Quantcast
Channel: UPTOWN Magazine
Viewing all 6567 articles
Browse latest View live

Kanye West Teaches Fashion for Community Service

0
0

UPTOWN_kanye_west_fashion_school

Orange certainly isn’t the new black for Kanye West. He worked out a plea deal in March after beating up a heckler, who hurled the N-word at his then-fiancée, Kim Kardashian. However, you won’t find Kanye wearing a jail jumpsuit or collecting trash in haute couture à la Naomi Campbell. He found another way to captivate an audience.

Kanye showed his skills on Monday doing what he loves the most — talking, er, making a difference in the lives of the youth, at the Los Angeles Trade Technical College Monday. Kanye visited the college, which specializes in apparel design, three times in the last two months. Yesterday, he lectured on fashion designers and it lasted three hours.

Kanye’s plea deal consisted of 24 months informal probation and 250 hours community service. The newlywed rapper has been making his rounds speaking at multiple colleges.

No doubt this will make for interesting material on the rapper’s new album, which is not yet titled.


Fashion and Tech Collide with DVF Google Glass

0
0

Fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg wants to welcome you to the world through Google Glass. Von Furstenberg has teamed with Google Inc. for DVF | Made for Glass, a line of designer frames that look less futuristic and more like everyday wear. The frames accommodate prescription lenses too.

“This is really the first time fashion and technology collide,” said Isabelle Olson, designer for Google Glass.

If you have an extra $1,800 lying around, then you can snag a pair for women at Net-A-Porter. The men’s frames are available for a slightly cheaper price at $1,650 from MrPorter.com featuring bold, thin, or half-and-half frames. The DVF glasses retail for $300 more than the regular price of Google Glass.

UPTOWN_dvf_made_for_glass

Google Glass and von Furstenberg first revealed their collaboration two years ago on the runway during New York Fashion Week. Since then the two have been tweaking the design in an effort to encourage men and women to view the technology as a must have fashion accessory.

The technology giant plans to expand Google Glass beyond its current uses, online searches and photo-taking. More collaborations are slated to be announced, of course, if the DVF collaboration does well.

[Image: Net-A-Porter]

Here’s How Healthy, Fortified Cereal and Booze are the Same

0
0

total raisin bran
Who would ever think that there was a such thing as too many nutrients? Well, a recent Environmental Working Group (EWG) study has determined that that is a possibility- and it’s harmfully impacting large numbers of children, pregnant women, and senior citizens through cereal and cereal bar intake.

Almost half of American children under 8 are consuming potentially harmful amounts of vitamin A, zinc, and niacin. The common “healthy” cereals for adults such as General Mills Total Raisin Bran and Wheaties Fuel have made the list of 114 cereals found in the study with over 30-percent adult daily value of vitamin A. There is also a list of 23 cereals that the EWG determined to be excessively high in added-nutrient dosage.

So that little percentage on the side of our cereal and cereal bar boxes actually means something! For young children, especially; by allowing them to consume these products with added vitamins and nutrients they are being overexposed to vitamin levels. In other words, it’s almost as if it’s nutrient overdose! The EWG determined that too much Vitamin A may lead to liver damage (as does drinking too much alcohol) and too much zinc can negatively impact your red and white blood cells.

Cereal box label

This is important to remember when we see labels that say nutrient/vitamin-added. The companies marketing strategies tend to make consumers believe that more vitamins are a good thing, but they can also have their negative effects. They tell you the essential vitamins needed but do not say too much is a harmful.

Cereal may be an easier way for children to get their dose of vitamin A, but one must be aware that this common breakfast food should not serve as a vitamin-supplement because the vitamin levels may be too high. So, the next time you’re using the mantra, “Eat your Wheaties!”… make sure its not too much!

The complete list of cereals and cereal bars with excessively high nurtrient levels can be found here.


Photo credit: Web MD/Raisin Bran/Cheerios

Ballsy Moves: What Happens When Soccer Players Have Wardrobe Malfunctions [NSFW VIDEO]

0
0

 

uptown_soccerplayers

Millions of eyeballs will continue to be glued to the TV, watching the remaining matches of the 2014 FIFA World Cup through the last game on July 13. As fans root for their country’s soccer team, now and again, there may be another type of ball to be seen.

In the fast paced game of soccer, with hands flying everywhere, scrambling feet and head butts, a wardrobe malfunction is likely to happen when players get caught up in the moment. And when they don’t pay attention to where their hands end up, instead of grabbing an opposing player’s shirt, they might end up tugging too hard on their shorts.

On the next page check out a few NSFW moments where unknown soccer players had rather embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions while playing.

What happens on the field, stays on the field…


Ooopsie…

 

 

 Source: YouTube, Adrian Garcia

Nigeria Ends Investigation, 200 Girls Still Missing

0
0

uptown nigerian girls still missing

After the terrorist group Boko Haram abducted over 200 Nigerian schoolgirls in April, Nigerian officials have concluded their investigation after little progress has been made.

Brigadier General Ibrahim Sabo submitted his final report late last week, stating that 219 girls remain in captivity, a total still virtually unchanged since terrorist stormed their village in northeast Borno. According to the report, at least 57 girls escaped and has been reunited with their families. A total of 276 girls were kidnapped on April 14 while taking exams in their secondary school.

“We are … pained that the schoolgirls remain in captivity,” Sabo said in a statement. “The hostage situation that this represents is obviously delicate.”

The government’s failure to rescue the girls, or protect them prior to their abduction, has become a political liability for President Goodluck Jonathan, especially with elections next year. In a statement, Sabo defends the Nigerian government, “for the Chibok schoolgirls, little will be achieved through finger-pointing. Getting the girls out, and safely, too, is by far more important than the publicity generated by the blame game that has tended to becloud the issue.”

Sabo recommended that the final report remain confidential to avoid impeding the hunt for the girls.

Photo credit: East News

 

Pilot of Missing Flight 370 Named ‘Chief Suspect’

0
0

Zaharie Ahmad Shah

After clearing everyone else on board, the pilot of missing Malaysian flight 370 has been named the ‘chief suspect.’

Zaharie Ahmad Shah, 53, programmed his home flight simulator with a route that would land a plane on a small island in the Indian Ocean. He rehearsed drills that would land the plane on the island with a short runway. Although Shah deleted the route, computer experts were able to recover them.

Despite suspicions, friends of Captain Zaharie cast doubt on the theory that he might have used the simulator to plan a hijacking: he was open enough to share images of his simulator on Facebook.

uptown_missingflightpilotsuspect

Friends say he also posted anti-terrorists posts on social media, along with supportive statuses of democratic opposition to Malaysia’s ruling coalition. He uploaded five YouTube clips about repairing electrical systems.

Malaysian police told the Sunday Times: “The police investigation is still ongoing. To date no conclusions can be made as to the contributor to the incident and it would be sub judice to say so.”

The Boeing 777 mysteriously vanished on March 8, with a total of  238 people on board.

Photo credit: Facebook

Walgreens, Jay Z, and Mariah Carey Want You to Drink Up

0
0

uptown go nsyde 4040 butterfly drinks

If that Pepsi or Mountain Dew doesn’t quench your thirst, maybe an ice cold Jay Z or Mariah Carey drink will. Drug store chain Walgreens, in partnership with Go N’Syde, is offering new beverages based on the two artists’ brands.

Carey’s “Butterfly” pink lemonade is aimed at middle aged women, and Jay-Z’s “40/40″ Arnold Palmer-like drink, is creatively branded after his nightspot of the same name and intended for sports-loving males. Each bottle is priced at $1.99.

But these won’t be ordinary beverages. Each bottle will be equipped with Augmented Reality integration for fans to download the company’s app and then scan the labels with their phones.
uptown butterfly pink lemonade

“I never dreamed that I could have an interactive experience with my fans while drinking my own beverage,” said Carey in a statement. “The whole concept is innovative and refreshing and the drink is beyond.”

According to Forbes, the drinks are currently available in select locations, selling approximately 1,000 bottles a week. Once those numbers increase, the drinks will be stocked at 7,500 Duane Reade and Walgreens stores around the country.

Kevin Liles, the former Def Jam president and Warner Music executive VP who runs Go N’Syde beverages and KWL Enterprises, also owns a management company that oversees the careers of musicians, athletes and models including D’Angelo, Trey Songz, Estelle, Nelly, and model Selita Ebanks.

 

Tupac Hits The Great White Way: A Review of ‘Holler if Ya Hear Me’

0
0

UPTOWN_holler_if_ya_hear_meBy Derrick Hemphill

Rappers used to say that “hip hop rules the world” back in the 1980s during a time when mainstream America didn’t expect the genre to live past infancy. However, today, hip-hop lends one of its iconic voices to a contemporary work on Broadway in Holler If Ya Hear Me.

Directed by recent Tony Award-winner, Kenny Leon (A Raisin in the Sun), Holler comes alive through the lyrics of, one of the most celebrated rappers that ever lived: Tupac Shakur. For fans of the controversial rapper, Holler is a head bopping ride down memory lane featuring more than 20 of Shakur’s hits, including “I Ain’t Mad at Cha,” “Hail Mary,” and “California Love.” For novices, it’s a chance to get inside the mind of the slain rapper. Raised as a child of the Black Power movement by his mother, Afeni Shakur, Tupac turned to the streets and gang banging as a teenager — a contradiction, indeed. But it is from the complex clash of these conflicting ideologies that we get the kind of prose that went into The Rose That Grew From Concrete and into his music – both used to accomplish the book for Holler.

The two act musical opens with John—adeptly portrayed by Saul Williams—spitting lyrics from “My Block” off of Shakur’s posthumously released album, Better Dayz. The Morehouse College graduate was a likely choice for the lead considering his deep roots in the genre. Williams, a poet, actor, and musician, won the Grand Jury Prize for Slam, his film about a poet who aspires to become a rapper. Holler’s book was penned by Todd Kreidler (Radio Golf, Gem of the Ocean), who initially had reservations about the musical. It was Leon who finally convinced him to make it an original non-biographical story to be tied together by Shakur’s songs and poetry.  The book makes a valiant effort at keeping the integrity of Shakur’s songs, but falls short of creating a compelling story. Though the show’s producers make it clear that the musical is not about Shakur, it somehow feels as if the Machiavellian rapper is missing from his own last hurrah.

Williams’ rival in the production is the character Vertus, played by Christopher Jackson, an accomplished Emmy Award-winning musician. Jackson’s portrayal is brilliant—look for big things from him on Broadway as his momentum continues to build.  Another Broadway heavy-hitter in Holler is three-time Tony nominee Tonya Pinkins, who came to the production directly from Ed Bullin’s The Fabulous Miss Marie at the New Federal Theatre, where she was just that … fabulous.  But here, it was Corrine, played by Saycon Sengbloh, who put in the stellar performance. Sengbloh’s Broadway credits include Motown: The MusicalFela!, and Hair.

Of particular note, the ensemble, called the “My Block Chorus,” proved cohesive and rarely failed to deliver the expected harmonization. They re-imagine Shakur’s lyrics as duets, chorales, and trades rap for song. Particularly interesting was Kreidler’s escalation into “Keep Ya Head Up,” performed by only the women in the chorale. Written as a song in support of female empowerment, this riveting number reveals yet another dimension of Shakur’s in Holler.


Primary Night is the New Black: Thad Cochran, Charles Rangel, Anthony Brown Win

0
0

Thad-Cochran-and-Charles-Rangel-jpg

Last night’s multi-state primary race results converged into one surreal twist of intriguing contradictions.  In the end, however, it all morphed into one pulsating ball of Blackness.  Black voters and Black politicians dominated headlines, punch lines and fast-moving letters on cable news tickers in strange bends of fate unseen in recent electoral semi-finals where voter turnout is so low it’s often unreportable.

Something cut through the first days of summer, though, with some political fates sealed and some fortunes rising.  Some dreams were deferred while the eulogies for others were stalled for the foreseeable.  Ultimately, the night was filled with all sorts of ugly, almost fiction-like irony fit for political thrillers.

Each state holds large Black populations and active Black political strongholds.  And those Black interests resonated as strongly in the red states as they did in the blue.

In one state, entrenched establishment White Republican incumbent keeps his seat by the skin of his teeth because Black voters answer his pleas for help. In another, entrenched establishment (and ethics-scarred) Black Democratic incumbent slaps off another challenge because white voters go with who they know.

Thus, it became the best of primary nights, the worst of primary nights.  Where one brother becomes his state’s first Black Governor, another brother is denied the history of becoming his state’s first Black Senator.

Mississippi was the true nail biter. Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) faced a political near-death experience when he was forced into a bitter, bloody-lip run-off against firebrand Tea Party-branded talk show host and state Sen. Chris McDaniel.  What started off as a classic episode of young vs. old quickly disintegrated into a nasty no-rules battle royale highlighting divisions by class and race in the poorest state in the Union.  But, more compelling was the irony: after rank-and-file Republican strategists spent so much political capital over the years actively legislating barriers to Black voting rights, they suddenly needed that same demographic to help their boy out.  It was a rare leap of faith as Cochran swallowed Southern pride and reached out to largely Democratic African American voters in a bid to retake the GOP primary.

It apparently worked.  Tea Party faithful were reeling from the sting of a humiliating defeat – at the hands of Black voters.  Shady racial code words were suddenly lighting up Twitter feeds and election night statements.  McDaniel accused Cochran of “abandoning the conservative movement” while like-minded others spat at “ghetto Democrats” playing “dirty” in a perfectly legal open primary.  At this stage, Tea Party rebels – deeply steeped in an anti-government dip resembling the states’ rights segregationism of 50 years ago – would be wise to draw down on the suspicious rhetoric lest they validate the neo-Confederate image.  What’s becoming clear in the wake of the Mississippi GOP primary is that African Americans don’t like Republicans – but, they absolutely loathe Tea Partisans.

Once the dust settles, questions abound: What will Cochran now owe his newfound Black support?  He can’t simply go back to business as usual and hope for nostalgia in the next cycle.  And will this particular play, in Mississippi of all places, trigger a sudden re-alignment of political interests? Will Republicans rethink how they step to Black voters, favoring strategic outreach over slick rigging of the process?  To establishment Republicans, open primaries could look very attractive … for the moment.

Interestingly enough, Tea Party insurgents were bashing Black voters in Mississippi while fighting a proxy war through Black Republican state House Speaker T.W. Shannon’s bid for Senate in Oklahoma.  In this case, Shannon didn’t deliver, losing to Rep. James Lankford (R-OK) despite close showings in pre-election polls.

Meanwhile, in Harlem, Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) somehow managed to find his pot of Lucky Charms.  A spirited challenge from local rival state Sen. Adriano Espaillat was beat back by a much older Rangel who seemed to revel in the multiple ironies of his predicament: it was 44 years ago that he waged political war against legendary Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. and won, sticking to a platform that charged the incumbent was too old to effectively serve the Harlem district.

Rangel is 84 – and visibly tired from an exhausting 2010 ethics probe and Congressional censure that stripped away his powerful Ways and Means chairmanship.  He is of an old guard Black political elite enamored with their six-figure salaries and elegant yearly huddles.  They are reluctant to pass torches and too stubborn to retire.  And while he was repeatedly abandoned by the Democratic establishment and dismissed by President Obama, he managed to squeeze an endorsement out of Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D-NY) – an intriguing development that possibly says more about Obama’s waning clout than it did about Rangel’s chances.

In the end, Rangel was able to fill any deficits of Black voters with plenty of resigned White voters who simply went with the familiar.  It was Rangel who gently oversaw their gradual gentrification of Harlem over the years, and it was Rangel who’d put on final touches till the end.

Least exciting, but no less significant was the expected win of Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown (D-MD) for the state of Maryland’s Democratic gubernatorial nomination.  What started off as an exciting three-way race punctuated by occasional bouts of feistiness from Brown’s left and increasingly populist flank eventually deflated under the weight of the state’s notorious political machine.  The outcome turned out flat with Democratic kingmakers moving pieces into place.  With the crab cake state solidly blue, Brown will more than likely be Maryland’s first African American governor as his boss, current Gov. Martin O’Malley (D-MD), transitions out of Annapolis for a long-shot bid at the White House. Will Brown be able to deliver his state in 2016 when O’Malley needs it?

CHARLES D. ELLISON is a veteran political strategist and Chief Political Correspondent for Uptown Magazine who hosts #Uptownhall.  He is also Washington Correspondent for the Philadelphia Tribune and a frequent contributor to The Root.  He can be reached via Twitter @charlesdellison.

Aaliyah Biopic Will Chronicle Singer’s Marriage to R. Kelly

0
0

Uptown_Aaliyah-R-Kelly

It may go unspoken, but R.Kelly, R&B music legend, had a relationship with protégé Aaliyah, which resulted in marriage.

Kelly produced Aaliyah’s 1994 debut, “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number,” which spawned the hit “Back And Forth.” Other than that, the public doesn’t know many details, but the Lifetime biopic of the late Aaliyah plans to chronicle the marriage between the two.

Some may believe one of the primary reasons that the family wanted to be a part of the movie-making process was to beautify elements of the rising star’s personal life in order to preserve her scratch-proof legacy. However, in a film which is to cover the life of Aaliyah from age 10 to 22, it is impossible to not include crucial elements such as this.  It will be interesting to see how the network handles such a delicate subject.uptown-aaliyah

It’s no secret that R. Kelly was charged with child molestation in a case involving the adolescent niece of his protégé, Sparkle.  Over ten years after the incident broke, R.Kelly has still not touched the details of his marriage to Aaliyah.

With no one to adequately relay the story, the question is–who will ensure sure that the story is told correctly?

Photo credit: Fanpop

Malaysia Pargo Shares a #MalaysiaMoment With Rapper-Preacher Mase

0
0

uptown-malaysia

Not much has been heard from rapper-turned-preacher-turned back rapper Mase since he left the music game in the early 2000s, but Mason Betha is baaaaaack. Now that he and his former wife are done, he’s been getting friendly with a fellow new divorcee, Malaysia Pargo of Basketball Wives LA.

The suspected couple was caught cruising in a new convertible Mase purchased for Pargo in Atlanta this past weekend.  According to an eye-witness at the Ritz Carlton, Malaysia was gifted a white corvette with a bow on top, eliciting a squeal of delight.

Malaysia and Mase are both shutting down the rumors via social media, with Pargo writing  “I’m not dating anyone but GOD… but Mase you cute tho.”

She just had to throw in that he was cute..hmmm

Meanwhile, Mase wrote, “That story about me dating her is inaccurate. However, I am flattered that you all still know that I’m that smooth and good looking enough to acquire such a lady.”

Malaysia, who stars on VH1′s Basketball Wives LA, recently revealed to fans the launch of her own reality series focusing on her newfound freedom from ex-husband and Charlotte Hornets baller Jannero Pargo, titled “Malaysia in the City.”  No word on when we can expect to see the premiere.

 

Deadly Ebola Virus Could Hit U.S. Soil

0
0

UPTOWN_stop_ebolaThe Ebola virus has caused 350 deaths in 567 reported cases since the epidemic began in Africa in March of this year, according to reports by the World Health Organization. And it is showing no signs of stopping anytime soon.

The deadly virus outbreak in West Africa has hit “unprecedented” proportions, according to relief workers. Typically outbreaks of Ebola occur in remote locations, which makes it easier to contain, but the recent outbreak has seen patients in 60 different locations ranging from Guinea to Sierra Leone and Liberia. It can take anywhere between two and 21 days for a person to feel symptoms. This has led to people who are unknowing carriers of the virus traveling and spreading the illness. The scariest part? International travelers could visit or return to the United States, spreading the sickness across continents.

[Image: Shutterstock]

UPTOWN_hospital_maskIn the beginning, symptoms are flu-like, but then the virus causes significant diarrhea and vomiting, while preventing the body from clotting the blood. As a result, patients often suffer internal and external hemorrhaging. Many die in an average of 10 days. However, the good news is that a person can’t spread Ebola until s/he is experiencing symptoms.

CNN reports that although there is no cure or vaccine for Ebola, death can be avoided if is treated early. Ebola typically kills 90 percent of its patients. However, the death rate for this current outbreak has dropped to roughly 60 percent.

[Image: Shutterstock]

Rick Fox is Single, Y’all

0
0

Uptown_FoxDushkuAfter five years of dating, Rick Fox and actress Eliza Dushku have called it quits.

The 33-year-old former “Dollhouse” star and the 44-year-old, retired NBA player turned actor have gone their separate ways after Dushku moved cross country back to her native Boston.

In an interview with The Boston Globe, the Dushku stated, “Rick’s an L.A. guy and I’m a Boston girl.” She went on to reveal her plans to go to college and get a degree and has already bought a condo in Boston. “I’d rather be a little physically cold here than emotionally cold in L.A.,” she said. “I missed my town and my family.” She also added that she is on a different path right now and her life isn’t the same.

Fox and Dushku began dating in 2009, and Fox even filmed a guest spot on Dushku’s drama “Dollhouse” in 2010.

Don’t worry, Dushku hasn’t completely turned her back on acting, she can next been seen in horror movie Eloise, co-starring Chase Crawford of “Gossip Girl” fame. Production on the film wrapped earlier this month.

Fox was a guest co-host on “The View” Tuesday, but did not mention his breakup. He can be seen weekly in the VH1 show “Hit the Floor.”

Study Proves Fruits & Veggies Prevent Diabetes, Cancer and other Chronic Diseases

0
0

The old adage “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” is proving to be true to an extent. New medical research reveals that eating plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains helps prevent people from developing more than one chronic disease.

The University of Adelaide examined the link between diet and 11 chronic diseases, including anemia, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, hepatitis, coronary heart disease, asthma, stroke, and cancer.  Their results found that people who eat a higher amount of fruit are less likely to develop any chronic disease, while a high intake of vegetables prevents people with one chronic disease from developing a second one.

This is the first study that has linked poor nutrition to the development of multiple chronic diseases. Researchers studied more than 1000 Chinese people over a five year period.
Study co-author Dr. Zumin Shi said the participants who did not develop any chronic disease ate on average 57 grams of fruit per day and rice intake was significantly lower in the healthy group. The research also found that healthier participants ate more grains other than wheat and rice – such as oats, corn, sorghum, rye, barley, millet and quinoa.

A higher daily intake of iron, magnesium, phosphorous, vitamin C, potassium and vitamin B1 was also associated with healthier participants.

The study was done in conjunction with universities and health organizations in China and Canada. It is published in the Clinical Nutrition Journal.

Kevin Hart, Solange, Vin Diesel & More Celebrity Cancers

0
0

UPTOWN_celebrity_cancers

Cancers can be emotional and wear their hearts on their sleeve which is probably why they make such great actors, like Meryl Streep. But at their core Cancers have a deep love for family. No wonder Solange Knowles allegedly defended her sister Beyoncé in that elevator, and Lil’ Kim went all out to welcome her first child. Keep clicking to see which celebrity Cancers are known to get into their feelings.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep – June 22

Meryl Streep remains one of the most treasured talents in Hollywood with over 18 Oscar nominations.

Randy Jackson

Randy Jackson – June 23

Randy Jackson has left the “American Idol” judging chair to get back to producing music.

uptown-cancer-lalaanthony

La La Anthony – June 24

La La’s been living a full court life with husband Carmelo Anthony, making her way from reality TV to respected actress with her latest role in Think Like A Man Too.

uptown-cancer-solangeknowles

Solange Knowles – June 24

The outspoken member of the Knowles clan celebrated her birthday in Jamaica this year. Rumor is that her next, long-awaited album is right around the corner.

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande – June 26

This pint-sized singer has been accused of taking a page from Mariah Carey’s vocal bible. With her second album being released this fall at only 20 years old, Grande’s bringing the big guns to shake those comparisons.

Michael Vick

Michael Vick – June 26

Michael Vick has a new team, the New York Jets, and has managed to stay out of the spotlight — and the dog-fighting ring — recently.


Vera Wang

Vera Wang – June 27

The legendary fashion designer is behind some of the most iconic wedding gowns for celebrities like Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey, and has outfitted FLOTUS Michelle Obama too.

uptown-cancer-kathybates

Kathy Bates – June 28

The Misery actress once again lived up to her dynamic personality on last year’s “American Horror Story: Coven.”

Nicole Scherzinger

Nicole Scherzinger – June 29

The former Pussycat Dolls lead singer is trying another stab at a solo career in the U.S. with a recent single and forthcoming album.

Fantasia

Fantasia – June 30

Fantasia’s return to Broadway in After Midnight earned her critical acclaim and Tony Award exposure. After 10 years in the game, she says she’s just as passionate as she was when competing in “American Idol.”

Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps – June 30

It’s been over two years since Michael Phelps retired after the last Olympic games, but the record-breaking Olympic gold medalist has been staying busy playing plenty of golf and staying fly.

Mike Tyson

Mike Tyson – June 30

Boxer Mike Tyson can still throw those hands, but he’s also exposed his softer side to the world.

Missy Elliott

Missy Elliott – July 1

The songwriter behind most of your favorite singers is still putting the finishing touches on her next album that is set to be released any day now.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan – July 2

Even Oprah couldn’t salvage what was left of the Mean Girls actress’ career. It’s been over 10 years since we’ve seen the actress take our breath away on screen.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise – July 3

Tom Cruise doesn’t let his age get in the way of filming action-packed movies, like his latest offering Edge of Tomorrow.

Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson

50 Cent – July 6

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson displays his Animal Ambition by ditching the major label system to go indie. He’s also racking up executive producer credits on the Starz TV show “Power.”

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart – July 6

Audiences continue to flock to theaters to see comedian Kevin Hart. His latest flick Think Like A Man Too has hit No. 1 at the box office. That’s a pretty sweet birthday gift.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith – July 8

Karate Kid Jaden Smith is one eccentric teenager simply living out his life in front of the cameras these days. What else would you explain his wearing a Batman costume to Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s wedding?

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll – July 17

The regal and talented beauty Diahann Carroll has barely aged since her portrayal as Dominique Deveraux in “Dynasty.”

Vin Diesel

Vin Diesel – July 18

Heartthrob Vin Diesel is bringing his good looks and strength to the screen again with upcoming movies, Guardians of the Galaxy and xXx: The Return of Xander Cage.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks – July 9

Actor Tom Hanks may have stolen many of our hearts as Forrest Gump, but his portrayal as Captain Phillips still has Hollywood buzzing.

Sofia Vergara

Sofia Vergara – July 10

As the highest-paid TV actor of 2013 — male or female — according to Forbes, Sofia Vergara may also be one of the hardest working women in show business.

Lil Kim

Lil Kim – July 11

The Queen Bee received a very special birthday gift this year, her new daughter Royal Reign.

Tristan Wilds

Tristan “Mack” Wilds – July 15

One of the latest actors making the transition into a singing career, Mack Wilds garnered a Grammy nomination for his debut album.

Will Ferrell

Will Ferrell – July 16

The comedian is celebrating his birthday this month and, hopefully, working on new ideas to keep us in stitches.

Omar Epps

Omar Epps – July 20

Omar Epps has found a home starring on ABC ‘s new hit show Resurrection.

Keith Sweat

Keith Sweat – July 22

R&B legend Keith Sweat continues to keep his fans happy with his performances all around the world and his successful turn as a late-night radio host.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover – July 22

Actor Danny Glover remains one of Hollywood’s most reliable actors for characters requiring emotional depth and strength.


Did Solange Get Engaged on Her Birthday?!

0
0
Solange and her boyfriend embrace in Jamaica.

Solange Knowles embraces boyfriend Alan Ferguson on her birthday, June 24, 2014, in Jamaica.

Solange Knowles celebrated her 28th birthday on June 24 in Jamaica, with lots of big smiles and pictures of herself cuddled up with her boo. The singer is spending the summer on the Caribbean island while putting the finishing touches on her third album. But there might be more cause for celebration, as rumor has it Solange’s 51-year-old boyfriend Alan Ferguson might have put a ring on it.

Beyoncé’s little sister called her day “perfect” as she shared a picture on Instagram of herself and Ferguson hugged up in crystal clear waters. MediaTakeOut.com is reporting that Solo will be solo no more because Ferguson proposed. But you know how little MTO can be trusted and Solange hasn’t confirmed the engagement. We do think she’d be happy to spend her life with Ferguson, though.

Solange Knowles is all smiles celebrating her 28th birthday.

Solange Knowles shared this picture saying her birthday was perfect.

“Today couldn’t have been more perfect,” the Saint Records owner wrote as a caption to the Instagram image above. “I couldn’t have smiled harder. Thank you for all of your lovely and wonderful wishes. They warmed my heart and I simply feel grateful for all of the love.”

Solange’s 2014 hasn’t been without controversy, though. In May, surveillance video was released of the singer/deejay attacking brother-in-law Jay Z at the Met Gala after party at the Standard Hotel in NYC, as her sister Beyoncé looked on emotionless.

But in Jamaica, it looks as if Solange has found love and peace as she poses in the arms of her long-term boyfriend. In an interview earlier this year with Harper’s Bazaar, Solange said, “Luckily, I dated all of the losers ages ago,” of her relationship of with Ferguson, with whom she lives, along with her 8-year-old son Daniel Julez from a three-year marriage to Daniel Smith. They wed when she was just 17. “My love life has been stable for a while,” she added. “It’s a fucked-up thing—without conflict it’s a lot harder to write interesting songs.”

There’s no word on when her new album will be released.

RELATED: Kevin Hart, Solange, Vin Diesel & More Celebrity Cancers

The Beat Makes a Difference: 8 Unexpected Song Remakes That We Love

0
0

uptown whitney houston sam smith

By Caprece Cotton-Sturdivant

Sam Smith has set the internet ablaze with his soulful remake of Whitney Houston’s classic pop song “How Will I Know” and it’s arguably one of the best remakes I have ever heard.

Often when we hear the word “remake” we hold our breaths, listening to see if it holds a candle to our favorite.

If we’re lucky, what we end up with is a new way to love an old favorite. Here are seven other remakes that make us wanna sing, pun intended.

Kanye West/ The Fray “Heartless”

Kanye West’s techno sounding tune of love and heartbreak gets a soulful ballad remake by The Fray and it’s amazing.

Beyonce/ Sara Bareilles “Single Ladies”

The song of the year (just ask Kanye West) had every lady with their ring fingers in the air. Sara Bareilles makes a sweet jazzy version that almost makes you forget that you’re giving your man a read.

Roberta Flack/ The Fugees, “Killing Me Softly”

Hip Hop has always been known for sampling the classics, but this remake of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly” was an instant hit for The Fugees.

Eurthymics “Sweet Dreams”/ Nas “Street Dreams

Every 80’s baby rocked out to this Eurthymics classic, and though rapper Nas added a slight title change he was definitely inspired by the original.

Michael Jackson/Animal Ant Farm, “Smooth Criminal”

Nobody has more hits than Michael Jackson, and “Smooth Criminal” is one of my absolute favorites. Virtually unknown rock band Animal Ant Farm put themselves on the map with their remake of this King of Pop classic.


Rihanna/Mandy Moore “Umbrella”

Umbrella is that song you just can’t get out of your head. Rihanna’s version made you dance, while Mandy Moore turned it into a sweet love song.

Dolly Parton/ Whitney Houston, “I Will Always Love You”

You might not be familiar with the original Dolly Parton country version that she wrote when she was splitting with one-time partner and mentor Porter Wagoner. But you’d have to be living under a rock on Mars to not know Whitney’s version of “I Will Always Love You.” Still to this day I keep a box of tissues on standby when this song comes on.

Caprece Cotton-Sturdivant is a writer and mommy, who loves to share comedic tales of what she’s learned so far about being a mom. She resides in New York City with her husband and daughter who are her inspirations. Read more from Cotton-Sturdivant at Mommie Knows Fresh.

Star Style: Taraji P. Henson Shines With Class [PHOTOS]

0
0

UPTOWN_star_style_taraji_p_henson

Since making her debut on the big screen in John Singleton‘s Baby Boy, Taraji P. Henson has been unstoppable. The SAG, Emmy, and Oscar nominee has portrayed a range of characters, proving that her talent is diverse. This past weekend, audiences flocked to see Henson and her co-stars in the romantic comedy, Think Like A Man Too, which pulled in $30 million during its debut weekend. In the coming months, Henson will flip the script in Fox’s hip-hop drama Empire with co-star Terrence Howard. When it comes to acting, the theater arts major and Howard University alum once said:

“Acting for me is very therapeutic. It’s my shrink.”

Henson is also an advocate of PETA, proclaiming, “I don’t think a living being should suffer for the sake of fashion, period, end of story.” But that doesn’t mean Henson doesn’t pay attention to fashion. She still manages to pull off her signature classic meets modern approach to red carpet style. Whether you’re looking for style inspiration for a summer vacation, the office, or to makeover your closet, take a few fashion cues from this week’s Star Style, Taraji P. Henson.


UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson1

Wearing a sheer dress doesn’t have to mean baring it all — in fact you can show off as much or as little as you want. Henson opted to wear a slip under her sheer dress, giving her a sexy and sophisticated appearance. 

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson2

Having am hourglass shape, Henson opted to play up her cleavage with a plunging V-neck gown.


UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson3

Flirty circle skirts in a lightweight leather or any other fabric is the perfect summer essential for showing off legs, when shorts aren’t dressy enough.


UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson4

Henson sizzles in this red leather dress, and the nude shoe perfectly elongates her legs.


UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson5

 Accessories should convey something about your personal style. Henson’s bag, shoes and trench says that she is simple, yet modernly chic. 

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson6

When it comes to owning the perfect little black dress, it often comes down to the details. Henson’s Herve Leger black dress literally gives a glamorous vibe with a touch of rock and roll. 

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson7

What’s a summer wardrobe without color? This season, have fun by giving your wardrobe depth, whether that means color-blocking or just complementing one color with another.

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson8

With July 4th around the corner, rocking cobalt blue will keep your look festive.


UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson9

Have a night party to attend this summer or traveling to Vegas? A metallic dress is the starry way to shine. 
UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson10

 Bring your wardrobe to life with a print that not only pops, but also complements your shape by playing up your assets.

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson11

 Cropped pants have a way of making an outfit feel and look relaxed. However, if it is necessary to dress up the look, simply add a blazer and blouse, like Henson.

UPTOWN_Star_style_Taraji_P_Henson12

Want to wear something that is long and flowing — that isn’t a maxi dress — but has the same ease? A jumpsuit is the best alternative. 

FAFSA Apologizes For ‘Poor’ Students Insult

0
0

uptown-fafsatweet

The U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid agency thought it had found a creative way to remind students to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the upcoming school year. Ahead of the June 30 deadline, the agency tweeted a screenshot of Kristen Wiig from the movie Bridesmaids captioned with “Help me, I’m Poor.” Above the picture, the tweet said, “If this is you, then you better fill out your FAFSA.” Applicants applying to college fill out the form yearly to secure funding for tuition.

The tweet quickly set the Twitter world on fire with responses from undergraduate and graduate students, who are still feeling the pains of student loan debt. One user commented, “Bc I filled out @FAFSA, I am now way more poor than I started out.” Another wrote, “not everyone who completes a FAFSA is poor and mocking those who are at or below FPL is tasteless, offensive, and ignorant.”

Realizing the error of its ways, FAFSA quickly removed the tweet from its feed. By that time it was too late. The agency replaced the previous “joke” with what appeared to be a stock apology: “We apologize for the insensitivity of our previous tweet. Our goal is to make college a reality for all. We’re very sorry.” The agency then announced it was shutting down its virtual office using the hashtag #ASKFAFSA.

uptown-fafsa-tweet2

 

Meagan Good Reveals Pre-Marriage Struggles

0
0

uptown-megangooddevonfranklin

Hollywood beauty Meagan Good already had an established career in television and film when she wed Pastor and film exec DeVon Franklin.  She admitted Tuesday, in an interview with Shamara and Laiya of Philly’s Hot 107.9, that the idea of submission in a relationship did not fit her at first.

But she admits that after falling in love with Franklin, it changed her perception of what submission really meant.

She said:

“Listen, it’s so interesting. I was really always afraid of marriage; I was like, ‘I don’t know if I can do this.’ I’m such a free-spirited person. The whole idea of submitting just freaked me out. Then, when I met the right person, where submitting meant something totally different than what I thought it meant–it meant that I was his partner, that I was his backbone, that he actually cares about my opinion and that he actually seeks my advice–it just changed my whole entire perception of it. He really is my partner in purpose. He really is like my ride-or-die and I’m his ride-or-die. Anyway, I really like him a lot. A lot of people love the person they’re with. I really like him a lot and love him. So yes, I will have sex with him for the rest of our lives.”

She later voiced that she did not care what naysayers thought about her choices as a wife, saying:

“At the end of the day, you gotta keep your eyes on God and you gotta do what’s in your heart and what you believe is the right thing. Being authentic is the right thing. I’m called to a certain generation and a certain kind of people and women. A lot of those people won’t set foot in a church just because of the judgment and because they don’t feel like they fit in and because they don’t feel like they’re good enough. Those are the people I directly connect with because that has always been my experience. “

Many Christians feel that when a woman weds her husband, she should be an obedient and submissive wife. But over the years, the perception of many has changed, resulting in many wives removing the vow “I promise to obey” from their nuptials altogether.  Some Christians explain submission by saying if a woman chooses the right man that God has set aside for her, she would have no problem obeying him as the leader of the household.

Check out the full interview below.

Your thoughts?

Viewing all 6567 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images