Tia Mowry’s journey in the entertainment industry journey has been remarkable. She transitioned from being a beloved sitcom star and leveraged her experiences into becoming an accomplished actress, producer, and entrepreneur. From the iconic days of Sister, Sister to her current multifaceted career, Tia Mowry has undoubtedly expanded her reach from television to beauty, the culinary world, and beyond.
Tia Mowry catapulted into the spotlight alongside her twin sister Tamera with the hit sitcom Sister, Sister, which premiered in 1994. The show, centered around the hilarious escapades of reunited twin sisters, became a cultural phenomenon. More importantly, it served as the launchpad for Tia’s acting career. Moreover, her portrayal of Tia Landry showcased her comedic prowess and relatability at its best. Through this role, she strongly argued why she was a bankable star whose reach extends beyond sitcoms.
Teen Stardom To Young Adulthood: Navigating Hollywood Challenges
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – OCTOBER 04: Actress Tia Mowry attends the 4th Annual Give & Get Fete at SLS Hotel on October 4, 2012 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images)
As Sister, Sister came to a close in 1999, Tia faced the inevitable challenges of transitioning from teenage stardom to young adulthood in Hollywood. However, she navigated this period with grace, taking on diverse roles in television and film. Notable projects during this time include appearances in The Hot Chick (2002) and the television series Strong Medicine (2005-2006), showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Motherhood & A Return To Television: The Game and Instant Mom
Tia Mowry embraced motherhood and took a brief hiatus from the industry, but she made a triumphant return with her role as Melanie Barnett on the hit series The Game (2006-2015). Moreover, her portrayal of the ambitious medical student turned football wife earned her critical acclaim and reinforced her standing as a versatile actress. Following The Game, Tia starred in and produced the family sitcom Instant Mom (2013-2015), showcasing her skills both in front of and behind the camera.
Venturing Into Reality TV & Lifestyle: Tia & Tamera & Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix
Tia Mowry and her sister Tamera opened up their lives to audiences with the reality series Tia & Tamera (2011-2013). The show offered an intimate look into their personal and professional lives, further endearing Tia to fans. Additionally, Tia’s foray into lifestyle content began with her YouTube channel and evolved into the popular series Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix. The show covers a range of topics, from cooking and parenting to beauty and wellness, showcasing Tia’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Beyond Acting: Entrepreneurship & Authorship
HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 24: Actress Tia Mowry arrives at the Los Angeles World Premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures “Focus” at TCL Chinese Theatre on February 24, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)
Tia Mowry’s journey extends beyond the screen, as she has successfully ventured into entrepreneurship and authorship. Her cookbook, Whole New You: How Real Food Transforms Your Life, For A Healthier, More Gorgeous You (2017), further reflects her passion for healthy living and authentic, delicious recipes. In addition, her line of supplements, Anser, emphasizes her commitment to overall well-being.
As Tia Mowry continues to make her mark in the industry, her journey stands as a testament to her resilience, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether on screen, in the kitchen, or through her lifestyle brand, Tia consistently evolves while staying true to her authentic self. As audiences eagerly await her next projects, Tia Mowry’s career journey remains an inspiration for aspiring actors and entrepreneurs alike, showcasing the enduring power of talent, versatility, and determination.
Playboi Carti is an artist who has evolved with every single one of his albums. Although some critics panned him early on for his lack of lyrical prowess, there is no doubt that his music aged well. In an era where many artists have been forgotten, Carti has managed to obtain a cultish fanbase that heralds all three of his albums as classics. Firstly, you have his self-titled project from 2017, which gave us classics like “wokeuplikethis*” and “Magnolia.” Subsequently, “Die Lit” offered up some of Carti’s most ethereal tracks yet. From the intro “Long Time” to the ravenous banger “RIP,” Carti showed that he is not just a one-trick pony.
However, it was Whole Lotta Redthat showcased just how willing Carti is to change. “Rockstar Made” kicks off the album with blazing synths and hard-hitting 808s that mimic thrash metal aesthetics. Songs like “Stop Breathing,” “Jump Out The House,” and “New Tank” furthered this sound and made WLR a standout in Carti’s discography. In that same breath, it is also his most polarizing project. Why? Because it’s different. Instead of giving fans Die Lit Pt. 2, he offered up something that was made with his own tastes in mind.
It has been over three years since Whole Lotta Red and fans have been hungry for something new. Back in December of 2023, Carti revealed that his new album would be coming soon. The title: I Am Music. It is quite the declaration, although not a surprising one coming from the man who describes himself as a “narcissist.” Following this announcement, we got a now-iconic DJ Swamp Izzo-infused snippet and a new track that was posted on his second Instagram account. The title of the track has been disputed, however, it is now called “Different Day” after originally being called “Ur The Moon.”
Based on Carti’s recent concerts, fans were expecting a continuation of his Whole Lotta Red era. Instead, they got something completely different. On “Different Day,” Carti finds himself delivering some of the sharpest flows of his career. Moreover, he is now rapping over dark and brooding soundscapes that lean on being atmospheric. His voice is barely recognizable on the track, but it suits the production well. As one can imagine, this single confused fans, although his next track would act as an “aha” moment.
“2024”
With production from ojivolta, earlonthebeat, and Kanye West, “2024” is arguably the best of the five songs Carti has dropped over the past couple of months. While this song is much more uplifting thanks to the vocal sample and drum selections, Carti continues to experiment with his new register. His “put him on the news” refrain is catchy as hell, especially as it leads into his voice shift in the middle of the song. Here, he gives us the same voice he offered up on Travis Scott’s “FE!N.” It was a great choice as it almost feels like Carti is featuring his own alter ego on his song. Not to mention, it proved that “Different Day” was not a fluke. It was a declaration that this new era and new sound is what fans should expect from here on out.
Following the hype of “2024,” Playboi Carti returned with another brooding and sinister track called “H00DBYAIR.” With some of Carti’s best rapping of his career, it is clear that he was looking to make a statement here. “All my friends are dead, leave em in the cold, put em in the tundra” is an immediate rewind moment on the track. Carti’s lyrics have never elicited these kinds of reactions, although it’s clear he is looking to change that and it is certainly appreciated.
On New Year’s Day, Playboi Carti teamed up with Travis Scott for “BACKR00MS.” Much like the previous three tracks, the beat was lowkey and downright demonic. Carti delved deep into his lower register and even changed up his inflections to match the sinister energy of the beat. While Scott didn’t have much to say on the song, his flow was good enough to complement Carti’s vibe. What matters, however, is that it was yet another continuation of the new sound. While some of Carti’s previous projects have been all over the place in terms of sound, I Am Music is proving to be nothing but a bundle of cohesion.
“EVILJ0RDAN”
Lastly, Carti blessed fans last night with his fifth and most recent single of the rollout, “EVILJ0RDAN.” Upon listening to the track, you are met with production that will prove familiar if you’ve been staying up to date on the rollout. This is the track that went viral thanks to the DJ Swamp Izzo ad-lib snippet. Thankfully, the song lives up to the hype as Carti slides on the beat with menacing flows and the lyrics to match. It’s a song that aims to make a statement, and it succeeds.
Out of all of his new tracks, “EVILJ0RDAN” may prove to be the most effective thesis statement for his new album. It contains his new flow, his new penchant for lyricism, devilish production, and a hunger that showcases just how eager Carti is to elevate his standing in hip-hop. While some may not like this new direction, it is refreshing to hear an artist of Carti’s caliber change things up. With artists in every genre leaning on formulas that have stood the test of time, Carti is evolving…again.
Despite dropping these songs, there is still no release date in sight. Furthermore, he continues to delay his tour amid issues with his Opium signees, Homixide Gang. At this point, fans are in the dark, and they are hoping for the album sooner rather than later. After all, none of the singles are on streaming, and only two can be found on Carti’s official YouTube channel. However, the music has been so good that fans have been willing to look past this.
If there is one thing for sure, it is that this is Carti’s most exciting evolution yet. Sure, Whole Lotta Red was different, but it still made sense based on Carti’s previous works. Now, he is shifting his sound entirely and it’s paying dividends. Matched with unique visuals that boast a DIY aesthetic, it’s obvious the artist has a clear vision that could very well culminate in the best album of the year. On the flipside, this rollout could come back to haunt him. He has dropped five singles, and if continues down this trajectory, the album may lose its luster. Or, he could drop the album tomorrow only for the five already-released singles to be the only standouts. It’s a risk, albeit an exciting one. Only time will tell whether or not Carti sticks the landing.
Hip Hop and fashion have stood side by side since the beginning of the music genre. Since its inception, the brew of creativity and individualized self-expression has long defined the culture. Having emerged from New York in the early 1970s, Hip Hop was born out of a confluence of Black American, Latinx, and Jamaican cultures. For many, at the time of its founding, it was either an escape or a way to voice the many socio-economic and political realities of the Black man. Naturally, fashion quickly became an important part of Hip Hop’s legacy.
From its genesis, up until contemporary times, Hip Hop has shaped trends in the musical and fashion worlds. Pointing out some of the trailblazers and iconic figures that dared to dissent from the status quo; let’s take a journey through the evolution of Hip Hop and fashion.
1970s
Hip-hop fashion relating to graffiti art, New York, New York, June 28, 1975. (Photo by Allan Tannenbaum/Getty Images)
The marriage between Hip Hop and fashion existed long before the genre was created and pushed into the mainstream. The style of the Bronx greatly developed the Hip Hop scene during the 70’s. MCs and DJs were the exemplars of the time and the ones whose fashion choices were emulated. The founding DJs, DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and their succeeding counterparts were the fashion icons during these times. As a result, baggy clothes, bomber jackets, and individualized hairstyles like Afros and cornrows reigned supreme. Sportswear brands like Adidas, Pro-Keds, Puma, Converse, and Kangol also took the top spot for fashion picks.
American hip hop group Run-DMC (American rapper Joseph ‘Run’ Simmons, American musician and DJ Jason ‘Jam Master Jay’ Mizell (1965-2002), and American rapper Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels) attend the 1987 Soul Train Music Awards, held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Santa Monica, California, 23rd March 1987. Run-DMC won the awards for ‘Best Rap Single’ for ‘Walk This Way; and ‘Best Rap Album’ for ‘Raising Hell’. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
From the early to mid-80s, Run-D.M.C and LL Cool J stood as the pacesetters musically and stylistically. Their brands reinforced the staple Hip Hop look of sportswear, bucket hats, and large chain accessories. During their run, the female Hip Hop trio, Salt-N-Pepa also broadened the range by wearing bold and colorful outfits paired with asymmetrical hairstyles and statement accessories. The style of the 80’s moved ahead when Harlem’s Dapper Dan, known as the “fashion outlaw,” merged high fashion luxury and Hip Hop streetwear. The Shirt Kings were also a prominent brand in the Hip Hop scene at the time. Some of the biggest rap artists of the ‘80s wore their designs, and they are regarded as one of the originators of streetwear style.
NEW YORK CITY – MAY 12: Actors Chris “Play” Martin and Chris “Kid” Reid attend Comic Relief Benefit on May 12, 1990 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
As the 1990s rolled in, a new wave of fashion trends began to emerge. Names like Tupac, Notorious B.I.G., NWA, and more took the stage. The hi-top fade haircut, oversized jerseys and baseball caps were the most notable features of the Kid ‘N’ Play duo. The Fresh Prince, Will Smith, further stamped these looks. Tupac Shakur’s renegade style was also a new addition to the fashion scene.
Representing the West Coast, he sported bandanas, Timberlands and many other statement fashion items. The East Coast star, Notorious B.I.G., had undergone different eras of fashion styling. Reinforcing the traditional baggy aesthetic at the start of his career, the rapper switched up the game with a Mafioso look, wearing tailored suits and gold canes. Fashion brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren became associated with Hip Hop during the 90s. Stars like Snoop Dogg famously donned their designs.
Furthermore, Some other influential designers of this era include streetwear pioneer Karl Kani and April Walker, CEO of Walker Wears. Daymond John, CEO of FUBU, one of the most iconic clothing brands in Hip Hop history is also responsible for many emulated fashion looks.
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 5: American R&B singer Aaliyah, aka Aaliyah Dana Houghton (1979-2001) poses for a photo backstage at Madison Square Garden for Lifebeat’s Urban Aid benefit concert on October 5, 1995 in New York City, New York. (Photo by Catherine McGann/Getty Images)
Aaliyah quickly rose to prominence, not just for her music, but with her fashion-forward style. Emerging as a stylist’s darling, she found favor with several notable fashion brands, particularly Tommy Hilfiger. Aaliyah stood out among a crop of female R&B stars, proudly donning tomboyish clothing. With baggy pants, crop tops, and sportswear, she served to influence several artists after her
Missy Elliot was another trendsetter not just in her futuristic Hip Hop sound, but in her fashion choices. Her fusion of baggy fashion and an avant-garde, innovative style cemented her as an eclectic style-bender. One of the blueprints for the female hip-hop style today was female rapper, Lil’ Kim. The style icon was popularly known for her colorful lyrics and wigs, provocative costumes and glamorous accessories. Renowned stylist and fashion designer Misa Hylton played a key role in shaping the visual aesthetics of the iconic rapper.
Furthermore, Lil Kim embodied the sexy, high-fashion style that has become synonymous with today’s women in rap. With her groundbreaking sophomore album, Notorious K.I.M., she solidified herself as a fashion icon. Donning major names like Versace, she showed off an allure that made top brands hungry to showcase their outfits on female rappers.
MIAMI – OCTOBER 13: Rappers Cam”ron and the Diplomats arrives at The Source Hip-Hop Music Awards 2003 at the Miami Arena on October 13, 2003 in Miami, Florida. The show will air on the BET network on November 11, 2003 at 8:00 p.m. (Photo by Frank Micelotta/Getty Images)
Above all, Hip Hop and fashion had blended to create so many statement styles synonymous to the culture. Nonetheless, the new millennium brought a new epoch of modern hip-hop fashion. Artists like Jay-Z and P. Diddy shifted the course of Hip Hop fashion by taking on a more opulent style. They traded in their initial baggy look for fur coats, bigger diamond jewelry and tailored suits; representing much of what they rapped about. The iconic group, The Diplomats, also known as Dipset, contributed to the Hip Hop style of their time. Oversized jerseys, bandanas, and designer brands like Gucci and Versace characterized their style. Their fashion sense became correspondent with the Harlem scene from the late 90s to the early 2000s.
In addition to these styles, skatewear fashion was popularized in the Hip Hop scene by artists like Pharrell Williams, N.E.R.D, and the Neptunes. Also, names like Kanye West and the late, great Virgil Abloh have further pushed the boundaries of what Hip Hop style can embody.
