Essence Awards 2026: Serving LOOKS

    Zendaya shut it DOWN wearing Whitney Houston's iconic white gownβ€”pure fashion history on that blue backdrop. Everyone was runway realness from every angle: regal capes, gold floral accents, power shoulders, velvet drama. Black excellence dripping in

    Breaking news:

    Jay-Z Stadium: Reasonable Doubt & Blueprint Anniversary

    Jay-Z is set to celebrate two of his most iconic albums with back-to-back concerts at Yankee Stadium this summer: the 30th anniversary of Reasonable Doubt on July 10 and the 25th anniversary of The Blueprint on July 11.

    Usher & Justin Bieber Clash at BeyoncΓ© & Jay-Z After-Party

    Usher and Justin Bieber had a heated verbal confrontation at BeyoncΓ© and Jay-Z's exclusive Oscars after-party, with insiders saying Usher approached with energy and anger but no punches were thrown. The tense exchange unfolded amid a star-studded crowd including Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Michael B. Jordan, Teyana Taylor, and Hailey Bieber, though the reason remains unclear.

    Nina Turner & Tamika Mallory Spill the Tea on Target Boycott Future

    Nina Turner and Tamika Mallory spill the tea on the Target boycott's future, firmly distancing themselves from Pastor Jamal Bryant in an explosive TheGrio exclusive.

    Teyana Taylor Named First-Ever Chief Curator of Essence Festival 2026

    Teyana Taylor has been named the inaugural Chief Curator of the 2026 Essence Festival of Culture, bringing her creative collective The Aunties to shape one of Black culture's most beloved annual events. The festival runs July 3–5 in New Orleans.

    Featured Articles

    Teyana Taylor Named First-Ever Chief Curator of Essence Festival 2026

    Teyana Taylor has been named the inaugural Chief Curator of the 2026 Essence Festival of Culture, bringing her creative collective The Aunties to shape one of Black culture's most beloved annual events. The festival runs July 3–5 in New Orleans.

    Travis Scott and T.I. Urge Supreme Court to Rule That Tying Lyrics to Death Sentences Is Unconstitutional

    Travis Scott and a handful of artists are defending a Black Texas man on death row whose rap lyrics were used as evidence during sentencing for a double murder, arguing that using the lyrics to justify capital punishment is unconstitutional. (SCOTUS)

    The Lost Story of Upsilon Delta Pi

    In 1910 Chicago, nine Black high schoolers formed the Do-Li-So Club, rebranding as Upsilon Delta Pi Sorority by 1911. Facing a public school ban on Greek orgs, they boldly incorporated on Dec. 7, 1911β€”making them America's first incorporated Black sorority.

    Eritrea Women’s Day 2026: Our Values, Our Shield

    The spirit of resilience and unity was palpable this...

    Adjani Salmon Calling Out the Entertainment Industry

    β€˜Dreaming Whilst Black’ creator Adjani Salmon exposes systemic issues and calls out the entertainment industry following the release of season two.

    BREAKING

    EJ Johnson: “Cuter Than Any Girl” in Women’s Outfits

    EJ Johnson is leaving no crumbs! πŸ”₯ During a highly-discussed interview with Carlos King, the fashion icon confidently declared that they look "cuter than any girl" when stepping out in women's outfits. From their glamorous looks to their unfilter

    Lens App Explained: Why Creators Should Pay Attention

    Lens is a new social platform that gives creators full ownership of their content and audience, offering a powerful alternative to traditional apps that control reach, monetization, and visibility.

    Aldis Hodge & Isaiah Mustafa: Cross Stars Unleashed

    Cross is built on brotherhood, and ESSENCE is giving Aldis Hodge and Isaiah Mustafa the full leading‑man treatment for it. In their March 2026 feature, the duo breaks down how Prime Video’s Cross isn’t just another crime thrillerβ€”it’s a character stu

    Cardi B’s Implant Dislodges During Performance (Video)

    During her headlining set in Houston last week, fans in the front row claim one specific stunt went too far, with onlookers suggesting an implant may have actually broken loose after she slammed her backside against a chair during her performance.

    Mama Tina’s Gumbo Shuts Down at Houston Rodeo, Reopens Next Day

    Mama Tina's Gumbo booth at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was temporarily shut down by the health department on Monday following a complaint investigation, but reopened the next day after addressing the issue.

    Cam’ron Asks Ma$e & Shyne About Brandy Love Triangle

    During a recent podcast episode, Cam'ron revealed that both Ma$e and Shyne were dating Brandy in 1998 without knowing about each other, causing tension at Bad Boy Records once the truth came out. Ma$e compared himself to Shaq while Shyne aligned with Kobe in describing their dynamic.

    Pras MichΓ©l Drops Lauryn Hill Lawsuit Before Prison

    Pras MichΓ©l Drops Lawsuit Against Lauryn Hill Ahead of Prison Sentence

    DJ Mustard Wins Custody Battle Against Ex-Wife

    DJ Mustard Will Make School Decisions for Kids in Legal Win Over Ex-Wife

    Afroman Testifies in Lawsuit Against Sheriff’s Deputies Who Raided His Home

    Afroman testified that the deputies' likenesses appear in his songs because he used his home security footage, arguing his First Amendment free speech right. He said the raid caused the lawsuit and they owe him money.

    Gunna’s Company Sues X Games Promoters Over Unpaid Performance Fees

    Gunna got duped into performing at an X Games concert by shady concert promoters who lured him to Colorado with promises of a payday that never came, according to a lawsuit. His touring company says the promoters promised $500,000 but have not paid.!!

    Mystikal Guilty Plea: 20-Year Sentence for Rape Charge

    Louisiana rapper Mystikal has pleaded guilty to a serious charge stemming from a 2022 assault case. However, he ultimately pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of third-degree rape. He is now facing up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for June.

    Megan Thee Stallion Slams Hotties Anime Rumors

    Megan Thee Stallion shut down viral rumors claiming a leaked animated clip was a preview of her upcoming Prime Video anime Hotties, explaining the footage actually came from an unreleased music video for Gift & A Curse from her album Traumazine.

    BREAKING

    Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black Season 2 Part 2 Is Streaming Now β€” Kimmie...

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    Beauty in Black Season 2 Part 2 drops on Netflix today with 8 new episodes. Here's what to expect from Kimmie's full takeover of the Bellarie beauty empire and what the final season renewal means.

    Brandy Shyne: We Never Dated + Response to Ray J

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    Brandy clarified she had a platonic friendship with rapper Shyne in the late 90s, not a romantic relationship, addressing misconceptions that resurfaced after his recent media tour. She also distanced herself from her brother Ray J's viral rant while emphasizing she prefers to handle situations on her own terms.

    Oscars 2026 In Memoriam Left Out Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Demond Wilson & More Black Legends

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    The Academy expanded the 2026 Oscars In Memoriam segment and still left Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Demond Wilson, Angie Stone, Roy Ayers, and others off the broadcast β€” a pattern the Black community has documented and called out for years running.
    Mary J. Blige Calls 50 Cent a 'Beautiful Person' β€” But Warns About His 'Wrong Side'

    Mary J. Blige Calls 50 Cent a ‘Beautiful Person’ β€” But Warns About His...

    0
    Mary J. Blige went on Big Boy's Neighborhood and delivered the most honest take on 50 Cent anyone has offered all year β€” praising him as a boss, a friend, and a man capable of real vulnerability, while making clear his "wrong side" is not to be tested.

    Fetty Wap Zavier After Prison Album – I Feel New Again

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    Fetty Wap is officially stepping back into the spotlight β€” and he's doing it on his own terms. Just months after being released from prison, the Grammy-nominated artist revealed his comeback album Zavier is set to drop on March 27, marking a new chapter in his life and career.

    Rick Ross Sends Cease and Desist to Remy Ma Over Biggest Boss Movie

    0
    Rick Ross to Remy Ma There's Only One 'Biggest Boss' ... Stop Stealing My IP!!!

    ICE Releases Black Woman From Detentionβ€”Found Dead

    0
    Pittsburgh is mourning the mysterious death of Daphy Michel, a 31-year-old Haitian asylum seeker found unresponsive at a South Side bus shelter last week.

    Ray J Threatens Cam’Ron & Mase In Shocking Diss Track

    0
    Cam'ron and Mase brought Shyne onto their podcast and joked about having dated Brandy at the same time. Ray J retaliated on a livestream, threatening to assault them and promising crew would sexually assault them as punishment, prompting legal action.

    Teyana Taylor Clears the Air on X

    Teyana Taylor clapped back on X after a viral Oscars clip made her look β€œextra.” The singer-actress says she only checked a security guard for putting hands on her after the show wrapped, not for losing, and refuses to apologize for defending her boundaries.

    Jayme Lawson Challenges Pressure for Perfect Black Characters in Film

    'Sinners' star Jayme Lawson is challenging Hollywood's pressure for perfect Black characters, demanding nuanced, flawed, and authentic portrayals instead.

    Tiffany Haddish Dating Preference: The Viral Diaspora Debate

    Tiffany Haddish has sparked a massive viral diaspora dating debate after explicitly stating her preference for non-American Black men. Discover why social media is completely divided.

    Vanessa Williams Shares: I Was Sexually Abused at 10, Became Promiscuous Teen (Video)

    Vanessa Williams candidly discusses her childhood trauma, revealing how she overcame immense pain, public scrutiny, and found the strength to heal.

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    Lifestyle

    Lens App Explained: Why Creators Should Pay Attention

    Lens is a new social platform that gives creators full ownership of their content and audience, offering a powerful alternative to traditional apps that control reach, monetization, and visibility.

    Nene Leakes Shows Off Stunning New Look After Transformation

    At 58, NeNe has managed to avoid the overly done look that so many celebrities fall into after years of procedures. Instead of dramatic surgeries all at once, she takes a maintenance approach, visiting her surgeon for small tweaks every few years.

    Doja Cat Borderline Personality Disorder: Her Agonizing Health Battle

    Doja Cat has courageously opened up about her devastating mental health diagnosis. The superstar described her ongoing battle with Borderline Personality Disorder as β€œagonizing,” shedding light on her personal journey and sparking a wave of global support.

    Technology

    X Enforces New Restrictions on AI-Generated Conflict Videos

    X has officially rolled out strict new policies targeting creators who post AI-generated war footage without disclosure. Here is what you need to know about the crackdown.

    Android Users Will Soon Be Able To Share Live Video With 911 Responders

    Android users across the U.S. are about to get a major safety upgrade with a new feature rolling out to emergency platforms that will allow 911 responders to access a live video feed straight from a caller’s phone during critical moments. According to The Verge, if someone calls 911 for a medical emergency, responders will be able to tap into the live feed to guide the caller until help arrives.

    Viral Black and White AI Rihanna Video Sparks Industry Debate (Video On Our Site)

    A hyper-realistic black and white AI-generated music video of Rihanna has hit the internet, blurring the lines between reality and simulation. The clip has ignited a firestorm of debate regarding the future of human creativity and the threat of AI in the music industry.

    AI Nicki Minaj vs Cardi B Boxing Match

    They created an AI boxing fight video between Nicki Minaj & Cardi B 😱😱😱

    Iconic Memes, Reimagined Black

    In honor of Black History Month, We have made some of our favorite memes Black. Your welcome. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlkCosmo

    The Vince Reunion Is Finally Here

    Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, two of the most electrifying players in NBA historyβ€”and real-life cousinsβ€”are teaming up for a groundbreaking new project: the video podcast, Cousins, set to premiere exclusively on the AMP Sports network.

    Influencer Kristy Sarah Scott Files for Divorce From Husband Desmond Scott

    When a marketing team falls apart... Social media influencer Kristy Sarah Scott has filed for divorce from her husband Desmond Scott.

    Food

    Celebrate Banana Bread Day

    Today marks National Banana Bread Day, celebrating the ultimate comfort bake born from Great Depression ingenuity when thrifty American cooks mashed overripe bananas into quick bread using newfound baking powderβ€”no waste, all sweet genius.

    Judge Rules Buffalo Wild Wings Can Keep Calling Them β€œBoneless Wings” Despite Lawsuit

    An Illinois judge ruled that Buffalo Wild Wings can continue calling its popular menu item β€œboneless wings,” rejecting a lawsuit that claimed they should be labeled as β€œchicken nuggets.”

    Rihanna’s Billionaire Grocery Run

    Billionaire Rihanna shopping at Bristol Farms yesterday. She’s so real πŸ₯Ή

    Soul Food: 10 Must-Visit Black-Owned Restaurants

    Soul food β€” two words that immediately bring a smile to my face, with a nostalgia reminding me of my Nana in the kitchen. Soul food is an offering of food that comes from the heart and feeds the soul. It’s more than comfort food, having a legacy of it

    Maryland Undergrads Host Community Food Drive

    Phi Beta Sigma undergrad chapters in Maryland hosted a food drive, "Standing on Business," collecting donations to create over 300 care packages for local shelters. "It's always great to serve our community and help those in need."

    Bowmore’s $80,000 Aston Martin Scotch Whisky Is Inspired By The Valkyrie Hypercar

    This 50-year-old whisky is priced for wealthy collectors only. Bowmore...

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    Michael Ilesanmi Confirms Divorce From Angela Deem

    Michael Ilesanmi confirms his divorce from Angela Deem, closing the chapter on their turbulent 90 Day FiancΓ© relationship and signaling a fresh start after years in the public spotlight.

    Rihanna Breaks RIAA Record for Most Diamond-Certified Hits

    Rihanna has officially secured her spot in music history, breaking the RIAA record for the most diamond-certified hits by a female artist.

    Jesse Williams Under Fire: Claims of Infidelity Surface Online

    The β€œside piece” claims she has been Jesse’s secret β€œlow-key” boo for eight years, describing how he would allegedly sneak her into hotels while out on the red carpet with his famous girlfriends.

    Kiki Shepard, β€˜Showtime at the Apollo’ Icon, Dead at 74

    Kiki Shepard, the beloved longtime co-host of Showtime at the Apollo, has passed away at age 74. She suffered a massive heart attack in Los Angeles on Monday, becoming a household name during her legendary run on the show from 1987 to 2002 alongside Steve Harvey.

    Cardi B Puts Canadian Fans on Notice

    Cardi B just put her Canadian fans on notice! 🚨 The superstar rapper took to social media to call out Hamilton, Ontario, for being the only city on her Little Miss Drama Tour not at 100% capacity. Dubbing them 'Banadians', her hilarious rant immed

    Michael B. Jordan Makes Oscar History with β€˜Sinners’ Win

    In one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 awards season, Jordan took home the Best Actor Oscar for his powerful performance in Sinners, where he played twin brothers Smoke and Stack in a southern vampire epic directed by Ryan Coogler.

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    Travel

    Travel Fashion: Embrace Your Unique Style on the Go

    Fashion and travel are like distant cousins, different but still related. They both influence one another in various ways. One of the most apparent ways fashion is inspired by travel is through culture.

    Lucas Museum: Hobson & Lucas Honored

    Congratulations to Mellody Hobson and George Lucas on the upcoming opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles’ Exposition Park in 2026! A celebration of visual storytelling.

    China’s Tallest Bridge: Huajiang Grand Canyon

    China's Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, the world's tallest at 2,051 feet, offers breathtaking views and thrills like bungee jumping. This engineering marvel in Guizhou province transforms cross-canyon travel from hours to minutes, blending adventure with stunning scenery.

    Inside Motor Valley, Home Of Italy’s Most Iconic Automakers

    This hallowed strip of Northern Italy houses the headquarters...

    This French Beach Hotel Is A Mid-Century Style Stunner

    Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel is fresh off a multimillion-dollar...