Culture

Brandy is reassuring fans that she’s doing well after recent conversations about her noticeably slimmer appearance. The Grammy-winning singer says she’s healthy, feeling great, and focused on creating new music for her next album. While social media has been filled with speculation, Brandy is shifting the conversation back to what matters most—her artistry. With a […]

One of the most touching moments of the ESSENCE Black Women in Music Awards came when Missy Elliott paused her acceptance speech to honor Monica—not for her chart-topping hits, but for her unwavering friendship. Fighting back tears, Missy shared that Monica stood beside her during one of the darkest and most isolating chapters of her […]

There is something special about traveling with intention. Check out 10 Black cultural experiences to add to your summer bucket list inside. 

The Gulf Coast Challenge is bringing the energy long before kickoff. Hip-hop icons Juvenile and Webbie have been announced as the headliners for HBCU Fest on October 2 in Mobile, Alabama, kicking off one of the nation’s premier HBCU football weekends. The concert sets the stage for the annual Gulf Coast Challenge matchup between Alabama […]

A conversation about music has become a larger debate about culture. Grammy-winning singer India.Arie says her criticism of Yung Miami’s hit “Spend Dat” isn’t about canceling an artist—it’s about questioning the messages society embraces. After her comments sparked backlash online, India.Arie clarified that she is not calling for a boycott, but encouraging listeners to think […]

Missy Elliott honored as a 'Visionary Icon', opens up about her journey and encourages others to trust their gifts.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is serving up more than soccer—it’s introducing international visitors to a uniquely American culinary experience. Fans traveling from around the world are discovering regional favorites ranging from barbecue and fried chicken to signature sauces and Southern comfort food. In host cities like Atlanta, restaurants and food vendors are finding that […]

Podcasting is no longer an emerging medium—it’s a global powerhouse. A new industry report reveals that podcasting generated $9.2 billion in revenue worldwide in 2025, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. Much of that growth is being driven by video podcasts, which are attracting larger audiences, stronger advertising dollars, and new monetization opportunities. […]

Atlanta’s biggest Juneteenth celebration is gearing up for another historic weekend. Juneteenth Atlanta returns to Piedmont Park June 19-21, bringing together thousands for a powerful celebration of freedom, culture, community, and Black excellence. From the World Freedom Day Parade and live entertainment to local vendors, youth activities, wellness programming, food, and family-friendly experiences, the three-day […]

Class is officially back in session. Netflix has announced that the highly anticipated sequel to A Different World will premiere on September 24, 2026—exactly 39 years after the original debuted. The new series follows Deborah Wayne, the daughter of beloved Hillman College couple Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert, as a new generation discovers friendship, purpose, […]

The countdown to the biggest celebration of Black culture is on. ESSENCE Festival of Culture 2026 has unveiled its night-by-night concert lineup, bringing together Cardi B, Kehlani, Latto, Patti LaBelle, Brandy & Monica, Babyface, Public Enemy, George Clinton and more for an unforgettable Fourth of July weekend in New Orleans. Read more here!

Barack and Michelle Obama are preparing to unveil the long-awaited Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side. Opening June 19, the massive community-focused campus will feature a museum, library, playground, gardens, sports spaces, and more — giving visitors a new cultural landmark rooted in education, history, and community. Read more here!