Vassier

Atlanta is getting a new gathering spot in the heart of Midtown. Midtown Green, at 98 14th Street, is opening this fall with free programming designed to bring neighbors, workers and visitors together. The temporary space will feature food trucks, local vendors, live music, lawn games and outdoor fitness classes while the larger vision for […]

MC Lyte is getting her flowers for work that goes far beyond the microphone. The hip-hop pioneer has received SoundExchange’s Music Fairness Award for decades of advocacy on behalf of recording artists. Lyte has been pushing Congress to pass the American Music Fairness Act, which would establish performance royalties for artists when their recordings are […]

Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s birthday is becoming a moment to celebrate the life and legacy of an actor who meant so much to generations of fans. Following his passing in July 2025, his wife and daughter honored him with a heartfelt tribute that reflected the things he cherished most—family, love and connection. From his unforgettable role as […]

A major investment in the future of HBCUs is putting $12 million behind 12 historically Black colleges and universities. The James and Judith K. Dimon Foundation is partnering with UNCF to provide each selected institution with $1 million in permanent endowment funding. The investment is designed to strengthen the schools financially while expanding pathways into […]

Stephen A. Smith is on the receiving end of a very different kind of sports award. The National Association of Black Journalists has given the ESPN personality its 2026 “Thumbs Down” Award, citing what the organization describes as a recurring pattern of disparaging commentary toward prominent Black women across sports, politics and media. The award […]

A legendary soul legacy is getting a new chapter. BG, Zeimani and Kucha Womack—granddaughters of Sam Cooke and daughters of Womack & Womack—have released their self-titled debut album. The sisters grew up surrounded by music, performing with family and learning the art of harmony firsthand. Now, they’re stepping into their own spotlight with a sound […]

What makes an R&B song timeless? ESSENCE takes on that question with its list of the 50 Greatest R&B Songs of All Time, celebrating the voices, melodies and moments that helped define the genre. From soul classics that shaped generations to songs that became cultural touchstones, the list is a reminder of just how powerful […]

Hank Aaron’s legacy is taking root on the Southside. The Atlanta Braves and Billye Aaron helped dedicate new baseball diamonds at Therrell High School through the Hank Aaron Diamonds initiative. The project is part of a broader effort to upgrade baseball and softball facilities across Atlanta Public Schools, giving students better places to play while […]

Whitney Houston fans have a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history. Several outfits worn by the legendary singer—including her 1988 American Music Awards stage dress, a Versace set from VH1 Divas, and a Burberry coat from her Nothing But Love World Tour—are heading to auction. Personal items, including a Richard Avedon portrait […]

Nearly 30 years after Varnell Hill first made audiences laugh on Martin, Tommy Davidson is bringing the unforgettable character back. The Varnell Hill Show premieres September 1 on Paramount+, with Davidson starring as the larger-than-life talk show host trying to stay relevant in an ever-changing television world. And yes—Martin Lawrence is back, too, making a […]

One of Atlanta’s most celebrated cultural events is pressing pause. After 16 years of showcasing the biggest names in hip-hop, R&B, soul, and Black culture, ONE Musicfest has announced it will take a hiatus in 2026. Organizers say the break isn’t the end—it’s an opportunity to reimagine the festival and return in 2027 with an […]

Wakanda’s future is taking shape, and it has the full support of its current queen. Letitia Wright has shared her reaction to David Jonsson joining Black Panther 3 as the adult T’Challa II, describing the casting as “really beautiful.” Wright revealed that she already knows Jonsson personally and has complete confidence in him as both […]