Nike released a new version of the Air Force 1s which features an emblazoned image of Colin Kaepernick on the heel. The brand didn't let a little detail like their own partnership with the NFL stop their stride or collection of coins with the release of the shoe on December 23. The sneaker was made with premium black leather and features the letter K on the tongue of the sneaker. Kaepernick's image is seen on the heel of the shoe.The date "08 14 16" is also placed on the sole. The date signifies the first time the football player and activist kneeled in protest of police brutality and racism in the United States. His powerful gesture occurred during a preseason game between the Houston Texans and San Francisco 49ers."Nike partnered with a collective of collaborators to design an AF1 that connects to their life personally. Colin was identified because we believe his voice and perspective inspire many generations on and off the field," a Nike spokesperson told CNN.The sneakers sold out immediately and are currently not available on Nike's website or the SNKRS app.Apparently, pop icon Janet Jackson was able to cop a pair in support of the collaboration. View this post on Instagram
Thank you CK for my sneaks. I love’em 😘 @Kaepernick7A post shared by Janet Jackson (@janetjackson) on Jan 4, 2020 at 7:08am PST"Thank you CK for my sneaks. I love’em," the icon captioned with a kissy face emoji.Kaepernick responded with a Black fist and black heart emojis. View this post on Instagram
The Colin Kaepernick x Nike Air Force 1 drops worldwide today. Link in bio. #TrueTo7A post shared by colin kaepernick (@kaepernick7) on Dec 23, 2019 at 7:03am PSTJackson has been an advocate herself, speaking out against sexual violence, police brutality and HIV/AIDS awareness. "I believe for all our challenges, we live at a glorious moment in history. It's a moment when, at long last, women have made it clear that we will no longer be controlled, manipulated, or abused. I stand with those women and with those men equally outraged who support us in heart and mind. This is also a moment when our public discourse is loud and harsh," she said during her acceptance speech at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards.Kaepernick repped his collaboration with the sneaker giant and posted a few images of the sneaker on his Instagram page.Since 2016, Kaepernick has been a free agent due to his refusal to stand during the national anthem."I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder," Kaepernick said."This is not something that I am going to run by anybody. I am not looking for approval. I have to stand up for people that are oppressed," Kaepernick added. "If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right." Last month, Kaepernick attempted to mend the rift between him and the NFL by joining some players during an NFL workout. However, talks quickly soured as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league has moved on, as Blavity previously reported. Kaepernick continues to speak out against injustice while remaining an unsigned...
As we all know, the right song can catapult an artist from obscurity to superstardom pretty quickly. With an infectious beat, enticing hook and overall good vibe, a solid tune can instantly become a listener’s go-to soundtrack. But many of our favorite songs almost sounded a lot different because they were originally offered to other artists. We’ve put together a list of 10 hits that probably would have sounded different if they were recorded by the artists who had first dibs on them.1. 'How Will I Know' Famously Recorded By: Whitney Houston
Originally Offered To: Janet JacksonYouTube | Whitney HoustonAt the request of A&M Records, George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam penned the bubbly ‘80s hit, “How Will I Know,” for Janet Jackson. At the time, she was in the process of recording her third studio album, Control. Assured that the youngest daughter of the esteemed Jackson family would be perfect for the song, the writing duo sent the demo to Janet’s team. However, the songstress and her people took a hard pass on the track. Nonetheless, the song became the third single off of Houston’s self-titled debut album, charted at No.1 and made her a recognizable name and face on MTV.2. 'Nothin’ On You' Famously Recorded By: B.o.B
Originally Offered To: Lupe FiascoYouTube | Atlantic RecordsRacking up major airtime on Top 40 radio in 2009, “Nothin’ On You” became an instant hit and introduced then-budding artists B.o.B. and Bruno Mars to the scene. However, while their breakout moment seems lighthearted, rapper Lupe Fiasco was snubbed out of adding the track to his roster of successful tunes. According to The Guardian, the “Kick Push” artist wrote a version of the track for label executives, but apparently they weren’t interested, and instead chose B.o.B’s version as the victor. Fiasco reportedly told the publication that the rejection took a major toll on his mental health and he even considered committing suicide afterward.B.o.B and Mars’ infectious hit reached No.1 on U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and UK R&B charts.3. 'N****s in Paris' Famously Recorded By: Jay-Z and Kanye West
Originally Offered To: Pusha TYouTube | Kanye WestPusha T is just one of those rappers whose braggadocious vibe makes a song even hotter. While he’s graced several songs with high-quality features, one song, whose worth he couldn’t see, ended up going three-times platinum — "N****s in Paris.” The energizing track that ended up on Jay-Z and Kanye West’s iconic collaboration album, “Watch the Throne,” originally landed in the lap of King Push who just wasn’t feeling the beat. “Pusha said, ‘It sounds like a video game. Get that s**t out of here.’” Pusha T’s manager Steven Victor said in an interview with AskMen. We’re sure it’s still all love within the G.O.O.D. Music family, though.4. 'Just a Friend 2002'Famously Recorded By: Mario
Originally Offered To: UsherYouTube | MarioNow, this one even had me shook. I can only imagine how differently my adolescence would have been if “Just A Friend 2002” didn’t land in the hands of Mario. In 2000, on the heels of his successful sophomore album, My Way, Usher began recording tracks for a highly anticipated project called All About U, but most fans have probably never heard of it because it never got released. Fast forward two years later, Mario released his version of the shelved Warryn Campbell track from Usher’s canceled project. Though Usher’s version still exists out in the digital universe, Mario’s version wound up becoming his breakout hit, landing him at No.3 on the Billboard charts, and igniting our childhood crushes.5. 'Happy'Famously Recorded By: Pharrell
Originally Offered To: CeeLo GreenYouTube | Pharrell WilliamsBet you didn’t know “Happy,” the irresistible feel-good record that had everybody and their Mema smiling, clapping and singing back in 2013, was almost popularized by “F**k You” singer Cee Lo Green. In a 2014 Howard Stern Show interview, Skateboard P shared that the former Goodie Mob member had recorded his own version of “Happy” and reportedly sounded “amazing on it.” However, an intervention prevented Green’s rendition from being released. Luckily, there were no "f**k yous" exchanged afterward, Williams said. “He was one of the most gracious people about it when ['Happy'] came out.”6. 'Irreplaceable' Famously Recorded By: Beyoncé
Originally Written For: Shania Twain and Faith HillYouTube | BeyoncéBeyoncé has hits for days, and like King Midas, it seems that everything she touches turns to gold. However, one of her more popular global records, “Irreplaceable,” almost didn’t happen. In an interview with MTV News, producers Stargate and singer-songwriter Ne-Yo revealed that the catchy breakup song was not penned with Queen Bey in mind. As it turns out, Ne-Yo’s first and second choice to record the track was Shania Twain or Faith Hill. But when Beyoncé reportedly heard it, she loved it and jumped at the opportunity to secure the record. “Irreplaceable” rose to the top of four international charts and became one of the best-charting songs of Beyoncé’s career.7. 'Mercy'Famously Recorded By: Kanye West, Big Sean, 2 Chainz and Pusha T
Originally Offered To: Kid InkYouTube | Kanye WestOne of hip-hop’s most coveted collaborations of the early 2010s is “Mercy,” which shows off the lyrical prowess and unadulterated confidence of Kanye West, Big Sean, 2 Chainz and Pusha T in a 5-minute track. But reportedly Mr. West originally offered the beat to Los Angeles rapper-producer, Kid Ink, who passed on the record for integrity reasons. “I didn’t have a Murcielago, so it didn’t really make sense,” HipHopDX reported the rapper said in a radio interview with KMEL. “I didn’t have a Lambo, so I can’t really rap about this, because the hook was on there. I could’ve probably forced some ideas if I thought about it a little harder. I didn’t have any Lambos, so I just felt like I was faking it.”Good point, Ink. “Mercy” reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B and Hip-Hop charts.8. 'Doin' It'Famously Recorded By: LL Cool J
Originally Written For: Notorious B.I.G.YouTube | djpeiaHip-hop heartthrob LL Cool J had most women lusting and wondering with his 1995 hit “Doin’ It.” But, the provocative record that we’ve come to love and vibe to was originally meant for the Notorious B.I.G., according to The DJ Booth.The hip-hop site wrote about an interview between one of the song’s producers and a blogger named Sweeny Kovar. According to producer Rashad “Ringo” Smith “Doin’ It” was the intended first single for Biggie’s Life After Death album, but reportedly Bad Boy CEO P. Diddy was slow to cut the check for the producer’s beats. The “I Need Love” rapper then swooped in, offering double the amount of the Bad Boys mogul —cue the outrage from B.I.G. and Puffy. So what gave away that the hit single wasn’t originally for LL? Well, the fact that throughout the track, there’s a sample that says “Go Brooklyn” repeatedly, and the “Around The Way Girl” rapper is definitely a native of Hollis Queens. “Doin’ It” made it to No.9 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and No. 7 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs list.9. 'Pretty Hurts'Famously Recorded By: Beyoncé
Originally Written For: Rihanna and Katy PerryYouTube | BeyoncéThe story behind how Beyoncé got her hands on “Pretty Hurts” for her surprise-released self-titled album is a reminder for us to always keep your phone notifications on. Esteemed songwriter-singer Sia Furler penned the vulnerable track in her Los Angeles apartment and cut the song with producer Ammo. Furler told the New York Times that she then emailed the song to friend Katy Perry, but as fate would have it, the pop star did not see the message hit her inbox. “When Beyonce heard it, she slid into home base and just closed the deal,” Furler told the NYT. Eventually, Perry heard Beyonce’s version and instantly loved it. Afterward, she reportedly texted Furler, saying “I’m pretty hurt you never sent me this song,” to which Sia responded, “Check your email.”Damn. “Pretty Hurts” peaked at No. 1 on the U.S. Hot Dance Club Songs list in the summer of 2014.10. 'Gold Digger'Famously Recorded By: Kanye West and Jamie Foxx
Originally Offered To: ShawnnaYouTube | Kanye WestRemember during the early 2000s when Kanye and Jamie Foxx teamed up for some major collaborations on songs like “Slow Jamz” with Twista and “Gold Digger”? Well, apparently, the latter was originally offered to Disturbing Tha Peace artist Shawnna. Crazy, right? Patrick “Plain Pat” Reynolds, West’s A&R rep told MTV News in 2006 that the 808 and Heartbreaks artist created the song from a woman’s point of view and pitched it to the “Gettin’ Some” female emcee. Reportedly after seeing the Ray Charles biopic starring Jamie Foxx in theaters with fellow musician John Mayer, West was sold on having the singer-comedian included on the track. “Gold Digger” reached No.1 on charts in Australia, New Zealand and the U.S., even going seven-times Platinum on stateside.
Though the exchange of songs within the music industry is definitely commonplace, it’s hard for fans and listeners to wrap their minds around some of their favorite tracks being recorded by other artists. And while most of the final cuts are best for the charts — and frankly our ears— we can’t help but wonder what the lost demos from songs intended for the other artists would have sounded...
Many of us struggle to come up with gifts for our parents, but two sons managed to pull off an epic Father's Day gift for their dear dad. Keith B. Strawder Sr. is a longtime Janet Jackson fan and went viral in June when his sons bought him tickets to see Jackson in Las Vegas.Watch my dad’s reaction to him finding out that my brother and I are taking him to Las Vegas to see @janetjackson 😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/j34AYEp0cT— KB Strawder Jr. (@Real_KB) June 16, 2019 The heartfelt reaction racked up nearly 10,000 likes and caught the attention of Jackson, who surprised Strawder Sr. at the show on Sunday. Remember my dads reaction on Father’s Day to him finding out he was going to see @JanetJackson show in Las Vegas?....well we went to the show and there was one more surprise. pic.twitter.com/NjMAQOMWkN— KB Strawder Jr. (@Real_KB) August 11, 2019Strawder Sr. was stunned when Jackson surprised him with her near presence followed by an embrace. View this post on Instagram
#repost @janetjackson ・・・A post shared by KB | Purpose Speaker (@real_kb) on Aug 12, 2019 at 6:52am PDT
His son, KB, posted a bunch of photos of Jackson with their family. Twitter fell in love with his dad and the post nabbed nearly 400,000 likes.
View this post on Instagram
#MetamorphosisA post shared by KB | Purpose Speaker (@real_kb) on Aug 11, 2019 at 2:19pm PDTStrawder Sr. told Because Of Them We Can that he and Jackson are the same age and he's spent decades loving her music. The "Rhythm Nation" singer is not new at surprising her fans. Just last year the star surprised the winners of her #DanceWithJanet competition, according to People. The two dancers were selected out of 75,000 people ready to show Ms. Jackson their moves.Dancers Phillip Galbertand La'Vala "Lala" Moss got the privilege of performing behind her during the 2018 Billboard Music Awards. Jackson is finishing up her "Metamorphosis" Las Vegas residency after it was announced earlier in the year that she would be adding more...
Ever since 2004 when Ciara pulled up on the scene in a candy apple red Oldsmobile 442 during the music video for “Goodies,” she has danced into her own lane. Her personal brand has segued from sexy girl next door, to trap princess, to her current evolutionary iteration as a God-fearing mother and devoted wife. Still, Ciara has kept one thing consistent — that footwork.Ciara’s debut televised performance of her new single "Thinkin Bout You" airs on May 1, on the Billboard Music Awards. In celebration of her performance, it's only appropriate we give the choreographers behind some of Ciara's most memorable one-two steps some shine.Jamaica Craft
View this post on Instagram
@allencooley thank u for always capturing the great of my creativity!!! U inspire me and drive me more than u know... My brother a true visionary!!A post shared by Jamaica Craft (@jamaicacraft) on Aug 16, 2016 at 3:31pm PDTChances are if you've ever tried to do "that move" from your favorite music video, Jamaica Craft was behind it. She is credited for introducing Ciara's signature energetic, precise dance style. Craft’s creative portfolio includes "Goodies," "Body Party,” "Like A Boy" and "Promise." She’s also the mastermind that choreographed the moves to Usher's "Yeah!" and Justin Beiber's "Baby."YouTube | DS2DIO
When Craft spoke with Madame Noire, the self-taught dancer detailed how her love for music videos compelled her to pursue the career that has since made her a world-renowned choreographer. When Craft’s not choreographing for music artists, you can see her dance moves on television episodes and in films, including Fox's Empire, Lifetime’s Dance Moms and YouTube Red's Step Up: High Water.
YouTube | CiaraI remember trying to do this move in my grandmother's living room and tweaking my back.Galen Hooks View this post on Instagram
I need new photos! #nomoreplatinum #itwasfunwhileitlasted . @steventaylorA post shared by Galen Hooks (@galenhooks) on Apr 15, 2019 at 12:30pm PDT
In a DanceOn Youtube video, Hooks describes her work as "detail oriented" and "intentional movement." Ciara absolutely executes Hooks' vision in the video, which showcases the choreography for "Dance Like We're Making Love." The dance video will leave your computer screen steamy if you ain't careful.
YouTube | Ciara
The Los Angeles native has been in the entertainment industry since she was a child, even appearing as a junior dance champion on Star Search. YouTube | Galen HooksWith an extensive resumé spanning that spans television, film and Broadway, the choreographer has worked with over 50 artists, including Janet Jackson, Usher, The Pussycat Dolls, Chris Brown, Black Eyed Peas and Rhianna.Parris Goebel View this post on Instagram
👑A post shared by PARRI$ (@parrisgoebel) on Jul 26, 2018 at 11:13pm PDTAs if Ciara's literal level up wasn't evident enough, Parris Goebel's choreography for the “Level Up” track drove the point home. With splits that could send most to a physical therapist, Goebel's unapologetic style complimented a queen, who came back on the music scene with a vengeance.
YouTube | CiaraComing straight out of New Zealand, Goebel dropped out of high school with the confidence that she would one day own her own dance school. Goebel’s big break came after a friend uploaded their dance to Etta James' "I'd Rather Go Blind," according to a report from Noted. Once the video hit the web, it caught the attention of JLo, who recruited Goebel for an upcoming tour — and the rest is history. In addition to crafting some of Ciara’s now-iconic choreography, she’s also appeared on Dancing With The Stars and in the Step Up franchise. View this post on Instagram
So dope!This commercial I choreographed and directed for @anchorgostrong is nominated for @worldchoreographyawards for digital content. ✨Thank you so much! Full commercial on my IGTV . @kirstendodgen @kaeapearce @officialrequestdancecrewA post shared by PARRI$ (@parrisgoebel) on Sep 27, 2018 at 6:00pm PDTBonus: Anthony Thomas View this post on Instagram
Popping & Locking Basics Class @evolutionnoho begins Monday, Nov. 5th from 5:30pm-6:30pm!! $10.00 (cash only) #popping #locking #danceA post shared by Anthony Thomas (@officialanthonythomas) on Oct 30, 2018 at 12:26pm PDTTo be clear, Anthony Thomas has not choreographed any of Ciara's videos. Instead, he's the legendary talent behind Janet Jackson's “Rhythm Nation” performance. YouTube | The BEAST Network (TBSN)Thomas' work is literally a piece of pop culture and hip-hop history. In 2015, when BET announced they were doing a Janet Jackson tribute, everyone was keen to see if the goods (of goodies) would be delivered. Rest assured, Ciara did not disappoint.Thomas credits Soul Train as his inspiration. He blazed a trail of R&B and hip-hop greatness working with Luther Vandross as well as Tony! Toni! Toné! Thomas was even the choreographer for A Goofy Movie. (Let's take a moment to enjoy the vocals of the one true Tevin Campbell). YouTube | Nadia Vester"Thinking Bout You," the lead single from Ciara's seventh studio album Beauty Marks, is set to release on May 10, 2019.Now, check these out: Russell Wilson Becomes The Highest - Paid And Most Generous NFL Player After Giving His Teammates Stock In Amazon. Father Thanks Newly Drafted NFL Saving High School From Potentially Sexual Assault Jay-Z Called On Black People To 'Gentrify Your Own Hood' In Freestyle Dedicated To...
The patriarch of the iconic Jackson music family Joe Jackson has passed at 89 years old reports People. Jackson was reportedly staying at a Las Vegas hospital as his health deteriorated. He had terminal pancreatic cancer, according to TMZ. “He’s very very frail; he doesn’t have long. The family needs to be by his bedside – that’s our only intention in his final days,” Jermaine Jackson told The Daily Mail last week. Joe Jackson reportedly told the hospital not to allow his family to visit him and allegedly told hospital officials not to let family members have access to his medical records.Jackson's wife, Katherine Jackson, daughters Rebbie and Joh’Vonnie and granddaughter Yashi Brown did eventually visit him last Tuesday, June 19, however. Mr. Jackson's instructions were reportedly heard on a phone recording. "No one knew what was going on – we shouldn't have to beg, plead, and argue to see our own father, especially at a time like this,' Jermaine noted. "We have been hurting."In recent years, Joe Jackson has had several strokes and is said to be suffering from a form of dementia. "We were not being told where he was and couldn't get the full picture. Even from the doctor. My mother was worried sick," Jermaine continued. Joe Jackson's talent managing abilities were a critical factor in the success of the hit group the Jackson 5, which eventually led to highly successful solo careers for many of that group's members, most notably for Michael Jackson and Janet...
Update: Janet Jackson became the first black woman to receive Billboard’s ICON award on Sunday. During her acceptance speech, the legendary singer showcased her allegiance with the #MeToo movement."I believe that, for all of our challenges, we live at a glorious moment in history," Jackson said. "At long last, women have made it clear that we will no longer be controlled, manipulated, or abused... I stand with those women and with those men equally outraged by discrimination, who support us in heart and mind.”Original story: May 20 marked an exciting day for fans of Janet Jackson. The pop singer not only gave her first television performance in nine years at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, she also became the first black woman to receive the Billboard ICON Award.The award, which was established in 2011, recognizes artists who make a cultural impact within and outside of the music industry. Jackson will join the ranks of Jennifer Lopez, Cher, Céline Dion, Prince, Stevie Wonder and Neil Diamond who are all past honorees of the award. Although no stranger to the stage, the "Control" singer hit a televised stage for the first time in almost a decade and boy, did she slay. In April, the 51-year-old announced she was holding open auditions to join her J-Tribe dance team. That same month, the mother of one also declared she was extending her State of the World tour, adding summer dates across the U.S. In addition, she is set to headline the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans in July.According to Billboard's official press release, the award marks Jackson's 11th Billboard award honor. She has been nominated 18 times and taken home 10 trophies. The "So Excited" songstress has also earned more than 100 No. 1s on Billboard’s charts in her career, spent more than 300 weeks at No. 1 and is one of only four artists to have a No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 in each of the last four decades. She's also the first woman to debut in the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 with “Scream,” her duet with brother Michael. Lastly, she is the only artist to have seven tracks from the same album land the top five spots on the Hot 100 hits with Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814.Obviously, this award is well-deserved. Some would even call it...
It is safe to say that if Twitter was around in 2004, Justin Timberlake's career would have vanished from the face of the earth. Social media's most powerful entity, Black Twitter, has gathered like Voltron to take over Super Bowl Sunday in the name of legendary pop icon Janet Jackson. When Timberlake was announced as the halftime performer for Super Bowl LII, the announcement brought back bad memories stemming from the "nipplegate" fiasco during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show in February 2004. The wardrobe malfunction scandal crippled Jackson's career for a few years even though she was the victim of national and international embarrassment.For many, there is no forgiveness for the way Timberlake handled the situation. And the timing seems perfect for black folks and fans of Janet to skip the big game altogether. It all started with a tweet from filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry calling for a Janet appreciation day on Friday. We should do a #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay this Sunday. pic.twitter.com/ab9fMexgn6— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) February 2, 2018Oscars So White creator April Reign also help spread the word by announcing the start time on Twitter. But surprise, surprise, fans were celebrating all weekend in anticipation for Sunday. Just a reminder that #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay begins at noon EST. Thanks for the idea, @MatthewACherry! https://t.co/3JMBy9SWND— April (@ReignOfApril) February 4, 2018When you just wake up and seeing #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay already trending pic.twitter.com/0FbwEdunqc— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) February 4, 2018And just like that #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay has become one of the top trends in the U.S. Here are a few tweets gaining steam as the day officially starts: Janet Jackson really made one of the greatest videos of all time by herself dancing in an abandoned warehouse. "Pleasure Principle." Almost 31 years later and your faves still can't keep up. #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay
pic.twitter.com/hGqeRh3GCj— Donald Trump is a RACIST & my name is Kevin Allred (@KevinAllred) February 3, 2018#JanetJacksonAppreciationDay "With music by our side to break the color lines." Rhythm Nation. https://t.co/4gJtb3YV1r— AprilDRyan (@AprilDRyan) February 4, 2018#JanetJacksonAppreciationDay on Sunday & 32nd Anniversary of The Control Album 💓💓 pic.twitter.com/9ukzDhfXIj— I WILL NOT. (@janetjacksonfam) February 3, 2018Janet Jackson - Rhythm Nation (1989) #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay
pic.twitter.com/6VmzkEd6Xf— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) February 4, 2018I'm not watching the #Superbowl; I'm listening to #JanetJackson's latest album on repeat and paying proper homage: https://t.co/alyRaFybWS
#JanetJacksonAppreciationDay
pic.twitter.com/mkFVCffqje— #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay (@SonofBaldwin) February 4, 2018I love how @kerrywashington subtly did her own #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay by featuring only Janet Jackson songs on her epsd of #SCANDAL right before the SB pic.twitter.com/7w8ZJrkDve— Blue Gangsta♎ (@ferronze23) February 4, 2018#JanetJacksonAppreciationDay Janet snatching edges in the 70s singing with brother Randy on The Carol Burnett Show. pic.twitter.com/8y6IPobrWj— 🤷🏾♀️ Ree Ree 💫 (@AwkwardlyReeRee) February 4, 2018Even though Janet will not be part of this year's halftime, her fans are shutting it down and celebrating her illustrious career at the same...
Speculation about singer Justin Timberlake's halftime show has been just as high as anticipation for Super Bowl LII, featuring the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles.News circulating over a Prince hologram tribute has certainly taken more of the spotlight off the game and onto Timberlake. When Timberlake was announced as the halftime performer, the announcement reopened wounds made from the "nipplegate" fiasco during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show in February 2004.In a recent New York Post profile, the wounds were still fresh for some members of the Jackson family, in particular, Joe Jackson. He was hoping that his daughter R&B/Pop icon Janet Jackson would make an appearance at this year's big show. “If he’s such a gentleman, he’d make sure Janet is there,” Joe said. Another unidentified family member told the New York Post that nipplegate has had a damaging and lasting effect on Janet's career even though she was the victim. “Justin’s solo career took off after that and Janet was blackballed,” said the family member. “He says they are good, but let’s see him prove it and bring her out.”It turns out there were no plans for a Janet, JT reunion. She dispelled all rumors in a straightforward Instagram post on Saturday. A post shared by Janet Jackson (@janetjackson) on Feb 3, 2018 at 4:31pm PSTHowever, Timberlake is still not in the clear.JT’s plan to honor the late pop icon Prince in his hometown of Minneapolis by projecting a hologram during the performance was met with intense criticism from fans and members of Prince's own family. Prince couldn’t STAND Justin. He openly despised him https://t.co/2oMjm5C2ap— ✨Nandi: Chief Skin-novation Officer ✨ (@Glamorfonic) February 3, 2018Justin Timberlake is supposedly bringing a hologram Prince to his Super Bowl performance. Bruh, I hope that lawsuit is swift and merciless. Prince didn't even like his ass...— LeValkyrie (@LeValkyrie) February 3, 2018That Prince hologram is such a violation in itself, but for his image to be associated with the mediocrity that is Justin Timberlake, like some side show for his halftime performance. I am so disgusted— DarkSkintDostoyevsky (@daniecal) February 3, 2018Prince’s brother, Omarr Baker, tweeted his displeasure with a simple symbol suggesting that the hologram won't happen. 🚫 #PrinceHologram— PRNFamily® (@PRNFamily) February 3, 2018The account managed by Baker also indicated that the Prince family estate did not approve JT's tribute and that the hologram element of the performance wouldn't happen as previously planned.Both— PRNFamily® (@PRNFamily) February 3, 2018We all have to wait and see if Timberlake continues despite fans'...
Sunday, Justin Timberlake tweeted the news that he would be doing the 2018 Super Bowl halftime show. While that's fine and dandy, the news made us all kind of confused. I DO have the time. Half the time...#PepsiHalftime
#SBLII
@Pepsi
@NFL
@JimmyFallon
@FallonTonight
pic.twitter.com/4Z4Dz29l3X— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) October 23, 2017As if anyone can forget the infamous nip slip from the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show that ultimately left Janet Jackson banned from the Super Bowl stage. Now, as Timberlake prepares to take the stage again, many people are posing the question what about Janet? Black Twitter has even made #JusticeforJanet a trending topic as well as took to JT's mentions to voice concern. And I DO have time to call you out. If @JanetJackson is STILL banned by the @NFL, your 'privileged' ass should be as well!— Elgin Charles (@ElginCharles) October 23, 2017Apologize to @JanetJackson and then we’ll talk.— Harry A. Lewis (@halewis_) October 23, 2017Wonder when we'll see the next Janet Jackson Superbowl Halftime show?!— Dr. Julie Gurner (@drgurner) October 23, 2017This is misogyny and white privileged at work ladies. I’m not worried cause majority isn’t here for it #JusticeForJanet— ً (@LuxxSOCIAL) October 23, 2017Until Janet is given an apology by the NFL and Justin Timberlake I won't be watching the Super Bowl Halftime show #JusticeForJanet
pic.twitter.com/lmW1huGwya— Andre 🐝 (@hivelite) October 23, 2017Did Justin even realize by merely accepting to perform, the name Janet Jackson will be coming up A LOT #apologize
#JusticeforJanet
pic.twitter.com/JxUpniy7GB— MPH (@fastmake11) October 23, 2017“Justin needs to bring Janet out” NO! The NFL had her banned for over a decade & they’d lift it just to make HIM look good? #JusticeForJanet
pic.twitter.com/0ocw87LZQC— ً (@LuxxSOCIAL) October 23, 2017The NFL may have just tied their hands for real. With many people irritated with the NFL as it is, many people are threatening not to even watch the halftime show. Janet Jackson is an icon. You can't play with a powerful black woman's career and think we'll let it slide. Not today, not...
As everyone and their mama knows, Cardi B is living her best life after debuting her highly successful single "Bodak Yellow." It is everywhere! Yes ... everywhere! Well, it's Janet Jackson's turn! (That's Ms. Jackson, if you're nasty!) During a performance on her State of the World tour, Jackson hit us with an epic dance break to Cardi B's hit. Consider our wigs snatched, but willingly so. This video is the epitome of joy. It's the principle of pleasure. Of course, Black Twitter reacted with "life given" moods:Janet Jackson dancing to Bodak Yellow during her tour is iconic.— Gogo Yubari🌹 (@XavierLeon__) September 15, 2017Janet Jackson just played a lil' bit of Bodak Yellow 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾— BRiTTANY (@BRITINAT0R) September 15, 2017Cardi got THE Janet Jackson playing Bodak Yellow at her shows ?!?!!!! WOW. Enjoy mediocrity, haters.— Ms. Henry (@mshenrybaby) September 15, 2017Unsurprisingly, Janet's dance moves have been hitting the viral waves. Just last week, fans posted a video of her incorporating the milly rock to her dance number:QUEEN.It speaks volumes to your status as an icon when you can not only keep your career thriving for decades, but can also flawlessly blend in with the current culture.And you know Cardi B has to be super honored that this legend was creatively inspired by something she created. Janet DID...
Entertainers Janet Jackson, Beyoncé and Kevin Hart have already made a real impact on the lives of Hurricane Harvey survivors with their most recent acts of charity.On Friday, Sept. 8, Jackson met with evacuees at the George R. Brown Convention Center with Mayor Sylvester Turner at her side. That was the first stop on her Houston visit, which included a visit with more evacuees at NRG Stadium with her brother, Randy Jackson.In wake of the devastation stemming from Hurricane Harvey, extreme flooding displaced thousands of Houston residents forcing many to leave their homes and belongings behind.The 51-year-old singer kicked off her 56-city State of the World Tour that included Houston as her second stop. Despite the floodwaters, Jackson will perform as scheduled at Houston's Toyota Center Saturday night and will donate proceeds to local flood relief efforts.
As we visit shelters here in Houston, our thoughts are with those affected by the e.quake in Mexico, H.Irma & storms in S. Asia & Africa.A post shared by Janet Jackson (@janetjackson) on Sep 8, 2017 at 5:33pm PDTSimilarly, Beyoncé met survivors at St. John’s Church in Houston along with her daughter Blue Ivy, mother Tina Knowles, and friend and former Destiny's Child member Michelle Williams by her side. She gave evacuees words of encouragement after Tina and Michelle served lunch to nearly 400 people earlier that day, according to US Magazine.Beyoncé speaking to the #Harvey survivors in Houston today. 💙 #BeyGOOD
pic.twitter.com/Vkjf2N4RZW— BEYONCÉ LEGION (@Bey_Legion) September 8, 2017"I just wanna say that I’m home. This church is my home. I was maybe nine or 10 years old the first time I sat there where my daughter is sitting,” the superstar told the crowd. "I sang my first solo here and I just wanna thank you for lifting my family up, for praying for me and for being such an incredible example of what light and love is. This today is a celebration of survival.“Y'all are my family. Houston is my home. I thank God that you're safe, your children are safe. I think what really matters is your health and your children and your family,” she continued. “I just wanna say I love you. I’ve been blessed so that I can bless other people and I ask of God to continue to do that for other people."Other celebrities were also very active giving back on Friday.For instance, comedian Kevin Hart – keeping to his pledge – teamed up with incoming Houston Rockets player Chris Paul to pass out donations at a local food bank in the ravaged city. Hart documented his efforts on his personal Instagram with videos and a few photos: In Houston making sure that the money that was raised is being used properly... #LiveLoveLaughA post shared by Kevin Hart (@kevinhart4real) on Sep 8, 2017 at 1:26pm...
In lieu of the recent release of Janet Jackson and her husband separating, the internet has gone ablaze with speculation, conversation, and memes about the status of Janet and her relationship. Janet recently gave birth to her first child, Eissa Al Mana, and is now redirecting her love to the child. While the story is undoubtedly sensational, the rumors that surround it are quite unrealistic and even disrespectful to the legacy of Janet Jackson. Let's do some fact-checking, and reminding, for those who are out of touch with the illustrious career and life of Janet Jackson. First, the biggest talking point of the separation between Wissam Al Mana and Janet is a rumored prenuptial agreement that would pay Janet 500 million dollars if the relationship ended after 5 years. Now the internet is in a frenzy stating Janet has left after 5 years and 2 months. This has created a web-wide commentary stating Janet is a "gold-digger" and "scammer". What's the truth though?Currently, there is no public record of Janet Jackson and her still current husband, Wissam's prenup. All of the reports about the prenup are gossip and it has never been disclosed. Not to mention Janet, nor Wissam, have filed for divorce. According to sources, Janet and Wissam are currently separating but no divorce has been filed. Essentially, with no divorce enacted the prenup is irrelevant. For the sake of logic, with Janet's husband being a billionaire over various enterprises that include family businesses, doesn't it make sense that he is a smart enough businessman to not agree to give away half of his family's fortune to a failed marriage? Wouldn't he be well versed in business arrangements, lawyer negotiations, and securing assets? Agreeing to this would be a terrible business move. Now that we've cleared that up let's take a quick look at who Janet Jackson is and why respect is all she deserves.Janet Jackson scored the largest recording contract in music history in the 90s beating out her brother Michael Jackson and Madonna, setting a precedent for artists to follow. She has over 160 million albums sold while owning all the rights and publishing to her music. Janet went into business with Magic Johnson and owned a bank...literally. One, seriously just one, of Janet's albums "Janet" built up former Virgin Records owner Richard Branson's island. He stated on MTV Cribs, “As Janet Jackson had a hit I would build a little piece of the island" Janet owns her own record label and her last album in 2015 "Unbreakable" was number 1, making her 1 of 3 to have a number one album in each of the last 4 decades (reviving major music distributor BMG in the process). Janet's debut tour, Rhythm Nation, sold out 3 stadium dates in Japan in 7 minutes during a time where there was no internet nor ability to buy tickets over the phone. That means people physically had to buy their ticket, they slept outside; and she sold out a stadium before anyone had ever seen her tear up a stage. With all that said, we have not taken into account her pop cultural influence from the braids to the choreography, her feminism, her black empowerment, her 7 top 5 singles from one album-Rhythm Nation, her luxury diamond line that sells pieces for over 2 million dollars, her college scholarship fund with the UNCF putting black children through college, her philanthropy for HIV/AIDS research, her UNICEF ambassadorship assisting children in the middle east, or her down right command of a stage. The list goes on. Janet is the blueprint for the top favs of today.Janet Jackson is one of our Black international icons and if she's going to be discussed it must be in the highest light. She has paved the way for countless performers behind her and welcomed them in with open arms. Janet always keeps a low and respectable profile, not seeking attention or the public eye. She has devoted so much of herself to push the industry forward. Before the internet misappropriates her legacy, recognize her for the legendary standard she...