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How Yevgeny Prigozhin Went From Hot Dog Vendor to Putin's Right-Hand Man

2023-08-23

Early Business Ventures - Prigozhin began his business career as a hot dog vendor in St. Petersburg. He then opened a chain of restaurants and catering businesses, including a restaurant in the Kremlin that became a favorite of Vladimir Putin.
Political Connections - Prigozhin forged close ties with the Kremlin, becoming an influential figure in Putin's inner circle. He has been linked to a number of controversial businesses, including the Internet Research Agency, which was accused of meddling in the 2016 US presidential election.
Wealth and Influence - Prigozhin has amassed a considerable fortune, and his influence in Russian politics has grown exponentially. He is believed to control a number of companies that have been awarded lucrative government contracts.
Controversy - Prigozhin has been accused of being behind a number of shady activities, including the attempted assassination of a former Russian intelligence officer. He has also been linked to a number of mercenary groups operating in Syria.
Conclusion - Yevgeny Prigozhin has come a long way from his humble beginnings as a hot dog vendor. He has become one of the most influential figures in Russian politics, and a close confidant of Vladimir Putin. His rise to power has been controversial, and his activities have drawn the attention of US and European authorities.

2023-08-15

He was a star running back - Alex Collins was a star running back for the Baltimore Ravens, and was widely considered one of the best running backs in the NFL. He had a successful career, amassing over 1,000 yards in two of his three seasons with the Ravens.
He was released - In 2019, the Ravens released Collins due to a series of off-field issues, including an arrest for possession of marijuana.
He was signed by the Seahawks - In 2020, the Seattle Seahawks signed Collins to a one-year deal. However, he was cut before the season began due to an ankle injury.
He was arrested again - In 2020, Collins was arrested again, this time for driving under the influence. He was released on bail, but was suspended by the NFL.
He retired - After being released by the Seahawks and suspended by the NFL, Collins announced his retirement from football in 2020.
He is now a personal trainer - Collins is now a personal trainer, helping athletes reach their fitness goals. He has also started his own podcast, where he talks about his journey and shares advice for aspiring athletes.

2023-08-10

Early Interest in Music - As a child, Robertson was exposed to a variety of musical styles and instruments, including country, jazz, and blues. His mother and father encouraged him to explore his interest in music, and he quickly became an accomplished guitarist.
Joining Ronnie Hawkins' Band - Robertson's big break came when he joined Ronnie Hawkins' backing band, The Hawks, in 1958. While with the band, he was exposed to a variety of musical styles, including rock and roll, and was able to hone his skills as a songwriter and performer.
Forming The Band - In 1968, Robertson and four other members of The Hawks formed their own band, which they named The Band. The group quickly became renowned for their soulful, roots-rock sound, and Robertson's songwriting and guitar playing were integral to their success.
Collaborating with Bob Dylan - In 1965, Robertson began working with Bob Dylan as part of The Hawks. The two musicians collaborated on a number of songs, including "Like a Rolling Stone," which would become one of Dylan's most iconic songs.
Solo Success - In 1987, Robertson released his first solo album, Robbie Robertson. The album was a critical and commercial success, and featured contributions from a variety of guest musicians, including Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, and U2.

2023-08-10

An Innovator - Robertson was an innovator from the start, using his unique guitar style to create a sound unlike any other. His experimentation with different genres and styles made him a pioneer of the genre-bending approach that is so popular today.
The Band - Robertson was a founding member of The Band, one of the most influential rock groups of the 1960s. He wrote and produced some of the group's most famous songs, including "The Weight" and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down."
The Collaborator - Robertson worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Van Morrison. He was an integral part of the studio production process, helping to craft some of the most beloved albums of the era.
The Producer - Robertson was a sought-after producer, working with artists such as The Band, Neil Young, and Peter Gabriel. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring out the best in each artist.
The Legacy - Robertson's influence on music history is undeniable. His unique style and innovative approach to songwriting and production have left a lasting impression on generations of musicians.

2023-08-07

The French Connection - Friedkin's 1971 crime thriller, starring Gene Hackman, earned him an Academy Award for Best Director.
The Exorcist - His 1973 horror film is considered one of the scariest movies ever made and earned him a second Academy Award nomination for Best Director.
Sorcerer - This 1977 thriller was a financial flop but is now regarded as one of his best films.
To Live and Die in L.A. - This 1985 neo-noir crime thriller starred Willem Dafoe and earned Friedkin his third Academy Award nomination for Best Director.
Jade - This 1995 erotic thriller, starring David Caruso and Linda Fiorentino, was a commercial and critical failure.
Killer Joe - This 2011 neo-noir black comedy, starring Matthew McConaughey, earned Friedkin his fourth Academy Award nomination for Best Director.
The Devil and Father Amorth - This 2017 documentary, which follows a real-life exorcism, was Friedkin's most recent directorial effort.