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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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Sunday night on Classix at Nite with Donna, we’re celebrating Father’s Day and the first day of summer. Tonight’s soundtrack is dedicated to dads, granddads, bonus dads, uncles, mentors, and father figures who have made a difference in our lives. We’ll also ease into the new season with soulful songs perfect for a summer evening. […]
Tonight on Classix at Nite with Donna, it’s And My Background Sings! Some of the best moments in music come from the singers in the background. The harmonies, ad-libs, choir parts, and unforgettable vocal runs often become the moments we wait for every time a song comes on. From classic soul and R&B to gospel-inspired […]
Maze feat. Frankie Beverly – “Happy Feelin’s” This timeless favorite has been lifting spirits and filling dance floors for decades. From the opening notes to the final chorus, it’s the kind of song that reminds us to enjoy the moment and appreciate the good things in life. Turn it up, sing along, and catch tonight’s […]