Entertainment

Will Smith Doesn’t Need A Redemption Tour – Andscape

Published

5 months ago

June 29, 2024

IAM

Since actor Will Smith stormed the Oscars stage in March 2022 and punched comedian Chris Rock on national television, creating one of the vital unforgettable and bizarre moments in popular culture history, the actor has been one of the vital polarizing figures in Hollywood. While most individuals can agree and understand that the slap was an act of violence that needed accounting in the mean time it occurred, the extent of vitriol, anger and resentment towards Smith was probably the most common point of debate.

Two years later, as Smith celebrates success with Martin Lawrence and back to music on Sunday, the slap remains to be being weighed within the court of public opinion. But the film’s success reminds us that Smith would never lose the support of black people, especially in light of the blatant double standards he faced.

Smith is one among the brightest stars Hollywood has ever seen. She dropped $100 million movies before it became the norm. In the ’90s, Smith had a top-rated TV show, chart-topping music singles, and created a few of the biggest box office hits every summer. That made Smith one of the vital beloved figures in popular culture, especially black culture.

However, this relationship with Black fans became strained in later years when it was once a person he gave his blessing playing legendary boxer Muhammad Ali would have involved some bizarre and questionable profession turns. He has made a slew of poorly received movies, including in 2013and his front-page headlines were mostly reserved for rumors about his marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith and speculation about his ties to Scientology. Throughout the years, Smith has strived to keep up the respect and prominence he enjoyed in his prime years of recognition.

“I think Black people understand that the more successful you are in Black Hollywood, the more isolated you are from Black people and Black culture,” said Saida Grundy, a professor of sociology at Boston University. “We still love you, but we understand that this is part of Hollywood.”

In 2017, Smith underwent a serious profession overhaul when he officially launched his Instagram page with a rigorously curated series of viral videos, inspiring messages and insight into the charismatic Will Smith we grew up with. Even as Smith and Pinkett Smith talked about their marriage in moments of web-breaking drama that nobody asked for, he still struggled to regain his box office dominance. Still, the genius of his social media team (and bestselling memoirs) maintained this bond together with his fans.

And then the Oscars got here.

Actor Will Smith, winner of the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his role in , attends the Vanity Fair 2022 Academy Awards reception following the 94th Academy Awards at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California, March 27, 2022.

PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

Smith entered the 2022 Oscars in March as the percentages-on favorite. He became the sixth black man to win best actor for his role as tennis player Venus and Serena Williams’ father, Richard, in . The film was a transparent Oscar push that had eluded Smith, and his win gave the impression of a foregone conclusion, the culmination of a many years-long series. But as you understand, something went mistaken.

Rock joked about Pinkett Smith, comparing her hair to Demi Moore’s trendy hairstyle. Will walked as much as the stage and punched Rock before shouting the now infamous line, “Keep my wife’s name out of your fucking mouth.” And tens of millions of individuals were shocked.

It was one among the strangest, most unexpected, and most shocking moments in such a public, celebrity-filled space. Even now, watching it again, it looks like artificial intelligence. The Slap was greater than only a viral moment. It was a cultural storm. Even Smith’s most ardent fans would must admit he did something mistaken. Yes, Rock made a joke about his wife. Yes, there appears to be some legitimate bad blood lurking beneath the surface. But it’s hard—if not inconceivable—to defend Smith’s antics.

Then the backlash poured in, and it became clear that, regardless of how mistaken Smith was, double standards and racial politics were inevitably going to be the elephant within the room. And if there’s one thing that may make Black people rally around one other Black person—especially one who hasn’t offended Black people as an entire—it’s the presence of double standards and mistreatment due to that person’s blackness.

“White supremacy has always worked by associating bad manners, inappropriate behavior and violence with the people it oppresses,” Grundy said. “There was something disturbing to them about a Black man having the freedom to walk on that stage. We understand the unspoken.”

When director Judd Apatow I tweeted and deleted it that Smith could have “killed” Rock with a line like “It’s pure, uncontrollable rage and violence,” or when the comedian Posted by Amy Schumer that she still felt “triggered and traumatized” days later, gave the impression of overreactions. And for black people, they gave the impression of overreactions based on a history of racial politics that marks black men as cruelly aggressive, yes, even when others Black people were gathering.

Smith was mistaken, however the words used to explain what happened made black people wonder if the identical words can be used to explain a white man who did the identical. one other Oscar ban — Smith won’t give you the option to attend the ceremony for 10 years — also exposed double standards in light of who’s banned and threatened. Smith’s name now appears on an inventory of convicted sex offenders akin to former film producer Harvey Weinstein and comedian Bill Cosby. He can be not on the list of men accused of molesting women.

Actors Martin Lawrence (left) and Will Smith (right) attend the Bad Boys Miami premiere day celebration on the Perez Art Museum Miami on June 6 in Miami.

Aleksander Tamargo/Getty Images

So when was Smith purported to be fired this summer, after his first full-blown attempt at a summer blockbuster because the slapstick, publications quickly revisited the incident, running headlines just like the one from Variety who wondered if fans are willing to “forgive” his slap from two years ago. The questions were accompanied by box office projections that the film would earn between $30 and $45 million in its opening week. The film exceeded those projections and grossed $56 million.

It’s one other reminder of the disconnect between the media, Hollywood and black audiences, especially in the case of how we perceive Smith, his star power and his slap within the face.

While Hollywood may not have been able to forgive Smith, black audiences showed that we’ve moved on from a difficult moment two years ago. If you wish proof, look no further than the undeniable fact that black viewers made up 44% of the audience . Smith addressed those viewers throughout the film’s premiere, surprising the audience mostly in black cinemas and appears in black establishments akin to on SiriusXM. It doesn’t hurt that Will’s latest hit can be a return to a franchise that has all the time been geared toward black viewers, a franchise that began with two of the largest black TV stars of the ’90s and has all the time resonated with black viewers. The same black viewers who largely bashed and criticized Smith for The Slap and moved on.

Is Hollywood able to forgive Will Smith? It doesn’t matter in any respect. He has the support of the Black fans who were already there. And he’s clearly regained his status as a summer blockbuster star.

DavidDennis Jr. is a senior author at Andscape and the creator of the award-winning book “The Movement Made Us: A Father, a Son, and the Legacy of a Freedom Ride.” David is a graduate of Davidson College.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com

Entertainment

Kendrick Lamar Releases Surprise Album ‘GNX’; group chats are going crazy

Published

2 hours ago

November 22, 2024

IAM

Kendrick Lamar, Kendrick Lamar GNX, GNX, GNX album, K-Dot, K-Dot GNX, theGrio.com

There are few things more exciting than receiving an infinite barrage of text messages at the very same time in numerous group chats. This normally implies that something vital has happened in popular culture. Well, the exact same thing happened about noon on November 22, within the yr of our Lord two thousand and twenty-four. Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, higher often called Kendrick Lamar, released the album “GNX”, nod towards Buick Grand National Regal GNXa rare muscle automobile released in 1987 – which also happens to be the yr Kendrick was born.

“GNX” is coming to the tip of what has been a banner yr for Kendrick Lamar. From epic diss records geared toward Drake, to creating the largest song of his profession (and a Drake diss track) on “Not Like Us”, to the “Pop Out” concert streaming live to tell the tale Amazon Prime, Kendrick won this yr. He even received seven Grammy nominations, mostly for “Not Like Us.” And this victory will proceed in the brand new yr. In September, it was announced that Kendrick would stay Super Bowl 2025 headliner will happen in New Orleans. This announcement sparked some controversy and comments from several New Orleans legends similar to Juvenile and most notably Lil Wayne, who felt disrespected; Kendrick immediately refers to this topic within the opening song of the album (all stylized in lower case), “wacced out murals”.

The thing is, Kendrick didn’t sleep for many of 2024. And then, while the remaining of us were minding our own business, listening to other albums that had just dropped, like Ice Cube’s “Man Down,” I began receiving text after text… and I knew that would only mean that something vital happened.

At this point in my life (and possibly even yours), Kendrick Lamar releases are a drop-everything-and-listen event. I immediately went to the streaming service, launched “GNX” and pressed “Play”.

I need to admit that the primary time I heard the album I used to be a bit confused. Kendrick has probably never been more popular or famous; if there was ever a time to drag a Kanye West and release his own version of “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” – an album largely produced as Kanye’s best and most representative of Kanye’s greatness – now could be the time. “GNX” has a far more modern West Coast vibe and is certainly more for his die-hard fans than anyone who just began gaining attention due to his beef with Drake. Maybe that was the purpose; possibly not.

Either way, I can imagine that folks whose favorite lines are “OV-Ho” won’t be immediately thrilled. I wasn’t immediately blown away (though very amused by how sensitive Kendrick is to what people say about him on social media, well, everyone), but as is all the time the case with Kendrick albums, repeated listens are likely to correct any immediate monotony that I even have about his projects. For example, now that I’ve listened to it just a few times, I can not wait to listen to black college bands playing “tv off” style, which seems like a cousin of “Not Like Us.” The Shoot, Bayou Classic, which also takes place yearly in New Orleans on Thanksgiving Day, stands out as the first time we hear a band playing “TV off.”

Since the album didn’t come out long enough to be reviewed, group chats and social media were abuzz with immediate reactions. This is the a part of music releases I really like, where everyone seems to be listening to the identical thing, offering premature takes that will not even delay the following day. I’m not different; I’m sure I’ll say something about this album that can sound silly by Monday. Shoot, I can have already done it. But that is what happens when great artists release music. We spend time with others after which we refer to them, analyze them, criticize them, praise them, destroy them and let all our prejudices fly free. Love it.

It’s value noting that certainly one of Drake’s diss tracks that did not appear during last summer’s fracas was titled “The Heart Part 6,” and was an apparent try to usurp Kendrick’s pre-album practice of removing a non-album song titled “The Heart.” Well, Kendrick has a song on his recent album called, you guessed it, “The Heart, Pt. 6,” which I feel will probably be released soon Drake. Good job, Kenny.

Argue.

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com

Entertainment

New music this week: Tyla, Lola Brooke, Coco Jones and more – Essence

Published

2 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Happy Friday, people! Whether you are drinking a warm beverage or preparing for a fun-filled weekend, this week’s latest music releases set the tone. From sensual R&B melodies to powerful hip-hop anthems, these songs have something for everybody.

Coco Jones leads the pack along with her seasonal album, and Tyla offers a heartfelt change of tone with “Tears.” Miguel’s smooth “Always Time” and Jorja Smith’s tender “Stay Another Day” showcase R&B at its finest, while Lola Brooke and Killer Mike turn up the warmth on “Go To Yo Head” and “Warryn’s Groove,” respectively. Today’s list also includes music from Eric Bellinger, Coi Leray, Blxst and more.

Below you possibly can read our list of latest products.

Coco Jones – “Coco by the Fireplace”

Coco Jones releases a warm, soulful album that evokes the comfy atmosphere of a night by the fireplace, showcasing her wealthy vocals and emotional storytelling. Listen to this HERE.

This week's best new music: Tyla, Lola Brooke, Coco Jones and more

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Tyla – “Tears”

In collaboration with COKE, South African sensation Tyla delivers “Tears,” a heartfelt ballad that highlights her vocal skills and emotional depth, marking a departure from her usual upbeat style. Check it out HERE.

Lola Brooke – “Go to Your Head”

Lola Brooke’s “Go To Yo Head” is an assertive anthem with strong beats and confident lyrics, solidifying her presence within the hip-hop scene. Check it out HERE.

Miguel – “It’s Always Time”

Miguel returns with “Always Time”, combining his signature smooth vocals with a up to date R&B beat, exploring themes of affection and patience. Hear this HERE.

Lila Iké ft. Joey Bada$$ – “Fry the Plantain”

Lila Iké teams up with Joey Bada$$ on “Fry Plantain,” fusing reggae beats with hip-hop elements for a must-see track. Check it out HERE.

Jorja Smith – “Stay One More Day”

Jorja Smith delivers “Stay Another Day,” a soulful performance that captures the longing and warmth of a brand new season. Listen to this HERE.

Eric Bellinger ft. Oxlade – “Shooting Star”

Fresh off the discharge of his latest one albumEric Bellinger teams up with Oxlade on “Shooting Star,” a seamless collaboration that blends R&B with Afrobeat influences to create a mesmerizing melody. Hear this HERE.

Killer Mike ft. Ty Dolla $ign – “Warryn’s Groove”

In the digital version of Killer Mike Songs for sinners and saintsthe rapper collaborates with Ty Dolla $ign on the song “Warryn’s Groove.” Listen to the song HERE.

Coi Leray – “The heart doesn’t lie”

“Heart Don’t Lie” by Coi Leray is a catchy track that mixes pop sensibilities with honest lyrics about love and vulnerability. Stream HERE.

Amber Mark – “Wait So Yeah”

Amber Mark’s “Wait So Yeah” combines R&B with electronic elements, highlighting her versatility and dynamic sound. Check it out HERE.

Blxst, K CAMP and DeJ Loaf – “Make Room”

Today, singer Blxst collaborates with K CAMP and DeJ Loaf on “Make Room.” Listen to the brand new song HERE.

Camper ft. Tone Stith – “Waiting On You”

Camper and Tone Stith join forces on a brand new track that showcases their vocal chemistry and songwriting skills. Listen to this HERE.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com

Entertainment

Serena Williams is cutting short divorce talks for a second time after the couple reunited and put months of rumors to rest

Published

5 hours ago

November 22, 2024

IAM

Serena Williams and her husband Alexis Ohanian are still doing well despite months of unconfirmed divorce rumors.

On November 17, Williams and the Reddit co-founder took a walk down memory lane and tested one another by asking questions on themselves and their family in a recent promotional ad. The couple ate a few of their favorite meals and meanwhile checked their glucose levels using Hello Lingo, a glucose monitoring device.

Nearly five minutes into the recording, Williams tested her husband’s memory by asking, “Who said I love you first?”

Ohanian, who shares two daughters, Olimpia and Adira, with the tennis legend, responds quickly by saying, “Mmm,” before writing his answer on the board.

Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian recall who said “I love you” first amid divorce rumors. (Photo: Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)

“It’s like ‘The Newlywed Game,'” Williams said, writing down her answer, referring to the mid-Nineteen Sixties show “The Newlywed Game,” which tested couples who had been married for lower than two years to see if how much they learn about their relationship. amplifier.

Both Williams and Ohanian turn the board over to reveal their answers and, quite shockingly, they received two different answers. Ohanian wrote that Williams said it first, but Williams claims it was Ohanian.

“Come now. Are you going to lie about this? he declared to Williams, who responded with a laugh: “I said I would be honest.”

“That’s not an honest answer,” Ohanian continued. “I still keep in mind that phone call. Oh, you realize I felt the same, but you certainly said it first.

Williams joked: “My glucose levels were high. I ate some ice cream, my glucose level was too high. Then I tell this guy and I feel like saying things I would not normally say. The moment ended with Williams replaying how she told Ohanian those three special words.

Of course, there was no shortage of reactions from fans who showed their love for the couple and how well they interact of their normal element.

One YouTube commenter he wrote“It’s great to see Serena and Alexis in this normal environment, they are so lovely and have great charisma. I love them even more now and I feel great chemistry between them.”

Someone else said: “I liked this part. They seem to really like each other.”

However, as rumors swirled about problems of their marriage, one fan was confused by the video shared on Instagram.

“I thought I read that they got divorced?” he wrote one person in Williams’ comment section.

Someone else also addressed the rumors, writing: “Where are the haters who said divorce was imminent? Sometimes people will be crazy. Seriously, how are you going to even start assuming things like that about people you have never met?

We got married here 7 years ago. Now we will take these two out for donuts. Happy anniversary 🎉 Thank you for giving me two of the best people we’ve got ever met. You are a tremendous mom. I’m very glad to have met you @serenawilliams @olympiaohanian @adiraohanian pic.twitter.com/5ntPujrYDh

— Alexis Ohanian 🇦🇲 (@alexisohanian) November 17, 2024

This summer, fans began speculating that Williams and her seven-year marriage to Ohanian were in trouble after they noticed she hadn’t posted from him on her social media pages in some time.

Moreover, Ohanian was noticeably absent from the June premiere of the documentary “In the Arena: Serena Williams” and was also absent from her side at the Met Gala in May.

But they got back together this summer after they attended the Paris Olympics with their daughter Olympia in July.

Among the many viral moments spent with the Ohanian family, she organizes: umbrella for his wife and the European commentator – who didn’t realize he was her husband – and called Ohanian Serena’s “umbrella holder”.

The tech guru reacted to the moment hilariously by snapping a photo of himself holding an umbrella over himself and his daughter.

Ohanian joked, “I am also a personal Olympia umbrella owner. Sidebar: You all set the bar too low for me and celebrity daddies only get flowers for *admitting* they have kids.”

The proud dad is probably also Adira’s personal umbrella holder.