Post by tempfan on Aug 31, 2006 18:20:48 GMT -5
BERNARD GIBSON INTERVIEW:
TALKS ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED WITH THE TEMPTATIONS REVIEW
Recently Key of Gee E-Zine conducted an exclusive and explosive interview with Bernard Gibson who spent the last 13 years with Dennis Edwards and the Temptations Review. He was recently fired and replaced by two-time ex-Tempation Ali Woodson. Here's Bernard's side of the story as he talks about what happened that caused his departure from the group.
KEY OF GEE: "I heard rumors that your attitude and ego were getting the best of you. My sources say you were fired for the good of the group. What happened?"
GIBSON: "Frankly I don't know. We finished a Gospel CD in March called Look What The Lord Has Done. I was listening to a copy of the CD when I heard something in the mix that alarmed me. I called the offices of Hi-C Management and Productions, Inc to let them know what I heard. Instead of talking about the music, Ben Crosby, Dennis' manager said, ""I heard you want to be out of the group."" I said "What you talking about? Whoever told you that is a lie! Tell them to say it in front of my face." Ben said, "I'll call you back in 48 hours."
Bernard tried to reach Dennis Edwards by phone, but he wouldn't accept the call. He talked to Dennis the next day. Dennis said he didn't have any say over what management did. Bernard could not understand why Dennis was acting like this because Dennis personally hired him. Dennis said, "I'll talk to Ben and get back with you". Bernard said, "Dennis never called back and he was fired."
KEY OF GEE: "You didn't see it coming?"
GIBSON: "Not really. There have been lies told. That evening I heard from Bo Henderson who used to be with Otis' Temptations. He said he heard that this thing was going to happen seven months ago."
KEY OF GEE: "Did you have a contract?"
GIBSON: "No. At one point we had a signed contract with Hi-C Management. When it expired we did not sign another. We were just a 'Work for hire'. We were lied to a lot. We were living off of Dennis' popularity. I always tried to do my best. If we're singing a song and the audience really reacts to you, on the next show, Dennis would take the song out".
KEY OF GEE: "Were you paid well"?
GIBSON: "No! We were not. I have never liked being pimped. I hate it when someone is always frowning and cussing. When you look at the workload and how many gigs we did, it's sad. When you brought up the subject of money, then you were in danger of losing your job. This is the dumbest thing. If it is about the money, then why would they hire somebody that they have to pay five times what I was making? Ali Woodson replaced me and he sure won't accept what they were paying me."
KEY OF GEE: "Come on Bernard, I was the manager of the Five Special before you guys went with Dennis. Sometimes managers are pimps. We have to exploit or pimp your talent so you can get paid. I have seen your tantrums when you can't get your way."
GIBSON: "I'm telling you Gee, I didn't see this coming."
KEY OF GEE: "I love me some Ali Woodson. He and Dennis have two very strong personalities. Do you think this paring will last?"
GIBSON: "We worked with Ali in Africa. We all sang together - the 6 of us on stage. It worked then and it could still have worked. I just wish I could have kept my job."
KEY OF GEE: "Do you think you were fired because they had to make room for Ali? Or do you think you were fired because you asked questions?"
GIBSON: "Every so often the subject of money came up but it was done collectively. The other guys were concerned about what they were paid also. Most of the problem is with the management, Ben Crosby. He wanted you to kiss his ass".
KEY OF GEE: "Now we're getting to it."
GIBSON: "He would curse and call you names. I'm a grown man. Sometimes you get tired of that mess. We had words a couple of times but I didn't want to leave the group."
KEY OF GEE: "What are you going to do now?
GIBSON: "I am a singer. I'm staying true to what I do. I'm in talks with folks like the Philly Intruders and a few others. I'm keeping my options open. I am working on a solo project as well. Gee, you can let your readers know I'm available. "
KEY OF GEE: Sounds to me like the little boys haven't learned to play nice!
Bernard is a great performer. I wish him well. If there is anyone out there who needs a good singer, holla back. You Know "It's Hard Out Here For A Pimp!" - I can still hook a brother up.
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