October 2024

GRAMMY Museum Presents Luther Vandross: Artistry And Elegance

Sylvester October 29, 2024

The GRAMMY Museum^®announces new exhibit celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Luther Vandross, an eight-time GRAMMY^® winner, revered songwriter, arranger, producer, performer, and one of the most gifted vocalists in music history. Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance offers an intimate glimpse into Vandross’ creative process and showcases his ornate stage wardrobe, exclusive performance footage from his popular tours, and a never-before-heard recording of him in the studio. 

The exhibit opens on Weds, Nov. 20 with an exclusive screening of the feature documentary from award-winning director Dawn Porter Luther: Never Too Much, produced by Raindog Films and Foxxhole Productions for Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing, in association with Trilogy Films. The special preview will take place in the Museum’s Clive Davis Theater before the documentary premieres on CNN, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and Max in 2025. Attendees will enjoy a panel discussion with the filmmakers and a sneak peek of the exhibit. Tickets will be available to purchase starting Thursday, October 31. The exhibit will be on display through June 15, 2025.

In alignment with the film and exhibition release, Luther Vandross’ previously unreleased soulful rendition of the Beatles’ “Michelle” is available now. The song will be one of many included on Never Too Much: Greatest Hits, a new compilation of music by Vandross out December 13.

Luther Vandross first captured the spotlight in the 1970s as a sought-after backup singer, collaborating with luminaries such as David Bowie, Roberta Flack, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Bette Midler, and Carly Simon. As a solo artist, he became renowned for his relatable lyrics about love and mesmerizing live performances, characterized by dynamic bands, elaborate stage designs, and striking custom costumes worn by his background singers. Vandross achieved remarkable success, charting a Top 10 R&B hit every year from 1981 to 1994 and releasing 11 consecutive platinum records, with over 40 million albums sold worldwide.

“The Luther Vandross Estate is excited to be sharing Luther’s musical legacy with the GRAMMY Museum and its visitors through this upcoming exhibit. It is a special window into all of Luther Vandross’ talents – singer, of course; but also music producer, live performer, stage craft master, wardrobe designer, and songwriter. Showcasing all of these amazing elements of Luther the artist via the long-cherished possessions of his personal archives is a treat for die-hard fans and new ones,” says The Luther Vandross Estate.

“It’s incredible that with all the gifted singers out there, Luther was able to carve out his own totally unique space. No one could replicate Luther’s sound, his songwriting genius, or even his covers of other people’s songs.  Luther was a complete and utter perfectionist with a very specific vision of how he wanted things to be.  His shows were theatrical masterpieces, and Luther was involved in every detail of their production: his vocals, his background singers’ harmonies, their choreography and even his background singers’ gowns! The gown beading had to be exquisite and authentic. The furs had to be real. I would say, ‘Luther, no one’s gonna know if the furs are real!!’ To which he would reply: ‘ I will know!’ That was part of the magic of Luther, his unyielding commitment to excellence. It was truly an honor to have worked with my friend and big brother, Luther Vandross,” says Marcus Miller.

“Luther Vandross is a cherished icon who defined the smooth, jazz-inspired era of R&B and whose timeless love songs have graced countless weddings, graduations, and family reunions for the past several decades,” says Kelsey Goelz, Curator at the GRAMMY Museum. “The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to provide fans a close look into his incredible achievements in the studio and onstage.”

Exhibit highlights:

1. Hand-beaded suits and jumpsuits worn by Vandross and his background singers during the Power of Love Tour in 1991 
2. An emerald green hand-beaded suit and two matching gowns worn by Vandross’ background singers, alongside Vandross’ black tuxedo from his 1993-94 performances
3. Original fashion sketches of Vandross’ tour wardrobe 
4. Handwritten lyrics and studio notes for “I Can Make It Better,” featuring an exclusive recording of Vandross crafting the song
5. Handwritten lyrics and original sheet music for several of Vandross’ hits, including “Think About You” and “Never Too Much” 
6. Six of Vandross’ eight GRAMMY Awards^® 

For tickets and more information on the exhibit, please visitwww.grammymuseum.org

Netflix’s SIMONE BILES RISING Part 2 World Premiere

Sylvester October 24, 2024

Netflix celebrated the premiere of Simone Biles Rising Part 2 with Simone Biles and her family and friends at the legendary Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, CA.

Additional notable attendees included Nastia Liukin, Adam Rippon, Lecrae, Alex Aiono, Hannah Kosh and more. Guests from Friends of the Children and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy were also in attendance.

Immediately following the screening, Simone Biles and director Katie Walsh took part in a Q&A moderated by Scott Evans.

About Simone Biles Rising Part 2: 

Part 2 of Simone Biles Rising follows along as she competes at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials and officially qualifies for the U.S. Olympic Team to her incredible performances in Paris, all the while sharing personal thoughts and moments of her incredible journey to become the most decorated gymnast in history. The episodes provide intimate access to Biles as she captures three gold medals and one silver medal at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Daymond John Announces 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day

Sylvester October 24, 2024

A Celebration of Black Excellence and Opportunity in Atlanta 

Daymond John, entrepreneur and investor, proudly announces the 5th AnnualBlack Entrepreneurs Day (BED), taking place on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the iconic Fox Theater in Atlanta—the historic birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement and a thriving hub of Black culture and excellence. This year, BED will be free for all guests to attend and include branded activations as well as light bites and drinks for sale – promising an unforgettable experience that aims to entertain, inform, and inspire.

Founded in 2020 in response to the community’s challenges following the tragic events surrounding George Floyd, Black Entrepreneurs Day was created to shift the narrative from destruction to empowerment. With a commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs, the event aims to educate and inspire through conversation with iconic Black leaders and celebrity friends, includes superstar musical performances, and will provide essential financial support through its NAACP Powershift Grant program.

Tickets for Black Entrepreneurs Day 2024 are free and available for registration at BlackEntrepreneursDay.comnow. 

A Star-Studded Experience

The event will feature engaging conversations with an inspiring lineup of guests, including Grammy-winning artist and philanthropist Kelly Rowland; the iconic entertainer Flavor Flav, known for his unique blend of humor and cultural influence; influential media personality Charlamagne tha God, celebrated for his thought-provoking discussions on social issues; Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles (presented by J.P. Morgan Wealth Management), a role model of tenacity and excellence; and financial educators Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings from Earn Your Leisure, passionate advocates for financial literacy. Additionally, attendees will be treated to a live performance by Atlanta’s own multi-platinum rapper 2Chainz presented by Raising Cane’s. Known for his dynamic style and impactful lyrics, 2 Chainz will energize the audience and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship. Attendees will also enjoy the Entrepreneur Plaza pre-event, showcasing brand activations and pop-ups from sponsors. Past Black Entrepreneurs Day guests include Whoopi Goldberg, Spike Lee, Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Hart, Tyra Banks, Michael Strahan, and many more.

NAACP Small Business Powershift Grant Program 

From October 24 to November 1, entrepreneurs can apply for the Powershift Grant HERE. By the conclusion of BED 2024, the initiative will have awarded over $1 million in grants to more than 40 Black-owned businesses, fostering economic growth and innovation in the community. This year, partners JPMorganChase, Hilton, T-Mobile for Business and Constant Contact will contribute a total of $100,000 in grants, with each grant amounting to $25,000.

“Atlanta isn’t just a city; it’s the heartbeat of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience. When we considered moving Black Entrepreneurs Day from the Apollo, there was no question in our minds—Atlanta is the ‘Black Mecca.’ It’s where innovation meets history, and it embodies the spirit of empowerment that we celebrate at this event. We are excited to honor that legacy and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs right here in the heart of the community,” said Daymond John. He continued, “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support of Black businesses; they are truly walking the walk in a time when commitment to diversity and inclusion is more important than ever.”

Key Partners

JPMorganChase, a proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day since its inception five years ago, will return as a prominent sponsor of this year’s event. The firm offers financial tools and resources to help business owners start, run and grow their businesses while working towards their personal financial goals. This year, JPMorganChase and J.P. Morgan Wealth Management will take center stage, powering conversations led by Daymond John with Olympian Jordan Chiles and Lanän Clark, Regional Director at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management. To learn more about JPMorganChase’s offerings, visitblackentrepreneursday.com/jpmorganchase.

A returning partner and continuous supporter of entrepreneurs, Hilton will introduce a new discussion focused on the ways in which the company is dedicated to meeting entrepreneurs where they are, providing them with valuable networking opportunities, travel tools, as well as new business opportunities. As the home away from home for millions of entrepreneurs every day, Hilton takes seriously its commitment to be a powerful engine of opportunity. To learn more about Hilton’s support and travel tools, visitHilton for Business. 

At Black Entrepreneurs Day, Constant Contact will showcase how it helps entrepreneurs succeed by providing them with the marketing tools and guidance they need to build communities, engage with their customers, and generate sales. Joining Daymond John on stage for a roundtable conversation will be Constant Contact brand ambassadors Tamika Catchings, a four-time Olympic Gold Medalist, WNBA Hall of Famer, and owner of Tea’s Me Cafe, and Scharrell Jackson, international keynote speaker, executive coach, author, and Founder of Leadership in Heels. In addition, Constant Contact will offer professional headshots at the Fox Theater, helping entrepreneurs elevate their personal branding. To learn more about Constant Contact, visit ConstantContact.com.

As a proud returning partner of Black Entrepreneurs Day, T-Mobile for Business is excited to join Daymond John for the fifth year of inspiration, education, and celebration. This year’s partnership will spotlight the T-Mobile for Business community alongside Daymond, showcasing the journey of entrepreneurship while harnessing the intersection of mobile connectivity and emerging technology to grow and scale business. To learn more about how entrepreneurs can take their business further, visit: https://www.t-mobile.com/business/small-midsize-business

America’s Navy is a new, proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day, showcasing the journeys of Sailors who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship. The Navy is the most highly skilled, technologically advanced military force in the world, and attendees will learn about the training and resources available in the Navy that help prepare service members to start and grow their own businesses. Through inspiring stories and interactive exhibits, the Navy aims to highlight the breadth and depth of skills and discipline Sailors bring to the entrepreneurial landscape.

As part of the festivities at Black Entrepreneurs Day, Raising Cane’s—a brand deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurial efforts across Communities—is proud to present a live performance by acclaimed rapper 2 Chainz. This partnership underscores Raising Cane’s dedication to fostering small business growth and entrepreneurship, recognizing their vital role in driving economic development and strengthening local Communities. Through initiatives like these, Raising Cane’s continues to champion opportunities that inspire and uplift future business leaders.

Lowe’s, a longtime supporter of entrepreneurship, workforce development, community partnerships, and Black Entrepreneurs Day, will host a conversation between Daymond John and Quonta “Que” Vance, Lowe’s Executive Vice President, Pro and Home Services.

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is a proud sponsor of Black Entrepreneurs Day for the fourth year in a row, helping entrepreneurs and organizations of any size reimagine their business for the world of AI. This year, Daymond John will host AI for All, a conversation presented by Salesforce that will showcase how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students are gaining AI skills and certifications through Salesforce’s free learning platform,Trailhead. Check out their AI for All Announcement to learn more.

Join Us – FREE Tickets! 

Don’t miss this landmark event celebrating Black excellence and entrepreneurship. Register for in-person tickets and apply for the NAACP PowerShift Grant at blackentrepreneursday.com. 

Streaming and Access 

Black Entrepreneurs Day will be live-streamed for free on the Black Entrepreneurs Day website and all of Daymond John’s social media platforms. Budding businesspersons and existing entrepreneurs around the globe can stream the event on BlackEntrepreneursDay.com and connect on social channels. 

Nene Leakes, Pastor Jamal Bryant, Peter Thomas, Martell Holt, Ryan Cameron, and more celebrate the 7th Annual Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic

Sylvester October 23, 2024

The Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic celebrated its seventh and final year on October 11-13, bringing together Atlanta’s elite for a weekend of fashion, polo, boxing, and entertainment.

Founded by renowned menswear designer Miguel Wilson, this lavish event is generously sponsored by Bentley Atlanta and Fulton County Arts & Culture. It also serves as a fundraiser for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation. 

“Thank you to everyone who played a part in making the 7th Annual Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic Weekend a huge success,” Wilson said. “We had a seven-year run and it’s been full of good times and great memories. So many friendships and relationships were greeted here. I’m forever grateful to you all.”

To commemorate the final year of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, Wilson introduced a Celebrity Fight Night, featuring five rounds of boxing alongside a seated dinner, on Friday, October 11, at the Renaissance Hotel. Two-time Emmy Award-winning radio personality Ryan Cameron served as the announcer for the boxing event. 

Wilson also expanded Sunday’s polo classic to include the Junior Polo Classic, where young athletes from Atlanta’s B.E.S.T. Academy and the Congressional Polo Club competed before the main polo match.

Continuing the tradition of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, Wilson hosted his Cocktails & Cigars Under the Stars event on Saturday, October 12, at the Renaissance Hotel. The grand finale, the signature Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, was on Sunday, October 13, at Bouckaert Farms in Chattahoochee Hills.

The signature Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic offered attendees a comfortable experience, with multiple event tents surrounding the polo field. Guests enjoyed delicious food and refreshments while watching the junior and adult polo matches, with FOX 5 DC anchor Guy Lambert was the emcee for the matches. The event culminated in a spectacular fashion show.

The guest list featured a constellation of notable figures, including Nene Leakes (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Peter Thomas (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta) Mike Jackson (HGTV’s Married To Real Estate), Pastor Jamal Bryant (New Birth Missionary Baptist Church), Frank Ski (nationally syndicated radio host), Ryan Cameron (radio host), actor Clifton Powell, Q Parker (R&B Artist), RL (singer/of NEXT), Martell Holt (OWN’s Love & Marriage Huntsville), Ralph Pittman (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Dr. Gregory and Lateasha Lunceford (Bravo’s Married to Medicine), Chris and Neal Fletcher (OWN’s Love & Marriage Huntsville), DJ Scream,  singer Jhonni blaze (Love & Hip Hop: New York and Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta), Rod Gardner (former NFL player) and Leticia Garnder (social media influencer), Ovie Mughelli (former NFL Player), Red Grant (comedian/actor), and Lil Zane (rapper). 

The primary purpose of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic was to raise funds for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, a non-profit organization established by Miguel Wilson in 2018. The foundation aims to provide underprivileged youth with opportunities to participate in equestrian sports.

Since its inception, the Ride to the Olympics Foundation’s most significant achievement has been the establishment of the Morehouse Polo Club, the first-ever polo team at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Wilson, a co-founder of the Morehouse Polo Club, was recognized for his contributions by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and the State of Georgia.

“Having two Black polo teams play here was my goal and we did that. My new goal is to create a youth polo team in DC with the Congressional Polo Club, while also keeping the teams going at Atlanta’s B.E.S.T. Academy and in Prince George’s County,” Wilson said. 

Sponsors for this year’s Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic include Remy Martin, Titos Vodkah, Rap Snaps, Mercedes Benz of Buckhead, A. Wash and Associates, Atlanta Fibroid Center, St. Royale Vodka, and Granville Group.

Check out photos from Kingsmen Media Group.

DEVALE ELLIS & CHRISTINA MILIAN IN NEW NETFLIX HOLIDAY ROM-COM MEET ME NEXT CHRISTMAS

Sylvester October 23, 2024

Today, Netflix released the trailer for new holiday rom-com ‘Meet Me Next Christmas,’ executive produced and starring our client, former NFL player, actor (Sistas/Zatima), and New York Times’ best-selling author, Devale Ellis and actress Christina Milian.

 In pursuit of a fairytale romance with the man of her dreams, Layla must race through New York City to get her hands on the hottest ticket in town: the sold out Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert.

BREAD & ROSES, Powerful Cannes Doc from Producers Jennifer Lawrence & Malala

Sylvester October 17, 2024

Apple original Films’ “Bread & Roses” offers a powerful window into the seismic impact on women’s rights and livelihoods after Kabul fell to the Taliban in 2021. The film follows three women, in real time, as they fight to recover their autonomy. Director Sahra Mani captures the spirit and resilience of Afghan women through a raw depiction of their harrowing plight.

“Bread & Roses,” an Eyan Foundation presentation in association with Extracurricular, is produced by Jennifer Lawrence and Justine Ciarrocchi with Sahra Mani, alongside executive producers Malala Yousafzai and Farhad Khosravi. Mani directs the film.

Director:  Sahra Mani         

Producers:  Jennifer Lawrence and Justine Ciarrocchi

LeBron and Savannah James Break Silence on Son Bronny’s Cardiac Arrest

Sylvester October 10, 2024

In the new Netflix docuseries “Starting 5,” the couple opened up about how the health scare deeply impacted their family, sharing their emotional journey as Bronny, now 20, continues his recovery. “I think at the end of the day, it was just about us supporting each other and just being super grateful for the outcome,” Savannah said in the premiere episode.

The show also captured LeBron and his mother, Gloria James, visiting the University of Southern California, where they met Erin, a member of the medical team who immediately performed CPR on Bronny when collapsed during basketball practice. “Shout out to the man above and to the whole coaching staff, training staff, members of that program,” LeBron said before calling Erin a “lifesaver, literally.”

(source: BET)