SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY: Red Carpet Recap

NFL STARS SHINE BRIGHT: SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION HOSTED BY CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER AND TICHINA ARNOLD HONORS C.J. STROUD, DAMAR HAMLIN, MARKQUESE BELL, NATE BURLESON, AND ESSENCE GLASS CEILING BREAKER AWARDEES DASHA SMITH, KIMBERLY FIELDS, AND SANDRA DOUGLASS MORGAN.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration.

JUST BELIEVE: THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY SCORES BIG WITH 25 YEARS OF STAR POWER

THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY prepares to illuminate screens nationwide for its Silver Anniversary broadcast as a special one-hour program on CBS Television Network* on Saturday night, February 10, at 8 pm ET/7C.

Taped in front of a live audience on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Pearl Concert Theater, Palms Casino Resort during Super Bowl LVIII week, this milestone event is hosted by the dynamic duo of Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, stars of the CBS hit series “THE NEIGHBORHOOD.” Anchored in the theme of “Just Believe,” the show features performances from artists T-Pain, Rachel Platten, and Mickey Guyton, who join previously announced acts Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, and The Players Choir are in the blockbuster talent lineup. Resonating with faith, football, and the belief that every obstacle can be transformed into an opportunity for greatness, this celebration of music is also a testament to the power of collaboration between art and corporate goodwill. A diverse slate of corporate and philanthropic partners have joined the broadcast, adding to its depth and meaning with a series of uniquely sponsored segments.

Crown Royal, a brand rooted in generosity, will present the “Lifetime of Inspiration” award to former partner, NFL player, CBS Mornings Co-Host and Host of NFL Today, Nate Burleson. Crown Royal will make a meaningful donation of $25,000 from The Crown Royal Generosity Fund to an organization personally selected by Mr. Burleson. Nate, a symbol of inspiration on and off the field, will receive this prestigious honor presented by football legend Fred Taylor. Amazon Prime steps forward to present the “New Beginnings” spotlight, honoring Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin. His story of resilience and family triumph will be shared in a powerful segment, reflecting the spirit of overcoming obstacles and finding new beginnings. C.J. Stroud, a rising star from the Houston Texans, will be honored with the esteemed “Faith in Action” Award. This recognition underscores his commitment to philanthropy and community service through the C.J. Stroud Foundation, which has become a force for meaningful change and exemplifies the profound impact athletes can have in creating a better world.

P&G brands play a significant role in shaping the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY experience. Leading the way is Febreze, bringing its unique touch to the celebration with an electrifying performance by the legendary Kirk Franklin and the all-NFL Players Choir, featuring the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Band Drumline. In addition, Febreze proudly collaborates with the talented Howard University alumna designer, Rachel Motley, to create custom-designed cardigans that add a stylish and distinctive flair to the musical experience, ensuring that the performers are “Fresh as Febreze” while on stage. Mielle and King C. Gillette will host a beauty and grooming lounge to get all of the honorees and performers ready for their big moment.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will introduce the inaugural “ESSENCE Glass Ceiling Breaker Award presented by Mielle.” This award, as part of ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, recognizes outstanding women of color who have shattered barriers in the NFL and will be introduced by Caroline Wanga, ESSENCE Ventures President & Chief Executive Officer. Monique Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mielle, will present this prestigious award to honorees Dasha Smith and Kimberly Fields from the NFL, and Sandra Douglas of the Las Vegas Raiders. These women, excelling in the field of sports, have paved the way for many others. The award presentation is a momentous highlight, continuing Mielle’s focus on inclusion and empowerment. In addition to music, the broadcast highlights partnerships, shared values, and a commitment to uplifting communities. Lexus brings its ethos of blending performance and soulful experiences, becoming a resonant voice in the celebration. Comforting Peanut Butter M&M’s will sponsor the “HBCU Spotlight,” shining a light on Markquese Bell, a Dallas Cowboys star and HBCU graduate of FAMU. Vibrant Emotional Health and former NFL player Brandon Marshall, CEO of I Am Athlete, share a powerful message on mental fitness with a call-to-action urging viewers to dial 988 if experiencing mental health challenges. The Huntsman Family Foundation, a Utah-based nonprofit, stands up for mental wellness and eradicating stigma, aligning its mission with a dedicated on-stage moment and message of hope presented by James Brown, veteran sportscaster and host of NFL Today.

In this collective moment, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration amplifies a message of compassion and support. Disney helped Atlanta Falcons player Calais Campbell and his non-profit Charles Richard Campbell Foundation to create a magical experience, gifting a deserving family with a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Disney World. Palms Casino Resort serves as the sponsor for red-carpet arrivals, adding an extra layer of glamour to the festivities. PlayersTV and Lionsgate will also play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the evening, contributing to the tapestry of the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY. For a quarter-century, THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith, and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII-sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.

Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th Anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com, or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration. Follow us @superbowlsoulful for updates and information. THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director. *Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs.

About Super Bowl Soulful Celebration

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), was founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration. For more information and updates, visit SuperBowlSoulful.com or follow @superbowlsoulful on social media platforms.

Fashion Icon Tameka Foster Raymond: From Heartache to Triumph, Empowering Mothers and Women 

Get ready to be blown away by the legendary fashion icon Tameka Foster Raymond as she re-enters the spotlight armed with her groundbreaking memoir.
“Here I Stand . . . in a Beautiful State” is a deeply compelling narrative that not only unveils Tameka’s remarkable journey from heartache to triumph but also serves as a beacon of hope for mothers and women seeking to overcome past traumas. In her memoir, Tameka Foster Raymond peels back the curtain on a world where misconceptions give way to truth, where fashion transcends boundaries, and where she shares personal encounters with the likes of Lauryn Hill, along with styling anecdotes and humorous social media escapades.
But that’s just the beginning. Tameka courageously opens up about her intimate healing journey, including the heartbreaking loss of her son Kile and the excruciating custody battle with ex-husband Usher Raymond IV. Her story showcases how growth can emerge from the depths of pain, proving the indomitable power of resilience. For her book’s re-launch, Tameka Foster Raymond is teaming up with RIAA Diamond Certified Music Producer, Drumma Boy, to create an electrifying Audible version. Brace yourselves for a dynamic audio experience that will deeply resonate with your audience, blending storytelling and music into a unique fusion.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of Tameka Foster Raymond’s incredible journey from heartache to triumph. Get ready for an extraordinary experience that will leave your audience inspired and enthralled.

The Most Common Mental Health Disorders

1 in 8 people are believed to be currently living with a mental health disorder. While there are many different forms of mental health disorders, some are much more common than others. Below are some of the most common forms of mental health disorders, how to spot the symptoms and how to treat them.

Featured Photo from Worth

Generalised anxiety disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is possibly the most common mental health disorder. It is a form of anxiety that is affected by lots of different triggers as opposed to just one thing. 

People with GAD tend to worry a lot, and these worries can end up becoming draining and debilitating. It’s possible that you have GAD if:

  • You get anxious about many different tasks and situations and feel constantly on edge
  • Anxious thoughts are keeping you up at night and distracting you from tasks during the day
  • Your worrying is having a negative impact on relationships, work or school

GAD symptoms can range in severity from mild persistent worrying to full-blown panic attacks. In all cases, it’s important to do something about it in order to stop it getting worse. It’s worth looking into professional treatment for anxiety if symptoms are severe. If symptoms are mild, you may be able to explore your own forms of anxiety relief such as breathing exercises, listening to music or taking herbal remedies. Do not turn to alcohol or drugs in order to treat GAD.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

PTSD is another type of anxiety. It is triggered by a traumatic event which could range from childbirth to being a victim of a violent crime. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who experience a traumatic event develop PTSD. 

Some of the symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Constant nightmares and flashbacks of the traumatic event that keep you up at night and distract you during the day
  • A fear of certain situations or places that is detrimental to everyday life (such as not wanting to get into a car after a road accident)
  • Feelings of isolation or guilt that cause you to become morose and irritable

There are many treatments for PTSD that you can explore. Some people are prescribed antidepressants, while therapy is recommended for others. PTSD is often at its worst when the event is still fresh in one’s mind, but will usually gradually fade over time. However, for some people it can get worse over time – this is when you know that you need to get professional support. Solutions like support groups can be very beneficial. 

Depression

Depression is not just sadness. It is a sense of resentment and hopelessness that lasts weeks or months. Depression is often triggered by certain events, however, those who have a history of it or family with depression may be prone to more random episodes. 

You may have depression if:

  • You are losing interest in things that once brought you joy and do not feel hopeful about anything
  • You feel constantly tired and have no urge to look after yourself
  • You have lost your appetite and your sex drive
  • You waste away the day sleeping or find it difficult to sleep at all due to depressed thoughts

Like other mental illnesses, depression can vary in severity. Some people just feel constantly dispirited, while others can feel there is no point in living at all – which can lead to suicidal thoughts. While you should seek treatment in all cases, it’s particularly important to reach out if you are thinking of harming yourself. There are many ways to overcome depression including lifestyle changes (such as developing a strict routine and exercising), antidepressants, therapy and socialising with people whose company you genuinely enjoy.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects many people and involves obsessive thoughts and behaviours that end up negatively affecting everyday life. Unlike GAD, people with OCD often carry out specific rituals that seem excessive or nonsensical to other people. This could include routinely cleaning things that are already clean, checking that a door is locked multiple times every night or avoiding stepping on cracks in the pavement.

Not all obsessive behaviours are a problem. However, OCD is worth treating if:

  • You find yourself missing appointments or are late to work/school due to lengthy OCD rituals
  • Your relationships become strained because of your obsessive thoughts and behaviours
  • Your physical health is being affected (for example, you’ve developed dermatitis from constantly cleaning your hands)

Therapy is the best way to treat OCD. Using professionally recommended techniques you can help to overcome obsessive thoughts and behaviours. 

Covergirl Alexis Skyy: Journey to Transformation, Healing, and Success

Pivoting from a cast member of Love and Hip-Hop to the emerging multifaceted businesswoman gracing our timelines today, Alexis Skyy literally started her spiritual transformation right before our eyes. Accrediting her daughter with being a major influence for her holistic transformation, she has intuitively created the haircare line, The Hair Pot as an initial generational wealth builder for her firstborn Alaiya Grace.

Not only is Alexis curating ventures in hair care, real estate investment, and fashion, but the highlight of her journey is she is bringing other women along for the ride to spiritual healing. Creating safe, digital, and in-person spaces for trauma survivors to speak openly of their past experiences, Alexis is utilizing her platform of over 5 million followers to be an inspiration to women young and old.

Jordin Sparks Carries Warmies While Wearing Losano

Singer and actress Jordin Sparks were spotted wearing a cozy Losano set while holding on to her son’s Dinosaur Warmies ($29.99, https://warmies.com/) and Baggallini All Day Backpack in Faux Shearling ($125, https://www.baggallini.com).

The American Idol and Dancing With the Stars alum accessorized Losano’s Monterey Hoodie ($179) and Monterey Joggers ($179, www.losano.com) with Paradigm’s Russell in Rust sunnies ($145, https://paradigmeyewear.com/) and Astrid & Miyu’s Crystal Hinge Hoops ($105, www.astridandmiyu.com).

Mariah Carey Shares Photo With Daughter in NYC

Mariah Carey shares a photo with her daughter Monroe as they were in NYC on Saturday, October 22nd, 2022.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mariah Carey via Twitter
About Mariah Carey
MARIAH CAREY is an author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, producer and multiple award-winning artist and songwriter. She is the best-selling female artist of all time with more than 200 million albums sold to-date and 19 Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles (18 of which are self-penned) – more than any solo artist in history. With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting, and producing talent, Carey is truly the template of the modern pop performance. Mariah is also an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards, numerous American Music Awards, three Guinness World Record titles, both Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” and “Icon” awards, the World Music Award for “World’s Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium,” the Ivor Novello Award for “PRS for Music Special International Award,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” for her outstanding achievements in songwriting, to name a few.                                                        

Carey’s cultural impact has transcended the music industry to leave an indelible imprint upon the world at large. In 2009, Carey was recognized with the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Palm Spring International Film Festival for her critically acclaimed role in Lee Daniels’ “Precious.” A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has selflessly donated her time and energy to a range of philanthropic causes near to her heart including Save the Music, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, World Hunger Relief, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, among many others. A tremendous supporter of children’s charities, both domestic and international, Carey founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund, a retreat for inner city children to explore career development. In 2020, Mariah’s riveting memoir The Meaning of Mariah Carey was recognized as a New York Times #1 bestseller upon release. In 2021 she announced the launch of her foray into the world of spirits with Black Irish – an Irish cream with a name that serves as a playful nod to her family heritage.

Access205 Magic City Classic Entertainment Guide 2022

The Magic City Classic is the largest historically black college and university (HBCU) football game in the country.

Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University play in the game annually at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama, and the winner could potentially earn a spot in the SWAC.

It’s not too late to purchase tickets (click on the images) and view the guide below.

Access205 Entertainment Guide:

1.  BBQ and Blues Festival with The Manhattans
Sunday, October 23th from 12 pm – 4 pm

2.  Stop The Violence featuring Master P
Tuesday, October 25th starting at 6 pm

3.  Alumni Block Party
Wednesday, October 26th, 7 pm – 10 pm

4.  2022 IGNITE Empowerment Summit (click on the image)
Tuesday, October 25th from 8 am – 3 pm

5.  Stokley Magic City Classic Tailgate Festival
Thursday, October 27th; Gates Open at 4 pm | Event Starts at 6 pm

6.  Magic City Classic Giveaway Wednesdays
** Online **

7.  The Ultimate King of Pop Experience
Thursday, October 27th Doors Open at 6 pm | Starts at 7 pm

8.  Magic City Classic Afrobeats Party by AfroLuzionz (click on the image)
Saturday, October 29th at 10:30 p.m. – Sunday, October 30th at 4 pm

9.  Magic City Classic Weekend “5th Annual” Friday Night Soiree at The Harbert (click on the image)
Friday, October 28th at 9 pm – Saturday, October 29th at 2:30 am

10.  Rickey Smiley Morning Show Live
Thursday, October 27th from 5 am – 9 am

11.  Welcome to Birmingham The Opening Ceremony (click on the image)
Thursday, October 27th from 8:30 pm to 12 am

12.  Thursday Night Live Karaoke Showcase (click on the image)
Thursday, October 27th from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

13. The Classic Kid Capri Party (click on the image)
Friday, October 28th from 9 pm – 2 am

14.  Sunshine and Wine
Friday, October 28th, 2 pm – 7 pm

15.  11th Annual Battle of The Choirs
Wednesday, 26th Doors Open at 6 pm

16.  Stardome Featuring:  Rod Man (click on the image)
Friday, October 28 – Saturday, October 30 | Doors Open at 5:45 pm, Show Starts at 7 pm

17.  Behind The Mask
Wednesday, October 26th Doors Open at 5 pm | Show Starts at 6 pm

18.  Magic City Classic Post-Game Concert
Saturday, October 29th

19.  McDonald’s MAGIC CITY CLASSIC 2022 (click on the image)
Tailgate starts at 10 am – 2 pm | Game begins at 2:30 pm

Additional Events for The Season:

Music Fest:  Turkey Day Classic 2022
Wednesday, November 23rd
Doors Open at 7 pm | Showtime at 8 pm

Access205, LLC. is a social media advertising and email blast company that specializes in designing and managing e-mail blast campaigns for events and businesses in Bham, AL. With our email blast campaigns and flyer distribution, your business and/ or events will receive great exposure and experience an increase among current customers and potential customers.

Kimberly West Agency™ is a boutique public relations firm specializing in brand design, image consulting, influencer marketing, media relations, social media planning, and special events planning.

Collaborative Post

Rapper Ye, Formerly Known As Kanye West Interview with ABC News Live

In case you missed it, this morning on “Good Morning America,” a portion of ABC News Live Prime Anchor Linsey Davis’ interview with Ye aired. In the clip, Ye discussed his social media use, co-parenting and more.

Watch more on ABC News Live tonight at 7 p.m. ET and tonight on “Nightline.””A Conversation with Ye: Linsey Davis Reporting,” a half-hour special on ABC News Live, airs at 8:30 p.m. ET and streams later on Hulu.

WATCH: https://gma.abc/3LwNkx2

Credit “ABC News//Good Morning America”

Ye opens up in ABC News exclusive interview

By Mark Guarino, Katie Conway

Ye said he has “new respect” for ex-wife Kim Kardashian and felt sorrow for causing stress in the relationship since Kardashian filed for divorce in February 2021.

“This is the mother of my children, and I apologize for any stress that I have caused, even in my frustration, because God calls me to be stronger,” Ye, the recording artist and entrepreneur formerly known as Kanye West, said in an exclusive morning interview that aired Thursday on “Good Morning America.” “I need this person to be less stressed and of the best, sound mind and as calm as possible to be able to raise those children at the end of the day.”

In a wide-ranging interview that covered Donda Academy, a school he started in California, to his plans to once again run for president, Ye repeatedly circled back to the responsibility that he has as a celebrity and his insistence that he have a say in the future of the four children he fathered with the global social media and reality TV star.

“As a dad and as a Christian. And I have a right to have a voice on what my kids are wearing, what they’re watching, what they’re eating,” he said. “I have a platform where I get to say what so many dads can’t say out loud.”

Ye said he “absolutely” wants his children to attend Donda Academy, “a gospel school” he created named after Donda West, his late mother who chaired the Department of English, Communications, Media Arts and Theatre at Chicago State University on Chicago’s South Side. She died in 2007.

“I’m their dad. It has to be co-parenting. It’s not up to only the woman. Like, men have a choice also. Men’s voices matter,” he said.

The private school, which Ye said was originally named the Yeezy Christian Academy, is located in Simi Valley, California. According to the school’s website, the academy’s mission is to help students “learn fundamentals, grow in their faith, and experience two enrichment classes.”

Ye said the school gives “kids practical tools that they need in a world post the iPhone being created.” He said the school is in its third year and has an enrollment of 82 students.

“So many schools are made to set kids up for industries that don’t even matter anymore,” he said, pointing out that the focus areas of the school is “on practical skills” such as engineering, computer programming and farming. He added that the school has tutors who focus on specific areas and could “actually turn your kids into, like, geniuses.”

“And if your kids are geniuses … they’re three grade levels ahead,” he added.

Ye told ABC News he hired a female basketball coach to help improve the skills of North, his 9-year-old daughter. He also helps coach North “every morning,” he said. The effort, Ye added, showed dramatic results. “She trained every day and I really stayed on her. And when she came back, she had the confidence,” he said.

Ye, who created the fashion brand Yeezy, also addressed the dissolving of his partnership with the Gap. Last week, Ye sent the Gap a letter terminating the 10-year partnership, saying the clothing retailer breached its contract to sell his Yeezy Gap line of apparel. Ye said he plans to open his own line of stores simply called YZY.

Mark Breitbard, Gap brand president and CEO, said the company and West are “not aligned” in how they work together, according to a memo sent to employees and reviewed by the Wall Street Journal. “Simply put…while we share a vision how we work together to deliver this vision is not aligned,” Breitbard wrote, according to the Journal.

It was all kind of a disregard for the voice of something that I co-created.

In addition to criticizing the Gap, Ye has recently criticized Adidas, a retailer that carries his apparel. Ye has been working with the athletic brand since their partnership was announced in 2016, but lashed out at Adidas when the brand released its Adilette 22 sandals, which resemble Ye’s Yeezy slides. Ye called their footwear “a fake Yeezy.”

“It was all kind of a disregard for the voice of something that I co-created. I co-created the product at Adidas. I co-created the product at Gap,” Ye said.

“That means that I was there for some specific agenda, not for Yeezy Gap to be everything that it could be, or this dream that I had about what the Gap could be,” he said. “It’s time for me to make my own thing.”

Adidas Chief Executive Kasper Rorsted said in August that West was probably the most important partner the company had, according to the Wall Street Journal. Adidas is trying to find a path toward continuing the partnership, the paper reported.

Since his ongoing battle with Adidas, Ye said he’s determined to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes of his brand.

“We had to level up,” Ye said. “Really show ’em who’s the new boss in town, that I’m the boss of me. I’m no longer just the man ridin’ atop the polo horse. I’m not just a mascot in the middle of the games, gettin’ the crowd hyped up sayin’, ‘Hey, wear this, do this,’ but you know, just learn financial engineering. Learn how to — learn how to really run a company.”

Ye added that he plans to move forward with an Oct. 3 fashion show in Paris that was initially planned in conjunction with the Gap. He secured a new producer for the event, he said, via Instagram.

Today, YZY Gap engineered by Balenciaga announced a new line of outerwear and knitwear, which will be made available online. YZY Gap engineered by Balenciaga also announced that YZY Gap will be available at stores outside of the U.S. for the first time at Gap’s Tokyo and Shanghai flagship stores.

Potentially, another presidential run

In November 2020, Ye conceded his run for president. He had loaned $6.8 million to his 2020 presidential committee, essentially self-funding his campaign during the first month and a half of his run, according to a Federal Election Commission disclosure filing.

Ye said he “absolutely” plans to run for president again but did not specify when.

“That time wasn’t in God’s time,” he said.

Ye said he is often misunderstood because of his adamancy for his Christian faith, which drives him to perform “Sunday Service” with a gospel choir at different locations around the U.S. He said he’s a “radical” for wanting to promote “the idea of family, the idea of God, the idea of protecting your children’s innocence for as long as possible.”

“When you remove the love and fear of God, you open up the love and fear of everything else. And it’s easier to have sheep when people don’t have God. It’s easier to control the people if people are not controlled by God. Because then they can be controlled by how many likes they have or whatever’s happening on their TikTok or how much money or the perception that people have,” he said.

“But we only have one audience here and that audience is God. And He’s watching us at all times,” Ye said. “He’s got my back.”

GOOD MORNING AMERICA EXCLUSIVE: Frances Tiafoe Talks Amazing US Open

While he didn’t make it to this year’s U.S. Open championship, Frances Tiafoe’s tennis journey still looks very bright.

The 24-year-old American was a breakout star of this year’s tournament after he beat tennis legend Rafael Nadal to advance to the quarterfinals.

Tiafoe spoke in an interview with ABC News on “Good Morning America” Monday about his journey to one of tennis’ biggest stages.

While he said he felt “a ton of different emotions” through his run, he hailed the Grand Slam as “the best two weeks of my life.”

“Probably the best thing [was] seeing the first lady Michelle Obama after the match,” he said of his semifinal match with Carlos Alcaraz. “I was on the one changeover and I looked and she looked at me — and then when they announced her and seeing the crowd erupt, that was pretty impactful.”

He was the first Black American man to reach the semifinals of the U.S. Open since 1972. The last player to do so was Arthur Ashe, the namesake of the stadium where Tiafoe and Alcaraz battled.

“It’s truly a blessing. All the work that my parents did over the years and having them see that and be a part of that is crazy. And to be in the same sentence as Arthur Ashe in anything is unbelievable and something no one can ever take from me. So I’m going to remember that forever,” Tiafoe explained.

Tiafoe said he hopes to continue to move the sport forward for others as a role model.  “My whole life I’ve wanted to pave a way so people like me can also play the game of tennis and just be great leaders as well as great individuals,” he said.

Tiafoe lost in five sets against Alcaraz; their match lasted four hours and 19 minutes. The 19-year-old Spanish phenom advanced to the final and won the tournament.

“I feel I let you guys down,” Tiafoe said after the match, addressing the crowd during an on-court interview. “This one hurts. This one really, really hurts — I’m going to be back — and I will win this thing one day.”

Tiafoe credited picking up a racquet to his father, who was the head of maintenance at a tennis center in Maryland.

Tiafoe, whose parents immigrated from Sierra Leone amid war in the 1990s, grew up outside of Washington, D.C., with his brother, Franklin.

“My parents are everything,” Tiafoe told ABC News. “We wouldn’t be doing this interview, all achievements, I wouldn’t have them without them. I’m just so thankful for them, and them instilling in me hard work and understanding — being humble and grateful for everything that comes your way. They shaped me to the person I am today.”

In 2020, Tiafoe won the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award, the ATP’s award for off-court impact.

Tiafoe added that being an inspiration is “what it’s all about.”

MORE: Serena Williams loses at US Open, likely ends professional career

“We all have a certain gift and to use that gift to inspire so many people to do great things in life,” he said.

As for the fate of the sport, Tiafoe said he thinks “American tennis is in a great place.”

“You’ll see some Grand Slam champions soon,” he said, mentioning Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula, who he said is “playing great tennis.”

“I’m super excited to be in that conversation,” Tiafoe said. By Kelly McCarthy, Haley Yamada & Henderson Hewes