Latest news with #Damage
Daily Mail
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE 90s boyband Damage reveal they were forced to dress femininely so they weren't seen as 'dangerous' as they detail music industry racism - and their surprising new careers
Legendary R&B boyband Damage have revealed the shocking racism they faced in the Nineties and how a lack of support with their mental health led them to forge new careers beyond the spotlight. In an exclusive interview with MailOnline, the group - now in their 40s - explained they were forced to dress and act a certain way in order to avoid being perceived as 'dangerous', and had to fight for press coverage after being told 'black faces don't sell magazines'. Originally formed by Jade Jones, Andrez Harriott, Rahsaan J. Bromfield, Noel Simpson, and Coreé Richards, Damage burst onto the scene with their groundbreaking debut album Forever in 1995. Coreé left the band in 2001, shortly after the release of their second album, Since You've Been Gone. Today, Damage are recognised as one of the UK's most influential R&B groups, having sold over four million records worldwide - but their path to success was anything but easy. Jade, who is married to fellow pop star Emma Bunton, explained: 'Being five black guys in a band, there was an image that had to be portrayed, you know, for it to be palatable for, for the pop market.' He continued: 'We only got put on the cover of Smash Hits through fighting [for it]. We were told we weren't allowed to be on the cover before because black faces didn't sell magazines in the 90s. 'Therefore, for them to make it more palatable for everybody, we had to do a shoot, which was definitely not our style at the time, but it was something we had to swallow. 'There a picture of us with pastel coloured suits on, with flowers and roses all around us. 'Boyband Five were out at the time and they were able to dress and act however they wanted. We had to act a certain way. 'Not saying that we were bad boys. We never were, but we could never portray ourselves or even have an inkling of any aggression about us or any attitude, otherwise we just get shut down.' MailOnline has contacted Smash Hits for comment. Noel added: 'We could never ever be portrayed as the bad boys of pop. Our stuff would have been cancelled straight away.' Sharing his thoughts, Andrez said: 'There were bands like Five, NSYNC which all come down the lineage of people like New Kids on the Block, which come down the lineage of the Jackson 5, etc. 'All those bands, they could take American clothing, American language, use American music producers, and create R&B songs.' He continued: 'And when Damage would do something like a cover of an Earth, Wind and Fire song, which should have been a massive hit, radio struggled to play it. 'There is a really restrictive, dominant, paradigm that black males have to fit into. 'And there is unconsciously and consciously an idea that we are dangerous, and for us as young black males, we have to provide a counter narrative to that nonsense just to be us. 'I remember our record label, we went to Aquascutum to get jackets in central London and the English gentleman image was really kind of being portrayed through us because we have limited bandwidth. 'We couldn't come out in baggy jeans and hoodies, or everyone would be terrified. 'It's really different now, but at that time we had to provide a counter narrative to this idea that five black guys in a space is dangerous.' Mental health struggles were also a significant part of each member's journey, a challenge that wasn't openly discussed during their rise to fame. Reflecting on a turning point while on tour in Southeast Asia, Rahsaan explained: 'At that point we were just like a hard no, we need to stop doing what what we're doing right now. 'Up until that point, we didn't realise that we had the power to do that. 'We were just part of the machine, that kept those cogs going and It was really something therapeutic for us to be able to do that.' Andrez shared: 'You know, when we were coming up as a band, mental health was not discussed in any space, whether it was creative industries or private business or statutory spaces, you know, the welfare of individuals wasn't really considered. 'For us, the impact of being so young, getting up really early for television shows, this constant hamster wheel of trying to get the records out, etc. I don't think we'd have reflected on the impact of that until many years later. 'The hardest time would have been when we first separated and you have to really find yourself within society. We did this since we were 12, 13, 14 years old. 'We had to go out and do job interviews and work in organisations and, you know, find ourselves in the world. 'It wasn't necessarily the impact of the band, it was more so the closing when we ended and then when we came back together.' Noel said: 'You get into a band and you're really young, you don't think it's ever gonna end. 'The free clothes, the taxis everywhere, the trainers, all the amazing stuff, the red carpets and all that, and you never think it's gonna end. 'You know, when it does come all crashing down and for me personally, I had to go and like sign on, which was an eye opening experience for me when when we first when we first split.' Explaining how their tight bond helped them through their hardship, Jade explained: 'I think even when we were younger, I think we, we always had a real family connection between all of us. 'So therefore we were always there, everyone was always allowed space and you could always tell if somebody wasn't feeling too good. 'So we kind of helped pick each other up a lot and that was throughout performances and everything. 'I think that's just our synergy that we have together that allowed us to kind of have that safe space between each other.' Damage initially split in 2002 after releasing their album Live & Liberated. They then had a brief reunion in 2010 before officially splitting up. Each member of Damage has gone on to forge a career outside the spotlight - paths that, in many ways, reflect the personal growth and life lessons they took from their time in the band. Rahsaan now serves as a deputy head at an alternative provision (AP) school, supporting young people who don't thrive in mainstream education. Noel works with the charity Carers Choices, offering vital support to those looking after loved ones. Jade discovered a passion for food and became a professional chef, while also dabbling in property. Andrez spent over a decade working with children in the justice system through the local authority, eventually launching his own organisation. He's now an organisational consultant, working within the NHS. Damage are now gearing up for their biggest headline show in over a decade as they prepare to celebrate 30 years since their debut. The iconic R&B group will return to the stage on December 5, 2025, with a special anniversary show at London's O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire. Speaking about the highly anticipated show, the group said on Instagram: 'Our fans have shown us so much love, and we can't wait to hit the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire stage next December for our biggest headline show in 10 years, celebrating 30 years together. 'It's going to be epic! With Kele Le Roc, Manny Norte plus more joining us, it's a party you don't want to miss!' Tickets went on sale in November, and limited availability remains for fans still hoping to attend.
Hindustan Times
20-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
MNS workers booked for creating ruckus at civic hospital in Vashi
NAVI MUMBAI: The Vashi police have registered a case against several Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers for allegedly threatening public servants and obstructing them from discharging their duty at the Municipal Hospital in Vashi, after a Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) employee allegedly demanded money from relatives of a deceased to wrap the body. The incident took place on June 17 around 12:30 pm. As per the complaint filed with the police, the group of MNS workers, identified as Sagar Vichare, Sanjay Shirke, Sagar Tambe, Santosh Motasingh, Sandesh Khambe, Pravin Mane, Shailesh Pachange, Akshay Trimukhe, Sangeeta Vajare, Deepali Daul, along with 10-15 unidentified party members, allegedly entered the hospital premises without prior permission. According to the complaint filed by Dr Rajesh Mhatre, medical superintendent of the hospital, the group forcibly barged into his office to confront him regarding a viral video that had surfaced on social media, showing hospital mortuary staff allegedly demanding money for postmortem services. Despite being informed about the steps taken by the hospital administration regarding the viral video, the MNS workers reportedly began hurling threats and abuses. They allegedly manhandled the security staff and forcibly draped a white cloth around Dr Mhatre's neck, all the while shouting slogans. In the complaint, it is stated that an MNS worker, identified as Sagar Vichare, allegedly demanded Dr. Mhatre's resignation, using offensive language. The group is also accused of video recording the incident and circulating it via news channels and social media platforms with the intention of maligning the reputation of the complainant and the Municipal Hospital. Based on the complaint, Vashi police registered an FIR under sections 329(3), 132, 221, 342, 352, 351(3), 353(1)B, 189(2), 190 and 191 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and section 4 of Maharashtra Medical Service Persons and Medical Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss to Property) Act, 2010, charging them for unlawful assembly, criminal trespass, intimidation, obstructing public servants, and intentional insult. 'We have served notices of appearance to all the accused and further investigation is underway,' said senior inspector Sanjay Dhumal of Vashi police station.
Sky News
15-06-2025
- General
- Sky News
Israel-Iran live: Trump issues warning to Iran - as Tehran and Israel exchange strikes
Picture show damage from Iranian strikes on Israel More images are coming through of damage caused by Iranian attacks on Israel overnight. There's major damage to a multi-storey residential building near Tel Aviv, which appears to have taken a direct hit. The night-time pictures show firefighters at impact sites in central Israel, with the bottom image also said to be a residential building.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Adam Brody ‘Tried Really Hard' to Host ‘Blue's Clues' in the '90s: ‘I Would've Loved It'
Adam Brody had his own 'welcome to L.A.' moment. The actor recently reflected on first arriving in the city to start his screen career. Among the first roles he went out for? 'Blue's Clues.' Brody told THR in the below video that he 'tried really hard' to land the hosting gig for the kid's TV series. 'I really wanted 'Blue's Clues' early on when I first moved to L.A. I tried really hard. It's like 1999. I didn't get it. But I would've loved it,' Brody said. More from IndieWire Ron Howard Loses His Sh*t in His Favorite 'The Studio' Scene Celine Song to Develop HBO Series 'Damage' Set in the World of E-Sports Steve Burns famously was cast instead, with Donovan 'Joe' Patton and Josh Dela Cruz later hosting additional iterations of the iconic series. 'Blue's Clues' premiered in 1996. Brody also recalled auditioning for 'Dawson's Creek.' 'There's an early 'Dawson's Creek' role. It really made me nervous to read with Scott Speedman. I was sweating,' he said. 'I believe [the role] went to Michael Pitt. They wanted pouting lips.' Pitt appeared in Season 3 of the series, which aired in 2002. Brody, of course, went on to have his breakout role in 'The O.C.' as Seth Cohen. The teen-centric ensemble drama premiered August 5, 2003. Brody thematically continued the Seth-ness he has become synonymous with for Netflix rom-com series 'Nobody Wants This.' 'We are in a tense moment of massive upheaval, and there doesn't seem to be many romantic comedies, period,' Brody told Variety about why the series became an overnight hit. 'I'm pinching myself a little bit.' 'Nobody Wants This' was renewed for a second season, which will premiere October 23, 2025. Series creator Erin Foster told IndieWire that Season 2 will be 'romantic and funny,' much like the first viral season of the show. 'I'm not in the business of depriving people of what they want on a show like this, and making some like, artistic choice to rob you of what you want to see. I really tried to stay on point with Season 1, [it] was all these firsts, first kiss, first date, and this is going to be the next four to six months of the relationship what that looks like,' she said. Adam Brody says he auditioned for #BluesClues and really wanted it during the Comedy Actor #Emmys #THRRoundtable | #OffScript debuts Friday on @IFC and @AMCplus and Sunday on and YouTubeLocation: The Luckman Club at Soho House West Hollywood — The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 13, 2025 Best of IndieWire Guillermo del Toro's Favorite Movies: 56 Films the Director Wants You to See 'Song of the South': 14 Things to Know About Disney's Most Controversial Movie Nicolas Winding Refn's Favorite Films: 37 Movies the Director Wants You to See
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Whitmer seeks more time to prepare federal disaster aid request after ice storm
NORTHERN MICHIGAN — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer requested an extension from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Monday, April 21 to submit a request for a Major Disaster Declaration in relation to the historic early spring ice storm that hit Northern Michigan. From March 28-30, Northern Michigan was battered by storms that produced several inches of ice, resulting in widespread power outages, fallen trees and impassable roads. 'The historic ice storms in Northern Michigan have required an all-hands-on-deck approach to help get the power back on, clear roads and keep people safe,' Whitmer said in a press release. 'With recovery efforts still ongoing, I am asking FEMA for an extension to submit a major disaster declaration request, so we can get a complete picture of what resources and support these local communities need as they recover from this devastating storm. We'll continue coordinating closely with first-responders, local communities, our federal partners and Michiganders on the ground. Michiganders are strong, and we'll get through this together.' In the letter, Whitmer asked for an extension until May 29. More: National Linemen Appreciation Day takes on new meaning in Northern Michigan this year Recovery operations and response to the storm are still in effect more than three weeks later, with local jurisdictions working to identify community needs. According to the release from Whitmer's office, local damage assessments have been largely completed, paving the way for the Preliminary Damage Assessments that start this week. U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, along with State Sen. John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) and State Reps. Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan), Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs) and Ken Borton (R-Gaylord), spoke in support of the extension request. According to the release, each mentioned that the extreme damage from the storm has limited the ability to have a complete assessment of the resources necessary to rebuild. 'This was a devastating storm that unfolded in slow motion, with wave after wave of ice and trees falling day after day,' Damoose said in a statement. 'Because of the magnitude of the damage, and the fact that it took weeks to even be able to access certain areas within the counties under emergency declaration, damage assessment takes much longer to accurately complete than what one may see in a shorter event like a tornado or hurricane. We hope that Governor Whitmer's request for an extension is approved by FEMA, because Northern Michigan is still in crisis.' More: Proposed bill would start relief funding to Northern Michigan to help with ice storm toll Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage According to Whitmer's office, the State of Michigan will be conducting joint Preliminary Damage Assessments with FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration this week. That will be used to determine whether the extent of the damage from the storm meets the threshold for a Major Disaster Declaration. Depending on the results, the state would be able to request individual assistance and public assistance, offering direct help to homeowners, renters, local governments, nonprofits and more. The extension request comes just days after Fairbairn proposed House Bill 4328, a $75 million state budget plan aimed to bring state relief to the region recovering from the ice storm. The $75 million would be more than the necessary 25% match from the state if $225 million in federal relief dollars could be secured. Additionally, Damoose proposed Senate Bill 212, which would forgive the days area schools were not in session during the state of emergency. Whitmer had declared a state of emergency in Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties following the storm. She visited the region on April 3 and met with local officials and emergency responders. Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II visited on April 4 to survey the damage and talk to residents. — Contact reporter Karly Graham at kgraham@ Follow her on Twitter at @KarlyGrahamJRN. This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Whitmer asks FEMA for extension on disaster declaration request after ice storm
