Since 1984 MAC Cosmetics has a unbroken influence on the black community, providing us with essential tools and a variety of shades.

Think: their annual Glamour Ball VIVA— which has welcomed glam-clad guests like Mary J. Blige, Eve, Fantasia, Diana Ross, and more. Additionally, with its backstage presence at fashion weeks over time, with supermodels Naomi Campbell and Iman, MAC has proven to be accountable for the makeup behind a few of the biggest beauty moments in popular culture history — including Lil’ Kim’s archival metallic lipstick.

Now, as we have fun their fortieth anniversary during Fashion Week (where the brand will sponsor shows by Area, Kim Shui and Luar), we glance back on the legacy they built for black women.

“I think the brand, more than ever, is still rooted in what made MAC special from the beginning,” Aïda Moudachirou-Rebois, senior vice chairman and general manager of MAC, tells ESSENCE. “Artistry, inclusivity, culture… that was the heart of the brand, so that we could help people in our community who needed it the most.”

Despite the noise and competition in a saturated industry, MAC has remained the loudest within the room—largely due to its ability to take heed to its community. That means internally, too.

For MAC makeup professionals, Romero JenningsBeing with a brand for nearly 30 years means being heard. “I feel like I helped build and sustain that brand all those years ago,” he says. “Now, a lot of brands would say it’s on, but we had it from the beginning, which is why we had such a huge following of Black and brown people back then.”

Jennings recalls women from Harlem and the Bronx visiting MAC Studio Fix Powder Foundation because no other brand had their shade. “A lot of people would say it was their first time doing makeup because before you had to mix or the colors weren’t right or they were too light,” says Jennings, as a powdered Grace Jones and the Prince.

Meanwhile, lip pencils developed firstly, we use them to at the present time (as Uche Natorifavorite shade chestnut) alongside the lipsticks we crave like CD 96, gave black women the representation they deserve.

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Beyond products, MAC has built initiatives to support its teams and customers from inside. From participating in Black Beauty List to investing in funds, grants and creating internal secure spaces like Black At MAC and MAC Movement, the brand’s foundation is rooted not only in culture but in addition in influence. “We don’t have a ‘one size fits all’ approach because that’s kind of performative and a box-ticking thing,” says Moudachirou-Rebois.[We’re] “we really continue to strive to elevate culture in all its nuances.”

With 22% of MAC customers identifying as black (in comparison with the common 8% of U.S. luxury beauty consumers), the brand’s future is in our hands. “We don’t like to think of ourselves as a makeup brand, but as a cultural brand,” she says. “We have a responsibility to that consumer to really meet their needs.”

Happy Friday, folks. As the first weekend of September heralds a brand new season, the music world is heating up with fresh releases that set the tone for the coming months. With a mix of energetic tracks and soulful melodies, these latest tracks are the perfect strategy to end the week.

Today, Flo Milli rocks “Wet Dreams,” while Leon Bridges brings his signature smoothness to “Laredo.” A$AP Rocky and J.Cole team up on “Ruby Rosary,” raising anticipation for the upcoming album. Our roundup includes music from Megan Thee Stallion, Queen Naija, Durand Bernarr, Lola Brooke, and more.

Check out the best latest music of the week.

Lola Brooke ft. Jeremih – “No One Else”

Lola Brooke teams up with Jeremih on “No One Else,” mixing R&B and rap for a smooth, romantic vibe. Listen to this HERE.

Lil Wayne, Lil Yachty, Pharrell Williams, Doodles, Kyle Richh – “Can’t Hold Me Down”

Lil Wayne, Lil Yachty, and Pharrell Williams Drop Animated Single “Can’t Hold Me Down” Featuring Kyle Rich and Doodles, It’s a Dynamic Collaboration. Check It Out HERE.

Megan Thee Stallion from RM – “Neva Play”

Megan Thee Stallion and RM team up on “Neva Play,” combining their styles for a singular collaboration. Stream the song HERE.

Flo Milli ft. Coop & G – “Wet Dreams”

Flo Milli lights up the week with “Wet Dreams,” showcasing her daring, uncompromising style. Listen HERE.

A$AP Rocky with J. Cole – “Ruby Rosary”

A$AP Rocky and J. Cole Collaborate on Highly Anticipated Track “Ruby Rosary” Off Rocky’s Upcoming Album Don’t Be Dumb. Listen HERE.

Queen Naija – “Good Girls Finish Last”

This week Queen Naija released “Good Girls Finish Last,” a soulful anthem about love and resilience. Check it out HERE.

Durard Bernarr and Charlie Vettuno – “Where in the World is Randi’s Carmen!?”

Durand Bernarr and Charlie Vettuno Deliver New EP From Randi’s Where In The World Is Carmen!? Check It Out HERE.

Samara Tsin – “Chrome”

Today, Samara Cyn releases “Chrome,” offering an edgy, alternative vibe. Listen to it HERE.

Leon Bridges – “Laredo”

The eclectic musician offers a soulful latest track titled “Laredo,” which pairs his signature retro style with a contemporary twist. Listen to the track HERE.

If you are on the lookout for another excuse to sit up for fall — besides sweater, over-the-knee boots, and pumpkin spice weather — the NFL is back with a highly anticipated season of 2024 .

The year-long celebration, which kicked off on September 5, will highlight fresh music from superstars and emerging artists and highlight talent across all genres during the 2024-2025 NFL season. Fans can expect to listen to these songs on NFL platforms and broadcast partners, including NFL Network, NFL+, in-stadium during games and on social media channels.

The season kicks off with Flau’jae’s powerful anthem, “Came Out A Beast,” featuring the iconic Lil Wayne. The track, delivered by ROC Nation Distribution, brings a surge of energy that is predicted to fuel NFL games across the country.

Flau’jae is not just a rising star in the music world; she’s also a fierce competitor on and off the court. Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, she became the first McDonald’s All-American to affix the LSU women’s basketball team, where she helped win its first NCAA championship. Now, she’s taking that winning spirit and channeling it into her music profession.

“I’m excited for the NFL season to start and having my song at the top of the charts means a lot to me, especially next to a legend like Lil Wayne,” Flau’jae said. “I’m a competitor at heart, whether it’s on the field or in the studio, so I can’t wait for my music to bring that same energy to the game.”

Seth Dudowsky, head of music for the NFL, emphasized the critical role music plays in the sport, stating, “Music is an integral part of everything we do at the NFL, and this year’s Songs of the Season are designed to capture the energy and passion that defines the sport.” The initiative also supports the NFL’s platform for promoting social justice initiatives — an ongoing effort to raise Black voices and address issues affecting the Black community. In addition to Flau’jae’s hit, the playlist includes songs from artists reminiscent of Benny the Butcher, Rapsody and John B.