Beyonce's not workin' for me as Etta. I woulda cast Taraji P. Henson. Having seen these artists live, I'll be curious to see how much Hollywood got wrong here...but I do love me some Jeffrey Wright...

Springsteen speaking to 50,000 at a "Vote for Change" rally in Philadelphia on October 4:

"I've spent most of my creative life measuring the distance between the American promise and American reality...the distance between that promise and that reality has never been greater or more painful for people. I think that Senator Obama has taken the measure of that distance in his own life and in his work and I think he understands in his heart the cost of that distance in blood and in suffering in the lives of everyday Americans. And I believe that as President he would work to restore that promise to so many of our fellow citizens who have justifiably lost faith in its meaning...We need somebody to lead us in an American reclamation project."

...first Bernie Mac...then Isaac Hayes.

I enjoyed reading about Isaac's time at Stax in this piece from The Root:

An Ode to Hot Buttered Soul

Jeffrey came home from his gig today having heard the sad news that Hiram Bullock had died. I was so shocked to hear that--he was so young (my age). He was such a huge talent. There are a zillion videos of Hiram's playing to choose from...but I chose this one because he just looked like he was having a good time jamming with Stevie. This is from that fabulous show "Night Music" hosted by David Sanborn. Rest in peace, Hiram. I hope wherever you are, you're kicking some serious ass...

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