#NewMusic: Daley Makes Long-Awaited Return With ‘Lavender’

After an extended hiatus, Daley returns with his new single “Lavender,” marking his first release since 2018. Written and produced alongside UK genre-bending producer Swindle, the track blends alternative R&B, soul and cinematic textures into a lush meditation on intimacy, escapism and emotional surrender. Opening with sweeping orchestral strings before transitioning […]

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JAI'LEN JOSEY

From Broadway to Def Jam: Jai’Len Josey Drops Debut Album ‘Serial Romantic’

Singer-songwriter, musician, and Broadway star Jai’Len Josey has officially stepped into a new chapter with the release of her debut album Serial Romantic. The project, released via Def Jam Recordings, marks a defining moment for the Atlanta-born artist, showcasing not only her evolution as a performer but also the depth of […]


ESSENCE Festival Reveals Cultural Curators Mara Brock Akil, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and Nina Compton with Chief Curator Teyana Taylor

The ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola is expanding its creative team for 2026 by bringing in Cultural Curators to shape different parts of the festival experience. They join Chief Curator Teyana Taylor, who oversees the overall vision and direction of the event. Three curators will each lead a key […]

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That Rihanna Reign Continues: Rihanna Becomes First Woman to Surpass 200 Million RIAA Singles Certifications

In 2009, she sang, “That Rihanna reign just won’t let up,” and the line continues to hold true today. As of April 15, Rihanna has become the first woman to surpass 200 million RIAA singles certifications, despite not releasing a full studio album in 10 years. She currently holds third place […]


Prosecutors: Woman Faces Attempted Murder and Other Charges After Shooting at Rihanna’s Home

According to prosecutors, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, their three children and others were inside their Los Angeles home when a woman reportedly fired at the home on Sunday. Ivanna Lisette Ortiz, 35, faces multiple felony counts, including attempted murder, following the incident. No one was injured. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan […]


ESSENCE Festival 2026 Reveals First Performers Including Cardi B, Brandy & Monica, Kehlani and More

Women who have persevered, broken records, and built lasting legacies will take center stage as the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® has announced the first wave of performers for 2026. Cardi B, Patti LaBelle, Kehlani, Latto, and Brandy & Monica are officially on the bill. This year will mark […]


Love, Legacy and Legendary Voices: A Valentine’s Day with New Edition, Boyz II Men & Toni Braxton

For 2.5 hours, New Edition, Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton delivered, engaged, sang, danced and gave their all from start to finish on The New Edition Way Tour, brought to life by the Black Promoters Collective (BPC). Watching them on Valentine’s Day allowed the music to take on even deeper […]