Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD Donates $2.5 Million to Support Los Angeles Wildfire Victims
Beyoncé's BeyGOOD donates $2.5 million to support families, churches, and communities impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. We discuss it here!
Beyonce arrives for 'Mufasa: The Lion King' World Premiere on December 09, 2024 in Hollywood, CA.
Photo Cred: DFree
By: Joshua Martin
Houston native and musical icon Beyonce through her non profit BeyGOOD has donated $2.5 million to those impacted by the Los Angeles fires. On Sunday (January 12th), the official Instagram account for the foundation announced their efforts, explaining what the donation will be used for.
“Los Angeles we stand with you. BeyGOOD is taking action by announcing the LA Fire Relief Fund with a donation of 2.5 million dollars. The fund is earmarked to aid families in the Altadena/Pasadena area who lost their homes, and to churches and community centers to address the immediate needs of those affected by the wildfires.”
BeyGOOD was created in 2013, the mission statement for the foundation states that it “serves people and develop impactful partnership programs through organizations assisting marginalized people and communities.”
Throughout its decade long history, BeyGOOD has given back to several causes. Most notably its efforts to aid those affected by the devastating 2015 earthquakes in Haiti. They also donated $82K in 2016 to the city of Flint, Michigan to help combat the Flint Water Crisis.
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Los Angeles wildfires began as a brush fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Tuesday (January 7th). Almost 180,000 people were initially ordered to evacuate their homes after the devastating spread of the Eaton, Hurst, and Lidia fires. As of Sunday (January 12th), 24 people have died from the fires, per The Los Angeles Times.
Numerous celebrities and companies have pledged funds to Los Angeles since the start of the fires. According to reports, Disney pledged $15 million to those affected, while Fox Corp. and Paramount donated $1 million to the American Red Cross.
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Remembering Frankie Beverly: A Soul Legend and His Timeless Legacy
Frankie Beverly, legendary Maze frontman, leaves an enduring legacy in soul and R&B music after his passing. We discuss it here!
Frankie Beverly's Saturday Night Old School Music event took place at the Home Depot Backyard, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, on September 11th, 2021.
Photo Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson
By: Jamila Gomez
The world of music is in mourning following the passing of Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman and founder of the R&B group Maze. A towering figure in the realm of soul and funk music, Beverly's unmistakable voice and profound contributions to music have left an indelible mark on generations of fans and fellow musicians. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to shine brightly through the timeless songs he gifted the world.
Early Life and Formation of Maze
Born Howard Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Frankie Beverly’s love for music began at an early age. Like many great singers, his roots were in gospel music, and he began performing in local church choirs as a child. In his teenage years, Beverly was heavily influenced by doo-wop and the burgeoning R&B sound, which led him to form The Blenders, a vocal group that captured the essence of 1950s and 60s vocal harmony.
However, it wasn’t until 1970 that Beverly would form the group that would make him an icon: Maze. Originally called Raw Soul, the group was eventually discovered by Marvin Gaye, who suggested they change their name to Maze. With this endorsement from one of the greatest soul singers of all time, Maze with Frankie Beverly as its lead singer began their rise to prominence.
Musical Legacy: Songs That Became Anthems
Maze became known for their smooth, soulful sound that blended elements of R&B, funk, and jazz. They quickly became a favorite among fans of soul music, delivering timeless hits like "Joy and Pain," "Before I Let Go," and "Golden Time of Day." These tracks weren’t just songs—they became soundtracks for life’s most joyful moments, whether at family cookouts, weddings, or neighborhood block parties.
"Before I Let Go" in particular has become an anthem in the African-American community, often serving as the unofficial close to parties and gatherings. The song’s infectious groove and celebratory lyrics embody the joy that Maze’s music has brought to so many. In fact, its influence runs so deep that Beyoncé covered the track in 2019, introducing it to a new generation of listeners while paying homage to its creator.
A Voice of Authenticity and Grace
What set Beverly apart from many of his contemporaries was his authentic voice—both literally and figuratively. His rich, soulful tenor conveyed an emotional depth that resonated with listeners. There was a vulnerability in his delivery that made the songs feel deeply personal, whether he was singing about love, heartache, or perseverance.
Unlike many in the music industry, Beverly wasn’t a flashy or boastful personality. He was known for his humility, grace, and dedication to his craft. Fans often commented on his warm, gracious demeanor, both on and off the stage. Despite Maze's massive success, Beverly remained grounded, always putting his music and his fans first.
A Touring Titan
Even as Maze's recorded output slowed in the 1990s, the group continued to be a dominant force in live music. Beverly's live performances became the stuff of legend, with sold-out shows across the U.S. and worldwide. It was during these live performances that the true power of Maze's music came to life. With every note, every lyric, Beverly connected with audiences in a way few performers could. His concerts were known for their uplifting energy, and audiences often left feeling more than entertained—they felt inspired.
Beverly's commitment to live performances also helped build an intergenerational fan base. Younger audiences discovered his music through their parents or grandparents, and they, too, found themselves swept away by the grooves and emotions embedded in Maze's music.
A Lasting Legacy
Frankie Beverly’s passing has left a void in the world of soul and R&B, but his legacy remains alive through the music he created. His songs continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, evoking feelings of joy, love, and resilience. In a career that spanned over five decades, he never lost sight of what mattered most: creating music that connected people and lifted their spirits.
His influence can be heard in contemporary artists across genres, from R&B to hip-hop, where Maze’s grooves have been sampled and reinterpreted. But beyond the notes and rhythms, it’s the soul of Frankie Beverly—the warmth, love, and authenticity he brought to his music—that will continue to inspire artists and listeners alike.
As we remember Frankie Beverly, we celebrate a man who dedicated his life to bringing joy and comfort to others through his music. His songs will forever be a testament to his artistry, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all those he touched. Rest in power, Frankie Beverly—a soul legend whose light will never fade.
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Beyoncé Announces Launch Of New Whisky With Moët Hennessy
Beyoncé launches SirDavis American Whisky in partnership with Moët Hennessy, paying tribute to her great-grandfather and expanding her brand into the spirits industry. We discuss it here!
Beyonce Knowles at the World premiere of 'The Lion King' held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, USA on July 9, 2019.
Credit: Tinseltown
By: Joshua Martin
Beyonce announces the launch of SirDavis American Whisky, named after her paternal grandfather, in partnership with Moet Hennessy. Turning her love of whisky into a full fledged business venture, the “Renaissance” singer’s new liquor line will be available in September.
“I’ve always been drawn to the power and confidence I feel when drinking quality whisky and wanted to invite more people to experience that feeling. When I discovered that my great-grandfather had been a moonshine man, it felt like my love for whisky was fated. SirDavis is a way for me to pay homage to him, uniting us through a new shared legacy. In partnering with Moët Hennessy, we have crafted a delicious American whisky that respects tradition but also empowers people to experience something new and unique in the category. You can taste it better than I could ever tell you — welcome, SirDavis. Beyonce Knowles, in a statement ”
On the whisky brand’s official website, the Houston native shared a photo of her grandfather Davis Hogue and penned a heartfelt open letter to him.
“I feel you in the heat of the landscapes. Your laughter rolling in the rye. What songs did you sing? What gaps did you fill? Great-grandfather, did you dream of me? Your legacy is a force that drives me. Together, let us pour it, toast to this feat, and usher your craft into the future. For you, I raise my glass to legacy. We ride the movement. We savor the moment.”
Prior to its launch, the multi time Grammy Award winner submitted SirDavis under the pseudonym Davis Hogue Distilling Company. Winning multiple awards including Best of Class at the 2023 Sip Awards and a gold medal at the 2023 New York International Spirits Competition.
SirDavis American Whisky, bottle design and production are all tied to Beyoncé's Texas roots. Photo by Julian Dakdouk
Master Distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden helped craft SirDavis which is composed of 51 percent rye and 49 percent malted barley.
“With SirDavis, we looked to challenge the category norms and offer something new in the space. The distinctive grain selection and unusual secondary maturation in sherry casks helped us achieve a signature profile completely unique to SirDavis, one of bold sophistication. ”
At roughly $90, the notably barley-rich whisky is intended to draw inspiration from the mouthfeel and texture of Japanese and Scotch whiskies. It is currently available for pre-order on the brand’s official website and will be released across the U.S. in September 2024.
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Beyoncé Makes History Topping Hot Country and R&B/Hip-Hop Charts
Beyoncé achieves a historic milestone as the first woman to lead both the Hot Country Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop charts. We discuss it here!
Beyoncé poses during a photshoot to promote upcoming Country album.
Photo cred: @Beyonce IG
It's time to add another significant distinction to the epic story that has been the career of one Beyonce Knowles. The Houston, Texas native has now made history becoming the first woman ever to top both the Country and R&B/Hip Hop charts.
According to sources, thanks to her latest single “Texas Hold ‘Em,” The 32 time Grammy Award winner is also the first Black woman to debut atop the Country charts. Along with the record breaking track, Bey released a second single “16 Carriages” in a surprise album announcement played during this year's Super Bowl. The Verizon ad showed a montage of different riffs that included “Beyonc-A.I.,” “Bar-bey” and even a presidential “BOTUS.” Before the commercial ended she uttered the phrase “Drop the new music,” soon after Beyonce’s official website updated with the announcement of “Renaissance Act II”.
With a strong backing from the Bey-hive, both singles have reportedly brought in millions of official streams, as the anticipation for her latest release mounts.
Beyoncé's #TEXASHOLDEM on Billboard — so far:
— BEYONCÉ LEGION (@BeyLegion) February 20, 2024
• First Black woman in history to debut at #1 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
• Highest Billboard Hot 100 debut ever, 27 years into her career.
• #1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs.
• #1 debut on Billboard's Digital Song Sales.… pic.twitter.com/dC2AS2Jb4C
Though staying true to her Texas roots Beyonce’s transition into the country music scene hasn’t always been well received. Initially an Oklahoma-based country music station refused to play the single despite the song's significant traction.
A displeased fan took to Twitter, exposing an email showing the station declined their request to play “Texas Hold’Em.”
I requested Texas Hold ‘Em at my local country radio station (KYKC) and after requesting, i received an email from the radio station stating “We do not play Beyoncé on KYKC as we are a country music station. @BeyLegion pic.twitter.com/eQksQemk6m
— JUSTIN 🫧 (@jussatto) February 13, 2024
Feeling the sting of the Beyhive, the radio station initially claimed they never received the copies of the singles but has since added the songs to the rotation.
In a statement, the station’s General Manager explained the email denying the music request.
“We initially refused to play it in the same manner if someone requested us to play the Rolling Stones on our country station. We are not a ‘big boy’ station and getting record companies to service us is tough. But…finally we got our hands on it, and based on the fan support, we decided to air it…truthfully, normally we would wait a while to see how the song performs on the charts and on bigger country stations than ours, as we are just the little guys.”
Later adding…
“We love Beyoncé’. We just were behind this country music changeover…. But, now that she’s coming out as a country artist, we want to be all over it……we are not fools…we know how big she is and we are happy to air it and wish her the best success.”
Beyoncé and the Beyhive have done it again!
Bey’s full-length country album is set to arrive on March 29th.
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Former Destiny's Child Members Make Surprise Visit at Beyoncé's Houston Show
A special arrival of former Destiny's Child members made Beyoncé's tour performance that much better. Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams, LaTavia Roberson, and LeToya Luckett were all in attendance for the Renaissance World Tour at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. We discuss it here!
LeToya Luckett, Beyoncé Knowles, LaTavia Roberson, and Kelly Rowland of Destiny's Child
CREDIT: COLUMBIA RECORDS
By: Jayla Smith
A special arrival of Destiny's Child members showered the NRG Stadium with a grand surprise. Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams, LaTavia Roberson, and LeToya Luckett were all in attendance for the Renaissance World Tour at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. The last time we saw DC3 (Kelly, Beyonce, and Michelle) was at Beychella in 2018 when the girls struck the crowd with the iconic Charlie's Angels pose. With the background music to 'Girl' by DC3 and a mashup with 'Lose My Breath,' we knew that this reunion would be one for the books.
Yet, we saw the girls come together with two more original members in Houston. Only missing Farrah Franklin, the crowd was surprised to see the group back together once more. Does this foreshadow that the singing group will take the stage soon in a reconciliation stage tour? The dreamers can only imagine. There has been high-speed talk of 'what if's' and hypotheses of this actually coming to pass.
Destiny's Child - Medley | Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival 2018 (4K)
Since the 1990s, the bunch has played excessively on all platforms. Even when Beyoncé became a solo artist, the love for Destiny's Child remains perpetually extant. Gradually coming to an end of the Renaissance tour, we can only pray that this will all come true. We would love to see these legendary women holding hands and optimistically setting their next stage on fire.
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How To Be Beyonced | A Guide On How To Eat The Girls Up At The Renaissance Tour
Beyoncé is making her way through the U.S. on her Renaissance Tour, and her fans are showing out in all silver! Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your fashion is on point for the concert! We Discuss it here!
Beyoncé
Credit: Formation World Tour
By: Jayla Smith
The Renaissance tour has quickly navigated its way to the big city. Beyoncé just celebrated her birthday in LA this past Monday and let’s just say the girls ate that silver fashion right on up! Excuse me, we are the visuals!!! Silver is not the easiest of colors to pull off, but I want to help you make sense of your fashion sense and by the time you’re done getting dressed, you will be Beyoncéddddd with an extra ‘ssssss’. The new terminology that states your fit might’ve been touched by the Queen herself, so let’s get into it.
I want to talk to the girls that wants to make whatever they have in their closet work first, so this is for you:
Minimum to Maximum:
What you need are jeans, boyfriend/girlfriend jeans or shorts. If you go with the jeans – you need a plain white shirt, rather if it’s a white tank, beater, crop, any would honestly do.
You want to make sure the bottoms are loose since you want your top tight as possible and I mean as hell. Now you accessorize: Add any jewelry, big silver necklace or a long silver chain. To go a step further, you can bedazzle your hair and put some silver studs in your ear. Wear white shoes and make sure you have a clutch that has a little silver in it or shoot, even the whole thing. Take your time on your makeup and hair and just like that you look like that girl.
With only seven more days left of the tour, my sisters, we have to get it together!!! Bey said to wear silver so if you have the coins to make this happen, let’s get into it. If not, it’s OK don’t fret, follow the advice above!
Photo credit: @kiana.haywood thinking outside the box with clothes she already had in her closet. If make it work was a person
Think Big, Think Beyoncé:
There’s so many stores to shop online, but make sure you’re not following the trend everyone else is doing, but if you are – the idea is to wear the pieces in an unconventional way. For example, if you find that same, cute, silver skirt that all the girlies are wearing, then figure out how to wear it as a shirt and vice versa. Go get some hoops from your local beauty supply and click them thangs all through your ponytail.
Zara, Fashion Nova, Shein have a lot of silver options. Use the site to your advantage and see how you can add a twist to your look. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Think Big, think Beyoncé.
Photo credit: @michymilli on instagram styling and profiling
Less Clothes, More Thought:
And lastly, less is more (well, less clothes at least). A see-through outfit that has sparkles with a black bodysuit underneath will do you good. Pair it with some comfortable shoes. I got my sparkly converse dupes from Fashion Nova.
Plus, they’re on sale now! Wear your shorts – the shortest of shorts. No matter the color, add sparkles, foil, anything – then pair it with a cute bralette, and an oversized blazer.
Remember, the key is accessories! Either way, it’s not what you wear, it's who’s wearing it. So whatever you wear, just make sure you are confident! It’s you – and you are beautiful inside and out. Make sure you tag us in your fits @247liveculture. We would love to see how our article assisted you in your Beyoncéd journey!
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Beyoncé's Los Angeles Takeover: A Recap of Night 1 of the Renaissance World Tour
Last night Beyoncè shut Inglewood down as night 1 of 3 of the Renaissance World Tour began at the Sofi Stadium. We discuss it here!
Beyoncé opens the first of three shows at SoFi Stadium in a stately Tamara Ralph design, styled by Shiona Turini. Hair by Neal Farinah. Makeup by Rokael Lizama. Jewelry by Tiffany & Co.
Photographer: Mason Poole
Last night Beyoncè shut Inglewood down as night 1 of 3 of the Renaissance World Tour began at the Sofi Stadium. Everyone got the Queen’s wardrobe requests as the entire stadium shimmered in their finest silver fashions for the occasion. If you’ve ever seen Beyoncè in concert before, you know that she doesn’t curate an opening act kind of show. With all of the star quality in LA, she switched up her game. Who better to get a crowd warmed up than DJ Khaled himself?
Bringing some of his comrades along for the ride, Khaled summoned 2Chainz to the stage to perform an ode to the Virgos with Birthday Song. There were also performances and appearances from Wiz Khalifa, Roddy Ricch, Coi Leray, Offset, and the legendary Lil Wayne. Due to technical difficulties, Weezy wasn’t able to perform his track but he showed his gratitude for being a part of the set nonetheless.
At 8:56 P.M. the screen changed to read Beyonce with a stunning photo of the songstress. The bee-hive began to rush to find their seats as this was the cue that the Renaissance was about to begin. Appearing from the clouds in the black drop in a black suede dress with diamond-crusted flowers as her breastplate she serenaded the crowd with her first solo single Dangerously In Love. After performing just one song the Renaissance Founder received a one-minute-long standing ovation from her fans. Continuing to set the tone for the musical journey ahead she finished Act One with Flaws and All, 1+1, I Care, and River Deep Mountain High as a dedication to Tina Turner.
Beyoncé opens the first of three shows at SoFi Stadium in a stately Tamara Ralph design, styled by Shiona Turini. Hair by Neal Farinah. Makeup by Rokael Lizama. Jewelry by Tiffany & Co.
Photo Credit: Mason Poole
In the next act, she dived into her Renaissance bag and changed into her finest silver fashions with a pink floor-length mink - because make it fashion! This set began with a clip of her cameo on Lift Off mixed into 7/11 where the Les Twins commanded the stage to do what they do best, entertain! The crowd on night 1 set the bar high for the two upcoming shows as the Sofi Stadium went completely mute during Beyonce’s performance of Energy. With the crowd's energy at an all-time high and Mrs.Carter feeling herself, she stopped to give the crowd an important message.
“The mic is warm.”
Warm it was. Her live vocals are astonishing and remained in tune and on point the entire night. As the show moved into the opulence phase the hive anticipated the arrival of the prodigal Blue Ivy Carter who did not disappoint. It is clear that Blu is finding her comfort zone being on the big stage. This might have been her best performance yet! Making her exit with her signature heart hands and sassy walk, the crowd cheered her on with great support and excitement.
Beyoncé at the first of three shows at SoFi Stadium in Danielle Frankel, styled by Shiona Turini. Hair by Neal Farinah. Makeup by Rokael Lizama. Jewelry by Tiffany & Co.
Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur
Beyoncè’s latest materpiece Renaissance displays her creative genius and versatility on all levels. She put it all on the floor giving the audience everything they’ve been craving including Thique, All Up In Your Mind, and the Dubai rendition of Drunk In Love. The night ended with Queen Bee floating on a silver horse above the crowd giving us vocal heaven with Summer Renaissance.
Beyoncé at first of three shows at SoFi Stadium wearing Gucci, styled by Shiona Turini. Hair by Neal Farinah. Makeup by Rokael Lizama. Jewelry by Tiffany & Co.
Photographer: Mason Poole
Just two days away from her 42nd birthday Beyoncè is continously working and making history. After 26 years in the game, she continues to raise the bar for artists and performers with every tour. Whether you were a fan of the Renaissance album or not, this tour has something for Beyonce fans of every era that is unforgettable. She will hit the stage on September 2nd and again on her birthday September 4th at the Sofi Stadium in Los Angeles. Which night do you think will get the best show?
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Shawn Carter Foundation's 20th Anniversary Gala Raises $20 Million
The Shawn Carter Foundation celebrates its 20th year anniversary with a star-studded gala, raising $20 million to support education for individuals facing socio-economic hardships. We discuss it here!
By: Joshua Martin
The Shawn Carter Foundation celebrated its 20th year anniversary with a black tie gala event at Pier Sixty in New York City that brought out some of the most influential names in sports, music, business and entertainment. The event raised $20 million dollars to help people facing socio economic hardships further their education at postsecondary institutions.
The fundraising included a $10 million legacy donation from Amazon founder and entrepreneur Jeff Bezos. Twitter co-founder and Square CEO Jack Dorsey also donated an additional $2 million as a part of his annual contributions. Those donations will help the organization kick start multiple initiatives, including an international exchange program, scholarships, and community goodwill and emergency assistance programs.
The Shawn Carter Foundation and Robert Kraft's Foundation to Combat Anti-Semitism join forces in a $2 million partnership aimed at safeguarding educational freedom and combating nationwide book bans, providing crucial resources such as book donations, legal support, and assistance to protect both creatives and educational institutions affected by these bans, with additional support from Fanatics and Live Nation.
Jay-Z, Ms. Carter, and even the “Queen Bee” herself was in attendance. Beyonce even took to social media to share a series of photos and a video montage of the night's festivities.
Other guests included musical artists DJ Khaled, Lil Uzi Vert, Meek Mill, Babyface, Miguel, Tinashe, A$AP Ferg and Saint Jhn. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and Fanatics founder Michael Rubin were also in attendance, as well as Regina Hall, Chazz Palminteri, Robinson Cano, Dez Bryant, Angie Martinez, Corey Gamble, Tamika Mallory, Zane Lowe, Ebro Darden and more.
The Shawn Carter Foundation was cofounded in 2003 by Jay-Z and his mother Gloria Carter and is committed to empowering underserved youth and families through college scholarships, educational tours and wealth-building programs.
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Beyoncé & Kelly Rowland Are Set To Build Housing Complexes For The Homeless in Houston
Beyoncé and Kelly are coming together to give back to their community by providing 31 new homes in the Houston midtown area which will be known as the Knowles-Rowland project. We discuss it here!
Beyonce Knowles and Kelly Rowland arriving at the 2007 BET Awards. The Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, CA. 06-26-07
Credit: s_bukley via Shutterstock
By: Gentel Sharrie
The former group Destiny’s Child is still creating destinies. The two iconic ladies Beyoncé and Kelly are coming together to give back to their community by blessing the people of Houston with housing. They are calling it the Knowles-Rowland project. The housing project will provide 31 new homes in the Houston midtown area.
The housing project will cost around $8.4 million dollars, and the American Rescue Plan is donating $7.2 million dollars to the project. The housing project will have case managers, peer specialists, physical behavior support and more.
Right now Beyoncé is on her Renaissance tour and when she makes her way to Houston she plans to make a bigger announcement about the new housing complex her and Kelly are launching together.
Beyoncé and Kelly both started out together in the legendary singing group called Destiny’s Child which was formed in the 1990’s. The group mainly consisted of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams with former members Farrah Franklin, LeToya Luckett, and LaTavia Roberson. They achieved great success in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like "Say My Name," "Survivor," and "Bootylicious." The group eventually disbanded in 2006, but the members have continued to have successful solo careers.
Beyoncé is known for her powerful vocals, captivating performances, and empowering lyrics. She has released numerous hit songs, including "Crazy in Love," "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)," and "Formation." Beyoncé has also acted in films such as Dreamgirls and The Lion King. She is considered one of the most influential and successful artists in contemporary music. Kelly Rowland has released several solo albums, including "Simply Deep" and "Here I Am," which spawned hit singles like "Dilemma" featuring Nelly and "Motivation" featuring Lil Wayne. Rowland has also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows such as Freddy vs. Jason, Empire and American Soul." Additionally, she has been a judge on reality TV competitions like "The X Factor" and "The Voice Australia. Beyoncé and Kelly both continue to be an influential figure in the music industry.
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Reggae Sensation Etana Talks Grammy Nomination And Breaking Barriers For Women In Reggae
Female reggae sensation, Etana, was the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category. We talked with Etana about her Grammy awards experience and breaking barriers for women in Reggae!
By: Omar Cook
Female reggae sensation, Etana, was the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category. The last time a female artist was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. Etana’s Reggae Forever album was nominated alongside Black Uhuru for As the World Turns, Ziggy Marley for Rebellion Rises, Protoje for A Matter of Time and Grammy Award winners for Best Reggae Album, Sting & Shaggy for 44/876.
Etana, whose real name is Shauna McKenzie, is a soulful singer and songwriter. She made international waves with her fifth album Reggae Forever which debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one. Her fourth album I Rise also debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one and her album Better Tomorrow debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number seven. Etana made history as the first female with back-to-back top albums on the Billboard Reggae Chart. Her unique sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz.
Etana is an artist that is breaking barriers for women in Reggae and her success is giving other women pursuing a music career inspiration to keep pushing. Etana speaks about her 2019 Grammy Awards experience and hitting the red carpet at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA!
Etana - Free Part 2
We talked with Etana in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?
Etana: I've been singing since I was eight years old. I wanted to be a nurse or a doctor but music called me in and I knew music was it for me. I started professionally in music in 2000.
QUESTION: MUSICALLY, WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN HELPING YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY AND WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIANS?
Etana: Bob Marley, Jay-Z, Bruno Mars, Beyonce to Dolly Parton. They sing about their own life experiences. That speaks to me. When you listen to songs that explores life experiences especially to things that we can all relate to, you're sure to love it. I feel my music connects with people as they can relate to my songs either they have those same experiences or may be experiencing it right now.
Etana on the Red Carpet at the Grammy Awards 2019
QUESTION: YOUR ALBUM REGGAE FOREVER WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST REGGAE ALBUM THIS YEAR AT THE GRAMMYS! WHAT WAS YOUR INITIAL FEELING WHEN YOU FOUND OUT YOU WERE NOMINATED AND WHAT WAS THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE LIKE SHARING THE NOMINATION WITH OTHER GREAT REGGAE ARTISTS SUCH AS STING, SHAGGY, BLACK UHURU, AND ZIGGY MARLEY?
Etana: So excited! It's an honor that Reggae Forever has been recognized by the Recording Academy with a Best Reggae Album nomination and to be amongst these talented nominated artists and award-winning artists. I'm truly delighted to have made an album independently that was well received by so many people around the world.
QUESTION: YOU WERE THE FIRST FEMALE IN 21 YEARS TO BE NOMINATED FOR A GRAMMY AWARD IN THE BEST REGGAE ALBUM CATEGORY. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON REPRESENTING WOMEN IN REGGAE AND WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO BREAK BARRIERS?
Etana: Having five albums that have all rocketed to the Billboard Reggae Chart is impressive. Being the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category is monumental. The last time that a female was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. I'm a reggae artist who wants to preserve and grow our music and to promote love and inspire, so that it makes way for endless opportunities for reggae artists to have. Women in reggae have come a long way but we still have a long way to go and I intend on breaking as many closed doors and barriers as much as possible.
Etana - I Rise | Official Music Video
QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS YOUR BEST SONG/PROJECT EVER RELEASED AND WHY?
Etana: All of them! I'm proud of all of them! My album Reggae Forever. I was extremely happy when I learned that my first independent project made it to number one and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae album. The album is distributed by Tad's Records. I think audiences appreciate that Reggae Forever was independently produced, it's eclectic and the main message is love as well as it tells many stories and keeps the listener engaged.
QUESTION: WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEAR FUTURE?
Etana: I'm in the process with my sixth studio album and I’m looking forward to releasing a single from that album soon. I will be going on tour in the U.S. this year and will be touring the U.K and other countries.
For up-to-the-minute news and information on my music and shows, visit www.etantathestrongone.com and follow at Facebook @OneEtana and Instagram @EtanaStrongOne and Twitter @EtanaStrongOne.
QUESTION: HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC TO PEOPLE AND WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM OTHER ARTISTS IN YOUR GENRE?
Etana: My sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz. My music has a bit of everything for everyone. It is wonderful to see many audiences deeply connected to my music.
QUESTION: WHAT SACRIFICES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE TO SEE YOUR DREAM BECOME A REALITY AND WHAT ARE SOME OBSTACLES THAT YOU HAVE OVERCOME?
Etana: We all go through hardships and sacrifices especially experiences throughout our life that shape us. Everything that I have experienced up to now has shaped me into the person I am today. I'm still learning and growing and feel that through hard work, perseverance, determination, knowledge, and self love is important to have and to continue it through life.
QUESTION: WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR MUSIC IN 5 YEARS?
Etana: I want to continue to make hits and to continue to make great music that people want to listen to. Two levels up at a time or more.
Etana - Spread Love (Official Music Video)
QUESTION: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?
Etana: Always work hard, keep improving your music and sound and believe in yourself.
QUESTION: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE SOME KEYS TO BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL MUSIC ARTIST?
Etana: Keep learning and growing. Continue to make great music and for longevity. Knowing as much about the business of music is important as well.
QUESTION: WITH IT BEING BLACK HISTORY MONTH, MUSIC HAS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE HISTORY OF AFRICAN AMERICANS! WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU LOOKING TO LEAVE BEHIND WITH YOUR MUSIC?
Etana: African American musicians and producers have made huge contributions to the history of music. As an African American female it is important to continue to enrich the culture of music. I want to make a lasting impression in the minds and hearts of little girls and boys of all races, religion, and lifestyles, all across the world.
Meet Joshua Martin, Senior Video Editor for 247 Live Culture!
Email: Joshua@247LCTV.com