While I understand that the promoter of the 3 shows didn't hold up his end of the bargain, neither did I apparently. I run this MySpace and FreeMyHeart.com and wasn't informed about the setup of the shows in DC, Charlotte and Atlanta.

The reason this account is here on MySpace and FreeMyHeart.com has been online for over 10 years now is to inform her admirers of what's going on with Meshell musically. Whether that's a new album or an upcoming concert, that's the only reason I put in hours every day to keep each site as up to date as possible.

I personally had thought of flying out from Seattle to catch the NYC show since I haven't seen Meshell perform live since a San Francisco date in 2002. Nevermind what happened in DC or Charlotte -- after hearing about what happened in Atlanta, and the way Meshell took her frustration on those in the front row and later the rest of the audience, I was embarrassed for her.

Yeah, there were a couple of folks taking photos, but this seems to happen at every concert of her's. This will continue since she is always gaining new admirers, and no matter how many times I personally tell people that using flash photography while taking a photo of Meshell can kill her, people will continue to do so unless they are warned THAT NIGHT by Meshell personally before the first note of music is played. I feel it's unfair to blame the fans who might not have seen the "No Flash Photography" signs in the dark venue. It's also unfair to blame them if they don't read their tickets. Folks don't know WHY they are being asked not to use flash photography. They need to be told at the beginning of every show. And the only person they'll listen to is Meshell. But hey, that's just my opinion.

Yeah, it hurt reading what I read about the Atlanta show. Reading and approving of every heartbreaking comment posted by her admirers. Especially those that were at their first Meshell concert, saying it would also be their last. It hurt me knowing that they're going to miss out on what so many of us have experienced seeing Meshell live. To those of you, if you're still reading, this week has been an aberration.

I know that Meshell loves and respects her fans, but from what I've been told by many who were at the Atlanta show, well... let's just say I'm thankful nothing from this past week has been memorialized on Youtube. To me, the water bottle incident, the cursing out folks -- it's just not the Meshell most of us have experienced in a live setting.
 

hey matthew, thanks for the bulletin, someone from atlanta mailed it to me earlier.


i'm going to say a few things about this and then i'm done giving meshell and her " management" any more energy on this. i was finished being upset when i left the show in atlanta, i don't let ANYONE hold that type of power over me, especially someone i don't know, please. when i left a message on your myspace it was out of shock and concern for a lady that i have traveled consistantly to see for over 10 years, and the fans involved...i posted and moved on. now i get messages from people in atlanta concerning THIS statement. so, let me say this:

i've admired this woman for far too long, and for her to sit back and allow her management to make a public statement that, bottom line, makes an attempt to support and justify meshell's physical attack of innocent fans is adding more insult to injury and she should be ashamed. there is NO EXCUSE FOR WHAT SHE DID! NONE!! i was ashamed to witness her, once again, loose control of her emotions and make her entire audience suffer because of her displaced anger and tantrums. it is time for "her" to grow up and take responsibility for her actions. how arrogant of her to not even respond to her fans that would simply like to hear from her (not her "management") as to why/how would/could you do this...then simply apologize. is that asking too much of her? me personally, i don't want an apology from her...i would be satisfied if she would simply stop this childish, juvenile behavior from this point on. i still love meshell and i always will...love doesn't change. it's because i truly love her that i can and will say to her "YOU WERE WRONG". if you TRULY love someone you will not only stand up 'FOR' them when they are right, but, you will also stand up 'TO' them when they are wrong. it's now up to her to drop the displaced anger, humble herself, admit and accept responsibility for 'her wrong doings' at sugarhill. i will not pacify her on this subject and for others to do so, only gives her permission to continue this type of self destructive behavior in the future. like i stated before, she is lucky that no one jumped on the stage and attacked her...is this what her management would like to happen? she has now set the tone, the public knows what she is capable of, even if this was the first time. do you think they will allow her to walk away unscathed again, as the people in atlanta did? i don't think so. all these excuses: 'she's growing' (really, damn?!??). a starstruck fan, especially one who's infatuated/in love will agree with anything a 'star' does and says...that's a fanatic...their response is like that of the abused wife, 'yeah, i know he shouldn't have hit me, but he was mad at his boss and co-workers, so, i understand. they're always hard on him at work and...well...i know he loves me...and...it didn't really hurt that much, so...........' excuses.


let me address this lie from her "management":
"in Atlanta people chose to disregard the requests of no flash photography and pummeled her from the front row until she passed out and fell over -"
MATTHEW, THERE WERE NO 'REQUESTS OF NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY' EVER ANNOUNCED UNTIL AFTER MESHELL FELL OUT. how dare them attempt to lie to the public in order to justify her attack and save face. ask him/her EXACTLY WHEN was this 'request' made, and by whom. honestly, i never heard it and was actually waiting for them to make the announcement, but, that's beside the point anyway. they've danced all around THE REAL SUBJECT IN ATLANTA: MESHELL'S DISRESPECTFUL, DISPLACED ANGER AND AGGRESSIVE ATTACK ON INNOCENT FANS. read his/her statement again and tell me where does he even address her cursing and throwing at her fans...nowhere. this statement is not for the people of atlanta...the complaint wasn't about her choice of songs or horrible sound...it was not music related at all. skating and dancing does not solve the problem.

another bit of information...there is no front 'row' at sugarhill, it's standing room only, so it was the entire front 'section' involved in the water incident. there were many flashes that sugarhill security, her management, the band and she saw long before she fell, but they said nothing. flashes came from everywhere, but the one's on the right side had the greatest affect, that's when she fell, she was looking in that direction. you, me and others who have been here from day one with meshell are aware of her epilepsy and would not do anything to intentionally harm her, others simply don't know. if you had been there you could have seen it coming from a mile away. so, all this weak ass talk about people not following the 'rules' in atlanta is a lie, they never made an announcement. just as her management would like for the promoters to take responsibility for their part in the breaksdowns at her shows, they should take responsibility for theirs also.


matt, your first response to her management on myspace was on point, but, unfortunately it will once again fall on deaf ears. look at the responses...more excuses while the REAL SUBJECT fades in the background. meshell and her management will continue to be irresponsible when handling her affairs, they will not make it a PRIORITY to make announcements throughout the night at EVERY VENUE BEFORE SHE COMES ON STAGE...this is fucking serious, she could die! i've traveled to many cities and when they had made the announcement only one person at two venues flashed and they were escorted away. i'm only responding to you because i know you truly love meshell and want what's best for her also, but you are not a fanatic, wanna be lover, stan, stalker that can't/won't differenciate between what's proper and improper for an artist in regards to their fans...even when it comes to meshell. i respect you for that.

anyway, the true subject of discussion in atlanta was swept into a pile, lost within cliches of "crowd expectations" and such, and a nice boquet sonopsis carpet of what a great artist she is was placed on top to hide the dirt beneath.(the real issue)

will i stop listening to her music? of course not...i can seperate the two...music vs her personal issues, sad to say, but live performance may be another story.

again, i pray for meshell's health as always and will continue to do so. my best to all involved...
 

none of you get it - despite of how meshell acts or doesn't, she is who she is - and always been. Nothing different there. The problem is that we were supposed to play a few songs, and then introduced dude - when we realized that wasn't the case, we should've just left. As per contract, we would still be paid. But we all agreed that it wouldn't be fair to the crowd. So we stayed. Sugarhill was mostly the problem - it's not the type of place for her to play, it has the "regular" crowd, people who just goes regardless of who's playing that night. "oh, yeah, I remember her! she sings "boyfriend", right?" - that's the type of audience. From the stage, we couldn't even hear the band - the "front section" couldn't stop screaming during the songs, all the "I love yous" and "you're hot" nonsense, things a real fan, someone who knows her music, wouldn't do - after all, you're there to hear the music. Also, that sucks for everybody else who doesn't go to Sugarhill normally, and is there to actually hear her music. The whole "water bottle" (it's just water, give me a break) was because of that - not because of the flashes. I was surprised twice on that show - first, that she didn't leave the stage after a few songs, due to the disrespect of a lot of people of the "front section" - and that she went back to play after having a seizure. But we know that no matter what, at the end people love to blame somebody, and it will be her. I wish people who know her as the "john cougar mellencamp duet" and "boyfriend" artist would just stay home. Period.
 

This pretty much sums up how I would've responded if I had gone to the show. It sums up how I felt after reading all of those that left responses and comments on Meshell's MySpace immediately following the concert, but have not yet responded to Meshell's manager's "response," whether it be because they removed Meshell as a friend and didn't see the bulletin or blog entry, or because they feel their reply will not be read by someone that can make a difference, etc.

Thank you for taking the time to reply, and as I've said to everyone else even though it's not my responsibility to do so, I apologize for what you experienced that night.
 

Thank you Mathew for all that you have done. I am one of the many who would like to be considered a timeless dedicated fan. I love all the music she has done.. I don’t hold anger or bitterness..
hummmmmmm I guess I wanted to enjoy the event so badly and I am sure we all did .. Each time I have left I receive a gift of newness and respect for meshell.. I am not into the ying and the yang of no meat eating type of fan nor would I commit to saying you are my world or your a goddess.. I just like your music I don’t know you nor do I feel connected to your soul because I am well centered in who I am and respect you.. I feel a connection to your music... I don’t claim to know you or do I own you.

I have been close meeting you and in las Vegas when you opened at the mirage for Cheryl Crow i was there and was lucky enough to get Cato to give me his backstage pass.. You were not In your dressing room.. Some guy was but I touched your name on the door... i when on the bus and I froze.. Just to find out that you were in the arena walking around and talking to my best friend that i would not share my pass with..

That is as close as i have been to you other then the 4 times i saw you and stood right under your mic ............... ATL.. STILL WET ... not mad just hurt.. That was the first time I saw your eyes just look in my direction ... and the words were not lyrics but words that I will never forget...

I am still .................
meshell manager .. I read your excuse....
Excuse
Excuse
Excuse
Excuse????
1 no amusements was made about the flash photo NONE i was in line wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy before the door opened.. Briskly walked to the front (right under her mike sat on the ini stage and studied every part of the show...
NO ANOUCEMENT WAS MADE if you made it Mr. manager and if you were so concerned and did not want her to continue … then why did you not.. Come to the mic make a public announcement and tell us to STOP It and that she will come back and give us a show as long as we understood.. or something like that… we were concerned too .. but we stood there not knowing weather to leave or would the show continue…
OR???????????? WERE YOU PISSED OFF TOO AND YOU WANTED US TO KISS YOUR AS TOO??

NOT TO MENTION.. OK.. IF SHE WOUKD HAVE NOT GIVEN US A SHOW AND ONLY DID ONE SONG YOU PROB WOULD HAVE BEEN SUED FOR NOT DOING THE SHOW???? COMMON NOW. HOW CONSERNED WERE YOU!!!????
ABOUT US ?? ABOUT MESHELL? ABOUT YOUR PAY??
Passed out fell over?? i saw her fall to the ground and she was moving and the big white guy rubbed her back and attempted to calm her ..

She was off the stage for about 15 min and the band continued to play the song.. And the gogo dancer kept dancing ... lol even with me for a min .. I loved that ...
but the show did go on...thank you .. I think even though you kept cussing and told us that all folks … like a old cartoon bunny as though you said fuck you..
Are you saying that we should be grateful????
or that we are ungrateful to not understanding her. I was in the front I got wet for something i did not do!!!!!!!!!!!
And you have an excuse??????
Just please understand that she is human????
I am too and i am hurt.
A emotionally wet human meshell fan...

p.s.
Allow me to vent and deal with it the way I deal… please others do not bore me with you.. Issues of what I have to say … you were not in my shoes or the others directly wet at the ATL show … to the girls that were in the right hand corner of the stage who took the shots … I watched you as you took many others of Wellngton… and giggled as you drank and burned a nag chumpa on stage… if you would have not taken the pic .. Would she still be able to look beyond the prissiness of the promoter???? Hummmmmmmmm we will never know.. Was that the last straw??? Who knows…. I do hope the fukin pic was worth it
Don’t get it twisted
 

Robin, in no way was I connected to the show... and with that said, I can't help but apologize to you... because someone should. Although it hurt to read, thank you for your honesty and not being afraid to share with the rest of us what you experienced. Again, I'm sorry.
 

I had NO idea that Meshell has epilepsy! And I'm a fan from the first album until now, but I guess the music came before her personal business. I'm glad she can still press on and serve up a great performance, despite the condition. Now I can put the NYC performance in perspective, having learned this. But a rule is a rule. If you tell people flash photography is prohibited, "but why" is a question best left to children. Everyone looked grown to me! Thanks for the updates.
 

The greatest thing about REAL artist is simple...they are human and entitled to colds, illnesses and female issues. MeShell bravo for continuing inspite of vicious fans and idiot promoters you MUST deal with in your craft. Continue striving for your best and beuty will always shine.

A much appreciated fan
 

Meshell.... your true fans understand..... love and appreciate you! I know that your experience in Atlanta was horrible and terribly unfortunate. I hope this does not stop you from coming here. If you choose not to come back to Atlanta.... I will travel to see you, as I have done many times in the past. You are my favorite artist hands down..... always have.... and always will be.......
 

I'M SO MAD I MISSED MESHELL IN DC. I WOULD HAVE LOVE TO BE THERE! I KNOW MESHELL PUT ON A HELL OF A SHOW! SHE IS SO TALENTED. NOW I HAVE ONE REQUEST MESHELL. . . . THE SONG "TALK" THAT YOU DID FOR THE NOAH'S ARC SHOW, CAN YOU PLEASE PUT IT ON YOUR NEXT ALBUM! ALL THE NOAH'S ARC FANS WANT TO NO WHAT IS THE NAME OF THAT SONG AND WHO SINGS IT. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR ALL THE WORK YOU DID FOR THE SHOW! YOUR MUSIC ADD A SPECIAL "UMPH" TO EVERY EPISODE! ANYWAY LOVE YOUR WORK MAMA. . . . TTYL. . . . BIG HUGS AND KISSES
 

and this iz why we love her so..
much love & respect

DeHaven
www.myspace.com/olio
 

WOW never heard of word of this over here on the West Coast so sorry to hear about the disaster in Atlanta. Being the Director of a Convention Center I can tell you that most people are not respectful of venue rules so the "no flash photography" is literally not even considered in most places its almost blatant disregard especially now the age of camera phones I see that so much in abundance people have no regard for the performer :(

I hope Meshell is feeling better and if she could take a moment at the beginning to address the "no flash photography" _policy_ I fear people will act ignorant and idignant about the whole thing (smh)
 

This is peace. I truly believed she would do no thing of the such. She is a goddess, skilled and patiently humble in her art. As you stated but not in your words "She was edged on". Three strikes you're out type of fiasco!! Be well and I'm truly happy you brought some understanding to this matter...Peace & Blessings KHM
 

this is actually off the subject of what happened at those shows but i would like to say that it really bothers me that artists choose to only do new songs instead of a selection of the old with the new. i understand and respect that artists as well as people in general do not want to live in the past because when you do that you cannot "grow", but a lot of fans have been there from the beginning and would love to hear the previous songs that made them a fan. madonna did the same thing and as well as prince. prince is going on tour in europe and is doing different songs each night which is a cool concept. but i myself would like to get the show that everyone else is getting. to me its selifish for artists to only do what they want to do instead of what fans would like to hear. after all your past made you who you are today and it is an indicator of the future. hell even tina did songs from the ike and tina days!!!!
 

YOUR RESPONSE IS UNDERSTOOD TO THOSE WHOM DEWELL IN THE PAST. I NEED TO KNOW HOW FAR AN ARTIST HAS GROWN FROM THEIR LAST CD. AFTER ALL, WE AS FANS BUY THERE CD'S BECAUSE OF THEIR NEW MUSIC. NICE TRY " THE GLOW OF JASON"
 

jason.

In a 2001 interview, it's was mentioned that Meshell has over 200 unreleased songs. I'd rather hear ONLY new music when I go to her shows. I can listen to her albums anytime. (Pun intended.)

So while I may be in the minority on this, we'll have to agree to disagree :)
 

i hear ya matthew,
but im not saying only play old songs. just a variety thats all. not every fan is into the new stuff. i would love to hear unreleased music as well. but if thats all an artists plays than the audience will be at a distance. fans should hear the old and the new. but i understand what u r saying.
 

Yeah, I think artists should always throw something in from their back catalog. Prince will always have to play "Purple Rain," Maxwell "Ascension," Nikka Costa "Everybody Got Their Something," but I don't think Meshell will ever play "Boyfriend" again ;) One of my favorite live moments was Meshell stopping "Boyfriend" mid-song a couple of years ago and saying "I don't feel like playing that anymore." I don't think she has since... lol
 

that is AWESOME, do you have a recording of that matthew?

who the hell wants to play the same shit 1000 times? jason, i understand where you're coming from, i go back and listen to my favorite albums over and over and i'd love to hear that stuff done live, but hey, i'd much rather hear someone performing ANYTHING that they REALLY FEEL than give me a performance of something familiar that they're not really into because its been worn out. do you go for image and familiarity or substance and embrace the unknown?
 

to answer your questions justin.

who the hell wants to play the same shit 1000 times?

recording artists thats what they do, if they don't like touring and playing the same songs over and over then they shouldnt tour. i just feel that "some" artists have a selfish point of view when they tour. all i am saying is that if you have a fanbase an artist should a mixture of old and new.

to answer your last question....

do you go for image and familiarity or substance and embrace the unknown?

both
 

i gotta jump in here and throw my cents in too. I honestly don't care if an artist plays old songs or new songs or both....as long as WHATEVER they play, they are INTO it and FEELING it. THATS what i get off on, going to se an artists who is really into what they are playing. Those are always the best most satisfying shows for me.

In essensce, if an artist is playing for their OWN enjoyment and satisfaction, then in my opinion that shows and it comes across much more powerfully and tangibly to the audience as well. WE feel it when THEY feel it. It doesn't matter if the song is old or new...if the FEELING & SINCERITY is there when the artist exploring & expressing the tune, then it will connect MUCH more profoundly to the audience.

Theres nothing worse than going to a show where an artist is playing songs they arent REALLY into at the moment JUST because they think that thats what the audience thinks it wants to hear. In most cases chances are what you'll get there is a tepid, static uninspired preformance. blah...who wants that.

So nah, i want Meshell to play whatever the hell she's most into at the moment...i don't care WHAT it is, old or new...if SHE's feeling it then i have no doubt that she and her musicians will have the ability to express it in a way that WE can feel it too. THATS what I'm there for. That musical journey...that exploration of the unknown & unexpected...THATS why i've been a fan of hers for so long...because she's not afraid to take off and GO there...
 

i agree.....however i am saying that an artist should not only concentrate on how they are feeling or what they're into at the moment.......they owe something to their fans. playing songs that fans made hits is not asking a lot. a mixture of old and new i feel is not asking a lot. throw the old songs into a medley why not musically say thank u to the fans for the support over the years....that's just me though. i would love to hear outside your door, love song number 1, dredloc, leviticus, who is he and what..., if thats your boyfriend.....what is wrong with hearing some of those songs and hearing the new material? every1 is not into the new stuff.
 

Very late in the day response but-

I think most people who think like you with regards to hearing the hits il the breakadawn are just at a point in your life where you've stopped growing socially and artistically.
Therefore, the music you remember at your most receptive period of growth is what you want to hear til you die.

It's like a mid-age crisis musically. It's not your fault, you should proabably start buying into 'Best OF' compilations and Re-union <myspace>style</myspace> events-there's a huge market for it!
 

good post derek

my best to you...
 

I saw Meshell performing in Montpellier (France), it was the best gig I've ever seen in hundreds of concerts I attended in my whole life.
She's just amazing, a Genius!!
 

Sis you need to come back to B'more's ARTSCAPE festival it's outside no flashes and you can just do your thang.....we LOVE true artist here.
 

GOOD EVENING MS MESHELL,

YOU'RE A BITTER SWEET FLOWER THAT FLOWS THUR US LIKE A BRAND NEW HORIZON.
YOUR MUSIC SOARS WAY BEYOND THE FLAVOR OF MUSIC WE HEAR TO DATE.
I CANT EXPRESS ENOUGH, IT'S NOT WHAT PEOPLE SAY TO YOU IT'S HOW YOU REACT TO IT; WHICH DETERMINES WHO YOU REALLY ARE INSIDE. YOU YOUNG LADY CHOSE TO LET THE MUSIC PLAY..! I'M VERY HONORED TO BE YOUR FRIEND. THANKS FOR THE AWESOME SHOW IN SAN FRANCISCO, CA. PEACE MY LOVE.
 

Meshell is Meshell...as quoted "Expectations can only cause suffering" the whole point of doing a show is for people to hear the new music- stop being fickle people! and there is an existance called 'human'. While also having to deal with "other peoples" mistakes!
 

me personally..i want to hear it all, i want to hear every last song she's written until she stops writng!!!! and if that day ever comes, itll be unfortunate. she's a great aartist, and like others have said she's human....i think id be kinda pissed too if someone or a group of people were doingg things that could potentially kill me!!!!!!!!! i love meshell, and will forever continue to support her!!!!

ps tyhe DC show wasnt that bad..it was just short!!![i grooved to the new as well as the old]
 

I ATTENDED A MESHELL CONCERT A FEW YEARS AGO AND IT WAS IN MY TOP FIVE OF CONCERTS THAT I HAVE ATTENDED. THE BAND WAS TIGHT, THE VENUE WAS SMALL AND INTIMATE, AND IT WAS JUST A GREAT EXPERIENCE. IT AMAZES ME THAT SOME ADULTS CAN NOT FOLLOW DIRECTIONS. YES I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A PERSONAL PIC OF MESHELL BUT IF IT SAYS NO FLASH, PEOPLE THAT MEANS NO FLASH. PLEASE DO NOT RUIN THINGS FOR EVERYONE ELSE. PEACE.

RICHARD
A HUGE FAN FROM DETROIT
 

I loved Meshell ever since I first saw her perform on Soul Train in 1993 (That's right The Train in 93!) and flipped when I realized that she grew up not far from me. Like I stated in my comment earlier this week, we all have our good and bad days as she had. That should be forgiven because it wasn't in HER CONTROL. Physically sick as she was Thursday nite in DC, she still rocked!

By the way, every drummer she has is on point! From Sean Rickman, Chris Dave, to the current skins beater!
 

Dear Fellow followers, I have been here since the beginning. I have seen Meshell at least a dozen times over all these years:) I recently saw her @ Temple Bar in LA and she played new stuff if i am not mistaken...I appreciate her growth and change! Don't get me wrong, in my heart i wish she was still our BEAUTIFUL secret! Change is good and i am always excited to find out what she has been going thru...ya feel me? i second the thought i can listen to her old stuff at arms length. So with that being said Girl sorry you went thru sum shit on those gigs! I have met you on a few occasions and KNOW that you MUST have been pushed! Madlove for you and always much respect!
Peace, Dana
 

I love you Meshell! You are a true artist who I respect and admire so much. I've seen your show in San Diego twice, and it's a spiritual experience for me. You remind me of the importance to stay true to oneself and to never sell out.

Love and Respect.

Thank You!

~Alia
 

Thank you, Matthew. You've echoed a lot of what I've been posting on the Comments section. I really challenge all the people filled with vehement hateration to stop typing your knee-jerk reactions a mile a minute & just **think** for a second what it must have been like on the other side of the audience at SugarHill in Atlanta last Saturday night--for Meshell AND for her band. Let's face it-they all could have walked off, too, and may have had a hand in convincing her to come back onstage. Inserting my personal shout-out HERE to the phenomenal musicians that played with her.

I'm not ashamed to say it--I CRIED at the front of that stage for so many reasons...when I was confused by her squinting really hard and trying to cover her eyes to the point where she fell (someone had the audacity to comment that Meshell had a responsibility to alert the audience THEN what was about to happen...I'm sure this person has never had a seizure or been around anyone with a similar condition before)--I thought initially that it was part of the show! I thought she was gonna speak into the mic in her deep, sexy voice from a prostrate position or simply jump back up! ...until the guitar player stopped playing to help her.

So in the midst of the awful comments, snickering, and gasps from the audience--even a friend of a friend of a friend standing there fussing about how Meshell "...better get back up! I want my $25 dollars-worth. dammit!" I was so ashamed to be standing next to them.
I just turned my back to them, determined to tune them out for the rest of the evening-whatever happened-sat sideways on the stage and sent all the positive energy I could to her. I hoped she would be okay, but would have been just as content to go home after W. Ellington Felton's fabulous set and 1/2 a song from Meshell knowing that she would be on the mend.

BUT, she came back. She vented her anger and frustration, but kept playing. She didn't have to come back. So I felt myself tearing up again when she started into the next song (the Sloganeer? or was that first? the order is a blur now). I was SAD that she had been disrespected and vilified by the audience and that she couldn't possibly enjoy the show the way she usually does herself, which is such a joy to watch. I was PISSED at the stupid heifers around me saying she wasn't playing any songs they knew and how she passed out 'because she had all them hot ass clothes on', then I was right next to that drum kit that brother was going OFF on so I allowed myself to go into a bit of a trance, peeking between the cymbals at Meshell while she did the cute lil bob-n-weave move when I think she must be feeling the bass and the rhythm in her toes.

That's why she was there, and that's why we were all there. I will go with her wherever she goes musically (her's and Sy Smith's version of "Fantasy" by Earth, Wind and Fire is the ISSSHH!!). My expectations were just to be engulfed in her and her band's minute-by-minute creations so, as selfish as I feel for saying it in light of what went down, I got exactly what I wanted. I'd go so far to say that I wish I would have been the ONLY person that got wet cause it would have been from her bottle!! :) Do I sound like a true 'fanatic'?

I will continue to buy my tickets well in advance of ANY and EVERY show I ever hear she's doing in Atlanta--other cities if I'm able to travel. Ever since the day I happened to tune into the video for 'Dred Loc' on Video Soul, I've been waiting with bated breath for her next, and her next and I will KEEP following.

Sorry this is so long! I just needed to put it all down, and not in bits and pieces so I can lay it to rest and move on.
I can't wait for "The World Has Made Me the Man of My Dreams!" I already have it on my WishList at Amazon.com. :)

Be well, y'all.
 

Everyone should respect each other, period. From the promoters, managers to the fans, we go to/put on shows to have a great time listening to great music from great artists, not to complain about not hearing your favorite song or what not.

Me'shell didn't have to deliver due to misrepresentation, yet she did. And what did she get in return, total disrepect from the concert promoter and some folks in the audience. People were flashing cameras in Me'shell's face, causing her to pass out. I witnessed this for the first (notice I mention first) time at a Tower Records signing I help put together a few years ago. Heck I was frightened for Me'shell, constantly get "flashed" after repeatedly telling customers to not take a flash photo. Then a year or so later at the Essence Festival, the same thing happenned again; people flashing photos after being reminded not to do this and Me'shell nearly passes out.

Meshell's TRUE admirers know she has an ailment which reacts when flashes of bright lights hit her eyes. So shame on those who knew of this, yet instead choosed to be selfish and rude. I would've walked off the stage in frustration!
 

(hey matt if you post this use this one V)

all i can do is echo what matthew already said in his initial response on myspace. he pretty much hit the nail on the head. bad crap is GONNA happen sometimes. the only way to minimize it is up front clear communication, communication, communication...no other way around it.

well, look...it's obviously been a rough week or so for Meshell herself and many of us longtime fans.

I am disappointed ...disappointed at how things were handled (by the promoter, by the clubs, by some fans, and, based on what some have posted about certain situations, by meshell herself). there is no excuse for any of that. but whats done is done.

I often tell my kids that 'hey, at some point in their lives EVERYone is going to have SOMEthing bad happen to them, or find themselves in a bad situation, or do something that puts themselves in a bad situation. everyone. Thats GONNA happen, there aint no way around it. BUT...the important thing is how you HANDLE that situation. How you HANDLE a tough situation can determine whether you can grow something good from it, or whether it weighs you down and smothers the potential for growth.'

but hey...i'm not Oprah and ya'll aren't my kids so i'll shut up on all of that mumbo jumbo for now :)

so yeah, i won't lie, it was tough reading about some of what has happened recently.
i felt a bunch of things, disappointment, anger, sadness, frustration.

I found myself bummed and wondered why...

I was sad for meshell (who was obviously going through SOMEthing, though i could only guess at what it was at that point)

I was sad for the folks I know who spent time and money to travel far to see gigs based on my suggestion and high praise of her past shows.

And what is most interesting is that, i found myself feeling MOST sad for the POTENTIAL new fans who, based on their rough initial experience, will now turn and walk away wondering what all the hype was about... never to look back. Oh i don't blame at all for feeling that way. not at all. I'm just genuinely saddened that THEIR first Meshell show didn't have the same mindblowing positive impact that MY first Meshell show did back in 1996. I felt bad that some of these recent experiences will sour them on Mehsells music for good, and they'll miss out on all of the creativity that those of us who have been around for years KNOWS she's got in her.

yup that bums the hell outta me for real.

but like i said, whats done is done.

the only question now is...how are we gonna handle it?

we.

Meshell, management, old fans, new fans?

what are we gonna do now?

well, if anyone cares, as for me...without making ANY excuses for what has happened recently...I aint going nowhere.

I'm a fan of her work. I KNOW what this artist is capable of.

...my only expectations from her as an artist are that she be as fearless as she can & honest in the pursuit of her song...i dont care what <myspace>style</myspace> she plays....as long as she plays it with passion and creativity, and gives it all she's got, then i'm there. I am perfectly happy if she sings or doesn't sing, plays an instrument or doesn't play an instrument, plays new stuff or plays old stuff, faces the crowd or has her back to the crowd. None of that stuff matters to me, AS LONG as she is INTO the music and expressing it and sharing it with us. Thats ALL i care about. THATS what does it for me.

...surprisingly to myself though, rightly or wrongly, i find i do have some expectations of her as a fellow person. Be conscientious. Be aware that, while there will ALWAYS be SOME in the audience who 'don't get it' or 'aren't ready' for a new direction...there will ALSO ALWAYS be OTHERS in the audience who ARE looking to go on the SAME musical journey that YOU want to go on. So you just CANT let the ones who don't want to move and grow and take chances GET you down. It may piss you off, or bumm you out for a while, but you cant let it get you DOWN. You just cant. If you do, they'll spoil it for the REST of us, you included. Just let that crap roll off yer back. Don't even waste any energy thinking about the ones who DON'T wanna hear it, just get YOUR groove on no matter what...you do THAT and trust me, those of us who DO wanna hear it will be grooving right there WITH ya. Don't give up on us, we wont give up on you.

...fans...musically speaking, if you DON'T know by now, lets make it clear...musically, leave ANY expectations you have on what songs she might play, what <myspace>style</myspace> of music she's is gonna play...leave those expectations at the door...just forget em. With Meshell she's gonna shoot from the hip as far as all that is concerned, and I for one wouldn't have it ANY other way. I LOVE not knowing what setlist or <myspace>style</myspace> to expect at a gig...thats actually one of the reasons i dig her shows so much. So if you can't deal with that, then please just move along.

so...here we are...

...in this big ol empty room...

(whoops...sorry wrong board...heheh...)

Seriously though...for those still sticking around for the rest of the ride, here's to us ALL getting past this rough week or so, shaking it off and getting back to the MUSIC again. Thats what brought us all together in the first place after all right?

peace and good music folks...
 

Meshell, you can do your new stuff anytime and anywhere for me I will always be a fan. And if you come to NY again I promise to protect you from the flash.
 

i saw meshell in los angeles and was confused with her having her back to us and her eyes closed when facing us... i wrote matthew and he explained to me! i have LUVED meshell and her music for YEARS, but had NEVER known about her epilepsy (sp?) either... once it was explained, i got it! i will ALWAYS like her music, respect her as a musician, but i do think that her anger should be kept under control! [once saw her at la pride and she got mad at someone there too... was not pretty]...

venues should tell folks about the "flash issue" when taking tickets and stamping hands (checking i.d.s)... most people do not know~ we love you meshell and will support you no matter what~ just remember though that we love you unconditionally and sometimes we need the same!

thanks~
 

put me at the door. i'll make SURE that everybody understands the rules before entry or NO entry.
 

Hi Meshell,

First, have a good mother's day... it's more important then all those negative vibes from last week.
You are a woman (not a machine) who wants to express her feels, her life, her music... Not somebody who wants to play a hundred of time the same old songs...

People will never be happy ! If you would play old songs, they would say she has nothing new.

Old Song or New Song...The most important, please BE HAPPY IN WHAT YOU DO... please CONTINUE TO HAVE FUN... please BE FREE AND POSITIVE... please continue to CREATE...

Keep your energy for some GOOD !

Continue to do your new songs, you are FREE !!

FREE YOUR HEART...
THANKS TO YOU MATTHEW !!!

Take good care,
Positive Vibes

Stefany
 

I have no idea what happened in any of these cities,,, BUT ... Just wanted Meshell to know we are so excited that she is coming to Memphis!!!
 

meshell coming to memphis??? I lived in memphis for 11 years and she never came and the rumer was there every year .. I have looked for the listing for a memphis show since I saw your post ........................
if you see a lisitng for memphis please send to me ..lol.. hell ill even buy the tickets .... and go... lol but i am sure there is no show fell for that too many times had to fly to vegas, denver , atlanta, ect.....
 

I understand why MESHELL acted as she did. However, the fans in ATL didnt know she had any conditions and I don't recall anyone saying no flash pictures. Also, I didnt expect anything from MESHELL except to see her in person and oh boi she is hot but what bothered me was how she reacted to the audience. Some people can be ignorant, however, not all of us are. So next time, please say something like for those of you who are ignorant kiss my ass, for the rest of you I love you and thanks for being my fans OR don't say anything at all because I'd hate to know people stopped listening to you because of your reactions to their actions. MESHELL, thanks for coming back out. I would like to see you in concert again but only if I know for sure it's you who are the main attraction and not a new artist. I like all of your music, new or old. I just wanna look at you and see how you vibe. GOD bless!
 

Ok, everyone feels that their point is more valid than the previous point. Human Nature I suppose. While I realize that my posting is MUCH later than the last, I feel the need to say something. I heard about some kinda up-roar/ anger over her "performance" and it took me back to a show of hers I attended in Chicago a few years ago. She was introducing "The Spirit Music Jamia: Dance of the Infidel". People attending the concert were flat out acting STUPID over her not playing old songs, almost to the point of booing her. Needless to say, my husband and I were in shock over others behaviors and got quite angry because we could not hear the music over the disrespectful comments from her so called "FANS". Well, it turned out in our favor because as the show continued, many people left the venue and we were able to casually walk to the front take a seat and enjoy the music as it was intended to be heard. I say all of this to only make one solid point, this is not Meshell acting out of character this is Meshell....AND SHE IS AN ARTIST NOT AN ENTERTAINER! It is simply called RESPECT for the ARTS. I really doubt she cares if she makes a dime, she is here to play music, period.
 

Wow... this is crazy...

A really long time ago, I actually met Meshell on the street in New York, she was either going to or coming from Joe's Pub. It was one of those wierd NYC moments where you know someone who knows someone. I can honestly say...her energy, her spirit... is beautiful. I was totally nosey and asked when she'd be releasing a new album and she told me she was working on "cookie". So yeah... a while ago. She's a tiny, perfectly shaped-headed, goregous soul! -- The thing is this, people protecting their health, and repeatedly being disresepected is going to cause an emotional outburst! I don't blame Meshell for wanting to protect herself, she has a son, a family and herself to look after and honestly, that has to come before overzealous fans, greedy promoters and the like. She's an artist and I know she'll continue to do what she does. And, people who don't respect the welfare of one another will continue to suffer the wrath, not just hers but anyone who's life goes beyond what they do, and is focused on who they really are. Blessings Meshell, you are and were right! Don't doubt it.
 

That awful about the promoters and the fans. Anyone 1/2 way intelligent would know that about all artists especially Meshell.
 

being a promotor/prod mgr/performer etc., i can't help but wade in here and note that there should never be any surprises on the other end of things, if the foot is not firmly placed on the path...obvious lapses in communication and "will", will ultimately be an abberration in what, should, and is, a generally "balanced" set of parameters, agreed upon prior the event. mishie really must be on point to let people know that flashes will interrupty her equilibrium...mishie is my personal name for ms. ngedecello and she won't remember (and, then again, maybe she will), but we met at central park summerstage a few years back when she turned out yet aGIN ANOTHER GRERAT SHOW! As far as the "promotor" is concerned, well, ya know, the botton line in a capitalist state is how do we maximize a profit?...sounds like a nice thing if we can just agree upon how to conduct bidness in the short term...for long term mutual benefit...if that's not the starting point and it's "just another gig", then it be4comes less than what it wa meant to be. love2umish...peaceout1lovelei
 

travel safe.. i'm in alabama tonight. til then. thnx.
 

Classy...

The music speaks for it's self. Healing is the music! A remedy I'm sure you know well.

Blessings!
Kia Rene
 

It really surprises me that "fans" are so selfish in what they want. They should first want the aritst to be healthy (mentally, physically, and spiritually) so she can continue to grace us with her artistry. Yes, I would have been very disappointed if I had been there and didn't get an opportunity to hear her, but her health needs come before ANYTHING including unrealistic wants! Now that everyone has gotten the word, no flash pictures...can we please just move forward and let her do her thing.

I love her music and I have heard repeatedly that she has a beautiful spirit. Keep up the good work and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE COME TO DETROIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

peace, love, and blessings