by Stacy Jackson

June 27, 2025

HGTV Cancels ‘Married To Real Estate’, Hosts Say It’s ‘Disheartening’

'Married to Real Estate' aired from January 2022 to May 2025. The hosts say the show's cancellation is unexpected, but they're "not done."

“Married to Real Estate” hosts Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson will no longer be in HGTV’s show lineup after a four-season run.

The real estate power couple broke the news to fans on Instagram Tuesday, stating, “Mike and I just landed back in the States after an unforgettable family trip through the Mediterranean, and were met with unexpected news: HGTV has decided not to move forward with Married to Real Estate,” the statement read.

The unexpected news is disappointing for Sherrod and Jackson, who added, “While the chain of events leading up to this is disheartening, we are deeply grateful. Grateful for four incredible seasons. Grateful for our amazing crew and supportive fans. Grateful that our businesses continue to thrive. And most of all, grateful that we are still very much married to real estate (and to each other).”

“Married to Real Estate” premiered on HGTV in January 2022. Sherrod, a real estate broker and designer, partnered with Jackson, her husband, as the two found and designed dream homes for families in and around Atlanta. It all started when Jackson recorded Sherrod’s design process on his phone, the couple said during an exclusive conversation with BLACK ENTERPRISE in May. The home renovation series aired 44 episodes and garnered millions of viewers. According to Variety, the show boasted over 16 million viewers during season three.

“For now, know this,” the couple wrote in their joint statement. “Not all setbacks are what they seem. Some blessings show up in disguise. We’ve been here before. We’ll keep counting those blessings–and keep it moving.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Egypt Sherrod (@egyptsherrod)

The news also came as a shock to fans who rallied in the comments under the Instagram announcement. Viewers praised the couple for their professionalism and craftsmanship. Jackson left his comment under the June 24 post, promising fans he and his wife are “not done.” He made one thing clear—“God makes no mistakes. However, people and opinions do. We’ll discuss that on a later date, though. We thank all the FAMS for rocking with us through it all. We appreciate the love and support.”

Although the chapter has closed for the real estate experts, they encouraged fans to stay tuned for what’s to come. “There’s more to say, and we’ll share soon,” the hosts stated.

Season four of “Married to Real Estate” concluded in May 2025, following a 12-episode season.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 27, 2025

The Whispers’ Founding Member, Walter Scott, Succumbs To Cancer

He was 81

The R&B world is in mourning after the announcement of the death of Walter Scott, a member of the soul group, The Whispers.

According to SoulTracks, the co-founder of the group, who was battling cancer, died at the age of 81. The passing was confirmed by Desirae L. Benson, who works with the Whispers promotional team.

“We all are incredibly heartbroken. It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Walter Scott, beloved member of the legendary R&B group The Whispers,” she said in a written statement. “His voice, presence, and contributions helped shape a musical legacy that touched millions. Walter’s impact on the industry and in the hearts of fans will never be forgotten. Memorial details will be shared at a later date. Sending love and light to his family, friends, and all of the millions of fans around the world. We lost a legend!“

We are devastated to pass on the news of the passing of the great Walter Scott of The Whispers. https://t.co/jwhyLjyBYy pic.twitter.com/XEVY7HzCZ6

— soultracks (@soultrackscom) June 27, 2025

Scott had been ill with cancer over the past six months. He started the group with his twin brother, Wallace (Scotty) Scott, along with members Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon, who was later replaced in the group by Leaveil Degree (who was once a member of the R&B group The Friends of Distinction). The group was started in 1963, but they achieved their greatest success in 1979, after releasing “And the Beat Goes On,” their first number one hit. The song catapulted their self-titled album, The Whispers, to platinum status when it sold over four million units. The project also produced a number three hit, “Lady.”

The group followed up with the hit, “It’s a Love Thang,” producing a song that peaked at number two in 1981. Their next number one song, and arguably one of the group’s best songs, “Rock Steady,” produced by famed R&B producers L.A. and Babyface, was released in 1987.

Walter leaves behind his wife Jan, two sons, and three grandchildren.

Virginia State University, HBCU, Accredited Social Work Program

by Kandiss Edwards

June 27, 2025

Where Them Bands At? VSU Profits $12K Selling Graduation Fans

Proceeds from the Virginia State University themed fan sale will directly benefit the university’s student tuition assistance program.

Virginia State University raised $12,000 by selling graduation fans associated with the viral “Boots On The Ground” dance, as stated in a press release from VSU.

The Virginia State University-themed item went on sale for $20. A total of 600 units were sold. Proceeds from the sale directly benefit the university’s student tuition assistance program. The fans gained popularity after the university’s 2025 commencement on May 17.

Gwen Williams Dandridge, assistant vice president for communications, commented on the “joyful” moment. She is pleased to share a small piece of commencement day with the community.

“It just goes to show how our viral videos have a profound impact,” Dandridge said. “By offering the fans for purchase, we not only shared a piece of that unforgettable day, but we also helped to open doors for our Trojans through tuition assistance. We turned a joyful moment into a meaningful opportunity, which is a powerful way to show that Greater truly Happens Here, and everyone can be a part of it.”

The moment was surprising for many as the president of the university, Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, warned graduates against performing while crossing the stage. He seated the graduates before instructing them to reach for the fans beneath their seats.

Setting off the celebration, Abdullah exclaimed, “Where them fans at?”

As the sounds of 803 Fresh’s Boots on the Ground played loudly across the building, students, faculty, and attendees began to party. Consequently, videos of the graduation spread, creating demand for the graduation memento.

Boots At Universities

VSU isn’t the only university celebrating the cultural phenomenon known as the Boots on the Ground initiative. In May 2025, 803 Fresh, the creator of the viral song, recorded the official video at the University of South Carolina. On the football field during a sunny Carolina day, 803 Fresh performed the now-famous line dance. The HBCU’s marching band featured prominently in the background of the music video.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

June 27, 2025

Jamaica Urges King Charles To Push Reparations Agenda Before UK Council

Jamaica continues its fight for reparations with new calls for King Charles to take the conversation to UK's Privy Council.

The country of Jamaica is taking its fight for reparations to King Charles in hopes that he’ll present the case to the UK’s Privy Council.

During a June 24 meeting, the Jamaican parliament announced plans to petition King Charles to seek legal guidance from the London-based Judicial Committee of the Privy Council on the matter of slavery reparations, Reuters reported. The Council, which acts as the top court of appeal for UK overseas territories and several Commonwealth nations, can review matters referred by King Charles, who, under the Judicial Committee Act of 1833, remains Jamaica’s head of state despite its independence from Britain in 1962.

“We will be submitting a petition to His Majesty King Charles III to refer to the Privy Council a set of questions that we want answered within his current position as head of state of Jamaica,” said Jamaica’s culture minister, Olivia Grange.

During the Atlantic slave trade, hundreds of thousands of enslaved Africans were brought to Jamaica, shaping the country’s majority-Black population. Today, many live in poverty, alongside a smaller mixed-race community and a small, affluent white population.

Scholars and advocates argue that the legacy of slavery left a stain on the country that’s evident through present-day inequalities. While calls for reparations have long persisted, Jamaica’s latest appeal to King Charles is aimed at keeping the issue in the public eye. However, the topic remains controversial, with many European leaders choosing to ignore the conversation altogether.

Grange stated that the Jamaican government is asking the council to determine whether the forced transport and enslavement of Africans in Jamaica was legal at the time, and whether it qualifies as a crime against humanity. The government is also urging the council to consider whether Britain has a responsibility to provide reparations to Jamaica for the injustices of slavery and its lasting effects still felt today.

This latest effort follows a bill introduced by Jamaica’s government in December to remove King Charles as head of state. While the King expressed deep sorrow over slavery in a 2022 speech to Commonwealth leaders, Britain, like other former colonial powers, has continued to reject calls for reparations.

by Keka Araújo

June 27, 2025

12 Bangers: Your Ultimate Playlist For Caribbean Heritage Month

As Caribbean Heritage Month illuminates the rich tapestry of island cultures, music stands as a vibrant pulse, echoing traditions, resilience, and unbridled joy. From the infectious rhythms of Trinidadian Soca to the irresistible sway of Cuban timba and reparto and Jamaican dancehall, the Caribbean has consistently produced chart-topping anthems that move feet and uplift spirits globally. To honor this dynamic musical legacy, here are 12 essential “bangers” – high-energy tracks that encapsulate the diverse sounds of the region, perfect for any celebration of Caribbean heritage.

This curated list features electrifying hits from across the islands, including Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Haiti, Grenada, and Guadeloupe:

“DANSA” by Klassik Frescobar (Jamaica/Miami) A high-energy Soca track by the Jamaican-born, Miami-based artist Klassik Frescobar, “DANSA” is a vibrant fusion of Soca, Dancehall, and Calypso. This infectious Dennery Segment banger is designed to get you moving and embodies the pure excitement of Caribbean parties.

2. “Blin Blin” by Los 4 & Yomil (Cuba) This high-energy Latin Urban banger, hailing from Cuba, combines the vibrant sounds of reggaeton and reparto cubano. Its infectious beat and dynamic vocals make it an undeniable dancefloor filler, showcasing Cuba’s impactful contribution to contemporary Caribbean music with an irresistible groove.

3. “Pa Que Lo Bailes” by Lomiiel (Dominican Republic) This high-energy dembow track from the Dominican Republic, particularly popular with its “Bailalo Rocky” version, is an explosive party anthem. Its infectious rhythm and repetitive, dance-inducing chorus make it a definitive banger from the vibrant Dominican music scene, perfect for getting your feet moving.

4. “BAILE INoLVIDABLE” by Bad Bunny (Puerto Rico) From his 2025 album “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” this high-energy salsa track is a vibrant tribute to Puerto Rican cultural heritage. Bad Bunny’s foray into the classic genre delivers an “unforgettable dance” experience, solidifying its place as a modern Caribbean banger with undeniable rhythm and flair.

5. “Faluma” by Alison Hinds (Barbados) Hailed as the “Queen of Soca,” Alison Hinds delivers this iconic track in a blend of Soca and the traditional language of the Surinamese Saamaka people. “Faluma” is a powerful and infectious anthem that showcases her commanding vocals and electrifying stage presence, guaranteeing a vibrant dance floor.

6. “Pretty Girl” by Vybz Kartel (Jamaica) A vibrant dancehall track, “Pretty Girl” from the undisputed “Worl’ Boss” Vybz Kartel delivers a pop-tinged bounce with signature dancehall rhythms. Released in 2025, this track celebrates confidence and femininity, making it a fresh and undeniable banger from Jamaica’s dynamic music landscape.

7. “SULLY” by Ricky T (St. Lucia) Saint Lucian soca powerhouse Ricky T delivers this high-energy track, which became a Road March winner in 2017. Known for its infectious rhythms and commanding vocals, “SULLY” is a quintessential banger that energizes any Caribbean celebration, inviting everyone to hit the dance floor.

8. “Criminel Gouyad” by DJ Frej, T-Gui, DJ Tyson (Haiti) This energetic Kompa Gouyad track is a driving force from the Haitian music scene. With its infectious rhythms and commanding beats, “Criminel Gouyad” is designed to get crowds moving and is a strong representation of the genre’s power and danceability.

9. “Split in De Middle” by Mr. Killa (Grenada) Mr. Killa’s electrifying Jab Jab Soca hit is a high-energy, humorous anthem that has become a staple at Grenadian carnivals and beyond. Its raw energy and crowd-engaging lyrics make it an undeniable banger, guaranteed to get the party started.

10. “Somos Cubanos” by Los Van Van (Cuba) A timeless classic from Cuba’s legendary orchestra, “Somos Cubanos” is a vibrant expression of Cuban identity and pride. This infectious song, known for its dynamic Timba and Songo rhythms, encapsulates the soul of the island and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any celebration.

11. “BUOWEY” by 1T1 ft Théomaa (Guadeloupe)
This dynamic track, often associated with the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe and its vibrant bouyon scene, brings an electrifying energy that makes it an instant party starter. Its infectious beat and commanding vocals will have everyone moving to the rhythm.

12. “Famalay” by Machel Montano, Skinny Fabulous, & Bunji Garlin (Trinidad & Tobago)

This super-soca anthem captured the hearts of carnival enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying its place as a quintessential modern-day banger. Its powerful message of unity and infectious rhythm make it a global favorite, inspiring collective joy and pride at every listen.

These tracks are more than just songs; they are vibrant expressions of Caribbean identity, heritage, and the unifying power of music that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Snoop Dogg, Snoop Dogg, Holiday Halftime Show, nfl

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 27, 2025

Snoop Dogg Settles Lawsuit With Session Musician Regarding Tracks On 2022 Album

The dispute was about backing tracks on the 2022 album, BODR

Calvin Broadus Jr., AKA Snoop Dogg, was sued for failing to get permission to use some music from a studio musician for his 2022 album, BODR, but the two sides have reached a settlement in the legal dispute.

According to Billboard, a joint motion was filed on June 24 in a Los Angeles courthouse by Snoop and session musician Trevor Lawrence Jr., stating that both sides wish to dismiss the lawsuit filed in 2024. Lawrence initially accused the Gin & Juice recording artist of failing to license two backing tracks that were recorded and used on the 2022 project, BODR.

This filing was made after both parties stated in a previous court filing that they had settled with the help of a mediator back in April. Terms of the agreement were not publicly disclosed.

Lawrence’s attorney, Frank Trechsel, told the media outlet that he can’t discuss the settlement but said, “Our client is happy to have resolved the dispute.”

The musician accused Snoop and the label he owns and records for, Death Row Records. He stated that the music used wasn’t cleared for the songs “Pop Pop” and “Get This D**k.”

He claimed that the two backing tracks were given to Snoop “on spec” and in 2020 to “experiment” with in the studio. Snoop was allegedly told that he would have to license the tracks if he decided to use them on the project. However, two years later, when the album was released, a licensing agreement was never made between the musician and the Long Beach rapper.

In the lawsuit, Lawrence even states that the two songs were also sold as NFTs (non-fungible tokens), which purportedly made tens of millions of dollars in profits.

Snoop denied any wrongdoing and stated that Lawrence was paid a producer fee of $20,000. Once that check was cashed, attorneys for Snoop said that solidified the deal made between the parties.

In a December court filing, Snoop’s attorney stated, “If Lawrence is entitled to any monies from defendants, it is the agreed-upon producer royalties offset against the $20,000 that he was already paid.”

The trial was set to begin in September before the parties announced the settlement.

Black-owned businesses, app, Birmingham, Better Auth

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 27, 2025

Self-Taught Ethiopian Developer Raises $5M For ‘The Best Authentication Tool’ Better Auth

It all started at 18, when Engida started programming after a friend declined to assist him build an e-commerce search app

Ethiopian startup Better Auth is being labeled the “best authentication tool” after its creator, Bereket Engida, raised roughly $5 million in seed funding from top investors, TechCrunch reports.

Better Auth is an app providing an open-source framework, committed to simplifying how developers manage user authentication. Engida, a self-taught developer from the African nation, raised the hefty amount for his startup from Peak XV, formerly known as Sequoia India and Southeast Asia, Y Combinator, P1 Ventures, and Chapter One.

The beauty behind Engida’s genius is that the app was created in Ethiopia before he set foot in the U.S. It all started at 18, when he began programming after a friend declined to assist him in building an e-commerce search app. However, after landing numerous software jobs and building a web analytics platform that enables developers to monitor website user behavior, he continued to notice that authentication was a problem.

In the world of apps, each one has to be able to manage how users sign in and out of the system and reset passwords. After realizing that existing tools had extensive limitations or were too expensive to scale, allowing administrators to handle permissions and user roles, Engida took matters into his own hands. “I remember needing an organization feature. It’s a very common use case for most SaaS applications, but it wasn’t available from these providers,” the developer said.

“So I had to build it from scratch. It took me about two weeks, and I remember thinking, ‘This is crazy; there has to be a better way to solve this.’”

Engida and Co-Founder Kinfe Michael Tariku believed from the start that developers should be able to own their authentication systems rather than being committed to expensive platforms. It’s one of the various reasons why investors are celebrating it. The Addis Ababa native started working on a TypeScript-based authentication framework, making it fool-proof for developers to build secure login, verification, and session management workflows without overthinking efforts, according to Addis Insight.

Peak XV partner Arnav Sahu said the product is the “next generation of AI startups.” With their investment, Better Auth is the firm’s first direct investment from an African founder. “We first heard about the product from numerous startups we’ve worked with,” Sahu, who is a former principal at Y Combinator, said.

“Their auth product has seen phenomenal adoption among the next generation of AI startups.”

As a recent graduate of YC’s spring batch of startups, Engida is still thinking of ways to improve the free app. With Better Auth being the third Ethiopian startup to pass through the accelerator, the developer is focusing on ways to improve its core features and implement a paid enterprise infrastructure to plug into the open-source base. He also wants to scale the startup without getting rid of the community-built feel of the product. Building a team is also on the radar, as Engida is currently writing most of the code himself. “Building this feels important not just because people love the product, but because of what it represents,” he said.

“There aren’t many Ethiopian founders building global products. For many, it feels almost impossible. So seeing that traction gives hope for other people to try to be more ambitious.”

by Kandiss Edwards

June 27, 2025

Louisiana’s Public School Ten Commandment Law Struck Down In Appellate Court

The ruling from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals came only days after the bill was signed into law.

A federal appeals court has temporarily blocked a new Louisiana law that mandated the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms.

The ruling from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals came only days after the bill was signed into law, NBC reported. The law, enacted by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, required posters of the Ten Commandments to be sized at least 11 inches by 14 inches. Public K-12 classrooms, as well as state-funded universities, were mandated to “prominently” display the images.

Critics, including organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom From Religion Foundation, quickly filed suit. They argue that the law breaches the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits the government from establishing or favoring a religion. This legal challenge argues that requiring religious texts in public schools constitutes state endorsement of religion, a concept long deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

Supporters of the law, however, assert that the Ten Commandments are not solely a religious text but possess historical importance and serve as a foundation for American law. They view the displays as a means of educating students on historical legal principles. Despite these arguments, the appeals court’s decision to issue a stay means the law cannot be enforced while the case navigates the judicial system.

This legal dispute is drawing national attention and fueling the debate over the separation of church and state in public education. Similar attempts to introduce religious displays or instruction in public schools in other states have often met with legal obstacles.

The temporary halt from the 5th Circuit Court is just the beginning. Louisiana faces an uphill battle in implementing the law, as the judiciary continues to uphold precedents that protect religious freedom and prevent government-mandated religious practices in public institutions.

Pharrell Williams, Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo,

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 27, 2025

The Neptunes’ Iconic Label, Star Trak, Makes A Return

The imprint, started by Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo, and Rob Walker, is back in business.

Star Trak, the label co-founded by Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo, and Rob Walker, has been revived through a partnership with Create Music Group.

The label, once home to artists like Kelis, Clipse, Robin Thicke, Snoop Dogg, Teyana Taylor, and N.E.R.D. (which featured Hugo and Williams), was launched in 2001 and and ended in 2015.

We are excited to announce our new joint venture with Star Trak Entertainment 🔥 Welcome to the Create Fam! https://t.co/zzu8ohlAlg pic.twitter.com/3i2hAM4Xy2

— Create Music Group (@createmusic) June 18, 2025

“This isn’t just about bringing Star Trak back,” said Walker in a written statement. “It’s about building a new chapter rooted in where we’ve been and built for where we’re headed. The energy and vision that helped shape a generation is entering a new era. With Create as our partner, we’re giving artists the space to move differently, think bigger, and tap into an ecosystem of brands and collaborators that Star Trak has cultivated over the years.”

Create Music Group will provide worldwide distribution, technology, and marketing services to the label. The label previously had distribution deals with Arista Records and Virgin Records before joining Interscope Geffen A&M Records.

“We are honored to partner with Rob as he kicks off the next chapter of Star Trak,” said Kyle Bartelman, director of global corporate development and M&A at Create Music Group. “Rob’s creative vision and industry experience will uniquely position our artists for success with their music and beyond. We’re excited to have Star Trak join the CMG family, and we can’t wait to support Rob and the next wave of Star Trak talent.”

There was no mention of Pharrell or Hugo being involved this time around, but Walker did tell Variety that it was the “Happy” producer’s idea to bring Star Trak back. He also stated that there may be some reissues in the future, as well as a chance to showcase some unreleased material.

“Since it was [Pharrell’s] idea for me to rebirth this thing and put it out there, it’s wide open for us to figure out some special, cool concepts or ideas that we could bring some of that old stuff back that people love,” Walker told the media outlet. “Like the prequel mixtape he did for his Clones album, that was never fully released. There’s opportunities for stuff like that that could be cool for us to release and put out.”

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 27, 2025

New Orleans Mayor Sued For Continuous Trash Dispute In Famous French Quarter Neighborhood

The council has worked to strip Cantrell of her contracting power at the state level.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is facing litigation due to an ongoing trash dispute that’s stinking things up, WDSU reports.

Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar owner Daniel Conwill and resident Marina Costopoulos filed a civil suit against Cantrell, accusing the mayor of intentionally awarding a trash contract to Henry Consulting for the historic neighborhood. As a result, Conwill and Costopoulos feel the trash pickups will be worse.

Residents and business owners are currently with the services of IV Waste, which holds an emergency contract for trash services. Signs have been posted in support of the firm, saying the French Quarter appears cleaner than ever with their services. They even touched on loving the lemon-scented spray the firm uses that keeps the streets smelling fresh.

“Mr. Conwill and Felix’s are completely satisfied with the services that Felix’s currently receives from IV Waste,” attorney Leonard Levenson representing Conwill and Costopoulos wrote in the lawsuit, according to NOLA. “IV Waste’s services further help increase the number of Felix’s guests by making the area surrounding his restaurant more appealing.”

Conwill and Costopoulos argue that Cantrell’s $73 million deal with Henry Consulting is invalid since it hasn’t been approved or voted on by the city council. Members challenged the bid, citing a 2022 ordinance that permitted the council to have approval authority over some professional service contracts that have a value of over $1 million.

The council has worked to strip Cantrell of her contracting power at the state level. Sen. Jimmy Harris is seeking to let the 13-member French Quarter Management District board enter into emergency contracts in the French Quarter after Gov. Jeff Landry signed a bill into law earlier this month.

The new lawsuit is one of two that the mayor and the city have been hit with in correlation to the trash controversy. The other involves IV Waste, Richards Disposal, and Henry Consulting. With Henry Consulting expected to take over the contract Aug. 1 in addition to Richards providing trash services, resentment from property owners has been brewing due to having an issue with the city’s failure to maintain trash services after Hurricane Ida in 2021.

Richards was one of two main vendors that handled garbage hauling during the hurricane.

In the meantime, IV Waste owner and developer Sidney Torres IV said the company is overwhelmed with support and hopes things pan out.

“It’s our hope that the mayor and her administration lets the process play out like originally planned,” Torres said. “We will continue to give the best service until whatever day is our last day.”