Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/08/lend-your-ears-to-these-awesome-black-podcasts/

*Since podcasts came along, commuting has been forever changed. Whether in your car or on the train, it’s hard to beat the entertainment or knowledge you gain from listening to a podcast. In 2018, it’s rare that we think anyone would need to know what a podcast is, as the medium has exploded in popularity due to the likes of Serial, This American Life, and The Joe Rogan Experience. Podcasters, it seems, are becoming the new radio stars.

It should come as no surprise that a great many listenable podcasts have emerged from talented and funny black hosts across the U.S. From sports to movies to social issues, these hosts are just some of the voices of our nation right now, and they most certainly deserve your undivided attention during your next commute.

Much like fellow ex-NBA star Chris Webber, Shaq’s deep, booming voice works surprisingly well in podcast form, with Diesel naturally discussing current events surrounding basketball, but all sorts of entertainment news and randomness generally happen on the podcast. The big guy has some wild stories to tell and you’re never short of laughs here, but things can also get a bit emotional, primarily when one-time-enemy-but-still-friend-and-ex-Laker Kobe Bryant joined the show for an engaging reunion with Shaq.

Jonathan, James, and Jerah are three guys who focus predominantly on the film and TV careers of black actors, with news, reviews, and interviews making up the run time of each episode. Although the guys try to present a more lighthearted and fun look at the entertainment industry, they do take the topic incredibly seriously and really know their stuff. Recently featured on the podcast was Charles Stone, the director of Kyrie Irving’s first motion picture, “Uncle Drew”.

Although you might think these four very chatty and hilarious women (Ramou, Alesia, Fatima, and Aurelia) simply end up talking over each other, this couldn’t be any further from the truth. Intelligent, thought-provoking but still entertaining discussions take place on the matters of race, pop culture, politics, and let’s be honest, simply random girl talk. Every now and then a guest appears, but really, it’s the camaraderie between these four black ladies which is the heart of the podcast.

Hosts Kid Fury and Crissle have such a fantastic dynamic between the two of them, that you’ll instantly be hooked on their smart (but often silly) banter. With Kid Fury hailing from Miami and Crissle from Oklahoma City, the fact that both now record the show in New York lends itself well to a fascinating insight into two black friends simply trying to make it in The Big Apple. The duo routinely cover pop culture and hip-hop news, but certainly aren’t afraid to voice their opinions on anyone they think needs taking down a peg or two.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/will-smith-to-perform-at-closing-ceremony-of-2018-fifa-world-cup-ceremonies/

*Will Smith is back in the news again today (after going viral earlier with his “In My Feelings” challenge). The actor/rapper, who will be featured as a performer at the closing ceremonies of the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, says Americans are “cut off” from the “magical global energy” and joy that the tournament brings.

At the press conference to speak on the upcoming performance, Smith remembered his first encounter with the global event in South Korea back in 2002.

“[The 2002 World Cup in] Seoul was the first World Cup that I went to,” Smith said. “And it was the first time that I really got to experience it first-hand on the ground. And you know being from America we say football meaning something different. That was an introduction for me and I sort of realized how much as Americans we were cut off from the world and the joy in that world. From that point I’ve been to three of the last four World Cup events. It is such a massive energy.”

“It’s just an absolutely magical global energy that I love being a part of,” he added.

Smith also said that he always enjoys visiting such a “historically rich” country as Russia, which makes him realize how young America is.

“I’ve been here [in Russia] a few times, I think the first time was [when we filmed] ‘I, Robot,’ so it was like 14-15 years ago. So that was my first time,” the actor said.

“What is always special for me, when you come to some place like Russia with that much history… America is really a young country. When you get into places you know like just how old things are and how rich and how much history there is. So for me it’s as far and as different from America in terms of architecture as a place can be. I always enjoy it artistically.”

If you’re wondering, Smith will perform the tournament’s official song “Live it Up,” at Luzhniki stadium alongside US star Nicky Jam and Kosovan singer and songwriter Era Istrefi, RT reports.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/aafca-summer-screenings-series-celebrates-25th-anniv-of-john-singletons-poetic-justice/

*(ATLANTA) – Following its homage to the iconic Eddie Murphy film, COMING TO AMERICA, to mark its 30^thanniversary, the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) continues its inaugural Summer Screening Series with 25^th anniversary screenings of POETIC JUSTICE in Los Angeles July 14 at the Mark Taper Forum hosted by the “Curvy Film Critic” Carla Renata, and Atlanta July 21 at the Auburn Avenue Research Library hosted by former Rolling Out editor Yvette Caslin.

The Los Angeles screening will feature a Q&A with director John Singleton and is presented in partnership with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Diversity & Inclusion department.

According to AAFCA co-founder/president Gil Robertson, “the series has become a multigenerational experience that’s attracting a diverse audience of young and old, which adds another dimension to the screening. A majority of our younger audience have never seen these films on the big screen and the experience of watching a movie that way is different.”

Just before the AAFCA Summer Screening Series launched, AAFCA Programs Director Nicholas Maye said, “the fact that these films are still impactful 30, 25 and 20 years later speaks to the long-lasting power of Black film and its images and themes.”

“John Singleton is a talented director whose work not only entertains but raises awareness of the multifaceted African American experience. Sony Pictures has a long history with John and we are honored to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his critically-acclaimed film, ‘Poetic Justice,’” said Paul Martin, Chief Diversity Officer at Sony Pictures Entertainment.

An urban romance written and directed by John Singleton, POETIC JUSTICE, starring Janet Jackson and the late rapper/actor Tupac Shakur, along with Regina King and comedian Joe Torry, was a film ahead of its time with its theme of mental health in urban neighborhoods plagued by senseless violence and the enormous limitations created by poverty. Justice, (Janet Jackson’s character), is a poet and hairstylist who lives in depression after her boyfriend, a cameo performance by rapper/actor Q-Tip, is murdered. She is mostly a recluse. Meeting Lucky (Shakur), a young postal worker with great musical potential who is also dealing with his young daughter’s drug addicted mother, changes that. On a road trip outside Los Angeles with Justice’s best friend Iesha (King) and Lucky’s friend Chicago (Torry), Justice and Lucky grow closer. Poems from Maya Angelou attributed to Justice are recited throughout the film.

In August, AAFCA concludes its inaugural 2018 Summer Screening Series with a 20^th anniversary screening of the Mississippi-set drama DOWN IN THE DELTA, the only major feature film directed by the phenomenal Maya Angelou. The film also showcases one of the last performances by the great Esther Rolle. Wesley Snipes and Alfre Woodard also star.

ABOUT AAFCA SUMMER SCREENING SERIES
Since the beginning of film, Black filmmakers have pushed the boundaries of the craft in both big and small ways. With that in mind, the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) launched the Summer Screening Series to focus on films celebrating the diversity of Black culture and life, as well as the incredible power of imagination as well as the evolution of Black filmmakers overall. Consequently, our summer showcase of Black film focuses on anniversary titles that are of critical importance to film audiences. For more information about AAFCA, visit: www.aafca.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/08/mokelly-pays-tribute-to-aretha-franklin-in-song-audio/

*There is no better way to celebrate the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin, but through song…her songs.

Join KFI AM640’s Mo’Kelly on a musical journey through the life of the Queen of Soul with this extended walk down memory lane of one of the greatest musicians and singers the world has ever seen.

“All hail the queen.”

The Mo’Kelly Show airs Saturdays and Sundays on the #1 news/talk station in America KFIAM640 and iHeartRadio. For more: visit Mo’Kelly’s website at mrmokelly.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/cheyenne-martin-foundation-hosts-adult-for-a-day-indoor-learning-experience-for-55-young-women/

*Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles-based, Cheyenne Martin Foundation (CMF) hosts a number of events in Los Angeles, California and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To date, the nonprofit’s annual events, include charity drives for the back-to-school season, and Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

On Tuesday, July 24, 2018, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, at the Junior Achievement Finance Park, CMF will sponsor a full day of education to 55 young women. The young women, ages 12 to 18 are from the YMCA in San Fernando and Life Line Charter School in Compton.

During the program, at the JA Finance Park, the young women will be given a unique life profile after answering a series of future lifestyle questions. Their life profile includes an income, marital status, and even kids. Using this new adult persona, they work to create a balanced monthly budget while making decision regarding housing, transportation, insurance, savings, entertainment expenses and more.

The JA Finance Park program will teach:

• The difference between debit and credit
• How to budget for personal expense
• Why savings is important
• How much money they need to earn to support themselves
• How to set up checking and savings accounts

The first part of the day is about how adults live. The young women go to their assigned business to meet their volunteer, where they will then check out an iPad from their volunteer. They then discover the adult identity they will assume and conduct research. They then join volunteers and visit each business and read and discuss information for each budget category. Next, the young women build a monthly budget, informed by their research and volunteer discussion.

Lastly, the young women learn about responsible spending and budgeting. They visit each business on their iPad to make their shopping selections. They then visit each storefront in JA Finance Park to pay for all their shopping selections. During the last portion of the day, they receive a final report that details their life scenario and decisions.

For donation or volunteer opportunities:
www.CheyenneMartinFoundation.org Or: info@cheyennemartinfoundation.org

About Cheyenne Martin
Cheyenne Martin, Founder and Executive Director of Cheyenne Martin Foundation, has been giving advice and encouragement to women for almost her entire life. Through her Foundation, Martin strives to empower women, giving back to them the kinds of opportunities, inspiration, and drive to succeed and better oneself that she has received throughout her life and career thus far. Martin has been as intensely committed to helping other women and encouraging them to constantly reach for their own goals as she has her own.

Martin was active in the “Hoops for Hope” charity basketball game held at the Los Angeles Staples Center, and she was part of the “I Am Truth” campaign event of the Star Foundation, shot by famed photographer Adam Brouska (founder of NoH8). Ultimately, she again sought to grow and build on her knowledge and experience, deciding to establish her own foundation, and in 2015, she founded and established the Cheyenne Martin Foundation a 501©3 non-profit organization.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/08/nicki-minaj-delays-tour-amid-reports-of-disappointing-ticket-sales/

*Nicki Minaj has pushed back the start of her upcoming tour with Future, citing the need for more time to “reevaluate elements of production,” but the announcement comes as the New York Post reports of the rapper “spiraling out of control” amid disastrous ticket sales.

We’re told stubs for her upcoming tour — to begin next month — aren’t flying off the shelves.

A Live Nation source told us, “Nicki’s tour could be the most disappointing ticket sales of the year for any artist. These are big arenas with up to 20,000 capacities. Sales for opening night in Baltimore is 2,000 tickets. LA is 3,400, New Orleans 1,000, Denver 1,300, Chicago 3,900. Even her hometown Brooklyn is only 5,050.”

Sources even said the tour is in danger of being canceled.

Live Nation’s official announcement on Tuesday revealed a five-month postponement for the tour launch: “Following her unforgettable VMA performance, Nicki Minaj has decided to reevaluate elements of production on the NickiHndrxx Tour. … [and] to contribute more time to rehearsal ahead of the tour’s launch to make certain her fans get the absolute best quality show that they deserve.”

Due to kick off Sept. 23 in Washington D.C., the tour will now start in Europe on February 21, 2019 in Munich, Germany as planned. It continues through March 28, when Minaj is scheduled to hit Geneva, Switzerland. New North American dates, to be announced at a later date, will follow.

The re-routing also means that Future will not join Minaj for the North American leg.

Live Nation is offering refunds to those who purchased tickets for the NickiHndrxx Tour’s rescheduled dates.

Earlier this week, Minaj lashed out at Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner, accusing them of using their baby Stormi to boost sales of his new album “Astroworld,” which has sold more in its second week than Minaj’s week-old “Queen.”

Minaj also accused Scott of manipulating the sales of his No. 1 album by using a well-known industry cheat of bundling free albums with cheap merchandise — like clothing and so-called tour passes — to bump up sales figures.

During her Beats 1 show, “Queen Radio,” (listen above) she fumed that Scott was “selling f - - king sweaters [and] tour passes” and parading daughter Stormi “for publicity.”

She called Scott “ho n - - - a of the week,” ranting the alleged maneuver had put “Astroworld” at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 while “Queen,” debuted at No. 2.

An industry insider tells the New York Post’s Page Six: “Nicki has gone off the rails. She can’t take it that she sold less records than Cardi B (who’s stealing her thunder big time) in her first week; she can’t take it that Travis beat her to No. 1. Her ticket sales for her tour are in the toilet, and it’s making her even more crazy.”

This comes after a major Minaj meltdown on Twitter, when she caused a stir by comparing herself to abolitionist Harriet Tubman. And at the Video Music Awards Monday, show organizers moved Scott and Jenner to seats farther away from her. Get all of that tea, plus Nicki’s ex Safaree talking about his run-in with the rapper at the VMAs below, via HollywoodLife:

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/naacp-lifts-american-airlines-travel-advisory-cites-progress-on-commitments-including-implicit-bias-training/

San Antonio – NAACP, the nation’s foremost civil rights organization, today announced it has lifted its travel advisory against American Airlines. The organization issued the advisory last fall. The NAACP and its partners have been monitoring the airline’s progress on a number of commitments agreed to last year, including a diversity and inclusion gap analysis, implicit bias training for the airline’s 130,000 team members, and the implementation of a new discrimination complaint resolution process for both team members and customers.

“We have worked with American Airlines for nearly a year, and they have taken substantive action to begin to address implicit bias, said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “They have embraced the situation and we are encouraged by their commitment to improve upon their internal processes and increase inclusion across their airline. Our work with American has included very candid, open and ongoing dialogue about the realities for African Americans who travel with American and other airlines, and we will continue to monitor progress and share feedback with them.”

“Today’s news belongs to American’s 130,000 team members who have enthusiastically embraced our goal to lead all industry in diversity, inclusion and equality.  This is work that will never be complete, but we are making great progress,” said Doug Parker, CEO and Chairman of American Airlines. “We thank the NAACP for recognizing our progress and look forward to working with them in the future as we continue on this mission.”

About the NAACP:  
Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. You can read more about the NAACP’s work here.

About American Airlines Group: 
American Airlines and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. American has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. American is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. In 2015, its stock joined the S&P 500 index. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.

###

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. You can read more about the NAACP’s work and our six “Game Changer” issue areas here.

source:
NAACP Communications
vmbonu@naacpnet.org

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/eur-concert-review-the-gentlemen-of-soul-make-it-a-night-to-remember/

*The Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles was the place to be on Friday, July 20, as The Whispers, Jeffrey Osborne, Peabo Bryson, Freddie Jackson and Howard Hewett swaggered into town billing themselves as the “Gentlemen of Soul.”

Howard Hewett started the evening off performing hits, which included Shalimar’s “A Night to Remember” and concluded his set with my favorite, “Say Amen.” His voice was as soothing as ever and he is still eye candy. Howard was a good choice to get the evening started.

Freddie Jackson was up next and although allowed only 30 minutes to perform hits from his extensive arsenal, his choices were excellent. “Jam Tonight” “Tasty Love” and “You are My Lady” are audience favorites, so he didn’t go wrong choosing to perform those songs. He also didn’t go wrong with his wardrobe choice either. I loved his silver shoes. LOL!

Peabo! Peabo! Peabo! OMG! He is still as fine as ever and his voice was crisp, clear and as strong as it was when he first burst onto the scene. He was stimulating on both the visual and auditory fronts. He performed hit after hit. The audience was treated to new music, which was the bomb. Peabo also threw in an acoustic guitar-playing rendition of Sade’s “King of Sorrow.” We loved it! Of course we heard some of the Peabo staples from back in the day, which sounded as good as ever. “I’m So Into You” and “Feel the Fire” were performed to perfection as were the other songs, which included “Tonight I Celebrate My Love for You,” a duet he recorded with Roberta Flack, whose part was very adequately performed by one of his background singers. Peabo knows how to put on a show. I was actually apprehensive for the performer having to follow him to the stage.

That performer would be Jeffrey Osborne, who came out swinging for the fence, hit a homer (with “Holding On”) and followed up by knocking every other song out of the park, so to speak. His motto throughout his set was, “Old school is the shit!” Let me just say right now that his entire old school performance, in which he followed “Holding On” with James Brown’s “Funky Good Time” was definitely the shit. He performed “Love Ballad,” “Concentrate on You,” “On the Wings of Love” and also paid homage to George Duke, the man who produced pretty much all of Jeffrey’s solo hits, by performing George’s megahit, “Reach.” To say it was well received would be the understatement of the evening. The audience ate it up. There was also a portion of the set, when Jeffrey’s bass player did a baseline challenge; he played just the baseline portion of the song and the song should be recognized by the audience. Yep, we recognized The O’Jay’s, “For the Love of Money” and Stevie Wonder’s “I Wish.” Jeffrey’s time on stage was high energy and high octane from the first song. I’ve never seen a 70 year old perform with as much enthusiasm. He even made a quip that he didn’t know what he was doing moving like that at his age. That’s okay Jeffrey, you can rest today.  A Jeffrey Osborne concert wouldn’t be complete without the “Woo Woo challenge.” He had a male from the audience that could Woo Woo Woo with the best of them. The female wasn’t bad either, but what else would you expect from Glodean White, wife of the late Barry White and one-third of the singing trio Love Unlimited. Jeffrey’s set also included a new song, “Worth it All.” It was vintage Jeffrey and folks need to check it out because it is hot. Jeffrey’s entire set was hot!

The final act of the evening was The Whispers. What can you say about the Whispers that have not already been said a thousand times during their more than 50 year illustrious music career? Their set began with a Soul Train video clip from several decades ago. Throughout the set, pictures were displayed of the Whispers through the years. Hearing, “Gotta Do Wrong” nearly five decades later, really magnified their longevity. The Whispers have way too many hits to perform in an evening shared with four other artists, so they performed key songs from their immense treasure chest. A Whispers concert is not a Whispers concert without hearing “Keep On Loving Me,” “Rock Steady” and “Say Yes,” all of which sounded pretty darn good. Although now nearly 75 years old, the Scott twins are still making it do what it do and at 69, Leavell Degree is as fit as a fiddle.

By now, folks should be able to tell that I had a ball watching the Gentlemen of Soul. In fact, I’m already looking forward to the next one; whenever it happens. If you never seen these gentlemen perform, you may want to consider it. I doubt that you would regret it.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/08/mokelly-and-roland-martins-unfiltered-look-at-america-audio/

*September 4th marks the launch of the highly-anticipated daily digital show, “Roland Martin Unfiltered” which will feature news and cultural commentator Roland Martin at his best; breaking down the issues of the day. The former host of “News One Now” wanted to make sure that not only will he be unlimited in his reach in the digital age, but also unfiltered in his content.

I had the opportunity to take a deep dive into both the present state of America as well as its complex history with Martin; as we give context to the dysfunctional state of American politics and the coarse rhetoric which surrounds it.

You will not make it to end of our extended conversation without feeling something, learning something and most importantly being moved to do something; be an active participant in American democracy.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/maxwell-announces-50-intimate-nights-live-tour/

*Today, Maxwell announces his “50 Intimate Nights Live” tour, a 50-date trek to many of North America’s top theatres, including New York’s Beacon Theatre, LA’s Microsoft Theater, and Chicago’s Chicago Theatre.

Following on the heels of performances at North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam and Afropunk Paris, the multi-GRAMMY-winning soul singer will debut new material during these intimate shows alongside his many critically acclaimed hits.

Tickets will go on-sale starting this Friday, July 27th. A limited number of VIP Packages will be available beginning Wednesday, July 25th. VIP Packages may include a front row seat, meet & greet with Maxwell and limited edition merchandise. VIP packages are available to purchase here: http://www.musze.com/tour/

Last month, Maxwell debuted “We Never Saw It Coming,” his reflective new song and his first piece of new music since 2016. The song’s music video, ‘The Glass House,’ is a chilling music short-film starring Maxwell and activist/actress/model Yomi Abiola. The film was written and directed by Jay Z collaborators Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz.

A 20th anniversary reissue of Maxwell’s 1998 album ‘Embrya’ will also be released this fall. More details to come.

“50 Intimate Nights Live” Tour Dates:
9/27 – Richmond, VA – Altria Theater
9/28 – Durham, NC – The Art of Cool Festival
9/29 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
10/2 – Pittsburgh, PA – Heinz Hall
10/4 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
10/5 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
10/6 – Baltimore, MD – MECU Pavilion
10/8 – Norfolk, VA – Chrysler Hall
10/9 – Charlotte, NC – Charlotte Metro Credit Union Amphitheatre
10/10 – Augusta, GA – Bell Auditorium
10/12 – Atlanta, GA – State Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park
10/13 – Jacksonville, FL – Moran Theatre at Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts
10/14 – Mobile, AL – Saenger Theatre
10/16 – Orlando, FL – Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
10/17 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at the Event Center
10/18 – St. Petersburg, FL – Mahaffey Theater
10/20 – Huntsville, AL – Von Braun Center Concert Hall
10/21 – Jackson, MS – Thalia Mara Hall
10/24 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre
10/25 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre
10/27 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
10/28 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
10/29 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theatre
11/1 – Phoenix, AZ – Comerica Theatre
11/2 – San Diego, CA – Humphreys Concerts by the Bay
11/3 – Reno, NV – Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort
11/4 – Las Vegas, NV – The Pearl @ Palms Casino Resort
11/8 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre
11/9 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre
11/10 – Los Angeles, CA – Microsoft Theater
11/14 – Kansas City, MO – Arvest Bank Theatre at The Midland
11/15 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
11/18 – Nashville, TN – Schermerhorn Symphony Center
11/20 – Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater
11/21 – Minneapolis, MN – State Theatre
11/23 – Louisville, KY – Louisville Palace
11/24 – Northfield, OH – Hard Rock Live
11/26 – Toronto, ON – Sony Centre for the Performing Arts
11/28 – Montclair, NJ – The Wellmont Theater
11/29 – Westbury, NY – NYCB Theatre At Westbury
12/1 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre
12/2 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre
12/3 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre
12/5 – Boston, MA – Orpheum Theatre
12/7 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
12/8 – Upper Darby, PA – Tower Theater
12/9 – New York, NY – Beacon Theatre
*VIP Packages will be available for Richmond, National Harbor and Baltimore on Wednesday, August 1st

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/official-dates-announced-for-the-2019-essence-festival-july-4-7-2019/

*NEW YORK — ESSENCE, the number one content, commerce and technology company aimed at Black women, today announced July 4-7, 2019 as the official dates for its franchise event, the ESSENCE Festival®.  2019 will mark the ESSENCE Festival’s 25^th anniversary, with a 4-day celebration set to take place in New Orleans, Louisiana.

On the heels of this year’s record-setting Festival, which attracted more than 510,000 attendees and achieved a first-ever sell-out of its 3-night concert series, the Essence Fest community is encouraged to register here for information and early access to 2019 weekend ticket packages.

“The ESSENCE Festival represents culture, community and a powerful convening around one of the largest curated content experiences in the world,” commented ESSENCE Communications President Michelle Ebanks.  “As we look forward to the Festival’s 25^th anniversary celebration in 2019, we will continue to offer curated platforms of entertainment, empowerment, entrepreneurship, activism and more that will both engage and inspire Black women globally.”

The reach and scale of the annual ESSENCE Festival is unmatched, with more than 100 performing artists across the Louisiana Superdome and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. In addition, more than 200 influencers, leaders, creators and celebrities participated in the Festival’s daytime experience – rebranded as ‘Conference & Expos’ with programming across eight tracks spanning Beauty & Style to Business & Entrepreneurship.

Also engaging millions across the globe, simultaneous live streams of the daytime experience on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, and partnerships with Getty, IGTV and Snapchat Live ultimately generated trending status on social media.

For a full recap of all the exciting moments from the 2018 ESSENCE Festival, visit ESSENCE.com and log in to the ESSENCE Festival News Center for photo and video footage highlights.

About Essence Communications Inc.
Essence Communications is the number one content, commerce and technology company aimed at Black women; inspiring a global audience of more than 15 million through diverse storytelling and immersive original content.  With a multi-platform presence in publishing, experiential and online, ESSENCE encompasses its signature magazine; digital, video and social platforms; television specials; books; as well as live events, including Black Women in Music, Black Women in Hollywood, Street Style and the ESSENCE Festival.  Essence Communications is owned by Essence Ventures, an independent African-American owned company focused on merging content, community and commerce to meet the evolving cultural and lifestyle needs of women of color.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/cedric-the-entertainer-receives-star-on-the-hollywood-walk-of-fame-after-30-years-in-the-business/

*Cedric The Entertainer celebrated 30 Years in Show Business surrounded by close family, friends, and fans as he received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honored the comedian and actor on Thursday, July 19, with the well-deserved award for his work in entertainment.

Cedric the Entertainer expressed to EURweb how it felt to get his star on the walk of fame.

“On my star day, its official and it’s so great to be recognized. I’ve been doing this a long time, starting in stand-up then having the opportunity to go to television and film. Doing comedy in a little place in St Louis [and have it] take me all around the world to this moment where I got a star on the walk of fame is unique and a blessing.”

Celebrities on hand for the event included former cast mates Niecy Nash, Terri J. Vaughn, Michael Blackson, Comedian Rell and more.  Also in attendance was the cast of his New CBS show “The Neighborhood,” Max Greenfield, Hank Greenspan, Shawn McKinney, and  Marcel Spears.

Cedric’s friends and fellow Walk of Famers Magic Johnson and George Lopez helped to unveil the star with amazing speeches dedicated to Cedric.

EURweb correspondent Miss Conversation Piece got some quotes from those closest to Cedric to congratulate him on the award.

“Way before all the jokes, Ced and I went to college together so what I really saw in him was a good person.” -Eric Rhone, manager

It is an amazing feeling right now to see another brother that I grew up with doing stand-up get his name on a star. That just gave everybody hope, every comedian hope especially us black ones. Congratulations Cedric you have opened the doors for all of us. – Michael Blackson, Comedian

I would like to think of a word more than happy or congratulations and all that kinda stuff but I can think of nothing but I’m just tickled pink.  One of the things that I would like for you all to know is when Ced was growing up the kids in the neighborhood used to call him Hollywood so it’s come to fruition that they called him Hollywood now he is Hollywood. – Kittrell Kyles, Cedric’s Father

You know the one thing about Hollywood is that everybody comes from someplace else and you come here from Clark Gables to Marilyn Monroe to Michael Jackson to George Clooney and those doors are always closed at first. Your talent opens the doors. I look at myself as the unofficial mayor of Los Angeles and this man is deserving because I’ve never seen anyone that people embrace so much someone that they have never said a negative word about which is almost impossible in this industry and this time of social media. As an African American performer when you walk the streets of Hollywood Boulevard you look down and you see the people of color and they mean more to you because you know that it’s not easy to be on that sidewalk. I told him today take your wife and daughter to go there touch it and understand what it means. – George Lopez, Friend & Actor

I feel completely inspired seeing him get the star we are fortunate to be working with who we consider being two legends Tischina Arnold and Cedric the Entertainer. We’ve been watching since we were kids so watching him do this is a career path. Follow these stars right to him and follow in his footsteps and God willing this will happen.  –Sheaun McKinney, Cast member of ‘The Neighborhood’

It really makes it tangible seeing Ced get the star because I grew up watching him do what he does. Like he is brilliant and he is so generous and the fact that I get to work with him and I get to see this big milestone in his life its really inspiring and something I can hope to look forward to. – Marcel Spears, Cast member of the ‘The Neighborhood’

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/bobby-brown-faith-evans-bebe-cece-winans-dallas-austin-recipients-of-2018-black-music-honors-awards/

*Chicago-based television production company Central City Productions (CCP) announced the 2018 Black Music Honors, the annual two-hour television special that honors artists and musicians who have influenced and made significant contributions to American music. The television special is set to film on Thursday, August 16th in Nashville, TN.

This year’s recipients include Bobby Brown, who will receive the R&B Soul Music Icon Award for his 40 years in entertainment and 32 years as a solo artist, Bebe and Cece Winans, who will be co-honorees of the Gospel Music Icon Award, chart-topping music producer and label executive Dallas Austin, who will be presented with the Music Innovator Icon Award, and multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning recording artist, songwriter and producer Faith Evans, who is set to receive the Urban Music Icon Award.

“The vision of the Black Music Honors is to recognize the trailblazers in African American music who have paved the way for the artists of today. Many of these artists have never received their much-deserved recognition,” said Don Jackson, founder and CEO of Central City Productions.

Television and radio personality Rickey Smiley and Grammy Award-winner and actress LeToya Luckett return as co-hosts of the show, which is set to air on broadcast syndication on Sept. 8-30, 2018. This year’s sponsors include AT&T, McDonald’s, Walmart, Johnson & Johnson, and Chevrolet with State Farm tapped as the title sponsor.

Ticket proceeds will benefit the 2019 opening of the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in Nashville. NMAAM’s mission is to educate the world, preserve the legacy, and celebrate the central role African Americans play in creating the American soundtrack.

This epic event will be held at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) located at 505 Deaderick St., Nashville, TN. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show taping at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available HERE.

For more information on Black Music Honors, head to www.blackmusichonors.com and connect with us on social media for more updates @blackmusichonors.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/trayvon/

*Grammy® Award-winning rapper, Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, lead MC of the hip-hop band The Roots, has recorded an original composition, “Rest In Power,” that will air as part of a new six-part original documentary series, “Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story.

The series, produced by the Peabody Award-winning team behind last year’s critically acclaimed series “TIME: The Kalief Browder Story,” Shawn Carter and The Cinemart, will premiere Monday, July 30 at 10 PM, ET/PT.

Trotter’s powerful original musical tribute pays homage to the life and legacy of Trayvon Martin, whose death became the catalyst for the Black Lives Matter movement. Filmed in Gotham Hall, footage from the original documentary series becomes larger than life as it is projected behind Tarik while he performs his original piece for the music video directed by Rohan Blair-Mangat.

The full music video can be viewed on Paramount Network’s YouTube Channel and ParamountNetwork.com. With the song’s commanding lyrics and the video’s powerful imagery, Trotter and Paramount collectively agreed that the project deserved a bigger audience. On Monday July 23rd, 2018 both the video and track will be available on all digital streaming platforms with 100% of the proceeds going to The Trayvon Martin Foundation.

Trayvon Martin was an unarmed 17-year old African American high school student shot and killed by a neighborhood watch member in the Sanford, Florida community on February 26, 2012 where he was visiting a friend with his father. George Zimmerman was acquitted of a second-degree murder charge utilizing Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law, claiming he shot Martin in self-defense.

The fatal encounter between Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman and the subsequent trial polarized the nation, sparking outrage and protests and shined an unforgiving light on issues including race, politics, power, money and, gun control.

Interviews combined with home videos, family photos, and news footage will take viewers beyond the news cycle and offer an intimate look at the story of a young life tragically cut short and that spurred a movement giving rise to a rallying cry that still resonates today, #BlackLivesMatter.

“Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story” also addresses the significant cultural and societal issues surrounding the tragedy as well as an in-depth examination into the investigation, trial, and the not-guilty verdict.

“Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story” is produced for Paramount Network by Shawn Carter and The Cinemart. Executive Producers are Shawn Carter, Mike Gasparro, Jenner Furst, Julia Willoughby Nason, Nick Sandow, David C. Glasser, Chachi Senior, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin. Furst and Nason are co-directors on the project.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/marvin-gaye-post-office-naming-press-conference-set-for-today-in-la/

*The family and friends of Marvin Gaye will hold a press conference today (07-25-18) at 12Noon Pacific in Los Angeles to announce that a bill to name a post office for Marvin Gaye was signed in to law by President Donald Trump.

“Marvin Gaye’s music has transcended generations and gave (us) the ’70s and ’80s a sound,” said Rep. Karen Bass, D-Los Angeles, who introduced HR 1496 to name the post office at 3585 S. Vermont Avenue, the Marvin Gaye Post Office.

Because of solo hits such as “How Sweet It Is,” “Ain’t That Peculiar,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and his duet singles with such singers as Mary Wells and Tammi Terrell, Gaye was dubbed “The Prince of Motown” and “The Prince of Soul.”

Gaye won Grammys in 1983 for best male rhythm and blues vocal performance and best R&B instrumental performance for “Sexual Healing.” Gaye was elected to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

“On behalf of the Gaye Family we are truly grateful and humbly appreciate Congresswoman Karen Bass for her dedicated work and blessing the Gaye family with such a prestigious honor to dedicate and name a United States Post Office after our beloved Marvin Gaye Jr.

“And to activist Najee Ali we also appreciate your efforts in bringing the Marvin Gaye Post office proposal to Congressmember Bass and helping get this bill passed.We thank both of you from the bottom of our hearts with much love.” – Zeola Gaye, Marvin’s baby sister.

Press conference
Date: Wednesday – July 25, 2018
Time: Noon
Address: U.S. Post Office
3585 S.Vermont Ave (Across from USC)
Los Angeles CA

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/peabo-bryson-drops-exclusive-video-of-new-single-all-she-wants-to-do-is-me-watch/

*(ATLANTA, GA) — Double Grammy® and Double Oscar® Award-Winning Balladeer, Peabo Bryson, is killing the game! Just a few months after announcing the upcoming release of his 21st studio album, Stand For Love, his first single, “Love Like Yours and Mine,” has taken position in the #3 spot on Billboard’s Adult R&B chart … and he’s just getting started!

Now, the music legend has released an exclusive video for his next hit single, “All She Wants To Do Is Me” – an uptempo dance groove that has already premiered on an episode of Showtime’s hit series, The Chi, and is sure to be a steppers anthem for generations to come!

“It was placed in a scene for a block party,” confirms Bryson regarding the song’s feature on The Chi. “That’s unusual for a Peabo Bryson record, or should I say ‘new and exciting’ for Peabo Bryson, and it’s one of those songs for all you steppers out there.”

He continues, “It’s a song called ‘All She Wants To Do Is Me,’ and if you’re fortunate to have this kind of relationship, where all you want to do is each other… is the bomb-ziggity!”

Stand for Love is Peabo’s 21st studio album. Set to release on Friday, August 3, it is already being considered a 9-track masterpiece, not only because of his legendary voice, but also because of his collaboration with the world-renowned, super-producer duo, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis!

“All of the right elements fell into place for this project,” says Bryson. “I challenged Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis to make me current…while maintaining the integrity of what I have built as an important body of work. I have to say, it is nothing less than amazing!”

With a musical career that includes two GRAMMYs®, two Oscars®, multiple gold albums, multiple #1 songs and chart-topping singles in R&B, Pop and Contemporary Jazz, Bryson’s return is a breath of fresh air to both seasoned fans and those of younger generations.

“Peabo is just one of the greatest voices of our time,” mentions Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis in a joint statement. “He exudes a class and sophistication that’s so needed in music today. I know R&B needs Peabo Bryson especially now. And his fans both old and new will fall in love with Stand For Love.”

Fans can pre-order Stand For Love through various music service providers including iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, WalMart today! Click here for details: https://PeaboBryson.lnk.to/StandForLove.

For a full list of tour dates and music updates, visit www.TheRealPeaboBryson.com.

UPCOMING 2018 TOUR DATES

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/the-bill-pickett-rodeo-entertains-in-los-angeles-photos/

*Founded in 1985 by the late Lu Vason, The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has traveled to many cities and is known as the world’s only touring African American rodeo. The rodeo employs men and women of all ages, not only as rodeo participants, but as animal handlers, stable hands, cooks, and a large variety of administrative tasks.

Student workers often obtain scholarships for college and it is known throughout the youth that a good rodeo performance caught on tape could land them a full ride at one of the many historically black colleges and universities.  That means hard work can land them, not only fun, healthy habits, but there is a potential to set them on a positive path for success in life.

The Bill Pickett Rodeo website features not only information about their current champions, but also information on all the events and how black cowboys have affected the sport.

According to the website, “Annually, dust will fly as spectators cheer for their favorite Black Cowboys and Cowgirls competing during thrilling Calf Ropin’, exhilarating Bareback Ridin’, Bull Doggin, Ladies Barrel Racin’, Junior Barrel Racin’, Ladies Steer Undercoatin’, and gripping Bull Ridin.’”

The Bill Pickett Rodeo Series moves to Atlanta, GA on Saturday, August 4, 2018, at 7:30 pm and Sunday, August 5, 2018, at 3:30 pm at the Georgia International Horse Park.  Following that, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo will be moving on to the DC-Virginia area with it’s ‘Rodeo for Kidz Sake’ on Friday, September 21, 2018, at 10:00 AM. The Bill Pickett Championship Rodeo will continue in the DC-Virginia area on Saturday, September 22, 2018, 1:30 pm & 7:30 pm at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD.

The Star of this year’s rodeo was this unnamed bull.  Aside from the flagrant flaunting of his personality, this bull possessed a white stripe along his nose, short horns, and glossy black fur.

One thing to remember, these animals, despite their great strength and fearsome looks, are peaceful beasts who don’t want to hurt anyone, but sometimes accidents happen.  

Sometimes, like with the bull with the white stripe along his nose, the animals decide not to follow the traditional directions and show a bit of its own personality.

Here a cowboy ropes a stubborn bull.  This bull decided that he’d had his fun and peacefully returned to the stable with the other bulls.  

When the same cowboy tried to lasso the bull with the white stripe, the bull turned toward the cowboy and faked a charge resulting in a quick retreat and dropping of the rope.

It should be noted that every time this particular cowboy twirled his lasso, it found its way around the neck of some loose animal, but the majority of the time, especially with the smaller animals and horses, they were ‘wrangled’ or guided into the stable adjacent the arena floor without the need of ropes, whips or any type of aggressive actions. 

Surely this bull has a name, known by his trainers and owners, however before the EURWeb staff could get back to ask his name, he charged and bucked a trainer seriously injuring his leg.  The trainer will be ok, and paramedics were quick to respond after his wife and co-workers managed to secure the animal.

Playing with the animals, as this trainer learned, is not always advised, even though it is necessary to get the bull, and other animals, to do what is needed with the least amount of contact.  The animals are well trained and know where to go.

For information about the history of the rodeo, read EURWeb’s coverage of last year’s rodeo at https://www.eurweb.com/2017/08/the-history-of-the-rodeo-featuring-black-cowboy-bill-pickett/.

For show tickets, reviews, rodeo championship information or more information, go to http://www.billpickettrodeo.com/.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/uh-oh-cardi-bs-backing-out-of-bruno-mars-tour-creates-a-big-problem/

*Motherhood has made Cardi B realize that money isn’t everything and as a result, she has backed out of her highly lucrative tour plans with Bruno Mars. That’s all well and good for her, but for Bruno, it’s a problem. A BIG PROBLEM.

Needless to say, Bruno Mars, like everyone else, was shocked at the news. And being without an opening act, puts the upcoming tour in jeopardy, to say the least.

Sources connected to Bruno’s tour — slated to kick off in Sept. — told TMZ that he’s without an opener and, so far, there has been no replacement made for Cardi. Bruno’s people were supposedly burning up the phones Friday … starting conversations with reps from a number of musicians but nothing is close to being locked down.

Digging deeper, the report says Cardi’s decision to back out of the tour has created some issues … dancers were hired, costumes made and stage backdrops built.

As we reported, Cardi B realized se was in too deep and made the decision to tell Bruno she could do the tour because she “underestimated this whole mommy thing.” She explained to fans she needs more time to recover and isn’t ready to part with her daughter, Kulture, while she goes on the road.

Bruno Mars responded with a heartfelt message of support and understanding, adding …

“We love you Cardi and we will play Bodak Yellow every night in your honor.”

In other Cardi B news, The Bronx born  rapper just showed off her post-baby bod for the first time since she and Offset welcomed their daughter, Kulture, into the world on July 10. And it goes without question that Cardi is looking real good parked on the hood of her new Lamborghinian.

Speaking of which. It doesn’t hurt she and her hubby are also flaunting 2 hot new Lamborghinis. She captioned the pic above, “Blessed & Gifted … Official Lamb Owners.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/angela-rye-espys-tech-watch/

*This month, Reflektions, threw a party to promote their live video streaming app.

App founder, Dion Pouncil, held a sit down dinner at the infamous James Goldstein Estate in Beverly Hills to connect top leaders across multiple industries.

The pre Espy’s event labeled “The Syndicate” is described as an exclusive network of leaders across technology, sports, finance and entertainment.

Attendees included political advocate Angela Rye, comedian Torrei Hart and “Teen Mom” star Farrah Abrahams.

“It’s important for the culture because right now we can use some laughs and some light-hearted moments,” shared Rye. “We have a disaster in the White House so anytime we can come together to fellowship, share jokes and create memories is a great thing.”

The night included a cocktail reception followed by a panel discussion with seasoned talent and catered cuisine. NBA Players Delon Wright, Eric Mooreland and Isiah Taylor lead the sports panel conversation. Lo Toney, Dirk Ahlborn, Kobie Fuller and Chris Gray shared their expertise during the tech talk.

“When I was growing up I had AOL dial-up,” joked Rye. “Technology has shifted quite a bit and when you think about the wave of the future…the internet and technology rule the world so [coding courses and tech curriculum in primary school] should no longer be optional but required.”

Reflektions connects creators, viewers and influencers directly to their fans. Users can follow their favorite celebs, watch their videos and create their own video content to share. According to reps, there’s always something new and unexpected for viewers to explore and discover like courses from music to yoga, from web development to photography.

The social media app is only available for iOS (9.0 or later) devices, for more information download the app in the App Store.

The official sponsors for “The Syndicate” are World of Crypto Con, Trussi, Theragun, and Lemond.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/j-cole-announces-jaden-smith-earthgang-and-kill-edward-as-special-guests-on-kod-tour/

*LOS ANGELES –  J. Cole has announced actor, rapper, singer and songwriter Jaden Smith will join his highly anticipated North American KOD Tour as support, as well as Dreamville artist Earthgang and rapper Kill Edward. The new acts join previously announced special guest Young Thug for one of the can’t miss tours of the year, kicking off August 9 in Miami, FL.

Produced by Live Nation, the tour will also make stops in Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles and more, before wrapping in Boston, MA on October 10. See below for full itinerary.

Tickets for the KOD tour are on sale now to the general public at www.dreamville.com and LiveNation.com.

Released via Dreamville with distribution through Roc Nation/Interscope Records, KOD arrived on April 20 and debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, marking J. Cole’s fifth consecutive #1 on the chart. Along with scoring the biggest streaming week for an album so far in 2018, KOD has earned the third-biggest streaming week for an album in all of chart history.

Cole KOD Tour Dates:

Aug 9 – Miami, FL – AmericanAirlines Arena

Aug 11 – Tampa, FL – Amelia Arena+

Aug 12 – Atlanta, GA – Infinite Energy Center

Aug 14 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center

Aug 15 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center

Aug 17 – San Antonio, TX – AT&T Center

Aug 18  – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Aug 21 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Arena

Aug 22 – San Diego, CA – Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl SDSU

Aug 24 – Los Angeles, CA – Staples Center

Aug 25 – Los Angeles, CA – Staples Center+

Aug 29 – Oakland, CA – Oracle Arena*

Sep 2 – Boise, ID – Taco Bell Arena*

Sep 4 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center

Sep 5 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center

Sep 7 – Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena

Sep 8 – Salt Lake City, UT – Vivint Smart Home Arena

Sep 10 – Denver, CO – Pepsi Center

Sept 12 – Little Rock, AR – Verizon Arena

Sep 13 – Birmingham, AL – Legacy Arena at The BJCC

Sep 17 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena

Sep 18 – Kansas City, MO – Sprint Center

Sep 19 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center

Sep 21 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesar’s Arena

Sep 22 – Chicago, IL – Allstate Arena

Sep 23 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center

Sep 25 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center*

Sep 26 – Hartford, CT – XL Center

Sep 28 – University Park, PA – Bryce Jordan Center

Oct 1 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Oct 4 – Toronto – Air Canada Centre

Oct 5 – Montreal – Bell Centre*

Oct 6 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center

Oct 8 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Oct 10 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

*Jaden Smith not performing

+Earthgang not performing

The fifth studio album from J. Cole, KOD follows his critically acclaimed, platinum-selling 2016 album 4 Your Eyez Only. In the week ending April 26, KOD sold 397k equivalent album units, while its songs amassed 322 million audio streams. That makes J. Cole only the third artist in history to surpass 300 million audio streams in its debut week—an achievement that’s especially remarkable considering that KOD only contains 12 songs.

Retail: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole

Amazon: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/amazonmusicbuy

Apple: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/applemusic

Google: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/googleplay

ITunes: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/itunes

SoundCloud: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/soundcloud

Spotify: http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/spotify

Tidal:  http://smarturl.it/KODJCole/tidal

A North Carolina native, J. Cole was the first artist signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label, which released his official debut Cole World: The Sideline Story in 2011. To date, he’s received five Grammy Award nominations, including Best New Artist and Best Rap Album (for 2014’s 2014 Forest Hills Drive). Arriving in December 2016, 4 Your Eyez Only debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and gained acclaim from outlets like the New York Times (who praised it as “spartan but sumptuous, emotionally acute but plain-spoken…one of the year’s most finely drawn [albums]”). 4 Your Eyez Only was J. Cole’s first release for Dreamville, the label he launched in 2007. Like all of J. Cole’s first four albums, it’s certified platinum.

Young Thug is a rapper and fashion icon who defies borders. He has close to 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify and his projects are critically acclaimed (4 received scores of 8 or higher on Pitchfork). Thug recently released his mixtape Super Slimy with Future and scored his first Billboard No. 1 on Camila Cabello’s ‘Havana’.

For more about J. Cole:

https://soundcloud.com/j-cole

https://twitter.com/JColeNC

https://www.facebook.com/JColeMusic/

https://www.instagram.com/realcoleworld