LOVE & MARRIAGE: HUNTSVILLE CAST AND CARLOS KING “SPILL THE TEA” AT PRIVATE LA EVENT 

OWN Network celebrated the highly anticipated launch of the new season of their hit reality series, Love & Marriage: Huntsville  with an exclusive Special Live Conversation and reception at NYA Studios West in Los Angeles. Alongside reality king and Creator and Executive Producer, Carlos King decked out in fit to impress, were Love & Marriage: Huntsville castmates Kimmi Scott, Maurice Scott, LaTisha Scott, and Marsau Scott.

TINA PERRY, President of OWN Network; SHIRLEY SALOMON, Vice President of Production of OWN, DARYL BOLANDER, Vice President, Programming & Development of OWN; and DREW TAPPON, Head of Unscripted Development and Executive Producer of Love & Marriage: Huntsville, OWN, among many others, also were present to toast to OWN’s #1 series.

The evening kicked off with a bustling red carpet, followed by an inspiring sizzle reel highlighting OWN, Love & Marriage Huntsville, and the partnership with Carlos King and Kingdom Reign Productions. Following the sizzle, Carlos made a grand entrance, welcomed the invited guests, and introduced The Scotts.

The real and raw conversation around black love, the development of the show on OWN, and the authentic storytelling were met with a roaring round of applause at the end. The festivities then continued at NYA with an elevated reception where guests sipped on themed cocktails like Carlos Spills The Tea, Spicy Love & Marriage Margarita, and Reign Drops and snacked on hors d’oeuvres with local NAACP, NABJLA members and press in attendance.

OWN reinforced last night the value in investing in African American creators and storytelling that speaks authentically to the culture and community that left people inspired and encouraged.

PHOTO CREDIT: Yvette Jones/ OWN NETWORK

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.

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.

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.

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

Ashanti Joined “Good Morning America”

This morning, singer Ashanti joined “Good Morning America” to talk about rerecording her debut album to own her masters and her new children’s book.  In case you missed it, the performances included a special appearance from Ja Rule.

Ashanti performs a medley of hits on ‘GMA’ The Grammy-winning singer performs some of her most popular jams, including “Rock Wit U,” “Happy” and “Mesmerize,” and brings out a special guest.

Ashanti performs ‘Falling for You’ and ‘Foolish’ on ‘GMA’ The hit singer performs her brand-new song live for the first time along with one of her biggest hits.

Ashanti chats about new music and re-recording past hits The singer said she was inspired by Taylor Swift to re-record her debut album, which was released 20 years ago.

Credit: Good Morning America/ABC News

Hulu’s ‘ESSENCE FEST PRIMETIME’ Line-Up Announced, Includes Janet Jackson, New Edition, Nicki Minaj, and More

As previously announced, Hulu will serve as the official streaming destination of the 2022 ESSENCE Festival, which will take place in person in New Orleans, and virtually, from June 30 – July 3, 2022.  This marks the first time ever that ESSENCE has made programming from its iconic Festival available on a streaming platform. Select daytime programming including panel discussions and evening musical performances will be available exclusively to Hulu SVOD subscribers to livestream at no additional cost*.  The “ESSENCE FEST PRIMETIME” livestream will run on the platform July 1 – 3 from 7:00pm – 11:59pm CT.

In addition to live celebrity interviews with host Angela Yee and highlights from daytime programming, “ESSENCE FEST PRIMETIME” will include the following musical performances (all times CTsubject to change):

FRIDAY, JULY 1

7:30PM – Mickey Guyton

8:10PM – Kes The Band

9:10PM – Machel Montano

10:05PM – Wyclef & Friends

10:55PM – Nas

11:45PM – Nicki Minaj

SATURDAY, JULY 2

7:20PM – Lucky Daye

7:50PM – Chloe x Halle

8:05PM – D-Nice & Friends

9:30PM – Summer Walker

10:00PM – Jazmine Sullivan

10:35PM – Patti LaBelle

11:35PM – Janet Jackson

SUNDAY, JULY 3

7:20PM – City Girls

8:00PM – Lil Kim

8:35PM – The Roots & Friends

9:45PM – Isley Brothers

10:30PM – Wizkid

11:25PM – New Edition

Hulu will also have a special presence on-site at the Festival, providing guests with an immersive experience at “The Rink @ The Hulu Motel,” a roller skating rink filled with interactive touchpoints, giveaways, and content-themed bites and drinks. Skaters will also be treated to live performances by DJ OHSO and DJ DIAMOND KUTS.  The three-day activation will be open July 1-3 from Noon – 7:00pm to guests 21+ at the New Orleans Civic Theatre.

*Requires Hulu or Hulu (No Ads) base plan subscription. Live content access available 7/1/22 through 7/3/22 from 7:00 p.m. – 11:59 p.m. CT only.

Martin Lawrence and Tessa Thompson join “GMA” and Meg Thee Stallion Summer Concert Performers

In case you missed it, on “Good Morning America” actor and comedian Martin Lawrence talked about 30th anniversary of ‘Martin,’ and reunion special on BET+ as well as his favorite character and career.

Plus, actress Tessa Thompson discussed her latest role and “GMA” announced the 2022 summer concert series which will include performances from Meg Thee Stallion, Ozuna, and The Black Eyed Peas. Martin Lawrence talks about 30th anniversary of ‘Martin’ The comedy legend and the cast of the hit ’90s sitcom reunited for a new special on BET+.

Actress Tessa Thompson also discusses her role as Valkyrie in ”Thor: Love and Thunder” and Creed 3.

Plus GMA Announces 2022 Summer Concert Series Performers include such superstars as Megan Thee Stallion, aespa, the Black Eyed Peas, Ozuna, Demi Lovato and OneRepublic. 

 

Good Morning America” announces its sizzling hot lineup for the 2022 Summer Concert Series with K-pop girl group aespa kicking off the free concert series on Friday, July 8.

Sponsored by Massage Envy, this year’s concert series lineup includes some of the biggest stars in music, including OneRepublic, Megan Thee Stallion, Demi Lovato, Ozuna, and the Black Eyes Peas.

Each concert will take place from Rumsey Playfield in Central Park in New York City.

This link will be updated as additional performances are announced.

·        July 8 – aespa #aespaonGMA

·        July 15 – OneRepublic #OneRepublicOnGMA

·        August 12 – Megan Thee Stallion #MeganTheeStallionOnGMA

·        August 19 – Demi Lovato #DemiLovatoOnGMA

·        August 26 – Ozuna #OzunaOnGMA          

·        September 2 – Black Eyed Peas #BlackEyedPeasOnGMA

Credit ABC News//Good Morning America