2024

Dorinda Clark-Cole To Be Honored at BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Awards

Sylvester February 22, 2024

THE LEGENDARY DORINDA CLARK-COLE OF THE CLARK SISTERS TO BE HONORED AS A TRAILBLAZER OF GOSPEL
AT THE 2024 BMI TRAILBLAZERS OF GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS

JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS TO RECEIVE THE CHAMPION AWARD

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) will pay tribute to the songwriters and publishers behind the best in Gospel at the 2024 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, held at Flourish Atlanta on Thursday, March 28^th. Gospel legend and world-renowned evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole will receive the evening’s highest honor as a Trailblazer of Gospel in recognition of her illustrious career spanning over 50 years and incomparable influence on the genre and beyond. Jonathan McReynolds will receive the BMI Champion Award for his exceptional artistry and impact on Gospel music, marking the first time this accolade has been presented at this ceremony. The private event will be hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

“We’re thrilled to be recognizing our BMI family of songwriters and publishers for their contributionsto Gospel music and the Gospel community,” said Brewton. “When I think of a trailblazer in Gospel music, Dorinda stands out as a pioneering figure. The Clark Sisters are among the legends of Gospel, and Dorinda’s distinctive jazzy sound lends a unique brilliance to the group. I’m so proud to be honoring her work and highlighting the impact she’s made on the genre and community through her music and evangelism. We’re also paying tribute to one of the most incredible voices in Gospel, Jonathan McReynolds, whose music is often referred to as ‘life’ songs, speaking to the hearts of all. We’re looking forward to celebrating all of our honorees and bringing the community together for an afternoon of faith, fellowship and incredible music.”

Throughout the ceremony, BMI will also recognize the songwriters, producers and music publishers of the past year’s 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States. The BMI Gospel Song,Songwriter and Publisher of the Year will also be named during the inspirational event.

Dorinda Clark-Cole, known as the “Rose of Gospel Music,” is a multiple award-winning singer/songwriter, a talk show host, and world-renowned evangelist. Born and raised in Detroit, Clark–Cole is the daughter of pioneering choral director Mattie Moss Clark, and is best known as a member of The Clark Sisters, one of the most successful and groundbreaking Gospel music groups of all time. Some of the iconic group’s crossover hits include “Blessed & Highly Favored,” “Hallelujah,” “He Gave Me Nothing to Lose,” “Jesus Is A Love Song,” “Pure Gold,” “Expect A Miracle,” and “You Brought The Sunshine,” to name a few. Throughout Clark-Cole’s remarkable career she’s received many accolades as part of The Clark Sisters and as a solo artist, including two GRAMMY Awards, two Dove Awards, three BMI Awards, 13 Stellar Gospel Music Awards and a Lady of Soul Award. The sisters also received a Lifetime Achievement honor at this year’s GRAMMY Awards, which followed a James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award at the Stellar Awards in 2020 and induction to the Black Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2022. In 2020, The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel biopic, produced by Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah, premiered on Lifetime to over 20 million viewers.

Mastering a balance between music and evangelism, Clark-Cole currently serves as International Elect Lady of the International Department of Evangelism (IDOE) to the Church of God in Christ and is the church administrator for Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ.

Born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, Jonathan McReynolds cultivated his love for music at an early age in church and continues to share his music, heart, and journey as he travels the world professing the Gospel through his inspiring song ministry. The award-winning singer/songwriter has released six full-length albums including his 2018 release Make Room, which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel charts, winning eight Stellar Awards and earning two GRAMMY nominations. In 2020, he released, People, which garnered his first GRAMMY for Best Gospel Performance/Song for his hit single “Moving On.” His latest release My Truth (2023) spent several weeks on Billboard’s Gospel charts and earned McReynolds a Dove Award for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year for his single “Your World” and a GRAMMY nomination for Best Gospel Album. McReynolds has also received four BMI Awards and was named BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year in 2023.

THE BLACK GIRLS ROCK! AWARDS RETURNS TO TELEVISION ON LIFETIME AS NEW NETWORK HOME

Sylvester February 22, 2024

THE CITY OF ATLANTA TO HOST PRESTIGIOUS BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® AWARDS IN LANDMARK CELEBRATION

 In a momentous announcement, Atlanta, Georgia, has been declared the host city for the 2024 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards, marking a significant milestone as the city becomes the new epicenter for the world-renowned celebration. Over the years, BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® has honored the outstanding contributions of trailblazers, entertainers, icons, community activists, pioneers, business moguls, thought leaders, and rising stars. The eagerly awaited BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards are scheduled to be recorded live on June 27, 2024, at the iconic Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA. This event is set to be the highlight of a broader, city-wide BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Experience, which will feature an array of events and celebrations throughout Atlanta, including The BGR! Expo, and the annual BGR! Film Festival, The BLACK CLOUD Tech Summit and the BGR!FEST concert series, further cementing the city’s status as a cultural hub and celebrating the achievements and spirit of Black women globally.

Beverly Bond, the visionary founder of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, made the announcement on Friday, February 16, at City Hall along with several of Atlanta’s high-profile power broker women executives. 

“Atlanta’s vibrant cultural heritage provides the ideal backdrop for our celebration,” Beverly Bond remarked. “Establishing the BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards and the BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® EXPERIENCE in Atlanta represents a critical juncture for our brand. Under Mayor Andre Dickens’ ingenious  leadership, characterized by his dedication to community, cultural enrichment, innovation, and equity, we are laying a robust groundwork for this trailblazing collaboration.” Bond further stated, “Together, we aim to establish the BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® EXPERIENCE as a vital cultural milestone in Atlanta and a strategic partnership that propels both BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® and the city towards a future rich with cultural impact and mutual growth.” 

Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his excitement about Atlanta hosting the BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards, underlining the significant cultural and societal contributions expected from this partnership.

“We are thrilled that Atlanta has been selected as the host city for the 2024 BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards. BLACK GIRLS ROCK! is a world-renowned celebration of the incredible resilience, strength, and accomplishments of Black women and girls,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. “We know that Atlanta is the city that influences everything and the perfect place to host such a historic and influential event. Atlanta has been nationally recognized for our commitment to championing diversity, gender equality, and inclusion efforts and we believe in the power and promise of women and girls.”Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his excitement about Atlanta hosting the BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards, underlining the significant cultural and societal contributions expected from this partnership. 

As Atlanta gears up to welcome BLACK GIRLS ROCK!®, this partnership signals the start of a long-term legacy of cultural celebration and empowerment. It amplifies the event’s mission-driven focus, offering not just a celebration but a source of inspiration for future generations.

Shirley coming to Netflix

Sylvester February 20, 2024

Shirley Chisholm makes a trailblazing run for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination after becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress.

“Do I look like every other politician?” Regina King‘s Shirley Chisholm says in response to being told she sounds like every other politician in the trailer for “Shirley.”

Out March 22, the Netflix film tells the story of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, and chronicles her trailblazing 1972 presidential campaign. The movie is written and directed by John Ridley, who won an Oscar for penning “12 Years a Slave.”

“MICHAEL”

Sylvester February 13, 2024

Worldwide audiences received their first look today at Jaafar Jackson in performance as Michael Jackson, bringing to life the “Man in the Mirror” from the legendary 1992-1993 Dangerous Tour.

The iconic photo, captured by renowned photographer Kevin Mazur, was released by Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International, the studios behind the much-anticipated April 18, 2025 film “Michael.”

The choice to have Mazur capture the first-look photograph of Jaafar Jackson is as intentional as so many of the artistic choices the producers have made. As one of the photographers who documented Michael over many years, Mazur captured rehearsals as he prepared to entertain the world with his “This Is It” concerts. He is now also the first to photograph Jaafar Jackson in character as Michael.

“​​When I arrived for my first day on the set of this movie, I was so excited – it was like the first time I went on tour to shoot Michael Jackson,” said Mazur. “When I walked onto the set, I felt like I’d gone back in time and I was walking into the stadium to shoot the tour. Seeing Jaafar perform, I thought, ‘Wow, it is Michael.’ The way he looks and acts, his mannerisms, everything – he’s Michael Jackson. For anyone who didn’t have the chance to see Michael perform live during his lifetime – this is how it was.”

“With Jaafar, every look, every note, every dance move is Michael,” said producer Graham King. “He embodies Michael in a way that no other actor could.”

Director Antoine Fuqua added, “We have assembled an incredible team of artists for this project – hair & makeup, costumes, cinematography, choreography, lighting, everything – and some who knew and worked with Michael are reuniting for this film. But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael. It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”

Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International have slated the worldwide release for April 18th 2025. The film is now in production. 

Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will be introduced to worldwide audiences in the starring role of the beloved musical icon. Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Equalizer films) will direct the film with Oscar^® winner Graham King/GK Films (Bohemian Rhapsody, The Aviator, The Departed) producing, from a script by three-time Oscar^® nominee John Logan.

Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, captured by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known. 

Michael is produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain. Lionsgate is distributing the film domestically, while Universal Pictures International will handle all territories apart from Japan, which Lionsgate will oversee. 

Directed by: Antoine Fuqua

Written by: John Logan

Produced by: Graham King, John Branca, John McClain

Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long, with Miles Teller and Colman Domingo



Synopsis: MICHAEL will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.

A QUIET PLACE: DAY ONE

Sylvester February 9, 2024

OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS

Experience the day the world went quiet.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY

Allyson Seeger, Vicki Dee Rock

PRODUCED BY

Michael Bay, Andrew Form, p.g.a., Brad Fuller, John Krasinski

BASED ON CHARACTERS CREATED BY

Bryan Woods & Scott Beck

STORY BY

John Krasinski and Michael Sarnoski

SCREENPLAY BY

Michael Sarnoski

DIRECTED BY

Michael Sarnoski

STARRING

Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, and Djimon Hounsou

SINGLE BLACK FEMALE 2: SIMONE’S REVENGE-Trailer

Sylvester January 31, 2024

 Lifetime announces the highly anticipated sequel to Single Black Female, which garnered over 8.0 million total viewers across linear and on digital platforms and was the #1 original non-holiday movie of 2022. Amber Riley, Raven Goodwin and K. Michelle reprise their roles for Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, premiering Saturday, March 2 at 8p/7c set three years after the crazy events from the first film. 

Three years after narrowly escaping the murderous clutches of her half-sister Simone (Amber Riley), Monica (Raven Goodwin) is ready for a fresh start in Seattle as the host of the city’s #1 primetime investigative television program. With her best friend Bebe (K. Michelle) by her side and a new love interest, things are looking up for Monica. Secretly nursed back to health and suffering from amnesia, Simone is building a new life when she comes across Monica on TV and her memories come rushing back, leading to a fateful reunion between the sisters. Can the two put the past behind them? Or will Simone’s need to get revenge win the day?

The film also stars Morgan Alexandria (Line Sisters), Christine Horn (Snowfall) and Kendrick Cross (Ambitions). 

Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge is produced by Swirl Films for Lifetime. Gold Morgan, Ron Robinson, Abbey Sibucao and Eric Tomosunas serve as Executive Producers. Shari Carpenter directs from a script written by Sa’Rah Jones and Tessa Scott.

Kierra Sheard Visits SHERRI; SHARES NEWS ON BABY, MARRIAGE, TOUR & ALBUM

Sylvester January 25, 2024

Watch GRAMMY Winner, Kierra Sheard, on SHERRI, in a daytime exclusive, in which she introduces her babygirl, Khloe-Drew to the world, discusses her brand new book, KiKi Finds Her Voice, album, ALL YOURS, and shares the news of a brand new Spring tour, I GOT AWAY TOUR.

About KIKI FINDS HER VOICE

The book, Kiki Finds Her Voice, tells the story of Kiki as she decides to share her passion for church and god in her school’s talent show after being told by her parents she cannot sing a song with her friends about love. Based on a true story from Kierra’s life, this inspiring picture book helps kids discover how to best use their God-given gifts and what it means to be true to yourself even when it’s not the popular thing to do.

About Kierra Sheard-Kelly

Kierra Sheard-Kelly is a singer, songwriter, actress, and activist from Detroit, Michigan, who looks to express herself and inspire others in everything she does. Part of the next generation of the legendary gospel group the Clark Sisters, Kierra began her solo career in 2004 and has received a GRAMMY Award, multiple Stellar and DOVE Awards. She’s created her own clothing line entitled Eleven60, has a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and sciences, and works with organizations dedicated to youth and female empowerment. Kierra is also the author of two books for teens, Big, Bold, and Beautiful and The Vibes You Feel, as well as the picture book Kiki Finds Her Voice.

Urban One Celebrates TV One’s 20th Anniversary, Urban One Honors

Sylvester January 25, 2024

Urban One celebrated “The Best In Black” in Atlanta kicking off an Urban One Experience with a private invite-only media event at The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead on Friday, January 19th followed by the 6thAnnual URBAN ONE HONORS: Best In Black taped at The Coca Cola Roxy the following day. The two-hour “URBAN ONE HONORS: Best in Black” will premiere during Black History Month on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at 8p/7c, on TV One and simulcast on CLEO TV

Reginae Carter, Urban One Honors Red Carpet Host

CeeLo Green, Award-winning artist & Urban One Honors performer

At the Urban One Honors kickoff, Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman presented a proclamation on behalf of the City of Atlanta to Alfred C. Liggins III in recognition of TV One’s 20th Anniversary & Urban One Honors, thanking Urban One “for all of the ways you’ve helped bring families and our community to a deeper understanding of ourselves.”

The UnderDoggs Trailer

Sylvester January 23, 2024

Jaycen “Two Js” Jennings (Snoop Dogg) is a washed-up ex-professional football star who has hit rock bottom. When Jaycen is sentenced to community service coaching the Underdoggs, an unruly pee-wee football team in his hometown of Long Beach, California, he sees it as an opportunity to rebuild his public image and turn his life around. As Jaycen works to transform the foul-mouthed Underdoggs into top-notch champions, he reconnects with his past, including an old flame and few of his ex-teammates and rediscovers his love of the game.

Directed by: Charles Stone III

Written by: Danny Segal & Isaac Schamis

Produced by: Kenya Barris, p.g.a., Calvin Broadus, p.g.a., Constance Schwartz-Morini, p.g.a., Mychelle Deschamps, p.g.a., Jonathan Glickman, p.g.a.

Executive Producers: Jeremiah Samuels, Anni Weisband

Music by: Joseph Shirley

Cast: Snoop Dogg, Tika Sumpter, Mike Epps, Andrew Schulz, and George Lopez

Genre: Sports, Comedy

Rated: R for pervasive language, sexual references, drug use, and some underage drinking

Netflix’s GRISELDA Atlanta Screening Hosted by Mona Scott-Young

Sylvester January 23, 2024

On Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at iPic Atlanta Theater Mona Scott-Young hosted a special screening of Netflix’s new limited series, GRISELDA, starring Sofia Vergara. The series premieres on January 25.

The intimate screening included special guests: Eva Marcille, Yandy Smith and Mendeecees Harris, Kirk and Rasheeda Frost, and more.

Mona Scott-Young shared with guests episode 1, and spoke on the power of Sofia’s performance in the series, and what it means to be a BOSS (La Jefa), “I think watching this series, you will see we are all pushing our own kind of product…but what she [Griselda] also had was determination and passion and commitment to what it was she was doing. And she did it against all odds. And she did it in a world that was dominated by men. “

“In watching this series, there was a lot I could relate to. In watching this woman’s struggle and Sofia Vergara who not only produces the series, but also stars in it and does an amazing job. That’s another element I could relate to. Strong women doing what they do best.”

Following the screening, guests attended a private reception at Rumi’s Kitchen.

About GRISELDA:

GRISELDA is inspired by the life of the savvy and ambitious Griselda Blanco, who created one of the most profitable cartels in history. In 1970s-80s Miami, Blanco’s lethal blend of unsuspected savagery and charm helped her expertly navigate between business and family, leading her to become widely known as “the Godmother.” Starring and executive produced by Sofia Vergara, the dramatic limited series GRISELDA is created by NARCOS and NARCOS: MEXICO showrunner Eric Newman, who comes to the title alongside NARCOS director Andrés Baiz, who directs all six episodes. The series is co-created by Doug Miro, Ingrid Escajeda & Carlo Bernard and Executive Produced by Newman, Miro, Escajeda, Bernard, along with Vergara and Luis Balaguer with Latin World Entertainment. In addition to Vergara, the series stars Alberto Guerra, Christian Tappan, Martín Rodríguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito and, making her on screen debut, Carolina Giraldo (a.k.a Karol G).

Series Credits:

Format: Limited Series, 6 Episodes x 1 Hour

Executive Producer & Star: Sofía Vergara

Created by: Eric Newman & Doug Miro & Ingrid Escajeda & Carlo Bernard

Executive Producers: NARCOS and NARCOS: MEXICO showrunner and directing team Eric Newman and Andrés Baiz. As well as Doug Miro, Ingrid Escajeda, Carlo Bernard along with Sofía Vergara and Luis Balaguer with Latin World Entertainment.

Director: Andrés Baiz (all episodes)

Co-Showrunners: Ingrid Escajeda & Doug Miro

Starring: Sofía Vergara (Griselda Blanco), Alberto Guerra (Dario Sepúlveda), Christian Tappan (Arturo Mesa), Martín Rodríguez (Rivi Ayala), Juliana Aidén Martinez (June Hawkins), Vanessa Ferlito (Carmen Gutiérrez)

THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED DOCUMENTARY “GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE,”

Sylvester January 23, 2024

Black History Month honors the achievements and legacy of African Americans throughout U.S. history. This year’s theme is African Americans and the Arts spanning the many impacts Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, cultural movements, and more.  On February 13, in 800-theaters across the country, audiences can pay tribute to musical icon and disco legend Gloria Gaynor whose contributions have inspired millions with her powerful song “I Will Survive,” for a one-night-only theatrical release of the riveting documentary from Director Betsy Schechter, GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE. Following the screening, guests will participate in a once-in-a-lifetime singalong of the song that has inspired millions “I Will Survive.”  GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE is a story about reinvention, the power of faith and a magnificent second act.  “I am finally in a place of joy and self-fulfillment, and I am ready to share my secret to not only surviving, but thriving with the world,” said Gloria.  The documentary which has been hailed by critics as “…affectionate and engrossing…” and that  “…inspires the audience to believe it’s never too late to do whatever it is you want…” is a celebration of an icon and a testament to the power of resilience.  GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE is Directed by Betsy Schechter.

PERIMETER // New BET+ Trailer

Sylvester January 18, 2024

SERIES DESCRIPTION: In Atlanta, in the 1990’s a complex web of personal stories unfolds. Paige, a promising Spelman sophomore, veers off her path to success when she falls for a “bad boy” just before the pivotal “Freaknik” event. Adulthood disrupts their lives, pulling Paige, her long-term boyfriend Malcolm, and newcomer Romeo into a series of challenges. Amidst Atlanta’s global Olympic spotlight, eventual mayor Robert Dawn’s rise to power comes at the price of personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas. These interconnected stories set off a transformative chain reaction in the city, echoing Dante’s words: “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

EXECUTIVE CREDITS:

• Executive Producers: Tyler Perry, Armani Ortiz
• Producers: Asante White, Deance Wyatt
• Written by: Armani Ortiz
• Directed by: Armani Ortiz                         
• Produced by: Tyler Perry Studios 

Sundance Film Festival Announces the Top Ten Feature Films From Its First Four Decades As Decided by the Filmmaking Community

Sylvester January 16, 2024

Today, in advance of the 40th edition of the Sundance Film Festival kicking off on January 18, the nonprofit Sundance Institute is commemorating the four decades of extraordinary independent filmmaking presented at the Festival with the results of a survey taken by the filmmaking communities on their top ten feature films that have screened at the Festival since it began in 1985. 

In honor of this milestone Festival, filmmakers, critics, and industry members shared their personal top 10 lists. Over 500 people participated — pouring over the nearly 4,000 feature films that have been presented at the Festival — and below is the collective top 10 list of the Sundance Film Festival films that have touched hearts and changed lives. 

The 2024 Sundance Film Festival will take place January 18–28, 2024, in person in Park City and Salt Lake City, with a selection of titles available online nationwide from January 25–28, 2024. This year marks the 40th edition of the Festival, bringing together audiences in Utah and beyond to celebrate Sundance’s rich history of supporting engaging new stories and groundbreaking independent artists. Tickets are on sale now at festival.sundance.org. 

What from the 2024 Festival will make the top ten list in the future? 

40th Edition All Time Top Ten Films Selected by the Filmmaking Community

10. Blood Simple (1985), Joel and Ethan Coen

9. Y tu mamá también (2002), Alfonso Cuarón

8. Boyhood (2014), Richard Linklater

7. Before Sunrise (1995), Richard Linklater

6. sex, lies and videotape (1989), Steven Soderbergh

5. Memento (2001), Christopher Nolan

4. Little Miss Sunshine (2006), Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris

3. Get Out (2017), Jordan Peele

2. Reservoir Dogs (1992), Quentin Tarantino

1. Whiplash (2014), Damien Chazelle

About the films and the filmmakers whose features were selected as the personal favorite films from the filmmaking community: 

• Blood Simple was the debut feature film of Joel and Ethan Coen and won the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic.
• Richard Linklater directed two of the ten films selected.
• sex, lies and videotape was the debut feature film of Steven Soderbergh and won the Audience Award: Dramatic.
• Memento won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award for Christopher Nolan.
• Get Out was the debut feature film of Jordan Peele.
• Reservoir Dogs was the debut feature film of Quentin Tarantino.
• Whiplash won the Audience Award: U.S. Dramatic and the Grand Jury Prize: U.S. Dramatic.

Share your top 10 films that have screened at the Sundance Film Festival. Maybe they challenged you, thrilled you, made you cry, laugh, and see the world differently. What ten films for you best represent the breadth, diversity, artistic resonance, social, political, or cultural impact of independent storytelling that have screened at the Sundance Film Festival?

To scroll through our archives and see the feature films from our first four decades use this link:

MARY J. BLIGE TO RECEIVE ENTERTAINMENT ICON HONOR AT 2024 “URBAN ONE HONORS”

Sylvester January 9, 2024

Urban One announced that GRAMMY™ and EMMY Award-winning singer, OSCAR®-nominated actress and legendary Queen of Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige, will be recognized as the prestigious Entertainment Icon Honoree at “URBAN ONE HONORS.” The two-hour “URBAN ONE HONORS: Best in Black” event premieres during Black History Month on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 8p/7c, on TV One and simulcast on CLEO TV.

Mary J. Blige is one of the defining voices of the contemporary music era. With a track record of eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards (plus a staggering 32 nominations), an EMMY award, two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a SAG nomination, among many other accolades, Blige has cemented herself as a global superstar. Influenced at an early age by the music of Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight, Blige brought her own gritty, urban-rooted style—fusing hip-hop, soul, and honest, frank lyrics—to the forefront on her 1992 debut album “What’s the 411?” The multi-platinum set quickly spun off several hits, including two No. R&B No. 1s: “You Remind Me” and “Real Love.” Blige helped redefine R&B and began forging a unique niche for herself on the more personal second album, 1994’s “My Life.” She is loved for her passionate, chart-topping hits like “Be Without You,” “No More Drama,” and “Family Affair,” all of which have made her a force in music. Over her career, Blige has released 15 studio albums, in addition to starring in films and television programs such as “Mudbound”, “The Umbrella Academy”, “Respect”, “Power Book II: Ghost” and more. 

“Urban One is thrilled to honor the incomparable Mary J. Blige as our 2024 Entertainment Icon. Mary’s immeasurable talent and award-winning music has shaped our culture and has had a profound impact on artists and music across all genres, but most notably the elevation of female artists in both R&B and Hip Hop across generations. She fully personifies the ”Best in Black” theme of this year’s Urban One Honors,” says Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV.”

Blige joins previously announced esteemed honorees:  Dionne Warwick, recognized as the Lifetime Achievement Honoree; Chlöe, celebrated as the Generation Next Honoree; Frankie Beverly, honored as a Living Legend, and Donald Lawrence, acclaimed for his Inspirational Impact. 

PRESENTERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 81ST ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE® AWARDS

Sylvester January 5, 2024

Today, the Golden Globes® announced the star-studded lineup of presenters for the highly-anticipated 81^st Annual GoldenGlobe® Awards airing live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers in the United States, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs in the U.S. only). Presenters will take the stage alongside stand-up comedian, actor, and first-time host Jo Koy bringing his electrifying humor, unique charm, and boundless energy to Hollywood’s Party of the Year®, setting the stage for a night of surprise and delight.

Presenters for the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards include:Amanda Seyfried, America Ferrera, Andra Day, Angela Bassett, Annette Bening, Ben Affleck, Daniel Kaluuya, Don Cheadle, Dua Lipa, Elizabeth Banks, Florence Pugh, Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias, Gabriel Macht, George Lopez, Hailee Steinfeld, Hunter Schafer, Issa Rae, Jared Leto, Jodie Foster, Jon Batiste, Jonathan Bailey, Julia Garner, Justin Hartley, Kate Beckinsale, Keri Russell, Kevin Costner, Mark Hamill, Matt Damon, Michelle Yeoh, Naomi Watts, Oprah Winfrey, Orlando Bloom, Patrick J. Adams, Ray Romano, Rose McIver, Shameik Moore, Simu Liu, Utkarsh Ambudkar, and Will Ferrell.

“URBAN ONE HONORS” Kicks-Off Year-Long Celebration Of TV One’s 20th Anniversary 

Sylvester January 3, 2024