Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/06/karen-civils-live-civil-day-june-29th-2018-elizabeth-nj/

ELIZABETH, N.J. — Karen Civil, Adidas, and Beats by Dre will team up for the 2nd Live Civil Day Basketball Tournament at the Mickey Walker Recreation Center (860 Anna St.) in Elizabeth, NJ. On June 29, 2017 at 3 p.m. A host of games for the neighborhood kids, a youth basketball tournament, and pure fun will be provided for the community of Elizabeth, N.J.

Two basketball organizations: S.O.A.R. Program and Rich Tabor’s New Life basketball team will go head-to-head in the highly-anticipated live basketball competition. Both teams will be gifted brand new customized basketball uniforms, sneakers, book bags from the global sportswear brand Adidas, and headphones from Beats by Dre. Civil will again aim to bridge the separation gap amongst the youth of Elizabeth by uniting different organizations that best represent Elizabeth’s melting pot.

Civil is dedicated to addressing and meeting the needs of underserved youth in the city she grew up in and is consistently doing so through her philanthropy.

”In efforts to encourage, uplift, and inspire, Live Civil Day was started to promote the youth to stay fit, active, and motivated. It serves as a tool to deliver the importance of health and wellness while bringing  the  community  together for a positive cause. As an Elizabeth Native, I have the responsibility to give back to my community. I want the students to know that they can create the life they dream of despite the odds that are stacked against them,” stated Karen Civil.

In 2017 during the inaugural Live Civil Day, Civil was joined by Jersey native, Kyle Anderson of the San Antonio Spurs. He shared the importance of staying healthy while giving insight on what it takes to be a NBA athlete. Over 200 youth were gifted Adidas apparel, sneakers, book bags and Beats by Dre, and 10 lucky ticket holders won brand new bikes. Kyrie Irving of the Cleveland Cavaliers participated in Live Civil Day by gifting 1 lucky teen with a signed jersey. Karen was surprisingly presented with the “Key to the City” of Elizabeth, NJ and recognized for the work she does in the community. This bestowed honor made Civil the fourth and youngest recipient in the last 25 years to receive the key.

“Live Civil Day is a day of positive giving back, to the youth and families throughout Elizabeth. I on behalf of the city of Elizabeth truly thank Karen for giving back to our residents. Karen’s belief in empowering communities across the country is welcomed home and she is paying it forward to the Elizabeth community that assisted in her success,” stated Patricia Perkins-Auguste, Council Woman-At-Large.

To learn more about Karen Civil, visit www.KarenCivil.com and connect with her on all social media platforms @KarenCivil. Join the conversation by using #LiveCivilDay

About Karen Civil:

Karen Civil is one of the most recognizable forces in entertainment. As a global marketing content creator, she has developed powerful influence in culture and bridged the gap between brand powerhouses and mainstream artists over the years.

Karen Civil has become a humanitarian for charitable causes that specifically benefit children, Haiti, where she founded the Live Civil School and playground in 2015 and youth of the city of Elizabeth, NJ, where  she was raised. To further build awareness of the Live Civil brand and to provide everyday tools for empowerment and entrepreneurship, Karen self-published her first book, Be You & Live Civil: Tools for Unlocking Your Potential & Living Your Purpose. The motivational guide has sold over 300,000 copies and spawned a 40-city tour across the globe.

The prominent businesswoman has helped shape careers, curate experiences and emphasize the digital impact for Nipsey Hussle, YG, Jeezy, Nicki Minaj, Dave East, Andre Berto, Pusha T and Nick Cannon. Along with her undeniable influence in entertainment, her reach has expanded into the political sphere as she became an integral part of the social media marketing campaign and official rally host for 2016  Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

source:
Keeyah Johnson Hello@AllThingsKeeyah.com
Bella Smith bellaaworks@gmail.com

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/06/inner-city-youth-orchestra-of-los-angeles-prepares-for-its-10th-annual-season-finale-watch/

*(Via ReelUrbanNews) – The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles/ICYOLA will bring its music to the Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall on July 1 at 3 p.m. Committed to the artistic, personal and professional development of young musicians, the orchestra will perform its 10th Annual Season Finale at the venue located in the heart of Los Angeles.

Charles Dickerson, founder and conductor of the ICYOLA, shared his enthusiasm with Reel Urban News about the young instrumentalists who comprise the celebrated orchestra.

“I have the most wonderful young people in the world that I have the privilege of working with,” said Dickerson. “I am proud of these young people and we are excited about putting on our 10th season finale.”

ICYOLA is a member of the League of American Orchestras and is a national leader in the effort to assure diversity in the arts. “Our orchestra is made up of a lot of first violins, a lot of second violins, a viola section, a cello section and a bass section,” explained Dickerson. “We began this orchestra in 2009. Nine African American young people came to me and asked if could we start this orchestra.

“Since that time, we’ve expanded beyond just serving the African American community. Most members of this orchestra are from communities of color.”

Through its music, the orchestra has addressed several high profile social issues that challenge black life in America including the murder of Trayvon Martin and the death of Michael Brown at the hands of law enforcement. During their 10th Annual Season Finale, ICYOLA will premier Dickerson’s new piece, “This Is Why We Kneel,” a song inspired by the protests of former and current NFL players.

Get the rest of this article at ReelUrbanNews.com.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/05/jeffrey-osborne-releases-first-rb-album-of-original-songs-in-13-years-pt2/

*Before ever stepping out as a solo artist, Jeffrey Osborne a/k/a “JO,” had earned the respect of music fans as a bonafide singer, when in the 1970s he was the lead vocalist for the R&B/funk band, L.T.D.   The group charted with such songs as “(Every Time I Turn Around)Back in Love Again,” “Holding On (When Love is Gone,” “We Both Deserve Each Other’s Love,” and of course, the timeless and beautiful “Love Ballad.”

For Osborne, the music and recording industry has evolved over the past five decades, and not always for the best.

“Everything has changed since I started recording in 1972,” Osborne said. “But the very things that have opened this industry, like the digital platforms to reach more people, have also killed things that were happening before in the recording studio.  Now, most of the time, there are no real musicians in the studio; its people with sequencers and things.  Therefore, there’s no breath or depth in today’s music.”

While Osborne still loves recording, it’s the live performances that he most looks forward to.

“The only real satisfaction is live performances,” explained Osborne.  “That’s when you can actually get some feedback from what you’re doing.  You get that artist-to-audience chemistry. I love it!”

RELATED NEWS: Jeffrey Osborne Releases First R&B Album of Original Songs in 13 Years – LISTEN (Pt.1)

With his new album, Worth It All (available now), Osborne fans can expect that he will do his share of live performances.  However, don’t look for extended tours.

“I really don’t tour anymore,” said Osborne.  “I’m more of a weekend warrior, and during the week I’m home with my family.  I’m not going go out on the road for two months anymore.  I don’t have to do that, and I don’t want to do that.  But I still love and enjoy the artist-to-audience interaction that live performances present, so I won’t ever stop doing what I like doing at live stage performances.  It’s just that I can pick and choose when I go out.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/06/concert-promoter-alleges-famed-singer-jennifer-holliday-duped-her-out-of-money-eur-exclusive/

*Kimberly Williams is a Chicago-based event promoter turned newbie concert promoter who has legitimate beef with “Dreamgirls” singer Jennifer Holliday.

Williams has alleged that Holliday refused to return a $2,000 deposit to her when Holliday pulled out of a concert she allegedly agreed to perform at in the Windy City in July 2018.

Williams told the EUR in a phone interview that the new venture started out as a labor of love before things turned sour. (Please note: EUR reached out to Jennifer Holliday regarding the accusation, but did not receive a response by press time).

“I decided because I always loved the entertainment business that I would give it a try and do concerts,” Williams told EURweb’s Lee Bailey. “I planned and had a successful concert in December 2017 and said I would move forward and get different artists, especially artists I look up to, admire, and love – with one of them being Jennifer Holliday.”

“So I reached out to her,” Wiliams continued. “I sent her the first contact through Instagram and she wasn’t available for the concert I was going to do in April. So, I let her know that I have another date, July 28, and she was available. She agreed to do the concert and we discussed the deposit.”

Since Williams wanted to start promoting the performance immediately at an upcoming black expo, according to Williams, Holliday wanted a deposit of $2,000 before any type of publicity began. Williams immediately obliged and thought things were set.

Williams started moving full speed ahead in posting the event on social media and knocking out opening acts. However, things started to turn shortly afterward and in early May, Holliday backed out.

“What is really going is that she decided to cancel the concert for what reason I cannot tell you. I do not know why she will not return my deposit.”

According to communications between Williams and Holliday that Williams provided to the EUR, Holliday never explicitly said why she reneged on the concert. However, the “And I Am Telling You” powerhouse had a variety of issues with Williams. Some of the concerns included Williams being a fresh face in concert promoting, to booking opening acts that Holliday did not approve of, and to publicizing the event on social media before final approval from the singer. Whatever the reason(s), Williams is fed up.

“I sent her a series of emails saying, ‘Hey listen give me my money back. Since you decided to cancel, return the deposit,’” Williams told EUR. “She cancelled on May 5th and we actually booked everything on April 5th. She never replied. My last email was, ‘If you don’t respond to me I am going to do whatever I need to do to try to retrieve my funds and to make sure that you don’t do this to anyone else, if you haven’t already.’ She didn’t reply.”

Continuously ignored by Holliday, according to Williams, the promoter revved up her tactics.

“I looked up and saw upcoming events that she would be performing at and sent emails to the people who were hosting those events,” Williams said. “I only told the truth. I told them I think that you should know that Jennifer Holliday decided to cancel an event and she is refusing to return my deposit. I sent emails to several events that she would be performing at because again I don’t want this to happen to anyone else.”

Williams, added: “I filed a complaint with the better Business Bureau and she (Holliday) responded that I was being unprofessional and that she thinks we have to have this out in front of a lawyer. But I’m not being unprofessional, ‘you’re the one trying to keep my money.’ She even had her attorney email me to stop contacting her because (she hasn’t) returned my money.”

While the Better Business Bureau marked the case “closed” and “unresolved,” Kimberly Williams is not backing down. For more on Williams’, check out her Instagram here. Meanwhile, we’ll will keep you posted on any updates, especially if Jennifer Holliday and/or her representative respond.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/05/pusha-t-claims-drake-is-denying-secret-lovechild-on-blistering-new-dis-track-the-story-of-adidon-listen/

*Fans are declaring Drake *dead* after rapper Pusha T’s latest track in their ongoing beef dropped Tuesday night. Among the shots fired is the longstanding claim that Drake has a secret child with a porn star and is too ashamed to claim the baby.

“The Story Of Adidon” premiered on Hot 97 Tuesday and was later posted to Pusha T’s SoundCloud. It spares no one in Drake’s orbit, not even the rapper’s parents or his producer’s multiple sclerosis.

“OVO 40 hunched over like he’s 80. Tick, tick, tick. How much time he got? That man is sick, sick, sick,” Pusha raps, targeting Drake’s longtime producer Noah “40” Shebib, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2005.

Drake has long denied that he has a baby with French artist and porn actress Sophie Brussaux, who still claims that the Toronto rapper is the father of her child.

“Sophie knows better, ask your baby mother. Cleaned her up for IG, but the stench is on her,” Pusha raps. “A baby’s involved, it’s deeper than rap. We talkin’ character, let me keep with the facts.”

According to TMZ, Brussaux had documented her pregnancy on Instagram, culminating with a pic of baby Adonishimself (see above).

The track borrows its beat and title from Jay-Z’s “The Story of O.J.,” the “4:44” single that tackles what it means to be a black person in modern America.

“The Story of Adidon’s” album art features an image of Drake in blackface – an image Pusha T claims is an unedited image taken by famed photographer David Leyes.

The song is a response to Drake’s diss track “Duppy Freestyle.” Listen to that above, and Pusha T’s response, “The Story Of Adidon,” below.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/honoring-ancestors-at-festival-of-masks-in-leimert-park/

Los Angeles – Hundreds gathered on the People’s Street in Leimert Park on a recent Saturday to partake in the spirit filled celebration of Day of Ancestors: Festival of Masks, presented by LA Commons. This years festival highlighted Brazil and its diasporic artistic connections to Leimert Park. Salvador DE Bahia has the second largest Black population in the world outside of Nigeria.

The spirit of the Ancestors could be felt. The celebration occurred on another picture perfect day, in beautiful Southern California. The diverse crowd demonstrated enthusiasm as the positive energy flowed throughout Leimert Park for the event.

An eclectic mix of World music was played as people gathered on the People’s Street to put the finishing touches on their masks, floats, costumes for the Procession.

Day of the Ancestors: Festival of Masks is held every year in June, in conjunction with the monthly Leimert Park Art Walk. Leimert Park Art Walk promotes the area’s vibrancy, culture, legacy and economy.

The theme for the 2018 Day of the Ancestors: Festival of Masks was “Asuwada” a Yoruba principle describing an energetic phenomenon that arises when a community unites with a collective positive intention in pursuit of a common goal for the greater good. Asuwada highlights the importance of compassion and solidarity in a time of unprecedented divisiveness.

The program got underway with a traditional African Libation/Blessing with Baba Imodoye Shabazz, speaking in Yoruba, Spanish and English. Marcus Aquilar, Anahuacalmecac Danza Azteca recited a Prayer in Spanish.

The Blessing and Prayer were followed by an hour long Procession around Leimert Park with various categories: Ancestors, Justice, Peace & Love, Health and Unity.

The participants in the Processions consisted of the Queen Mothers, Kehinde, Anahuacalmecac Danza Azteca, Los Angeles Carnival, Kouman Kele West African Dance & Drum Ensemble, Viver Brasil, Magatte Fall & Generation Percu, Twin Puppets and Los Angeles Carnival.

Viver Brasil dancers Rachel Hernandez and Ashley Blanchard accompanied by drummers Kahlil Cummings and Luiz Badera performed Oia/Iansa- Orixa of Winds & Storms and Ancestors.

Drummer Magatte Falls & Generation Percu delighted and thrilled the audience with their master drumming techniques.

Kouman Kele West African Dance & Drum Ensemble led by Nzingha Camara put on a high-octane, powerful show that left the crowd and I in awe and wanting to see more of their splendid artistry.

The Queen Mothers performance were also a real treat along with Kehinde. The festival concluded with a massive, thunderous drum circle led by Kahlil Cummings, members of Viver Brasil, and the community in keeping with this year’s theme “Asuwada.”

Source: 

*Turns out Roseanne Barr called into a podcast just two days after ABC cancelled her sitcom “Roseanne,” but the host decided at the time not to release the podcast…until now.

Barr hit up Rabbi Shmuley Boteach’s podcast, which was recorded at Stand Up NY in New York City on May 31, according to The Blast. Barr and Boteach have been friends for 20 years.

“I’m a lot of things,” a tearful Barr tells him. “I’m a loudmouth and all that stuff, but I’m not stupid, for God’s sake, and I never would have wittingly called a black person … say they are a monkey. I never would do that! And I didn’t do that.”

Barr says in the interview that she is sorry if people thought that her tweet — where she said of Barack Obama’sadviser, Valerie Jarrett, “Muslim brotherhood & planet of the apes had a baby=vj” — was intentional.

“I am so sorry,” she says, “that I was so unclear and stupid. I’m very sorry but I don’t think that, I never would do that.”

Barr also acknowledges the cancellation of her show and the effect it had on her career.

“I’ve lost everything,” she says. “And I regretted [the tweet] before I lost everything and I said to God, ‘I am willing to accept whatever consequences this brings because I know I’ve done wrong.’ I’m willing to accept what the consequences are. And, I do. And I have.”

He tweeted, “[M]y podcast interview w/ my friend @therealroseanne Roseanne Barr will go live on @JPost Jerusalem Post. The podcast is an emotional discussion of the 4 stages of Jewish penance and Roseanne shows moral courage & heart in accepting responsibility.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/all-that-jazz-more-at-st-andrews-recreation-center-photos/

Los Angeles – the City of Los Angeles Presents Jazz at St. Andrews Recreation Center, hosted by City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Southwest Neighborhood Council and Assemblymember Autumn Burke.

This hot Summer Jazz Festival was held on Sunday, July 1, 2018. The return of Jazz at St. Andrews Recreation Center has also been dubbed Function at the Junction.

Several thousand people gathered at St. Andrews Recreation Center for a relaxing afternoon of jazz, R&B and soul music. A mosaic of colorful blankets, chairs, umbrella’s and canopies dotted across the grass.

Radio Personality James Janisse returned to serve as Master of Ceremony. Board member Brent Page greeted and welcomed the crowd to this family friendly event on this awesome afternoon in Southern California. Dr. Turner Roberts got the festival underway with an Opening Prayer.

The live musical portion of the festival got going with a dynamic set of straight ahead jazz provided by the Michael Session Quintet. The group was led by Michael Session on saxophone, Maia-flute/harp, Zekkereya El-Magharbal-trombone, Tateng Katindig-keyboards, Trevvor Ware-bass and Mekela Session-drums. People were bopping and swaying throughout the grounds of the Recreation Center on the tunes “Double Up” by Lee Morgan, “Road to Cairo,” “Pretty Eyes” by Horace Silver with Maia on vocals. They concluded their tight set with two tunes by the late great Nate Morgan pianist/composer, “Dred Scott,” and “Donde a la Shea?”

The Elliott Caine Quintet continued in a straight-ahead mode with a crowd pleasing set of all originals on the tunes “Le Super Cool,” “La Resentencia,” and a Latin tinged “La Verdad es La Verdad” to name a few. The band consisted of Elliott Caine-trumpet/flugle horn, Scot Gilmon-tenor sax, Rick Olsen-piano, Trevvor Ware double duties on bass, and Kenny Elliott-drums.

The crowd got livelier and were getting their groove on during the captivating performance by Keschia Potter, on alto saxophone. Keschia Potter played material fro her latest CD Rebirth of the Soul- The Awakening. The crowd was able to connect and rekindle their souls throughout her high-octane set on the tunes “Happy People” by Kenny Garrett, “Mo Better Blues,” “Knocks Me Off My Feet” by Stevie Wonder, “Free to Be” by Keschia Potter featuring talented vocalist Maiya Sykes, “Crazy,” and a tight arrangement of “Winelight” by Grover Washington Jr.

Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson presented former NBA great Norm Nixon for the engaging basketball clinic for the youth of the community.

R&B/soul group Switch took the crowd down memory lane with some of their popular hits from their catalog. The crowd was up and dancing and singing along to the following songs “There’ll Never Be,” “Call Your Name,” “I Wanna Be With You,” “Love Over & Over Again” to name a few.

R&B soul Balladeer/Crooner Kenny Lattimore closed out the 3^rd Annual Jazz at St. Andrews Recreation Center with a wonderful set featuring tunes from his latest CD as well as past favorites.

This year’s festival was made possible by the generous donations of the following sponsors Assemblymember Autumn Burke, Brotherhood Crusade, Empowerment Congress Southwest Area, Farmer John, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, City of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation and Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/06/scorpion-drakes-summer-surprise-is-now-out-listen/

*No matter what you views are about Drake, you can’t deny that the man is industrious. Even though his last album, Views, came out in 2016, he has been providing a steady supply to fans till date with EPs, singles and “playlist.”

However, 2018 will be the year that fans get to see Champagne Papi back in album mode. The album title Scorpionrefers to Drake’s Zodiac sign Scorpio, given his birthday falls on October 24. Fans, who already know the rapper’s connection to the month, were quick to make the connection.

Drake took to his Instagram account to share photos of a medallion embellished with a diamond-encrusted scorpion and a jacket with the announcement details on it. So far, we can confirm that the album will drop on June 2018, though Drake is quiet about the exact date.

Further details that can be confirmed include the return of Noah “40” Shebib and Oliver El-Khatib as executive producers. 40 alongside OVO signee Boi-1-da will be handling production on the tracks. Pi’erre Bourne, who produced Playboi Carti’s ‘Magnolia’ is also expected to have a hand in creating Scorpion. Drake confirmed this himself in an Instagram Live session when a fan inquired about whether he has recorded with producer to which Drake replied “me and Pi’erre already got one.”

OTHER NEWS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED: SECOND MAN WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN XXXTENTACION’S FATAL SHOOTING

Drake’s releases in 2018 like the singles from Scary Hours will not be part of the project although his single “Nice for What” might make it on the track list. One track that has a confirmed place on the album for now is “I’m Upset.” The track was released a day after his “Duppy Freestyle,” the rebuttal to Pusha T’s diss on his album DAYTONA.

Another thing that can be expected on the album is Drake’s Afro-Caribbean sound. Fans have already noticed the presence of Nigerian artist Tekno on his Instagram which could possibly lead to collaboration on a track.

A factor that has increased the anticipation for this album is the recent beef between Pusha T and Drake. Although it seems to have paused due to some intervention, there is no doubt that Drake would address the beef properly on tracks. Pusha T has already done some damage by alleging that Drake has a secret child. It is being rumored that Drake was going to announce this secret child on his album but Pusha T beat him to it. The beef is still developing so it’s still not known how it will affect the album. For now, we can only take the word of Drake close confidant Preme who took to Instagram after hearing some of the tracks. “And just know. That Scorpion album. Holy f*ck,” he wrote. “You should never have pissed Champagne off.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/1200-powernetworking-black-entrepreneurs-to-unite/

*The FraserNet, Inc. 2018 PowerNetworking Conference (PNC) will be held July 5-7, at the Gaylord Hotel and Conference Center, on the National Harbor in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Top global experts during the conference will focus their attention on financial literacy, business development and wealth building through personal “subject matter” excellence, effective networking and collaboration in the Black community.

“Financial illiteracy is an American problem according to the Wall Street Journal, but it is 10 times greater in Black America,” explains Dr. George Fraser, President and CEO of FraserNET, Inc. “All the studies, surveys and statistics predict if nothing changes within our community we will be financially destitute and enslaved by 2053.”

PowerNetworking

Fraser added, “Thus, we must effectively and aggressively address financial illiteracy and building million-dollar businesses in Black America.” During the conference, Fraser plans to do both and will launch “our national ‘faith-based’ WINGS Financial Education Centers and Curriculum with the goal of 10,000+ centers up and running by 2028.”

Fraser explained the curriculum will focus on a mindset shift of “instant gratification to delayed gratification” and the four pillars for the inter-generational transfer of wealth to include; proper management of accumulated wealth, real estate, business development and proper insurance.

The conference is bringing an impressive array of guest speakers and seminar presenters. One of those invitees is Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson, the founder and CEO of Be Someone Inc., a Stone Mountain, GA-based organization focused on teaching young people the principles of success by using the game of chess.

Hudson will tell the attendees they must invest in our young people If economic success is to be guaranteed. According to Hudson, “We need to be preparing the next generation of African American business leaders and entreprenuers. We are losing too many of our youth to a culture of follow instead of lead, take instead of give. As a result,” continued Hudson, “at-risk youths tend to walk with chumps instead of discovering the champ they have inside.”

Hudson will use the PowerNetworking Conference to urge the participants to take his messages to heart. “We must work together to save our young people. I for one,” he emphasized, “am tired of seeing so many Black youngsters destroy themselves by turning over their decision process to others instead of leading. Instead of looking for excuses, I teach them to look for solutions.” He adds, “Investing in our tomorrow – our children – is truly the wisest investment of all.”

The PowerNetworking Conference, is widely recognized as America’s largest continuous held conference in the world for Black executives, business professionals and entrepreneurs. This year, the PNC is expected to draw more than 1,200+ attendees from around the world. In 2015, the PNC was named one of the “Top 5 Can’t Miss” Conferences in America by Forbes Magazine. Since its inception, the PNC has produced over $750 million in new business startups and deal flow and has held 16 conferences across the United States.

For more details about the conference and/or to register, visit www.powernetworkingconference.com

About Dr. George C. Fraser

Dr. George C. Fraser is Chairman and CEO of FraserNet, Inc., a company he founded some 31 years ago, to lead a global networking movement for people of African descent. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was an orphan and foster child for 15 years. He’s written 6 best-selling books to include: Success Runs in Our Race, Click and recently, Mission Unstoppable: Extraordinary Stories of Failure’s Blessings, a book he co-authored with Les Brown. Upscale magazine named him one of the “Top 50 Power Brokers in Black America,” and Black Enterprise magazine called him “Black America’s #1 Networker.”

source:
Orrin Hudson
orrin@besomeone.org

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/cincinnati-music-festival-presents-fantasia-jill-scott-and-more/

*Premier ticket and hotel reseller, QLZ Productions, is providing ticket and hotel packages for the 2018 Cincinnati Music Festival. The iconic event will happen Thursday, July 26 to Saturday, July 28, at the Paul Brown Stadium, on the Cincinnati riverfront. Attendees will have a memorable experience with prime seating and accommodations.

“Here at QLZ Productions, we are dedicated to you and your Cincinnati Music Festival ticket and hotel needs,” says QLZ Productions partner/co-owner, Zachary Berry.

“We’ve won a number of great comments for our work with the festival. But, our most important win is making you a happy, life-long patron.”

The Cincinnati Music Festival is one of the nation’s oldest and most highly anticipated music festivals, attracting local and regional guests from across the Midwest. Each year, the festival showcases a bevy of old-school artists, along with the hottest contemporary R&B performers. Last year’s event drew a crowd of almost 50K music lovers.

This year’s line-up includes the legendary talent of Charlie Wilson, Jill Scott, Xscap3, Fantasia, Keith Sweat, Boyz II Men, Common, The Roots, The O’Jays, After 7, Bootsy Collins, DJ Jazzy Jeff and MC Lyte. Ticket prices start at $65 and are available a la carte or within a bundle. Visit www.qlzproductions.com or send an email to info@qlzproductions.com to purchase packages/tickets and for festival updates.

About QLZ Productions
QLZ Productions is a ticket and hotel reseller with over 40 years of experience. In addition to providing competitive pricing, customers receive a variety of benefits such as the choice to customize their hotel/ticket package, use payment plans, USPS certified shipping and hotel confirmation three weeks prior to the event.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/new-music-from-mary-j-blige-only-love-listen/

*As you no-doubt know, the last year or so has tumultuous for singer/actor Mary J. Blige. And that’s putting it mildly. However, that mind-boggling experience is behind her now and she’s ready to show the world that she may have been down, but she’s not out. She’s back!

And back she is with new, up-beat music and Miss Mary is sounding glorious on her new single, “Only Love.” With an big Philly Soul opening reminiscent of First Choice’s “Doctor Love,” the single gets listeners moving as Mary J preaches about the glory of love, as Soul Tracks put it, with which we totally agree.

“I’ve been in the studio working on new music and was excited to share a little bit with you all,” Mary shared on Social media. “I had a year of so many ups and downs and have come out the other side with a renewed spirit and a fresh perspective. I’m entering my next chapter with an open mind and heart. ONLY LOVE is where I am right now and I couldn’t keep it to myself any longer!!! #sisterlove #onlylove”

Well, THANK YOU for sharing Mary.  We’re looking forward to finding out what else is instore with your new project. In the meantime, enjoy “Only Love.”

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/despite-passing-of-papa-joe-janet-heads-to-new-orleans-for-essence-festival-video/

*If you’ve been paying attention, you know it’s been a pretty rough week for the Jackson clan because of the death of patriarch Joe Jackson at 89.

However, despite her father’s passing, for Janet Jackson, the show must go on! Literally. Janet will be headlining this weekend in New Orleans at the Essence Festival.

Naturally, there was concern from her fans and Essence Festival attendees that Janet would cancel her performance after Joe passed away last week. As has been reported, she and other family members were at his private funeral Monday in Glendale, California.

Sources close to Janet tell TMZ that she’s currently en route to New Orleans for the fest where she’s scheduled to perform Sunday. She also has other dates lined up through August on her State of the World tour too, which she’s also planning to fulfill.

Janet thanked her fans for their support on Wednesday in an Instagram video, where her baby son Issa also made a small off camera appearance.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/check-it-new-music-from-ciara-level-up-listen/

The new song is called “Level Up” and it comes after the birth of her daughter Sienna.

We hear the song was inspired by the controversy she caused earlier this year when she shared a sermon by pastor John W. Gray III in which he shamed single women for not carrying themselves like a wife. And if you’re wondering what the heck that means, you’re not alone.

Anyway, watch below and see if you can figure it out.

READ THIS: AZEALIA BANKS WISHES DEATH UPON WENDY WILLIAMS – D.L. HUGHLEY ON WHITE FOLKS SAYING THE N-WORD [VIDEO]

In other Ciara news, earlier we reported the singer/dancer has filed court papers against her ex Future – this time claiming that he’s becoming an absentee dad.

In new documents obtained by TMZ, the singer claims Future is missing too many scheduled visits with his three-year-old son, Future Jr.

Ciara says her ex only has made just 37 percent of his scheduled visits, and many of those are at the last minute. She also alleges that during the elder’s trips to his native Georgia with their son, the boy spends most of his time with elderly relatives, and she rarely gets to FaceTime her son to make sure he’s okay.

Ciara, who also has baby daughter Sienna Princess with husband Russell Wilson, further claims that little Future has health issues stemming from all the cross-country travel with his father, and that it’s causing him to have emotional breakdowns at school.

She’s seeking mediation with Future, so they can hammer out a better schedule for their son’s travel and for the sake of his health, TMZ reports.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/chris-spencer-and-andre-farr-host-sports-music-reunion-presented-by-carnival/

*The Sports & Music Reunion presented by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world’s largest leisure travel company, will take place on Sunday, July 8, 2018 at the award-winning hotel The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills. This exclusive event is invitation only; red carpet arrivals begin at 7 p.m. Pacific Time.

Hosted by Chris Spencer and Sports & Music Weekend creator Andre Farr, the Sports & Music Reunion marks the return of a classic—the Sports & Music Weekend—with a new bi-annual, multi-year series of special events that will bring together VIP athletes, entertainers and business leaders to party with a purpose.

Reuniting past Sports & Music Weekends hosts and celebrity attendees, The Sports & Music Reunion presented by Carnival Corp. will issue the prestigious Best By Farr awards to three prominent American business leaders:

·Arnold Donald, president & CEO of Carnival Corp., who will receive the CEO of the Year Award;

• Quintin Primo III, chairman & CEO of Capri Investment Group, a global real estate investment manager and investor in Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles, who will receive the Entrepreneur of the Year Award;
• Terry Crews, actor, artist, athlete and activist, who will receive the Leadership and Valor Award; and
• Danielle Frost, founder & CEO, A Frostchild Production, who will receive the Sports Event Producer of the Year

Andre Farr International is pleased to partner with IntraLink Global, a strategic marketing firm, and Carnival Corp., consistently recognized for its strong commitment to its customers, diversity and

community. “I am thrilled to produce the Sports & Music Reunion 2018, and honored to have such a tremendous corporate partner as Carnival Corp. Nobody blends all the aspects of these business verticals—sports, entertainment, travel and leisure—into a total lifestyle, or does it better than we do,” said Farr, CEO of Andre Farr International.

The Sports & Music Reunion will launch a multi-year series of exciting special events, including a soon to be announced annual Sports & Music Cruise with one of Carnival Corp.’s iconic cruise line brands. The company’s nine global cruise line brands include Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn. “Together with Carnival Corp. and our other important partners, we look forward to impacting lives, having fun and making this event bigger and better each year for many years to come,” said Farr.

“Carnival Corporation is honored to serve as presenting sponsor for the 2018 Sports & Music Reunion,” said Roger Frizzell, Carnival Corp.’s chief communications officer. “Congratulations to our CEO, Arnold Donald, and all the 2018 Best By Farr award winners on their much-deserved recognition and tremendous record of success. As the world’s leading cruise company, we are committed to providing extraordinary vacation experiences and consistently exceeding the expectations of over 12 million annual guests – all of which is made possible by our 120,000 passionate employees who are dedicated to building upon our legacy as a responsible corporate citizen. We are proud to support Andre Farr and his team on their important work and vision in launching The 2018 Sports & Music Reunion.”

About The Sports & Music Weekend

The Sport & Music Weekend (S&MW) is a proprietary event specifically designed to enhance, advance and educate our audience through programming that is entertaining yet also enlightening. Attended by athletes, entertainers and executive leaders, the weekend is exclusively sponsored by select corporations that embrace a high level of social responsibility and excellence in the marketplace. Content focuses on the principles of responsibility, accountability and execution, and inspires sports and entertainment industry influencers to maximize their platform and fully utilize their rights as citizens.

About Carnival Corporation & plc

Carnival Corporation & plc is the world’s largest leisure travel company and among the most profitable and financially strong in the cruise and vacation industries, with a portfolio of 10 dynamic brands that include nine of the world’s leading cruise lines. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio

features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard, as well as Fathom, the corporation’s immersion and enrichment experience brand.

Together, the corporation’s cruise lines operate 103 ships with 234,000 lower berths visiting over 700 ports around the world, with 18 new ships scheduled to be delivered between 2018 and 2023. Carnival Corporation & plc also operates Holland America Princess Alaska Tours, the leading tour company in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation & plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices.

In 2017, Fast Company recognized Carnival Corporation as being among the “Top 10 Most Innovative Companies” in both the design and travel categories. Fast Company specifically recognized Carnival Corporation for its work in developing OceanMedallion™, a high-tech wearable device that enables the world’s first interactive guest experience platform capable of transforming vacation travel into a highly personalized and elevated level of customized service.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/wework-hosts-chat-with-cannabis-expert-dr-metzler-exclusive-story-photos/

*Modern-day political voice, cultural and legal expert, Dr. Christopher Metzler looks to inform and educate people on the actual effects and uses for the cannabis plant in a talk hosted at WeWorks’ shared workspaces located inside the MOCA Pacific Design Center.  

The cannabis plant has moved from useful tool to life-destroying menace, to health aid and now has become a cash crop as many around the nation look to cash in on the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis.  Dr. Metzler has positioned himself and his practice as an expert on the subject.

Dr. Metzler obtained a Ph.D. in International Legal Philosophy from The University of Aberdeen.  A deep thinker, Dr. Metzler is the self-proclaimed ‘Catalyst in Chief’  who promotes to “Make America Nice Again” as a slogan.

This slogan adequately combines the two major philosophies behind Dr. Metzler’s movement: national politics and cannabis.  

For those not understanding cannabis culture in the United States, “Nice Cream” was the weed dealing ice cream truck from early Cheech and Chong Movies, and ‘Make America Great Again is President Trump’s campaign slogan.  The blending of the two really helps illustrate how cannabis has risen to become a national issue.

The event was hosted by Black Hollywood LIVE Executive Producer and Reelz Channel Television Host Derrial Christon who peppered Dr. Metzler with questions pertaining to the laws surrounding running a cannabis business including labeling, regulations and the limitations of the existing laws.  Following the interview, Dr. Metzler too questions from the audience.

Whose decision was it to make the cannabis plant illegal?  Who are the brave souls that fought to bring it to everyone?  Do you know if you live in one of the 30 states that have legalized some form of cannabis use?  Are you in one of the 8 states that have legalized its recreational use?

If you live in a state bordering California, just drive on down to the store with the green plus sign.  Inside you will find the answers you seek in the form of cookies, oils, and a multitude of leafy green plants, all with funny names. But what is next? How do you tell one product from another and how do you know what effects these products will have on you?

With products ranging from what looks like handmade brownies, candy packages that resemble common store-bought candies and going into prescription bottles topped with eye dropper applicators, and even air filtering systems, the cannabis dispensary is often confusing for the first time users.  So many new to the cannabis scene return with horror stories from over-consuming some cannabis products. In most claims, the vague language used in the labeling was a factor in their experience.

An example would be a consumer who buys a cookie to go to the zoo with her family on vacation.  The label says 1/25th of the cookie is a serving, but we all know how to eat a big delicious cookie with chocolate frosting on it!  Soon, her family is asking what is wrong with her, and she doesn’t seem to know.

One such person has taken up the cause of righting the problems with the legalization of cannabis.  Dr. Metzler has dedicated himself to bringing cannabis to the consumer just like lettuce or an apple inside your local grocery store.  Riding the hills of Cannabis legalization in over 30 states including California, Nevada, and Oregon, Dr. Metzler’s efforts are met with skepticism in the urban markets as these areas have seen many would be cannabis entrepreneurs barred from being granted a license while simultaneously the companies that have sprouted up in every neighborhood have gone virtually unchecked warranting new restrictions that further limit the amount of cannabis plant given free as well as the content, intensity and long-term effects of the THC infused food products known as edibles.  

What’s worse, the people who went to jail for selling weed to make money to feed their families, now are barred from selling it, now that it is legal.  Should they be granted leniency? Does not the legalization of an activity means that the former laws against it were wrong? Although this topic was not addressed in the talk, an upcoming bill was.

“The bill essentially will treat cannabis as an agricultural product,” claims Dr. Metzler.  “So cannabis will be the same as lettuce from the standpoint of federal law. Therefore, the Justice Department will have no jurisdiction to come in with any kind of regulation.”  

The talk also revolved around the laws governing how to grow cannabis.

“What is the part that people are missing?” asks Dr. Metzler. “The science says don’t treat it with pesticides.  When you start doing that, then that completely reverts back to where we are. So that is a critical component that folks have got to understand and look at that from now, rather than later.”  

“Your finding that many companies are buying up, through cryptocurrency, a number of dispensaries,” said Dr. Metzler.  “As much as Big Pharma is buying up all of this Cannabis stuff, what they are not telling you, is in fact through shell companies Big Pharma is actually in the same game.  They understand that it’s going to happen.”

“There’s an oversaturation of dispensaries and what you are going to see is regulation.  The regulation is going to be around quality control. And that’s the issue, quality control.  Allot of people who are doing it, are not doing it as they should.”

Regulation is inevitable, according to Dr. Metzer.  It basically boils down to this. A product bought at Company A should be equivalent to a product bought at Company B.  The label should say, in clear language, what the consumer is getting and what the expected effects will be. Currently, there is a lot of guesswork involved in comparing two or more products.  

The problem with edibles and regulation is that the labeling system is meaningless to the average consumer and just plainly ignored like white noise by the first time user.  I mean, what’s the difference between 10 grams and 250 grams inside an edible cookie? After all, everyone knows how to eat a cookie! And that translation of “How will this affect me?” into “I can’t do over “this” much,” is what inherently makes cannabis edibles and other food-imitating products dangerous.  Currently, companies are required to list the amount of THC in their product.  This information is meaningless if you don’t know your own personal tolerance levels. More research is necessary to get to the bottom of this issue.

Theoretically, improving the labeling system, and the number of overdoses will lower.  Now try organizing the many businessmen scampering to open up a cannabis business of some type, and organize a rating system that works.

Before a truly effective law can be placed on the ballot, an understanding of the effects of THC and TCB, a few of the active ingredients in cannabis, need to be obtained.  Could a simple swab of cheek cells and saliva be the next step to gaining this understanding?

The MelixGX Company is a DNA testing facility that claims that inside your DNA is the description of your high, and all they need are four samples to tell.  That inside your DNA are the signs that will tell their genetic engineers what types and amounts of cannabis would be effective on you to solve many problems including stress, anxiety, pain management and sleep disorders.

Some gathered questioned the true intentions of the company as DNA stands as the next frontier of science.  After all, your DNA can tell so much about a person and should be protected like your identity or your fingerprints.  The extrapolated thought is that if they can tell what kind of chemicals can affect me, why can’t they find out other things about me?  Could this information be used for nefarious purposes? Are they being compiled and sold later like our phone numbers are sold to creditors, scam artist and worse?

Stu Campbell, a representative of MelixGX, insists that only 35 of the millions of DNA markers are examined during their analysis, and the four separate Q-tips used are just in case one or more of the samples gets contaminated.  The rest of the information, including reject, unused or contaminated samples are destroyed.

For more information on Dr. Christopher Metzler go to http://drchristophermetzler.com/

Learn How Your Body Responds To Cannabis With The Help Of MelixMJ, go to https://www.melixgx.com/.

For more information about others who have cannabis-related companies go to https://www.eurweb.com/?s=cannabis.

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/sheryl-lee-ralph-to-be-honored-at-15th-mcdonalds-365black-awards/

*(OAK BROOK, IL) —  In celebration of the 15th annual McDonald’s® 365Black® Awards, the company will honor celebrities and everyday heroes who make positive contributions to the community. To date, this year’s roster of remarkable honorees includes, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown.

Additionally, college junior Tishauna Wilson will be recognized alongside this lineup to receive the McDonald’s HBCU Forward $10,000 Scholarship, for her exceptional efforts to impact the community. Hosted for a second year by actress Essence Atkins, the awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, July 8, 2018, during the 24th annual ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca Cola® in New Orleans.

The annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards honor outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. McDonald’s 365Black Awards is known for attracting various top celebrity attendees, many of whom will grace the signature gold carpet prior to the ceremony. The luncheon will feature performances by award-winning R&B swooner Dave Hollister and gospel heavy-hitter Le’Andria Johnson.

“I am proud to be recognized by McDonald’s for my commitment to community. This dedication is something that was instilled in me by my parents. They taught me that If you don’t support your community or give back to your community – then community suffers. I have made it a lifelong commitment to educate, empower and bring awareness to the epidemic of HIV/AIDS, in an effort to inspire others to live a life of better health and well-being,” says Sheryl Lee Ralph.

“I am thrilled that McDonald’s will recognize women leaders who are courageous newsmakers and pillars of inspiration, who consistently empower others to follow their dreams,” said Kenny Mitchell, McDonald’s U.S. Vice President of Brand Marketing & Content. “They embody the essence of exceptional leaders that work every day to make a difference in the communities by moving Black culture forward.”

McDonald’s 365Black Awards launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, which celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round. Follow @365Black on Twitter for updates on the award ceremony and join the conversation using #365BlackAwards.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women who are independent employers, and set their own employment policies and practices, including pay and benefits for the people working in their restaurants.For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @365Black and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds. To learn more about the 365Black initiative, visit www.365Black.com.

source:
Vaughn Alvarez
Founder/CEO
vaughn@cr8agency.com
TW/IG: @4everVaughn

Kri Peck
Managing Partner
kri@cr8agency.com
TW/IG: @kri.yung

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/4th-of-july-fireworks-extravaganza-and-music-in-exposition-park/

*Los Angeles – Los Angeles City Councilmember Curren D. Price and The New 9^th, presented the annual 4^th of July Community Festival and Fireworks Show, Wednesday, July 4, 2018.

This extremely popular Independence Day Celebration was held on the South Lawn of Exposition Park. All attendees were able to enjoy and experience a day of engaging fun with delectable food, games and activities for all ages, followed by an awesome over-the-top fireworks extravaganza around 9:00pm.

Greg Johnson, Marketing and Promotion Director, 102.3FM Radio Free KJLH served as Master of Ceremonies and welcomed early arrivals to the celebration. The live entertainment got underway at 12noon, presented by The City of Los Angeles and KJLH Radio with a stellar line-up of R&B, Soul and Latin music.

This year’s celebration featured an eclectic world music showcase allowing attendees to visually and musically travel to various countries on the 4^th of July.

Our first trip found us in the mist of Carnival, or better yet, World Cup fever in Brazil. Guadalupae D’Lushus & Sambalushus Dancers visually captivating performance was one of many highlights throughout the afternoon. The leader sang and danced to the tunes “Brazilian Funk Ain’t Got No Color,” Mas Que Nada” by Sergio Mendes and concluded with “Conga” by Gloria Estefan.

prilFoolChild is a rising star in the making. The crowd and I were pleased to be vibing with her throughout her set, along with her back dancers Luis and Coco and DJ Marco Dash. Her set featured the songs “Mangos,” “Forever,” “Highs and Lows,” and “Hear Me.”

The show continued with another crowd favorite from Los Angeles. Iman Europe dazzled the crowd with her set of original tunes accompanied by DJ Wavy Baby on the ones and twos. Iman Europe were vibing on the tunes “Let’s Ride,” “Studio,” “Blessing,” and concluded her set with “Westside.”

Tropi Corrilo aspires to preserve Afro-Tropical music and culture by honoring their roots as they write and perform innovative music that will transcend those traditions into today’s times. Throughout their set they fused sounds of Colombia (Cumbia), Puerto Rico (Bomba), and rhythms of Cuba, Trinidad Y Tabagos and Dominican Republic. Their set featured the tunes “Oye Mi Ritmo,” “Ay Morena,” “Descarga de la Selva” which allowed everyone to stretch out. They continued with “Selva de Cemento,” “Negro Yo Soy” and concluded their set with “Capital.” The band is led by Richard Hererra-congas/vocals, Amber Morse-guitar/vocals, Hector Torres-guitar, Fermin Sifontes-keyboards, Fredirico Zuniga-bass and Caityn Moss on drum. Check out their latest CD Tropi Corillo de Los Angeles on Cambio Colores Records, and/or check them out in person performing around town.

Vocalist Maurice Smith rocked the stag beginning with “Let’s Go Crazy,” followed by “Do You Remember the Time,” and “She’s Always in my Head” to name a few.

Lady KeishaCali and Guy Black introduced characters from Teen’s Titans Go! To the Movies onstage to promote the upcoming release of the movie at the end of the month.

Singer, songwriter, guitarist Tyler Conti is another person deserving of greater recognition. He held his own during his time in the spotlight on the following tunes “Like the Way You Work It,” “I Want to Rock With you,” “Time Today” and concluded his set with What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye.

Conganas took the crowd and I on our final global journey musically. They opened their set with “Azucar,” “Scheherezada,” and Vampiro Tropical” to name a few. Conganas which means “with passion” features some of the most talented and experienced players in the Los Angeles music scene today. Band members not only perform with their own bands, they are also touring musicians with some of the greatest bands and musicians in the Latin Jazz, R&B, Pop ans Soul Music genres. The musicians on this gig consisted of Christian Moraga-leader, drums/percussions, from Chile, Fermin Sifontes-keyboards, from Cuba, Juan Carlos Portillo-bass, and Joel Nunes on Eiwi, from Cuba.

The stage was LIT before the first explosive fireworks was set off with a fantastic performance by Jade Novah followed by the headlining set by YOYO.

The 4^th of July Community Festival and Fireworks Show was sponsored by The Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Los Angeles, 102.3FM Radio Free KJLH, Exposition Park California, University of Southern California, USC Civic Engagement, Arrowhead Water and McDonald’s.

Ricky Richardson is a Southern California based writer, music reviewer and photographer. Contact him via: liltampared@netzero.net

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/r-kelly-addresses-sexual-misconduct-allegations-on-new-19-minute-track-i-admit-it-listen/

*R Kelly is apparently looking to cash in on his sexual misconduct allegations with a new 19-minute song that addresses the accusations made against him by multiple young women.

Taking to Instagram Live Sunday night, the crooner teased “I Admit It,” a trap-flavored, auto-tuned response in which he sings, “I done made some mistakes,” but goes on to deny allegations of sexual misconduct. “How they gon’ say I don’t respect these women, when all I’ve done is represent (30 years)/ Take my career and turn it upside down, ’cause you mad I’ve got some girlfriends (girlfriends),” he sings.

Kelly admits to being with “older and younger [ladies]” and also references the ongoing #MuteRKelly campaign.

“I admit I f**k with all the ladies, that’s both older and young ladies (ladies, yeah)/ But tell me how they call it pedophile because that s**t is crazy (crazy)/ You may have your opinions, entitled to your opinions (opinions)/ But really am I supposed to go to jail or lose my career because of your opinion/ Yeah, go ahead and stone me, point your finger at me (stone me, yeah, yeah)/ Turn the world against me, but only god can mute me (against me, mute me)”

He gets specific about allegations charged by the parents of Jocelyn Savage, who say Kelly began dating their 19-year-old daughter in 2016 and proceeded to cut off her communication with them. The parents accuse Kelly of brainwashing, grooming, and imprisoning their daughter and multiple other women at his homes in both Chicago and Georgia. For her part, Savage said she was “totally fine [and] happy where I’m at.”

“Said I’m abusing these women, what the f**k that’s some absurd s**t (what?)/ They’re brainwashed, really? (really)/ Kidnapped, really? (really)/ Can’t eat, really? (really)/ Real talk, that s**t sound silly (yeah)/ And if you really, really wanna know (know)/ Her father dropped her off at my show (show)/ And told this boy to put her on stage (yeah)/ I admit that she was over age (age)/ I admit that I was feelin’ her and I admit that she was feelin’ me (she was feelin’ me)/ I admit that that’s the s**t that comes with/ being a celebrity (celebrity)/ I ain’t chasing these ladies, no (no, no)/ These ladies are chasing me, yeah (chasing me)

“Now I’m only saying all this s**t, ’cause how they tryna play me, yeah (yeah, oh)/ I admit that this is no disrespect to the parents (no disrespect)/ But this is my advice to you ’cause I’m also a parent (parent)/ Don’t push your daughter in my face, and tell me that it’s okay (my face, okay)/ ‘Cause your agenda is to get paid, and get mad when it don’t go your way (yeah, go way)

Kelly continues: “What’s the definition of a cult?/ Whats the definition of a sex slave?/ Go to the dictionary, look it up/ Let me know I’ll be here waiting/ Now I admit that I got some girls that love me to pull they hair (they hair)/ Now I admit that they love me to talk dirty when I pull they hair (they hair)/ Some like me to spank ’em/ Some like to get branded/ And what some of these girls want, is too much for the radio station/ Look I’m just a man y’all (man y’all)/ Not a monster or beast (no, no)/ But I admit there are times when these girls so fine, they’ll chill with a n**ga for a week (oh, for a week).”

At another point in the song, Kelly acknowledges that he himself was the victim of sexual abuse at the age of 14, singing: “Now, I admit a family member touched me (touched me, touched me, touched me)/ From a child to the age 14, yeah/ While I laid asleep, took my virginity (sleep, gini’)”

Kelly also directly addresses Jim DeRogatis, the Chicago-based music journalist who has reported on Kelly’s alleged misconduct over the last two decades:

“To Jim DeRogatis, whatever your name is (whatever your name is)/ You been tryna destroy me for 25 whole years (25 whole years, yeah)/ Writin’ the same stories over and over against (stories, stories, yeah)/ Off my name, you done went and made yourself a career (a whole career)/ But guess what? I pray for you and family, and all my other enemies (prayed for you, enemies)/ I’m not gonna let y’all steal my joy, I’m just gon’ keep on doing me (my joy, doing me).”

Listen to Kelly’s song below, followed by a transcript of the lyrics:

Source: https://www.eurweb.com/2018/07/the-hate-you-give-showcased-essence-festival-regina-hall-amandla-stenberg-and-more-photos/

*On Friday, July 6, 20^th Century FOX joined this year’s 2018 ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans to gear up for the upcoming release of the film, The Hate U Give, in theaters October 19. Fans filled the Center Stage as Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Russell Hornsby, Director George Tillman, Jr. and Author Angie Thomas gathered onstage for a special footage presentation.

In addition, the cast participated in a panel discussion about the film with Kosine, and Director George Tillman, Jr. participated in an-depth panel discussion alongside Regina King and Barry Jenkins.

Highlights of the day include:

• To kick-off the festival, fans enjoyed a special moment with Amandla Stenberg and Regina Hall at Coca-Cola Stage hosted by Fonzworth Bentley. Amandla and Regina guest judged an interactive game titled “For The Record” where festival goers battled head-to-head to guess artist/song title of mashup songs in musical categories such as: Essence 90s and Essence 2010-Today.

• In an exclusive moment at Essence Center Stage, fans had a chance to watch a special footage presentation followed by a Q&A hosted by Essence Entertainment Director, Cori Murray, with the cast, director and author. The crowd was thrilled to hear Angie talk about the title of the book T.H.U.G. and its connection to the hip hop community through the legendary Tupac Shakur.

• Later in the day Amandla, Regina and Russell headed over to the McDonalds stage for a panel discussion about the film with Kosine, co-host of BET’s man cave. Director George Tillman, Jr. also participated in an in-depth panel discussion, Black Behind the Lens: Shaping Our Stories From Script To Screen Panel alongside Regina King and Barry Jenkins on the Essence Empowerment stage. The discussion themed ‘Black Forward” highlighting the evolution of African-American culture.