Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/new-music-from-mary-j-blige-only-love-listen/

*As you no-doubt know, the last year or so has tumultuous for singer/actor Mary J. Blige. And that’s putting it mildly. However, that mind-boggling experience is behind her now and she’s ready to show the world that she may have been down, but she’s not out. She’s back!

And back she is with new, up-beat music and Miss Mary is sounding glorious on her new single, “Only Love.” With an big Philly Soul opening reminiscent of First Choice’s “Doctor Love,” the single gets listeners moving as Mary J preaches about the glory of love, as Soul Tracks put it, with which we totally agree.

“I’ve been in the studio working on new music and was excited to share a little bit with you all,” Mary shared on Social media. “I had a year of so many ups and downs and have come out the other side with a renewed spirit and a fresh perspective. I’m entering my next chapter with an open mind and heart. ONLY LOVE is where I am right now and I couldn’t keep it to myself any longer!!! #sisterlove #onlylove”

Well, THANK YOU for sharing Mary.  We’re looking forward to finding out what else is instore with your new project. In the meantime, enjoy “Only Love.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/despite-passing-of-papa-joe-janet-heads-to-new-orleans-for-essence-festival-video/

*If you’ve been paying attention, you know it’s been a pretty rough week for the Jackson clan because of the death of patriarch Joe Jackson at 89.

However, despite her father’s passing, for Janet Jackson, the show must go on! Literally. Janet will be headlining this weekend in New Orleans at the Essence Festival.

Naturally, there was concern from her fans and Essence Festival attendees that Janet would cancel her performance after Joe passed away last week. As has been reported, she and other family members were at his private funeral Monday in Glendale, California.

Sources close to Janet tell TMZ that she’s currently en route to New Orleans for the fest where she’s scheduled to perform Sunday. She also has other dates lined up through August on her State of the World tour too, which she’s also planning to fulfill.

Janet thanked her fans for their support on Wednesday in an Instagram video, where her baby son Issa also made a small off camera appearance.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/check-it-new-music-from-ciara-level-up-listen/

The new song is called “Level Up” and it comes after the birth of her daughter Sienna.

We hear the song was inspired by the controversy she caused earlier this year when she shared a sermon by pastor John W. Gray III in which he shamed single women for not carrying themselves like a wife. And if you’re wondering what the heck that means, you’re not alone.

Anyway, watch below and see if you can figure it out.

READ THIS: AZEALIA BANKS WISHES DEATH UPON WENDY WILLIAMS – D.L. HUGHLEY ON WHITE FOLKS SAYING THE N-WORD [VIDEO]

In other Ciara news, earlier we reported the singer/dancer has filed court papers against her ex Future – this time claiming that he’s becoming an absentee dad.

In new documents obtained by TMZ, the singer claims Future is missing too many scheduled visits with his three-year-old son, Future Jr.

Ciara says her ex only has made just 37 percent of his scheduled visits, and many of those are at the last minute. She also alleges that during the elder’s trips to his native Georgia with their son, the boy spends most of his time with elderly relatives, and she rarely gets to FaceTime her son to make sure he’s okay.

Ciara, who also has baby daughter Sienna Princess with husband Russell Wilson, further claims that little Future has health issues stemming from all the cross-country travel with his father, and that it’s causing him to have emotional breakdowns at school.

She’s seeking mediation with Future, so they can hammer out a better schedule for their son’s travel and for the sake of his health, TMZ reports.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/chris-spencer-and-andre-farr-host-sports-music-reunion-presented-by-carnival/

*The Sports & Music Reunion presented by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world’s largest leisure travel company, will take place on Sunday, July 8, 2018 at the award-winning hotel The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills. This exclusive event is invitation only; red carpet arrivals begin at 7 p.m. Pacific Time.

Hosted by Chris Spencer and Sports & Music Weekend creator Andre Farr, the Sports & Music Reunion marks the return of a classic—the Sports & Music Weekend—with a new bi-annual, multi-year series of special events that will bring together VIP athletes, entertainers and business leaders to party with a purpose.

Reuniting past Sports & Music Weekends hosts and celebrity attendees, The Sports & Music Reunion presented by Carnival Corp. will issue the prestigious Best By Farr awards to three prominent American business leaders:

·Arnold Donald, president & CEO of Carnival Corp., who will receive the CEO of the Year Award;

• Quintin Primo III, chairman & CEO of Capri Investment Group, a global real estate investment manager and investor in Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles, who will receive the Entrepreneur of the Year Award;
• Terry Crews, actor, artist, athlete and activist, who will receive the Leadership and Valor Award; and
• Danielle Frost, founder & CEO, A Frostchild Production, who will receive the Sports Event Producer of the Year

Andre Farr International is pleased to partner with IntraLink Global, a strategic marketing firm, and Carnival Corp., consistently recognized for its strong commitment to its customers, diversity and

community. “I am thrilled to produce the Sports & Music Reunion 2018, and honored to have such a tremendous corporate partner as Carnival Corp. Nobody blends all the aspects of these business verticals—sports, entertainment, travel and leisure—into a total lifestyle, or does it better than we do,” said Farr, CEO of Andre Farr International.

The Sports & Music Reunion will launch a multi-year series of exciting special events, including a soon to be announced annual Sports & Music Cruise with one of Carnival Corp.’s iconic cruise line brands. The company’s nine global cruise line brands include Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn. “Together with Carnival Corp. and our other important partners, we look forward to impacting lives, having fun and making this event bigger and better each year for many years to come,” said Farr.

“Carnival Corporation is honored to serve as presenting sponsor for the 2018 Sports & Music Reunion,” said Roger Frizzell, Carnival Corp.’s chief communications officer. “Congratulations to our CEO, Arnold Donald, and all the 2018 Best By Farr award winners on their much-deserved recognition and tremendous record of success. As the world’s leading cruise company, we are committed to providing extraordinary vacation experiences and consistently exceeding the expectations of over 12 million annual guests – all of which is made possible by our 120,000 passionate employees who are dedicated to building upon our legacy as a responsible corporate citizen. We are proud to support Andre Farr and his team on their important work and vision in launching The 2018 Sports & Music Reunion.”

About The Sports & Music Weekend

The Sport & Music Weekend (S&MW) is a proprietary event specifically designed to enhance, advance and educate our audience through programming that is entertaining yet also enlightening. Attended by athletes, entertainers and executive leaders, the weekend is exclusively sponsored by select corporations that embrace a high level of social responsibility and excellence in the marketplace. Content focuses on the principles of responsibility, accountability and execution, and inspires sports and entertainment industry influencers to maximize their platform and fully utilize their rights as citizens.

About Carnival Corporation & plc

Carnival Corporation & plc is the world’s largest leisure travel company and among the most profitable and financially strong in the cruise and vacation industries, with a portfolio of 10 dynamic brands that include nine of the world’s leading cruise lines. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio

features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard, as well as Fathom, the corporation’s immersion and enrichment experience brand.

Together, the corporation’s cruise lines operate 103 ships with 234,000 lower berths visiting over 700 ports around the world, with 18 new ships scheduled to be delivered between 2018 and 2023. Carnival Corporation & plc also operates Holland America Princess Alaska Tours, the leading tour company in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation & plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices.

In 2017, Fast Company recognized Carnival Corporation as being among the “Top 10 Most Innovative Companies” in both the design and travel categories. Fast Company specifically recognized Carnival Corporation for its work in developing OceanMedallion™, a high-tech wearable device that enables the world’s first interactive guest experience platform capable of transforming vacation travel into a highly personalized and elevated level of customized service.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/wework-hosts-chat-with-cannabis-expert-dr-metzler-exclusive-story-photos/

*Modern-day political voice, cultural and legal expert, Dr. Christopher Metzler looks to inform and educate people on the actual effects and uses for the cannabis plant in a talk hosted at WeWorks’ shared workspaces located inside the MOCA Pacific Design Center.  

The cannabis plant has moved from useful tool to life-destroying menace, to health aid and now has become a cash crop as many around the nation look to cash in on the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis.  Dr. Metzler has positioned himself and his practice as an expert on the subject.

Dr. Metzler obtained a Ph.D. in International Legal Philosophy from The University of Aberdeen.  A deep thinker, Dr. Metzler is the self-proclaimed ‘Catalyst in Chief’  who promotes to “Make America Nice Again” as a slogan.

This slogan adequately combines the two major philosophies behind Dr. Metzler’s movement: national politics and cannabis.  

For those not understanding cannabis culture in the United States, “Nice Cream” was the weed dealing ice cream truck from early Cheech and Chong Movies, and ‘Make America Great Again is President Trump’s campaign slogan.  The blending of the two really helps illustrate how cannabis has risen to become a national issue.

The event was hosted by Black Hollywood LIVE Executive Producer and Reelz Channel Television Host Derrial Christon who peppered Dr. Metzler with questions pertaining to the laws surrounding running a cannabis business including labeling, regulations and the limitations of the existing laws.  Following the interview, Dr. Metzler too questions from the audience.

Whose decision was it to make the cannabis plant illegal?  Who are the brave souls that fought to bring it to everyone?  Do you know if you live in one of the 30 states that have legalized some form of cannabis use?  Are you in one of the 8 states that have legalized its recreational use?

If you live in a state bordering California, just drive on down to the store with the green plus sign.  Inside you will find the answers you seek in the form of cookies, oils, and a multitude of leafy green plants, all with funny names. But what is next? How do you tell one product from another and how do you know what effects these products will have on you?

With products ranging from what looks like handmade brownies, candy packages that resemble common store-bought candies and going into prescription bottles topped with eye dropper applicators, and even air filtering systems, the cannabis dispensary is often confusing for the first time users.  So many new to the cannabis scene return with horror stories from over-consuming some cannabis products. In most claims, the vague language used in the labeling was a factor in their experience.

An example would be a consumer who buys a cookie to go to the zoo with her family on vacation.  The label says 1/25th of the cookie is a serving, but we all know how to eat a big delicious cookie with chocolate frosting on it!  Soon, her family is asking what is wrong with her, and she doesn’t seem to know.

One such person has taken up the cause of righting the problems with the legalization of cannabis.  Dr. Metzler has dedicated himself to bringing cannabis to the consumer just like lettuce or an apple inside your local grocery store.  Riding the hills of Cannabis legalization in over 30 states including California, Nevada, and Oregon, Dr. Metzler’s efforts are met with skepticism in the urban markets as these areas have seen many would be cannabis entrepreneurs barred from being granted a license while simultaneously the companies that have sprouted up in every neighborhood have gone virtually unchecked warranting new restrictions that further limit the amount of cannabis plant given free as well as the content, intensity and long-term effects of the THC infused food products known as edibles.  

What’s worse, the people who went to jail for selling weed to make money to feed their families, now are barred from selling it, now that it is legal.  Should they be granted leniency? Does not the legalization of an activity means that the former laws against it were wrong? Although this topic was not addressed in the talk, an upcoming bill was.

“The bill essentially will treat cannabis as an agricultural product,” claims Dr. Metzler.  “So cannabis will be the same as lettuce from the standpoint of federal law. Therefore, the Justice Department will have no jurisdiction to come in with any kind of regulation.”  

The talk also revolved around the laws governing how to grow cannabis.

“What is the part that people are missing?” asks Dr. Metzler. “The science says don’t treat it with pesticides.  When you start doing that, then that completely reverts back to where we are. So that is a critical component that folks have got to understand and look at that from now, rather than later.”  

“Your finding that many companies are buying up, through cryptocurrency, a number of dispensaries,” said Dr. Metzler.  “As much as Big Pharma is buying up all of this Cannabis stuff, what they are not telling you, is in fact through shell companies Big Pharma is actually in the same game.  They understand that it’s going to happen.”

“There’s an oversaturation of dispensaries and what you are going to see is regulation.  The regulation is going to be around quality control. And that’s the issue, quality control.  Allot of people who are doing it, are not doing it as they should.”

Regulation is inevitable, according to Dr. Metzer.  It basically boils down to this. A product bought at Company A should be equivalent to a product bought at Company B.  The label should say, in clear language, what the consumer is getting and what the expected effects will be. Currently, there is a lot of guesswork involved in comparing two or more products.  

The problem with edibles and regulation is that the labeling system is meaningless to the average consumer and just plainly ignored like white noise by the first time user.  I mean, what’s the difference between 10 grams and 250 grams inside an edible cookie? After all, everyone knows how to eat a cookie! And that translation of “How will this affect me?” into “I can’t do over “this” much,” is what inherently makes cannabis edibles and other food-imitating products dangerous.  Currently, companies are required to list the amount of THC in their product.  This information is meaningless if you don’t know your own personal tolerance levels. More research is necessary to get to the bottom of this issue.

Theoretically, improving the labeling system, and the number of overdoses will lower.  Now try organizing the many businessmen scampering to open up a cannabis business of some type, and organize a rating system that works.

Before a truly effective law can be placed on the ballot, an understanding of the effects of THC and TCB, a few of the active ingredients in cannabis, need to be obtained.  Could a simple swab of cheek cells and saliva be the next step to gaining this understanding?

The MelixGX Company is a DNA testing facility that claims that inside your DNA is the description of your high, and all they need are four samples to tell.  That inside your DNA are the signs that will tell their genetic engineers what types and amounts of cannabis would be effective on you to solve many problems including stress, anxiety, pain management and sleep disorders.

Some gathered questioned the true intentions of the company as DNA stands as the next frontier of science.  After all, your DNA can tell so much about a person and should be protected like your identity or your fingerprints.  The extrapolated thought is that if they can tell what kind of chemicals can affect me, why can’t they find out other things about me?  Could this information be used for nefarious purposes? Are they being compiled and sold later like our phone numbers are sold to creditors, scam artist and worse?

Stu Campbell, a representative of MelixGX, insists that only 35 of the millions of DNA markers are examined during their analysis, and the four separate Q-tips used are just in case one or more of the samples gets contaminated.  The rest of the information, including reject, unused or contaminated samples are destroyed.

For more information on Dr. Christopher Metzler go to http://drchristophermetzler.com/

Learn How Your Body Responds To Cannabis With The Help Of MelixMJ, go to https://www.melixgx.com/.

For more information about others who have cannabis-related companies go to https://www.eurweb.com/?s=cannabis.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/sheryl-lee-ralph-to-be-honored-at-15th-mcdonalds-365black-awards/

*(OAK BROOK, IL) —  In celebration of the 15th annual McDonald’s® 365Black® Awards, the company will honor celebrities and everyday heroes who make positive contributions to the community. To date, this year’s roster of remarkable honorees includes, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown.

Additionally, college junior Tishauna Wilson will be recognized alongside this lineup to receive the McDonald’s HBCU Forward $10,000 Scholarship, for her exceptional efforts to impact the community. Hosted for a second year by actress Essence Atkins, the awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, July 8, 2018, during the 24th annual ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca Cola® in New Orleans.

The annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards honor outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. McDonald’s 365Black Awards is known for attracting various top celebrity attendees, many of whom will grace the signature gold carpet prior to the ceremony. The luncheon will feature performances by award-winning R&B swooner Dave Hollister and gospel heavy-hitter Le’Andria Johnson.

“I am proud to be recognized by McDonald’s for my commitment to community. This dedication is something that was instilled in me by my parents. They taught me that If you don’t support your community or give back to your community – then community suffers. I have made it a lifelong commitment to educate, empower and bring awareness to the epidemic of HIV/AIDS, in an effort to inspire others to live a life of better health and well-being,” says Sheryl Lee Ralph.

“I am thrilled that McDonald’s will recognize women leaders who are courageous newsmakers and pillars of inspiration, who consistently empower others to follow their dreams,” said Kenny Mitchell, McDonald’s U.S. Vice President of Brand Marketing & Content. “They embody the essence of exceptional leaders that work every day to make a difference in the communities by moving Black culture forward.”

McDonald’s 365Black Awards launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, which celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round. Follow @365Black on Twitter for updates on the award ceremony and join the conversation using #365BlackAwards.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women who are independent employers, and set their own employment policies and practices, including pay and benefits for the people working in their restaurants.For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @365Black and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds. To learn more about the 365Black initiative, visit www.365Black.com.

source:
Vaughn Alvarez
Founder/CEO
vaughn@cr8agency.com
TW/IG: @4everVaughn

Kri Peck
Managing Partner
kri@cr8agency.com
TW/IG: @kri.yung

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/4th-of-july-fireworks-extravaganza-and-music-in-exposition-park/

*Los Angeles – Los Angeles City Councilmember Curren D. Price and The New 9^th, presented the annual 4^th of July Community Festival and Fireworks Show, Wednesday, July 4, 2018.

This extremely popular Independence Day Celebration was held on the South Lawn of Exposition Park. All attendees were able to enjoy and experience a day of engaging fun with delectable food, games and activities for all ages, followed by an awesome over-the-top fireworks extravaganza around 9:00pm.

Greg Johnson, Marketing and Promotion Director, 102.3FM Radio Free KJLH served as Master of Ceremonies and welcomed early arrivals to the celebration. The live entertainment got underway at 12noon, presented by The City of Los Angeles and KJLH Radio with a stellar line-up of R&B, Soul and Latin music.

This year’s celebration featured an eclectic world music showcase allowing attendees to visually and musically travel to various countries on the 4^th of July.

Our first trip found us in the mist of Carnival, or better yet, World Cup fever in Brazil. Guadalupae D’Lushus & Sambalushus Dancers visually captivating performance was one of many highlights throughout the afternoon. The leader sang and danced to the tunes “Brazilian Funk Ain’t Got No Color,” Mas Que Nada” by Sergio Mendes and concluded with “Conga” by Gloria Estefan.

prilFoolChild is a rising star in the making. The crowd and I were pleased to be vibing with her throughout her set, along with her back dancers Luis and Coco and DJ Marco Dash. Her set featured the songs “Mangos,” “Forever,” “Highs and Lows,” and “Hear Me.”

The show continued with another crowd favorite from Los Angeles. Iman Europe dazzled the crowd with her set of original tunes accompanied by DJ Wavy Baby on the ones and twos. Iman Europe were vibing on the tunes “Let’s Ride,” “Studio,” “Blessing,” and concluded her set with “Westside.”

Tropi Corrilo aspires to preserve Afro-Tropical music and culture by honoring their roots as they write and perform innovative music that will transcend those traditions into today’s times. Throughout their set they fused sounds of Colombia (Cumbia), Puerto Rico (Bomba), and rhythms of Cuba, Trinidad Y Tabagos and Dominican Republic. Their set featured the tunes “Oye Mi Ritmo,” “Ay Morena,” “Descarga de la Selva” which allowed everyone to stretch out. They continued with “Selva de Cemento,” “Negro Yo Soy” and concluded their set with “Capital.” The band is led by Richard Hererra-congas/vocals, Amber Morse-guitar/vocals, Hector Torres-guitar, Fermin Sifontes-keyboards, Fredirico Zuniga-bass and Caityn Moss on drum. Check out their latest CD Tropi Corillo de Los Angeles on Cambio Colores Records, and/or check them out in person performing around town.

Vocalist Maurice Smith rocked the stag beginning with “Let’s Go Crazy,” followed by “Do You Remember the Time,” and “She’s Always in my Head” to name a few.

Lady KeishaCali and Guy Black introduced characters from Teen’s Titans Go! To the Movies onstage to promote the upcoming release of the movie at the end of the month.

Singer, songwriter, guitarist Tyler Conti is another person deserving of greater recognition. He held his own during his time in the spotlight on the following tunes “Like the Way You Work It,” “I Want to Rock With you,” “Time Today” and concluded his set with What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye.

Conganas took the crowd and I on our final global journey musically. They opened their set with “Azucar,” “Scheherezada,” and Vampiro Tropical” to name a few. Conganas which means “with passion” features some of the most talented and experienced players in the Los Angeles music scene today. Band members not only perform with their own bands, they are also touring musicians with some of the greatest bands and musicians in the Latin Jazz, R&B, Pop ans Soul Music genres. The musicians on this gig consisted of Christian Moraga-leader, drums/percussions, from Chile, Fermin Sifontes-keyboards, from Cuba, Juan Carlos Portillo-bass, and Joel Nunes on Eiwi, from Cuba.

The stage was LIT before the first explosive fireworks was set off with a fantastic performance by Jade Novah followed by the headlining set by YOYO.

The 4^th of July Community Festival and Fireworks Show was sponsored by The Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Los Angeles, 102.3FM Radio Free KJLH, Exposition Park California, University of Southern California, USC Civic Engagement, Arrowhead Water and McDonald’s.

Ricky Richardson is a Southern California based writer, music reviewer and photographer. Contact him via: liltampared@netzero.net

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/r-kelly-addresses-sexual-misconduct-allegations-on-new-19-minute-track-i-admit-it-listen/

*R Kelly is apparently looking to cash in on his sexual misconduct allegations with a new 19-minute song that addresses the accusations made against him by multiple young women.

Taking to Instagram Live Sunday night, the crooner teased “I Admit It,” a trap-flavored, auto-tuned response in which he sings, “I done made some mistakes,” but goes on to deny allegations of sexual misconduct. “How they gon’ say I don’t respect these women, when all I’ve done is represent (30 years)/ Take my career and turn it upside down, ’cause you mad I’ve got some girlfriends (girlfriends),” he sings.

Kelly admits to being with “older and younger [ladies]” and also references the ongoing #MuteRKelly campaign.

“I admit I f**k with all the ladies, that’s both older and young ladies (ladies, yeah)/ But tell me how they call it pedophile because that s**t is crazy (crazy)/ You may have your opinions, entitled to your opinions (opinions)/ But really am I supposed to go to jail or lose my career because of your opinion/ Yeah, go ahead and stone me, point your finger at me (stone me, yeah, yeah)/ Turn the world against me, but only god can mute me (against me, mute me)”

He gets specific about allegations charged by the parents of Jocelyn Savage, who say Kelly began dating their 19-year-old daughter in 2016 and proceeded to cut off her communication with them. The parents accuse Kelly of brainwashing, grooming, and imprisoning their daughter and multiple other women at his homes in both Chicago and Georgia. For her part, Savage said she was “totally fine [and] happy where I’m at.”

“Said I’m abusing these women, what the f**k that’s some absurd s**t (what?)/ They’re brainwashed, really? (really)/ Kidnapped, really? (really)/ Can’t eat, really? (really)/ Real talk, that s**t sound silly (yeah)/ And if you really, really wanna know (know)/ Her father dropped her off at my show (show)/ And told this boy to put her on stage (yeah)/ I admit that she was over age (age)/ I admit that I was feelin’ her and I admit that she was feelin’ me (she was feelin’ me)/ I admit that that’s the s**t that comes with/ being a celebrity (celebrity)/ I ain’t chasing these ladies, no (no, no)/ These ladies are chasing me, yeah (chasing me)

“Now I’m only saying all this s**t, ’cause how they tryna play me, yeah (yeah, oh)/ I admit that this is no disrespect to the parents (no disrespect)/ But this is my advice to you ’cause I’m also a parent (parent)/ Don’t push your daughter in my face, and tell me that it’s okay (my face, okay)/ ‘Cause your agenda is to get paid, and get mad when it don’t go your way (yeah, go way)

Kelly continues: “What’s the definition of a cult?/ Whats the definition of a sex slave?/ Go to the dictionary, look it up/ Let me know I’ll be here waiting/ Now I admit that I got some girls that love me to pull they hair (they hair)/ Now I admit that they love me to talk dirty when I pull they hair (they hair)/ Some like me to spank ’em/ Some like to get branded/ And what some of these girls want, is too much for the radio station/ Look I’m just a man y’all (man y’all)/ Not a monster or beast (no, no)/ But I admit there are times when these girls so fine, they’ll chill with a n**ga for a week (oh, for a week).”

At another point in the song, Kelly acknowledges that he himself was the victim of sexual abuse at the age of 14, singing: “Now, I admit a family member touched me (touched me, touched me, touched me)/ From a child to the age 14, yeah/ While I laid asleep, took my virginity (sleep, gini’)”

Kelly also directly addresses Jim DeRogatis, the Chicago-based music journalist who has reported on Kelly’s alleged misconduct over the last two decades:

“To Jim DeRogatis, whatever your name is (whatever your name is)/ You been tryna destroy me for 25 whole years (25 whole years, yeah)/ Writin’ the same stories over and over against (stories, stories, yeah)/ Off my name, you done went and made yourself a career (a whole career)/ But guess what? I pray for you and family, and all my other enemies (prayed for you, enemies)/ I’m not gonna let y’all steal my joy, I’m just gon’ keep on doing me (my joy, doing me).”

Listen to Kelly’s song below, followed by a transcript of the lyrics:

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/the-hate-you-give-showcased-essence-festival-regina-hall-amandla-stenberg-and-more-photos/

*On Friday, July 6, 20^th Century FOX joined this year’s 2018 ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans to gear up for the upcoming release of the film, The Hate U Give, in theaters October 19. Fans filled the Center Stage as Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Russell Hornsby, Director George Tillman, Jr. and Author Angie Thomas gathered onstage for a special footage presentation.

In addition, the cast participated in a panel discussion about the film with Kosine, and Director George Tillman, Jr. participated in an-depth panel discussion alongside Regina King and Barry Jenkins.

Highlights of the day include:

• To kick-off the festival, fans enjoyed a special moment with Amandla Stenberg and Regina Hall at Coca-Cola Stage hosted by Fonzworth Bentley. Amandla and Regina guest judged an interactive game titled “For The Record” where festival goers battled head-to-head to guess artist/song title of mashup songs in musical categories such as: Essence 90s and Essence 2010-Today.

• In an exclusive moment at Essence Center Stage, fans had a chance to watch a special footage presentation followed by a Q&A hosted by Essence Entertainment Director, Cori Murray, with the cast, director and author. The crowd was thrilled to hear Angie talk about the title of the book T.H.U.G. and its connection to the hip hop community through the legendary Tupac Shakur.

• Later in the day Amandla, Regina and Russell headed over to the McDonalds stage for a panel discussion about the film with Kosine, co-host of BET’s man cave. Director George Tillman, Jr. also participated in an in-depth panel discussion, Black Behind the Lens: Shaping Our Stories From Script To Screen Panel alongside Regina King and Barry Jenkins on the Essence Empowerment stage. The discussion themed ‘Black Forward” highlighting the evolution of African-American culture.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/tekashi-6ix9ine-believes-robbery-was-an-inside-job-compares-incident-to-xxxtentacions-death-watch/

*A day after he was kidnapped, robbed, beaten and hospitalized, rapper Tekashi 6ixNine said he’s “fine” and that the incident was an “inside job.”

“It wasn’t no outside n—-s. It’s n—as that know how the king of New York moves,” the rapper said in an interview with DJ Akademiks Monday afternoon. “The only person that can get a Pharaoh in Egypt is the person who helped build the f—in’ kingdom, you know what I’m saying? The n—a that’s right next to him. The n—a that know who built that s**t, that got the blueprints.”

The MC (real name: Daniel Hernandez) said he’d suffered “concussion trauma to the head” after being knocked unconscious two times. “I’m fine,” he insisted.

Asked if he’d be more cautious about the people he keeps around him in the future, Hernandez replied, “My circle’s been short, it’s just that I opened it with the wrong n—-s.”

Hernandez said he willingly gave up an estimated $750,000 in jewelry, comparing the situation to the robbery that ended with XXXTentacion’s death last month. “I’m just happy to be alive,” he said. “I look at the X situation like, ‘That could have been me.’ That would have been the same situation if I didn’t give it up.”

Watch below:

After the interview, he posted a photo of XXXTentacion on Instagram and wrote: “As crazy as it sounds.. yesterday morning I had a feeling that it was my day to die. May GOD strike me dead if I’m lying. Everything happens for a reason. I know you was there. Nothing materialistic is more important then LIFE. I live to see another DAY. I get to see my daughter another day. No Hate Charge it to the streets.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/night-life-marshawn-lynch-and-new-ufc-champ-daniel-cormier-host-parties-at-chateau-nightclub-pics/

*Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop at Paris Las Vegas hosted celebrity athletes Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch on Friday night and fighting champion Daniel Cormier on Saturday night (07-07-18) in Las Vegas.

Lynch arrived at the rooftop nightclub late Friday night with a crew of friends and fans, dressed in light-washed jeans and a white shirt. The running back greeted the crowd from his lavish VIP booth as he partied alongside DJ Shadow ReD. Best known for leading his team to the football championship series, Lynch has earned the nickname “Beast Mode” for his powerful running style and consistent ability to run over defenders and break tackles. At the party, Chateau made a donation to the Fam1st Family Foundation, created by Lynch and Joshua Johnson, which provides mentors for underprivileged youth, focusing on the topics of education, literacy and self-esteem.

Cormier arrived at Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop following his heavyweight victory on Saturday night to host a knockout afterparty, lifting his championship belts as confetti rained down in celebration of his win and Chateau presented VIP bottle service and “GOAT” signs. The fighter partied late into the evening, sipping Veuve Clicquot as enthusiastic fans cheered him on and took photos.

ABOUT CHATEAU 
Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop is located at Paris Las Vegas, 3655 Las Vegas Boulevard South, directly above HEXX kitchen │ bar │ chocolate. The nightclub is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 10:30 p.m. to close. Chateau’s industry night, Chateau Wednesdays, offers complimentary admission to locals with ID on Wednesday nights. The club’s throwback night, Moon Tower Thursdays, feature hits from the 80s and 90s.  Locals receive free cover, excluding special events, and general admission starts $30. Dress code is strictly enforced. For table reservations and VIP bottle service, call 702.776.7777 or email reservations@chateaunightclublv.com. For general information and updates, call 702.776.7770, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/chateaulv.

source:
Sidney Stewart
sidney.stewart@wickedcreative.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/kimberlyn-m-engrams-star-powered-stage-play-unfaithful-on-tour/

*Lucy’s House Entertainment presents an All-Star celebrity line-up cast in The Unfaithful Stage-PlayTour. Unfaithful stage Tour features the legendary powerhouse vocalist Shirley Murdock, and in the leading male role, from Tyler Perry’s “If Loving You is Wrong,” Denzel Wells, also starring R&B singer and TV Reality Star (Love & Hip Hop) Teairra Mari and the legendary lead singer of the R&B group Silk, Gary ‘Lil G’ Jenkins.

Unfaithful

Unfaithful is an emotional, twist-turning, stage play written and directed by playwright Kimberlyn M. Engram that reveals the truth about the seemingly perfect marriage of Kenny and Rochelle Jones. The couple appears to live an idyllic life. While Rochelle owns a thriving production company, Kenny is a First Sergeant in the United States Army.

Within a year of being married, Kenny leaves for deployment leaving his wife to take full responsibility of his teenage daughter. While Kenny is deployed, Rochelle becomes suspicious of his behavior. Upon his return, Rochelle notices a change in her husband’s inconsistent behavior and the fact that’s he’s become extremely secretive about his whereabouts.

At the advice of friends, Rochelle decides that it’s time to “keep her eyes open.” Not knowing that his wife has already uncovered some truths about him, Kenny believes that things are working out just as he had planned and decides to present his wife with an unexpected surprise. However, much to his surprise, Kenny discovers that Rochelle has made some secret moves of her own. So, the Question is…”Who’s been playing who?”

For more information or to purchase Tickets please visit www.LucysHouseEntertainment.com.

The Unfaithful Stage Play Tour Dates:

July 13: Charlotte, NC (Knight Theater) 7pm
July 20: Portsmouth, VA (Willett Hall) 7:30p
July 22: Baltimore, MD (UMBC Event Center) 4pm
July 26: San Antonio, TX (Tobin Center) 7pm
July 27: Houston, TX (Stafford Centre) 7pm

About Kimberlyn M. Engram:

Kimberlyn E. Engram, CEO of Lucy’s House Entertainment is a retired Army veteran who served over 21 years of active duty in the United States Army. In October 2014, after retiring from the military, Kimberlyn was able to pursue her passion of writing full time and started her own company, Lucy’s House Entertainment, LLC. Since then Kimberlyn has written and directed several short plays including four major productions, Family Secrets & Curses, Dirty Laundry, Let God Make Him a Man and her most recent play Unfaithful. Kimberlyn is a survivor who has overcome various obstacles and used those adversities as fuel to create literary masterpieces.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/ving-rhames-shares-9-mm-in-the-face-experience-with-police-because-of-white-neighbor-listen/

*Actor Ving Rhames is in the news because of his role in Ton Cruise’s “Mission Impossible – Fallout” and as a result he was featured on “The Clay Cane Show” on SiriusXM Urban View. But it’s not what he had to say about the film that’s really getting folks’ attention. Nope, he told listeners that he pretty much had a near death experience when he found himself up close and person with a cop’s gun in his face … in his own home!

“I am sure you hear about all the reports of Black men being attacked by police,” Clay Cane said to Rhames. You are a big star, but how does racism show itself in your life?”

Rhames, 59, went on to tell his terrifying story of Sant Monica, California police pulling a 9-mm gun on him … again, in his own home, mind you.

“This happened this year. I am in my home, it was around 2:15 p.m. in the afternoon,” Rhames said. “I’m in my house, I’m in a pair of basketball shorts only. I have two English bulldog puppies. I hear a noise in my backyard but I’m thinking the puppies are just running around, and then I get a knock on the front door.”

Rhames continued: “I get up, I’m just in my basketball shorts — literally. I get up, I open the door and there is a red dot pointed at my face from a 9-mm. They say put up your hands, literally. I just walked and opened up the door. … Then they said open the front screen door. They say do it with one hand so then I have to do it with one hand. My hands are up and they have me outside.”

There were a group of police officers, a police dog and the captain of police, Rhames also said. Fortunately, the captain recognized Rhames, but not for the reason you might think. No, not because he’s a famous actor, but their children play sports against each other. In any event, the police claimed the Golden Globes winner’s neighbor called and said a “large black man” was breaking into a home.

” … Myself, the sergeant and one of the police officers went over to the house, which was across the street from my place, and the person denied it. So here I am in my own home, alone in some basketball shorts and just because someone called and said a large Black man is breaking [in,] when I opened up the wooden door, a 9-mm is pointed at me.”

Rhames realizes he is lucky that the captain recognized him.

“My problem is, as I said this to them, what if it was my son and he had a video game remote or something and you thought it was a gun?” Rhames said.

Listen to Rhames tell the full story in the link below:

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/symone-sanders-sheryl-lee-ralph-among-those-honored-at-15th-annual-mcdonalds-365black-awards/

*NEW ORLEANS – Several notable celebrities, community leaders and entertainers descended on the city of New Orleans once again to attend the 15^th Annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held today at the Ritz Carlton, New Orleans.

They were joined by attendees from across that nation who converged to recognize this year’s recipients of the distinguished awards, including popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown.

Additionally, college philanthropist Tishauna Wilson was recognized alongside this lineup to receive a $10,000 McDonald’s HBCU Forward Scholarship, facilitated by Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

McDonald’s 365Black Awards take place annually to honor outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. The program launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round. Held in conjunction with ESSENCE Festival™ presented by Coca-Cola®, the event was hosted by actress Essence Atkins.

R&B singer Dave Hollister gave a dynamic performance during the awards. Presenters included actor and comedian Lil Rel Howery, actor Larenz Tate, actress Bresha Webb, media personality Tai Beauchamp and McDonald’s Owner/Operator Tanya Holliday. Award-winning gospel artists Fred Hammond and JJ Hairston also made appearances.

TV personality and model Cynthia Bailey brought her large social media following along to the event, posting live from the ceremony. Other celebrity attendees included actor Lance Gross, award-winning talk show host, Loni Love and R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn, among others.

“It was a privilege to witness and take part in the celebration of our outstanding female honorees. Their accomplishments reflect the tenets of our 365Black platform,” said Kenny Mitchell, McDonald’s U.S. Vice President of Brand Marketing & Content. “Our 15 year-long partnership with ESSENCE and continuation of the 365Black Awards affirms our commitment to celebrating everyday people who are doing extraordinary things to positively move Black Forward.”

Those who were unable to attend the ceremony can follow @365Black on Twitter for commentary on the awards and join the conversation on all social platforms using #365BlackAwards.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women who are independent employers, and set their own employment policies and practices, including pay and benefits for the people working in their restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @365Black and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds. To learn more about the 365Black initiative, visit www.365Black.com.

source:
Steven Hunter, McDonald’s USA
steven.hunter@us.mcd.com

Bria Purdiman, Burrell Communications
bpurdiman@burrell.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/lee-bailey-publisher-of-eurweb-returns-to-ulmii-conference-oct-20-2018-at-the-celebrity-centre/

*The publisher of EURweb.com and former radio personality Lee “The Voice” Bailey returns to serve on the panel of the “Uplifting Minds II” (ULMII) entertainment conference. The 19^th annual “ULMII” event will be held Saturday, October 20, 2018 at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, California (5930 Franklin Avenue, 90028) from 1 – 5 p.m.

The ULMII conference is free and open to the public and offers an entertainment business panel discussion and a national talent showcase competition. Former ULMII winners and professional artists will open the entertainment portion of the event and 10 aspiring acts will compete (vocal, songwriting, dance and acting) for over $15,000 valued in prizes to end the event.

Bailey has served on the panel for the national conference in Los Angeles for 15 years, missing only a few dates. ULMII” was founded in Baltimore in 1999 as a way to inspire young artists and expanded to Houston, Atlanta and Los Angeles. It currently hosts only the Baltimore and Los Angeles events. Lee’s website EURweb.com is the event’s online media partner and it receives over a million hits a week from it’s over 200,000 weekly visitors.

The man with “The Voice” is an Air Force veteran who, because of that voice, was asked to DJ on KPOP in Sacramento. He went on to syndicate his “Radioscope” show establishing him a position in history as one of the first black radio jocks to be nationally syndicated. His “Radioscope” show aired on over 40 stations across the country. Before online magazines were the norm Bailey expanded his black entertainment news to his website EURweb.com in 1997 – the first and most read online source for black entertainment news. He also has a EURweb newsletter distributed via email daily to an estimated 100,000 readers. His entertainment news is also available via mobile devices and on TransiTV where bus/train riders in Los Angeles, Chicago, Orlando, Milwaukee and Atlanta can see the latest black entertainment news on TV monitors.

The winners of the “ULMII” talent competition on Saturday October 20^th at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood will received the “ULMII Best Artist” award;  public relations or business strategy from Strategist Eunice Moseley, MS, M.B.A. (www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com/FreelanceAssociates.html); entertainment business consult from entertainment business mogul Paul Gardner, II (www.TheGardnerLawGroup.com); music track and studio time from producer/songwriter V.I.P. (www.DustDemAFF.com); vocal and acting coaching from professional singer/actress and vocal coach Nadiyah Kareem (Superstar Enter.); make-up application/stylist consult from Jeneanne Collins (Rebellious Beauty); commercial photo shoot from commercial photographer Ty Moore (www.IAmSharpEye.com); song placement on soundtrack from award winning actor/filmmaker Anthony Michael Hobbs (www.ImaginationLunchbox.com), and music business legal documents from attorney Richard Jefferson (www.LawyersRock.com).

To inquire about talent and panel availability call 562-424-3836, or email FreeAssocInc3@aol or info@ThePulseofEntertainment.com or contact us at www.UpliftingMinds2.com.

# # #

Freelance Associates
Long Beach, CA 90807
562-424-3836
FreeAssocInc3@aol.com
www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com/FreelanceAssociates.html

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/eta-phi-beta-sorority-to-celebrate-33rd-convention-in-memphis/

*The 33rd Biennial National Convention, of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated will convene in Memphis, Tennessee July 23-27, 2018 at the Hilton Memphis. Members throughout the United States and the Virgin Islands will gather at the Convention for the purpose of leadership development, discussion of pertinent issues, to celebrate achievements and to strategically plan for the future of the Sorority.

The theme of this year’s Convention is “Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated: Making a Difference in a Changing Society.” The Keynote Speaker at the Opening Ceremony will be The Honorable Earnestine Hunt Dorse, Municipal Court Judge, Memphis, Tennessee.

Sorority

Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is a business and professional women’s organization that was founded in 1942 by eleven visionary women that attended Lewis Business College in Detroit, Michigan. The year 2017 marked the 75th Anniversary of Eta Phi Beta. Throughout the year, we celebrated the legacy of our Noble Founders and 75 years of community service.

Eta Phi Beta, Incorporated is family oriented. The National Council of SHADS are the husbands of the members and the Youth Group consists of children ages 6-18 years of age. The SHADs and Youth Group will hold their conventions concurrently with the National Convention.

The public is invited to join them for the public events during the convention. For more details, visit www.etaphibetasorority.com

About the Eta Phi Beta

Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a non-profit business and professional women’s organization, founded in 1942 by eleven women who attended Lewis Business College in Detroit, Michigan.  The vision of these eleven visionary Founders was to promote higher scholastic standards, personal growth, career awareness, and to provide opportunities for community service.  Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was incorporated in 1943.

The eleven Founders were Ivy Burt Banks, Earline Carter, Katherine Douglas, Mae Edwards Curry, Merry Green Hubbard, Ethel Madison, Ann Porter, Lena Reed, Mattie Rankin, Atheline Shelton Graham, and Dorothy Sylvers Brown.

The purpose of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is to promote and develop closer fellowship between business and professional women and to work for their welfare; to obtain for women the opportunity for the highest standards in all business fields; to aid high school graduates by awarding scholarships to further their education in business and professional fields; and to contribute financially to local and national charities and to promote and assist in programs designated for improving the well-being of developmentally disabled citizens.

For almost 75 years, Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has provided services to improve the quality of life of individuals in many communities throughout the United States and the Virgin Islands.  All programs and projects are consistent with our motto, “Not For Ourselves, But For Others”.

Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is also an affiliate organization of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW).  Eta Phi Beta Sorority supports the NCNW through its involvement at the National level and through the community-based sections. The National President of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is a member of the NCNW Board of Directors.

source
Dr. Lillie A. Robinson, EdD
lillierob51@gmail.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/the-mokelly-show-george-zimmerman-charged-george-jefferson-coming-back-listen/

The Mo’Kelly Show on iHeartRadio and KFIAM640 in Los Angeles weighed in on the recent Trump hate-storm of tweets and the possible return of Norman Lear shows such as ‘Good Times’ and ‘The Jeffersons’ to television.  The shows were classics in the 1970s…but do we need to see them again in the 21st century?

And of course, Mo’ had a few words to say on the recent charges filed against social pariah George Zimmerman on the eve of the new Trayvon Martin documentary.  Check it out!

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/michael-henderson-gives-concertgoers-a-present-on-his-birthday-eur-exclusive/

*What better way to celebrate your birthday than to be around those that love you?  Maybe that is what Michael Henderson had in mind when he decided to celebrate his 67^th birthday performing at the Catalina Jazz Bar and Grill in Hollywood on July 7.

It was his third time performing there in less than a year; however, based on audience response, you would have thought they hadn’t seen him in years, if ever.  I think it’s fair to say the audience loved him.  Instead of fans giving him presents, which by the way, some did, he brought presents, in the form of surprise guests and good music.

Prolific composer, arranger, producer and pianist Sylvester Rivers, who has been involved with some of the biggest names in the music business, was the MC for the evening, a switch from the previous two times Michael performed at the Catalina.

Rena Scott who collaborated with Michael to create, “Take Me, I’m Yours,” was once again on hand for the festivities and was first up.  She did not disappoint; she never does.  Her voice was as clear and crisp as always, as she and Michael performed their signature duet, as well as others songs.

In a phone interview with EURweb’sleader, Lee Bailey, Michael made mention of Lamont Dozier’s, “Why Can’t We Be Lovers” being performed and said he was calling Lamont that day to confirm.  Imagine my disappointment when he introduced Lamont Dozier Jr. as the one to perform and not the elder Dozier.  My disappointment was very short-lived because Lamont Dozier Jr can sing.  He is the real deal and every bit as talented as his father.  I was anything but disappointed at the apparent bait and switch. I enjoyed his performance so much that I inquired if he was equally as adept at performing another Lamont Dozier Sr. song, “Fish Ain’tBitin.”

In the telephone interview, Michael mentioned he was going to mix things up, meaning not do the same things that were done at his two previous Catalina Jazz Club appearances.  Some things were different for sure, but they were things I was actually looking forward to, like seeing Ray Parker Jr. again and watching Michael and Rena move through the audience.  I got over it and the barrage of Dramatics hits that were performed helped. Michael has had a hand in more Dramatics hits than I can name and he performed several of them, including “Hey You, Get Off My Mountain” “In the Rain,” “What You See is What You Get,” “Get Up, Get Down”and “Be My Girl.” Michael also performed a medley of Prince’s “1999,” Rick James’ “You and I,” Jr. Walker and the All-Stars, “Shotgun” which was a change and performed very nicely.

Speaking of switching things up, how about Michael had the audience singing.  He told us to sing, “Betcha by Golly Wow.”  He started us off and we did the rest.  I guess he was right when he told Lee, “Everyone is going to sing that night.”  Phyllis Hyman’s 69^th birthday would have been on July 6.  We celebrated her birthday by butchering her song.  LOL!  Actually, we didn’t sound half bad; just ask Michael or actress Roz Ryan (Amelia from “Amen”), who was also on hand to celebrate her birthday.

Of course Michael sang his hits, including “Wide Receiver,” with modified lyrics, “Sometimes you get your nut; sometimes you don’t.” LOL!  The audience got a kick out of that.  “At the Concert” and “In the Nighttime” seemed to be audience favorites, but then again, the reaction was good on all of the songs Michael performed.  Like I said, the audience loved him.  I don’t believe there was anyone who could think they didn’t get their money’s worth. I have to admit that although I enjoyed the show, I wasn’t blown away; however, that has more to do with the fact that I have seen Michael perform three times in less than a year, with no new music, than it has to do with his performance, as evidenced by the audience reaction.  He was very entertaining and knows how to put on a show.  If you are in one of the cities on his upcoming performing radar (Washinton D.C. or Cleveland), go check Michael out and report back to me.

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.