Hip-Hop books, national Hiphop month
Zab Judah, and Irv Gotti during Kevin Liles' release celebration for "Make It Happen: The Hip-Hop Guide To Success" at Firmenich in New York City. (Photo: Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
by Ahsan Washington

August 11, 2026

10 Hip-Hop Books To Celebrate Hip-Hop’s Birthday

We’re still shouting happy birthday to Hip-Hop!

BLACK ENTERPRISE is shouting happy birthday to Hip-Hop! Having turned 53 on Aug. 12, Hip-Hop culture has changed the lives of many people since its birth back in 1973. The evolution of Hip-Hop has embodied art, DJ’ing, dance, fashion, hair, jewelry, language, lyricism, music and guess what else—literature ..books.

BE salutes Hip-Hop books for penetrating the literary space. Here are 10 books from Hip-Hop artists who tell their story and share their perspective not heard through music. 

1.) From Pieces to Weight: Once Upon a Time in Southside Queens


This memoir, written by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson with Kris Ex, is a tale of how 50 Cent navigated his difficult childhood as a youth: dealing with the murder of his mother; hustling in the streets to survive; being shot nine times and achieving the American dream. 

BUY HERE

2.) The Wu-Tang Manual 


The Wu-Tang Manual by Robert Diggs, otherwise known as RZA, and Chris Norris. The Wu-Tang Manual is made up of 4 books that break down all things Wu-Tang Clan—from information about the nine original members, Wu-Slang, and the philosophies and personalities that make the Wu-Tang Clan what it is. If you’re heavy into Wu culture, this book is for you.  

 BUY HERE

3.) Sweat The Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius


Rakim Allah’s book is half a memoir and the other half is a writing guide. In this book he details who and what influenced him in his youth (jazz and John Coltrane) while highlighting the reason he is hailed as the god MC. 

BUY HERE

4.) Hurricanes


Rick Ross and Neil Martinez-Belkin wrote this memoir about Ross’ upbringing in South Beach Miami during the War On Drugs era, which covers his time as a high school football player, dope boy hustler, and correctional officer. Ross chronicles the making of his debut hit song “Hustlin’” to having a large deal with Def Jam records. This read will give you insight to Rick Ross’ experiences and inspirations

BUY HERE

5.) Decoded


Decoded, written by rap icon and business mogul Shawn Corey Carter (widely known as Jay-Z,) is a one of a kind memoir that shows the worlds Jay-Z has maneuvered. Beyoncé’s other half tells his story while highlighting the hip-hop art form and culture by deconstructing his lyrics and giving readers a deeper dive into his journey as a artist. 

  BUY HERE

6.) E. A. R. L. The Autobiography of DMX  


The Autobiography of DMX, by the late Earl Simmons and Smoky D. Fontaine, shares X’s upbringing in the streets of Yonkers, New York. Readers learn how DMX overcame struggles involving neglect, physical abuse, drug abuse and jail time. The book reveals DMX’s ability to never give up on his dreams, finding his passion for hip-hop and releasing a no. 1 album four times in a row. X’s story literally shows that if you slip and fall you can still get up.

BUY HERE

7.) Cross The Tracks


Torrence Hatch Jr., the controversial rapper known as Boosie Badazz, gives readers the details of growing up in Baton Rouge and being a local star at the age of 14, and becoming one of the most prominent rappers in the South. Boosie talks about survival, having a second chance at life, and beating the odds after facing death row and ultimately gaining freedom.

BUY HERE

8.) Vibrate Higher


Vibrate Higher is a rap tale written by Talib Kweli that shares his upbringing in Brooklyn, New York. Kweli writes about what hip-hop has done for his life and how the culture impacts life socially, politically, and creatively.  

BUY HERE

9.) The Autobiography of Gucci Mane


The Autobiography of Gucci Man was written with the help of Neil Martinez-Belkin. Gucci Mane began writing this story while locked in federal prison. Gucci highlights the ups and downs of his life and career, and leans into growing up in poverty, his father’s abandonment, jail time, and how all these shaped him. He shares a bit about the infamous ice cream tattoo and how his career has evolved over time. 

BUY HERE

10.) Ladies First: Revelations of a Strong Woman


Dana Owens, our beloved Queen Latifah, wrote an autobiography that is an inspiration to women. Queen Latifah details growing up in Newark, New Jersey, and the difficult decisions she had to make dealing with sex, drugs, depression. The award-winning hip-hop artist shares what it means to be confident and independent, and what life was like being the first female solo rap artist to get a major record deal at 19-years-old. 

 BUY HERE

RELATED CONTENT: KRS-One Talks 50 Years Of Hip-Hop 

Diddy, Jay Z, hip-hop, hustle, hustling
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 25: Sean Combs and Jay-Z attend 2020 Roc Nation THE BRUNCH on January 25, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Roc Nation)
by Ahsan Washington

August 11, 2026

Hustle & Flow: 15 Hip-Hop Songs That Spark Hustling Spirit

The desire for financial wealth is something many people can relate to.

Hip-hop is now 53-years-old. Since the beginning of hip-hop culture, rap artists’ lyrics have always touched on making something out of nothing, making a dollar out of 15 cents, and manifesting—often by any means necessary—for a better life and lifestyle than the one they’ve known.

The desire for financial wealth is something many people can relate to. The want for financial stability and the ambition to achieve it is a common narrative across many businesses and industries, including hip-hop. BLACK ENTERPRISE has selected 15 hip-hop songs that ignite the hustle spirit and serve as motivation to make many of us “get up, get out, and get something.”



1) Dollar And A Dream 3 | J – Cole

In 2011, Jermaine Cole—better known by his stage name J. Cole—had “a dollar and a dream.” In the song that became a classic, Cole rapped about being in a place where your back is against the wall and striving toward success. The North Carolina rapper gave a pep talk to listeners who could relate to the ebb and flow of chasing one’s dream. 


2) Juicy | Notorious B. I. G.

This debut single was made by the late great Christopher Wallace, also known as Biggie Smalls and better known as Notorious B. I. G. The Brooklyn-bred rapper raps about his upbringing and passion for hip-hop. This rags-to-riches tale highlights his ascension and success through hustling his lyricism: “Now I’m in the limelight ’cause I rhyme tight,” Biggie rapped. He emphasized satisfaction with the outcome of his grind, “Damn right I like the life I live ’cause I went from negative to positive.” 



3) Hustler Musik | Lil Wayne

Hustler Musik by Dwayne Carter Jr., professionally known as Lil’ Wayne, embodies the hip-hop hustler vibe and spirit of the mid-2000s when Wayne was grinding to become the megastar he is today:

“Money is the motivation, facing the avenue, back touching the wall” describes the pressure to make money metaphorically and literally. 


4) I Get Money | 50 Cent 

South Jamaica Queens’ very own Curtis Jackson, known as 50 Cent, lyrically spotlights his savvy hip-hop hustle moves on this track: “I took quarter-water sold it in bottles for 2 bucks. Coca-Cola came and bought it for billions what the f—k?”

50 Cent also raps about how his hustle provided his lavish lifestyle. The infectious hook borrowed from Milk D, “I get money- money I got” is quite motivating. 

5) F—k Up Some Commas | Future

F*ck Up Some Commas made by Atlanta’s Nayvadius Wilburn, better known as Future. The title alone motivates hustle, as he raps about stacking that money: “40 thou’ to 100 thou’ 100 thou’ another 100 thou’ 300 thou’ to 500 thou’ a million lets have a money shower.” The bass and the hook make you want to boss up STAT.

6) C. R. E. A. M. | Wu Tang Clan

C. R. E. A. M. is a legendary track by the legendary hip-hop rap group the Wu-Tang Clan. Raekwon and Inspectah Deck give listeners an introspective view on struggling and getting into hustle mode:

“I grew up on the crime side, the New York Times side stayin’ alive was no jive,” Raekwon spits.

Similarly, Inspectah Deck raps, “It’s been 22 long, hard years, i’m still struggling, survival got me buggin.” Method man is on the song’s chorus encouraging hustlers’ ambition: “Cash rules everything around me—C. R. E. A. M.—get the money dollar dollar bill y’all.”

7) Hustlin’ | Rick Ross

Is there even a better anthem than William “Rick Ross” Roberts’s break-out song? This joint encourages entrepreneurs to get that bag daily with its straight-to-the-point chorus, “Everyday I’m hustlin.’”

8) 1st Of The Month | Bone Thugs N Harmony

Ohio’s Bone Thugs N Harmony created the perfect song to spark that hustling initiative. The first of the month is known nationally as bill day. Bone Thugs N Harmony harmonizes on the chorus encouraging folks to “Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up (it’s the first of the month). So get up, get up, get up, get up, get up (so cash your checks and come up).” This hit makes folks want to get money to take care of their responsibilities.

9) Rubber Band Man | T. I.

Rubber band Man, made by Atlanta’s self-proclaimed king, Clifford Harris Jr., affectionately known as T. I. or Tip, raps about keeping money in his pocket and about his dedication to his hip-hop hustle, “Got the mind and the muscle stay down on his grind put the crown on the hustle/ Hey, I could show ya how to juggle anything and make it double.”


10) Can’t Knock The Hustle| Jay-Z 

Can’t Knock The Hustle by the icon Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter. Beyoncé’s other half celebrates his hustle spirit as he chronicles his success with full flex, “Yo, I’m making short-term goals, when the weather folds, just put away the leathers and put ice on the gold.”

11) And Then What| Young Jeezy

“And Then What” by Jay Wayne Jenkins, better known as Young Jeezy, is a hip-hop call-and-response bop between the Georgia-born rapper and New Orleans producer Mannie Fresh: “First I’m gone stack my flo,’ then I’m gone stack some mo.” Jeezy drops morning mirror motivation to get your money and stack it. 

12) Duffle Bag Boy| Playaz Circle


Duffle Bag Boy includes Playaz Circle and Lil’ Wayne on a track that still sparks the hustler’s spirit today. Lil’ Wayne motivates on the song’s hook by rapping, “If i don’t do nothing I’mma ball, i’m countin’ all day like a clock on the wall, now go and get your money little duffle bag boy.” Tity Boi, now 2Chainz, flexes and raps about the spoils of hustling: “Walk into the Gucci store, honey i’m home.” while Dolla Boy raps about being a boss in his hip-hop hustle, “Ain’t nothing to a boss, we balling when they see us.” 



13) Money Trees| Kendrick Lamar

“Money Trees” by Compton’s Kendrick Lamar is a relatable and inspiring song that details his upbringing while showing the reality and correlation between gangbanging, crime, and poverty. Lamar understands money can change his life. The West Coast hip-hop artist raps, “And I been hustling all day, this-a-way, that-a-way. Through canals and alleyways, just to say Money trees is the perfect place for shade and that’s just how I feel.”

14) It’s All About The Benjamins | Puff Daddy 

The iconic line that triggers this money-making turn-up is prompted by Puff’s questions “What you wanna do? Wanna be ballers? Shot callers?” It’s All About The Benjamins features Notorious B. I. G., The Lox, and Lil Kim. Puff lays down lyrics about the lavish life and ultimately tells us why he hustles so hard and why we should too.

15) Major | Young Dolph

“Major” by the late Adolph Thornton Jr., better known as Young Dolph, is another hustler’s anthem. Young Dolph motivates people that come from the bottom, rapping, “Millions on the table, that’s major, I turned dirt into diamonds, that’s major.”

Digging these tracks? Download BLACK ENTERPRISE Hustle & Flow Playlist

RELATED CONTENT: 7 Hip Hop Songs That Celebrate Cannabis Culture

retirement, savings, social security, financial planning
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-man-counting-money-6694530/
by Sidnee Michelle

August 11, 2026

You’re Not Ready For Retirement If These Financial Elements Exists

Retirement readiness requires more than reaching a certain age.

Leaving the workforce may be the goal, but retirement without a strong financial plan could put years of savings — and long-term financial security — at risk, Investopedia reports.

The oulet’s analysis identified warning signs that workers may not be ready to retire, including excessive debt, inadequate planning, and uncertainty about how much income they will have once regular paychecks stop.

Struggling to cover current bills is one major red flag. Retirees may need about 75% of their preretirement income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, with money potentially coming from Social Security, pensions, 401(k) plans, individual retirement accounts, and other savings.

Carrying significant debt is another concern. David Walters, a certified financial planner with Palisades Hudson Financial Group, told the outlet that reducing or eliminating credit card balances and auto loans before retirement can ease pressure on savings. Paying off a mortgage or downsizing may also make sense depending on a person’s circumstances.

Workers should also have a plan for major future expenses, including home repairs and vehicle purchases, and know approximately how much they will receive from Social Security. Claiming Social Security at age 62 can result in monthly benefits 30% lower than waiting until full retirement age, according to the Social Security Administration.

A lack of monthly and long-term financial plans are two additional warning signs. Prospective retirees should understand their expected expenses, taxes, and healthcare costs, along with how much they can withdraw from savings without exhausting their money.

Inflation also matters. Rising prices can erode purchasing power over a retirement that could span 30 years or longer, making an investment strategy designed to keep pace with inflation increasingly important.

Failing to periodically rebalance an investment portfolio can create additional risk as retirement approaches. A diversified portfolio can help retirees balance income generation, capital preservation, and exposure to market volatility.

The final two warning signs aren’t strictly financial. Workers who are anxious about leaving their careers or who still genuinely enjoy their jobs may want to reconsider their timing.

Ultimately, retirement readiness requires more than reaching a certain age. Understanding debt, expenses, income, investments, and life after work can help determine whether leaving the workforce is financially sustainable.

RELATED CONTENT: These States May Help Retirees Keep Most Of Their Retirement Income

Hip Hop, symphony,, Nas, the Bronx
Images: C’est La Zee for The Hip Hop Museum
by Ahsan Washington

August 11, 2026

7 Rappers Who Took Hip-Hop To The Symphony Hall

Hip-hop is more than beats and bravado.

Hip-hop is more than beats and bravado. It is a cultural force that can change any stage it touches. As our beloved Hip-Hop turns 53-years old, we can’t deny the evolution or the great heights rappers have taken it. Shout outs to the pioneers like Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, Doug E. Fresh, Run DMC, LL COOL J and Rakim for laying the foundation. That groundwork made it possible for the contemporary leaders of the new school to take reigns and lift hip-hop in a whole new stratosphere.

Over the years, a growing group of artists has moved from the studio to the concert hall. Artists have shown that storytelling and orchestral music are not opposites but natural partners. From trap pioneers to lyrical architects, artists are changing how rap sounds in elevated spaces. We highlight the rappers who took hip-hop to symphony halls.

Nas

The Queensbridge, New York, rapper Nas performed his iconic album “Illmatic” with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the impactful album. The musical arrangement used orchestral instruments to enhance both the emotional power and musical complexity of his narrative delivery.

Kendrick Lamar

The multi-platinum rapper Kendrick Lamar performed several tracks from his album “To Pimp a Butterfly” with the National Symphony. The performance presented his politically charged jazz-infused hip-hop music to a broader audience at the Kennedy Center on Oct. 20, 2015, demonstrating the orchestral elements of Lamar’s award-winning album and its place in contemporary American music.

Rick Ross

Rick Ross performed as the main artist at Red Bull Symphonic at Atlanta Symphony Hall back in November 2022. The performance at the Woodruff Art Center brought together Rick Ross and Orchestra Noir to create new versions of his songs, merging hip-hop with classical music while celebrating Black achievement in both genres.

Jeezy

On Jan. 27, the Atlanta Symphony Hall hosted Jeezy, who performed as part of a new concert series that unites hip-hop artists with orchestral musicians. The series works to connect urban audiences with orchestral venues while using classical instruments to enhance trap music.

Wyclef Jean

Wyclef Jean, the Haitian-American rapper and producer who co-founded Fugees, organized the Night of Symphonic Hip-Hop, which brought him to perform with orchestras at multiple concert halls. The series amplifies hip-hop through orchestral performances while honoring its musical depth against classical music traditions.

Killer Mike

Killer Mike performed with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 2024, as a full-length original orchestral concert. The concert used orchestral arrangements to transform the Atlanta artist’s music into a deeper musical experience, which showcased Black artistic presence in classical music venues.

RZA (Wu-Tang Clan)

RZA, who founded the Wu-Tang Clan and works as a producer and composer, created “A Ballet Through Mud,” which the Colorado Symphony Orchestra performed as a complete orchestral ballet score. RZA reworked the musical arrangement of “The 36th Chamber of Shaolin.” The world premiere took place in 2023. Through spoken word, orchestral elements, and ballet, RZA brings his stories to life. 

RELATED CONTENT: Clipse Becomes First Rappers To Perform At The Vatican

nigeria passport, eastern caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Schengen area, border security, European Union
photo credit: pexels
by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

Wealthy Nigerians Could Lose Caribbean Visa And Passport Shortcut To Europe

Citizenship-by-investment programs effectively allow qualifying investors to obtain a second passport.

Wealthy Nigerians who use Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs to expand their global mobility could lose a key benefit as the European Union moves to tighten its visa policies, Legit reports.

The EU is increasing pressure on Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia over programs that allow foreign investors to obtain citizenship in exchange for qualifying investments.

According to the outlet, the Caribbean nations could risk losing visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen area if concerns surrounding the programs are not addressed by June 2028.

The potential changes could have significant implications for affluent Nigerians seeking greater international mobility. Nigerian passport holders generally face visa requirements when traveling to the Schengen area, while citizens of the five Caribbean nations can travel there without a visa for short stays.

Citizenship-by-investment programs effectively allow qualifying investors to obtain a second passport, giving some applicants access to countries that would otherwise require them to secure visas before traveling.

European officials have raised concerns that the programs could allow nationals of countries subject to EU visa requirements to circumvent the traditional visa process after acquiring Caribbean citizenship.

A December 2025 European Commission report estimated that the five Eastern Caribbean nations had collectively issued about 107,000 passports through their investor citizenship programs. The countries have adopted reforms, including a $200,000 minimum investment threshold and strengthened screening requirements, but European officials have continued to raise security concerns.

Nigerians are among those who have used the programs. Grenada reported that Nigerians were its second-largest group of successful applicants in 2024, with 82 receiving citizenship through its program, according to the outlet.

Pressure from Europe also presents an economic challenge for Caribbean governments that have become reliant on revenue generated by foreign investors.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has said eliminating his country’s citizenship-by-investment program could cost the nation more than $100 million annually, the outlet reported. Browne has argued that the revenue supports infrastructure and other public services.

Caribbean governments now face mounting pressure to reform their programs while protecting both a lucrative source of investment and visa-free European access, one of the benefits that has helped make their passports attractive to wealthy foreign nationals.

RELATED CONTENT: Nigeria Bans Honorary Degree Recipients From Using ‘Dr.’ Title Amid Fraud Crackdown

housing market, affordability,
(Photo: Kindel Media/Pexels)
by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

Americans Still Need Nearly $110K To Afford The Typical Home

Typical households still earn about $22,200 less than what is needed.

Americans still need to earn nearly $110,000 a year to comfortably afford the typical home for sale, highlighting the persistent affordability challenges facing prospective buyers despite modest improvements in the housing market, USA Today reports.

According to a Redfin analysis, a household needed an annual income of $109,796 in June 2026 to purchase a median-priced U.S. home while spending no more than 30% of its income on housing costs. The figure is just 0.5% below the record-high $110,382 reported a year earlier, suggesting homebuying costs have largely stabilized after several years of worsening affordability.

Household earnings have continued to climb, helping narrow the affordability gap. Redfin estimated the median U.S. household earned $87,599 in June, a 4% increase from the previous year, while the median home sale price rose 2.2%. Mortgage rates also eased slightly but remained in the mid-6% range, continuing to keep monthly borrowing costs elevated.

Even with rising incomes, the typical household still earns about $22,200 less than what is needed to comfortably purchase a median-priced home. That shortfall has improved from roughly $26,100 a year ago and nearly $28,900 two years earlier, but it continues to price many Americans—particularly first-time buyers—out of the market.

“The earnings needed to buy a house have stabilized after several years of deterioration, but that doesn’t mean homes are affordable to the average American,” Redfin Senior Economist Yingqi Xu said. Xu added that buyers have gained negotiating power in many parts of the country as inventory has increased, creating a more favorable market for shoppers. Still, many households remain unable to meet the income needed to purchase a home without stretching their finances.

Redfin defines an affordable home as one in which a buyer making a 15% down payment spends no more than 30% of their monthly income on mortgage payments, property taxes, and other housing-related expenses.

Based on that benchmark, buyers would need to devote 37.6% of their income to purchase the median-priced home, down from 39.3% a year earlier.

The analysis also found that 34.2% of homes listed for sale in June were affordable for households earning the national median income, up from 30.5% a year earlier. However, affordability remains well below pre-2022 levels, when more than half of homes on the market were within reach of the typical household.

Among the 46 major metropolitan areas Redfin examined, affordability improved in 24 markets. Seattle recorded the largest improvement as declining home prices reduced the income needed to purchase the typical home, while San Jose and Portland also posted notable gains.

Despite those improvements, many high-cost markets remain financially out of reach. San Francisco remained the nation’s least affordable major metro area, where buyers would need an annual income of $453,205 to afford the typical home. Redfin found that only St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh had median household incomes that exceeded the income required to purchase a typical home in their local markets.

RELATED CONTENT: Michigan Governor Signs Law Preventing Landlords From Rejecting Renters Over Source Of Income

aging, Black women, AARP, representation
Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO, AARP
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

August 10, 2026

Seen, Heard, Remembered: Bridges That Will Shape The Future Of Black Women In Film And TV

Black actresses are powering major projects and shaping cultural conversations in real time.

Written By Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO, AARP

We’re seeing a bit of a plot twist in movies and TV this year — one that places Black women at the center of cultural and commercial momentum. From prestige dramas like Euphoria to blockbusters like The Odyssey, Black actresses are powering major projects and shaping cultural conversations in real time. They’re part of a wider wave of Black talent redefining the industry. Black men also lead some of the year’s most celebrated work, from LaKeith Stanfield in I Love Boosters to Emmy nominee Sterling K. Brown in Paradise. But new AARP research finds that Black women are the key drivers of a representation shift.

A national AARP survey of 1,801 Black adults 18+ found that they are among the industry’s most engaged viewers. Older Black women in particular shape how aging is perceived on screen: nearly all (95%) of those surveyed say representation of Black women 50+ is important. A similar percentage (96%) say it’s important to show multiple generations together. And 54% say seeing Black women 50+ on screen has made them feel more positive about aging, a fact that reflects an even broader audience demand. 

Yet even now, the research points to significant untapped potential: only a quarter of the viewing audience believe that today’s portrayal of Black women is very accurate. For studios and creators, that represents a significant business opportunity among Black consumers, a group with an estimated $2 trillion in buying power according to Nielsen.

Centering Black Women

I’ve written before about the impact of Viola Davis, the highest grossing Black film actress in history, and Angela Bassett, who is among the highest paid actresses on TV. This year, Zendaya is headlining multiple 2026 tentpoles — The Drama, The Odyssey, Spider‑Man: Brand New Day, Dune: Part Three, and the long‑awaited return of Euphoria — a slate that places a young Black woman at the center of many of the industry’s most anticipated releases. 

Mid‑year projects continue this trajectory. Is God Is brings a searing family drama led by Kara Young and Mallori Johnson, with Vivica A. Fox anchoring the generational storyline and Janelle Monáe rounding out the ensemble. I Love Boosters offers a sci‑fi satire powered by Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, and Taylour Paige. You, Me & Tuscany places Halle Bailey at the center of a breezy romance about reinvention and unexpected love. And in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Lupita Nyong’o takes on dual roles as Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra, adding depth and complexity to one of the year’s most ambitious films.

All of these reflect our findings that Black adults want to see more friendship, romance, and heroic journeys — especially women, 68% of whom favor love and romance. Taken together, these compelling projects signal real progress. 

But AARP’s research shows that the greatest opportunities still lie ahead, especially when it comes to how Black women are portrayed, the stories they’re given, and the value the industry places on their presence.

The Five Bridges We Must Build

Black audiences are telling us what inspires them, what feels missing, and what they want to see more of, particularly when it comes to Black women 50 and older. Their responses point to five bridges the industry has yet to build and cross.

The Authenticity Bridge. Black audiences want portrayals that feel true. Authenticity would meet overwhelming demand and deepen cultural trust.

The Storyline Bridge. Viewers want richer narratives — more friendship, romance, and heroic journeys. Expanding storylines beyond stereotypes would unlock deeper emotional resonance.

The Generational Bridge. Intergenerational storytelling would broaden audience reach. Showing characters of different ages together reflects how families and communities actually live, and creates space for richer, more layered narratives capable of connecting generations.

The Influence Bridge. Older Black women already shape how aging is perceived. Centering their stories reflects the influence they have in their communities and expands audiences’ perceptions of what aging can look like.

The Economic Bridge. Women 50+ are a driving force within the 50‑plus audience, a group that spends more than $10 billion annually on movies and streaming, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) published by AARP. 

The momentum is here. The audience is here. The opportunity is here. When storytellers portray Black women with intention and complexity, audiences feel more inspired, more connected, more positive. Our culture needs it, and is more than ready for it. The proof is at the box office, and in the bottom line. 

RELATED CONTENT: A CEO Of Vision And Virtue 

Rajah Caruth, NASCAR, Twenty Four Foundation, GM Motorsports, Built Different: The STEM Accelerator
photo credit: wikkimedia
by Edwian Stokes

August 10, 2026

‘Built Different’ STEM Accelerator Leverages Motorsports To Advance Workforce Development for Black Youth

The Twenty Four Foundation, GM Motorsports, and Clayton County partnered to launch an AI and engineering initiative inspired by NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth.

The Twenty Four Foundation, with GM Motorsports and local government leaders, launched “Built Different: The STEM Accelerator,” a workforce development initiative connecting underserved youth to careers in engineering, artificial intelligence, technology, and data science through professional motorsports.

Developed by Seven & Grace with GM Motorsports, the program launches in Atlanta and Richmond, Virginia, through local nonprofit partners. In Georgia, the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity leads a six-week summer cohort for 10 local students, combining classroom instruction with practical experience. Students are selected through an open application process where families apply via their school, regional community centers, or the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity website. Applicants must show interest in STEM fields and commit to the full program. Details and deadlines are shared with schools and community organizations each spring.

Driving Financial Empowerment Through High-Tech Careers

Built Different is a strategic platform for early workforce development and financial empowerment. High-growth technical sectors like artificial intelligence, motorsports engineering, and data analytics have presented barriers for African Americans. By connecting Black youth with corporate engineers and advanced technology, the program creates sustainable pathways into high-earning technical careers.

NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth serves as this effort’s primary proof of concept. An Atlanta native, Caruth transformed virtual sim racing on iRacing into a professional career as a NASCAR national series winner through NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program. His journey forms the foundation of the program’s flagship curriculum, “How STEM Leads to Speed: Racing with Rajah.”

The curriculum offers four modules for middle school students and an expanded five-module track for high school and college students. Courses are taught by motorsports professionals, including General Motors software engineers, pit crew tire specialists, and NASCAR graphic designers.

Cutting-Edge Tools and National Expansion

Students use advanced industry technology. GM Motorsports provides platforms used in elite competition, such as the Pit Rho machine-learning strategy platform and Race Vehicle Simulation software. Microsoft supplies AI tools, including Copilot and Designer, giving participants hands-on experience with the software that supports Caruth’s racing operations.

“This program shows that STEM is more than classroom subjects,” said Takiyah J. Thomas, administrator of the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity. “It is the engine behind innovation, technology, and many career opportunities.” Clayton County, the only county government in Georgia with a dedicated Office of Digital Equity, aims to prepare residents for emerging technology careers.

Each partner organization receives a comprehensive STEM toolkit for year-round instruction alongside classroom learning. Students also join VIP race weekend experiences. Atlanta participants visited the EchoPark Speedway during the Quaker State 400 (July 11 and 12), and Richmond students will attend the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway on Aug 14 and 15.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of motorsports is the opportunity to share the technologies, engineering practices, and lessons learned from competition with broader communities,” said TaiJaune Robinson, engineering business manager at GM Motorsports. “Through programs like this, we can help students better understand how innovation happens, how teams solve complex challenges under pressure, and how STEM skills can create opportunities both within motorsports and across the automotive industry.”

According to release details, plans are in progress to expand Built Different into additional NASCAR markets nationwide beginning in 2027. The Twenty Four Foundation is seeking corporate, philanthropic, and community partners to sponsor future student cohorts and provide long-term financial empowerment for youth across the country.

RELATED CONTENT: BLACK ENTERPRISE Speaks To Rajah Caruth After Historic NASCAR Win

IRS,First Time Abate, Automatic Exemption from Penalty program
Photo by Karolina Grabowska/Pexels)
by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

IRS Rolls Out Automatic Tax Penalty Relief For Small Businesses

The Automatic Exemption from Penalty program, or AEP, is expected to launch this summer, and replace the agency's First Time Abate process.

The IRS is introducing an automatic penalty-relief program that could provide financial relief to eligible small businesses that miss certain tax deadlines despite a history of compliance, Forbes reports.

The Automatic Exemption from Penalty program, or AEP, is expected to launch later this summer and replace the agency’s First Time Abate process, according to the outlet. The program will apply beginning with the 2025 tax period and 2026 quarterly returns, as well as future tax periods.

The change comes as many small-business owners operate with limited financial reserves. A survey found that 39% of small-business owners had less than one month of operating expenses on hand. Another 51.3% said they would tap emergency reserves within 48 hours to make payroll before paying upcoming taxes or covering an unexpected large order.

Such limited reserves can leave businesses vulnerable when natural disasters, illnesses, or other emergencies disrupt operations and make it difficult to meet tax obligations.

Under the IRS’ First Time Abate process, eligible taxpayers generally had to request penalty relief. AEP will instead automatically provide relief from certain failure-to-file, failure-to-pay, and failure-to-deposit penalties to taxpayers who meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

Taxpayers generally must have filed required returns and paid their taxes on time for the previous three years, or 12 consecutive quarters for quarterly filers. Businesses face an additional requirement: The IRS cannot have waived a failure-to-deposit penalty four or more times during the previous three years or 12 consecutive quarters.

When AEP applies, the IRS will send the taxpayer a letter explaining that an otherwise applicable penalty was not assessed because of the taxpayer’s compliance history. Those who believe they qualified but did not receive relief can contact the IRS.

The program does not eliminate the underlying tax obligation. Businesses must still pay any unpaid taxes, interest, and penalties not covered by AEP.

For small-business owners facing temporary financial disruptions, the new system could make penalty relief more accessible by applying it automatically to eligible taxpayers rather than requiring them to request it.

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Lakers, Metta world peace, cal state
Photo credit: Lakers vs Heat, Christmas Day, 2010. Bridget Samuels
by Edwian Stokes

August 10, 2026

NBA Champs Metta World Peace And Michael Cooper Take Leadership Roles At Cal State LA

Two former Los Angeles Lakers champions will boost the university’s Division II athletics brand.

California State University, Los Angeles has strengthened its athletic department by appointing former Lakers forward Metta World Peace as associate head coach for women’s basketball. He joins Michael Cooper, who now leads the men’s basketball program as head coach.

The addition of these championship-caliber leaders at Cal State LA sets a standard for institutional advancement. By attracting top professional talent, the university aims to strengthen student-athlete leadership, expand corporate partnerships, and increase donor engagement in East Los Angeles.

Executive Leadership On and Off the Court

World Peace, formerly Ron Artest, was introduced in a joint Instagram announcement on July 18 by the university and coach. A key contributor to the Lakers’ 2010 NBA championship, he brings professional skill and a commitment to mental health advocacy to a Golden Eagles team that finished 24-7 last season and won the California Collegiate Athletic Association tournament.

“From Queensbridge, New York to Los Angeles, CA. From NBA Champion to CCAA Tournament Champion. Moment of silence for the champions,” World Peace stated in the post, stressing his journey and devotion to high-level performance.

World Peace joins head coach Torino Johnson’s staff after serving as a player development coach for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League, according to Yahoo Sports. His appointment strengthens the women’s program and supports recruiting top student-athletes.

On the men’s side, Cooper was promoted to head coach on April 8 after serving as associate head coach since the 2023-2024 season. A five-time NBA champion and three-time champion head coach in the WNBA and G League, Cooper views his role as an opportunity to develop future leaders on and off the court.

“Our mission at Cal State LA is to build leaders, build belief, and show what Cal State LA stands for,” Cooper said during his introductory press conference, according to official coverage from Cal State LA Athletics. “Cal State LA represents the heart of this great city with its hard-working, diverse, and ambitious student-athletes. We’re going to build a program that will make the university proud of us.”

Building Brand Equity and Community Impact

Hiring prominent figures like Cooper and World Peace supports the university’s long-term fundraising and brand-building efforts. At the press conference, when former Lakers teammate A.C. Green asked how alumni and supporters could help, Cooper responded simply: “Open your pocketbook.”

“We need to raise money for our programs,” Cooper said, outlining his organizational priorities in statements tracked by X Corp media reports. “We need to get in the community and build relationships, get more fans in the stands, and create more awareness for Cal State LA.”

Cal State LA President Berenecea Johnson Eanes emphasized that Cooper’s strong community ties bring authentic executive leadership to the student body. Cooper’s operational approach is based on core principles he calls the “Five D’s”: determination, dedication, desire, discipline, and decision-making.

“Those can apply to anything you do in your athletic endeavors,” Cooper said, “but you can make those Five D’s work for you off the court—in your everyday life, in your religious life, anything you want to be successful in.”

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