Chris Brown's Emotional Michael Jackson Tribute

Chris Brown's Emotional Michael Jackson Tribute

Chris Brown was denied a place in the BET Awards' Michael Jackson tribute last year -- presumably because of the incident with Rihanna only a few months earlier -- but he took the stage tonight to honor the one-year anniversary of his idol's death. What happened next was so much more than a slick dance routine... Here's what you had to say: Shalanna commented: "I am so proud of Chris Brown and his performance. So often entertainers guard their humanity at all costs, but he let it show." Nikki wrote: "Forgiveness is one thing. but when we actively promote this kind of artist, what message are we sending to our young men and women, and to the wider community?"
Exclusive: Somi's Video for 'Prayer to the Saint...'

Exclusive: Somi's Video for 'Prayer to the Saint...'

Check out the new video from Afro-soul singer Somi's latest album, "If the Rains Come First." In the video for the "Prayer to the Saint of the Brokenhearted," the East African artist, who now calls Harlem her home, creates an ode to the legendary neighborhood by filming in front of the Apollo Theater and in the uptown music venue, the Shrine. At the forefront of a new roster of African artists grabbing attention here in America, Somi effortlessly blends her global and sonic experiences for a syrupy sweet listening experience...
Flashback Fridays: The Pioneer, Russell Simmons

Flashback Fridays: The Pioneer, Russell Simmons

This week, Russell Simmons received a Lifetime Achievement award from the prestigious National Arts Club. Everyone knows how important Simmons' role was to the growth and development of hip hop, not only as a music, but as a cultural movement. His fingerprints are everywhere. In music, he discovered unknowns that would go on to not only become successful and respected artists, but also icons who significantly influenced later generations, such as LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and of course, Run DMC. In clothing, he launched Phat Farm and Baby Phat, way before the cliche of hip hop clothing labels was conceived...