Xbox expanded its sponsorship with the Los Angeles Lakers to inspire generations of athletes to reach for the stars while turning dreams into reality both on and off the court. To commemorate the occasion, Xbox has teamed up with the Los Angeles Lakers and philanthropist and NBA All-Star Dwight Howard to renovate a portion of the Boys & Girls Club of San Fernando Valley, giving club members the opportunity to dream big through the program’s new Dream Space.
The new Xbox Dream Space will allow kids to experience the joy of gaming while exploring their own passions, transforming a multi-purpose room into a state-of-the-art 20-student gaming lab – complete with all the bells and whistles, including new artwork, custom purple and gold Xbox Series S consoles, gaming PCs, screens, and more.
Dwight Howard, a long-time supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs around the country, also surprised the youngsters with a special meet-and-greet and their very own chance to team up and go toe-to-toe with the NBA champion and eight-time All-Star himself, on the court and in their favorite Xbox Game Pass titles. Howard was honored to join Xbox and the Lakers in spreading the fun of gaming to more fans in the greater Los Angeles area, inspired by the club’s common aim to promote a life of purpose and community.
Visit https://www.bgcsfv.org/ to discover more about the Boys & Girls Club of San Fernando Valley and how you can become involved.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded the grants to “preserve, and leverage their historic campuses.”
“There are 105 HBCUs across the country, and their infrastructure needs are increasingly urgent,” the National Trust for Historic Preservation said in announcing the grants.
Calling the commitment “a roadmap for preserving and celebrating the historic and hallowed places important to their institutional legacy.”
This year’s recipients are Florida A&M University, Rust College, Johnson C. Smith University, Shaw University and Voorhees College.
Yesterday (Feb. 27), history was made in the battle rap world. Remy Ma officially launched her all-female battle rap league, Chrome 23, with the inaugural “Queens Get The Money” inaugurated in New York City. In collaboration with Hot 97, the event was live-streamed on the veteran platform’s website and YouTube and hosted a voting system for each battle. It is the first time in battle rap history where the mysterious world of battle rap and mainstream hip-hop media join forces, ultimately toting battle rap culture to new heights.
Remy Ma Queens Get The Money
The “Queens Get The Money” battle card match-ups included Yoshi G versus Pristavia, Casey Jay versus O’fficial, 40 B.A.R.R.S. versus QB Black Diamond, and Ms. Hustle versus Couture. Each battle was curated by Remy Ma, with careful consideration of her well-acquainted stance on modern battle rap culture.
Yoshi G, a California native, while she has been active in battle rap for the least of the last five years, she is new to the ranks of popular female battle rappers who sparred with Pristavia, a Brooklyn representative who is fresh to the performance of battle rap; reaching popularity after just a year of impressive battles. Pristavia won against Yoshi G at 72% according to the voting system and Yoshi at 28%.
Remy Ma tested the waters of curiosity as the match-up between Casey Jay and O’fficial was deemed tricky, as the two battle rappers are members of the same crew, The Bardashians, where they share a sisterhood with fellow battle rapper, Jaz the Rapper. Also, both are springing from a losing streak, despite Casey Jay standing as a present face for female battle rap. Many battle rap enthusiasts predicted the two close friends would not tackle the battle with their signature vigor. However, such was proven wrong. While facing an injury, Casey Jay still took to the stage, even though their performance ability was limited, which is a signature for Jay. O’fficial showcased several moments of nostalgia to her most prime moments. The New Orleans native ultimately won against her Bardashian sister at a mighty 83% and Texas belle Casey Jay at 17%.
QB Black Diamond, a Connecticut native a veteran in the world of battle rap, made their return to the scene after a two-year hiatus to take on female battle rap icon, 40 B.A.R.R.S. of Boston. Arguably one of the most anticipated battles of the card, the two have an extensive history that was bombarded with turmoil. It was evident in their face-off, where the two took verbal and mental blows to one another, ultimately taking on the role for the tensest match-up out of the entire card. 40 B.A.R.R.S. delivered a signature performance with elite haymakers and metaphors, validating her prediction on QB’s adapted angles. As battle rapper, Ms. Fit, who commentated alongside fellow battle rap veteran E-Hart and battle rap analyst Reda, expressed, QB came and showcased what she does best, top bars of disrespect. 40 B.A.R.R.S. won the battle at a whopping 88%, and QB at 12%.
Ms. Hustle, a Harlem native who is respectively a legend in battle rap as the first female to battle on the stage of the Ultimate Rap League and breed popularity to pioneering female battle rap league Queen of the Ring, took on one of the culture’s most treasured acts, Couture. A Rhode Island representative by way of Liberia, Couture’s presence on the Queens Get The Money card is a reappearance back to the main stage after a two-year hiatus (aside from catching an easy body against Vic Wallace last summer on Takeova Battle League). Both Ms. Hustle and Couture are regarded as top-tier battle rappers, with Hustle’s pertinent showmanship and Couture’s clever wordplay, which were two factors of judgment for last night’s performance. Overall, Couture came out as the victor of the battle at a reasonable 65%, while Ms. Hustle came in at 35%, which some battle rap enthusiasts might say is debatable. However, it is essential to note there is a difference in perception between the voters who watched the live stream and those present in the building.
The event also featured voting categories such as “Battle of the Night,” awarded to Ms. Hustle versus Couture; “Body of the Night,” awarded to 40 B.A.R.R.S; and “Best 3 Rounds of The Night,” also awarded to 40 B.A.R.R.S. Several hip-hop stars embraced the event, including Fat Joe, Maino, Dave East, and Lil Mama. According to the commentators, hip-hop legend Rah Digga was reportedly in attendance, alongside Lady Luck, whose classic 2004 rap battle set the precedence for contemporary female battle rap. Fellow battle rappers Shooney Da Rapper, Murda Mook, Chayna Ashley, Loaded Lux, Tsu Surf, Tori Doe, Chess, Bill Collector, and URL personality Nunu Nellz were also in attendance, apace with fellow league owners Babs Bunny and Debo of Queen of the Ring.
As Black History Month comes to a close, the 2022 NAACP Image Awards cap off a month celebrating black contributions to society. After the ceremony on Saturday, February 26, the celebrating will continue in a big way with DJ Cassidy’s special Reggae edition of Pass The Mic following the 53rd NAACP Image Awards. The special, DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic: BET Afterparty 2022, brings together Reggae and dancehall icons, celebrating Reggae’s influence on hip-hop and global culture.
DJ Cassidy sat down with The Source to talk about the show, whose lineup includes artists such as Shaggy, Maxi Priest, Super Cat, Barrington Levy, Ini Kamoze, Sister Nancy, Junior Reid, Patra, and more.
The inspiration for the show came from his past experience DJing, the overwhelming success of Pass the Mic, and his passion for a wide variety of musical genres.
He describes how the overwhelming emotional response to the first Pass the Mic in July 2020 inspired him to continue and he immediately began envisioning future installments of the concept.
“Looking back, I see now that each vision was a derivative of my former record crates that I carried to each deejay gig around the world,” he explains. “Before technology changed the game, I loaded six to eight one hundred pound steel cases that each held about 100 pieces of vinyl into every New York City taxi and onto every airplane. I categorized each crate by some form genre or era of music. From the very beginning of my Pass The Mic journey, I dreamed about a Reggae edition, a manifestation of that coveted Reggae record crate. As a hip-hop kid growing up in New York City, incorporating Reggae into my deejay sets was second nature. Dancehall stars were also hip-hop stars.”
He explains how when he first began conceptualizing this edition, he “wanted to represent those iconic dancehall records that played a special role in that crate, in my repertoire, and in my life in general.”
He also emphasizes how he really wanted to represent the various diverse facets of Reggae music, unbound by era, year, or decade, stating that “each of the sixteen songs featured on this show not only holds a special place in my heart, but holds a special place in the history of Reggae music and its massive influence on hip-hop, R&B, and pop music. Some dominated the hip-hop airwaves of radio stations like Hot 97 in the 1990s, while others topped the Billboard Pop Charts in the 1980s. Some fused with R&B and achieved massive commercial success, while others remain the most sampled songs of all times. Simply put, each of these records changed the game.”
While the show will definitely have many of the Pass the Mic trademark staples, Cassidy is also quick to note that viewers are in for a special treat with some of the differences that this show promises.
“Sixteen iconic records are featured in this show, more records on one show than ever before,” he explains. “There were simply so many definitive songs I wanted to celebrate. This edition brings the rapid-fire pace of Pass the Mic to new heights.
Cassidy has also partnered with some major industry names to make the upcoming show a success. In addition to superstar television producer, Jesse Collins (who recently produced the iconic hip-hop Superbowl Halftime show) and legendary music impresario, Steve Rifkind (founder of Loud and SRC Records), Cassidy partnered with renowned Reggae renaissance woman Sharon Burke and her team of Judth Bodley and Debrina Smith. “As a producer, promoter, and manager, Sharon has been at the helm of countless iconic Reggae moments over a span of decades. I knew that with her by my side, we would create something truly special that would go down in music history”, says Cassidy.
As for the future, Cassidy has no plans to limit his Pass the Mic experience to the western hemisphere, especially since over the course of the first eight editions of Pass the Mic, one of his signature catchphrases has become, “passing the mic all over the world.”
“Through Pass The Mic, I’ve always sought to create global connections between artists and fans and build bridges between both genres and viewers. Never has that mission been more fulfilled than in this installment,” he says of the upcoming performance.
“Witnessing the massive global response that Pass The Mic: Volume One and Pass The Mic: Volume Two received, I was overwhelmed by the international influence of classic hip-hop and R&B,” he says. “I always sought for the series to connect people musically on an international level, and no edition represents that mission more effectively than this upcoming special. In the future, as Pass the Mic continues to grow both on television, the stage, and beyond, I hope to constantly expand on that mission. As Afrobeat and Reggaeton’s cultural influence continues to explode, I would love to pass the mic to the icons, past, present, and future, that shaped their global impact. During President Biden’s televised Inauguration, I passed the mic to Ozuna and Luis Fonsi in front of 40 million viewers with two records that dominated global music charts, “Taki Taki” and “Despacito.” The sky’s the limit. I’d also love to celebrate Brazilian music and pass the mic to one of my greatest musical heroes, Sergio Mendes.”
He concludes by saying that “at the end of the day, no matter the category, genre, or era of music, each installment of Pass The Mic celebrates the greatest artists and greatest songs of all time by connecting those artists to their fans in a more intimate way than ever before.”
The Black Music Action Coalition and Audiomack, an artist-first music streaming and discovery platform, today announced the launch of “Black Music Executives Are The Future,” an internship and mentorship program aimed at grooming and developing the next generation of Black executives in the music industry.
We’re teaming up with @Audiomack & @CultureFusionAgency to create our new internship and mentorship program—and yes, it’s paid. Go to https://t.co/Jkdlttk93p to learn more, and send this to someone who needs to apply! pic.twitter.com/XRdtbwg89f
As part of the initiative, Audiomack and the Black Music Action Coalition will select five Black undergraduates – or recent graduates – for three-month paid internships at Audiomack in a variety of departments, including marketing, creative design, editorial & content strategy, content operations, and tech development.
Over the duration of the program, the five participants will be allocated at least two notable music industry leaders to act as mentors. The following executives have received awards:
Amina Diop – Senior Vice President of Republic Records & Artist Manager Andrew McInnes – CEO of TMWRK; manager for Diplo, A-Trak, etc. Cortez Bryant – CEO of The Blueprint Group; served as artist manager for Lil’ Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Lil Nas X Damien Smith – Artist Manager at Full Stop Management; manager for Offset and Anderson. Paak Gordan Dillard – Artist Manager at SALXCO, manager for Doja Cat Prophet – Co-founder and co-chair of Black Music Action Coalition; Artist manager Tariq Cherif – Co-founder and CEO of Rolling Loud
“It’s disheartening to see that, of the 70 major and independent music companies, only 4.2% of high-level executives are Black,” Audiomack VP of Marketing & Brand Strategy Jason Johnson said. “As leaders in this industry, we must commit to hiring, developing and elevating Black talent to better reflect the communities that we serve. With this partnership with BMAC, our hope is to establish a strong pipeline of young, Black talent to enter the music industry and equip them with the resources to thrive.”
“If we are serious about closing the wealth gap and building an equitable industry and society, then there must be a true investment made into the next generation of Black executives and artists,” Black Music Action Coalition co-chair and artist manager Willie “Prophet” Stiggers said. “BMAC’s mission is not to only hold our industry accountable for dismantling systems that have historically prevented us from reaping the benefits of a culture we created, but to also to create new systems, new ideas and new leaders. It starts with leveling the playing field and ensuring that the executives and artists coming up, has the tools, support, resources, and access to excel. If Black lives matter – prove it.”
Prospective interns must apply HERE, create an Audiomack account, upload their résumé, select their preferred internship department, and follow Audiomack, Black Music Action Coalition, and Culture Fusion Agency on Instagram and Twitter. Applicants must submit a 300-word piece explaining why they wish to be chosen as a “Black Music Executives Are The Future” recipient and how they plan to use the opportunity to advance their careers. The application date for the program is March 4th. Following that, Audiomack and the Black Music Action Coalition will assess entries, announce program winners on March 14th, and assign beneficiaries to begin their internships on March 21st.
Congratulations to Da Brat and Jesseca. The Grammy-nominated rapper tied the knot with her fiancé, Kaleidoscope Hair founder Jesseca Dupart.
The couple, who are expecting their first child together, solidified their union of love on the numeric 2-22-22 at Horse Mansion in Fairburn, Georgia in a fairy-tale wedding, complete with a horse and carriage.
I’m blessed to be able to marry my best friend today 2•22•22 I’ve never been so cherished and appreciated and look forward to spoiling my bish for the rest of our lives….. cus the way she spoils me is indescribable
According to People, the couple married in front 100 loved ones, including Da Brats sister Lisa Raye McCoy, Jermaine Dupri, Rickey Smiley and The Real Housewives of Atlanta stars Porsha Williams, Kandi Burruss, and Eva Marcille.
Shawntae Harris aka Da Brat has been open with her relationship on display for all to see on the couples We network reality show Brat Loves Judy, which is one of the few reality shows centered around an LGBTQ couple.
Former NBA baller Royce White is running for Congress, he announced Tuesday. White is running for Minnesota’s fifth congressional U.S. representative seat, currently held by Democrat Ilhan Omar. The former Iowa State player is running as a Republican, one of three vying to square off against her.
Today I’m officially announcing that I will be running for Congress in MN-CD5 against Ilhan Omar. It’s time to clean house. God Bless America! The Fight Continues… #Godspeedpic.twitter.com/Wx3GLZ8AcY
“Ten years ago, I took on the NBA and the establishment,” he said in his video monologue. “I said that mental health was one of the greatest issues we face. And I was willing to give up my dream to fight for people I have never met. I took the lead when others wouldn’t.
White gained national notoriety for his stances on mental health and those stances ultimately prevented him from having a real shot at an NBA career despite being selected No. 16 overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA Draft. He played in only three NBA games for the Sacramento Kings during the 2013-14 season.
In the years since, White has played professional basketball in several different leagues, including being the No. 1 overall pick in Ice Cube’s Big 3’s 2019 draft. He has also spent the past several years training for a mixed martial arts career.
Kel Mitchell has taken on a new role since starring in Nickelodeon’s iconic movie Good Burger. The two-time Emmy Award-nominated actor, producer, and comedian has now dedicated his life to God and has become a minister and an author. Now he’s taking on a new role as a gospel Hip Hop artist.
In an effort to display his devotion to the Lord, Kel is releasing a new single “Blessed Mode,” in follow up to his book BLESSED MODE: 90 Days to Level Up Your Faith.
This won’t be Kel’s first stab at music. Kel grew up in Chicago where he participated in rap battles as a kid with the likes of Common, had a cameo in music videos like Kanye West’s All Falls Down.
Kel shared exclusively with The Source, “My sister worked at Metro Music, a popular music store on the south side of Chicago. One day Common came to the store and I was able to battle him, but I rapped like Kriss Kross at the time.”
The All That actor added, “I love Hip Hop. Before I did theater, Hip Hop saved my life. I loved graffiti, I was on a break dance crew, and I’m so excited to be back representing God in music.”
“Blessed Mode” will be available on all music streaming platforms on March 11.
Blessed Mode Ft. Nobigdyl Scootie Wop
Kel released BLESSED MODE: 90 Days to Level Up Your Faith on December 14, 2021 and the book focuses on his ability to use his faith to push through his eternal struggles such as depression and addiction.
As you read through the pages of Blessed Mode, you will learn that in every emotional wall there is a blessed way out! You will be breaking through these walls widening that crack of light a little bit, day by day, so you can discover God’s blessings on you.”
“I hope this book can inspire others to embrace their blessings and find strength spiritually, mentally and physically! Life is a beautiful blessing giving to us by God! I cannot wait to show the world this side of me and how to activate BLESSED MODE!!
“Blessed Mode,” will be a great continuation of Kel’s evangelism. Kel went from starring in Kenan & Kel, All That, to sharing his personal relationship with the Lord and inspiring others through faith.
Be on the lookout for his new single on March 11.
Check out one of Kel’s early rap days when he made the Billboard Charts with Immature for “Watch Me Do My Thing.”
A Super Bowl championship ring won’t likely be the only ring that Aaron Rodgers won’t be getting in 2022 as the Green Bay quarterback recently ended his engagement to actress Shallene Woodley.
The news comes just a year after Rodgers, 38, and the Divergent actress, 30, announced their engagement, much to the surprise of many.
Neither Rodgers nor Woodley provided any official information about the split, although it appears to be fairly amicable. (The couple has no children.) A source told People that “it just wasn’t working” between the two, stating that Rodgers and Woodley very different people with busy careers and there were obstacles that they couldn’t surmount. They will remain friendly; there’s no bad blood and no drama. It just didn’t work out for them.”
Some have speculated that the split might have been caused by their drastically different political and social views. Whereas Woodley is an outspoken activist about many causes, Rodgers has been a prominent figure in the fight against mandated Covid-19 vaccinations.
Neither has posted anything on Instagram since the breakup announcement.
Several reports have confirmed that the prosecution in the shooting death of 20-year-old Black man Daunte Wright is seeking a 86-month prison term for the ex-cop convicted of killing him after previously stating that they would pursue a sentence well above the state’s sentencing guidelines.
Two months after former police officer Kim Potter was convicted of first and second-degree manslaughter, she will be sentenced by Judge Regina Chu tomorrow(February 18). After the smoke created by the prosecution during Potter’s trial, they filed a motion on February 15 for a standard presumptive sentence of 86 months.
The Attorney General’s office stated about the sentencing, “the appropriate sentence has to be the presumptive sentence set by the legislature until Defendant Potter can convince the Court that society’s interests, including those of Daunte Wright’s family and friends, can be met by some other disposition.”
”.
