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Broccoli City Festival Returns to DC in a Big Way, With an Improved Venue, Elevated Vibes, and an Unrivaled Lineup of Artists – Essence

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WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 27: Megan Thee Stallion performs through the Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 27, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)

You asked and Broccoli City Festival the team accomplished the duty.

Washington’s premier music festival — showcasing the town’s best food, culture, businesses, and local talent — returned to Audi Field this past weekend. Thousands of fans packed the stands and field for the annual celebration, which featured a star-studded lineup including Megan Thee Stallion, Victoria Monét, Kaytranada, Issa Rae, Sexxy Red, Bryson Tiller, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Gunna, and more.

The weekend kicked off on Thursday with a kick-off event hosted by Broccoli City Festival and NPR. The event, which honored Kind regardsset the tone for what was to come, celebrating influential women and their contributions to the music and media industries. Not only was the atmosphere electric with anticipation for the weekend ahead, but the attractive dinner, held at La Vie on the Wharf, was crammed with sisterhood and solidarity.

As Saturday rolled around, the thrill only grew. The doors opened and we were treated to performances from a variety of national and local artists on the Converse and City stages. Sexxy Red, who performed earlier in the afternoon, brought a raw, fun, and uncompromising energy to the stage, performing viral hits like “Pound Town” and “SkeeYee.”

Broccoli City Festival returns to DC in a big way, with an improved venue, elevated vibes, and an unrivaled lineup of artists
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: Sexyy Red performs onstage during Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Later that night, the highlight of the festival was undoubtedly Megan Thee Stallion. Introduced by the all the time inspiring Issa Rae, who praised fellow sexy Megan for her “bars and body,” the atmosphere was charged with excitement. In true Rae style, she also announced her latest album, “Issa The Pony,” because, as she stated, “I’m not a pony yet.” This set the stage for an unforgettable performance from the stallion, herself.

Megan Thee Stallion didn’t disappoint, performing a series of fan favorites including “Savage,” “Hot Girl Summer,” and “Body,” mixing in high-energy anthems together with her latest releases.

Broccoli City Festival returns to DC in a big way, with an improved venue, elevated vibes and an unrivaled lineup of artists
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 27: Megan Thee Stallion performs onstage during Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 27, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

One of the very best performances of Sunday got here from Victoria Monét. Taking the stage after Kaytranada (who was upset that his performance was cut short), Monét captivated the audience together with her smooth vocals and dynamic stage presence. Performing GRAMMY Award-winning hits like “Moment” and “Experience,” she showcased her impressive range and undeniable talent. Her performance was the proper mix of sensuality and energy, and set the tone for Gunna to close out the show.

Broccoli City Festival returns to DC in a big way, with an improved venue, elevated vibes and an unrivaled lineup of artists
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: Victoria Monet performs through the Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)

One of essentially the most noticeable improvements this 12 months was the brand new Audi Field venue. The larger, roomier space provided a seamless experience for attendees. The layout was thoughtfully designed, with stages strategically placed to avoid overlapping sounds and provide festival goers with plenty of room to move around comfortably. The addition of seating in the brand new venue also really elevated the festival experience, making it easier to get around and take in all that the event had to offer.

It wouldn’t be appropriate to speak about Broccoli City Festival without touching on a taboo topic – the weather! The beautiful weather also played a significant role in the success of the festival and for the primary time in years, concert goers were treated to clear skies and warm temperatures, with no rain in sight. The sun added energy to the event, creating the proper backdrop for the performances and activities.

While the music was undoubtedly the star of the show, Broccoli City Festival 2024 offered rather more than simply incredible performances. The festival grounds were crammed with art installations, food vendors, and interactive experiences that showcased the range and creativity of the community. Local vendors offered a variety of delicious food options, from classic DC fare to international cuisine, ensuring there was something for everybody.

Broccoli City Festival returns to DC in a big way, with an improved venue, elevated vibes, and an unrivaled lineup of artists
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: A general view of the 2024 Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

The exhibitor area was buzzing with energy, offering a big selection of products and services that showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the community, similar to Spice Suite, SELF Handmade Incense, Honey Glow, KIN Apparel and Tooth Couture. Attendees were able to discover a myriad of exhibitors offering all the things from handmade jewelry and unique fashion pieces to artisan foods and natural skincare products. Each exhibitor brought something unique to the festival, creating a marketplace that was as exciting and dynamic because the music itself. This rigorously curated experience allowed festivalgoers to support small businesses and discover latest favorites, making the event a true celebration of culture and community.

Art installations were one other hit, providing visually stunning and thought-frightening works that added to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. Interactive experiences similar to photo booths and virtual reality stations offered attendees unique ways to engage with the festival and create lasting memories.

Broccoli City Festival returns to DC in a big way, with an improved venue, elevated vibes and an unrivaled lineup of artists
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: A general view of the 2024 Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Broccoli City Festival has all the time been about greater than just music; it’s also about community and sustainability. This 12 months was no different, with a strong give attention to eco-friendly practices and community involvement. Recycling stations were strategically placed throughout the venue, and there have been a number of initiatives to reduce the festival’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the festival partnered with local organizations to promote health and wellness, providing resources and information for attendees.

Reflecting on the weekend, I can truthfully say that Broccoli City Festival 2024 was one of the very best music festivals I actually have ever experienced. From the incredible performances to the seamless organization and beautiful weather, every aspect of the festival got here together to create an unforgettable experience.

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

How Diana Ross’s Halloween look was created Uche Moxama – essence

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Courtesy of Cindy Romero

Halloween is the perfect time of 12 months to advertise an icon. This 12 months, for instance, Beyoncé morphed into funk rock star Betty Davis and Coco Jones referenced Donna Summer’s album covers. And for the content creator Uche Moxamrecreation of the 1969 Diana Ross film.I’ll wash this guy out of my hair” on the duvet, the immediate answer was “yes.”

How Diana Ross Uche Moxama's Halloween look was created
FRANK CARROLL/NBCU PHOTO BANK

“I grew up listening to great artists: Whitney, Diana, Donna Summer, the list goes on,” Moxam tells ESSENCE. “Not only were they the powerhouse of their decade, but they also provided representation of beautiful, strong and talented black women who were rarely represented in the media at the time.”

For a protracted time, Moxam had been waiting for the suitable moment to rework into Diana Ross’s mountain of curls (as if released from a set of very large curlers) from the GIT Broadway special. However, probably the most iconic a part of the look was also probably the most difficult to create. “The biggest challenge was supposed to be the hair,” she says, contacting a hair stylist Alan Schober.

How Diana Ross Uche Moxama's Halloween look was created

“Alana managed to arrange each bundle of hair individually and artistically to achieve the effect shown in Diana’s film,” he says. “I wanted the hair texture to be three-dimensional, not just using Photoshop or a black board.” Using a 65-inch cardboard as a base and more bundles of hair than she could count interwoven with Moxam’s real hair, Schober turned her costume right into a masterpiece.

How Diana Ross Uche Moxama's Halloween look was created

“I focus on a natural look [for everyday beauty] but Halloween is truly a time to become someone else,” she says.

However, Uche Moxam’s makeup veered away from Ross’s neutral lip with glazed lips and cheeks sculpted with blush, becoming an icon in its own right. “I’ve been wanting to bring it to life for some time and this year I managed to do it.”

How Diana Ross Uche Moxama's Halloween look was created


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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The best beauty moments of Halloween 2024 – essence

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@janellemonae / Instagram

Celebrities have been known to bring creative costumes every Halloween. From area of interest cosplay to Heidi Klum’s annual Halloween party with high-budget SFX makeup and rugged references, stars never fail to live as much as their past looks. And last night turned out to be no different.

For example, when Janelle Monaé called a surreal version of ET, it took a team of five SFX artists to create the life-size costume. Lizzo has 4 looks starting from red body paint to scissored skin: the set includes an Ozempic pack, a honey bunny, Edward Scissorhands, and a never-rejected face card.

Although Doja Cat as a sunflower is a reference to the 2001 video game, Halloween will not be limited to fictional characters. Beyoncé took on the persona of funk-rock singer Betty Davis, Winnie Harlow referenced Diana Ross, and Coco Jones referenced Donna Summer’s album covers. Meanwhile, Megan Thee Stallion proved that Halloween lasts all 12 months long by dressing up within the anime cosplay she probably would ever wear.

Below, ESSENCE rounds up our favourite beauty moments from Halloween 2024.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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WNBA earnings are rising, but will they be enough? The real story behind the numbers – the essence

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – OCTOBER 06: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces brings the ball up the court against Betnijah Laney-Hamilton #44 of the New York Liberty in the first quarter of Game 4 of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs Semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 6, 2024 . in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Liberty defeated the Aces 76-62, winning the series three games to 1. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this image, User consents to the terms of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

When Angel Reese signed with the Chicago Sky and was chosen seventh overall in the 2024 WNBA draft, it entered a league completely different than five years ago. The compensation landscape has modified dramatically – but let’s be honest about whether these changes are truly transformational or simply an incremental step towards what these athletes deserve.

The raw numbers tell the story of progress. 2024 WNBA season boasts the highest earnings in the history of the leagueand top players will be capable of earn as much as $241,984. Supermax pay has increased 94% since 2019, when the league’s elite players reached $121,500. Even minimum wage for newbies increased to $64,154 – greater than double the amount in 2019. But that is where it gets complicated. While The WNBA salary cap has reached $1.4 million per team in 2024, The NBA salary cap is $140 million. Yes, you read that right. And before anyone makes the “but revenue” argument, let’s acknowledge that even after accounting for differences in league revenue, WNBA players receive about 33% of the league’s revenue, while NBA players receive about 50%.

For most WNBA players, to make it work, meaning playing year-round. According to AP, about 50% of players also compete abroad during the WNBA off-season. Stars like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson can fetch top dollar in each markets, but this double duty comes at a value – physical fatigue, time away from family and the mental strain of never really having an off-season season.

Marketing dollars tell a totally different story. League Collective labor agreement for 2020 included provisions for increased marketing opportunities, but in 2023, only a handful of players have signed deals with major brands. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s NIL valuation has reached $3.1 million before she even declared for the WNBA draft – highlighting each the potential and the disparity in how women’s basketball talent is valued.

The racial dynamics are particularly striking. In the league where over 60% of gamers are black womenthe conversation around fair pay is not only about gender – it’s about racial equality in sports. When we discuss WNBA salaries, we’re talking about undervaluing the work of Black women, and it is a story that reverberates far beyond the basketball court.

The league has taken steps in the right direction. The latest CBA introduces progressive elements similar to fully paid maternity leave, improved travel accommodations and potential income sharing opportunities. These changes come after years of player activism, led by women like Angel McCoughtry and Nneka Ogwumike who weren’t afraid to demand higher.

But let’s be clear, higher than before does not imply ok. When the WNBA minimum salary is barely above median household income in the USwe’re not only talking about the gender pay gap – we’re talking about the fundamental devaluation of girls’s skilled sport.

The query is not whether WNBA players should be grateful for these raises. The query is why, in 2024, we still have to make the case for fair compensation for skilled athletes who consistently produce world-class results, drive civil conversations, and encourage the next generation of athletes.

Pay rises are the starting, not the end. As viewership increased, the 2024 WNBA Finals saw: Viewership increase by 115%. in comparison with the previous 12 months – the pace of real changes is gaining momentum. The numbers are growing, yes, but until they reflect the true value these athletes bring to the game, our work isn’t done.

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