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“Young Love” Starring Kid Cudi and Issa Rae Is A Must-see

Young Love

When discussions revolve around cinematic treasures, they typically encompass genres such as dramas, comedies, horror films, and love stories. Animation, however, is rarely included in this discourse. However, Kid Cudi and Issa Rae will soon star in an animated feature that will make its mark as a cultural treasure.

Basics of “Young Love”

“Young Love” is an upcoming animated feature soon to premiere on Max. This original creation draws its inspiration from the  work of Matthew Cherry, the author of the award-winning short film “Hair Love.”

The film tells a poignant tale centered around themes of love, caregiving, family, and the celebration of one’s authentic cultural heritage. Blexmedia aptly describes it as a heartfelt and humor-laden exploration of the experiences of African-American Millennial parents as they navigate the complexities of parenthood and life’s challenges.

Kid Cudi and Issa Rae Bring the Story to Life

The main characters are Stephen Love and Angela Young. Both are parents to a charming young beauty, Zuri. Angela (Issa Rae), is a cancer survivor and a hairstylist, and Love (Kid Cudi), is a struggling musician with dreams of stardom. They are a millennial family living in Chi-town. Together, they are working to make it work. It’s a lovely addition to the cultural vault and something seldom seen.

The Voices of Young Love

Kid Cudi and Issa Rae will be joined by a remarkable ensemble of seasoned professionals poised to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. Among the individuals committed to bringing this project to life are Loretta Divine, Tamar Braxton, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Brooke Monroe Conaway, and Debra Wilson. Coupled with star power and a heartwarming narrative, “Young Love” is undoubtedly set for tremendous success.

Young Love Soon to Arrive

The good news is that the wait for “Young Love” won’t be much longer. The feature will debut on September 21st. And Matthew Cherry is eagerly looking forward to expanding his work. As he expressed in a 2020 interview,

“I am thrilled to continue sharing the journey of Stephen, Angela, and Zuri and explore the dynamics of this young Black millennial family in greater depth.”

Cherry’s cheerful impact is apparent, Stylsit reported that upon the release of the short film on December 5th, it garnered an impressive 10 million views in its first month. With the upcoming feature series, it is likely to make an even bigger splash

Cheers

Representation does truly matter. So much love and applause to Cherry and the production partners bringing this film into our homes. And hopefully, there will be many more such as this to follow.

Written by: Renae Richardson

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FM Community FM Culture FM Education FM News Trending

Issa Rae, Gabrielle Union, and Charles D. King to be Featured on New Chad Sander’s Podcast

Chad Sanders

 In October, Audible will gain a new podcast series entitled “Deposit: What Happens When Black People Get Rich, ” And none other than Chad Sanders, author, and serial entrepreneur, will serve as host.

Crucial Topics of Interest

Issues of wealth and progress are crucial topics within the community. And Surely, given the context of this podcast, this medium will stimulate deep and meaningful conversation on those topics. “Deposit” will feature prominent and wealthy figures within the community sharing their invaluable experiences. And sources indicate Issa Rae, Charles D. King, and Gabrielle Union will be some of the first contributors.

 

Who is Chad Sanders?

 

Charles Sanders, the host of the new podcast series, is a successful businessman. He is no stranger to struggle. Rather he has worked his way to triumph.  In fact, he has worked diligently to find his voice and establish himself as a success in a world rife with inequity.  However, he has never held back his wealth of experience. Wonderfully, Sanders put his experiences on paper. And in 2021 his literary work entitled “Black Magic: What Leaders Learn from Trauma and Triumph” was published. His ethos for the work can be firmly summarized as Goodreads notes, “A defining look at Black Magic: resilience, creativity, and perseverance, forged in his experience navigating America as a Black man. “

And graciously now, he is expanding his platform for a broader reach.

 

 Sanders Podcast Guest: Issa Rae

Issa Rae

Issa Rae: Image Source: Getty Images

 

Issa Rae is known for blazing trails in Hollywood. There is no doubt that Rae embodies the spirit of what Nina Simone envisioned in her work,  “To be Young Gifted and Black.”  Rae’s path has led her to become an award-winning writer, director, and producer. And she uses her gifts to pour back into the community. According to sources, she has not only knocked down doors but continues to hold them open via HOORAE, her multi-media company. And as an extra boon, HOORAE has allowed Rae to expand her Executive Producer slate with the Emmy-award nominated A Black Lady Sketch Show, docuseries Sweet Life, and the HBOMax series, RAP SH*T, according to issarae.com. 

 

 Sanders Podcast Guest: Charles D. King

 

Charles D. King

Charles D. King. Image Source: Variety

King is also sharing the platform with Rae and Union to share his experiences, and rightly so. Charles D. King is a multi-media Titan with a heart for his community. He is the owner of a media conglomerate missioned as a bulwark in the community for people of color. According to Variety, “King’s businesses include film and TV studios, talent and influencer management divisions (M88 and UNCMMN, respectively), a branding and creative agency, and a venture-capital firm.” Additionally, King’s work extends to magnifying voices of color through stories with a cultural impact, such as “Judas and The Black Messiah,” “Fences,” and “Just Mercy.”  King’s positioning as one of the top 500 Business leaders in entertainment, according to Variety, solidifies his position as a valued resource to listeners.

Sanders Podcast Guest: Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union. Image Source: Getty Images

 

Gabrielle Union will be the third professional rounding out the panelist.  And surely, she will serve as a worthy contributor. Gabrielle Union is an acclaimed actress. However, it is her diligence that has helped her ascend. From minor walk-on roles in “Family Matters” in the early 90s to more prolific roles in films like 2016, “Birth of Nations” Union earned her position. Now It is no secret that Union hasn’t always lived a “Life of Riley.” Regardless she remains grounded. And she now uses her growth and gains to empower others. According to IMDB,  the impactfulness of Union’s activism has garnered her much respect. Reportedly the artist has even received praise from Oprah Winfrey for her activism and the passion she puts forth on the platforms available to her. 

Cultural Treasure

While the podcast is yet to air, it will be one not to be missed. Progress is like a staircase.  And sturdy staircases require a solid foundation built by contributors with a vested interest in heights of probable reach. Sander’s podcast stands to be a model within the community. and worthy of spotlighting. So, to discover what these enterprising professionals have to share, tune in to Sander’s eight-episode podcast series on its October 13th premiere.

Written by: Renae Richardson

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FM Cinema FM News Trending

New Hip Hop Series ‘Rap Sh!t’ to Air On HBO Max

Aida Osman and Kamillion Rap Shit

Nothing gets the hip-hop community more hype than a new show with hip-hop as the nucleus; now, there is yet another thing to raise the hype factor “Rap Sh!t.” Sources note July 21; fans will experience HBO’s newest series.

“Rap Sh!t”

“Rap Sh!t” is creating quite the buzz. The show is a project that Issa Rae has the privilege of serving as co-writer and executive producer. As a writer, Issa, former star of the hit series “Insecure,” is given credit for writing both the premiere and the final episode of the show. And reportedly, Yung Miami and JT (from City Girls) will serve alongside Issa Rae also as executive producers proving this should be quite an exciting show.

The Plot

According to TV Line, the show’s plot revolves around two friends, Shawna and Mia. After the two have been apart for a minute, they reunite, setting their sights on a career in the industry. The goal for this hot Miami pair becomes forming a rap group. Given the success of “Queens” starring Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton and Nadine Velazquez, we are here for it all. However, the word is “Rap Sh!t” will not be your typical drama. Instead, this show is categorized as a music-comedy giving it an extra something to pique viewers’ interest.

The One in Charge

Rae, Young Miami and JT are not the only ones on the project. The project is said to be headed by Syreeta Singleton, who Rae asked to lead the charge. And Singleton cannot gush enough about the premise of the new show. According to Singleton, the show dives deep into the meaning of friendship. Although there is much to be said about the music underlining the series, there is one thing she hopes for. In speaking of her waiting audience, Singleton had this to say,

“I really hope that they see themselves in Shawna and/or Mia.”

Shawna, Mia and their Rap Sh!t

Shawna and Mia are the main characters of the new series. These two hip-hop aspirants are the ones viewers will rock with during their ride from discovery to the realization of their passion. According to Huff Post, Shawna is a student of hip-hop. She’s a socially conscious rapper whose been flexing and honing her skills since her Spelman days. However, things haven’t panned out the way she hoped. And as is noted, her characterization is drawn from the inspiration of a few hip-hop female heavyweights, Missy Elliott, Tierra Whack, Noname and Rapsody.

Mia, the other part of the duo, is Shawna’s homegirl, a true-to-herself hustler. Her sights are set on survival and the best for her daughter. Her grind is her priority, and she makes her ends by putting in hours as a sex worker and make-up artist.

The Crux of it All

Despite their different trajectories and life perspectives, they come together to do something extraordinary. According to Singleton Shawna, played by Aida Osman (show writer), and Mia, played by (rap artist), KaMillion come to see

“They both kind of need each other without really realizing it.”

A Little More about the Series

The series will carry eight episodes. The soundtrack will highlight some of Miami’s hottest. According to Huff Post,

“The show features original music from Miami artists and producers. Its music also samples songs from Khia and Trina, artists who’ve captured the iconic Miami hip-hop sound.”

Given the plot, series progenitors, crew and the score, the flex is hard with “Rap Sh!t.” This is a show that’s flying high on our radar. Here’s hoping “Rap Sh!t” lives up to the hype.

https://youtu.be/-_CotvQqCk4

 

Written by: Renae Richardson

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FM Education FM News

Dillard’s ‘Hip-Hop Prez’ Walter Kimbrough to Resign in 2022 After a Decade of Service

Hip-Hop Prez, Walter Kimbrough
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Times

Dr. Walter Kimbrough, Dillard University’s self-proclaimed “Hip-Hop Prez” announced Monday he will be stepping down in May 2022. Kimbrough ends his decade long tenure as the HBCU’s president in search of new opportunities, reports the New Orleans Advocate.

A native of Atlanta, Kimbrough has had a successful run as president at the New Orleans, Louisiana university. His accomplishments include increasing the university’s endowment to $80 million and expanding academic programs to increase enrollment. Dillard’s alumni donations have also gone up 19 percent during Kimbrough’s tenure. Kimbrough says there is a need for growth, both personally and for the university.

“Dillard University and New Orleans have been awesome for our family, and we are thankful for the love and support. But it is time for a new challenge where my gifts and graces match the needs of an institution at this point in their history, and Dillard is ready for someone new to do likewise,” Kimbrough said in his announcement.

How He Became the “Hip-Hop Prez”

Kimbrough has been called the HBCU president for millennials. In 2004 he was called the “Hip-Hop Prez” by Arkansas Times when hired as president of Philander Smith College in Little Rock. Kimbrough welcomed it. “Having a brand as a president doesn’t exist, now, it’s who I am,” he said. Kimbrough left Philander in 2011 after seven years to accept his current position as Dillard University president. He incorporates the Culture on the university’s social media accounts and in various panels hosted throughout the year, including a female MC cypher panel in 2018.

He Also Goes Hard for Greater NOLA Communities

Dr. Kimbrough has been featured in Ebony magazine and NBC News for his writings on African-American men in college and HBCUs. He also teaches a course called “Hip Hop, Sex, Gender and Ethical Behavior.” Recently, he has been vocal about safety during the pandemic after losing his brother to Covid-19 earlier this year.

The “Hip-Hop Prez” also hosts a lecture series, Brain Food ,that connects notable speakers and celebrities with the Greater New Orleans community. Brain Food has welcomed Jemele Hill, Issa Rae, Lena Waithe and Gabrielle Union among others.

Dillard’s Board Chair Calls Kimbrough’s Leadership “Innovative”

Board chairman Michael D. Jones says Kimbrough has made a significant contribution to the university and that he is an “innovative” leader.

“His commitment to our mission has resulted in significant growth financially, academically, and in the community. I am excited about Dillard’s future as we enter this next era of leadership,” says Jones.

While he has not stated what his future plans are, he is certain that his legacy is in the students he inspires. On that legacy, he says, “I think legacy is living, and so students that you meet and are a part of this project, that’s a legacy.”

 

Written by Aisha K. Staggers @AishaStaggers on Twitter

 

 

Read related FM Hip-Hop story:

Charlamagne Tha God Receives Honorary Doctorate from SCSU

 

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Issa Rae Talks Inspiration Behind New “Rap Shit” Series…

Issa Rae may be pulling the plug on her breakout series Insecure, but that does not mean the Los Angeles native will stop future endeavors. Earlier, Rae inked a five-year overall deal with Warner Media. Joining her HOORAE media label in partnership with the company. Giving HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Bros. exclusive rights to Rae’s work in television. Plus, a film deal that will span to Warnermedia brands. Including, Pictures Group, Warner Bros., HBO Max, and New Line. With Insecure approaching its last season, that means upcoming projects produced in the new deal. 

In addition to this new deal, Issa Rae is currently working on a new venture: Rap Sh*t. Created from controversial comments from Jermaine Dupri regarding women rappers.

Rae told Rolling Stone, “I was just like, ‘This is so unfair.” Adding that his interview is what “inspired the writing of the series. In the interview, Jermaine Dupri criticized women rappers as having not enough variety. And states he does not have a current female rapper because “they’re all rapping about the same thing.”  

“I don’t think they’re showing us who’s the best rapper.” Dupri continues, “For me, it’s like strippers rapping and as far as rap goes I’m not getting who’s the best rapper.” 

Feeling motivated by Dupri’s tone-deaf comments, Rae felt inspired and created the series. Based on 2 Miami friends trying to make it in the industry. The series will focus on the City Girls. The real-life Miami duo, who made a name for themselves. And is seen as the new wave of female rappers taking over the industry. 

Rae and Syreeta Singleton will also executive produce the series. City Girls; Yung Miami, and JT will also serve as executive producers. Serving as executive producer, Montreal Mckay will produce with Jonathon Berry and Dave Becky (3 Arts Entertainment). Pierre “P” Thomas and Kevin Coach K Lee of Quality Control Films is executive producing with HOORAE’s Sara Rastogi. 

With all the Covid restrictions lifting, the series will begin filming this summer. So be on the lookout because this will be very entertaining.

And we all can not wait.  

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Saweetie say Lil Kim had Best Bar In Female Rap History in song “Not Tonight”

saweetie

Bay Area Rapper Saweetie expresses her love for Lil Kim and praises female Rappers Foxy Brown, Trina, Missy Elliot, and Nicki Minaj.

Saweetie recently sat down during an interview with Insecure star Issa Rae on Apple Music’s Issa Raedio Show.

The conversation starts with Issa and Saweetie mentioning how much they adore one another. Saweetie stated that she has an emotional connection with Issa Rae. When Saweetie’s last relationship came to an end, Issa says she felt like “Shit”. She started to binge-watch the show “Game of Thrones” and Issa Rae’s “Insecure” to ease her mind.

Saweetie spoke about her female Hip-Hop inspirations and mentioned that her mother listened to a lot of Lil Kim and Foxy Brown.

Saweetie said, “I’ve always liked their demeanor. Like, their demeanor is just-I know that when they step into the room like you can just feel that boss-ness. They always just felt so powerful to me.”

“I love me some, Missy. I always tell people, ‘If I’m gon’ get nasty, I’m a get nasty like Missy ’cause she’s always creative, and she’ll make you think.’ That’s what I drew from her.”

Saweetie goes on and mentions how she enjoyed seeing how comfortable rapper Trina was in her own body. And how she used to listen to Nicki Minaj in highschool and discovered her on Lime-wire.

She mentions how strong of a team she has which includes a mixture of family and friends. She’s got a friend who runs her campaigns and is also managed by her uncle. She talks about needing constructive criticism to be a better version of herself. She loves that everyone around her gives her honest answers when receiving feedback.

Saweetie also gives us an inside scoop on her bran new album“Pretty B*tch Music”. “It’s looking like more than 17 songs,” Saweetie revealed.

“It’s hella long! I’m really excited. She expresses how she struggled in the beginning with finding her own sound. ” I didn’t know how to properly deliver. I didn’t know what inflection was. I couldn’t find producers who made sense with my brand and my voice because all those things work congruently to make a good song.” But she’s worked on her craft and is happy that people are now getting to know she is.

Toward the end of her interview, Saweetie praises Lil Kim’s bar in her song “Not Tonight”. Saweetie says Lil Kim’s “Not Tonight” lyrics “the best bar in history.” I like when she says, ‘Tryin’ to impress me with your five G stones / I’ll give you ten Gs, n*gga, if you leave me alone.’ When I heard that, I was like, I felt it. I knew what she meant and that’s just the most boss thing someone could ever say. I love that line.”

Written by: Christina Freycinet

IG: Tinablaze

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#FMFeline: City Girls & Issa Rae To Create New Show ‘Rap Sh*t’ On HBO Max

Photo Courtesy of Pop Sugar

HBO Max has officially given Insecure creator Issa Rae the green light to run her show, Rap Sh*t. Syreeta Singleton will assist as executive producer and showrunner, and hip-hop female duo Yung Miami and JT of City Girls will serve as co-executive producers. This news comes specifically as a shock because it’ll be the rapstresses first time delving into the film scene. We are excited for them to have this new experience.  

Photo Courtesy of BET

Ultimately, I think I speak for everyone when I say that we can’t wait to see what Issa Rae and the City Girls compile together. The show’s plot focuses on two semi-close high school friends from Miami, Florida, who link up to form a rap group. On the music end, Rae’s audio content company Raedio will be in charge. There are no other details as of yet on the show’s release date or cast list. 

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2020 Emmy Nominations Hits Record Number of Black Actors

Issa Rae|Kerry Washington| Jeremy Pope | PEOPLE

2020 Emmy Nominations Hits Record Number of Black Actors

“I am voting for everyone black”

The phase by Emmy-nominated actress Issa Rae still remains true and holds more weight today.

 

The 2020 Emmy Nominations hit a record number of black actors who were nominated in various categories.

 

According to Variety, “102 acting nominees this year across lead, supporting and guest categories for drama, comedy and limited series/TV movie. Thirty-five of those slots went to Black actors.”

 

Fans have been raving over the nominations on social media. 

 

Insecure, the HBO hit-show, is in the running for outstanding comedy series. Alongside the show’s nomination, Issa Rae earned a nomination for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series and Yvonne Orji for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series.

Issa Rae & Yvonne Orji | POPSUGAR

With her first-ever Emmy nomination, Zendaya, for her role as Rue Bennett in Euphoria, is nominated for outstanding lead actress in a drama series.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDM3ZShAhY9/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

In the category of outstanding lead actress in a limited series or movie, Kerry Washington is recognized for her character, Mia Warren,  in Little Fires Everywhere. Powerhouse actresses, Regina King (Watchmen) and Octavia Spencer were all acknowledged in this category.

https://twitter.com/kerrywashington/status/1288210937728516096?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

Include Mahershala Ali (Ramy), Thandie Newton (The Handmaid’s Tale), Samira Wiley (Westworld), Wanda Sykes (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Don Cheadle (Black Monday), Jeremy Pope (Hollywood) and so many more.

 

For the full list of the Emmy nominations, head over to Billboard.com.

The 72nd Emmy Awards, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, will broadcast Sunday, Sept. 20, at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT on ABC.

Alisha Brown | Instagram/Twitter: @lishablive

Related Stories: 2020 BET Awards Nominees Have Been Announced 

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#FmFashion: This Weeks Best Dressed Men And Women

Issa Rae, Cosmopolitan Shoot 2020
Issa Rae, Cosmopolitan Shoot 2020

This Weeks Best Dressed Men and Women

 

 

With the pandemic and stay-at-home orders coming to an end, this weeks best dressed men and women are authoritative figures who demand attention with their bold fashion choices.

Continue reading “#FmFashion: This Weeks Best Dressed Men And Women”
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#FMTRENDS: Drake drops ‘Nice For What’ music video starring all-female cast

tidal.com

Drake drops ‘Nice For What’ music video starring all-female cast

Drake dropped some heat Friday night with his ‘Nice For What’ music video starring an all-female led cast.  This is Drake’s third single of 2018, the new track samples Lauryn Hill’s ‘Ex-Factor’, which is a testimony to tenacious, independent women.

Continue reading “#FMTRENDS: Drake drops ‘Nice For What’ music video starring all-female cast”