Tina Knowles Shuts Down Beyoncè And Taylor Swift Comparisons: ‘They Both Should Be Celebrated’
Mama Tina Knowles is not here for the constant comparisons betweenBeyoncè and Taylor Swift.
Paparazzi caught up with Knowles outside Los Angeles International Airport on Monday, August 14, where she was asked about fans comparing her daughter to Swift, who is also on a world tour.
“I have nothing to say about that,” Knowles told TMZ.
When the photog made mention of both Beyoncè and Swift being “amazing queens,” Mama Knowles agreed.
“Absolutely. I think they both should be celebrated,” she said.
The photog asked if fans should compare the two singing sensations.
“Absolutely not. You know better than that,” Knowles responded.
Fans agreed with Knowles’ sentiments on Beyoncè and Swift when the video clip was reposted by The Neighborhood Talk.
“Mama is so respectful.. yes give both of their flowers! Because Taylor got it on lock like Beyoncé,” one fan wrote.
“You know better than that” was code. 😂👑🐝”another fan added.
Her comments come amid the U.S legs of Beyoncè’s “Renaissance” world tour and Swift’s “Eras” tour. The tours are raking in millions for the Grammy-winning singers, with “Renaissance” becoming the high-grossing tour of Beyoncè’s career, with $295,676,504 in sales
So far, Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour has become her high-grossing tour, with it nearing $500 million in sales. She’s on track to make nearly $2.1 billion, according to Forbes. Meanwhile, Swift is not too far behind. She’s on track to earn more than $1 billion from her tour, according to Unilad.
Tina Knowles also shut down rumors of Beyoncé bringing her own toilet on tour, clarifying the photo was of boxes labeled “toilets” that Beyoncé’s tour uses to position fans onstage. Knowles said rumors of her daughter bringing her own toilet on tour are “so ridiculous.”
Meet the Formally Incarcerated Filmmaker Who is Now on His 9th Film for Amazon Prime and Tubi
Kwende Ried is an African American independent filmmaker and also the founder of Cheddaboy Films. Based in Detroit, Michigan, he has already released nine different films that can be seen on Amazon Prime and Tubi, a huge accomplishment for anyone, but especially for a person that has been formally incarcerated.
Kwende, who describes himself as a resilient and positive Black man, is a beacon of hope and transformation. Having faced the challenges of the criminal justice system due to selling marijuana, his life took a remarkable turn as he embraced filmmaking to empower his community and provide aspiring actors a chance to pursue their dreams. Some of his impactful movies include “One More Flip,” “Cheddaboys,” “5 Minutes,” and “Off the Porch.”His personal experiences during his time in prison profoundly impacted his perspective on life. Upon regaining his freedom, he recognized a profound calling to effect positive change and create opportunities for others facing similar challenges. Embracing his passion for filmmaking, Kwende founded Cheddaboy Films, a platform dedicated to telling authentic stories that shed light on the realities of the inner city, inspiring residents to rise above adversity.
In his debut film, “One More Flip,” Kwende crafted a poignant portrayal of a young woman navigating her way out of the drug trade, determined to pursue a better future. The film conveys the importance of making positive choices and seeking alternatives to the path of crime.
In “Cheddaboys,” he delves into the lives of individuals growing up in drug-dealing families, determined to uplift their community through music and talents. The film celebrates the power of friendship, unity, and artistic expression, encouraging viewers to channel their passions into vehicles of change.
“5 Minutes” passionately explores the impact of one bad decision on loyalty and friendship, igniting a chain of events that can alter lives forever. Through this film, Kwende sparks conversations about social change and raises awareness of the issues affecting marginalized communities.
In “Off the Porch,” he skillfully navigates the complexities of familial relationships and the impact of mentorship. The movie portrays the journey of a troubled young man, who finds solace in music and violence, ultimately affecting everyone around him. “Off the Porch” resonates with viewers, emphasizing the importance of positive role models and fostering a sense of community.
Empowering Black And Latinx Students: Silvia Canales Of The Brotherhood Sister Sol Sets The Stage For A Productive Back-to-School Season
As summer comes to an end and makes way for a new school year, preparations begin for both students and parents. These preparations aren’t just about hitting the back-to-school sales, but also ensuring students are in the proper mindset for the upcoming school year. In marginalized communities, the transition can pose extra challenges that demand additional resources and support.
The Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis), a Harlem-based nonprofit and social justice organization focused on Black and Latinx youth, offers much-needed resources for families to get ready for the back-to-school season through activities and programs.
Guiding this empowering organization is Silvia Canales, the director of College, Career & Wellness at BroSis.
Canales and her team at BroSis understand the significance of supporting youth and their education efforts year-round.
“Throughout the year, we keep our members active and engaged, whether it’s dissecting various types of media, exploring NYC museums, delving into horticultural sciences, or embarking on international journeys to African or Latin American countries,” explained Canales.“Our summer programming is designed to cultivate and peak our members’ interests, fostering a continuous love for learning that extends beyond the academic year and seamlessly integrates back into the classroom.”
BroSis even aids youth when they transition from high school to college. This pivotal milestone often times requires a lot of support, and BroSis takes proactive measures to ensure students are well-equipped for this transformative journey. A cornerstone of their strategy is the concept of Holistic College Access. Starting from an early age, students are introduced to the college world to gain valuable insights.
“Here at BroSis, we are dedicated to empowering Black and Latinx youth to claim the power of their history, identity and community and build the future they want to see. Holistic College Access includes preparing our members for the daunting college transition,” explains Canales.
She continues, “At BroSis, we foster a college-going culture, introducing careers, higher education, and post-secondary options to our elementary school-aged members. College tours are an integral part of our programming, exposing members to diverse campuses and demographics.”
Through BroSis students can delve into an intensive college preparation phase and the organization provides a supportive space that is curated to discuss and navigate college-related challenges. From confronting the realities of attending Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) to gaining financial literacy and acclimating to new social environments, students are equipped with the tools to navigate their college journey successfully.
“During the summer of their senior year, we conduct our Transition Workshop series, a space where members learn about what to expect on a college campus and in social scenes, receive tips on how to access resources at school, as well as delve into budgeting and financial literacy to best prepare them for this initial stage of adulthood and independence,” says Canales.
She adds that the organization also helps students obtain supplies. “We ensure their basic needs are met, and provide our college-bound members with laptops and educational scholarships to assist in covering the gaps in financial aid. These scholarships have helped cover costs in tuition, room and board, and personal expenses such as toiletries and travel back and forth to school,” she says.
Carrying out BroSis’ mission, Canales remains committed to fostering a culturally inclusive environment. Via BroSis’ impactful programs, students connect with professionals of color who share similar backgrounds, effectively dismantling barriers and inspiring them to pursue their aspirations.
“As an educator and a social activist, I am committed to introducing our members toprofessionals of color who look like them and share similar backgrounds. I ensure that our young people literally see themselves in boardrooms, and corporate offices as heads of institutions and policy makers,” notes Canales.
To lay a strong foundation for the upcoming school year, collaboration with parents, teachers, and community members is imperative. BroSis actively informs stakeholders about their comprehensive approach, inviting them to join forces in nurturing student success. This unified effort amplifies the impact, ensuring that students are holistically supported on their educational journey.
In the face of academic challenges, Canales’ advice to students is clear and potent: “Ask for help!” She emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance when needed, as a network of resources is readily available to fuel their academic growth.
“Schools, teachers, counselors, and community educators are all here for YOUR success. Any struggle, obstacle, or challenge you may face can be overcome with the appropriate support and resources. You may not have them in your hands at the moment, but someone you know may be able to lend a guiding hand.”
Black Woman Entrepreneur, Owner Of 50 Airbnb Properties, Launches Construction Firm
Meet Janay White, an African American entrepreneur from Jacksonville, Florida, who owns more than 50 Airbnb properties. She also owns J White Construction Inc, a Black woman-owned construction company that has recently been certified as a vendor with the state of Florida, paving the way for her mission to offer affordable housing to first-time homebuyers and single mothers, revitalizing poverty-stricken areas in the process.
At just 36 years old, Janay’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable. Not only is she the CEO of eight successful businesses, but she is also the founder of a non-profit organization and possesses 8 investment properties, three of which are new construction homes built from the ground up. Additionally, she runs a hair salon and boasts an impressive rental car fleet of 8 vehicles, exclusively offered to single mothers.
Janay’s story is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Rising from homelessness and living paycheck to paycheck, she transformed her life through sheer determination and hard work, establishing herself as an accomplished serial entrepreneur and the CEO of not one, but eight incredibly successful 6 and 7-figure companies. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope, dedicated to empowering others to attain financial freedom and create generational wealth.
Her journey was no easy ride. Working two jobs daily for a decade, she honed invaluable traits of tenacity and dedication while holding roles as a social worker and fraud investigator at the Florida Department of Children and Families from 2010-2020 and as a Revenue Auditor in the accounting and finance department at UPS from 2011-2020. These experiences fueled her passion to make a difference and serve as a guiding light for those facing financial challenges.
Janay’s impact is undeniable. Countless glowing reviews from those she’s touched and empowered bear witness to her transformative influence on individuals and communities alike.
She also owns and runs J White Credit University, which helps people flourish financially by teaching them to leverage their credit, creating multiple streams of income that lead to financial independence and generational wealth. This is also done via seminars, mentorship courses, and personalized one-on-one sessions.
Meet the 3 Women Behind the Newest Black-Owned Jewelry Storefront in Baton Rouge
Patnisha Williams, Jessica Matthews, and Deanna Bynog are the founders of Get Signatured, a Black-owned customizable jewelry curator and accessories brand that will be opening its first brick and mortar first storefront location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This grand opening marks a significant milestone for the brand as it expands from an online to an in-store brand and will honor its commitment to deepening connections with its consumers by meeting them in their community.
The grand opening will take place on August 18, 2023, from 10am to 6pm at 11445 Coursey Boulevard, Suite O, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, where guests will get to experience a celebration aimed at highlighting the less than 7% Black women in the jewelry industry and further cementing the presence of minority-owned businesses in Baton Rouge during National Black Business Month.
Attendees will experience a Ribbon – Cutting Ceremony in the morning hour conducted by East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome to inaugurate Get Signatured, a live showroom tour of Get Signatured’s newest signature jewelry collections, live giveaways, and more!
“We are very excited about the grand opening! It feels surreal and also amazing to open a storefront where we can build relationships with our customers and have a place where they can shop for their jewelry and accessories and feel seen,” says Patnisha.
With August being National Black Business Month, Get Signatured is honored to be joining the fast-growing number of Black Owned businesses and brick and mortars in Baton Rouge.
“As many are aware, most businesses are built on Black spending power. It is a privilege to be able to fill in the gap by offering custom items for our community with unique names without the hefty price tag,” says Jessica.
“Being able to launch a woman-owned jewelry storefront is one of the highlights of my entrepreneurship journey. The success of every woman…should be an inspiration to other women that your dreams can come true,” comments Deanna.
Uncle Luke Calls Out Gatekeepers For Excluding Florida Rappers From 50th Year Hip-Hop Celebrations
One of the pioneers of hip-hop has publicly chastised the ‘gatekeepers’ for keeping him and many other Florida superstars out of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Uncle Luke, the artist responsible for being the reason hip-hop albums were given warning labels, has a message for all who will listen.
Luther Campbell, also known as Uncle Luke, who started Luke Skyywalker Records in 1986, took to his Instagram account with a legitimate beef.
With most celebrations occurring throughout the United States, one of the first hip-hop independent label owners has not been invited to the numerous parties. The man who signed and then joined the 2 Live Crew left a message to hip-hop fans from Florida to let them know that although Florida hasn’t been prevalent in these celebrations, they will have their own to celebrate before the year ends.
“Hip-hop fans from Florida. Don’t be upset they don’t recognize your favorite Floridian artists as part of hip-hop’s 50th-year celebrations. This industry has never considered us as hip-hop from the time I started hip-hop in the South. You can only imagine the names they called us. Country booty music trash, music. I can go on and on the disrespect towards Florida hip-hop. Still to this day, we fight for our respect, and you have stood behind us every step of the way. We will continue fighting. There will be a day this year where we come together and celebrate Florida hip-hop artist from the top of the state to the bottom. We love you Thank You for your support.”
Keep in mind Florida is full of popular and relevant hip-hop artists. From the inception with Uncle Luke to Trick Daddy, Trina to Rick Ross and Plies, and now Kodak Black and Rod Wave, the disrespect seems unwarranted.
Yet, a former rival came to the defense of Uncle Luke and suggested they have a joint celebration between the South and the West. Yes, California’s Snoop Dogg, who once famously beefed with the Florida label owner when he debuted with Dr. Dr,e has called for a celebration together!
In the comments section, Snoop replied, “I love and respect what u did for me and my hip hop journey Uncle Luke on and off the mic 🎤 let’s do a southwest. Hip hop celebration so we can get the flowers to you and the. Other founders who mean so much to this thang called hip hop love and Respect. O. G. Can’t spell hip hop without the south or the west 🐐🙌🏿🐾🙏🏾🎤”
Uncle Luke went to court and fought against the government for the right of rappers to say what they wanted to on records. His album, “As Nasty As They Wanna Be,” released in 1989, was the first album deemed legally obscene. The least hip-hop can do is celebrate this man!
‘Bey Day’: Atlanta Grants Beyoncé Her Own Holiday For Renaissance Tour
It is “Bey Day” In Atlanta. This past weekend, Beyoncé graced the Georgia capital at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a three-show stint for her Renaissance World Tour, performing each nigh to crowds filled with the singer’s fans and ultimate Bey-Hive members within the city.
As reported by UpRoxx, Atlanta decided to show extra love to the songstress with the honor of a “Beyoncé Day.” The Atlanta City Council officially recognized the holiday celebrating the acclaimed singer on Aug. 11.
The council released a statement on Beyoncé’s impact not only within the southern city, but across the world for decades.
Atlanta proclaims August 11th Beyoncé Day in honor of the Renaissance World Tour. pic.twitter.com/j3BBzrHl0h
“The Atlanta City Council is honored to recognize Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, a highly acclaimed and revered singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman, whose extraordinary contributions to the realms of music, entertainment, and philanthropy have made her one of the influential cultural figures of the 21st century,” as stated by the proclamation.
The statement also detailed the mother of three’s accomplishments, including her 32 Grammy awards and 24 NAACP Image Awards. Her advocacy for marginalized groups, like the LGBTQ+ community, was also highlighted within the document.
“As an accomplished singer, songwriter, and producer, Beyoncé has continuously pushed the boundaries of creativity, using her art to tell stories that resonate with diverse audiences and advocate for social change,” the statement continued. “[…] And her groundbreaking performances and unapologetic celebration of her heritage have inspired millions to embrace their individuality and embrace their roots with pride.”
After the first cohort of Atlanta Bey-Hive won her viral “everybody on mute” challenge, it’s clear that Atlanta holds the global icon in high esteem. Atlanta-bred artists have also been in attendance at the shows, including former Migos member Quavo and singers Chloe and Halle Bailey, who are also signed to the “Cuff It” the songstress’ label, Parkwood Entertainment. As she completes her trio of performances within the Peach State, her influence and legacy will continue to be felt within the culture of Atlanta.
‘Rumor Has It’ Lupita Nyong’o Being Considered For Disney’s Live-Action ‘The Princess and the Frog’
Disney has been in their bag creating live-action movies for all the animated favorites. Up next is The Princess and the Frog, with Oscar-nominated actress Lupita Nyong’o allegedly being a favorite for the role, Love B Scott reports.
Nyong’o would play the beloved role of Princess Tiana, the Black Bayou beauty, in search of her forever love. Actress Anika Noni Rose voiced the role in the 2009 movie, leaving Disney fans curious on social media why she isn’t a front-runner for the role.
No shade to Lupita, but why wouldn’t they just get Anika Noni Rose to do it? I mean…🤷🏽♀️
While fans credit the Black Panther star for her acting skills, most Disney fans already have their eye on a rising star to secure the role—CoCo Jones. “But I want Coco Jones like Disney owes her,” one fan wrote. Another said, “I think she fits the role but I was hoping for Coco Jones.”
Of course, as rumors start to fly about the creation of the film, the doors open for racism to take part. According to Fandomwire, racists are vying for white actress Emma Stone to play the part—crediting her role as the villain in Cruella de Vi.
If the rumors are true about Disney developing the live-action version, fans are hoping veteran actor Keith David, who lent his voice as the movie villain, Dr. Facilier, will make an appearance. However, according to David, he hasn’t been approached yet. “I’m not sure if this is true, but I do know that @Disney has not asked me to reprise the role of Dr. Facilier!”
While the animated version wasn’t a box office smash, it has become a cult favorite overtime, even prompting the renaming of Disney World’s Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Nyong’o already has Disney roots, playing Raksha in the live-action The Jungle Book and the Star Wars sequel trilogy as Maz Kanata.
Atlanta’s ‘Stop Cop City’ Appeal Denied As Petition Holds Close To 80K Signatures
Here’s another victory for Atlanta’s “Stop Cop City” activists.
A federal judge denied the city of Atlanta’s appeal trying to pause the “Stop Cop City” referendum petition drive, Rough Draft Atlanta reported. Organizers with the Vote to Stop Cop City coalition claim they have gathered close to 80,000 signatures – more than its original goal of 70,000 announced at the start of the campaign in June.
U.S. District Court Judge Mark H. Cohen denied the city’s appeal from his previous ruling to allow people who live outside the city to collect signatures as part of the petition campaign. His decision was in response to a lawsuit filed by DeKalb County residents claiming their First Amendments rights were being violated due to the requirements allowing only Atlanta residents to collect signatures for the referendum. In Cohen’s order, he said that “the City’s concern about this Court’s Preliminary Injunction Order causing ‘hassle, confusion, and expense’ because of the potential invalidity of the petition is no different than what would have occurred without the injunction.”
The new referendum would allow city residents to vote “yes” or “no” to repeal the city’s ordinance authorizing the leased property to house the new construction for the Atlanta Police Foundation training center. The coalition group says it will continue to collect as many signatures as it can, with the end goal being 100,000.
The petition will then be given to the city on August 21, the deadline the group needs to meet in order to have the proposed referendum on the November ballot.
We will be submitting our signatures to the City of Atlanta Clerk on MONDAY, August 21st. Thanks to the tireless work of EVERYONE who has pounded the pavement, we have already collected nearly 80,000 signatures! #stopcopcitypic.twitter.com/2ev1d6kCa8
According to Fox News, the organizers technically only needed 58,203 signatures by August 14 to qualify for the ballot, but they are setting a higher goal as they realize some signatures will be disqualified.
Organizers have battled against Atlanta’s Mayor Andre Dickens and the city council as they fear the training center will lead to greater conflicts between the police and the Black community.
Despite Maui officials “welcoming” Winfrey to continue to uplift the community, online critics are calling her actions “truly disgusting,”Newsweek reports.
Just like when Meghan Markle took a camera crew to #Uvalde after the massacre of young children. These celebrities are trash!
— Evans E. 🏳️🌈⚧ 👨🏿🏫 #KingCharles’Angel (@jomilleweb) August 14, 2023
Another wrote, “Why was it necessary for @Oprah to bring a film crew into a shelter for people displaced by #MauiFires? Is she going to merch their misfortune? Sick and twisted.”
However, Maui city officials shared on Facebook how grateful they were that Winfrey showed up, and clarified exactly what happened with the camera crew. “Oprah was able to visit our shelter and we thank her for instructing media journalists and camera crews to remain outside,” they wrote. “Her visit inside of the shelter today was truly heartwarming and we appreciate her understanding of our policy of having no camera crews or reporters accompanying dignitaries and celebrities in our emergency shelters.”
According to Variety, Winfrey, a part-time Maui resident, was denied entry to the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku. Maui policy restricted media access, explaining in a statement, “Out of respect for those who have come to seek safety and shelter at emergency shelters, our policy remains that no media are given access.
“We welcome Oprah to continue to uplift our community’s spirit and give her aloha to victims of the tragic disaster and appreciate her understanding of our policy of no camera crews or reporters in our emergency shelters. Mahalo.”
The former talk show host was filmed on August 10 handing out supplies at the stadium, and mentioned in a Instagram clip that rebuilding the island “is going to be a long and difficult process.”
“There is such an incredible spirit going on in this entire community,” she said. “I know that, long after the camera crews are gone and the rest of the world has moved on, the rebuilding will just begin.”
