#FASHIONFAB: Kelly Rowland in Raisa Vanessa at Good Morning America...Hot or Not?
Kelly Rowland hit the streets of New York in the perfect style for this blustery time of year: a sassy sweater dress. Of course she’s not just walking around for no reason. She’s in town to promote her new children’s book Always with You, Always with Me and stopped by the Good Morning America studios to chat.
Nice!
#RHOA: Oh? Marlo Hampton says Kenya Moore is not excited that I got a peach
How do you like them apples peaches, Kenya Moore?
Marlo Hampton exclusively tells Page Six that she feels her longtime frenemy is not happy that she finally achieved full-time status on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” for Season 14.
“I don’t feel Kenya was that happy at all,” Hampton says of Moore, who previously stated that the promotion is a “good look” for Bravo. “I feel that was all just smoke and mirrors or whatever.”
The Le’ Archive founder continues, “I feel deep inside that she didn’t feel that I should have [a peach]. She didn’t want me to be her equal or sitting on the couch next to her.
“I’ve been there, but she’s always been able to feel like she had one on top of me, saying she was a peach holder. But I don’t think she was genuine at all in being excited for me.”
Hampton, 46, joined the latest installment of “RHOA” as a full-time “Housewife” following the exits of veteran cast members Cynthia Bailey and Porsha Williams.
After ten seasons of putting in the work as a “friend of” — bringing major drama and high-end fashion to the reality franchise — news of Hampton’s upgraded role pleased devoted fans who had begged the network to give her a peach for years.
“I’ve been here for 10 years, so it’s home,” she says. “But it’s like the next level now and I’m just so excited because I know all my fans and supporters are so excited to really get to see all of Marlo, get to know all of me — besides the fashion and me and my slick mouth.”
Hampton says that was had been passed over for a full-time position on “RHOA” twice.
“I thought I was going to [get it two times] and I didn’t. I’m going to tell you the truth,” she says. “I went in the room and I boohoo-cried like a baby. I’m like, ‘It’s not fair, guys. It’s just not fair!’ I was so pissed. And I’m like, ‘OK, give it 15 minutes, get those tears off and get your ass and be a friend. Go drive these heifers crazy!’”
But with a peach in her hand, Hampton hoped to find permanent peace with Moore, 51, while filming Season 14. She claims to have made an effort to be a “great friend” to the Kenya Moore Hair CEO after the two had made amends on Season 13 following years of discord.
“I put in the work. Like, I’m going to show this girl what being a friend is. I went above and beyond to support her and I’m just like, ‘I’m tired of you never supporting me,’” Hampton says. “Every damn time I give, she just f—king takes some water and throws it right in my face.”
However, Hampton has found sisterhood with castmates Kandi Burruss, Shereé Whitfield, Drew Sidora and newbie Sanya Richards-Ross.
“I truly feel like Kandi was definitely happy. She’s always advocated for me to get a peach,” she notes. “Sanya is super excited. She’s a new peach holder. She’s a bubble of joy. It’s sad that Cynthia isn’t here with us to enjoy it with me. But I think for the most part, the majority are happy.”
“The Real Housewives of Atlanta” Season 14 premieres Sunday, May 1, at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo.
#NewNewMusicVideo: Ruff Endz – Your Body (featuring Krazyie Bone)
R&B Group Ruff Endz have just released the visual for their latest single “Your Body” featuring rapper Krazyie Bone.
The song was included on the group’s recently released fifth studio album “Rebirth”.
The single was written by Ruff Endz and Krayzie Bone and produced by David Chance. Chance goes on to add about the song:
“Your Body”, came from an idea we had to write a song that shines light on the women who work so hard to maintain their appearance. This woman takes the kids to school, works hard at her job, cooks, cleans, and still finds the time to go to the gym and keep herself up.”
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The video for the song was directed by David Chance and Michael Chance. Dante Jordan of the group goes on to add:
“We are fascinated by this woman’s strength, confidence, beauty, and of course her curves. The song is an expression of our admiration to all women who do so much and wear so many hats but haven’t stopped loving themselves.”
#HipHopNews: Travis Scott To Perform Publicly For First Time Since Astroworld
Travis Scott has booked his first public show since Astroworld. The Houston rapper will take the stage at Miami hotspot E11EVEN on Saturday, May 7. The show coincides with the festivities surrounding Race Week and the 2022 Miami Grand Prix, which will be held the next day at the Miami International Autodrome.
The performance, which also features an after-hours set from Chase B, is being promoted on E11EVEN’s website as well as social media. Tickets are available to purchase for $150 for females and $250 for males, while VIP tables can cost upwards of $100,000, according to TMZ.
This will be Travis’ first performance for a large crowd since the Astroworld tragedy in November, which resulted in 10 deaths. He previously performed at a private gig during the first weekend of Coachella as well as a pre-Oscars party in Bel-Air.
Travis appears to be testing the waters for his return. There had been rumored talks of him headlining Coachella in the wake of Kanye West’s cancelation, but the booking ultimately went to The Weeknd and Swedish House Mafia.
On Friday, Travis released his first music since November as a featured guest on Southside’s “Hold That Heat” with Future. His long-awaited album Utopia is set for release later this year.
HBCU Morris Brown College Officially Regains Full Accreditation After Almost 20 Years
Morris Brown College was granted full accreditation on Tuesday (Apr. 26) from the Transactional Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. The re-accreditation means students will be able to attend Morris Brown College, receive federal funding, and graduate with accredited degrees. According to reports, The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools revoked Morris Brown’s accreditation back in 2002 because of the school’s severe debt. Financial impropriety by a previous leader at the HBCU left the institution in dire condition, ultimately causing the school to file for bankruptcy in 2012. While Morris Brown earned accreditation candidacy in 2021, it has now been officially granted by the TRACS association.
Over the years, Morris Brown never closed its doors despite bankruptcy, foreclosure of some facilities, and a dwindling student population. After decades of work from alumni, supporters, and church officials, the school was able to pay off more than $30 million of debt.
During a recent phone interview, Current Morris Brown College president, Dr. Kevin James, had this to say:
“Morris Brown College just made history. We’re excited about it. A lot of people had written us off. But due to a lot of hard work and dedication, we were able to regain our accreditation.”
According to reports, the TRACS association will conduct annual reviews of Morris Brown’s finances and audits as part of the post-accreditation process.
The historically black college– located in downtown Atlanta–was founded in 1881 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church to provide higher education for African Americans after the Civil War. Many notable black Americans from the civil rights movement attended Morris Brown College, including; Alberta Williams King–the mother of Martin Luther King, Jr.– civil rights leader Hosea Williams, and hundreds of educators, doctors, athletes, and business leaders.
The school’s leadership will hold a press conference Thursday (Apr.28) to formally announce the decision and steps forward for the college.
Blac Chyna’s Bid To Force E! To Reveal Profits From Cancelled Reality Show ‘Rob & Chyna’ Is Denied By Judge
Blac Chyna’s request to force the E! network to reveal how much it earned in profits from her short-lived reality show, “Rob & Chyna,” has been thrown out by a judge.
Judge Gregory Alarcon–who’s been presiding over the 33-year-old’s lawsuit against the Kardashian/Jenner family– has denied her request to subpoena the network to open up its books on the spin-off series during its seven-episode run in 2016. Reportedly, Blac Chyna’s attorney, Lynne Ciani, had argued that details surrounding the profits E! gained from the series are vital to her claim for damages against the billionaire family. However, on Monday (Apr. 25), E! attorney Rochelle Wilcox filed an opposing motion, telling Judge Alarcon that such information is a “privileged trade secret” that should not be publicly disclosed.
On Tuesday (Apr. 26), Judge Alarcon granted the network’s motion in a written ruling after “finding that plaintiff (Chyna) has failed to show good cause to seek trade secrets.”
As previously reported, model/reality TV star Blac Chyna is currently suing the Kardashian/Jenner family for allegedly getting her reality show “Rob & Chyna” canceled, costing her millions. While the show received good ratings and was seemingly popular, it ended abruptly after one season. In the lawsuit, Chyna claims Kris Jenner and her daughters Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, and Kylie Jenner used their influence at E! to get her contract terminated.
Wednesday (Apr.27) marks the eighth day of trial in which sisters Kim, 41, Khloe, 37, Kylie Jenner, 24, and their mother, Kris Jenner, 66, are all named defendants in the suit. On Tuesday, Kim Kardashian admitted in court that she was less than thrilled about having to film episodes of “Keeping up with the Kardashians“ with Blac Chyna after she allegedly beat her brother, Rob Kardashian, 35, with a metal rod.
In one of the alleged messages sent to E! producers in 2017, the “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” alum wrote that she needed a small break from filming “until you guys figure out what you’re going to do.” Kim Kardashian allegedly added,
“Chyna will not be on our show. And it’s actually putting my brother in bad position because he ends up crying all day saying the only reason she [Chyna] showed up was because she was filming.”
When asked whether the message was sent in an attempt to stop a potential second season of E!’s “Rob & Chyna,” Kim insisted it had nothing to do with their spin-off and only referred to her desire to temporarily take a break from taping.
“I can’t control the content of what they film, but this is our show — why would we film with her? I really don’t know what they were filming [for “Rob & Chyna”] beyond when the fight happened. Clearly something happened.”
Blac Chyna’s attorney, Lynne Ciani, grilled Kim about the intent of the text message she sent to her sisters and E! producers- and whether they ever had a family meeting about canceling the second season of ‘Rob & Chyna.’
Kim claims she was attempting to be transparent and set realistic expectations for who would be appearing on “KUWTK,” insisting that it had nothing to do with the “Rob & Chyna” show. While on the stand, Kim told attorney Ciani,
“Clearly, if I’m asking if [Chyna is] getting paid, I have no knowledge if she was getting paid on our show.”
The lawyer then pushed back,You were informing producers if Chyna was on “KUWTK,” you weren’t going to film anymore?” Kim quickly replied, They could film what they want. … We don’t have the power, as you have been insinuating. I was just expressing that I will be taking a break from filming to assess how I’m feeling. I will not go into work in a toxic environment. I can only control what I can do, which is to take a break.”
Blac Chyna–who shares a daughter with Rob Kardashian– is suing the Kardashian family for $100 million, accusing them of defamation and “intentional interference with contract” that led to her show being canceled.
What are your thoughts?
Queen Latifah breaks ground on housing development in Newark | NJ
NEWARK, NJ — Newark's latest housing development was launched Tuesday, getting a special send off from the Brick City's beloved "queen."
Dana Owens – otherwise known as Queen Latifah – was among those present at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Rise Living housing development (watch the video here). The new development will transform several properties along 19th Avenue, South 16th Street and South 17th Street into modern housing and mixed-use spaces.
According to developers, the buildings will include a fitness center, business center, charging stations for electric vehicles, and ground floor parking spaces. Amenities will include touchless entry and free wifi in all common areas, online portals for maintenance and rent payment, washers and dryers in units, hardwood floors, green roofs in selected units, air conditioning and stainless-steel appliances.
Developers said 16 units will be classified as affordable housing. Market-rate rents are set to start at $1,800.
Work begun on the site at 650 Springfield Avenue in January of 2022. The groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of the next phase of work on the site, which will lead to an eventual 76 units and 1,900 square feet of ground-floor space for nonprofit organizations. Pre-leasing is expected to commence in July of 2022.
Rise Living is a collaboration between Life Assets Development, Gonsosa, and the BlueSugar Corporation, which was co-founded by Latifah.
"I'm a little emotional," she said Tuesday, getting a round of eager applause from supporters. "We got walls up… we got windows."
The music icon said it was important for her to build something in the city that Queen Latifah could live in … not just Dana Owens.
"What I want you to understand is that there's love in this city," Latifah continued. "There is love in this community."
And it includes the spirit of her late mother, Rita Owens, she said.
"Rise is not just 'Rise Living," Latifah emphasized. "Rise is 'Rita is seen everywhere… Rita is still everywhere. There's no way this would be possible if she was not still in the midst of this."
Artist rendering of 650 Springfield Avenue (courtesy of BlueSugar and Life Assets Development)
Alberto Goncalves, CEO of Life Assets Development, said developers are thrilled to have secured such an "ideally-located property" with BlueSugar Corp, and they appreciate the confidence that the City of Newark has placed in them.
"We believe Rise Living will be a complementary addition to the city's multi-billion dollar revitalization plan, and we look forward to creating a community of value that taps into the neighborhood's full potential," Goncalves said.
THEY’RE BACK! 'Legendary' Season 3 on HBO Max – KeKe Palmer replaces Megan Thee Stallion as a Judge!
Keke Palmer will be taking over for rapper Megan Thee Stallion who won’t return as a recurring judge for ‘Legendary’ season 3.
“I wanted to jump up but the way that this dress is set up I had to stay seated,” a revved-up Palmer says in her remarks to a competing House during her first tenure as judge.
Dashaun Wesley returns as host and MC of the HBO Max ballroom competition series in season 3. Leiomy Maldonado, Jameela Jamil, and Law Roach — who all served alongside Megan Thee Stallion as judges for the first two seasons of Legendary — are also returning. A reason for Megan’s departure was not given.
An actress, singer, and TV personality, Palmer makes waves this year with roles in the thriller Alice, Peele’s Nope, and through voice roles in Netflix’s Human Resources, Disney+’s The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, and Pixar’s Lightyear.
Legendary, produced by Scout Productions, sees 10 Houses of the ballroom scene voguing, twirling, duck-walking, and dipping in competition to win a cash prize. To the winner goes the $100,000 spoils.
Season 3 will drop the first three episodes on premiere day, Thursday, May 19. It will continue to release three episodes in subsequent weeks until the show debuts the 10th and final episode on June 9. Seasons 1 and 2 are currently available to stream on HBO Max.
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As with past seasons, this one has a star-studded guest roster. EW can confirm Issa Rae, Kelly Rowland, Leslie Jones, Pose star Dominique Jackson, Anitta, RuPaul’s Drag Race and We’re Here star Bob the Drag Queen, and Grammy nominees Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern among the guest judges. The trailer promises “more” to come.
Jackson, for one, is making her return to the show after guest judging the Circus Berserkus-themed episode in season 1 that got… pretty heated. Who could forget her “I am ballroom!” speech after calling the contestants in House of Gucci “not that stunning”? By the looks of the season 3 trailer, however, Roach will be the one bringing the drama this year.
Bouncer to Be Charged with Murder for Allegedly Killing Man with Punch to the Head at a Philly Gay Bar
Loved ones are mourning a man who died more than a week after being punched by a bouncer outside of a Center City nightclub. An arrest warrant was issued for the bouncer and police continue to search for him. NBC10’s Leah Uko has the latest on the investigation.
A bouncer at a Center City nightclub will be charged with third-degree murder for punching a man who later died of his injuries following an incident on April 16, police said Wednesday.
The punch occurred outside Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar on the 200 block of South 12th Street shortly before 1 a.m. that morning. Police allege that the bouncer, identified as 24-year-old Kenneth Frye, brought an intoxicated 41-year-old man outside and punched him in the face.
They have not revealed what exactly led to the punch. Third-degree murder is a charge issued in a killing that is not believed to be premeditated or involved in another felony crime.
Sources told NBC10 the man fell to the ground after being punched and was unconscious. He was taken to Jefferson Hospital where he was placed in the intensive care unit. On Sunday, April 24, he died from his injuries.
The victim was identified as Eric Pope. Addresses for the suspect and victim are not yet known.
Frye worked for Main Line Security on a contract at Tabu. NBC10 reached out to Main Line Security for comment, but has not heard back.
Early Wednesday evening, police released a photo of Frye. They continue to search for him.
"Violence is unacceptable," Krasner said earlier this week. "It is stunning to think of someone whose job it is to try and prevent unsafe situations causing severe injuries or in this case even causing death."
A deputy police commissioner said Fry was expected to turn himself in Wednesday or be taken into custody soon.
"We look at these situations very, very carefully to make sure that we are not excessively and unfairly using our power," Krasner said. "And we will do that with this case as we would for any other homicide case especially one that has this peculiar aspect of it which is a punch that results in death.
Madonna And Her Boyfriend Ahlamalik Williams Break Up After 3 Years
She knows “The Power of Good-Bye.”Madonna and her boyfriend, Ahlamalik Williams, have broken up after three years of dating, The UK Sun reported Tuesday.
“Madonna has thrown herself into a busy social life and has been seeing her friends and family after the split,” a source told the outlet.
“She has a packed schedule, working on her upcoming biopic, new music and looking after her family.”
The now-former couple split amicably, according to the insider, but had been “on and off” for a while.
“They are still on good terms and there are no hard feelings, but they are at different places with their lives,” the source added, noting that Williams moved out of Madonna’s house.
“With them both working on other things, it was hard to keep their romance alight.”
Reps for Madonna didn’t immediately return request for comment.
The Queen of Pop seemed to allude to the rumored split on her Instagram Story Tuesday when she posted a cryptic quote about karma.
“Karma said: when somebody in your life is not right for you….god will continuously use them to hurt you until you become strong enough to let them go,” the quote read.
After taking their relationship public, the “Express Yourself” singer really began “burning up” for Williams’ love. She got closer with him over time and even brought him to Italy with her kids.
Madonna is mom to six children: daughters Lourdes, 25, and Mercy, 16, twins Stella and Estere, 9, and sons Rocco, 21, and David, 16.
Andrew Garfield Reveals the Reason Why He's Taking a Break From Acting
Andrew Garfield admits that he needs to take a break from acting.
The past couple of months he’s had several projects come out, including the newest Spider-Man movie, The Eyes of Tammy Faye and Tick, Tick … Boom! Now, he’s promoting the new FX series, Under the Banner of Heaven.
“I’m going to rest for a little bit,” he told Variety. “I need to recalibrate and reconsider what I want to do next and who I want to be and just be a bit of a person for awhile. Because as you know, that is a washing machine, that awards season.”
He added, “I need to just be a bit ordinary for a while.”
“Fast And Furious” Director Justin Lin Steps Down From Filming ‘Fast X’
‘Fast and Furious’ director Justin Lin announced that he will be stepping down from filming ‘Fast X’ and its sequel.
Why the ‘Fast’ franchise director decided to leave the final two films
Lin made the announcement on his Instagram page early Tuesday where he addressed his departure as director from ‘Fast X’ and its sequel. He writes: “With the support of Universal, I have made the difficult decision to step back as director of ‘Fast X,’ while remaining with the project as a producer. Over 10 years and five films, we have been able to shoot the best actors, the best stunts, and the best damn car chases.”
“On a personal note, as the child of Asian immigrants, I am proud of helping to build the most diverse franchise in movie history. I will forever be grateful to the amazing cast, crew, and studio for their support, and for welcoming me into the ‘Fast’ family,” he continued.
Lin directed five of the previous films in the sequel and stated he would stop filming the series after the sixth film as reported by Insider. He was originally scheduled to film “F9” but Vin Diesel asked him to film the final three films of the “Fast” franchise.
Last week, Vin Diesel posted a video of himself and Lin on the set of the film on his Instagram page.
“It wasn’t until the idea of further exploring this theme of family, but through blood that excited me because I knew that if we were going to do that, there was a really great chance that we were going to be able to kind of go back and explore and solidify some of the origins of this mythology.
Once I kind of agreed, Vin kind of pulled me aside and he said, ‘You’re not leaving. We’re finishing this thing up.”
Fans of the franchise react to the news of Lin’s departure as director
The film is scheduled to be released on May 19, 2023
Randy Jackson Admits American Idol ‘Missed A Little Bit’ By Eliminating Jennifer Hudson
Randy Jackson still hasn’t forgotten about Jennifer Hudson’s breathtaking performances on season three of the hit show American Idol. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, while promoting his modern TV venture, Name That Tune, Jackson reflected on Jennifer Hudson’s elimination when she was sent home in 7th place.
“I feel like we missed a little bit on Jennifer Hudson, even though she’s gone on to do well,” Jackson, who originally judged Idol with Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, told the publication. “I felt like we missed a bit on Tamyra Gray. Tamyra was such a great singer, and such a great talent. I always think there’s some that we miss on — I mean it’s tough, you’re not going to get them all. You only really need one per season.”
Though the record producer hasn’t been a judge on American Idol in years — season 12 was his last at the table — he did take a minute to give flowers to its current panel of Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. “We did it from the beginning, before anybody knew the show would be a success, so, when people all talk about — you know success has many fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers,” he said. “I just tip my hat off to the show and to the legacy of the brand, and Katy, Lionel, and Luke, you guys are killing the game trying to keep it alive. I love it.”
Jackson also spoke about what it was like creating the show from the ground up, including the period he knew it would be a hit. “One of my favorite memories is when Kelly [Clarkson] won the very first season, because that’s when I realized that the show was really going to work,” he said. “I mean, it was meager beginnings, y’all. We started from the bottom, now we’re here.”
“I mean, I’m like — I’m sitting there at the finale like, ‘All these people voted?” he added.
Since Idol was established, myriad related singing competition shows have arisen in its wake, from Simon Cowell’s X-Factor to The Voice, where, in what is something like a full circle story, but Kelly Clarkson’s show is now progressing as well. But Jackson doesn’t think any of those shows hold a candle to American Idol.
“The greatest ever of any kind, to me,” he said of Idol. “I mean nothing like it before, nothing like it after, and there’s a bunch to try and copy, and to duplicate and imitate, but yo, you never beat the OG.”
Lavern Cox on Her 50th Birthday: ‘This Body Has Been Through So Much, Both Inside and Outside’
*Ahead of her 50th birthday next month, actress Lavern Cox is reflecting on life. On Tuesday, the Orange Is the New Black star shared a sexy black and white video of herself to Instagram, wearing a cute lingerie set. Below the post, she wrote a lengthy caption about her life.
The award-winning star said, “In a little over a month on May 29th I turn 50 years old. It’s hard to believe I’m still alive, that I’m almost 5 decades old. This body has been through so much, both inside and outside: traumas, transition, classical ballet, successes, failures, abuse, injuries, healing, weight gain, weight loss, illness, pleasure, ecstasy. This body has been through a lot of negative self talk about it from me. I’ve been cruel, abusive, punitive in the ways in which I have talked to and treated to this body.”
She went on to say, “Knowing the ways in which cis normative, white supremacist, misogynist, fatphobic, capitalist beauty standards make us devalue ourselves has not exempted me from internalizing those standards. There are some ways in which my body has changed as I’ve gotten older and grown into my womanhood that I love. There are other things I struggle to love. But it is my prayer that a day at a time I can actively participate in keeping this body healthy and strong as it ages. It is my prayer that a day at a time that I can let go of negative self-talk towards this body replacing that negative with affirming talk of this body’s resilience and beauty and how it’s gotten me through almost 50 years of some thangs of the thangs. Lol! Honey!! This is what comes up for me as a 49-year-old woman posting a video of myself in skimpy lingerie on Instagram…
Kelly Rowland Has a New Kids’ Book: ‘Always with You’
*Kelly Rowland has released a new kids’ book titled “Always with You, Always with Me,” which she co-wrote with Jessica McKay.
The inspiration for the title comes from Rowland’s eldest son Titan, whom she often leaves surprise notes for in his lunchbox or at home anytime she has to travel for work. Per PEOPLE, the picture book is illustrated by Fanny Liem, and “follows a mom who has to travel to different construction sites for work, but stays connected to her son through a rhyme they share: “Always with you, / Always with me, / Mommy and child / Together we’ll be.” (She notes that the chorus was inspired by one of her favorite kids’ books growing up, Love You Forever by Robert Munsch.),” the outlet writes.
Rowland tells the publication that it was “incredibly” important that her book features Black characters.
“Seeing a Black woman on a construction site and creating this world that she makes for others to enjoy, is just incredibly powerful,” she said. “Because kids can think bigger and broader when it comes to occupation.”
Rowland hopes the book will bring parents and their children closer.
“I think that sometimes kids feel like adults don’t feel moments like that. They’re like, ‘Well, they’re on their trips, so do they miss me?’ ” she said.
“Even though you say you miss them, it’s the action behind it that I think that children really appreciate, whether it’s a bracelet or something that you share between you that strengthens and fortifies the relationship,” Rowland added. “And that’s what makes it stronger and sweeter of a bond.”
Rowland hopes her book will be useful for her two sons anytime she is away from them.
“I wanted them to understand that and really have it in their psyche,” Rowland says. “So, even when they’re having those moments of anxiety or missing their parents when they’re at school, they can recite it. [I hope] it gives them a sense of ease and comfort, especially when you do it together.”
She adds, “That sense of feeling warm and seen and heard is necessary.”
Speaking of the parent/child connection, Rowland recently reunited with her estranged father and documented the moment for social media.
Rowland opened up about the journey in a recent episode of “Today” with Hota Kotb. She was joined by her father, Christopher Lovett, who spoke about his attempts to have a relationship with his famous during a period when she wasn’t ready to meet him. The singer was raised by her mother and had “feelings of abandonment” due to her father’s absence.
Rowland admits that she had a change of heart after the birth of her first son and that’s when she approached JAY-Z for advice.
“He said, ‘Love is all about risk. You gotta decide if you’re gonna jump,’” the mother-of-two recalled. “‘You gonna jump?’ That’s what he asked me: ‘Are you gonna jump?’”
Her answer was yes.
Rowland and her father eventually met at an Atlanta hotel and talked for hours.
Rowland’s “Always with You, Always with Me” book is available to purchase here
Allen Iverson’s 54-Point Game To Be Celebrated With Reebok Answer Iv Sneaker
Allen Iverson’s 54-point game is set to be immortalized in the classic silhouette of the Reebok Answer IV. Dubbed the Answer IV “54” points, the new sneaker will be released at Reebok.com and select retailers.
Allen Iverson would put on an amazing game-high 54-point scoring outburst – one of the best of his legendary career – to lead his Philadelphia team to an unexpected 107-104 playoff win on January 6, 2001, while wearing this particular white/grey Answer IV.
The white/grey Answer IV “54 Points” returns for the first time since that season, complete with an OG quality leather upper, reflective highlights, zipper shroud, and original tattoo graphic sockliner.
Nike honors Serena Williams with a building at their Oregon Headquarters
Nike unveiled a new building named after tennis icon Serena Williams at their Beaverton, Oregon headquarters
According to the iconic footwear and apparel brand, the Serena Williams Building is the brand’s largest building at 1-million-square-foot. It covers the equivalent of 140 full-size tennis courts. The building includes 140,000 square feet of showrooms, a color lab, materials library and a 140-seat theater named after Williams’ daughter Olympia.
In a recent Instagram post, Williams, 40, said having a building at Nike has always been a childhood dream of hers.
“When I was just a kid, I visited the Nike campus and I saw that athletes get buildings,” she wrote to her 14.6 million followers. “After that visit, I knew I wanted two things: to be a Nike athlete and to have a building.”
The LEED Platinum-certified Serena Williams Building demonstrates Nike’s commitment to championing athletes. It will serves as the artistic hub of the Nike headquarter, where the company’s designers will brainstorm, collaborate, and create the future of the company.
“Architecture has long been a creative catalyst for Nike,” said Nike’s chief design officer John Hoke, in a Nike press release. “A manifestation of form and function following footprint, this building embodies Serena’s legacy as a force for positive change.”
Williams has been associated with Nike for over 18 years and is known for her 23 grand slam titles, making her one of the biggest names in sports.
Only a few female athletes have buildings named after them on the Nike campus, including two-time Olympic gold medalist soccer player Mia Hamm and long-distance runner Olympian Joan Benoit Samuelson.
“The whole building takes your breath away,” Williams shared in the Nike press release. “Every element, everywhere you go, is an opportunity to be inspired. I hope this building encourages people to bring out the best of themselves and to dream bigger than they thought possible.
Monica blasts white reporter mad about Black turnout at CMT Awards: “Welcome to Wakanda”
Earlier this month, we reported on the white right-wing reporter that was bothered by the number of Black people who attended the 2022 CMT Awards, which were held on April 11. The event was co-hosted by Anthony Mackie and featured appearances from Black people who attended to show support and have a good time.
This caught the attention of Right Wing host Patrick Howley, who griped about their presence while reporting on the event.
As he played a clip of Mackie on stage, Howley spoke over the audio and seemingly mocked Black people. “The melanated people invented country music!” he teased. “We was making country music in Wakanda before Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard done stole the Black man’s country music! There were so many Black people there. Sorry to say, but so many Black celebrities who have nothing to do with country music and it’s like— why?”
Many people have since chimed in and responded to his comments. R&B legend Monica, who has been nurturing her early love for country music and is now working on a country album, had a few things to say. She used Howley’s negative comments and used them as fuel. “I’ve never been more motivated.. Patrick Howley, although your feelings are likely shared by some, it’s NOT by the masses! I have an all star LEGENDARY team of true country artist that are currently working with me that would beg to differ,” she types.
Monica then continues to express her gratitude towards the people who are making her country music dreams come true. “Because of the genuine hearts of @lesliefram1 & @cmt … I shared the stage w/ @jimmieallen & @littlebigtown …This was the first of many times that you will see me! I see You caught that my skin is melanated, but you missed that it was tough! I’m rooted in the word & built to last ! See you soon, or should I say “Welcome to Wakanda” gracefully bows w/ @anthonymackie.”
Derek Chauvin Files To Appeal Conviction In Murder Of George Floyd
Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer, held responsible for murdering George Floyd in 2020, has filed to appeal his conviction.
It’s been just one year since Chauvin was convicted of murdering George Floyd, and now he’s asking the Minnesota Court of Appeals to overturn his conviction. Last June, Chauvin was found guilty of unintentional second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. He was sentenced to 22 1/2 years in prison.
In the 82-page document, which was filed on Monday, Chauvin and his legal team claim several factors in the case and trial they claim made the proceedings “structurally defective.” The filing lists protests that took place outside of the courthouse as one of their examples.
NPR reports that Chauvin wants one of three things to happen as part of his appeal: Chauvin be given a lesser punishment, throw out his conviction completely and defer his case back to Hennepin County, or reverse the conviction and order a new trial in a different setting.
KFC Introducing Fried Chicken Bouquets for a Finger Lickin’ Good Mother’s Day
Fast-food chain KFC hopes to make this Mother’s Day finger-lickin’ good with the launch of its fried chicken bouquet. Yep, you read that right — a fried chicken bouquet.
This Mother’s Day, the fried chicken hotspot is teaming up with Proflowers to introduce its “Kentucky Fried Buckquet” — a DIY floral arrangement that allows customers to make a bouquet that is part fried chicken and part fresh flowers.
But here’s the catch, the Kentucky Fried Buckquet is only available to those who pre-order a KFC Sides Lover Meal via either the KFC mobile app or KFC.com from May 1 to 3. The meal includes eight extra crispy tenders or eight pieces of KFC fried chicken, four baked biscuits, and a choice of three large sides.
Once the pre-order is placed, customers should expect an email with a promo code to redeem their free Kentucky Fried Buckquet kit from Proflowers. The kit from Proflowers will include 12 colorful and vibrant roses, a glass vase, a KFC vase applique, eight skewers for the separately purchased chicken and a card.
KFC Introducing Fried Chicken Bouquets for a Finger Lickin' Good Mother's Day
“A regular bouquet of flowers is a good gift for mom, but a Sides Lovers Meal and Kentucky Fried Buckquet is a finger lickin’ good way to take Mother’s Day from a 10 to an 11,” said Nick Chavez, CMO, KFC U.S. “With three sides, four buttery biscuits and the unforgettable – truly – fried chicken and flower table decoration, everybody is sure to get something they like to eat, and mom is sure to smile.”
Thinking of surprising mama with a fried chicken bouquet? Here are the how-to steps below:
Step 1: Between May 1-3, simply pre-order a Sides Lovers Meal online by scheduling delivery or Quick Pick-Up on the KFC mobile app or KFC.com for Mother’s Day weekend (or whenever you plan to celebrate!). Don’t forget to add extra chicken to eat, if you plan to fill your Buckquet with all eight skewers of chicken!
Step 2: Once your order is complete, check your email for a special code and your link to Proflowers to schedule your delivery for the free Kentucky Fried Buckquet arrangement, which will be shipped directly to you and ready to assemble – just add chicken!
Step 3: Once you have your chicken from KFC and Buckquet roses and assembly materials from Proflowers, assemble your own Kentucky Fried Buckquet and surprise mom.
Step 4: Snap some pictures of her reaction and tag @kfc on social media using #KFCMothersDay.
Universal Music Group Being Sued Over Kanye West’s King Crimson ‘Power’ Sample
Universal Music Group is being sued for sampling King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man” on Kanye West’s 2010 track “Power.”
According to Declan Colgan Music Ltd, the owner of the mechanical rights to “21st Century Schizoid Man,” UMG has been underpaying on streaming royalties.
In 2010, West sampled King Crimson’s song without a license and uploaded it to YouTube, where it has since garnered nearly 134 million views. He also included the track on his fifth album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.”
When DCM learned of West’s copyright infringement, they contacted UMG, who reached an arrangement with DCM two months later, authorizing West to sample the King Crimson track in exchange for a 5.33 % fee on each copy of “Power” sold or “otherwise exploited.”
As part of the licensing agreement with UMG, West was required to pay DCM a royalty on the same basis that it receives royalties from CD sales.
However, according to DCM’s lawsuit, UMG “has failed, and continues to fail, to comply with its royalty accounting obligations regarding one mode of exploitation, namely the making available of the Power recording to consumers through so-called’ streaming’ services.”
Based on the 2010 contract, they argue that UMG should be paying streaming royalties based on what the company would have received if those streams were CD sales.
As a result, DMG is now seeking payment of all sums due, including interest, and a declaration setting out the correct basis for accounting for streaming royalties.
Oklahoma Governor Signs Ban That Would Block People From Updating Their Gender Markers On State Birth Certificates, Documents
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt has signed off on a bill that bans nonbinary gender markers from being included on in-state documents.
On Tuesday, Stitt made history as the first U.S. state to ever have a ban that blocks nonbinary gender markers from being placed on state documents, including birth certificates. While many states around the country have opted to provide nonbinary selections, Oklahoma isn’t welcoming it.
This all comes after the Oklahoma State Department was sued by Oklahoma native Kit Loreleid, who sought to have the gender marker on their birth certificate changed to “X.” The State Department settled the lawsuit and allowed the gender marker to be updated to nonbinary, ABC News reports.
But, later, Stitt came back with an executive order that sought to ban people from changing their birth certificates to represent their gender identity. Lambda Legal is currently in an ongoing lawsuit with the state, and it aims to allow transgender people the freedom to update their gender marker on personal Oklahoma birth certificates, ABC News reports.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
MEAT AND GREET
This woman was at that point of needing a break and she saw Walmart as the perfect opportunity to take it.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
