Amy Winehouse Foundation Juggernaut Lands in USA

On April 11, Mitch and Janis were on hand in NYC to establish a USA presence for the Amy Winehouse Foundation. Americans are excited!

As part of the USA launch, the AWF granted $10K to the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, which works to preserve and restore music education for young folks. Unknown to most readers, AJW worked tirelessly to support and fund efforts to reopen music education departments in USA public schools; many such programs have been shutdown due to severe financial constraints. I guess the tabloids “forgot” to report that aspect of AJW’s life.

The first thing that bloggers and Amy Page makers need to do in support of the AWF-USA is to make sure:

1. That both the UK and USA AWF websites are linked on all blogs and Amy Page entries.

UK

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/

USA

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/us/

To date, the majority of traffic to the UK website has been from the USA. Yet, the site has barely three-dozen Alexa-recorded “links in” from credible and authority sites. While the likkle AANPN gang is very pleased to have contributed some of those links, the low overall count is not acceptable and must not be allowed to stand. Bloggers and pagemakers are in the best position to help remedy the problem. Now, today, is the time to act aggressively in the battle to substantially increase the AWF’s link count.

(NOTE: 48-hours following the posting of this entry, Alexa released a new audit that revealed approximately 400 “linking in” sites had been recorded. That new count is excellent and must continue to increase.)

2. That all future AJW/AWF-relevant entries to blogs and freestanding pages contain the TAGS “amy winehouse foundation” AND “charitable foundation.”

Until the AWF begins to earn its fair share of returns for the search term “charitable foundation,” the organization cannot reach its full potential. Your placement of the “charitable foundation” tag on your blog/page entries will help move us toward that goal.

All USA residents who love the JadeMermaid Princess are extremely proud that the AWF has landed on our shores. We are ready to help get the job done; anyone who doubts the American resolve in that regard should simply watch our actions in 2012 and beyond.

We enthusiastically welcome the Amy Winehouse Foundation to the USA. Thank you so much for coming!

Amy Winehouse SYTS Scholarship: Deadline Looms

On April 12, the window will close on a once in a lifetime opportunity for one lucky kid and their family. That day is the deadline for the filing of applications to receive the Amy Winehouse Foundation sponsored scholarship to attend the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London.

The scholarship is designed to allow a financially disadvantaged child to pursue his or her dreams of developing their natural talents in the area of drama, singing. and dance.

There is still time to submit a last minute application. If you are the parent of a “natural born star” – or know somebody who is – don’t sit on your hands; late applications cannot be accepted.

Full details about the scholarship and an application are at this link:

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/sylviayoungscholarship

Amy Jade Winehouse

When AJW was 13-years old, she wrote an application letter to the headmistress, Sylvia Young. That letter was preserved and reads:

“I want to go somewhere where I’m stretched right to my limits, and perhaps beyond to singing lessons without being told to shut up. But mostly I have this dream to be very famous. To work on stage. It’s my life long ambition. I want people to hear my voice and just forget their troubles for five minutes. I want to be remembered for being an actress, a singer, for sell out concerts, sell out West-end and Broadway shows, and for being just…me.”

For the education of the history buffs: The stories of AJW having been “expelled” from Sylvia Young are far from strictly accurate; tho, they do make for a fun and cool legend. During a time when one of the most talented students ever to present at the school turned 16-years old and became convinced that she absolutely could not continue with life unless she had her nose pierced, Sylvia Young became convinced that AJW was ready to meet the challenges that would be posed by William Ashton at the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. It was decided that Ashton would take over the duties of mentoring and educating the “self-determined and semi-unruly” genius. AJW simply moved to another venue; she was not run off from SYTS with a stick.

Next week, a youngster, not so very different than AJW was when she first sought to matriculate at Sylvia Young, will take the first steps in a life-changing adventure. That child could be someone you know and love, if you can meet the looming application deadline.

The pride and joy that AJW would feel watching the auditions of the kids vying to be educated in her name would be enormous. The awarded child will be watched closely and encouraged by AJW fans. We all wish them Godspeed and hope that their early promise will be fully realized in future years.

Regarding my own promise: Each time I post the above Likkle Mermaid’s picture, I promise myself and others that “this time, it will not make me cry.” One of these days, I will keep my promise; maybe.

Use Page Publishing Venues to Promote and Support Amy Winehouse Foundation

The following page publishing venues are ideal platforms from which individuals can easily promote and support the Amy Winehouse Foundation. There is no charge to use the venues and you will be paid a share of any revenues generated by your pages; you can then transmit such monies to the AWF.

Squidoo; Zujava; HubPages; InfoBarrel; Wizzley; Snipsly; Seekyt; Wikinut; RedGage; Weebly.

Pages are very easy to build; no advanced computer knowledge is required. If you know how to play on facebook or twitter, you will have no problem making a nice page.

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An AAN Transparency Note:

All AAN pages – whether there is one or 100 – will always remain not for profit and will be operated as a hobby, by unpaid volunteers. All AAN pages are promotional and informational vehicles only. No AAN pages are designed for fundraising purposes.

The AAN aparat supports the hopes, goals and wishes of the Amy Winehouse Foundation, and has no fiduciary relationship with the AWF,  and never acts – nor claims to act – for or on behalf of the AWF.

AAN pages will never solicit or collect funds on behalf of the AWF, but will encourage and help to enable readers to make direct donations to the AWF, via the AWF website or through other official AWF venues.

AAN pages that are published on venues with commercial components will be operated in one of the following ways:

1. Publishing venues upon which the AWF has been deemed an approved charity, will transmit 100% of any revenues generated by AAN pages directly to the AWF.

2. Publishing venues upon which the AWF has not been deemed an approved charity, but which venues have their own internally administered omnibus charity fund, will retain 100% of any revenues generated by AAN pages. The AAN aparat will, at least once annually, transmit an amount equal to the amount thusly retained, directly to the AWF.

3. Publishing venues upon which there is no official charity component, will, in the ordinary course of their business, either disburse to or hold in reserve for the AAN aparat, 100% of any revenues generated by AAN pages. The AAN aparat will, at least once annually, transmit an amount equal to the amount thusly disbursed or reserved, directly to the AWF.

Currently, based on:

1. The number of AAN pages with commercial components; and,

2. The past revenue generation of existing AAN pages,

it is not anticipated that revenues derived from the subject commercial components will, in the foreseeable future, be substantial. That circumstance could change in the event that the number of AAN pages was increased, and/or if other publishing venues were employed. In no event will the AAN aparat ever hold an amount of page generated revenues that exceeds, in the aggregate, $500.00 US. If said amount is reached, it will be immediately transmitted to the AWF, notwithstanding the previously noted annual transmittal pledge.

To learn more about the AWF, or to make a donation to the AWF, click the link:

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/

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If you are looking for a way to build a fun internet page that has the potential to raise some tiny pennies for the AWF, please consider building a likkle page on one or more of the above referenced venues. Such pages do not have to be AJW/AWF centric. Pages in any category and about any subject can be built. Simply place a promotional link to the AWF website on the page, and pledge any page revenues to the Amy Winehouse Foundation. When such revenues are received by you, simply transmit them to the AWF.

Don’t be shy. Jump in the mix. You’ll have fun and you can help with the important task of building awareness about the Amy Winehouse Foundation.

Thanks.

Job One: Help Build Awareness | Amy Winehouse Foundation

 

The likkle AAN gang is pleased with the number of nice AWF promos we have recently garnered from third-party sources. But, we are all suffering from a slight case of We Can Do More and We Can Do It Better Syndrome. Modern life and laziness are both enemies of greater and more energetic efforts. The tiny AAN crew has all promised, once again, to devote more time to our Amy-Page hobby and less time to the stuff we don’t really want to do.

Sometimes, trying to build awareness about worthwhile causes and ideas seems as though it is futile. All efforts can appear to be never ceasing and without results. Often, observers think that what the pumpers do amounts to nothing, but while we often don’t do our work as well as we should, we have, over many years, learned a few things:

1. All pumping is cumulative and your efforts can remain invisible, until “critical mass” is achieved and your results seem to become visible “overnight.”

2. Some techniques fail and you must constantly experiment with new ones.

3. If you quit in the face of disappointing results, your chances of winning are reduced to less than zero.

4. Persistence does, indeed, breakdown resistance.

The AAN group is a very long way from reaching critical mass, but we are moving forward and making some progress. We will never quit pulling, pushing, and beehive-tugging the AJW/AWF train. And, we are among the most persistent creatures that have ever inhabited the planet.

Some recent promos that the AAN pumpers have picked up:

http://tribook.hubpages.com/hub/Amy-Winehouse-Foundation-AAN

http://zeabiii.hubpages.com/hub/Jadeink-Zujava-Pages-Promote-Amy-Winehouse-Foundation

http://www.squidoo.com/amys-army-now

http://www.squidoo.com/aan-blog-promotes-amy-winehouse

http://dmcgaw.hubpages.com/hub/Jadehorseshoe-Promotes-the-Amy-Winehouse-Foundation

http://www.squidoo.com/jadeink-on-zujava-supports-amy-winehouse-foundation-and-amys-army-now

Note To Readers: You have a critical role in helping to assure that promo pages such as those above are widely distributed and seen by a large audience. Simply clicking on the facebook button, the twitter button, and the google+ button will help advance such pages in the search-engine rankings. Your clicks will also move the pages up in rank on their own sites, which can result in the promos being featured on the sites’ front pages. As you know, we are in the “impression collecting” game. The more simple impressions that we collect, the easier it will become for the AWF to succeed in its own promotional and fundraising efforts. Your help in this regard is needed and much appreciated.

Only our own reticence and “organic growth” strategy have kept AAN from connecting with more of the “influencers” that are eager to write about and promote subjects that may be interesting to their readers. We won’t be making any more mistakes in that regard.

Today, I asked my associates this question:

“If we were pumping a profit-making enterprise for ourselves, what techniques would we be employing to get the job done?”

I saw all of the “lightbulbs” go on in the room. We get it. If we are going to accomplish our mission, we simply must be much more aggressive, much less insular and parochial, and totally relentless in reaching out to new promotional resources. This tactical reinvigoration will not become visible to all in the short term, but it is now underway and we expect it to yield results in 2012.

Our still tearful mini-covey of typing-pumpers thanks all of our readers for their friendship. We promise not to rest until the day comes when a  google/yahoo/bing searcher types in the words “charitable foundation” and finds that the AWF is permanently in the page-one mix. We love and respect AJW and we are much honored to be an ultra-miniature part of helping to promote the construction of what we strongly believe will become her most important legacy, the Amy Winehouse Foundation.

To learn more about the AWF, please visit their lovely website:

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/

To view the infrastructure of the AAN pages, visit this roadmap:

https://amysarmynow.wordpress.com/2012/02/03/roadmap-the-aan-infrastructure/

Visit the AANPN Website:

http://aanpagenetwork.weebly.com/index.html

Thanks.

Amy Jade Winehouse: Quiet Generosity

When the general public contemplates Amy Jade Winehouse, they ordinarily think of her as a world famous artist, living an extravagant lifestyle; surrounded by wealth, security, paparazzi and controversy. Seldom does that public think about AJW in the context of what she always held as a top-tier tenet of her life: Giving back via generous support of sundry charitable causes.

AJW never stood on mountains and shouted, “Watch me be charitable.” She did most of her good deeds in the closet, as the maxim of all higher-powers dictates is proper. Tax deductions and public praise were never any element of her quiet generosity; she was compelled to help by the innate decency and compassion of her heart, mind and conscience.

History will be hard pressed to find honest philanthropy mavens who can testify that AJW ever said, “no, no, no,” when she was asked to be supportive of worthwhile charitable endeavors. She was known in many circles as a soft touch. “Ask Amy, she’ll do it,” was a common refrain inside of the charity community.

When breast cancer awareness needed a bump, AJW bared it all for the cause. When Nelson Madela’s 90th birthday charity-concert asked, AJW rose from a hospital bed to perform. When Caribbean groups needed help encouraging young musicians, AJW got it done. When hearing loss became an issue in developing countries, AJW’s cash could be heard loud and clear. When the Born HIV Free campaign needed a soundtrack for its award winning film, Baby In The Sky, AJW delivered Back To Black at no charge. When stalking paps discovered that AJW had repeatedly donated scores-of-thousands-of-dollars worth of designer clothes to thrift shops in poor neighborhoods, some in the media simply noted that she had “too many clothes, anyway.” When AJW encountered sick folks unable to pay for medical care, she picked up the tab and shunned any thanks for the kindness. When there was pain and a chance to heal it, need and a chance to meet it, AJW was the go-to woman. Yet, who knew?

AJW Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

Some of the philanthropic causes that AJW quietly supported:

21st Century Leaders  –  Helps support the philanthropy of  Whatever It Takes, a charity artwork project that gathers art from leaders in all fields – royalty, film, music, Nobel Peace Prize laureates, sports, literature, theatre, media – and sells it to raise funds for nonprofits chosen by each contributing leader. Organizations supported include: Adopt-A-Minefield, Anti-Slavery International, Breast Cancer Campaign, CARE, Children of the Andes, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Christian Children’s Fund, City at Peace, Comic Relief, Dreams Can Be Foundation, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Greenpeace, Healthlink Worldwide, Heifer International, Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen, Red Cross, LIFEbeat, LifeLine & Rape Crisis PMB, Opportunity International, Oxfam, ROTA, Rights and Humanity, S.A.F.E., Save the Children, Sharon Osborne Colon Cancer Program, Snoop Youth Football League, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Teenage Cancer Trust, The BRIT Trust, Christina Noble Children’s Foundation, Little Dreams Foundation, Lotus Outreach, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Toothfairy Foundation, Trade Plus Aid, UNHCR, UNICEF, WaterAid, World Neighbors.

Global Fund  –  Has committed more than $5.4 BILLION – in 150 countries – to fund the fight against AIDS, TB and malaria.

Hear The World  –  Is an initiative by hearing aid manufacturer Phonak that works to raise awareness about hearing loss and to promote good hearing around the globe. The goal of the organization is to educate the general public about the importance of hearing loss prevention, the social and emotional impacts of hearing loss in third-world countries, and the solutions available for persons suffering hearing loss.

BID 2 BEAT AIDS  –  Is an annual entertainment memorabilia auction, with proceeds going to LIFEbeat. Among the hundreds of items available for bid are signed photographs of stars, original art, costumes and props, signed CDs and memorabilia, and celebrity meet-and-greet opportunities at many exclusive events.

LIFEbeat  –  Is dedicated to reaching America’s youth with the message of HIV/AIDS prevention. The organization mobilizes the talents and resources of the music industry to raise awareness and to provide support to the AIDS community.

Save The Music Foundation  –  Works to help improve the availability and quality of music education in America’s public schools, by funding the restoration of music programs in cities across the country, and by raising awareness about the importance of musical training to our nation’s youth.

V-Day  –  Is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. It promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise money and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations. V-Day draws attention to the fight to stop violence against women and girls, including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation, and sexual slavery.

The stories of AJW’s generosity to her friends in need – as well as to total strangers – are legion. Any mention of such kindness in her presence was likely to be met by her with “shadup,” or “intnuffin,” or “fugedaboutit.” The next time that those who know slight truth of AJW write a check to their fave charity, they should contemplate that charity never walks alone. And, perhaps, note that Amy Jade Winehouse had much more in common with each of them than they had ever imagined.

AJW does not need to be recalled as greater in the arms of the angels than she was when she walked with us. There is no movement to create Saint Amy in the public mind, but a tiny penny’s worth of recognition for her unheralded and never promoted giving nature is warranted. Those of us who love her and think of her as the JadeMermaid Princess do so not only because of her great artistic achievements, but also because she was graced with the “generosity and decency genes.” She made us all strive to be better and more compassionate humans.

Now, in her absence, many are engaged in efforts to continue the construction of what is destined to become AJW’s most important legacy: The Amy Winehouse Foundation. Those of us who work from the sidelines to cheer and encourage that organization, respectfully request that celebrities who worked with AJW on behalf of their own favorite charities, now step forward and lend their public support to the AWF.

Some high-profile celebs have already been extremely generous with their names and resources in support of the AWF, and many more are needed to help build awareness about the foundation’s great work. If you know any celebs who might want to help the AWF grow, please don’t be too shy to chat them up about the opportunity. If you are a celeb, large or likkle, please step up. AJW would say, “Fanks!”

Here is a link to the AWF website:

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org/

Celebrity or fan, please visit, learn and step up.

 

Banner Changes Coming To AAN Facebook Pages

With the new format of all facebook pages fast approaching, AAN’s prefered page banners will be replaced. On or before April 1, 2012, new interim banners will be uploaded onto the reformatted pages; these banners may or may not be subsequently updated.

The Interim Banners:

Amy’s Army Now Facebook Page

Amy Jade Winehouse Page Directory Facebook Page

Dionne Bromfield Page Directory Facebook Page

It is not clear that in the new format the directory pages will have the same utility that they currently have. If it becomes necessary, the directories will be moved to another site; possibly to WordPress, possibly to our own server. Such a move would allow for the directories to be alphabetized and would provide potentially more valuable backlinks to the listed pages.

While we very much regret that any format changes are being implemented, there is, obviously, nothing we can do about it. Such is life.

Belgrade: Final Notes

This brief entry is the kind that I really hate to pen. I will speak of these things now – from perceived necessity – and not chat of them again. In the future, when the subject comes up and a response is deemed appropriate, I will simply provide a link to this entry.

The tragedy of Belgrade continues to be used by the bashers and their disease-chauvinist allies, in ongoing attempts to discredit Amy Jade Winehouse, cast shame and embarrassment upon her memory, and diminish the fabulous recall that those of us who love her will always retain. The primary weapons of the trashers are, of course, the despicable and scandalous videos of AJW’s final public concert on June 18, 2011, in Kalemegdan, Belgrade, Serbia.

Like all AJW-bashing vids, the Belgrade films tell us nothing at all about her character, but well serve to reveal the lack of character possessed by their exploiters. There will be no vid links in this entry; the ghouls and the haters can find their own. A simple picture of horror, displayed on the wholly innocent and terrified face of a decent and broken human will justly suffice to illustrate tragedy and distribute guilt, without satisfying the subhuman bloodlust of the hateful.

On that dark night, barely a month before the JadeMermaid Princess made her final exit, humanity took a vacation and savagery took the eve. A terminally ill SuperStar took the stage, and the decency of thousands of ordinary folks vanished; replaced by outrageous conduct, shameful inaction, unparalleled greed and pure evil.

What happened on that awful night?

* As AJW’s inability to perform quickly became obvious, a de facto “kidnapping and hostage holding” incident unfolded.

* A cruel, backward, ignorant and disgusting mob of audience miscreants booed, screamed curses, and attempted to throw objects onto the stage.

* A group of trusted friends and close associates failed to summon the modicum of moral courage that would have been required to rescue their loyal friend.

* A gang of greed-directed shotcallers became determined that “50-minutes or more” was to be the ORDER of the night.

* A story of modern-day slavery – perpetrated by above-the-law gangsters in Savile Row suits – was revealed.

* An orchestrated attempt – directed from the heights of power – was immediately launched to prevent the wide distribution of video records documenting the sordid affair.

In some USA jurisdictions, the events of that horrible night could have resulted in the criminal prosecution of some of the participants. In many USA venues, successful civil litigation against those actors would have been a slamdunk. Yet, in the instant circumstance, all that was delivered was a tragic outcome, with no justice for the victim.

That the corruption-based campaign to conceal the video record of the outrage failed, yielded two results:

1) Haters got a useless – though irritating – bashing tool;

2) Good folks got a perfect record of the civil and moral crimes that went down.

The “coverup” campaign was never about preventing the artist from being shamed and embarrassed; it was designed solely to conceal the bad acts that were committed on behalf of the powerplayers.

While I despise the videos and rarely view them, it is appropriate that they survived. Let everybody look at them. Let the decent folks dissect them – a la Zapruder – to see exactly what a de facto “kidnapping and hostage holding” really looks like. It’s an ugly picture, but it happened and the vids assign blame where it belongs.

AJW was no stranger to “playing hurt.” Every athlete and performer is always ready to play. Yet, an ill or injured human is the least qualified to determine their own readiness. For that reason, there are strict rules and protocols in the sports world to help prevent disaster; similar schemes should be mandated to help protect our non-sports entertainers.

Since the “industry” refuses to act responsibly in these matters, the respective government regulators should now intervene. The delay of such intervention will yield only more tragedy, more heartbreak, and more dead songbirds.

Prospective regulations might mandate, among other things, that:

* “Properties” arriving at a venue via ambulance, cannot be allowed to take the stage.

* “Properties” that cannot engage in a cogent pre-show chat with the promoter or his responsible agents, cannot be allowed to take the stage.

* “Properties” that are obviously impaired, cannot be allowed to take the stage.

* Strict civil and criminal liability shall attach to violations of the regs, and the same shall be applied jointly and severally to promoters, record companies and their agents, talent managers and agents.

* Strict civil and disciplinary liability shall attach to legal practitioners that negotiate or facilitate contracts on behalf of “properties” that they know or should know are incompetent to either lawfully enter into or perform upon such contracts. All such contracts shall be deemed avoidable by any principal party thereto, without penalty or recourse. Attorneys and solicitors that participate in the making of such unlawful contracts shall be liable for any and all damages arising from breaches proven to have been committed by their incompetent clients. (This provision will put the insurance gangs on notice that they better be very certain of the “mental and physical soundness” of the contracting parties being represented by their insured attorneys/solicitors.)

In the early days of this new scheme, all of the gangsters will lose some money; refunds will freely flow from the pockets of the unfeeling, into the hands of the disappointed. Such reverse commerce will not last long. The gangsters will quickly cease their exploitive and blind-eye routines, our precious artists will be protected, and fans will get the highest value of their ticketed contract.

Fans also have a decency-based obligation in such remedial efforts. As bodyguard Raymond Watson fervently requested from the funeral pulpit of Whitney Houston:

“Please stop ridiculing our entertainers for their personal troubles. We must love our entertainers and protect them and support them when they are in trouble. They devote their lives to bringing us joy. We owe them much more than the price of a ticket.”

Watson is a bold, brave, righteous man, and his words should be abided.

AJW had absolutely nothing to be ashamed of in her swansong appearance; she was simply abused as chatel by the forces of ignorance, cowardice, and evil that surrounded her. Reasonable people making good-faith contemplations can only conclude that the vile vids point the finger of shame correctly — away from Amy Jade Winehouse and toward those who betrayed her trust, confidence and love.

Our dear likkle princess rests now and no one can hurt her anymore. But, sundry other entertainers remain vulnerable. We collectively abandoned the moral imperative to defend and protect AJW, when it might have made a difference. We must now resolve to never again sacrifice our own humanity to the greatest servant of all things evil — our own silence.

Roadmap: The AAN Infrastructure

A fair number of folks have asked for a closer look at the AAN infrastructure. As a promo – and in the interest of slight transparency – the complete roadmap is linked below.

The handful of folks involved in the likkle AAN piece of the Amy Page Movement are a slightly motley but united bunch.

1. We have collective backgrounds in legal services, governmental relations, media relations, and print publishing.

2. We are guided by the AAN Mission Statement:

The mission is to help preserve the legend – and to help promote the philanthropic legacy – of Amy Jade Winehouse, the most accomplished Jazz Singer of modern times.

3. We love AJW, we have loved her for a lot of years, and that love will not abate.

4. We support the hopes, goals and wishes of the Amy Winehouse Foundation.

http://amywinehousefoundation.co.uk

5. We share a simple vision of what makes good Amy Pages:

“All Good Things Amy, All The Time”

6. We will not – not ever – be disrespectful to AJW; nor countenance those who fail to abide by that maxim.

7. We do not hate drama, but we are not presenting soap operas and we will not bite at every piece of nonsense tab-trash that is thrown out as bait.

8. We believe that the historical record regarding AJW and, thus, the public perception of AJW are largely inaccurate. When appropriate and in the proper context, we will work to rehab that record and that perception.

9. We are volunteer hobbyists and have neither the need nor the desire to profit financially from our Amy Page hobby.

10. We rarely work as hard as we should on our hobby, but we pledge to work harder in the future.

11. We will help promote all Amy Pages that subscribe to our notion of treating our shared subject matter respectfully.

12. We are in the mix of the Amy Page Movement for the long haul, but have no competitive interest in being “a big player.” We just want to provide good and fun and interesting AJW/AWF-centric material for folks to read and enjoy.

If news items and editorial opinions do not fit inside of our parameters, they will not appear or be discussed on AAN pages. While some folks may think we have “too many pages,” we strongly disagree. As time passes, we expect to expand our efforts in a number of exciting new directions; the AAN footprint is slated to grow just a bit.

Roadmap: The Current Likkle Fleet

AAN Blog

The blog is designed for us to present our views on news and events; both past and present.

https://amysarmynow.wordpress.com/

……….

AAN Facebook Presence

The Amy Jade Winehouse Page Directory

The AJWPD is our favorite page because it contains so many great Amy Pages. Readers must now scroll down “forever,” to see them all; new pages are regularly being added.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

The AAN Facebook Wall

The AAN FB-page is an aggregator and an originator of “All Good Things Amy.”

http://www.facebook.com/amysarmynow

The Dionne Bromfield Page Directory

The DBPD is a joyful assumption of our partial responsibility to help fulfill some of the very minor duties that AJW can no longer perform.

http://www.facebook.com/dionnebromfieldpages

……….

The jadehorseshoe Pages

The jadehorseshoe pages are intended to provide useful information about AJW and the AWF.

http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/jadehorseshoe

……….

The jadeink Pages

The jadeink pages are intended to provide useful information about AJW and the AWF.

http://www.zujava.com/users/jadeink

……….

The AANPN Website

http://aanpagenetwork.weebly.com/index.html

………..

We value each and every person who reads the AAN pages and we hope that those readers will continue to find some value in those pages. As the fleet grows, this entry will, of course, be updated.

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zujava: A New Page Publishing Platform

A new online platform from which you can help build awareness about the Amy Winehouse Foundation has now gone live. Registration is fast and easy.

http://www.zujava.com/

Still in BETA, the platform can be expected to have a few bugs, but I was able to publish this sample page fairly quickly and with a minimum of “learning curve” blues. The building blocks are simple; after the first page, you should be able to go into high-production mode.

Sample Page:

http://www.zujava.com/ten-faves-amy-jade-winehouse-pages

The Likkle Page Fleet:

http://www.zujava.com/users/jadeink

The site has a “money making” component and any earnings can be donated to the Amy Winehouse Foundation, or retained by the page owner. Backlinks to your pages on other platforms can also be included in your zujava pages.

It is always good to find a new place to help promote the AWF. Take a look at zujava, if you want to painlessly help spread the word about the foundation’s great work.

Thanks!

LHT: A Few Words

It is certain that my sure to be glowing review of Lioness: Hidden Treasures would be received as “biased.” Thus, I will just deliver a few words on what the album means to me and what I believe it will accomplish.

Since I am in the USA, I could not get my claws into the cellophane until this morning. I hit the big-box stores and did more than my share to run-up the chart numbers; my multiple AMZN preorders should be in the mail by Wednesday or Thursday, but I needed some extras for gifts and prizes, anyway. And, of course, I wanted to gauge the traffic for myself.

At both TGT and WMT, there was brisk business in the music department. Lots of folks had Amy merch in hand. I was pretty sure I was going to cry standing in the lines – had that bad “hurt feelings” burn in my throat – but I managed to keep the dam standing.

Anybody who thinks I didn’t crank-up the music before I cranked-up the car is not thinking clearly. Driving back to the ranch, I relished every note and cried more than a bit. Safe at home, I unwrapped another and slid it into the big machine; it sounds great and it makes me both happy and sad.

I fully understand the primal need of reviewers to attempt to compare and contrast LHT with AJW’s two primary previous offerings, Frank and Back To Black. But, those critics who succumb to that need are cheating themselves and their readers.

If I was going to review LHT, I would ask only one question of myself:

Would this album stand on its own as a premier sampler, if I had never heard of AJW?

My answer would be a very loud “YES!”

Lioness: Hidden Treasures is, all at once, the ultimate style retrospective; the greatest diversity menu; the most touching historical record; and, the finest primer on the whole of the genius that is Amy Jade Winehouse. Her love and respect for the past is clearly outlined, her eclectic tastes are detailed, her massive skills – both dynamic and subtle – are exposed, her life-journey is superbly mapped, and her huge enduring promise is revealed in a way that even the most unknowing listener should find impossible to resist.

Henceforth, when a potential Amy fan asks me which album I recommend that they start with, I will tell them, without hesitation, LHT is the pinnacle of primers. Lose your cherry on LHT and only then will you really be ready – and likely desperate – to get down heavy with Amy.

While those of us who love AJW will swim in tear river while LHT plays, her future lovers will be intrigued by the sweet offerings, and many virgins will surely be driven into her arms for life. No artist has likely ever had a better promotional commercial for previous works than is provided by Lioness: Hidden Treasures.

Though I am sadder today than I was on the day she went away, I am happy that the acceptance and success of LHT will help assure new audiences for the works of the JadeMermaid Princess for decades to come. Obviously, no album is adequate solace for the unspeakable loss we have suffered, but we should all be grateful for LHT and proud that we are privileged to be forever devotees of our magnificent Lioness.

Hat Tip To: Remi, Ronson, and AJW’s family for delivering LHT to us. Thank you for a fabulous gift from the heartbroken to the brokenhearted.

History: The Valerie Files

Here is the wiki background story of Valerie.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valerie_(The_Zutons_song)

No point in me trying to restate the facts of history, when I could be gathering music-video links instead.

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AJW – with more than a likkle help from Ronson – took a grossly under appreciated song, made it her own, and earned The Zutons much more money than they had previously seen for their diligent creative efforts. Along the way, Valerie expanded Amy’s fan base and encouraged the newcomers to both explore the “real” Amy music and discover their own creative performing abilities.

The song means many different things to different folks. Many see it as a semi-optimistic and slightly celebratory anthem. Some, me included, see it as a pain-filled ballad that sadly – by coincidence or kismet – documents a pivotal phase in the life and times of Amy Jade Winehouse.

The song makes me smile and it makes me cry; it makes me happy and it makes me desperately sad. Often, that dichotomy brings me much more pain than it does pleasure, yet it is simply not possible for me to set the song aside and move on. Wherever Amy takes me, she always brings me back to Valerie. That may say more about my shallow and masochistic nature than about the song’s depth, but for whatever reasons, “to walk away from Valerie, I have no capacity.”

Here below is a non-comprehensive sampling of links to sundry performances of Valerie. The first section is mostly all Amy all the time. The second section contains performances by the artists that embraced Amy’s Valerie and will continue to pass her from one generation to the next.

When I first contemplated this entry, I thought I should tell readers all that I know about the “moods and circumstances” that helped form the gestalt of each performance. I could paint a picture with lots of titillating words, but such fleshed-out details could yield a book and not add any real value to the “it is what it is” tiny titles that I have given each link.

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Section One: The Amy and Val Chronicles

The Inspiration

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3xpmfJp0Xc&ob=av2e

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The Pure

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqSKVv6YO8g

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The Manchild Serenade

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=namFjcOgHSE&feature=related

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The Famous

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbX9I605PkQ&feature=related

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The Birthday Party Ambulance

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naQAovGUcJo

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The BBC

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qTpv2RDw8E

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The Pain

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enLZ2hY0Jrc&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL3C4180571A7D2279

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The Stylized

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4o_r5fAFLo&feature=related

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The Lollapalooza

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R9lPutLMiA&feature=related

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The Festive

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeVUvA_BOzs&feature=related

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The Unfestive

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgHnF-gRY0s&feature=related

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The Tribulations

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5RKTGxfaLw&feature=related

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The Crushing Aftermath

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H0rXq-tI3U

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The Tears

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdRzAulUQFY&feature=related

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Section Two: The Past Is Always The Future

These inclusions are here not because they are all great, but because they all exist. Though I tried to pick fun ones and good ones, my daddy’s notion that it is better to be a bad artist than a great business master may remain alive and well in some of the selections.

Glee TV

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STo1d-ZTzqU&feature=related

Glee 3D Movie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp4Zail3FQA&feature=share

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UC Berkeley’s DeCadence

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTCFCuo6P18

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Tonal Ecstasy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7VW_ulIKPo&feature=related

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On A High Note

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9caLwY7aLwY&feature=related

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NH Notables

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cbZxuzUyKk&feature=related

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Dutch Vocalicious

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQuBu3F2PXY&feature=related

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The Vocables

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QIoz70ZF38&feature=related

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Bates College Crosstones

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6irDUVqsQtU&feature=related

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Mount Holyoke V8s

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88THAbPlXN0&feature=related

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ConnChords

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0r7Q7mG8OA&feature=related

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Victoria Justice

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95dPNXYwxsM

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Wyatt and Landen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xemPQ6FV08

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I could list DOZENS more – and as time passes there will be HUNDREDS more – but the point is made: A working-class song was transformed into a piece of music that truly captured the imaginations of young folks around the world and will likely continue to do so for many decades. The utes not only wanna listen to Valerie, they wanna sing about her out loud.

A cool likkle Brit chick made that happen; not because she was the JadeMermaid Princess, but because she was a great artist with an inclusive style and a long-burning fire in her belly that compelled her to touch and move everybody. She told you about that blaze 15-years ago, when she wrote to the headmistress at her performing arts school, in the letter I often recite and weep over:

“I want to go somewhere where I’m stretched right to my limits, and perhaps beyond to singing lessons without being told to shut up. But mostly I have this dream to be very famous. To work on stage. It’s my life long ambition. I want people to hear my voice and just forget their troubles for five minutes. I want to be remembered for being an actress, a singer, for sell out concerts, sell out West-end and Broadway shows, and for being just…me.”

Right now, even as you read these words, there are young guys and gals that sit in the family home – guitar, piano and notepad at hand – and dream about delivering their art to us. AJW drew parts of a fantastic roadmap for those dreamers and Valerie helped inspire a generation to seek direction from that map. Amy’s message to those kids would be to keep singing loud – even when others tell you to shut up – and always be prepared to live the dream.

Amy: The Girl From Ipanema

In two weeks, AJW fans will have a chance to declare the new “standard version” of a 50-year old classic, The Girl From Ipanema. The track appears as a cover on the December 5, 2011 UK-release of Amy’s third album, Lioness: Hidden Treasures.

Here is some very brief background detail, with performances by sundry great artists. I believe that I know which performances greatly influenced Amy, but I am willing to be surprised.

Written in 1962, by Antonio Carlos and Vinicius de Moraes, the song was awarded a Grammy as Record of the Year in 1965. Norman Gimbel wrote the English lyrics. Pery Ribeiro made the first commercial recording of the song in 1962. In 2004, the Library of Congress inducted the song into the National Recording Registry.

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Pery Ribeiro – Garota de Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfYTU2vuwqo

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Ella Fitzgerald – The Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZjLz6o7uZM&feature=related

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Nat King Cole – Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPN7dqOZdO0

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Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz: THE GIRL FROM IPANEMA – 1964

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJkxFhFRFDA

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Andy Williams & Antonio Carlos Jobim – Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKfl15c-Kh0

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Tom Jobim and Joao Gilberto Reunited – Girl from Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmV0TcTNJ3o

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FRANK SINATRA – THE GIRL FROM IPANEMA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NldPFVKYmiw

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Al Hirt – The Girl From Ipanema – 1970

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp3PjYgTUyA&feature=fvsr

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Lou Rawls – The Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqE7RuIbfjE

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Cher – The Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjPK7Qc0ZXE

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Sammy Davis Jr – The Girl from Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjFqTMpG9KU&feature=related

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Ivete Sangalo and B.J. Thomas – The Girl from Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooeQRcB71-U&feature=related

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Diana Krall – The Girl From Ipanema

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDMSh91tnQ8&feature=related

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Amy Jade Winehouse  – The Girl From Ipanema

????????????????????????????????????????

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Amy fans have high hopes and great expectations, and no worries. They know that their JadeMermaid Princess always makes the songs she covers her own; TGFI will be no exception.

Sam Shaker and His JadeMermaid Muse

Sometimes, I want to conclude that Sam Shaker is “only” the greatest maker of modern “folk art” I can name. Other times, I feel like I am looking at art made by a cloned descendant of Matisse, Manet and Picasso. My confusion would disturb me, except that I can always take refuge in the obvious: Shaker is a highly-skilled portrait artist; certainly one of the best working today.

Shaker can deliver what any modern camera can, but he can add the fun, the mystery, the emotion that even the best photography usually lacks. He shows me fun and sparks me to simultaneously wonder, “What was he thinking?” and “Why didn’t I think of that?”

Shaker’s relentless mashup of styles can delude the uncritical viewer into thinking that the artist lacks focus, when the fact is that he merely sees “more” aspects of his subjects than the average artist. There is “stuff” in Sam’s head and he spits it out through a brush; whether the viewer is ready for it or not, whether the context is immediately certain or not. It may be that quality that will force history to judge that Sam Shaker was actually among the grandest makers of “fine art” in his time.

That Amy Jade Winehouse and Sam Shaker stumbled upon each other was neither an accident nor an element of a teenager without a “tiny penny” wanting to play with folks she fancied to be the big kids. Kismet never errs and it always seeks to pair geniuses; so it did with the Jazz Singer and the Jazzy Painter.

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Sam Shaker’s Website

http://www.artbysamshaker.co.uk/

Fine Art By Sam Shaker

http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/sam-shaker.html?page=1

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Red Violins and Polka-Dot Dresses

What do you do when the thing you most wanted, so perfect, just comes?

So inquires Charles Morritz, a primary player in The Red Violin, the 1998 film saga that traces the 300-year+ history of a “magical” violin that has been played by – and “played” – a large cast of saints and sinners.

On November 29, 2011, another inanimate object with a “Lazarus Soul” will continue upon its path to fashion immortality. Now known as “Kerry Taylor Auctions Lot 178,” the iconic offering is the Disaya-print chiffon dress worn by Amy Jade Winehouse on the cover of her 2006 album, Back To Black.

Before getting deeper into the weeds, it is important to praise the decency and generosity of designer Disaya Sorakraikitikul. As Ruselsky sought to hoard the magnificent violin for vain pleasure, so too could DS have done with her world-famous dress. Instead, she chose to send the dress on the next step of its date with destiny. All proceeds from the sale accrue to the Amy Winehouse Foundation. All Amy fans owe Disaya big-time and we should never forget the designer’s role in building the legend.

To learn more about Disaya, see her nifty website:

http://www.disaya.com/aw11/

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Excerpts from the Kerry Taylor Auctions catalog:

Item Description: … with engraved gilt metal Disaya label, the short dress printed with bands of graduated dark-red polka dots, the corset-like bodice with under-wiring and central lace bow insertion and waistband, elasticated puff-ball skirt, UK size 8, bust approx 82-86cm, 32-34in, the high waist 71cm, 28in; together with a letter of authenticity signed by the designer – Disaya.

Item Provenance: In 2006, the young St Martins trained, Thai based designer Disaya was approached by her British PR agent with a request for the loan of a dress for Miss Winehouse’s photo-shoot. This request came via his friend – Louise Winwood who was Amy’s stylist at the time and was working on the album cover project for Universal Island Records.

Although this was Amy Winehouse’s second album (she was re-launching her career after a break) there was reluctance on the part of many of the leading fashion designers initially approached to assist. However, Disaya was happy to help as she was launching her new label in the UK and felt that the young, innovative designs would be a good match.

The photo-shoot took place in the photographer Mischa Richter’s house. Louise took over a selection of clothes for Amy to try, and they both agreed that this dress suited her best. After the photo-shoot the dress was returned to the designer and carefully stored in the Disaya archive.

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Not included in the KTA literature are these fun details and pics related to the famous photo-shoot:

http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/archive/2011/11/11/amy-winehouses-stylist-tells-us-about-dressing-amy-for-back-to-black.htm

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The high-bidder will own the dress and may do whatever he or she chooses to do with it. The internet is alive with “suggestions” on what the new owner “should do” with their new acquisition. No point in missing my chance to opine on the matter.

First, the new owner should do that which suits and pleases them to do with the dress. There should be no recriminations from fans; no matter what that owner’s choice is.

If I were to buy the dress:

I would retain ownership of it and seek to acquire additional high-profile Amy fashions to build the finest quality collection extant. The entire collection would be put to work in service to the Amy Winehouse Foundation. Items would be loaned to responsible event organizers around the planet to feature as exhibits at their sundry AWF-fundraising events.

When I joined AJW, the items would all conditionally revert to the AWF; in the hope that the cycle would continue “forever” and that the collection would always remain together.

Having owned a number of high-end collectibles, I can report that – after a short period of selfish “love” for the items – the only genuine joy from owning such things comes from sharing them with as many other folks as possible. In the case of the instant dress, millions of people likely eagerly await an opportunity to view it up close and in person. Our hope should be that its new owner wants to, in whatever ways they choose, provide for at least some elements of that demand.

The “White Dress With The Red Polka Dots” is about to continue its journey into history. In 100-years, Amy’s dress will have one-third as many stories to tell as the fictional violin did. We will not know those stories, but we will always be connected to their earliest chapters. That is a very cool thing.

Now, we must hope for a winning bidder with the semi-pure heart of Morritz. I am pretty sure that the JadeMermaid Princess would prefer that bidders with the heart of Ruselsky not own the treasure. Yet, I wish all of the bidders the best of luck as they each attempt to be the next to add their own chapter to what will become the forever legend of Amy’s ever so marvelous dress.

 

Make An Easy Contribution To The Amy Winehouse Foundation

As most of you know, the AWF has been established in Amy’s memory to support charitable activities in both the UK and abroad that provide help, support or care for young people; especially those who are in need by reason of ill health, disability, financial disadvantage or addiction.

The lifeblood of the AWF is public awareness. Now, you can easily help boost that awareness AND earn some “likkle” financial contributions to help build Amy’s philanthropic legacy.

If you have ONE HOUR to contribute to the AWF’s important work, simply follow the instructions below:

1. Join Squidoo:

http://www.squidoo.com/

On Squidoo, the pages you create are called “lenses.”

2. When registering, you will be asked how you want to be paid for ad-revenues generated by your lens. Until the AWF can be listed as one of the charities on the Squidoo menu, just have your mini-monies sent to your PayPal account. When the pennies start to add up, simply make your direct contribution to the AWF.

NOTE: Be sure to use the same email addy to register on Squidoo that you use at PayPal. This enables the seamless payment of ad-revs to your account.

3. Follow the “lens building” screens and create a simple lens that features your positive thoughts about AJW and the Amy Winehouse Foundation. Your own original content is best – poetry, songs, pictures, art, stories, articles – but you can also thoroughly rewrite other material and post it in your lens.

You don’t need special writing skills to build a good lens. Just write what you think, feel, believe; folks will find it and read it.

Here is a sample lens that I put together – using existing content – in 37-minutes. You can likely build one a lot faster than I did. They are MUCH easier to build than a facebook page.

http://www.squidoo.com/amy-jade-winehouse2

4. The lenses are simple to build, using the “modules” provided. After your first lens, you should have the process down and be able to quickly make more lenses about other subjects if you want to. Lens building is sort of addictive, so pace yourself.

Your “Amy Lens” can be updated just like you would update a blog; simply add a new text module and enter your new content. Frequent updates will keep both Squidoo’s indexing scheme and the search engines interested in your lens.

Some Squidoo Modules You Need To Use In Your Lens:

A: The Introduction Module: This one is required so that google and the other search engines can find and index your lens. In the sample above, this module is labeled “The Mission.”

B: The Text Module: This is where you write or paste the body copy of your lens. It includes a title box that tells folks what your story is about.

C: The Amazon Module: This box allows you to place a direct order ink to Lioness: Hidden Treasures. If someone uses the link to place their order, AMZN will pay some pennies directly into your account.

D: The All Links Module: Here, you can place links to the AWF site, the AWF facebook wall, your own or others’ blogs and facebook pages, and any other relevant links. In the sample lens, the module is labeled “Useful Amy Page Links.”

I Told You It Was Simple, You Know I Told The Truth.

You will want to use “tags” on your lens. This helps Squidoo readers and the search engines find the lens. The tags used in the sample above are labeled “Related Tags.” You can use any relevant tags that you think a searcher might use.

You should make your titles and copy “keyword rich.” This means you want to use words that searchers might use. Amy Jade Winehouse, Amy Winehouse Foundation, Lioness: Hidden Treasures, are examples of keywords that are useful for our current purposes; you may think of many others — use them.

If it looks like there are “too many” ads on the sample lens, that is a good thing. Demos are tracked and the ads on your lens will, eventually, be ideally suited to your average readers. The more ads on your lens, the more cash you will have a chance to earn for the AWF.

If English is not your first language, you can build a lens in your own language but you will get many more readers – and link clickers – if you run your copy through a translator tool and convert it to English before you publish your lens.

NOTE ON CLICK ADS: Never click the ads on your own lens. NOT even to test if they are working; they all work fine. If you are seen clicking the ads on your lens, your account will likely be cancelled and you will be out of the game.

As noted above, “building awareness” about the AWF is Job One. Each time somebody discovers your lens, an AWF “impression” will be created in their mind. We are on an “impression collecting” mission and we want to get as many as we possibly can. As top-of-mind awareness increases, donations to the AWF will increase, too.

The placement of outbound AWF links in your lens is also an important element of this project. Such links make it easy for readers to explore the AWF pages and may help advantage the AWF pages in search-engine indexing.

While the ad-revenues from our individual lenses will not make the AWF rich, collectively our lenses might raise a fair bit of cash each year. At the AWF, every “tiny penny” counts and every contribution is important.

If just 50 folks would volunteer to help promote the Amy Winehouse Foundation via a Squidoo lens, we would be well on our way to creating a significant addition to the large and growing “Amy Page Movement.”

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To help encourage folks to create 50 lenses quickly, Amy’s Army Now will start a new contest. The makers of the TOP THREE lenses – out of the first 50 lenses – will each be awarded a factory-sealed copy of Lioness: Hidden Treasures. Yours Truly will choose the TOP THREE lenses. If we cannot make it to 50 qualifying lenses by December 31, 2011, there will be no contest and no awards.

When you publish your lens, place a link on the Amy’s Army Now facebook Wall.

http://www.facebook.com/amysarmynow

All adequate lenses will be listed in the AJW Page Directory on facebook.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

If you have just ONE HOUR to invest in service to the JadeMermaid Princess, this is your opportunity to help build awareness about the AWF and help them raise a few extra bucks. And, you might win a factory-sealed copy of Lioness: Hidden Treasures.

Thanks for reading; now, go build Amy a new lens.

Amy’s Image: Not ‘Reinvention’ – Only Tardy Fairplay

Under a semi-bombastic headline, in today’s Fashion Section of the Telegraph, Lisa Armstrong raised the notion of “reinvention,” regarding the public image of Amy Jade Winehouse.

http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/columns/lisa-armstrong/TMG8881389/Amy-Winehouse-the-reinvention-starts-here.html

While I dismiss as total speculation some elements of Armstrong’s editorial recounting of “events,” the notion that AJW’s public image is being “reinvented” has some merit. Though, the word “reinvented” is more than slightly gratuitous – and quite inaccurate – there is little doubt that a large wave of “setting the record straight” efforts is underway.

Following years of seeing Amy trashed and slimed – for money – by some mean-spirited paps and all exploitive tabs, it is wholly justified that fans and others are taking another look at precisely what went down in the media campaign that resulted in the public dehumanization of AJW.

Some in the media-class will continue to call this rehab process “reinvention,” but many of Amy’s fans – and other fair-minded observers – see it simply as fairplay and decency arriving far too late to render justice and preserve life.

The current pushback, wrongly branded as “reinvention,” is certainly reactionary in nature. But, if such reactions had come sooner, the subject might well be moot. Speculating about the unknowable – the what might have been concepts – is a deadend path. But, still, the brokenhearted and the decent must wonder if a different outcome was ever possible. Did the good people do enough and are their present “image rehab” efforts largely elements of guilt? I dunno.

That AJW benefited greatly from a stalking media’s attention is undeniable; that some of that attention was extremely hurtful and damaging to Amy’s feelings as a human being is equally true. Noting that “you take the good with the bad,” is too cavalier a position in light of the outcome that was ultimately visited upon Amy and those who loved her.

The profiteers are still standing and they worry that some fans are engaged in revisionism. I delight in their worry and advise that they have not seen anything, yet.

Amy’s fans relish the notion that her art was always honest. They love that she said what was on her mind. They fancy that “she didn’t care” what other folks thought of her. While Amy’s honesty in her art was unparalleled, much of her bravado in the face of pain and abuse was likely merely the public mask she wore to maintain a defensive illusion of strength and power; humans are like that.

Like most artistic geniuses, AJW was a fragile-hearted human with ultra-sensitive feelings; subject to being easily crushed and demoralized by the criticisms, judgements and exploitations of other humans.

Hunters stalk a wounded animal to retrieve their prey and end its suffering. In life, Amy was stalked by opportunists that sought only a “money shot” that could be sold as representative of “truth.” Such shots often represented accuracy in the moment, but seldom delivered any “truth” about AJW. Such shots were used to create an impression that was neither fair, nor honest, nor decent; the only “truth” delivered was the shocking savagery of a greed-driven media preying on a mortally wounded human. A human with a disease that it is still more acceptable to mock and exploit than it is easy to cure.

Such disease chauvinism profits the exploiters and destroys its victims. If AJW had contracted cancer and departed, would a vile media raise the issue of “reinvention?” Of course not. If a false narrative of Amy’s life had not been largely created by a money-corrupted media, would the alleged “reinvention” even be required? Most definitely not.

Now, with blood still wet near where they stand, elements of the media will accuse Amy’s fans and supporters of attempting to “reinvent history.” The contrary is the truth. We are simply seeking to undo some of the wrongful damage done by a media paid so handsomely – and for so long – to construct what we view as a false and hopelessly biased “history.”

If those who seek to have AJW remembered as a great artist and a good and decent human – with the same frailties and troubles born by many others – are to be cast as “reinventors,” how will history view those who made such “reinvention” necessary? I am pretty sure that I do know the answer to that question.

Fans: Don’t Help Pirates Steal From Amy

The evil graverobbers are out in force. Pirated and hodge-podge CDs and DVDs are popping up for sale on many online retail venues. NONE of the proceeds from the sale of such material flow to the Amy Winehouse Foundation or to AJW’s estate. Buying such items is tantamount to suborning stealing from Amy.

It is easy to understand the great thirst that fans have for more Amy music; the temptation to buy dodgy items is powerful. Each time you succumb to that temptation, you help delay the release of additional legitimate material and you diminish its value. It is righteous to be patient and to wait for the “real thing.”

During the next decade, it is very likely that substantial quantities of legitimate, unreleased AJW music will surface. If you love Amy and respect the sacrifices that she made to create that music, you will wait for it and avoid the quick-buck scammers that care only about counting stolen money.

Just today, it is being reported that Remi has a nice stash of material that will likely eventually be released.

http://www.hiphopblog.com/news-mainmenu-35/26802-nas-a-amywinehouse-tracks-may-surface.html

Over time, there will likely be LOTS more; wait for it.

Currently, the ONLY authorized new release is Lioness: Hidden Treasures. Support LHT, help drive it to the top of the charts, and you will be well rewarded with many future opportunities to own more of the great music that YOUR JadeMermaid Princess devoted much of her life to creating for YOU.

Thanks!

“Amy Pages” Can Help Move “Amy Projects” Forward

As time passes, the basket of “Amy Projects” will become more full. These are some of the APs currently at the top of the basket.

_______________________

Amy Winehouse Foundation:

The AWF is the backbone of efforts to build Amy’s philanthropic legacy. All of our work should be done with the understanding that building awareness about the AWF is our primary mission; all projects should further that mission.

AWF Facebook Page:

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousefoundation

AWF Website:

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.co.uk/

_______________________

Lioness: Hidden Treasures:

The release of LHT on December 5, 2011 is a major component in the funding of the AWF. Approximately $1.60 from each unit sold will go to the AWF. Our pumping efforts need to be spirited, to help assure that LHT tops the charts and yields strong returns for the AWF.

How To Order LHT, Now:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/new-releases/music#zg_learnMo

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dpopular&field-keywords=&x=12&y=25#/ref=sr_pg_9?rh=n%3A5174%2Cp_n_date%3A1249114011&page=9&bbn=5174&ie=UTF8&qid=1320683662

http://hmv.com/hmvweb/navigate.do?pPageID=4906

_______________________

Respect La Diva Poll:

The RLD-Poll asks respondents to vote for their “favorite female singer of all time.” The Poll is now open until January 31, 2012. The Winner will be honored with a special Gold Diva Award.

http://www.respectladiva.com/poll/

While AJW currently has a large percentage lead in the polling, the low total vote count leaves us very vulnerable to a late voting effort by another camp. One vote per day from each computer that you use is appropriate.

If Amy is selected for this award, it is likely that an AJW song will be written into the RLD show. A win here will help boost MANY other current and future projects.

_______________________

Camden Square Memorial:

The politicians in Camden are debating what they call the “sensitive issue” of placing a permanent Amy-memorial on the Square. The job-creators in the area will receive a major biz-boost from the many thousands of tourists that will flock to the memorial annually. Any extended debate of the obvious should be seen as inappropriate.

My personal preference is for a life-size bronze statue, on a large pedestal no higher than 18-inches; featuring AJW wearing a flare-dress, with her right arm extended – a la the “Look Across The Water…” stage gesture – and facing in the direction of the AWF headquarters.

Whatever the Camden pols decide, they should do it quickly; before some other city beats them to it. You can help encourage the pols to act prudently and promptly by casting your vote in this poll.

News Story and Poll:

http://tinyurl.com/7hrc2q5

Check Here For Updates:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Camden-Square-Sign-amy-winehouse/247122268649656

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Hollywood Walk of Fame STAR:

Momentum is on the build in this campaign, but there is still much work to do. Very simply put, the challenge is to encourage the Walk of Fame Committee to waive the “five year rule” governing posthumous inductions. The Committee needs to see a groundswell of popular support, prior to their final consideration of granting such a waiver.

Background and Talking Points:

https://amysarmynow.wordpress.com/2011/10/07/amy-merits-a-star-on-the-hollywood-walk-of-fame/

_______________________

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame:

This will happen, but it will require time and a great deal of hard work. Under current rules, the first year that AJW will be eligible for induction is 2028/9. Obviously, we have no way to predict whether the process will be altered between now and then, but we should make sure that the promotional infrastructure is in place for use – whenever it is needed – by us or by those that will come after us.

Another possibility is that the Hall could establish a new series of awards that would serve as “interim indicators” that an artist might be favorably considered for induction when current time limits had been met. This could serve to build excitement about numerous artists and give fans something fabulous to look forward to.

In the foreseeable future, any external efforts to encourage rule changes that might expedite an induction vote would be inappropriate and would fail. If new rules are implemented to govern posthumous inductions, we will be ready. If the process is modified to be “fan centric,” we will be ready. If tradition prevails, we will be ready. Whatever the circumstance, we will, eventually, work to help make the high honor a reality.

Background:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_and_Roll_Hall_of_Fame

Process:

http://rockhall.com/inductees/induction-process/

_______________________

Marketing Original “Tribute Music” To Benefit The AWF:

A number of talented musicians have produced music that they wish to market for the benefit of the AWF. The best, cheapest and easiest way to organize this effort is for one of the participating musicians to create a single facebook-page to aggregate the offerings of all such musicians.

Since most of the music will be offered in electronically deliverable formats, the task of helping to promote sales can be substantially aided by the sundry “Amy Pages” posting frequent download links.

Experienced operators of this type of fundraising have found that noting “100% of gross proceeds from the sale of this music” will be donated to the applicable charity, ensures the highest unit sales. Creating “math problems” for potential buyers by noting “profits will go to the charity” does not drive sales. The benefit for participating musicians is being able to help the AWF, while expanding their own listener base; trying to reap any financial reward or recoupment at the front end is not effective.

The same general scheme could be employed by artists wishing to market “Tribute Art” for the benefit of the AWF.

_______________________

Organizing “Local” Fundraising Events:

A lot of folks – in diverse locations – want to hold small fundraising events, with all proceeds going to the AWF.

The best, cheapest and easiest way to organize such efforts is for one of the participating volunteers to create a single facebook-page to act as an aggregate directory for such events. Potential attendees could be driven to the directory by the admins of the many other “Amy Pages.”

Trying to organize a hundred different events via a hundred different pages is a cat-herding project. Consolidating organizational efforts would deliver the kind of synergy that is needed to make LOTS of diverse events successful.

_______________________

So, some of the “Amy Projects” are well baked and some are only partially baked, but we will get them all accomplished. And, there will be MANY more projects coming online in the future.

The “Amy Page” movement is fast becoming a very powerful tool that will help us all realize both our collective and individual visions of “tribute offering and legacy building.” As that power consolidates into the very loose confederation that is now being built, there will be no stopping us. As has always been the case, it is an exciting time to be an AJW fan!

_______________________

For the convenience of readers, here is a link to the Amy Jade Winehouse Page Directory, which lists many of the scores of online “Amy Pages” from around the planet.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

Some pages are more developed and active than others. ALL pages are created with the respect and love that their owners feel for the JadeMermaid Princess.

.

Our Day Will Come: Brief History, Mini Review

Here is a non-comprehensive sampling of artists performing Our Day Will Come.

Ruby and The Romantics (1963)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=–8Ju1jb8Bw

____________

Julie London (1963)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgxDHSlvlwA

____________

Isaac Hayes (1970)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08r2OMKC5ho

____________

The Heptones (1971)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8brZFA703o&feature=fvst

____________

The Carpenters (1973)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ba8XDbh2FA

____________

Johnny Mathis (1974)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoqNRLh7aAA

____________

Amy Jade Winehouse (2011 Release)

http://www.nme.com/news/amy-winehouse/60185

____________

Very Soon, when music fans think of the “standard version” of Our Day Will Come, it will be the AJW track that is playing in their heads. That is NOT to say that Amy’s cover is “better” than its predecessors; only that it is destined to become the definitive interpretation for many future generations.

The understated power of Amy’s voice in this rendition exalts the song and shows the sincere high-regard that she had for ALL of those who have performed it before her. That Amy’s covers “always become her own songs” is certainly an element of her skill, but more so defines the respect she has for the original music that is her inspiration.

There is now NO doubt that Lioness: Hidden Treasures will be at Number One on many charts before the end of 2011. After today’s sampling, we should all understand that it will not be the “buzz” or the “Amy Momentum” that will make LHT a chart topper. If you did not know that you were a fan of a true musical genius, the world will soon inform you of that fact.

Simply put, the JadeMermaid Princess was the greatest cover artist that has ever graced our presence. On July 23, 2011, Las Vegas history was robbed of a STAR that would have ultimately become the resort’s greatest headliner. But, history will be kind to Amy and her day will come; we ain’t seen nothin’ yet. The legend marches on and the true legacy has only just begun construction.

A ‘Likkle’ Fun Music For ‘Amy’s Bucket Brigade’

While all charitable institutions must covet “wealthy donors” and “major projects” to further their service goals, the lifeblood of a philanthropic enterprise is “awareness” among average citizens. Absent such awareness, it is extremely difficult for any nonprofit organization to become “a household name.” At the heart of efforts to raise this critical awareness are the “bell ringers” and the “bucket shakers” that volunteer their time to build “name ID and excitement” about sundry charitable ventures.

The Amy Winehouse Foundation is very fortunate to have a great reserve of troops ready to volunteer for “Amy’s Bucket Brigade.” These frontline troops are honored to “Shake A Bucket For Amy” and must always be encouraged to have fun and remain motivated in their duties.

For fun and motivation, a great Charlie Pride song – Kiss An Angel Good Morning – has been modified for “Amy’s Bucket Brigade.” Sung to the tune of KAAGM, the song is titled Shake A Bucket For Amy.

With the refrain lines on their tongues – and memories of AJW in their hearts and minds – Amy’s greatest ambassadors should be able to weather the harshest cold and the most sweltering heat as they perform their important duties.

______________________

Here is the fantastic original Charlie Pride song:

Kiss An Angel Good Morning

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib0DI8jjm8E

______________________

Here are the modified lyrics, sung to the tune of KAAGM:

.

Title: Shake A Bucket For Amy

.

Whenever we chance to meet

Some new friends on our beat

They wonder how we ever got to be this way

We’ve always got a smiling face

Anytime and any place

And everytime they ask us why

We just smile and say

.

You’ve got to

Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her know you think about her when she’s gone

Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her see you helpin’ sow her seeds of love

.

People may try to guess

The secret of our happiness

but some of them never learn that it’s a simple thing

.

The secret we’re speakin’ of

Is the only things we ever keep

Are those we give away AND we always sing

.

We’ve got to

Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her know we think about her when she’s gone

Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her see us helpin’ sow her seeds of love

.

Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her know you think about her when she’s gone

So Shake a bucket for Amy

And let her see you helpin’ sow her seeds of love

______________________

Some amateur “karaoke style” videos might soon be produced and “Amy’s Bucket Brigade” troops might have fun with them. While their work is very serious, doing that work without joyful singing is not the way of those who serve the legacy of the JadeMermaid Princess.

______________________

All music and lyrics hereinabove are owned by their respective copyright holders and are published here solely for non-commercial purposes.

Nota: para Facebook “página Amy” Administradores

Si usted es el administrador de una “página Amy” en Facebook, por favor, ajuste sus “destacados” ajustes para asegurar que el Amy Winehouse Fundación FB-Página avatar siempre aparece en el panel izquierdo de su propia página. Este ajuste de configuración es fácil de hacer:

En la parte superior derecha de la FB-Muro de la página: Haga clic en “Editar página”

En el menú de la izquierda: Haga clic en “destacados”

A continuación: Haga clic en “Editar destacados Likes”

Usted puede seleccionar hasta cinco avatares de su “Me gustó” lista para aparecer permanentemente en el lado izquierdo de su FB-Wall. Si selecciona menos de cinco “destacados” los avatares, los “blancos” seguirá siendo ocupado por selecciones al azar de la lista de “Me gustó” páginas. Estos ajustes se pueden modificar fácilmente en cualquier momento.

Cada vez que un visitante de la página ve el avatar AWF en su página, una “impresión de la toma de conciencia” se crea y los beneficios AWF de ella.

En una campaña de concienciación, todos los pasos hacia el éxito son acumulativos, a menudo, los más pequeños esfuerzos grandes dividendos.

Gracias por tu ayuda!

Help Drive “Lioness: Hidden Treasures” To #1 With Crossovers

Our Goal: Lioness: Hidden Treasures @ Number One By December 25, 2011.

The Amy Winehouse Foundation will receive approximately $1.60 per LHT unit sold. Do the math and you will understand how important it is that we do all we can to make sure LHT soars to the top spot on the charts.

By the end of November 2011, there should not be ONE fan of the songs and artists noted below that is not almost as excited as we are about the pending release of AJW’s Lioness: Hidden Treasures. (Release Date: December 5, 2011)

Below is an outline of some “fanbase-farming and crossover-driving” opportunities that can be exploited quickly. This is not a comprehensive list of our targets, but it is enough to get the game started.

_____________________

Song Title:

OUR DAY WILL COME (Reggae Version)

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=our+day+will+come&aq=f

Fan Page Targets:

Ruby And The Romantics

The Carpenters

Johnny Mathis

The Heptones

Isaac Hayes

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Julie London

Cher

ALL Reggae enthusiasts

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.
_____________________

Song Title:

WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME TOMORROW

Shirelles classic, written by Carole King.

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=will+you+still+love+me+tomorrow&aq=0&oq=will+you+still+love+

Fan Page Targets:

The Shirelles

Carole King

James Taylor

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.
_____________________

Song Title:

VALERIE

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=valerie+zutons&aq=0&oq=valerie+zu

Fan Page Targets:

The Zutons

Bruno Mars

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.
_________________________

Song Title:

GIRL FROM IPANEMA (A Bossa Nova classic)

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+girl+from+ipanema&aq=f

Fan Page Targets:

Stan Getz

Astrud Gilberto

Frank Sinatra

Lou Rawls

Julio Iglesias

ALL Bosa Nova Fans

(Amy fans in Brazil should work their “local” lists.)

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.

_______________________

Song Title:

HALFTIME

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+roots+&aq=f

Fan Page Targets:

The Roots

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.
____________________

Song Title:

A SONG FOR YOU

(“Who is Mr. Hathaway?” Definitive answer on the way.)

A youtube Menu:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=a+song+for+you&aq=f

Fan Page Targets:

Donny Hathaway

The Carpenters

Ray Charles

Leon Russell (writer)

(There are other cover artists that have done this song, but some may have their own “Christmas Records” coming, so tread especially cautiously with their fans.)

Find the Fan Sites, Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Forums, and Blogs that feature these artists. Communicate with them and let them know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is coming AND why they should be as “excited and thrilled” as you are.

______________________

This kind of “fanbase-farming and crossover-driving” is also a good way for Amy’s fans to help build a new fleet of Amy enthusiasts. To hear her is to love her, and we can give “new folks” an opportunity to do both.

Here are two samples of general messages to our targets. Change the names when appropriate. (If you think that last line is “obvious,” you would be mistaken, but that‘s another story.)

“If you love the Shirelles’ original recording of ‘Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,’ I know you will really enjoy the tribute cover that is on the new Amy Winehouse album, “Lioness: Hidden Treasures.” Please watch for its December 5, 2011 release.”

OR:

“If you love Lou Rawls’ cover of ’ Girl From Ipanema,’ I know you will really enjoy the tribute cover that is on the new Amy Winehouse album, “Lioness: Hidden Treasures.” Please watch for its December 5, 2011 release.”

_________________

IF any Amy fan has the time/skill to RAPIDLY compile a relevant “Fan Page Directory” for use in this campaign, it will be widely/quickly circulated AND its compiler will get full public credit for the effort. A “good list” could markedly increase the chances of our efforts yielding fast and positive results.

If you want to make a list, let amysarmynow know. Then, do it fast and the list will go wide VERY fast.

http://www.facebook.com/amysarmynow

Absent a targeted list, pumpers should simply find the relevant pages and work them. Facebook and Twitter “search,” and google are good places to start. (Be sure that you keep a record of what pages you have posted on. This will help prevent overly repetitious posts from becoming “obnoxious.”)
_____________________

When pumping a cover to a fan of the original, the most important step is to “exalt the original.” NEVER claim that your artist’s version is “better;” owning the cover is “merely complimentary” to the collections of the fans who love the “fabulous original” OR the “fantastic previous cover” of that original.

Your crossover target does NOT want to hear what is in it for you or your artist, if they buy the album bearing their fave song; they ONLY want to know what is in it for THEM and THEIR artist. Your artist’s cover should be cast as their “tribute” to the version that your target already loves.

A new cover provides fans of the original with an opportunity to expand their collection, spread the original music, and renew recognition of THEIR favorite artists. ALL covers lead to new discoveries of the original works and previous covers; buy the new cover and your favorite artist will benefit and his/her fanbase will be expanded.

The above info is more than enough to get us started towards doing our share to pump “excitement and anticipation” to fan segments that are a NATURAL – but potentially neglected/ignored – market for Amy’s coming album.

If chasing this market segment does not interest you, you can still do more than your share to promote the new album among your friends, associates, and other music enthusiasts. Even the most generic pumping can have great cumulative value. The important thing is NOT “how you serve,” only “that you serve.”
___________________

ALL promotion efforts must be RESPECTFUL; do not SPAM or be overly aggressive, but don’t be shy either. Contact your targets like YOU would want to be contacted. Be relentless, but not obnoxious; if you don’t know the difference, please sit this one out.

While the fan pages on Facebook and Twitter are our prime targets, we must also work ALL of the relevant forums and fan sites, and contact ALL appropriate bloggers. If you comment on any youtube versions of the songs, you can also let readers know that Lioness: Hidden Treasures is on the way.

Your local radio stations that play any of the original songs, will be “happy” to get some polite emails and postcards telling them how excited you are about the coming release of Lioness: Hidden Treasures. They will be very likely to share your excitement with their listeners.

___________________

“Number One By Christmas Morning” is NOT a slamdunk, but if we cannot deliver it we should ALL retire from the promo-game. NEVER has a gang of wildcat promoters had more ammunition than we have with this release. If we cannot win with this one, we can never win with any other disc.

We should expect great efforts from the record companies on this album. We won’t be happy to see them rely on “Amy Momentum” to take this release to #1. If they think Numero Uno is “guaranteed,” that’s fine. Then, there job must be to make LHT a MASSIVE #1 by a HUGE margin. A lesser effort by the pros should not be expected or accepted.

The beneficiaries of the work being done by the Amy Winehouse Foundation deserve a grandslam from this project. While there will be MANY more opportunities to help well-fund the AWF, Lioness: Hidden Treasures is a BIG ONE and everybody in the mix needs to help make it all it can be.

We know what we need to do, in order to win this one for Amy. If you get tired of pumping, pump some more and your weariness will pass. Let’s get started today and not stop until we KNOW that on Christmas morning of 2011, we can give our JadeMermaid Princess a suitable and appropriate holiday gift:

The Number One Record On The Planet.

Thanks For Your Help! Now, please, let’s go get the job done.

Note To Facebook “Amy Page” Admins

If you are the admin of an “Amy Page” on Facebook, please adjust your “Featured” settings to assure that the Amy Winehouse Foundation FB-Page avatar always appears in the “Likes” panel of your own page. This setting adjustment is easy to make:

At the Top-Right of Your FB-Wall Page: Click “Edit Page”

On the Left-Side Menu: Click “Featured”

Then: Click “Edit Featured Likes”

You may select up to FIVE avatars on your “Liked” list to permanently appear on the “Likes” panel of your FB-Wall. If you select fewer than five “featured” avatars, the “blanks” will continue to be filled by random selections from your list of “Liked” pages. These adjustments can be easily modified at any time.

Each time a page viewer sees the AWF avatar on your page, an “awareness building impression” is created and the AWF benefits from it.

In an awareness campaign, all strides toward success are cumulative; often, the smallest efforts pay BIG dividends.

Thanks for your help!

Building Awareness: The Amy Winehouse Foundation

The Amy Winehouse Foundation has been established in Amy’s memory to support charitable activities in both the UK and abroad that provide help, support or care for young people; especially those who are in need by reason of ill health, disability, financial disadvantage or addiction.

Amy’s fans now have a unique opportunity to help build what could become her most important legacy; in the field of philanthropy.

The legend of Amy’s remarkable life will be with the world forever, and it is a powerful base upon which we can help to build a strong and loyal following of support for the AWF. Through the AWF, we will have a chance to help better the lives of MANY thousands of people in need. And, we will do that in the name of someone whom we all love, adore and admire.

We all wish that Amy was here to lead this effort, but we cannot forsake this critical and worthwhile task due to our own sadness. Now, in her absence, Amy’s work must truly be our own.

Here are just a few “brain dump” tips that may help us get started in our longterm task of building awareness about the AWF.

__________________

* If you have not yet “Liked” the Amy Winehouse Foundation’s FB-Page, please do so now.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousefoundation

__________________

* If you are not following these Twitter accounts, please do so now. They will help you stay up to date on events. Please retweet as appropriate.

https://twitter.com/#!/AmysFoundation

https://twitter.com/#!/search/mitchwinehouse

__________________

* If you have not been regularly placing links to both the AWF FB-Page and the AWF-website on YOUR OWN FB-Pages, please begin to do so now.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousefoundation

http://www.amywinehousefoundation.co.uk/

__________________

* If you post on any “Amy-Forums,” please consider placing a link to the AWF FB-Page and/or the AWF-website in your forum sigline.

__________________

* If you comment on any Amy blogs or youtube videos, please consider including the AWF links along with your comments.

__________________

* If you have “Liked” any “Amy Pages” on Facebook, please consider respectfully asking the owners of those pages to begin actively promoting awareness about the AWF.

__________________

* If you are the admin of an “Amy Page” on Facebook, please consider adjusting your “Featured” settings to assure that the AWF FB-Page avatar always appears in the left-hand panel of your own page. This setting adjustment is easy to make:

At the Top-Right of Your Wall Page: Click “Edit Page”

On the Left-Side Menu: Click “Featured”

Then: Click “Edit Featured Likes”

You may select up to FIVE avatars on your “Liked” list to permanently appear on the left-hand side of your FB-Wall. If you select fewer than five “featured” avatars, the “blanks” will continue to be filled by random selections from your list of “Liked” pages. These adjustments can be modified at any time. Each time a page viewer sees the AWF avatar on your page, an “awareness building impression” is created and the AWF benefits from it.

__________________

* Please consider contacting all of the “Amy Pages” in this directory to respectfully encourage their admins to begin promoting awareness of the AWF.

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

__________________

* If you live near a location where “Amy’s Bucket Brigade” is collecting donations for the AWF, please consider volunteering to “Shake A Bucket For Amy.” You will have a lot of fun, raise awareness about the AWF, and FEEL the love that the donors have for Amy.

__________________

* If you are an online retailer, please consider promoting one or more of your items on the Amy’s Army Now FB-Page.

http://www.facebook.com/amysarmynow

Any general-audience merchandise can be offered, provided that a minimum of 25% of the gross-sale proceeds are pledged as a direct and prompt donation to the AWF.

Amy-related items would likely be great sellers, but other merchandise may do well, too. Many thousands of people view the scores of “Amy Pages” each day and a good many of the page owners will be pleased to help you promote your business in exchange for your generous support of the AWF. Even one item listed to benefit the AWF may lead to numerous crossover sales.

If there is a demand for this concept, the admins at the Amy’s Army Now Facebook Page can provide a standalone “store-page” on Facebook. Participating merchants would list their own items, collect payment for their merchandise, ship the merchandise to their buyers, and promptly fulfill the direct AWF pledge noted in their listings. Such a venue would likely be heavily promoted by many of the sundry “Amy Pages.”

__________________

* If you are a blogger or a writer of squidoo-lenses, please do some research on the internet and write something nice about the AWF. Every single extra positive story on the web about the AWF is a brick in the “awareness path” that we must build.

__________________

* As awareness builds about the AWF, please be ready to step up and do the things that must be done to make our legacy-building efforts a success.

__________________

The world’s economy is in the toilet. Many people are hurting and troubled. It seems like a tough time to embark on building a philanthropic enterprise. But, tough times are when such an effort is most needed. If the army of fans that Amy built fails to answer the call, who will?

That we currently feel a collective sense of overwhelming loss and grief – and likely will for a very long time – cannot be employed as an excuse for our inaction. When Amy was with us, she gave us everything that she could give. Now, it is our time, heart crushed though we are, to pay forward some of the joy that Amy gave us.

Together, we can help build the kind of world-class philanthropic legacy that is fitting for the likes of our JadeMermaid Princess. Let’s do it well and be honored that it is left for us to do. Let’s get started, today. Thanks!

Easy To Look Back In Anger; But Useless

DISCLAIMER: There is nothing profound herein; just a few random thoughts by the heartbroken, for the broken hearted.

“The blood-alcohol level was not compatible with life.”

The verdict of “death by misadventure” bears both gifts and harsh arrows. We can all live with and learn from both offerings.

First off, we should be more than a “likkle” pleased that contentions that Amy had long ago stopped using socially unacceptable and illegal drugs now appear to be largely supported by science. Yet, we are sad that one false agent of relief simply replaced another; that tells us that the pain never really left her and it hurts us to know that she was still hurting so badly.

Naturally, we are more than a bit angry at Amy. We have been and will long remain in severe pain; it seems not unreasonable to be mad at Amy for doing something that left us so much pain. But, while sound minds think of the inevitable consequences of actions, we must recognize that minds in turmoil seldom do. Thus, such anger must be quickly quelled and any imagined transgression forgiven.

Some of us are also still angry at ourselves. The collective WE knew she was in trouble, and while we are not sure what we could have done to save her, we are tormented by thoughts that we “should have done something.” While this anger is the hardest to tame, it is also the most crippling and self-destructive. That there is enough blame to distribute generously is likely true, but dwelling on our share – and that of others – in it, leads down a rough dead-end path that only delays our own recovery journey.

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As a nearly lifelong teetotaler, it might be easy for me to launch into an “anti alcohol” tirade and wonder aloud why the most dangerous psychoactive drug ever created is the ONLY one that is socially acceptable and legally vended almost everywhere. Such a rant would be silly and would teach us nothing.

In fact, blaming alcohol for the disaster is likely akin to blaming a firearm maker for the misuse of his product. Both commodities can be used safely, but many times neither are. In an exam of either, early education as to their inherent risks remains the best defense against calamities like the one we acknowledge today.

In the USA, about 300 deaths are recorded each year to be the result of alcohol poisoning. Such poisoning is noted as a “contributing cause” in ten-times that many non motor-vehicle fatalities. And, about 50,000 folks present at USA hospitals for the syndrome annually.

The actual number of deaths from the condition is likely very much higher than reported. Most are noted as “death by natural causes,” due to a lack of sophistication in medical examiners; and, due to many physicians seeking any device by which to shield survivors from added pain.

It is now estimated that upwards of 200,000 USA college students are regularly harming their physical health via “binge drinking.” Such folks are the most at risk of dying from their misadventures and are the least likely to seek and receive professional help to identify the causes of their behavior. That circumstance must be reversed and the easiest way to do it is to assure, by any means necessary, that the “reasons” for such potentially self-ending conduct are identified and treated long before a frantic 911 call is placed by a shocked friend or relative.

Obviously, since more than 40% of traffic fatalities are caused by folks exhibiting some symptom of alcohol poisoning – confusion and loss of normal reflexes  – every safe driver and cautious pedestrian has an interest in solving the problem. Please wait until your friend or relative is killed by such an impaired driver, before you suggest that “it is too expensive” to identify and treat such roadway time bombs. Having the means to solve the problem and not employing it borders on being sinful; no point in sinning, just to save a few bucks.

If you are reading this from outside of the USA, please note that many studies now indicate that “the problem” is actually much greater in South American and European countries than it is in the USA.

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Folks who expected “closure” from today’s verdict are likely not feeling fulfilled. When a loss is so monumental, closure is elusive and may, in fact, be mythical. Our challenge remains to avoid the measuring of our sorrow by the worth and value we have placed upon the one we lost. As the “Shakespeare Mashup” notes:

They are but beggars that can count their worth;

but our love for her had grown to such excess, we

could not sum up sum of half our wealth. Yet, our

sorrow must not be measured by her worth to us,

for then our pain will have no end, and we, no peace.

  

For many, the pain of such a stunningly immeasurable loss would not have been cured by any “verdict” other than that the whole episode was something that had visited our sleep as a nightmare. Thus, all we can do is keep moving forward, always carrying the pain, while trying to leave the anger behind.

Her soul slid away, but don’t look back in anger. At least not today.

New On Facebook: Amy Jade Winehouse Page Directory

A new Amy Jade Winehouse Page Directory has now gone live on facebook.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Jade-Winehouse-Page-Directory/304144209602839?sk=wall

The directory contains links to AJW pages on numerous general-audience venues. Facebook fan pages, forums, blogs, websites, photo/art/video sites are all welcome to have their links included.

Pages from all nations – published in all languages – are invited to include their links in the directory.

Page admins and users can submit their links on the page’s “Directory Thread.” The directory will be updated, as new links are submitted.

Some linked pages are more active and developed than others; all are respectfully presented. Users can bookmark the directory and have fast access to their favorite pages.

AJW wanted all of her friends to “live the dream.” Now, it is OUR job to “keep the dream alive.” Hopefully, a perpetual directory of “Amy Pages” will, in a tiny way, contribute to that effort.

Can Amy’s Fans Die From Sadness?

Nearly 50-years ago, the King of Late Night Television, Johnny Carson (1925-2005), predicted:

“We are approaching a time when Americans will live in a nearly perpetual state of grief over the loss of people whom they have never met.”

The King went on to explain his view of the power of television to build “connections” between entertainment fans and the celebrities they love. He noted that, in past generations, there had been a “barrier” between fans and their celebrities that would vanish as the power of television created virtual relationships between fans and their favorite entertainers.

“Celebrities are now brought into the living rooms and the bedrooms of their fans. The bonds that will grow between entertainers and their fans will be similar to those between family members. When those celebrities pass away, the sadness fans experience will be enormous.”

Carson’s sophisticated and prescient predictions were based in his understanding of what he saw as the ultimate media. Absent from the formation of his view was the internet, near perpetual touring by entertainers, the constant news-cycle, a ubiquitous entertainment and gossip press, fleets of video-paparazzi stalkers producing endless youtube videos, and the willingness of many modern celebs to circulate and live among their fans.

Nowhere has the truth of Carson’s speculation been recently more evident than in worldwide fans’ emotional reactions to the death of songbird Amy Jade Winehouse.

Amy, once considered the Queen of Camden – subsequently, the world’s Princess of Jazz and Soul – was arguably the most accessible and egalitarian entertainer of modern times. She personally met with and was chatted-up by many thousands of her fans and she always wanted to know their names.

Her autograph hand was virtually always generous, and even her wisecracks were felt as sweet kisses by their auto-hound targets. Day after day, through joy and pain, fans were glued to youtube; living their lives punctuated by Amy’s adventures. Princess Amy was “of the people” and her people loved her for it.

Combine the open and public nature of Amy’s life with the extreme power of her musical art, and it is easy to understand the “relationship” that her fans developed with her. That closeness can be dismissed by some distant observers, but it is very real to Amy’s most ardent admirers.

When Michael Jackson passed away, the grief of his fans was seen across the planet. A sense of “closure” was delivered to MJ fans via an understandable explanation of what had happened and by a spectacular, stunning and beautiful memorial service broadcast to every corner of the world.

Amy’s fans were granted no such professionally managed closure. They have been forced to rely on their own devices to assemble pieces of an elusive grief-management puzzle. Some have done relatively well with their self-directed grieving; aided by each other, via internet connections and the willingness to “talk it out” with fellow fans. But many are left stunned, dazed, confused, and broken hearted; with a feeling of hopelessness that is not fully recognized until they summon the desperate courage to openly state their feelings to strangers on internet message boards.

Many of the grievers are extremely young; their coping skills are not finely honed and they are showing sundry signs of lapsing into states of severe and dangerous depression. Because young people tend to view their present moods and feelings as “everlasting and never-ending,” they are at particular risk of being unsuccessful at trying to self-manage their grief.

Because the adult concept that “this too shall pass” is foreign to youth, many young fans are openly expressing their desire to “join Amy.” Such suicidal ideations are terribly dangerous and must not go unaddressed by friends, families, and mental-health professionals.

Amy would be totally mortified to know that any of her fans would even consider harming themselves to escape their grief. The JadeMermaid Princess was all about “living the dream,” not ending it with a nightmarish “solution.” AJW knew a lot about pain and she understood that it was a natural and unavoidable part of living. Amy would understand how her depressed fans feel and she would demand that they buck-up and get professional help to deal with their feelings.

If you are having trouble dealing with Amy’s passing, do not be ashamed of your feelings; they are common and natural. Tell your family and friends how you feel and ask for their guidance on how to best get through this very difficult time. If you are having symptoms of clinical depression – can’t eat, can’t sleep, can’t focus – seek immediate professional help. If you are in school, talk to your teachers and guidance counselors; they will know how to help. If you lack financial resources, simply present at a hospital emergency room and tell them you are in trouble; you will not be turned away and the pros will help you.

Amy’s troops – you and I – have a lifetime of work to do. Preserving her legend and establishing her philanthropic legacy is going to be a long and hard task. We cannot afford to lose even one of US. Please don’t add more grief to the world by contemplating leaving it too soon. Please don’t dishonor your JadeMermaid Princess by giving up. You will only die of sadness, if you allow it to happen. If your tears won’t dry on their own, seek help and do it today.

Will I Feel Better If I Hate BFC For AJW‘s Sake?

 

I’ve never liked talking about AJW’s personal life. It makes me feel like a filthy tabloid monster instead of an adoring fan. But, there are some very uncomfortable – even controversial – things I need to say and then I will try never to speak of them again.

The “Hate Blake Train” continues to roll down the tracks and it shows no signs of derailing into the reality ditch. People in pain often seek to lay blame and God knows that Blake Fielder-Civil is a seemingly deserving, easy and convenient target. But, keeping it real and avoiding the trap of deluding ourselves demands a more objective exam of the circumstance.

By preface, let me say, that I find everything about BFC to be disgusting and despicable. As much as any fan, I certainly wish that Amy had never laid eyes on the creature. His conduct and his motives have been vile since long before the day we learned his name. He is a shallow, tragic and pitiful parasitic force that masqueraded as a supportive muse; a really bad guy whose name should be stricken from our collective memories.

But, I refuse to “blame” BFC for “destroying” Amy. I am not going to hate BFC, just as I would not “hate” a rabid dog or a hungry shark in the sea; like those creatures, BFC was simply doing what his kind does. And, I know that haters always risk becoming that which they hate, and the last thing I want or need is to become a BFC.

Would I trade all of the original music that, in part, sprang from Amy’s foul experiences with BFC just to have her back, living in Las Vegas and becoming the greatest cover-singer in the history of music? Bet everything you own that I would indeed make that trade.

But, I know too that the Amy we loved was the sum of her experiences. Some of the music we declared to be “eternal masterpieces” would not exist if BFC – or another bad actor from the world’s endless inventory of “stupid men” – had not entered the frame.

BFC and the woman who believed she loved him more than her own life suffered from the same disease; an affliction they were primed to contract from an early age. The permissive and grossly mistaken notion that marijuana use is not harmful to adolescents in their psychologically formative years can as easily be blamed for “causing” many of Amy’s challenges as can BFC. Amy’s trough of natural coping skills was running on empty long prior to her encounter with the incarcerated one.

Those skills were simply never allowed to properly develop in a cultural environment that viewed kids smoking weed as normal, and saw psychotropic prescriptions as an acceptable substitute for naturally learning to deal with the pains of life. When Mary Jane and easily prescribed antidepressants are always ready to blunt the pains of teendom, coping skills are just not needed. When adulthood strikes, even more insidious masking substances are the only refuge and the disease of lifelong addiction is happy to accept its invitation.

A mutual love of drug-escapism is enough to temporarily defeat the sure scientific paradigm that opposites attract. Enter the similarly damaged manchild, and it was easy for the pair to imagine themselves as “soulmates.” That one of the duo was hopelessly corrupt and the other haplessly sweet and decent does not change the dynamics of the interaction between two equally ill transactors. It does, though, obviously, make us see the transaction as “unfair” and allows many to justify their BFC hatred.

That Amy intellectually realized that a mutual love of dope was “not enough” to keep the BFC connection alive is a clear indication that she was making serious efforts to proceed towards recovery long before 2010. As is common for addictive personalities, Amy likely rationalized that one kind of addiction was “worse” than another and that she could “handle the lesser evil.” It’s never true, but the addict never sees the lie; not ever.

As Amy’s partial recovery stalled, BFC was out of the physical mix and there were additional opportunities for third-parties to act. Why not blame the best intended – and blatantly false – popular notion that “you can’t save someone who is not ready to be saved?” Please trust me when I tell you that my own personal experience has repeatedly proven the falsity of that pop-psych myth. Yet, decent and responsible people, acting in goodfaith, continue to refrain from militant and litigious interventions on behalf of relatives and associates mired in life-threatening addictions. Should such reticent folks be blamed and hated, too?

Perhaps we should blame and hate the pharmaceutical companies that make $BILLIONS by emphasizing the biological elements of the disease of addiction. Treating the affliction with drugs and ignoring its psychological components profits the pill-pushers and shields those closest to an addict from charges of inaction, but does nothing to resolve the causes of the tornadoes and earthquakes that bounce about in the addict’s head. Symptom abatement is simple, curative “talk it out” treatments are complex and much less profitable.

Could it be that the entertainment congloms that profit so handsomely from the pains of their songbirds bear at least some responsibility in the instant fiasco? Maybe the “go make me some money and harm yourself anyway you choose” business model is so fundamentally flawed that it needs to be labeled a public health menace and scrapped. Maybe we should hate the “heartless” record corps and promoters.

Maybe we should blame and hate a government system that sees the prison industrial complex as offering a better solution to mental health issues than the cheaper and more effective healthcare delivery scheme.

Or, maybe, all of US should be blamed and hated. We cheated ourselves, like we feared we would, we knew she was in trouble, we should have done much more. Pointing our blame finger always points three more fingers back at US; saccharine, but true.

So many to blame and hate. So many shrubs of denial to hide behind. So much pain to deflect. So little time to pick the appropriate target of our impotent rage, yet we cannot survive if “someone” is not tagged as liable. Pick the villain and do it now, or our own guilt will overwhelm our grief. Make it an obvious bad guy that did evil things, make it neat and tidy, make it easy. Let it make sense and make it explainable. Be sure that it is simple and elementary, and in no way implicates me or mine. Forget about truth, we can live with the absolution of a half-truth or even a lie.

When we hear BFC explain that he “could not compete financially” with Amy and that “scoring the dope” she demanded made him “feel useful,” we see a mentally-ill child trapped in the dangerous body of a grown man. Can we really demand and expect understanding for Amy’s troubles, if we hate those similarly situated? If we resort to hating the ill, is there really much at all about us that is worth saving?

I understand how hard it is to find a moral equivalency between the mindless assaults of “Amy-haters” AND the hatred that many of Amy’s fans continue to express for BFC. But, that equivalency exists and any part we play in feeding it diminishes us, reflects poorly on Amy, and makes our promotion of the legend and the legacy less solid, less pure and less effective than it might otherwise be.

Looking for places to lay blame and for people to hate is a shallow exercise, when none of its output can change anything that has gone before. We cannot get “justice” for Amy, no matter how hard we hate, no matter where we place blame.

And, please, let’s not forget that BFC was a victim of the same mind crushing disease that The Amy Winehouse Foundation seeks to combat. Let go of the hate; it is counterproductive and the JadeMermaid Princess would never sanction it.

Now, if I can, somehow, just learn to perfectly practice what I preach…

A Random List of Amy-Tribute Art

 

This is a non-comprehensive list of youtube links to tribute art that Amy’s devoted fans have created in her honor.

We all have a near absolute personal vision of what Amy is “supposed to look like.” It is interesting to note that while many of us have a rather uniform and shared vision of her physical features, that vision is not universal.

This list is not a talent contest, just a randomly assembled exhibit that might be used to start your hunt for your favorite Amy Art. Some of the artists are more technically skilled than others; all offered their art in an unabashed expression of their respect and love for the mega-star.

You may enjoy doing your own youtube search and assembling the links that you find most appealing.

Drawings

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8z37llOZoBg&feature=fvwrel

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM2cd7PiiVg&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq1_YUufueY&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PAuGzpatwA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXZNoTcCvCg&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmZkrrX9b5E&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMZpJO1bvhM&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBMalwQVxLA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ntte21WQZ0M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REcaDysuDGw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHvADYcMHD0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJIQLxsqbH8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oa3JJI9pJ90

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm9ApxAGD2Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6v3kdLsTHts

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNdTqiRyeWE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdJuMlE-qVY

 

Paintings

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYCRPuf5qGo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvnke63BN-8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEt0oDXe-v4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNqt9rqhM-g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1H1YVo2_cQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hREkSMmXIAM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LS7-icMhgc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mfZKZ3iOWQ

 

Sculpture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8c_C-uZnDU&feature=autoplay&list=ULSmo9T3stEQA&lf=mfu_in_order&playnext=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8c_C-uZnDU

 

Computer Assist

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDqPlFaUTR0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPYHZd__8N4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g036WdOehzc&feature=results_main&playnext=1&list=PLC05529EA0114E915

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEIkBCRkCwA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-M66kGHb8Q

 

WordPress Artists

http://chichiartworks.wordpress.com/2011/10/13/painting-amy/

 

Have fun, enjoy the music and the images, and remember Amy.

Directory Of Amy Jade Winehouse Tribute Pages

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NOTE: This Directory Has Been Vastly Expanded At This Link:

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

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This directory is meant to make it a little easier for Amy fans to find pages that may interest them. If you bookmark this page, you will always have easy access to the listed pages. This is not a comprehensive directory; it will be updated regularly.

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If you want your pages listed here, post a link in the “Directory Thread” on the Amy’s Army Facebook Wall, and your pages will be added to the directory. All Pro-Amy Facebook Pages, Twitter Pages, Goog+ Pages, Blogs and Websites are welcome. USA and Foreign National pages are welcome.

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Some listed pages are more active than others. Activity on all pages will vary, from time to time. Readers should distribute this directory, if they wish to. It will be posted on a number of sites and forums, and it may result in some extra visitors to your pages.

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Amy Winehouse Foundation

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousefoundation

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Camden Square Sign (Amy Winehouse)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Camden-Square-Sign-amy-winehouse/247122268649656

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Amy’s Army Now

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amys-Army/255139807849800#!/pages/Amys-Army/255139807849800

https://twitter.com/#!/amysarmynow

https://plus.google.com/s/hank20miller#101465050162137240974/posts

https://amysarmynow.wordpress.com/

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We Love U Amy Winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/pages/We-Love-U-Amy-Winehouse/169131246500299

http://twitter.com/#!/weloveUamy

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Amy Winehouse Forever

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-forever/248051715216242

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Amy Winehouse Princess of Jazz and Soul

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Princess-of-jazz-and-soul/123709154394242?sk=wall

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Fan Club Amy Winehouse Trouble Mexico

http://www.facebook.com/FanClub.Trouble.Mexico

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Amy Winehouse Brasil

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousebr

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Amy aun Estas en Nuestros Corasones n_n

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-aun-Estas-en-Nuestros-Corazones-n_n/150629491693659

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La Realeza Del Jazz, Soul y Blues / The Royalty of Jazz, Soul And Blues

http://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Realeza-Del-Jazz-Soul-y-Blues-The-Royalty-of-Jazz-Soul-And-Blues/280504368636058

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I Like Amy Winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/iLikeAmyWinehouse

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AMY JADE – WINEHOUSE

http://www.facebook.com/pages/AMY-JADE-WINEHOUSE/232971223416674

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Amy Winehouse – Thankyou for the Music 1983-2011

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Thankyou-for-the-Music-1983-2011/124443190981217

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Amy Winehouse Love

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Love/136897736403327

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amy winehouse friends

http://www.facebook.com/pages/amy-winehouse-friends/274441782453

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Amy Winehouse RIP

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-RIP/199211903482948

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Amy Winehouse her voice came from her SOUL

http://www.facebook.com/AmyWinehousesangfromhersoul

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Rest in Peace Amy Winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rest-in-Peace-Amy-Winehouse/208005065917087

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RIP Amy Jade Winehouse 1983 – 2011

http://www.facebook.com/pages/RIP-Amy-Jade-Winehouse-1983-2011/150752415001744

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Petition to get Amy Winehouse a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-get-Amy-Winehouse-a-star-on-the-Hollywood-Walk-Of-Fame/287547421271757

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Fã-clube Amy Winehouse Trouble

http://www.facebook.com/fcamywinehousetrouble

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R.I.P Amy Winehouse, Gone Too Soon

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousegonetoosoon

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Fan Club Amy Winehouse Trouble Chile

http://www.facebook.com/Winehousetroublechile

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Fanclub Amy Winehouse Trouble Germany

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fanclub-Amy-Winehouse-Trouble-Germany/290619690949573

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Fan Club Amy Winehouse Trouble España

http://www.facebook.com/Winehousetroubleespana

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Amy Winehouse_sj

http://www.facebook.com/pages/AmyWinehouse_sj/103370143049859

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Mitch Winehouse Official

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mitch-Winehouse-Official/142947145774701

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I ♥ amy winehouse.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/I-amy-winehouse/233671643328751?sk=wall&filter=1

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Amy Jade Winehouse: The Legend NEVER Dies

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehouselegendneverdies?sk=wall&filter=1

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FanClub Amy Winehouse Trouble Greece

http://www.facebook.com/fanclubamywinehousetroublegreece

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Amy Winehouse – Australia

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Australia/162199987135176?sk=wall&filter=1

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Amy Winehouse Türkiye

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-T%C3%BCrkiye/145157822201402?sk=wall&filter=1

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Tears Dry On Their own Amy winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tears-Dry-On-Their-own-Amywinehouse/301456959951

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RIP Amy Winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/pages/RIP-Amy-Winehouse/222319837811756?sk=wall&filter=1

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Amy Winehouse Perú <3

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Per%C3%BA-3/120321174645426?sk=wall&filter=1

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Amy Winehouse ♫ Chile

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Chile/106771636019293?sk=wall&filter=1

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Amy Winehouse Mexico

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-M%C3%A9xico/180668075300608

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Hommage à Amy Winehouse.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hommage-%C3%A0-Amy-Winehouse/183324548398522?sk=wall&filter=1

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I love Amy Winehouse’s Album FRANK

http://www.facebook.com/pages/I-love-Amy-Winehouses-Album-FRANK/202973318938?sk=wall&filter=1

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Tony Bennett Duets II

http://www.facebook.com/TonyBennettDuetsII

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Amy Winehouse Forum

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-Forum/156856184391807?sk=wall

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R.I.P. Amy Winehouse

http://www.facebook.com/pages/RIP-Amy-Winehouse/120797278016621?sk=wall

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Amy Winehouse for Christmas No.1

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Winehouse-for-Christmas-No1/236141033105674

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Amy Lovers

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Lovers/191286430945782

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More Pages Will Be Added As They Come Online.

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NOTE: This Directory Has Been Vastly Expanded At This Link:

http://www.facebook.com/amywinehousedirectory

A Little History

When the JadeMermaid Princess was 13-years old, she wrote a letter to the headmistress at Sylvia Young Theatre School.

“I want to go somewhere where I’m stretched right to my limits, and perhaps beyond to singing lessons without being told to shut up. But mostly I have this dream to be very famous. To work on stage. It’s my life long ambition. I want people to hear my voice and just forget their troubles for five minutes. I want to be remembered for being an actress, a singer, for sell out concerts, sell out West-end and Broadway shows, and for being just…me.”

Mission Statement

The mission of the Amy’s Army Now Blog is to help preserve the legend – and to help promote the philanthropic legacy – of Amy Jade Winehouse, the most accomplished Jazz Singer of modern times.