When I start my Zoom session with Adam Blackstone, he’s in the studio. He had spent all day there the previous day, working on a new version ofLegacy, his debut album from last year, re-interpolating melodies from singers like Kirk Franklin, Jill Scott, and Jazmine Sullivan. The album has already …
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After four years, Janet Jackson will make her touring return with the Together Again trek. The singer has scheduled shows at arenas and amphitheaters in 33 cities across North America, set to begin in 2023. The Together Again tour will kick off on April 14 in Hollywood, Florida, and will …
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In the early 2000s, software developers were hard at work delivering the most up-to-date programs for the latest laptop models. In hindsight, many of them were clunky and slow, although they got the job done. But while engineers were preoccupied with eliminating glitches or bugs, they failed to predict their …
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After two years of virtual programming, the saints returned to New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome for the Essence Music Festival (now officially the Essence Festival of Culture) with mixed results. Nearly 30 years ago, the Black women’s magazine launched in the early 1970s created a celebration of music that has evolved …
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Janet Jackson made a surprise appearance at Sunday’s Billboard Music Awards to present Mary J. Blige with the Icon Award. A variety of artists — including Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott and H.E.R. — sent their congratulations to the groundbreaking R&B singer in a montage accompanying the segment. “Mary J. Blige …
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A man pounds the wall in fury because he’s alone on Valentine’s Day — again. A woman erupts in frustration because she discovered her date is color blind, which means he’s unable to recognize her “beautiful unique green perfect eyes.” Another guy fears the worst — his girlfriend is away …
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Music has long been intertwined with the spirit of Pride and pro-LGBTQ+ movements, from obvious selections like Diana Ross’ disco banger “I’m Coming Out” to the confrontational queercore of groups like Pansy Division. During Pride month, the music is usually a mix of party and protest, combining the sensual pleasures …
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