Entertainment
Bun B’s all-American takeover celebrated black and brown talent from across the country
(Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for Crown Royal)
Legendary Texas rapper Bun B is understood not just for his solo profession, but additionally as one half of the iconic hip-hop duo Underground Kingz (UGK). His influence reaches far beyond Texas, and the “country rap” sound created by Pimp C is reaching the masses. His position earned him a coveted appearance at Black Heritage night at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. It was here that he introduced his groundbreaking “Takeover” live shows, a one-day extravaganza that brings a constellation of artists to Houston’s NRG Stadium during peak rodeo season.
During his inaugural 2022 “Takeover” event, Bun B spotlighted H-Town’s OG rap talent, assembling an all-star lineup of local stars including Lil Keke, Slim Thug, Z-Ro, Paul Wall, and even the Destiny’s Child alum LeToya Luckett. Building on this success, the following yr Bun B expanded its reach regionally with Southern Takeover, which featured iconic acts equivalent to 8 Ball & MJG, Erykah Badu and David Banner.
In 2024, the emcee took his “Takeover” concept to a brand new level with the “All-American” theme, showcasing diverse contributions to hip-hop from across the country. The event provided a glimpse into Houston’s vibrant music scene, St. Louis, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and Atlanta. The lineup included a powerhouse band that included Nelly, Eve, The Ying Yang Twins, Rick Ross, E-40 and Too Short – 33 songs and 90 minutes of nostalgic hits.
As a part of the promotion and marketing of the show, Bun B slowly and deliberately announced the names of the artists who would join him on stage for the US-wide enterprise. Before the show, Bun B announced that Canadian rapper Drake would even be at the show, but like Houston, you never really know who will show up.
In addition to showcasing these key talents on the Rodeo’s major stage, Bun B took meticulous care of each aspect of the performance. Kicking off the show with a blinding display of fireworks and pyrotechnics, it ignited an electrifying atmosphere even before the artists took to the stage. Moreover, to extend anticipation and excitement, each performer was introduced via jumbotron, setting the stage for his or her extraordinary performances. The show began with a dialogue between Chad “Ocho Cinco” Johnson and Shannon Sharpe, hosts of the acclaimed YouTube show, to organize the audience.
Bun B ceremoniously took the stage, opening his set along with his iconic song “Draped Up” while adorned in a cowboy hat and a custom poncho emblazoned along with his name. As the crowd vibrated to his opening song, their attention was soon redirected to the jumbotron, where charismatic Oakland resident Marshawn Lynch took over the screen. Lynch introduced each E-40 and Too Short, announcing their arrival on stage to deliver electrifying renditions of their hits including “Ghost Ride The Whip” and “Blow The Whistle”, igniting the audience with their infectious energy and undeniable stage presence .
The night was just starting, promising a marathon of unforgettable performances. Bun B brought the energy from the West Coast to the Midwest as Cedric The Entertainer virtually introduced us to iconic rapper Nelly taking the stage. With hits equivalent to “Hot In Here” and “EI”, Nelly kept the audience in suspense and emotion. The highlight then moved to the East Coast as Eve, the only female artist on the lineup, took the stage. Known as Ruff Ryders’ first lady, Eve captivated audiences together with her rousing performances of classics equivalent to “Who’s That Girl,” “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” and “Tambourine.”
After Philadelphia native Eve’s electrifying performances, the journey continued south to Atlanta, where the crowd was immersed in Ying Yang Twins’ iconic Y2K-era songs like “Salt Shaker” and “Get Low.” Despite the high-octane energy pulsing through the stadium, the night was not over yet. Moving seamlessly from Atlanta to Miami, the audience was introduced to Rick Ross by his “We The Best” co-star, DJ Khaled. Ross delivered a rousing set, specializing in his mainstream hits equivalent to “Hustlin'” and “BMF,” keeping the night moving and keeping the audience on their feet.
Given all the hits Drake and Rick Ross have had together, fans naturally assumed Drake was about to take the stage, but after the Miami native’s performance, the performance was limited to the jumbotron to receive a message from Houston’s Scarface. , which introduced the audience to Baytown, Texas rapper That Mexican OT. He performed his viral hit “Johnny Dang.”
Returning the highlight to his beloved Houston, Bun B took the moment to grace the stage with a strong performance of “Trill” in the thunderous presence of Le$, Slim Thug and Houston’s Lil Keke, whose records have served as a logo of the city’s culture. Continuing his tribute to the city’s wealthy musical heritage, Bun B delved into the archives of UGK’s groundbreaking album, , inviting the audience to a heartfelt performance of the poignant “One Day.” Accompanied by George Ryan Bingham, lead guitarist of the acclaimed TV series, the performance took on an ethereal feel as Bun B paid tribute to fallen legends equivalent to Pimp C, DJ Screw, Big Moe and Fat Pat. This touching moment was much more meaningful since it was the first performance following the premature death of Houston’s Big Pokey, who tragically died of a heart attack in June 2023.
After a brief break, Bun B himself took the stage to introduce Drake, who had long considered Houston his artistic home, since it was here, at Warehouse Live, that the artist first impressed and had his breakthrough. Drake kicked off his set with the infectious “N 2 Deep,” a nod to Bun B’s classic “Get Throwed” that blends old with recent. From there, he delved into his extensive discography, treating audiences to hits equivalent to “Energy” from , the anthemic “God’s Plan” from , and the iconic “Hotline Bling” from . The crowd was much more delighted when Drake performed “Rich Baby Daddy” from the album, culminating in a spectacular finale complete with a blinding light show and cascade of fireworks, marking the triumphant conclusion of the 2024 takeover.
As the evening drew to an in depth, Bun B graciously returned to the stage one last time, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to everyone in attendance, before launching right into a spectacular rendition of Outkast’s hit “International Players Anthem.” However, just when it seemed that the evening couldn’t get any more legendary, a surprise guest appeared on stage – none apart from DMC from Run DMC. The two hip-hop icons, accompanied by Bun B, placed on an electrifying performance, with Bun B wearing a cheeky “Bun DMC” T-shirt and adding a funny twist on an unforgettable moment.
Featuring never-before-seen hip-hop icons, this yr’s show was an enormous success, drawing the second-largest rodeo attendance this season (over 75,000 fans), just shy of Nickelback’s paid attendance of 75,036. While fans eagerly awaiting what the future holds, speculation is running rampant as to what Bun B has in store for 2025. With a wealth of talent still untapped and his takeover franchise reaching recent heights, there isn’t a doubt that the next installment guarantees to be his most spectacular yet. at the same time, he cemented his status as an elder statesman in the world of hip-hop extravaganzas.
Entertainment
An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit
Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.
Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”
She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.
Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.
On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”
One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.
Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.
Jeff Bezos’ fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, cropped a photograph of him in a jumpsuit and then set Instagram on fire with her look.https://t.co/n7YNGctQFE pic.twitter.com/DNKP2i9o9C
— Sean Joseph (@sjoseph_sports) December 2, 2024
When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.
Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”
Lauren Sanchez 2003 vs. Lauren Sanchez 2024
Nothing to see here, people, move on#LaurenSanchez pic.twitter.com/mgr4vj6mFq
— Occam was right (@OccamWasRight) November 21, 2024
Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”
Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.
Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.
Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.
Entertainment
Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape
India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.
“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”
Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.
Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.
Name:
India Shawn
Hometown:
Los Angeles
Artistic soundscape
Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric
The oldest musical memory
Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.
Influences
For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.
Creative process
Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”
Challenges and development
As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”
Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.
Current project
“There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”
Entertainment
ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence
With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is anticipated to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.
Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.
From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.
In case you missed it, take a take a look at 17 of the very best celebrity beauty moments from the week below.
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