Saturday, December 09, 2023

Amazon Cuts Ties with Riverside’s Cheech Museum

 Amazon has reportedly ended its financial support for the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture in Riverside, California, after the institution included an artwork that the company deemed critical of its business strategy in Southern California’s Inland Empire.

The news was first reported earlier this week by the Los Angeles Times. Just days after the article was published, Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder and executive chairman, who has recently become a high-profile collector, was spotted at Art Basel Miami Beach, one of the country’s leading art fairs.

Amazon’s decision to cut ties with the Cheech was revealed in a leaked document laying out several of the company’s business and PR strategies for 2024. It was posted to X (formerly Twitter) by Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, the chief officer of the California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO and a former California State assemblyperson.

The L.A. Times was able to independently verify the authenticity of the document, and an Amazon spokesperson did not dispute its veracity to the paper.

Amazon spokesperson Jennifer Flagg told ARTnews that the L.A. Times article was a “blatant mischaracterization of Amazon’s work, and in fact, Amazon is proud to be engaged philanthropically in communities across the country.”

The document reads, “We will not continue to support organizations that did not result in measurable positive impact in our brand and reputation. Additionally, we will not fund organizations that have positioned themselves antagonistically toward our interests.”

It cites the Cheech as one example because a 2023 exhibition, titled “Life Logistics,” included triptych of screenprints by Toni Sanchez, a student at the University of California, Riverside studying political science. The three prints show an Amazon warehouse with flames beneath it; surrounding the warehouse are block letters reading “BURN THEM ALL DOWN.”

In an email to the Inland Empire–based newspaper the Press-Enterprise, Sanchez said that the work “stems from the fact that we are tired of not being heard from city officials who vote on and approve warehouse building. We need them to listen to us community members when we tell them what we want from them and how we want the land to be used, whether that’s for community parks, community gardens, anything but warehouses.”

Amazon had given a $5,000 donation to the Cheech in both 2022 and 2023. But going forward, the company said it would no longer be providing anymore money because “the artist then gave an interview expressing hostility towards Amazon.”

The Cheech opened in 2022 after the Riverside Art Museum, which manages the center, secured a gift from actor and ARTnews Top 200 Collector Cheech Marin from his collection of Chicanx art, which has long been considered the largest in the world. It has been popular with the local community and tourists, and well-received by critics. The museum said that it had a goal of getting 100,000 visitors in its first year, and that it had surpassed that goal by 30 percent.

The Cheech also had major support from the City of Riverside, which has agreed to give $800,000 annually to the institution for its budget for its first decade of existence. The city council also helped secure $10.7 million from the California State budget that went toward retrofitting the historic building in which the Cheech is located. At the time, Marin told ARTnews of Riverside’s potential, “I think it’ll be the next big art town. It’s set up to do that.”

Riverside Art Museum director Drew Oberjuerge confirmed to the L.A. Times the amount of the donations from Amazon, but said she first learned about Amazon ending its donations from the leaked document.

“Neither payment was designated for an exhibition, and the company has not communicated any questions or concerns about an artwork or requested the return of its donations,” Oberjuerge said in a statement. “We believe in supporting artists and curators who challenge, surprise, delight, annoy and anger. It’s through this dialogue we better understand our shared experience.”

Speaking to ARTnews in 2021, ahead of the center’s opening, the Cheech’s artistic director María Esther Fernández said, “When you think about Chicanx art, it comes from a political movement that was concerned with social justice and issues of equity,” she said. “You can’t have a center that’s focused on this kind of art without thinking locally. It’s important to understand its roots in community.”

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Cheech says there are Two Cheech and Chong Films in the Works

 During his interview with VLADTV, Cheech Marin said there are two Cheech and Chong films in the works that were held up by the writer's strike.

There are no working titles.  Cheech says they wait until after the film is finished before naming them.

Production will continue in the new year (2024).

Note to readers:  They have said this before.  And I hope they aren't talking about the biopic created by Chong's daughters (which is a rip-off of Josh Gilbert's a/k/a Tommy Chong).


Sunday, November 26, 2023

VLADTV Interviews Cheech Marin

 VLADTV sat down with Richard Cheech Marin for a rare long form interview.  It's interesting and well worth the watch.

He talks about the breakup with Tommy and so on.  No mention of Cheech's alleged marital issues.

In episode 13, Cheech says he has no recollection of 2013's Cheech and Chong's Animated Movie.  We don't know if he's being sarcastic because the film was horrible.  Cheech and Tommy each got paid $100k.  Tommy was quoted as saying it's the biggest check he and Cheech ever received.  People like the legendary Johnny Fratto bankrolled this disaster.  I believe it was created by friends of Chong's son, Paris.


Thursday, October 26, 2023

Cheech & Chong Are Sparking Up Massachusetts With Two Exciting New Partnerships

Their New Cannabis Dispensaries & Non-Alcoholic Hemp THC Seltzers are infusing fun for cannabis consumers throughout the Bay State while promoting safe, responsible access.

BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Iconic duo Cheech & ChongTM are headed to Massachusetts for two groundbreaking partnerships that will leave Massachusetts buzzing. The team, widely known for their contribution to cannabis through pop-culture classics like UP IN SMOKE, are on a mission to bring the joy and fun back to cannabis while ensuring safe, responsible access.


Cheech & Chong's Dispensorias Now Open in Massachusetts

Cheech & Chong debut new line of cannabis dispensaries in the Bay State

Cheech & Chong Join Forces with Toroverde for the debut of Cheech & Chong's DispensoriasTM

Cheech & Chong have always been about more than just cannabis; they're about celebrating the vibrant culture and sense of community that surrounds it. That's why they've partnered with dispensary operator Toroverde to launch Cheech & Chong's Dispensorias, a line of cannabis dispensaries in Massachusetts.


Cheech & Chong's Dispensorias are not just places to purchase cannabis; they're a destination for laughter, connection, and unforgettable experiences. Cheech Marin, one half of the legendary duo, put it best, saying, "Legalization is great, but the industry lost some of the fun along the way. We wanted to bring back the fun and excitement and laughter with the Dispensorias. We wanted to do it different than anyone else, almost like another 'cannabis revolution.' And we figured, what better place to start a revolution than Massachusetts?"

With three Dispensorias opening in November, including locations in Whately, Greenfield, and Northampton, residents across Massachusetts will now have a place to purchase premium cannabis at affordable prices, while enjoying the unique world of Cheech & Chong.

Jonathan Gonzalez, Market Manager, Toroverde, said, "We've taken all the best parts of a dispensary: safe, legal access to premium cannabis, expert budtenders, and top-notch customer service, and tossed all the boring, corporate parts. When you apply that 'Cheech & Chong' feel to a dispensary, all of a sudden, everyone is just having a lot more fun."

Jonathan Black, CEO of Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company, stated, "We've worked hard to ensure that our Dispensorias are designed to break down barriers, foster a sense of community, and give every cannabis consumer, regardless of experience level, access to a safe, responsible, and reputable cannabis experience, boosted by the connection of two legends in the space."

Cheech & Chong's High and Dry Hemp-Derived THC Seltzers Now Available in Stores Across Boston

Cheech & Chong's takeover in Massachusetts doesn't stop at Dispensorias. In partnership with Atlantic Beverage Distributors, the duo is bringing their High & DryTM Hemp THC seltzers to liquor stores throughout the greater Boston area.

Tommy Chong explains, "We're all about makin' it simple for folks to get what they need, whether you're in a dispensary or in the liquor store. It's all about takin' care of the community."

These seltzers are the newest way for Cheech & Chong to achieve their mission of providing responsible access to the plant for all adults. With zero alcohol, zero calories, and 5 MGs of hemp-derived THC, they're perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a "buzz" without the hangover.

Brandon Harshbarger, President, Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company, revealed, "This initial roll-out in Boston has been incredible. And that all comes down to the team at Atlantic Beverage. They are the 'Kings of Craft Beer in Boston' for a reason. Looking at their history in the adult beverage space, there was no better partner. We're proud to have them on board the Cheech & Chong team."

To celebrate, Cheech & Chong are bringing the party to the Bay State. They'll be toasting to the new beverages at the Liquor Junction in Reading, Massachusetts, on Nov. 10.

Join the beverage revolution and meet the iconic duo at 1 General Way, Reading, MA 01867, from 5-7 p.m. It's the "Boston T-HC party" you won't want to miss!

But that's not all! Cheech & Chong will also be throwing a Dispensoria Grand Opening Party on Nov. 11. Join the guys in person at 424 State Rd, Whately, MA 01373 from 2-6 p.m. with a Cheech & Chong Meet and Greet from 3-5 p.m.

While there will be no cannabis consumption on site, fans 21 years of age and older are encouraged to come down and enjoy the experience to see the Dispensoria difference for themselves. This is not just a party; it's a chance to hang out with Cheech and Tommy and christen the Dispensorias in true Cheech & Chong style.

For all the details about the "Boston T-HC Party at Liquor Junction" and Cheech & Chong's High and Dry Seltzers, visit HERE.

To join us on Nov. 11 at the Dispensoria Grand Opening Party in Whately, visit HERE.

About Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company

Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company is a leading cannabis lifestyle brand built on over 50 years of advocacy, entertainment, and education. Its mission is to provide high-quality, safe, and reliable cannabis products to consumers while promoting the benefits and positive impact of the plant. At Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company, cannabis is more than just a plant - it is a lifestyle that brings people together and promotes well-being. The company's history and legacy are rooted in humor and activism, and it continues to honor those values today.

The marks Cheech & Chong, Dispensoria, and High & Dry are trademarks of, or licensed to, Cheech and Chong's Global Holding Company.

Monday, October 23, 2023

Tommy Chong says Howard Stern Won't have him on Anymore

 

Tommy Chong just posted his latest podcast episode. He says Cheech and Chong inspired Stern. Stern won't have him on anymore. Last time he was on was when Cheech and Chong reunited. His son, Paris, says that Stern only has the elite on now because he's too cool for school. 

Tommy says he understands.  We're old news and Howard Stern wants to hang out with the young ones.

 

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Update: Really? The 420 Expo in New Jersey is Charging A LOT to Smoke with Cheech

 After failing to sell tickets to the VIP experience with Cheech Marin, the 420 Expo started selling tickets via ticketmaster (routes to ticketweb).

It costs a whopping $1000.  How much are they paying Cheech?  Horrendous.

The previous marijuana convention at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center in Edison, New Jersey was a ghost town.  We walked through there.  It was all pot and porn site booths.  Special guest was Tommy Chong.

This year, it's Cheech Marin.  What does your ticket include?

20 minute smoke and hang session 
Limited to a very intimate number of guests each day/session 
BYOC (bring your own cannabis) 
Up to 2 personal items signed VIP professional photo of you and host Signed stock photo of celebrity host Free 420 
Expo goodie bag featuring Wakit Grinder ($65 value), 
Chaturbate gift card ($50 value) & more 
Please Note: This package does not include tickets to the expo. Admission tickets must be purchased separately and are required to participate in all Photo Ops and Meet & Greets Please report 15 minutes prior to session time to the Will Call desk in the lobby. No guarantees of signing of photos at booth.

$1k to smoke with a has been comedian with a questionable background.





Update Sept 30
Not much of a line for celeb signings at the 420 Expo.


Monday, August 14, 2023

420 Expo, the BYOC (Bring Your Own Cannabis) Celebration, Returns to NJ September 29–October 1 with Special Guest Host, Cheech Marin

Edison, NJ, August 14, 2023 – After becoming the largest BYOC (Bring Your Own Cannabis) consumer convention in the Northeast last year, 420 Expo is set to return to the Garden State, September 29 through October 1, at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center in Edison, NJ. This year’s event will be guest hosted by legendary actor, cannabis activist and art collector, Cheech Marin, and is expected to draw an even bigger crowd than last year’s 17,000+ attendees. Details and tickets are available on the event’s website, 420Expo.com, and attendees must be 21+.

420 Expo, sponsored by Wakit Grinders, is a three-day celebration of the legal marijuana lifestyle. Visitors will enjoy a stigma-free vibe with live entertainment, celebrity appearances, cool vendors, and educational seminars inside the Expo Center. Outside, a large outdoor smoking section and a wide variety of food trucks will ensure attendees can get in a great mood while eating great food. (THC products will not be sold at 420 Expo, however attendees may bring the legal limit for personal use specified by the state of NJ.) 

“Despite last year’s legalization of adult use (recreational) marijuana legalization in NJ, there still isn’t enough tolerance,” said Dan Davis, co-founder of 420 Expo. “A primary goal of 420 Expo is to remove the stigma surrounding cannabis, and it’s a bonus that we get to have a blast achieving that goal.”  

“I am excited to be the guest of honor for this year’s 420 Expo, and to celebrate legal marijuana in New Jersey,” said cannabis icon Cheech Marin. “It’s definitely going to be a heck of a party and I’m stoked to smoke and to be a part of it.”

Cheech headlines a list of cannabis-friendly celebs scheduled to appear at 420 Expo, who will be available for photos, autographs, and meet and greets. Some will even be available for “Smoking Sessions” and other VIP experiences. 

420 Expo’s 2023 three-day BYOC canna-fest will include:

  • VIP Meet & Greets with the legendary Cheech Marin, Friday and Saturday
  • Guest appearances by other cannabis-related celebrities, including Jason Gann (“Wilfred”), Jason London (Dazed and Confused), Jeremy London (Mallrats, “7th Heaven”), Nicholas Turturro (“NYPD Blue,” The Longest Yard, I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry), Rachel True (Half Baked, The Craft), Shawna Waldron (Little Giants, The American President, “Ladies Man”), Keith Coogan (Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead, Toy Soldiers, Adventures in Babysitting), professional wrestling legends The Sandman and Blue Meanie, activist and champion race car driver, Randy Lanier, and Troma Films characters “The Toxic Avenger” and “Sgt. Kabukiman,” among others
  • 420 Expo’s Entertainment Stage featuring live performances, interactive events and more – plus live music and DJs throughout the event
  • Over 100 vendors from the cannabis world and beyond (no on-site THC sales)
  • 20+ seminars and panels appealing to both the casual and experienced cannabis enthusiasts
  • Outdoor smoking section (BYOC) with plenty of food trucks, music, and games 
  • Glass blowing, axe throwing, iconic cars from movies, product demonstrations, gaming areas and more
  • Rolling Contest and other games and competitions
  • Extreme people watching!

“We are honored to welcome the one-and-only cannabis legend Cheech Marin to our second annual 420 Expo, and we invite all adults 21 and older, from the curious to connoisseurs, to come out and shine a light on the growing cannabis community,” said J. Handy, co-founder of 420 Expo. “We were blown away by the sheer number of attendees last year, so we’re raising the bar even higher. This year, visitors can expect an even stronger lineup of live entertainment, seriously cool vendors, more celebrity guests, and a bunch more surprises.”

420 Expo at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center in Edison, NJ will be open to the public:

  • Friday, September 29, 5pm – 11pm (ribbon cutting by Cheech Marin)
  • Saturday, September 30, 12pm – 9pm
  • Sunday, October 1, 12pm – 6pm

To learn more about the 420 Expo performance line-up and purchase advance tickets to this 21+ event, go to 420Expo.com

Monday, July 31, 2023

RIP Paul Reubens aka Pee Wee Herman

 Before he was the lovable host of the children's show, Pee Wee's Playhouse, Paul Reuben was a really great and raunchy comedian.  One of his first films was Cheech and Chong's Next Movie. where he plays an annoyed hotel clerk.

In addition, Reubens played a mental patient in Cheech and Chong's Nice Dreams.."HAMBURGER!!!!"

Cheech Marin remembered Reubens as “one of the funniest actors I knew, and a great friend.” Marin and his partner Tommy Chong gave Reubens/Pee-wee an early platform in the Eighties, enlisting him for parts in two of their movies. “He was an indelible character in our movies, and will be so missed,” Marin said.


 
 

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Richard "Cheech Marin" Turns 77

Comedian/actor/art aficionado, Richard 'Cheech' Marin, turns 77 today. He was born July 13th, 1946 in Los Angeles California.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Cheech Marin to be on Eric Andre Show

 Cheech Marin will be on this season of the Eric Andre Show (debuts June 4 on Adult Swim).  

Previously announced guest stars include Natasha Lyonne, Jaleel White, Blac Chyna, Jon Hamm, Raven-Symoné, Diplo, Daymond John, Meagan Good, Rico Nasty, Waka Flocka Flame, Tinashe, Cypress Hill, and Lil Yachty. 


Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Happy Birthday! Tommy Chong is 85 Years Old

  The dopemaster, Tommy Chong, turned 85 today. Tommy was born May 24th, 1938 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Monday, April 24, 2023

Cheech Marin Joins ‘Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day’ Reimagination In Recasting

  Cheech Marin (Shotgun Wedding, Champions) has been cast in the Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day reimagination following George Lopez’s exit due to a scheduling conflict.

He will portray Gil, the patriarch of the Garcia family and a comedic character who rides a motorcycle.

From writer Matt Lopez and director Marvin Lemus, Alexander tells the story of 11-year-old Alexander Garcia (Thom Nemer) who thinks he has the worst luck in the world. When his family sets off on a road trip to California, he’s pretty sure disaster awaits at every corner. His anxiety only increases when a family secret is revealed.

The film also stars Eva Longoria, Jesse Garcia, Paulina Chávez and Rose Portillo. Production is currently underway in New Mexico.

Alexander 2, a new take on Judith Viorst’s book after a 2014 movie starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner, is produced by Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, and Lisa Henson.

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Bent Paddle teams with Cheech and Chong to sell THC seltzer

 Bent Paddle Brewing Co. is collaborating with old-school stoner duo Cheech and Chong on a new line of hemp-derived THC drinks.

The Duluth brewery debuted the new Cheech and Chong beverages within its taproom on Thursday — 4/20, the unofficial holiday for cannabis enthusiasts. It'll also be distributed to retailers and dispensaries.

Taking place during the launch event are a screening of Cheech and Chong's cult classic "Up in Smoke," plus a never-before-seen video of the comedians trying their new drinks, a munchies bar by Happy Hippy Tacos and tunes from DJ Stephanie Michelle.

Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong recently united their individual, existing cannabis brands under one banner, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co., according to a profile on the pair by Leaf Magazines.

"We're thrilled to partner with Bent Paddle Brewing Co. to bring our Minnesota fans a new way to enjoy cannabis," Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. CEO Jonathan Black said in a statement. "These beverages are the perfect way to celebrate 4/20 and enjoy a relaxing, delicious drink."

The new Cheech and Chong beverages contain 5 milligrams of hemp-derived THC and come in four flavors: Raspberry Highball, Magic Mule, Citrus Sunrise, and Grapefruit Twist.

"We're honored to work with Cheech and Chong on this co-manufacturing project," said Bent Paddle Brewing Co. co-founder Laura Mullen. "The flavors Cheech & Chong selected are out of this world and we are very proud to be part of their process.”

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Bill Gates Visits "The Cheech" In Riverside For A Tour Of The Museum

 Wow, something we never expected to see.

The devil himself, Bill Gates, toured The Cheech with the Cheech Marin.

With Cheech Marin as his guide, Bill Gates tours The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of Riverside Art Museum on Monday, April 17, 2023 to view the collection and learn about the museum's work in the community. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has invested in the Inland Empire by supporting local and state advocacy that advances educational equity and economic mobility.




Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Cheech and Chong Guest on Muppets Mayhem

 Disney+ has revealed the official trailer and key art for the new Original series The Muppets Mayhem, starring Lilly Singh, Tahj Mowry, Saara Chaudry and The Electric Mayhem Band.

The musical comedy series premieres with all episodes on May 10, only on Disney+. You can watch the new trailer using the player below and you’ll find the key art underneath.

The Muppets Mayhem follows The Electric Mayhem Band — Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone and Lips on trumpet — on an epic, music-filled journey to record their first-ever studio album.

With the help of a driven young music executive, Nora Singh (Singh), the old-school Muppet band comes face-to-face with the current-day music scene as they try to finally record their first studio album.

Joining the previously announced recurring guest star Anders Holm and The Electric Mayhem Band on their journey is an exciting roster of guest talent, including:

Paula Abdul

Steve Aoki

David Bizarro

Rachel Bloom

Nicole Byer

Sofia Carson

Charlamagne Tha God

Tommy Chong

Billy Corgan

Stephanie D’Abruzzo

deadmau5

Desiigner

Colton Dunn

Morgan Freeman

Susanna Hoffs

James Hong

Jennifer Irwin

Karamo

Kesha

Tommy Lee

Lil Nas X

Riki Lindhome

Cheech Marin

Ziggy Marley

Jack McBrayer

Arden Myrin

Nico Santos

Kristen Schaal

Ben Schwartz

Ryan Seacrest

Kevin Smith

Chris Stapleton

Danny Trejo

Joe Lo Truglio

“Weird Al” Yankovic

Cedric Yarbrough

Zedd

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Cheech and Chong Biopic in the Works With Hidden Pictures

 It's in The Hollywood Reporter today so I guess it's happening.

Todd Lieberman’s Hidden Pictures is partnering with Marin and Chong, Underground and Five All in the Fifth Entertainment on a feature biopic about the comedy duo.

Kristian Mercado, who most recently made his feature debut with the 2023 South by Southwest entry If You Were Last, will direct from a screenplay by Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan.

“We are excited to show the world how two dudes from completely different backgrounds got together, changed comedy and made cannabis mainstream!” said Marin and Chong.

The documentary a/k/a Tommy Chong did a great job detailing Cheech and Chong's history.  We recommend checking that out first.

Saturday, March 18, 2023

Cheech and Chong Working on Three Films

At this week's SXSW festival, Cheech revealed there are three Cheech and Chong films in the works.

1. Documentary about the comedy team

2. Biopic about their early years that would star other actors as them

3. Straight-up Cheech & Chong comedy about the two characters as old men

Our take on this...

1. The doc was done by Chong's daughters after the success of Josh Gilbert's a/k/a Tommy Chong.

2. Biopic will never get made.

3. No major film studio will put up the money for a Cheech and Chong film.

Friday, March 17, 2023

Tommy Chong Hosting Denver's Mile High 420 Fest

 The Mile High 420 Festival has booked the biggest boss of them all, with Rick Ross set to headline the annual cannabis celebration in Denver's Civic Center Park, according to the event's new organizer.

Waka Flocka Flame, The Alchemist, Fivio Foreign and Kaash Paige round out the headlining musical acts, while Tommy Chong will be the official host of the 4/20 fest, set for Thursday, April 20. More acts will be announced soon, the event website notes.

As in previous years, the 4/20 fest will be free, but this marks the first year that there will be an age limit: After receiving requests from parents and youth prevention groups last year, the organizers have ruled that no one under 21 will be allowed in.

For nearly three decades now, a marijuana celebration has taken place at Civic Center on April 20 (or on the weekend a few days before or after that date) to mark 4/20, an unofficial cannabis holiday now observed around the world. The event transitioned to a free concert and vendor space in the late 2000s, with a handful of planners and companies organizing the festival over the years — but unsanctioned marijuana use has always been a hallmark.

Wednesday, March 08, 2023

Cheech and Chong Working on Two Films

Cheech Marin tells Coming Soon that Cheech and Chong are working on two films. The first is a documentary created by Chong's children.  This will be released soon.

He didn't give details on the second.

However, the documentary was created after the success of Josh Gilbert's A/K/A Tommy Chong doc on Chong.

In this interview, oddly, Cheech says he enjoyed working with Tommy.  I don't know if it's the weed or the old age talking because he used to say just the opposite.

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Eddie Van Halen and Cheech Marin Performed at 1985 Charity Gig

 Some really rare audio popped up on YouTube today.


On May 12, 1985, Eddie Van Halen and Cheech Marin, Cheech and Chong, team up to play some songs for a charity event. They play a cover of Marvin Gaye's Ain't That Peculiar, Cheech's songs "Mexican Americans" and "Born in East La", and The Troggs' "Wild Thing."

It's a cassette audience recording where Eddie and Cheech performed as Van Hey Man!

00:00 - Intro

00:21 - Valerie Bertinelli speaks

00:41 - Ain’t That Peculiar-Marvin Gaye cover

02:39 - Eddie Van Halen solo

05:07 - Mexican Americans

06:49 - Eddie Van Halen Ripping

07:17 - Cheech Marin rapping to the audience

08:14 - Born in East LA

10:43 - Edward letting loose

13:34 - Introduction to the Van Hey Man band

15:19 - Eddie Van Halen’s introduction and some shredding

15:45 - Intro for Cheech Lee Roth with scream

16:30 - Wild Thing cover song

18:19 - Ed does Eddie

The event was to support MER or Malibu Emergency Room, a charity that created an emergency room for Malibu residents. You can read more about the event here.

Here's an article about the event.


Friday, January 06, 2023

Cheech Marin to Appear in NBC's Lopez vs. Lopez

 Al Madrigal is very excited about the upcoming guests on NBC’s Lopez vs. Lopez with Rita Moreno and Cheech Marin.

The two beloved and respected Latin actors are set to guest star and appear in the eighth episode of the season tomorrow night.

Moreno joins the cast as George’s late Grandma Dolores, who becomes a feisty spirit that haunts George to do right by her, one way or another. And like the traditional grandmother, she has her chancla and razor-sharp tongue to set him straight when he disobeys or argues.

As for Marin, he plays Carlos, a curandero invited to their home to rid of the uninvited spirit. As an all-knowing, all-powerful mystic, he will be the powerful conduit between the supernatural and temporal worlds. Not to mention, he’ll be a straight-shooting shaman who can diagnose the ghost and accepts Bitcoin in the meantime.

Here is the official synopsis of Episode 108:

When the Lopez home is disturbed by an evil spirit, the family enlists a curandero (Cheech Marin) who tells them the house isn’t haunted, it’s George! The ghost of his grandmother (Rita Moreno) is hell-bent on righting a past wrong and will keep throwing chanclas at his big head until he does it.