Constraints on the achievements of Black people date back to Europeans’ planned & prolonged brutality against the polymaths of Africa. In music, these lines were marked by genres as white executives explored ways to market – and inherently exploit – Black artists. Followers, committees, and the like commonly surmise Black people belong in Rhythm and Blues or Rap only. But what happens to the girls who cannot be categorized? Or dare to not exclusively become hip-hop or soul superstars?
Read MoreWith undeniable vocal talent and a flawless discography, Jazmine Sullivan is in a league of her own. So why does the public refuse to give this legendary powerhouse the flowers she so rightfully deserves?
Read MoreHailing from Miami, FL, the world was not ready for the arrival of JT, born Jatavia Johnson, and Yung Miami, born Caresha Brownlee. The rap duo touts female empowerment with tracks that speak to young women all over the world about playing the players. ‘City Girls The Series’ was released ahead of their highly-anticipated second album City on Lock to lets fans into their world as they navigate life in the public eye.
Read MoreFrom the demise of our beloved stars like Kobe Bryant and Pop Smoke to a mysteriously fatal virus that has somehow escaped the MAIN target in office, 2020 is shaping up to be 365 days of utter mayhem. These last five months have been the most unsettling year in most of our lives. Millions of Americans have been forced into their homes with no source of income and no clear end date. Processing this pandemic has been a rollercoaster.
Read MoreAs the days go by, more and more black female artists disappear from the public eye – some even giving up on their original passion. Why is that? The influx of backlash they receive for simply being themselves. You would think this level of personability would be appreciated and praised as these women try to garner connections with supporters – but they are instead bullied and harassed. Newsflash: black female artists are not here for you to police their bodies, appearances, experiences, or thoughts. Let them live their lives and enjoy (or don’t) the music.
Read MoreI created this platform after years of feeling like I was forced to be silent. At 12 years old I was already being told that I was too much, that I should be quiet. If I had a dollar for every time I was told to “calm down” because my passion was confused for aggression, I could cover my entire $40,000 bill at Clark Atlanta University.
Read MoreSZA carried R&B on her back in 2017 and started a whole new wave that opened the door for so many others. Put some respect on her name.
Read MoreIn general, 2019 was a lackluster year in music. When I tried to search for my favorite projects, or even projects that I cared to listen to frequently from 2019, it was seemingly impossible. Interestingly enough, they were all R&B albums. Multiple R&B stars saw success this year in terms of worldwide acclaim such as Summer Walker (Over It) and Tori Lanez (Chixtape 5). But this is not accurately represented at all in any of this year’s award shows so far, which to some are the holy grails in music and reflect the genre’s high points. Why is that? I ask myself the same question every day. Here are some of the best R&B gems of 2019 that I feel deserve more attention and are even better than some of the albums my timeline hyped. You are welcome in advance.
Read MoreBorn on January 16, 1979 in Brooklyn, Aaliyah Dana Haughton was destined for greatness. Her family moved to Detroit when she was five. Singing with her mother soon turned into voice lessons at age nine, which later would be used as she performed at weddings, churches, and school productions. Her passion for music truly blossomed when she found her love in acting in elementary school.
Read MoreI recently watched the sequel to LifeTime’s Suriving R. Kelly, Surviving R. Kelly- Part II: The Reckoning. The five-part documentary serves as a recap for a few of the women featured in the first season, while introducing us to new victims such as Lanita Carter and Tiffany Hawkins. It also gives viewers a rundown of the moments leading up to the documentaries’ premiere, the backlash following its’ release, and the movement’s progress. While watching all of this, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of frustration, uncomfortability, and disgust. Which inspired me to re-watch the first season and write this. There are so many layers to this story, so bear with me.
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