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

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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 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.
Celebrity Coverage
Shedeur Sanders responds after the son of the NFL coach apologizes for Day Day Prank – Essence

Boulder, CO – April 19: was the playmaker in Colorado Buffaloes, Shedeur Sanders, looks at the retirement ceremony in front of the black and golden spring game on Field Field Field 19 April 2025 in Boulder in Colorado. (Photo Dustin Bradford/Getty Images for Onit)
The road to NFL is full of excitement, nerves – and for Shedeur Sanders, unnecessary dispersion that nobody has seen.
Shedeur, who’s the son of the NFL legend and coach Colorado Deion Sanders, fell victim to unripe joke During the NFL sketch in 2025, which must be a momentous opportunity for him and his family. But this moment quickly overshadowed Jax Ulbrich, son of the defense coordinator of Atlanta Falcons Jeff Ulbrich.
When Sanders waited to listen to his name, which was called during the project, he received what he thinks was a changing life from the Saints of New Orleans. Sanders answered in the surroundings of family and friends, only for the caller (whom we later learned that Ulbrich) revealed that it was all a joke, telling him that “he would have to wait a little longer” before he suddenly disconnects.
Since then, Jax Ulbrich has published a public apology for his actions.
“On Friday evening I made an amazing mistake,” Ulbrich wrote on Instagram. “Shedeur, what I did was completely unforgivable, embarrassing and shameful. I’m so sorry that I took your moment, it was selfish and childish.”
The moment, captured to the video by brother Shedeur, Deion Sanders Jr. And he published in well -advanced media, he shows that Shedeur looked confused, asking, asking:
In addition to immaturity, there may be a much bigger problem here. NFL prospects are received by private phone numbers especially for communication with league staff during the project. Somehow Ulbrich gained access to this private channel, asking serious questions on the project of security protocols. Atlanta Falcons Since then, he apologized.
Black athletes like Sanders are already in the face of sufficient control. And let’s be honest – they were reacted in another way, the headlines would concern his attitude, not with a joke.
Despite the proven fact that many analysts are expected as the talent of the first round, Sanders unexpectedly slipped into the sketch, finally chosen by Cleveland Browns in the fifth round. While this development has change into one of the biggest stories of the sketch, Call Call added an unnecessary layer of humiliation to already difficult experience.
But Sanders? He got a high path.
Talking to the media after calling, he didn’t allow the wit to define his night.
“It didn’t really affect me,” he said. “I do not feed negativity. This is, of course, the guy was childish … but everyone does children’s things here and there.”
His mastery stood out. And truthfully, this isn’t a surprise. The son of “Prime Time” knows something about coping with the light of headlights and remaining grounding when he has the most significant.
In an interview with Essence, just before the NFL Deioners project, Sanders spoke about his suggestions for his sons about their future NFL and the way deeply rooted in faith. “The first thing we are talking about is that you will go where God wants you to go because he has already seen the path,” says Sanders. “Where we want to go, it may not be the right place, but where he wants us to go, it is certainly the right place.”
This incident is a reminder of additional obstacles that black athletes often encounter during their skilled journeys. What must be a pure holiday of exertions and Sanders’ achievements was partly overshadowed by an act of disrespect that he is anticipated to be kindly forgiven.
Celebrity Coverage
Coco Jones wants more – essence

Coco Jones, “Why not more?” 2025. Credit photo: Cindy Romero
The Coco Jones journey was about unchanging perseverance. At the age of 27, the singer, the writer of the lyrics and actress had a profession lasting almost twenty years. From her first role in Disney, to her groundbreaking performance as Hilary Banks in Peacock’s, she maintains consistency through all this. As an artist, her long and tedious path reached some extent in 2024, when she received the primary Grammy award for a stupendous ballad “,”ICU. “Each of her previous experience within the industry – whether good or bad – put the muse for her debut studio album,
Traditionally, the primary album is the correct introduction to the masses, nevertheless it was different for Sige Def Jam, since it was within the focal point long before its release. Regardless, she was still extremely essential for the singer, because he served as a really perfect time for her evolution. “[This album] It means growth and opportunity to learn more about yourself, “said Jones.” When I see people’s reactions and opinions when I perform the title song, and when I live in this album, I will have new apparitions about myself and who I want to become the next one. “
As for the person to evolve – the sky is the limit. Appearing in several projects within the film, television and theater, this multi -fanet can result in what he means. Asked why the world was best for the world to listen to this latest work tank, Jones replied: “I am my most difficult critic, so I wanted to do things that I felt that they were fresh and inspiring – and it takes a lot of time and effort to find these things.”
“So I feel that you give your creatively and then leave it all on the table,” she continued. “But it was definitely one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done, and I’m sure that when working on my next project, it will be more different and more different obstacles – but it’s worth it. Everything is good is worth the challenge.”
In the case of 14 album songs, you’ll be able to hear the meticulous Jones process. Coming in only over 40 minutes, it occurs from London to Da Track, Future and YG Marley, which helps, amongst others, to chop out the album title, together with the production of Stargate, Cardiak and Wu10. Records equivalent to “Taste”, “Here We Go (UH OH)” and “The most beautiful project” show the artist’s versatility, in addition to her progress as a singer.
“I think that I have become stronger as the author of texts,” said Jones Essence. “I think that as an artist, thinking about the whole world, topic and line, I became more purposeful, as well as on the production side, I was a little more practical.”
While the debut edition is the moment to have a good time, Jones has fled for the time being, preparing for the longer term. Now, with a brand new partnership with the long-lasting Vodka brand Gray gooseDuring the beginning of a concert tour in North America, and filming for the fourth and last season of the Set, the winner of the NAACP Image award, behaves as the very best priority, since the balance is crucial to survive on this continuously changing entertainment industry. “I’m really big in therapy,” she said. “Healthy eating and sleeping in a reasonable time gives you energy so that you can give it a crowd – it is important to treat your body with respect.”
If you look deeper at Jones’s profession, it is straightforward to acknowledge how she achieved this level of success. The years of concentrated work and dedication to her craft – whether it’s music, acting or the rest that she thinks – led to the lady we see today and makes the title of the album even more suitable. It is just not really a matter, but slightly a press release, because Coco Jones has a lot to pass.
Celebrity Coverage
Travis Hunter’s father receives the court’s consent to personally be a witness to NFL sleep.

Indianapolis, Indiana – February 28: Defensive Back Travis Hunter from Colorado Buffalos poses a portrait at the Indiana Convention Center on February 27, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)
When Travis Hunter passes through the NFL Draft scene in Green Bay tonight, he may have a unique supporter in the crowd. In fact, probably the most vital supporter of all of them.
Travis Hunter sr. (Alias, Dad Travisa Jr.), who was on the trial period and under home care, just had a rare break. The judge gives him permission to leave Florida and travel to Wisconsin to personally see the lifetime of his son changing life, According to palm beach post.
He left the emotional night of Heisman Travis in December last yr, but fortunately this time he wouldn’t have to look from afar. Hunter Sr. It will be in Green Bay for the first night of the draft before he returns to Boynton Beach on Friday. When he’s there, he may have to stick to his hotel and Lambeau Field, where there’s a draft.
Travis Jr. He gained a brand in Colorado as certainly one of the best two-way players in university football-now it might be the five best decisions. His growth in university football ended the Heismman trophy last season, the ceremony that his father couldn’t participate, regardless that he was released from custody just a few days earlier.
According to palm beach postHunter Sr. He made a selfless decision to stay at home in order that his mother – grandmother Travis Jr. Shirley Hunter – she could participate in a New York ceremony as an alternative.
“He just wanted me to go in his place because I wasn’t [to New York] And he wanted me to go instead of myself, “Shirley told journalists after the Heismman ceremony.
The absence was not lost on Travis Jr., who devoted a part of his acceptance speech directly to his father watching from afar.
“And I want to tell my father. He is not here to be able to do it, but I know you are watching on TV,” said Hunter during his emotional address. “Dad, I love you. All the things you went through, old, look at your older son. I did it for you, old.”
He continued: “All the time when you didn’t see me. When the time when you came to see my games, from probably not seeing two games in high school, after watching me on TV every weekend and coming to me, I mean a lot to me. I know that you want to be here and you can’t, but trust me, I have you. I bring you a trophy home. I love you.”
Now, just a few months later, they are going to finally be able to share the moment they each waited for.
Travis sr. He serves a trial period after arrest in 2023 on charges of weapons and medicines. He frolicked in stopping last autumn, losing lots of his son’s biggest student moments.
Travis’s path Jr. It was not typical to NFL. The headers should be when he rejected offers from traditional power programs to play HBCu Jackson State, following the DEIM Sanders coach when few expected such a move from a five -star recruit. When Sanders took the coaching position in Colorado, Hunter followed him, proving that his commitment was not only at college, but a trainer who believed in his unique skills.
In Colorado Hunter he still stood out as a rare two-way player, presenting elite skills each in the turnover and a wide receiver-position, which normally requires completely different sets of skill. Scouts were surprised by his route and the ability to read the game in defense, calling him certainly one of the most enjoyable draft perspectives.
Tonight, when Hunter is preparing to enter the skilled ranks, he may have emotional support, which was lacking in too many cases of his milestone. After years of watching from a distance, his father will finally see his son’s dreams.
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