June 5, 2006
By Jawn Murray, AOL Black Voices Columnist
Inside the Buzz
Jeffrey Mayer, WireImage
Raz-B has shared with the Buzz that it was his relationship with God in the post-B2K days that helped him cope, and that's why he's readying an inspirational album called 'Raz-B: Revealer of Truths.'


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Straight Talk


Life after the boy band B2K hasn't been a cakewalk for Raz-B (nee DeMario Thornton). Things fell apart in Dec. 2003 when Raz-B and group members J-Boog (Jarrell Houston) and Lil' Fizz (Dreux Frederick) parted ways with B2K's manager Chris Stokes and lead singer Omarion (Omari Grandberry). The guys entered into a business partnership agreement with Las Vegas- based CMX Entertainment in Jan. 2004, but that union was short-lived as well.


Two years on, Omarion has released a platinum-selling solo record, and the other three guys are still trying to come into their own. Raz-B, who turns 21 on June 13, said despite the challenges he faced during the ordeal, he wouldn't change a thing.


"Transition is life. It was rough and shaky but it was worth it. I wouldn't trade it for a zillion dollars," he said. "It taught me about working with people, taught me how important love was and loyal and how money is and all of that stuff. But I knew the Lord wanted me to walk through that transition to build my character and what not. Now I'm even stronger."


Raz shared that it was his relationship with God that helped him cope during the tumultuous times, and that's why he's readying an inspirational album called 'Raz-B: Revealer of Truths.' The CD is being produced by Michael Winans Jr. and executive produced by Michael Winans Sr., of the legendary group The Winans.


"This album is about me. I want to stand for truth, and I want to seek the truth out for myself," he said. The project is an independent venture through M & R Productions. However, Raz said that several major labels have expressed interest.


In addition to promoting two DVDs that document his post-B2K transition-'Prince & The Wiseman Present: Life After B2K' and 'B2K Unchained'-Raz will star in a forthcoming episode of 'Noah's Arc.' The show airs on the Logo network, the cable channel geared toward the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.


The singer couldn't disclose too much about his role, however he did confess that "there wasn't any kissing or anything of that nature." He plays a gay character in the episode, which centers on HIV and AIDS. "It was a very, very positive role. It was to raise the awareness for kids with HIV and the kids who have AIDS. That's our demographic. Fifty percent of those people are our people. I felt like it was a mature decision for me to play a gay character," he said.

His performance last July at the Oakland International Black Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Film Festival & Pride Celebration caused speculation about Raz's sexuality. Was he concerned that his role on 'Noah's Arc' would further fuel the rumors? "The rumors and stuff like that, I don't really care. I don't let anything kind of really hold me back. I believe in trying to improve and trying to make a change and some people will look over and see that was a very mature decision, you know, to try and inspire the youth to think different. I kind of got tired of being like, if I got a gay friend I can't hang around them without someone thinking that we're dating or we're doing something together. I just want to let people know that I am a supporter, and I'm a strong supporter and here's the way I'm a show you. I'm not here to judge," he added.


'Noah's Arc' isn't his only acting role either. He'll star in two upcoming movies - an indie film called 'Pieces of a Dream' and 'Rhythm of the Night' alongside Ginuwine, Vida Guerra and former band mate J-Boog. As for J-Boog and the rest of the B2K gang, Raz said they have spoken.


"We've talked," he said. "I actually just invited them to come to my benefit concert. I am hosting a benefit concert at the Apollo Theater in October. It's to raise money for the Crystal Life Youth Academy, which is for special children who have been molested and abused and been in foster homes and things like that. My goal is to speak for the children who can't speak for themselves. There was a time in my life when I was a special child. Kids are our future and there are a lot of kids out there who are being misled."

isthisdadawn said:

That would be HOT! And I agree with you, he needs to just come out but it's all good. I'll be here and ready when he is.
[Edited 6/7/06 12:07pm]

purplecam said:

LOL,

gay or not homie gets much props 4 this

His performance last July at the Oakland International Black Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Film Festival & Pride Celebration caused speculation about Raz's sexuality. Was he concerned that his role on 'Noah's Arc' would further fuel the rumors? "The rumors and stuff like that, I don't really care. I don't let anything kind of really hold me back. I believe in trying to improve and trying to make a change and some people will look over and see that was a very mature decision, you know, to try and inspire the youth to think different. I kind of got tired of being like, if I got a gay friend I can't hang around them without someone thinking that we're dating or we're doing something together. I just want to let people know that I am a supporter, and I'm a strong supporter and here's the way I'm a show you. I'm not here to judge," he added.

Does someone have that picture of B2K when they stripped down to their boxer briefs? This brotha needs to see that picture again!

Moonwalkbjrain said:

Totally agree with you on that.