Urban Grandstand Digital Issue 12: OJ Da Juiceman | Page 15

t’s so wonderful

to reconnect with

Meelah Williams. As

most know, Williams

has been venturing into the world of acting over the past few years, and she’s now taking a lead in The Baz Brothers production, Strength of Love. It’s an amazing story of love, forgiveness, and all the craziness that can happen in between. Strength of Love will be showing Valentine’s weekend in Griffin, GA.

We took some time to chat with Ms. Williams about her role in this stage play, and what the world can expect from her first leading role.

U.G. Digital Mag: I’m most grateful to you for a few things; one for you sharing your time with me today. Also, you were a tremendous part of our first issue. I’m always forever thankful to you.

Meelah Williams: Thank you for the opportunity. I’m grateful that you even gave me that platform.

U.G. Digital Mag: So we’re together for Strength of Love, but before I even start, I have to get your thoughts on the New Edition movie, considering how instrumental Michael Bivens was in the careers of 702.

Meelah Williams: It really is outstanding. I’ve only seen two parts so far, but the actors have done an amazing job. the actors were spot on. i was there for some of it, but to see it on television, it’s refreshing to see the other side of the industry. A lot of people who want to do this often forget about the other side. It’s not always the glitz and glamour. It’s refreshing that they opened themselves up and allowed them to be there with them. I had no idea that went through all the things they did. It was like 1996 for the Home Again tour. We were clueless to a lot of what happened behind the scenes, but there were times when we definitely felt the tension.

U.G. Digital Mag: When you mention how spot on they were, the kids were really amazing.

Meelah Williams: I know, right?

U.G. Digital Mag: The only who play Mike looked just like him.

Meelah Williams: Isn’t that crazy? I asked where did they find that kid. He had that same swag, cocky arrogance, and the whole Boston swag. Clearly Mike and everyone was instrumental in picking the characters that played them, but it’s amazing they found someone so close. Those kids did an amazing job. The casting for Brooke Payne, from the wire. Wood Harris. I got to catch up with part 3.

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s funny because my son is 10, and he’s enamored with the movie.

Meelah Williams: I’m disappointed I missed last night, but I will definitely catch it.

U.G. Digital Mag: So Strength of Love, it’s such an amazing story. I saw the first run of it, so it’s good to see it back. How is it for you to come in this time around?

Meelah Williams: First, I’m just humbled and flattered for someone to reach out and ask of my interest. It’s always a blessing after all this time that people still call and seek after my talent. Everyone has been so welcoming. I only knew Chandra Currelley because I worked with her for Kandi Burruss’ A Mother’s Love. I was so excited to see Mrs. Chandra again. She’s always great, professional, and so cool. The woman knows what she is doing. I look at her like an auntie. she’s so magical, and anytime I’m in her presence, I’m in awe. She’s so multifaceted. I have to see one of her shows because I love jazz. She’s like someone you’ve known for years. When you go into an ensemble of new people, you never know how it will be. The directors and writers are so chill and laid back. By the second or third rehearsal, they were like family. They’re serious too, but they know how to have fun and make you feel comfortable.

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s something special about The Baz Brothers. Chandra is amazing too, and her background with S.O.S. Band is something else.

Meelah Williams: Listen! That’s good music.

U.G. Digital Mag: But it’s just knowing all she’s done and how humble she is, and how welcoming she is.

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