Wednesday, December 7, 2016

LeToya Luckett Releases Artwork for Highly Anticipated Single 'Back2Life'


Billboard.com:
The end of 2016 is near, but there’s still tons of new music to look forward to before it comes to a close. LeToya Luckett will return from a musical hiatus with her long-awaited new single “Back2Life” hitting iTunes this week.

The single’s exclusive artwork features Luckett sporting cropped blond hair, a black leather choker, and fierce cat-eye liner. “Back2Life” signifies the latest single from Luckett since her 2015 single “Don’t Make Me Wait” featuring T.I.

Recently, the Destiny's Child alum has been showing off her acting chops, portraying Tawnya on the Fox police drama Rosewood.

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Kelly Rowland Set to Publish Guide for New Moms


WJBDRadio.com:
The world is still waiting for a new album from Kelly Rowland, but the former Destiny's Child singer is making good on her promise to write a book.

Whoa, Baby!, a guide for new mothers who are feeling overwhelmed by motherhood, is due out March 28, publisher Da Capo Press announced Friday.

The book, written with Kelly's OB-GYN, Dr. Tristan Emily Bickman, promises to cover everything from the physical and hormonal things that new mothers go through to overwhelming new thoughts and emotions.

"No one told me what to expect physically, emotionally or mentally," Kelly says in a statement. "The purpose of Whoa, Baby! is to comfort the mother and give her the knowledge of what's going on with her. We cover everything."

The book is available for pre-order now.
RELATED:  Nelly Tries To Explain Why Kelly Rowland Texted Him Via Spreadsheet For "Dilemma" Video

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

LaTavia Roberson Covers TUV Magazine


Singersroom.com:
LaTavia Roberson, a former and original member of international supergroup Destiny’s Child, gets personal with LGBTQ outlet The Unleashed Voice (TUC) Magazine in the November/December issue. In her sit down, the R&B Divas actress opens up about her losses, perseverance, molestation, alcohol, drugs, finding strength in God, in addition to sharing her most intimate thoughts about stigma and shame.

Sharing her views about the LGBTQ Community, LaTavia tells TUV: “I have been around a lot of my LGBT friends when they’ve gone through things, afraid to tell their parents, or one parent might know, but the other parent doesn’t and, will they accept me?”

LaTavia also spoke about her absent from the limelight, offering readers to get more juice in her upcoming book. Currently working to release her new hand-written memoir, a new film project, and television cameos, LaTavia is determined to remove any stigmas of the past and unleash her voice.

Monday, October 31, 2016

A Conversation With LeToya Luckett On ‘Rosewood’ Role, Dionne W arwick Biopic & Hillary Clinton


AllHipHop.com:
LeToya Luckett is quickly becoming an undeniable entertainment double threat. The Houston-born performer already has a Grammy award for her work with Destiny’s Child and a certified platinum album as a solo artist.
 
While LeToya has established a successful brand as a singer-songwriter, fans have also come to recognize the 35-year-old for her parts in television series such as Treme, Single Ladies, Ballers, and Here We Go Again

LeToya recently returned to TV thanks to the Fox program Rosewood. Her turn as “Tawnya” on the Morris Chestnut-led medical drama will be followed by another cameo on BET’s Real Husbands Of Hollywood.

Even with those notable appearances on the small screen, the biggest moment in Luckett’s career could take place when a biopic about Dionne Warwick hits theaters. LeToya was tapped to star as the renowned hitmaker, and the anticipated biographical portrayal will give her the opportunity to display both her acting and singing skills.

I caught up with LeToya Luckett to discuss her latest television and movie gigs. We chatted about future musical endeavors and Hillary Clinton’s presidential candidacy as well.

Can you talk about your role on Rosewood?
I’m playing a character by the name of Tawnya who’s Rosie’s new love interest. I’m a single mother with an absolutely awesome daughter. I’m learning how to balance a job, personality, life, being a mom – all these different things. In the midst of that, I run into Rosie, and I become very impressed with him.

What was it like starring opposite Morris Chestnut?
He’s so fun to work with. He’s very professional and very respectful. You know, sometimes you get nervous with this love interest thing like, “I don’t really know you and we have to fake like we’re in love.” But he is so great to work with.

Is this your first time doing a medical/police procedural drama?
Yes, it is. I always wanted to. But I’ve always been scared of those scripts, because I’m like, “Oh my God. They have all these crazy medical terms.” But they’re always interesting.

What was it like preparing for that? Because I know sometimes on shows like that you get hit with medical jargon.
It’s challenging, but it’s good. It’s kind of cool because stuff you always wanted to know about, you kind of find that out. 

Your career started as a singer and you’ve embraced acting. Do you have any keys on how to successfully make that transition?
Once I decided this is something that I wanted to do, I started going in with my acting coach and given it the time I needed to help me grow and flourish in it. I started going out for auditions. I didn’t take it lightly. I’m very, very serious about my craft.

Sunday, October 30, 2016

Destiny's Child Instagram Account Sparks Reunion Speculation


ETOnline.com:
Destiny's Child is back -- kind of! 

The girl band launched an official account on Instagram, sending fans into a tailspin, and hoping for a reunion. 

The verified account, which is managed by Legacy Recordings, was actually created last week -- posting its first photo on Oct. 21 -- but picked up steam after the Destiny's Child Twitter account pointed to the new Instagram on Thursday.  

Destiny's Child first formed in 1997 with Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, LaTavia Roberson and LeToya Luckett -- who previously performed together under the name Girl's Tyme. The group went on to release several No. 1 singles, including "Bills, Bills, Bills" and "Say My Name," before Luckett and Roberson left the group and were replaced by Michelle Williams and Farrah Franklin. Franklin made her exit in 2000, leaving the group as they're best known: the trio of Beyoncé, Rowland and Williams. 

The trio continued to release hit after hit -- including "Bootylicious" and "Survivor" -- over the course of the next few years, before disbanding in 2006. 

With the newly released Instagram, fans have understandably lost their minds, with many speculating that the group may be reuniting for its upcoming 20th anniversary.

Thursday, October 27, 2016

Kelly Rowland Says There's No Plans For A Destiny's Child Reunion Anytime Soon


Mirror.co.uk:
When girl groups disband, it's claimed that they hate each other, and if they get back together, it's rumoured to be only for the cold cash, but it would appear that none of these things apply to Destiny's Child.

Kelly Rowland remains close to both Michelle Williams and Beyonce, but despite reuniting to appear on Michelle's gospel track and for Beyonce's Super Bowl in 2013, another get together is not on the cards at the moment.

Kelly and Michelle attended the ELLE Women in Hollywood Awards on Monday night, and looked closer than ever.

Kelly told E! News that the pair had actually just been hanging out when Michelle was her impromptu date for the event, and they even got ready together.

But there was one person missing from the mini-reunion last night – Beyonce.

Kelly said: “We just had dinner last night!”

The star admitted that when the girls get together, people's expressions reveal how shocked they are.
“They often look at us sideways, like, 'Are we really seeing this?' It's really cute,” she said.

But even though the ladies remain tight, the reunion isn't happening at the moment as they concentrate on their careers and new element of their relationship.

“We haven't even talked anything about that,” Kelly said.

“We've just been enjoying each other's company and love and enjoying being women.”

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

'Family Guy' Parodies Jay Z-Solange Elevator Fight



RELATED: 'Family Guy' Couldn't Pick a Worse Time for Its Terrible Parody of Jay Z-Solange Elevator Fight

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Solange Knowles Earns First No. 1 Album with 'A Seat At The Table'


TheFader.com:
On September 30, Solange released her powerful, yet vulnerable third studio album A Seat at the Table. On the same day, Bon Iver also released their highly-anticipated third studio album 22, A Million, which was originally predicted to take the No. 1 slot. The expansive 22, A Million release would have been the Wisconsin band's first album to debut at No. 1.

Today, Billboard reports that Solange has earned her first No. 1 album with A Seat at the Table, which sold 72,000 equivalent album units in its first week. Solange's project narrowly beats Bon Iver's 22, A Million, which debuts at No. 2 with 71,000 units. 

Solange and Beyoncé are now one of the only sibling pairs to debut a solo project at No. 1 within the same year. Earlier this year, Beyoncé earned her 6th No. 1 album with Lemonade. Previously, Michael and Janet Jackson accomplished the feat in 2001 with Invincible and All For You, respectively.

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Beyonce Knowles Stops Concert to Arrange Onstage Proposal



One of Beyonce's dancers is a single lady no more after getting engaged on stage during a recent concert. Beyonce and her dancers were perform "Single Ladies" during the pop diva's sold-out stop of her "Formation World Tour" in St. Louis on Saturday. Suddenly, Beyonce stopped the performance as the artist's choreographer and the tour's creative director John Silver asked dance captain Ashley Everett to marry him.

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Solange Knowles Writes Powerful Essay on Her Personal Experiences with Racial Discrimination


TIME.com:

"The tone just simply says, 'I do not feel you belong here.'”

Solange Knowles wrote a thought-provoking essay about her experience with harassment at a popular German electronic dance music group Kraftwerk’s concert in New Orleans over the weekend.
Knowles had taken to Twitter to share an incident in which her family reported that a group of women threw a half-eaten lime at her, noting that she and her family were among a handful of audience members who were people of color at the concert space. Her story thus shared, Knowles then endured racist harassment on social media. In her essay, And Do You Belong? I Do on her website, Saint Heron, she elaborated on her experience.
“You hear women yell aggressively, ‘Sit down now, you need to sit down right now‘ from the box behind you,” Knowles wrote. “You want to be considerate, however, they were not at all considerate with their tone, their choice of words, or the fact that you just walked in and seem to be enjoying yourself. You are also confused as to what show you went to. This is a band that were pioneers of electronic and dance music. Surely the audience is going to expect you to dance at some point.”
Knowles also voiced her thoughts on misconceptions about her social media statements.
“You know when you share this that a part of the population is going to side with the women who threw trash at you. You know that they will come up with every excuse to remove that huge part of the incident and make this about you standing up at a concert ‘blocking someone’s view’…You realize that you never called these women racists, but people will continuously put those words in your mouth. What you did indeed say is, ‘This is why many black people are uncomfortable being in predominately white spaces,’ and you still stand true to that.”
Knowles goes on to provide additional examples of prejudice from being racially profiled on a train in Italy to hearing a racial epithet in her third grade classroom.

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Latavia Roberson Reveals She Lost Her Unborn Baby Girl Due To Complications


GlobalGrind.com:
Just one month after reports surfaced that LaTavia Roberson was hospitalized and in critical condition after dealing with severe complications related to her second pregnancy — things took a turn for the worse for the R&B diva.

The former Destiny’s Child singer took to Instagram to announce the sad news that she lost her baby while hospitalized. She wrote, “I was, in fact, in the hospital. And during that time, unfortunately, I lost my daughter but MY GOD never makes mistakes. Thank you for your ongoing prayers!”

Our prayers are with LaTavia and her family at this time.

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Beyonce Knowles Performed at MTV VMA Awards


EW.com:
The queen has arrived at the VMAs.

As the white carpet outside New York’s Madison Square Garden opened up on Sunday night before the MTV Video Music Awards, Beyoncé arrived to the delight of social media users and photographers on the carpet.

The Lemonade singer was announced as an official performer at the ceremony earlier on Sunday, ending speculation that she would make a surprise appearance during the show.

Beyoncé was joined on the carpet by daughter Blue Ivy, as well Winnie Harlow and Chloe and Halle, all of whom appeared on the Lemonade visual album. The mothers of Mike Brown, Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, and Oscar Grant – four black men shot and killed by law enforcement officials (or in the case of Martin, a neighborhood watch coordinator) – attended with the singer as well.

Beyoncé will perform at the ceremony alongside Britney Spears, Rihanna, Kanye West, Future, and more. Her album Lemonade grabbed 11 total nominations, the most of her career and tops for the night.

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Beyonce Knowles' Tour Bulldozes Box Office, Grosses $210 Million From 40 Shows


ThatGrapeJuice.com:
Beyonce is a bonafide box-office blockbuster.
The diva supreme set sail on her ‘Formation World Tour’ in April (less than a week after the release of smash hit album ‘Lemonade’).

In the time since, she’s played 40 shows across the US and Europe – wrapping up in Barcelona last week.

With the trek on break for a month before a slew of additional Stateside shows, new box-office scores are in. And let’s just say that the stats are mind-blowing.

Details below…


Per verified data supplied by Pollstar and Billboard Biz, every date of the trek thus far was 100% sold-out.

According to totals, the tour has grossed a whopping $210,063,484 from the concerts played.
Here a few key facts about the ‘Formation World Tour’:
  • It’s now the 8th highest grossing female tour of all time, with only 40 shows.
  • With a sold-out crowd of 75,106, the Stade de France stop in Paris becomes the most attended single show of the singer’s career.
  • Having grossed an average of $7,650,844 per night, Bey’s two Wembley Stadium shows in London become the highest grossing single show(s) of her career.
  • Currently holds the highest average attendance per show of ANY female tour, with 45,994 average attendees.

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Letoya Luckett and Rob Hill Postpone Marraige


Bossip.com:
Even though the duo just announced their engagement back in April, LeToya Luckett and Rob Hill, Sr. have decided that now just isn’t the right time for them to move forward into a marriage.

Thankfully, it doesn’t appear that there’s any ill will between the two and no dirty dog antics that led to the split…but according to Rob, just an issue of timing. As he shared with The Fam Morning Show:
“We have a beautiful relationship. We’re not getting married at this point because we understand each other as friends, the right way. There are certain things she needs to do for herself, and there are certain things I need to do.”
Well, at least this couple knows what’s best for them. Hopefully they can come back together and make it work when and if the time is right…

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

LaTavia Roberson Gives Update After Reports She Was Hospitalized For Pregnancy ...


GlobalGrind.com:
Just weeks ago, it seemed former Destiny’s Child member LaTavia Roberson‘s life was hanging in the balance after reports surfaced that she was in critical condition following complications from her second pregnancy.

The singer and stage actress took to Instagram on Saturday night to update and thank worried fans for their concern and support.

She also clarified that while she was critical condition, she was not actually “fighting for her life” as initial reports were saying.

While she writes that there is “more to this story” the additional details are not yet known. Sadly, she hasn’t provided an update on the fate of her unborn child, leading some on social media to wonder if she’s referring to some kind of tragedy on that front.

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Kelly Rowland Promoted Her Upcoming Make-Up Line For Chocolate Girls At Beautycon


ESSENCE.com:
Kelly Rowland is busier than ever and the singer and former Destiny’s Child member was at Beautycon Festival in LA over the weekend promoting her upcoming makeup line for chocolate girls. She looked summer fresh with a romantic lacy top and skirt and paired it with nude heel sandals. She looked perfect as was with her business partner, makeup artist Sheika Daley and had this to say about the new line, ““We’re coming out with a makeup line called Face. It started off with lashes, but it’s starting to grow bigger than that. We can’t wait to supply women out there with our line — with a Face.”

Kelly is one of the newest celebs branching out of her known talents that brought her fame to other areas due to high success. She’s a makeup diva and always shines on the red carpet with her hair, clothing and of course makeup.  Women, especially black women look up to Kelly and her lovely looks as traditionally, black girls are often overlooked in the area of beauty especially with makeup. Finding the right foundations, hues, and range of colors has been a long-standing problem. The buzz surrounding her upcoming line has been good and she was all smiles and full of confidence at Beautycon festival.

Saturday, July 16, 2016

Solange Knowles Shares Why She Joined a Black Bank


TheRoot.com:
Solange Knowles isn’t just talking about it, she’s being about it when it comes to supporting black businesses. The singer recently shared her reasons why she decided to join a black-owned bank.

“While I realize this is a very personal decision and thing to share, I’m proud to say I made that step today,” Solange said on Instagram. “Time to literally put my money where my mouth is.”

Solange posted a link from a 2013 HBCU Money article that listed a number of black-owned banks in the U.S. Although she advised that she couldn’t vouch for the banks listed, it’s pretty safe to say that with $4.7 billion in assets, these banks aren’t mom-and-pop institutions.

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

LaTavia Roberson Reportedly 'Fighting for Her Life' After Pregnancy Complications


BET.com:
Former Destiny's Child member LaTavia Roberson was reportedly in bad shape after complications with her current pregnancy

A source told TheShadeRoom that the singer was rushed to the hospital and as of now there is no word on what her current health status. This is her second time with child. Her daughter, Lyric Richard was born in 2013. 

The 34-year-old singer was one of the original members of Destiny's Child, later leaving to form to girl group Anjel. After a brief career hiatus Roberson took to the stage to hit the stage for plays including Those Jeans, How to Love, and Not My Family.

Her work has earned her several awards, including two Grammys and three Soul Train Awards. Fans haven taken to Twitter to wish the ailing singer well:

This is a developing story, hopefully we will be able to report that Roberson and her unborn child are on the mend very soon.

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Beyoncé - Sorry (Video)



Beyonce Knowles has released a standalone music video for the infamous “Becky with the good hair” Lemonade song 'Sorry', which features a twerking Serena Williams.

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Beyonce Knowles’ Protégés Chloe x Halle Talk Being On The Set Of ‘Lemonade’


Singersroom.com:
A couple of months ago, sisterly teen duo Chloe x Halle released their debut single “Drop” and appeared in Beyonce’s visual album Lemonade. Queen Bey discovered the girls on YouTube a few years back, and,  impressed by their covers, she signed them to her label Parkwood Entertainment.

Chloe and Halle Bailey recently sat down with Music Choice to discuss the experience of being on the set while filming Lemonade.

“Being around all these beautiful, beautiful women who are talented and gifted in their own rights and…it was just so powerful being there and we were all there knowing it was gonna be something great for the Queen B.,” Chloe said, “but we didn’t know how great it would be, and we were just freaking out like everybody else when we saw ‘Lemonade’.”

Halle added, “We actually had like a watch party kind of with our friends. We made lemonade…we went around the TV and were watching and then…like we were just watching as fans and then we completely forgot that we were in it so when we saw ourselves we were like, ‘Oh my gosh! *laughing*…like Oh I was there’ So it’s just so cool to say that we were a part of something so great…”

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Mathew Knowles Presents New Female Trio BLUSHHH & Their New Single, ‘Old School Back’



Singersroom.com:
Last month, Mathew Knowles challenged Kelly Rowland to a “group-off” between her newly-formed “Chasing Destiny” quintet and his new trio Blushhh.

Now we can hear what he and his new group (comprised as members Sunni, Tali, and Bunni Ray) have been working on with their new single “Old School Back.”

Laced with Lil Kim’s “Crush On You” instrumental, the song features the girls rapping and singing that music fans back to the ’90s. The full length video is coming soon.

Which group do you think would win in a “group-off” between Kelly Rowland’s group and Blushhh?

Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles Sued Over Lemonade Trailer


TIME.com:
Beyoncé is facing a lawsuit after an independent filmmaker says the pop star copied his short film in the trailer for her recent visual album Lemonade.

Matthew Fulks, the plaintiff, says that nine visual elements in 39 seconds of the 60-second trailer were lifted from his film Palinoia, according to the Hollywood Reporter, including Lemonade‘s parking garage scene.

“The number of aesthetic decisions included in Plaintiff’s PALINOIA Work that are parroted in Defendants’ LEMONADE Trailer demonstrates that the LEMONADE Trailer is substantially similar to the PALINOIA Work,” reads the complaint, which was filed in New York. “The misappropriated content includes both the particular elements that the Plaintiff chose to comprise the PALINOIA Work and the coordination and arrangement of those particular elements.”

Fulks, a filmmaker and creative director at a Louisville, Kentucky news station, has a theory for how his work may have come across Beyoncé’s creative team. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Fulks says he was contacted by another artist on Beyoncé’s label Columbia Records, and that links to Palinoia were sent to Bryan Younce, who has directed videos for the singer in the past.

Monday, June 6, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles’ Cool Floral Suit Won’t Break the Bank


Vogue.com:
We have Alessandro Michele at Gucci to thank for giving the ’70s floral suit a whole new look with all manner of lush and exotic motifs. The trend has had a ripple effect on and off the runways; Beyoncé is the latest celebrity to touch her wardrobe with a green thumb and was seen earlier this week wearing a verdant printed blazer and pants by The Kooples—a suit that, thankfully, comes without the superstar designer price tag.

Just before Memorial Day weekend, Mrs. Carter stepped out with husband Jay Z in a maxi dress with a blossoming pattern, and her latest ensemble took the boho silhouette into a sleek and tailored direction. Casual cropped trousers allowed the 34-year-old mother of one to show off her shoe game—in this case platform peep-toes. As for the flashy metallic-trim sunglasses? Well, those were pure Sasha Fierce.

Saturday, June 4, 2016

LaTavia Roberson Expecting Baby #2


ESSENCE.com:
Former Destiny's Child vocalist and R&B Divas: Atlanta reality star LaTavia Roberson is about to have another little person calling her "mommy."

The Houston beauty recently hosted a private screening of her new web series titled "The Online Diary Of LaTavia Roberson" at the Studioplex in Atlanta, where she confirmed the exciting news. LaTavia had her 2-year-old daughter Lyric by her side on the red carpet as she posed for a few photos to show off her growing baby bump and she shared a few pics from the screening on her Instagram page to share the good news with her fans.

Partnering with Vimeo for the new web series, LaTavia recently revealed that she is also the executive producer of "The Online Diary Of LaTavia Roberson," which premiered June 1st on YouTube. LaTavia and producer Don Vito welcomed their daughter Lyric into the world back in August of 2013.

Friday, June 3, 2016

LeToya Luckett Films ‘Addicted to You’


RollingOut.com:
This Memorial Day weekend all kinds of celebrity film and television faces were popping up in the ATL. Pleasantly surprised, I received an invite headlining the names Thomas Q Jones, LeToya Luckett, Brely Evans and Jasmine Burke. However, instead of it being an invite to one of the weekend parties, it was an invite to cover media for a new straight to DVD stage play titled Addicted to You, written and directed by Patricia Cuffie Jones; executive producer: TYMEDIA PRODUCTIONS.

The stage play took place at the theater on Spelman College’s campus in front of a live studio audience as it was also being filmed for DVD. It was interesting to see the set design transition through the many time periods represented in the play. Scenes moved through the 60s and 70s, featuring the yellow crushed velvet sofa with, the velvet pictures in the wooden frames, the beaded drapes, the floor model television with the smaller 24-inch screen on the top.

The narrative of the story was derived from a journal a single, pregnant mom wrote while torn with the pain of giving up her unborn child for adoption. The estranged mother wrote the journal for the daughter in 1969, fast forwarding the story line to 2016 when the daughter completed the journal (after she received it in her possession as an adult). She learned all the reasons her mom gave her away and all the thoughts and hopes and dreams her mom had for her in this diary. Meanwhile, she became “addicted to love” and didn’t even know it.

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Farrah Franklin is Arrested for Public Intoxication


TMZ.com:
Farrah Franklin a former Destiny's Child singer, got busted for public intoxication -- note the red nose in her mug shot -- and allegedly told police she should've downed even more alcohol.

According to cops ... Farrah got into an argument with a male friend around 3 AM Thursday outside a gym in DeKalb County, GA. When officers showed up she said she was not ready to go home, and added ... "These n***** won't leave me alone."

Cops noticed signs of drunkenness -- odor of booze, slurred speech and bloodshot eyes -- and asked how much she'd been drinking. She fired back, "Not enough."

Farrah -- who was in DC from 1999 to 2000 -- was arrested and booked for public intoxication and possession of a small amount of weed.

Bail is set at $250. She's still in custody.

Friday, May 13, 2016

LeToya Luckett to Play Dionne Warwick in Biopic


USmagazine.com:
Destiny fulfilled! Destiny’s Child alum LeToya Luckett is set to play Dionne Warwick in an upcoming biopic about the R&B legend, the singer announced at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, May 13, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

"She is perfect and she has exactly the right look," Warwick, 75, raved of Luckett’s impending performance as the powerhouse vocalist. "She will bring out what is needed for this part."

THR reports that the movie, suitably titled Dionne, will cover the beginning of Warwick’s storied career from 1962 to 1968. It was during this period that the five-time Grammy winner crafted some of her most memorable tracks, including “I Say a Little Prayer.”

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles Earns Sixth No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 Chart With ‘Lemonade’


NYTimes.com:
American royalty has a lock on the Billboard album chart this week as Queen Bey and Prince continue to dominate the conversation.

In the biggest week for an album so far this year, Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” (Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia) debuts at No. 1 with 485,000 album sales and 115 million streams following its premiere on HBO on April 23. Beyoncé’s first six studio albums have debuted at No. 1, a feat never before accomplished, Billboard reports.

“Lemonade,” which was accompanied by a conceptual short film, was available for its first weekend exclusively via Tidal, the music service owned by Jay Z and other artists (including Beyoncé), before spreading to other retailers for digital download. Tidal has said it would be the only place to stream the album “in perpetuity,” while a physical version will be released on Friday, May 6. Individual songs from “Lemonade” were also purchased 908,000 times for a final tally of 653,000 album equivalent units, including downloads and streams, according to Nielsen Music.

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

LeToya Luckett's Displays Fierce New Cut for the Summer


ESSENCE.com:
LeToya Luckett is getting summertime fly a few months early.

The R&B diva, who wrapped the first season of her latest television venture "Here We Go Again" last month, has been keeping busy as the summer season nears. Never one to stray too far away from her musical roots, LeToya hinted at a new album in the works back in 2014 before going on to release 2 new singles shortly after. In 2015, she lent her vocal skills to a socially-conscious track titled "Together," which addressed the police brutality and gun violence epidemic in the U.S. Later in 2015, the former Destiny's Child member put her own spin on Big Sean's hit single "Blessings" with a remix titled "Blessed."

Although she certainly has her hands full with her career, LeToya is never too busy to smile for the camera and show off her latest look. She's known for switching things up in the style department and being able to pull off nearly any look and her most recent hairstyle switch up is living proof.

LeToya took to her personal Instagram page earlier this week to show off her new, super-short haircut and as you might imagine, it's fierce.

She later thanked talented celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims for her new look, which is sure to be perfect for the warmer weather that's just around the corner.  As for LeToya, she slays, all day....and we love it.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Kelly Rowland and Claritin Team Up to Revitalize the Boys and Girls Clubs in Communities in Need


FOX40.com:
Grammy-Award Winning Artist Kelly Rowland and Clinical Allergist and Claritin C.L.E.A.R. Council Member Dr. Johnathan Field have joined Bethany and Christianne to discuss how they are fighting allergies with Claritin and Boys and Girls Club of America so people can make the most of spring. Sacramento is one of the top spring allergy cities in the United States and those suffering with allergies may feel like they need to stay inside all day instead of enjoying the outdoors but they explain why you no longer need to stay behind closed doors this season.

As a long-time BGCA National Ambassador, Kelly knows that for many BGCA members, time spent at a Club is one of their best opportunities to get outside and get active. The revitalized spaces they are working to build will create enhanced experiences where youth can be active outdoors and truly enjoy the benefits of time spent outside.

Beyoncé Knolwes - Lemonade (Best Moments)

Friday, April 8, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles Says She Doesn’t Hate Police, Just Police Brutality…


ELLE.com:

What do you feel people don't understand about who you really are, and in particular about the message you've put forward with "Formation"?

I mean, I'm an artist and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood. But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and the families of officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe. But let's be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice. Those are two separate things. If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me. I'm proud of what we created and I'm proud to be a part of a conversation that is pushing things forward in a positive way.

What do you want to accomplish with the next phase of your career?

I hope I can create art that helps people heal. Art that makes people feel proud of their struggle. Everyone experiences pain, but sometimes you need to be uncomfortable to transform. Pain is not pretty, but I wasn't able to hold my daughter in my arms until I experienced the pain of childbirth!

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Beyonce Knowles Sues Over 'Feyonce' Knockoffs


Reuters.com:

In her 2008 smash hit "Single Ladies," Beyonce sang of telling a jealous ex-boyfriend that if he had wanted to commit to their relationship, he should have "put a ring on it."

Now Beyonce is telling a Texas company selling stuff online bearing the name "Feyonce" to put a lid on it.

Beyonce, one of the world's most famous and influential pop stars, on Tuesday sued to stop the sale of dozens of shirts, sweaters, tank tops, hoodies and even coffee mugs bearing the "Feyonce" name, which she calls too close to her own trademarked name.

In a complaint filed in Manhattan federal court, Beyonce accused Feyonce Inc and three individuals, all from San Antonio, of "brazenly" selling infringing "Feyonce" merchandise at their website.

Among the items is a $14.95 mug with the phrase "he put a ring on it," which Beyonce said was intended to call to mind the lyrics of "Single Ladies."

Monday, March 28, 2016

Kelly Rowland Developing Makeup Line for ‘Chocolate Women’


TheBoombox.com:
Kelly Rowland is preparing to enter the competitive industry of cosmetics with her own makeup line for chocolate-hued women.

“My makeup artist Sheika Daley and I are actually starting a makeup line — we’re making sure we make, well, we’re starting off with lashes, and then we’re going to have it grow for all women,” she told Essence. “But definitely making sure we have our chocolate girls covered. Gotta get the chocolate girls in there! We have to have that, you know. I think Iman has done a beautiful makeup line, and I want to do it, too!”

The idea to launch her own cosmetic line came after years of having to endure horrible makeup jobs from professional cosmetologists who didn’t know how to apply makeup to a dark-skinned face.

“I remember going to Europe, and there was this one makeup artist – I’m a chocolate girl, and she made me look pink,” recalls Rowland (via People). “And then when she tried again, I looked green. And then when she tried again, I looked way fairer than what I really am.”

Sunday, March 27, 2016

The Internet is Going Crazy Over Beyoncé Knowles' "Cousin," Kristin Douglas, Who Isn't Really Her Cousin


InTouchWeekly.com:
Looks like Beyoncé really can do just about anything — like make you famous overnight.
The "Formation" singer, 34, recently returned home to her native Texas to attend the funeral of her Uncle Skip, and you know, just casually made dreams come true for one lucky, genetically blessed woman. Otherwise known as "Beyoncé's hot cousin." 

After this photo was posted to Instagram, on March 19, the Internet went wild. Jay Z's better half posed for a pic with sisters Kelsi Leggett (left) and Kristin Douglas (right), who were first thought to be Bey's cousins. Shortly after, Douglas and her booty caught the attention of, well, thousands. 

She later clarified to TMZ that she is not in fact the cousin of the famous singer, but she and sister Kelsi are the goddaughters of Uncle Skip. 

Upon posting the pic, Douglas, a self-described nurse with two children, went from an undiscovered identity to an online sensation. Her Instagram following skyrocketed from a mere 2k to now 87k and counting. Twitter and Instagram goers were quick to point out Douglas' gorgeous looks and "bootylicious" figure.

Monday, March 21, 2016

Beyonce Knowles Held ‘Alice in Wonderland’ Tea Party for Daughter Blue Ivy Before She Hits the Road





Yahoo.com:

Beyoncé has shared some seriously adorable photos from an Easter-themed tea party with daughter Blue Ivy and sister Solange.

Bey shared the photos of the three celebrating the Spring season and all things Easter on her website, with a smiling Blue Ivy looking too darn cute in her pink dress.

Solange, meanwhile, looked gorgeous in a blue ensemble, while Beyoncé keep it casual in jeans and a coat.

The ‘Single Ladies’ singer obviously had a bit of fun with editing before posting the photos, giving Blue some pink and white bunny ears and putting some teeny tiny rabbits in Solange’s hands.

In a few photos, she’s given her sweet daughter a gorgeous flower headband, while in others, she’s played around with different backgrounds.

Sunday, March 6, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles' Cover of Whitney Houston's Classic 'I Will Always Love You' Will Give You Chills


People.com:

We will always love Beyoncé's cover of "I Will Always Love You."

The pop star again performed her version of Whitney Houston's iconic ballad – following similar covers, for example, in 2012 and, for Paul Walker, in 2013 – while appearing Saturday at the Center for Early Education's 75th Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles.

(Houston's version, made famous by The Bodyguard in 1992, is of course itself a cover, of Dolly Parton's 1974 original.)

Then as now, Beyoncé blew through the smash hit's sweeping notes, as audience members soaked up snippets of her voice with their phones.

Sunday, February 28, 2016

Beyonce Knowles & Jay Z Attend Kids' Birthday Party With Kelly Rowland


JustJared.com:
Beyonce and Jay Z head out after a kids’ birthday party on Saturday (February 27) in Century City, Calif.

The 34-year-old “Formation” singer and her 46-year-old husband took their daughter Blue Ivy Carter (not pictured) to celebrate a friend’s birthday that afternoon.

Also seen chatting after the party were singer Kelly Rowland, her husband Tim Witherspoon and their good friend actress Ellen Pompeo.

Beyonce and Jay were carrying a huge bouquet of bright balloons as they left the event.


Friday, February 26, 2016

Garage Magazine Puts Beyonce Knowles On 1st Cover Featuring a Non-Model


People.com:
50 shades of Bey!

Beyoncé debuted a new look, and a couple of options, for her photo shoot with Garage Magazine

On the cover, Queen Bey is surrounded in hues of blue as she looks over her shoulder, staring seductively into the lens, wearing her blonde locks in cornrows, and a fresh face, featuring minimal makeup. The “Formation” singer also flaunts some new piercings — although it’s not clear if they’re real — as a line of hoops go up her ear.

In other variations of the cover shot, the mother of one, 34, is seen with a frame of orange, red, and yellow, circling her face.

The cover art is collaboration between the superstar singer, and world-renowned artist Urs Fischer, and offers a sneak peek into what the magazine describes as an “interactive feature [that] will include exclusive words and images from Beyoncé herself.”

The March issue is currently available for pre-sale, but won’t hit news stands until March 14.

Monday, February 22, 2016

Destiny's Child Reunites for Kelly Rowland's Birthday


People.com:
Kelly Rowland's 35th birthday party was "Jumpin', Jumpin'"!

That's because the celebration doubled as a Destiny's Child reunion with Rowland's bandmates Beyoncé and Michelle Williams.

Sure, the ladies have been busy pursuing their solo careers, but judging by their adorable photo booth snaps, you'd never guess their bond has changed since they got "Bootylicious" in 2001.

Rowland shared a handful of images via Instagram on Sunday, showing the musicians striking poses together and Rowland getting cute with Williams.

Sunday, February 21, 2016

The NYPD Is Willing to Protect Beyoncé Knowles Under One Condition


BET.com:
In your Saturday edition of "get a life," the New York Police Department is apparently bothered by Beyoncé's Super Bowl 50 Halftime show performance, so much so that they're offering the pop star safety in exchange for an apology.

You read that right. According to TMZ, the NYPD wants the "Formation" singer to publicly explain that her pro-Black halftime performance was not an attack on cops.

"Our NYPD sources admit they don't believe Beyoncé was advocating hostility toward police in her homage to the Black Panthers," a statement on the department's site reads. "Problem is... they say that's the way it came across for millions of viewers."

Cops are reportedly not happy and don't want Queen Bey to "promote violence," but are willing to protect her once she explains why she chose that particular treatment for her performance.

According to Pix11, Ed Mullins, the President of New York's Sergeants Benevolent Association wants Bey to stop painting the police as villains: "Law enforcement across the country has to make a statement that we're not bad guys and she's got to stop portraying us as bad guys."

Saturday, February 20, 2016

Beyoncé Knowles Is NOT “Re-Hiring” Father Mathew Knowles As Manager, Despite Report


GossipCop.com:
Beyoncé is NOT “re-hiring” her father Mathew Knowles as her manager, despite a report. Gossip Cop can exclusively correct the claim. We’re told there’s absolutely no validity to the story.

The allegation comes from the National Enquirer, which claims, “Mega-mogul Jay Z’s sensing a mega-chill in his marriage after Beyoncé suddenly shocked him — and the entire family — by hinting that she’s re-hiring estranged dad Mathew Knowles to manage her empire again.”

“Maybe THAT’S why Jay sent Wifey that whopping bouquet of 10,000 roses just before the Super Bowl,” the supermarket tabloid wrongly speculates. The outlet goes on to quote a so-called “Beyoncé spy,” who alleges, “Jay Z knew something was up when Beyoncé abruptly fired her entire management team, and he’s infuriated by news that Daddy’s back again — years after he’d persuaded her to dump his ass!”

The National Enquirer even encourages readers to “stay tuned,” and they should… to Gossip Cop. We’re assured by an impeccable insider close to Beyoncé and Jay Z that she is NOT hiring her dad to be her manager again. Our contact even sniped, “Look who the source is.”

No kidding. The disreputable gossip rag outrageously said last fall that Beyoncé and Jay Z’s supposed “sham marriage” was coming to an end, with the superstars on the verge of divorce. Of course, they remain happily together, and there’s 10,000 roses that prove it. Furthermore, Beyoncé has already hired a new management team, of which Knowles is not part.

Monday, February 15, 2016

Kelly Rowland Shuts Down Beyonce Knowles Super Bowl Haters


BET.com:
Beyoncé has been facing a ridiculous level of backlash from white conservatives over her hit track "Formation" and accompanying video, which only serves to prove her point that "you know you that b***h when you cause all this conversation." The media has run itself ragged churning out think pieces about the messages behind the unabashedly pro-Black song and video, and the feathers it's ruffled among the white establishment. 
But Kelly Rowland isn't interested in all that talk — instead, she has a very simple message for the haters, particularly former New York mayor Rudy Guiliani, who said that Bey's super-woke Super Bowl 50 performance gave people a "platform to attack police officers."

“I think that we live in a country where you have the freedom to say how you feel and talk,” she said at a pre-Grammy party on Friday. “And it’s really from a peaceful place. I think that they’re blowing it out of proportion.” She then added, “Giuliani should just shut up.”

Tell 'em, Kelly!


Beyoncé has kept quiet on the criticism thus far, letting her art do the talking, but it is great to see that those who know her best are coming out in support of her message.

Sunday, February 14, 2016

"The Day Beyoncé Turned Black" - SNL



Great job by SNL, because this skit is not only hilarious, but perfectly speaks to all the nonsense being raised over people upest with that "Formation" video and Super Bowl appearance.

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Protesters Are Planning an Anti-Beyoncé Knowles Rally Outside NFL Headquarters on Feb. 16 Because of her Super Bowl Performance


NYDailyNews.com:
Beyoncé haters are ready to get in formation.

The anti-Beyhive is planning to protest the "Drunk in Love" singer outside of the NFL Headquarters in Manhattan on Feb. 16, the same day tickets for her “Formation” world tour goes on sale.

The “Run the World” artist faced criticism from politicians including former Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Rep. Peter King (R-Long Island) for being “anti-police" following her halftime performance at Sunday's Super Bowl.

“Are you offended as an American that Beyonce pulled her race-baiting stunt at the Superbowl?” the event description said. “Do you agree that it was a slap in the face to law enforcement?”

The rally’s organizer is calling Beyoncé’s show “hate speech” and “racism” at the Super Bowl because of its references to the Black Panthers and Black Lives Matter.
 Since when does being anti-police brutality mean that you're anti-police/ People really need their heads examined.