adults.

"I thought if we could find songs along those lines, that deal with my life over the past five years and what I've learned from my experiences, it would be a great concept for an album," Aiken said. "Since I got into this business, I've learned so much about myself and about life and the world. I'm nowhere near an expert, but this album has taken on the form of addressing how far I've come in those five years and how I feel like I've found myself."

Aiken who made his Broadway debut in January playing Sir Robin in Monty Phyton's Spamalot, has sold more than six million copies from his three albums, "Measure of a Man", 2004's holiday CD "Merry Christmas With Love" and the 2006 "A Thousand Different Ways".

"On My Way Here" Track Listing:

1. On My Way Here
2. Ashes
3. Everything I Don't Need
4. Something About Us
5. Falling
6. Where I Draw The Line
7. The Real Me
8. Weight Of The World
9. As Long As We're Here
10 Sacrificial Love
11. Grace Of God
12. Lover All Alone

Teasers:

Clay Aiken CD On My Way Here Track List

Perfection

2008-03-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

New CD Cover

Order at Amazon

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Clay Aiken Fans Drive CD to #1 on Amazon plus Fan Pictures at the Stage Door

2008-03-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

May 6th seems more and more definite as the release date now that the CD is for pre-sale at Amazon.com. It's already at #1 for new release rank which is an indication of how eager fans are for the new CD of original Clay Aiken music. Now if only there were a nice press release or official word from RCA or a song released to radio. I don't have much faith in their competence since they and the whole record industry is in such a turmoil, but it is what it is.

Order your copy here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00130973W

********************************

While we wait for a new CD, we always have Spamalot. Here are some photos taken by fans after the show at the Stage Door.

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CD News: The countdown begins!!

2008-02-29T10:49:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken CD News

Finally the moment we for which we have been waiting, news on the new CD which will hopefully be out on May 6th or at least before the summer. Clay announced on at this link. There are three videos related to the new album, so make sure you don't miss any.

Clay's theme for the album grew out of a song submitted to him called "On The Way Here", which was written by Ryan Tedder of One Republic. After listening to the lyrics, he noticed that several songs under consideration had the same theme of journey and growth, so the theme of Clay's journey over the last five years was born.

Here are the lyrics:

On My Way Here

I took my first step
On that black and white kitchen floor
I sometimes wonder if that house
Is even there, anymore
I had my first glimpse of love
When I was five
I watched two people split apart
But still the three of us survived

I’ve seen the best
I’ve seen the worst
I wouldn’t change what I’ve been through
I’ve touched the sky
I’ve hit the wall
But I did what I had to
Ooooohhhh

CHORUS:
On my way here
Where I am now
I’ve learned to fly
I have to want to leave the ground
I’ve fallen hard
But I’ve been loved
And in the end it all works out
My faith has conquered fear
On my way here.

Oh yeah yeaaah

My address has changed
Almost every year
I've found that standing still
Can quickly make a lifetime disappear
I'd rather try and fail
A thousand times denied
And this, whenever you feel pain
It lets you know that you’re alive

I’ve been a fool
I’ve been afraid
Yeah, I’ve been loved
I've been lied to
I've been wrong
And I've been right
I stood up when I had to

Yeah Yeahhhh

On my way here
Where I am now
I’ve learned to fly
I have to want to leave the ground
I’ve fallen hard
But I’ve been loved
And in the end it all works out
My faith has conquered fear
On my way here.

No guarantees
I believed that I would find
An open door or a light
To lead me to the other side
I guess that is why

On my way here
Where I am now
I’ve learned to fly
I have to want to leave the ground
I’ve fallen hard
But I‘ve been loved
And in the end it all works out
My faith has conquered fear
On my way here

Yeahhhh
Oooooohh

Here's a cute montage that previews clips of three songs that should be on the album:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken CD On My Way Here lyrics Ryan Tedder WRAL Linda Loveland

Not a Debut For Cowards!

2008-02-25T11:12:00.000-08:00

One fan recently remarked that if the reviews of Clay's performance in Spamalot weren't good, she would be calling the reviewer a liar. You might think, "what else would a fan say", but the truth is everything Clay Aiken does is analyzed to the nth degree by the fandom. In many ways, some fans are harder on him than any critic could be, but with Spamalot there is seemingly universal agreement that he taken this role, and kicked it to the curb. The great thing is that he is totally out of his comfort zone. He's not exactly experienced in dancing and acting. Singing yes, but not doing it while acting and dancing. He has surpassed fans' expectations with this role and hopefully his own. He might just have found his grail on Broadway or at least part of his grail.

Review by Newsday :

Review: Clay Aiken fits as Sir Robin in 'Spamalot

BY LINDA WINER

Hey, it's not dead yet. In the words of one of the supremely goofy bad-taste delights from "Monty Python's Spamalot," the musical may be approaching its third year at the Shubert Theatre. But the thing's not dead yet - in fact, not even close.

Forgive our suspicion that "Spamalot" might have reached the uh-oh point in its heretofore long and happy run. After all, Clay Aiken, unknown until he was the runner-up in the second season of "American Idol," had been cast, with alarming hoopla, to play Sir Robin and assorted zanies - in a British accent, in a role created on film by (author, lyricist, co-composer) Eric Idle himself and recreated on Broadway by David Hyde Pierce.

We know that Fantasia, Aiken's fellow breakout survivor from gladiator TV, had a phenomenal stage debut last year as a replacement for the star in "The Color Purple." But what are the chances that another newbie from the South with zero stage experience would be able to slip into a high-maintenance Broadway hit without dragging it down like a boulder tied to its soft shoe?

So it's excellent news for Aiken and "Spamalot," not so good for drama schools. Aiken is a charmer. With his aging cherub face and a frizzle-pageboy wig, he goes sweetly and deftly Medieval on Broadway - a world described in the show as "a very special place with people who can sing and dance, often at the same time."And so he does, frequently at the same time. Aiken blends into the sophomoric adorableness of the show, even toying with his own girlish charisma at a piano topped with a Liberace candelabra. His voice has range and color. He dances with a childlike skip, he yodels and sings falsetto and gets through the scenes when Robin "soils himself" with no visible humiliation. This is not a debut for cowards.

Overall, Mike Nichols' cartoon spectacle has been spiffily maintained. The actors - including Jonathan Hadary's little-king Arthur, Christopher Sieber's droll Galahad, David Hibbard's loyal Patsy and Rick Holmes' thoroughly demented French Taunter - play with the abandon of bright kids discovering a new toy. Hannah Waddingham is a force of nature as the many faces and voices of the Lady of the Lake.

For the record, Britney Spears' name has indeed been replaced by Posh Spice in the "Diva's Lament," because, according to the creators, "we don't laugh at sad people." They do, however, laugh at just about everyone else, from Jews to gays to the Finnish. And they still sell the best show-related merchandise on Broadway. Killer-rabbit bunny slippers? Nice touch.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken Spamalot Review Newsday Broadway Linda Winer Fantasia Hannah Waddington