Album Cover: Mariah Carey - Music Box

Album Cover

Album: Mariah Carey - Music Box

Released: August 31, 1993

Art Direction, Design: Josephine DiDonato

Photography: Daniela Federici

Source:

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/8057856-Mariah-Carey-Music-Box

Album Cover: the Breeders - Last Splash

Album Cover

Album: the Breeders - Last Splash

Released: August 30, 1993

Photography: Jason Love

Art Direction / Design: Vaughan Oliver

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/754980-The-Breeders-Last-Splash

https://4ad.com/news/27/6/2023/lastsplash30thanniversaryoriginalanalogedition

Album Cover: Oasis - Definitely Maybe

Album Cover

Album: Definitely Maybe

Released: August 29, 1994 

Models: Liam Gallagher, Noel Gallagher, Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs, Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan, and Tony McCarroll

Photographer: Michael Spencer Jones

Art Direction and Design: Brian Cannon for Microdot – sleeve concept, design, art direction

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Jason Lozano - Camouflage Body Art

Artist: Jason Lozano

via Beyond the Canvas Official  

Dance: AQUA - Barbie Girl

Choreographer: Erin Babbs

via DancingWithYT 

Cosplay is an Art: Japan Expo 2023 Paris Cosplay Music Video at Paris-Nord Villepinte

via NZO MV 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Dolce & Gabbana - Puglia 2023: Alta Moda

Designers:  Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

Choreographer: Giuliano Peparini

via Dolce & Gabbana 

Travel + Leisure: Madeira, Portugal by Elliot Chau

If you have time to look through some amazing travel photography, check out Elliott's Instagram (@lifewithelliott). 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Travel + Leisure (@travelandleisure)

 

Faxing on a Wedding Night

The first night as newlyweds holds the most indelible memories. I recall my own night, twenty years back, though it left a lasting mark for entirely different reasons. 

As is customary for just-wed couples, we arrived at our hotel room shortly after pledging our vows. Filled with mutual affection, encompassed by kisses and laughter, we recognized the limited window to shed our wedding attire before the reception. 

Thankfully, my newlywed wife had chosen an overskirt wedding gown. With the removal of the overskirt, I spontaneously knelt, elevated her dress, and proceeded to assist with her undergarments. Yet, her pause gave rise to a different discourse.

"Uh... There's something I need to tell you," she said confided uneasily detaining my eager hands, "Something is wrong down there. It smells." 

My response must have conveyed reassurance, as we found ourselves laying on the floor, my weight atop hers. Unzipping my tuxedo pants, I adjusted her position, and our intimacy deepened. Something did feel a little odd as I penetrated into her, arousing my curiosity. Withdrawing, I investigated, and discovered a piece of toilet paper entwined along one side of me. 

It turned out that before our wedding, my bride had used toilet paper as a temporary solution until she found a tampon. 

Phil Interlandi, PLAYBOY (August 1994)

Travel + Leisure: Porto, Portugal by Thomas (@themodernleper)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Travel + Leisure (@travelandleisure)

 

Body Art: Toni H Carné - Sara Bernabeu

Artist: Toni H Carné 

Model: Sara Bernabeu

via ToniHCarne

Dance: AQUA - Barbie Girl (Tiësto Remix)

Choreographer: Trang Lê I Zumba Dance I Abaila DanceFitness

via Abaila Dance Fitness

Cosplay is an Art: San Diego Comic Con 2023

via Justin Cosplay 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Valentino "Un Château"

Creative Director: Pierpaolo Piccioli

via Valentino

Don't Disturb, Unless for Sex

Amidst the COVID lockdown in Spring 2020, my girlfriend and I conducted our work activities from my condo. This arrangement proved to be incredibly rewarding, as it granted me the opportunity to indulge in afternoon pleasures without any hindrance to my work responsibilities. On certain occasions, a mere call to her and a suggestion of intimacy would promptly lead us to the bedroom.

Don Orehek, PLAYBOY (August 1994)

Wouldn't mind this Elvis Impersonator

First of all, Doug Sneyd draws some beautiful breast. Secondly, I wouldn't mind watching this Elvis Impersonator perform. Especially if the impersonator has breast like that.

Doug Sneyd, PLAYBOY (February 1995)

Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton - Islands in the Stream

Music Appreciation

On August 15, 1983, "Islands in the Stream" marked its debut as the lead single from Kenny Rogers' album Eyes That See in the Dark, with the added vocal prowess of country pop sensation Dolly Parton. This timeless duet masterfully fuses country, pop, and soul elements, brilliantly showcasing the undeniable chemistry and musical synergy between the two artists.

Originally penned by the Bee Gees, the song was initially intended for R&B legends Marvin Gaye or Diana Ross, embodying a different musical direction. However, it was thoughtfully reimagined by Rogers and Parton for their collaborative rendition, transforming the track into the enchanting duet we know today.

Bearing an irresistible melody and a universally relatable theme of enduring love, "Islands in the Stream" has etched itself as an everlasting classic that continually tugs at the heartstrings of global audiences. The song ascended to the pinnacle of musical achievement, claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Simultaneously, it commanded the Country and Adult Contemporary charts, further solidifying its cross-genre appeal and enduring impact.

via CMT

Sources:

Wikipedia

 

Album Cover: The Who - Who's Next

Album Cover

Album: The Who - Who's Next

Released: August 14, 1971

Photographer: Ethan Russell

Cover Art Designer: John Kosh

Models: Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle,  Keith Moon

Source: 

Wikipedia

Dance: AQUA - Barbie Girl

Choreographer: Shaun Paul Smith

Dancer: Amelia Gething

via Amelia Gething 

Rebecca Gayheart

Acting Appreciation 

"Your face is the first thing people see when they meet you. So, why use anything but Noxzema?" the commercial asked while featuring a young Rebecca Gayheart. The Noxzema girl was what us 90s teens knew her as. 

Rebecca Gayheart is an American actress known for her work in film and television. She was born in Hazard, Kentucky, on August 12, 1971. She began her career as a model, winning a local modeling contest at the age of 15. She moved to New York City where she completed her high school education at the Professional Children's School and attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.

In her teens, the 5'6" Gayheart modeled for top fashion designers and appeared in magazines, shopping catalogs, and television commercials. It was the Noxzema commercial, which began airing in 1991, that brought her national recognition. 

She transitioned to acting and quickly gained attention for her talent and natural charisma. In 1992, she was casted in her first major role on a soap opera, then got a recurring role in the Vanishing Son action series. In 1995, she joined Beverly Hills, 90210 as the recurring character Antonia Marchette, Luke Perry's character's love interest.

She would then appear in other films such as Nothing to Lose (1997), Scream 2 (1997), Urban Legend (1998), Jawbreaker (1999), and television series such as Earth 2 (1994-1995), Wasteland (1999), and Vanished (2006).

In 2001, Gayheart was involved in a car accident in Los Angeles that resulted in the death of a nine-year old boy walking across a street. A few months later, she released a statement on the incident saying, "The pain of this tragedy will live with me forever." She pleaded no contest to vehicular manslaughter, sentenced to three years probation, one year suspension of her driver's license, and 750 community service. She also settled a wrongful death lawsuit. 

by Glenn Francis (2019)

Maxim (Oct 1998)

Noxzema (1993)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001261/?ref_=nmmi_mi_nm

http://www.rebecca-gayheart.de/articles/main.html

Dahlia Sky

Acting Appreciation

Born on August 10, 1989, in Lake Elsinore, California, southeast of Los Angeles, Melissa Sims-Hayes, also known as Dahlia Sky, was an American porn star and adult model.

While Dahlia was homeschooled in her younger years, she attended horseback ridging, gymnastics, dance and theatre classes. In a 2014 interview, she states that she was a bookworm and loved to read as well as play video games, when she was young. She also revealed she lost her virginity at 16 years old. 

After graduating high school, Dahlia Sky worked odd jobs at fast food restaurants and modeling. In 2010, she was contacted by an adult film talent scout through MySpace. With the help from her agent, Mark Spiegler, her career catapulted. 

The 5'6" blonde bombshell appeared in over 200 adult films winning a huge number of recognitions including "Female Performer of the Year," "Best Actress," "Best Supporting Actress" nominations at AVN and XBIZ, to name a few. 

Interestingly, her first gangbang was in 2013, and her first and only double anal, double vaginal, and triple penetration, was in 2015. 

A couple of years later, on July 29, 2017, Dahlia announced her retirement via Twitter. 

In 2020, she revealed that she had stage IV breast cancer and homeless. A week before her 32nd birthday, she committed suicide. 

Being a sex worker, mental health is of utmost importance, something that is unfortunately ignored. Any type of illness a sex worker encounters can be devastating to a career. 

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 1-800-273-8255.

Sources:

https://www.survivornet.com/articles/suicide-adult-film-star-dahlia-sky-breast-cancer-mental-health-resources/

boobpedia.com

babepedia.com

xxxbios.com

The Notorious B.I.G. - Juicy

Music Appreciation

The 1994 debut album "Ready to Die" by The Notorious B.I.G. features its standout single, "Juicy," which encapsulates Christopher Wallace's journey from a challenging upbringing to rap stardom. Set to an infectious, upbeat melody that samples Mtume's 1983 track "Juicy Fruit," the song's lyrics chronicle Biggie's transformation from rags to riches.

Directed by Sean 'Diddy' Combs, the music video serves as a visual companion to the song's narrative. It elegantly weaves together scenes from Biggie's life story, depicting his upbringing in Brooklyn, his struggles with poverty, brushes with criminality, and his eventual ascent to success as a rapper. The video effectively captures the essence of Biggie's persona, highlighting his magnetic charisma and genuine appeal that resonated deeply with his fan base. In essence, "Juicy" and its accompanying music video provide an immersive glimpse into the multifaceted personality and remarkable journey of The Notorious B.I.G.

via The Notorious B.I.G.

Source: 

Wikipedia

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8426676/

"Men are Still Wrong" by Cynthia Heimel

Literature Appreciation

My girlfriend and I dressed in pink as we joined the throngs of people at the local theatre to watch Greta Gerwig's Barbie. The film, a box-office smash, evoked nostalgia as it reminded me of my younger years while also highlighting feminism front and center. In Barbieland, a women-centered utopia, Ken dolls are rendered useless until Ken witnesses the real world's patriarchy and returns with that ideology to rename Barbieland as Kenland.

Coincidentally, I stumbled upon an article by Cynthia Heimel from the August 1994 issue of Playboy titled "Wrong Again." In her column, she addresses the ongoing tension between feminism and the male backlash against it. She observes the ever-shifting nature of the backlash from feminism to a male backlash against feminism, followed by a feminist backlash against the male backlash, and now a perceived male backlash against the feminist backlash. Cynthia expresses frustration with this cycle of blame and whining, which only fuels the frustration between the sexes and perpetuates conflict.

Cynthia highlights a new trend in feminism, an anti-victim feminism, which rejects victimhood and emphasizes personal empowerment and action. While she acknowledges that there are genuine victims among both men and women, she criticizes the blame game and suggests focusing on punishing whiners rather than actual victims. She urges praise for those who rise above abuse and oppression and fight back against their oppressors.

She points out the irony that men and women essentially desire the same thing: more equal and modern relationships free from traditional gender roles, "There is a fabulous irony in this battle between men and women. We are on the same side." Both genders face their own grievances—men feeling used and financially drained, and women facing discrimination, inequality, and objectification.

For progress to happen, Cynthia argues that both men and women must make sacrifices. Men should let go of control in relationships and workplaces to allow women to become equal partners. Women, on the other hand, should stop manipulating men and demanding material things, while also taking on equal responsibilities and opportunities.

"We all want it both ways. It won't work. We must make sacrifices... We must be prepared to shoulder equal burdens or sacrifice all rights to equal opportunities. If a mate demands that we impersonate an inflatable doll, just say "Get a grip."

Fast-forwarding thirty years, it is evident that we are still grappling with feminism and equality of the sexes. Sadly, some individuals resort to extreme actions, like a political pundit who, as a grown man, purchased Barbie dolls just to set them on fire in a misguided attempt to criticize the movie as being "woke."

Source:

Cynthia Heimel. Wrong Again. Playboy Magazine. August 1994. vol. 41, no. 8

https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/movies/internet-roasting-ben-shapiro-hate-watching-barbie-dressed-ken-rcna95843

Yoga: YOGATX - Yoga For Neck and Shoulder Pain

 via YOGATX

Dance: Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice - Barbie World

Choreographers: Matt Steffanina & Dytto Choreography

via Matt Steffanina

Cosplay is an Art: ComicPalooza 2023 (Houston)

 

via Gabes Studio

Gin Blossoms - Found Out About You

Music Appreciation

During the 1990s, the Gin Blossoms were the rock band that had that catchy melodic alternative rock sound. One of their most popular songs, Found Out About You, which was a track from their 1992 album "New Miserable Experience," became a classic and beloved by fans.  

Written by former lead guitarist Doug Hopkins, Found Out About You tells the story of a person who has just discovered that their love has been unfaithful. The singer describes the shock and pain of the discovery, but the unwavering love and longing to go back to how it was before. Although somber, the story is told with an upbeat catchy guitar riff and sing-along chorus. 

Directed by David Hogan, the music video captures the mood and tone of the song. It features the band performing the song in a dimly-lit room and images of a woman interspersed throughout. 

Sources:

Wikipedia

David Buttolph

Music Appreciation

David Buttolph, born on August 3, 1902, in New York City, was drawn to the piano from a young age, igniting a deep passion for music within him. He pursued his studies at the Institute of Musical Arts in New York City, now known as The Juilliard School of Music, where he perfected his skills as an accompanist and songwriter.

Fascinated by the world of opera, Buttolph ventured to the Akademie für Musik in Vienna, which is currently known as the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna. During his time in Austria, he immersed himself in opera studies under the guidance of skilled maestros. Additionally, he delighted audiences with his jazz performances at various nightclubs, showcasing his versatile musical talents.

Upon returning to the United States in 1927, Buttolph embarked on a career as an arranger and conductor, collaborating with singing groups and orchestras. Eventually, he made his way to Los Angeles, where he became a studio composer, working alongside the renowned movie composer Alfred Newman.

While Buttolph contributed to numerous film scores throughout his career, it was his work as an arranger on Alfred Newman's score for The Mark of Zorro (1940) that garnered significant acclaim and recognition.

His experience as a conductor provided him with valuable insights into orchestration and a profound understanding of music's ability to enhance visual storytelling. These insights led him to compose scores for television during the mid-1950s. He became widely recognized for his versatility in covering various genres, ranging from musicals to horror to westerns. One of his most iconic works was the theme for the TV western Maverick, starring James Garner.

Buttolph's musical style was characterized by its melodious depth, thematic complexity, and masterful orchestration. He possessed a unique talent for crafting melodies that resonated with both tenderness and strength, evoking a wide array of emotions. His unwavering dedication to storytelling through music, combined with his exceptional abilities, has rightfully secured his place among the great film composers of all time.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://prod-www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/26333%7C36220/David-Buttolph

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005987/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm

https://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/n85378895.html

https://dokumen.pub/the-encyclopedia-of-film-composers-1442245492-9781442245495.html

No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service

What prevents our society from adopting a more widespread acceptance of topless beaches, as seen in other countries where such beach spots are more common? A prime example can be found in the Caribbean, where I encountered an island, St. Martin, boasting the renowned "clothing optional" Orient Beach.

While certain nations have readily embraced progressive viewpoints on nudity and public self-expression, the United States has generally adhered to a more conservative stance on this matter. The few topless beaches that do exist within the U.S. are typically situated in regions that exhibit a more liberal and open-minded attitude towards nudity, valuing personal freedoms and the individual rights enshrined in our Constitution.

Rip Matteson, PLAYBOY (August 1994)

"Viva Milan"

The August 1994 issue of Playboy is one I remember for its pictorials of Carol Shaya, Playmate Maria Checa, and playmates with other international models in Milan. 

"VIVA MILAN," the title read with photos of four beautiful international models.

The write-up explains, "We enlisted a team of alluring international models -- as well as Playmates Samantha  Dorman and Becky DelosSantos -- and jetted off to the city of ancient palazzi and bustling avenues."

The pictorial by photographer Stephen Wayda is lovely. With each turning page, I fell in love with a new model: Nicole Douglas, April Christenson, Alessandra Pertile, Danelle Folta, Donna Perry, Lorenza Pierucci, Nicole Rhodes, Helene Rollingswier, Becky DelosSantos, Erin Hopkins, and Samantha Dorman.

Lorenza Pierucci

Alessandra Pertile

Helene Rollingswier

Alessandra Pertile and Lorenza Pierucci

Sources:

VIVA MILAN. Playboy. Vol. 41. No. 8. Pg. 126.

https://www.iplayboy.com/issue/19940801