by Kandiss Edwards

April 11, 2025

Young, Gifted, And Black Yale Students Raise $3M For New App

Series aims to be more than aesthetically pleasing superficial content.

Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, juniors at Yale University, have raised $3 million in just 14 days to fund their startup, Series, an AI-powered social networking app designed to foster meaningful connections and challenge platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram.

The duo, who co-host the podcast The Founder Series, created the app after recognizing a gap in how digital platforms help people connect. Series focuses on facilitating authentic introductions rather than accumulating likes, followers, or engagement metrics.

“Social media is great for broadcasting, but it doesn’t necessarily help you meet the right people at the right time,” Johnson said in an interview with Entrepreneur magazine.

Series connects users through AI “friends” who communicate via iMessage and assist in making introductions. Users input specific needs—whether looking for co-founders, mentors, collaborators, or investors—and the AI facilitates introductions based on mutual value. The concept draws comparisons to LinkedIn but with a more personal experience.

“You’re posting pictures on Instagram, you’re posting videos on TikTok, and you’re posting job posts on LinkedIn… and that’s where you essentially have this micro-influencer syndrome,” Johnson added.

Building https://t.co/6QzWU8Eaa9 – the first AI social network

Find your next dev, co-founder, investor and more pic.twitter.com/Lc20sFsCoe
— Nathaneo Johnson (@Nathaneo_j) March 22, 2025

The app seeks to avoid the superficial nature of typical social platforms. Hargrow emphasized that while aesthetics often dominate Instagram and content virality drives TikTok, Series is about purposeful, intentional networking.

“We’re not trying to replace real-world relationships—we’re trying to make it easier for people to find the right relationships in the first place,” Hargrow said.

Parable Ventures led the pre-seed funding round, which included participation from Pear VC, DGB, VC, 47th Street, Radicle Impact, Uncommon Projects, and several high-profile angel investors, including Reddit CEO Steve Huffman and GPTZero Founder Edward Tian. Johnson referred to one investor meeting as a “million-dollar dinner,” reflecting how their pitch resonated with early backers.

Though not business majors, Johnson and Hargrow leaned into entrepreneurship through their podcast, in which they interview founders and C-suite leaders about the lesser-known elements of building a company—like accounting, business law, and team formation.

Since Series launched in test phases, more than 32,000 messages have been exchanged between AI “friends.” The app’s initial focus is the college entrepreneur market. Still, the founders hope to expand into finance, dating, education, and health—eventually aiming to build the world’s most accessible warm network.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 11, 2025

ESSENCE Festival of Culture Reveals First Wave Of Artists Appearing In This Year’s Lineup

The festival is taking place Friday, July 4 to Sunday, July 6 and the theme for this year's program is "Made Like This."

Essence has announced a portion of the upcoming lineup for this summer’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture, which will take place from July 4 to July 6. This year’s theme is “Made Like This.”

Along with the annual culmination of Black culture in New Orleans, the magazine’s 55th anniversary will be celebrated. The publication released the “first wave of the lineup” of artists appearing at the festival on its social media account.

“The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® is back in New Orleans July 4 to 6th (but you already knew that.) Back to the matter at hand: The first wave of the lineup is here.

“Boyz II Men. Davido. Maxwell. Master P. GloRilla. The Isley Brothers. Nas. Summer Walker. Jermaine Dupri presents an “ESSENCE Flowers” tribute to Quincy Jones. And that’s just the beginning. You know we love a surprise.”

“This year, we’re celebrating 55 years of ESSENCE Magazine. From the page to the stage, ESSENCE Fest is the place that brings our mission and stories to life.”

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A post shared by ESSENCE Festival (@essencefest)

The event will be held at the Caesars Superdome and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Law & Order actor Anthony Anderson and cultural tastemaker Kenny Burns will host the Superdome stage this year. Along with the artists listed above, you can expect to see Buju Banton, Donell Jones, and Muni Long, among others. Announcements will be made in the future regarding other acts and activities for this year’s gathering.

Outside of the performances and expected celebrity sightings, attendees can expect to engage in “community, conversation, and curated discovery.” Branded functions include: ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™, BEAUTYCON™ @ ESSENCEFEST Edition, AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™, the ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™, ESSENCE Authors™, SOKO MRKT™, GBEF® HQ, and the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback.

Tickets can be purchased on the Ticketmaster website. For information about the Essence Festival of Culture can be accessed here.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 11, 2025

New York Artist Sues Quavo For Unauthorized Use Of Ferrari Sculpture In Promo Video

Daniel Arsham filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, accusing the Atlanta rapper of copyright infringement.

Former Migos member Quavo has been taken to court by an artist who accuses him of unauthorized use of a Ferrari sculpture the rapper displayed in a video he posted on social media.

According to ARTNews, artist Daniel Arsham filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, accusing the Atlanta rapper of copyright infringement and violating the right of publicity. The action includes his record label, Quality Control Music, and HYBE America.

The dispute is over a sculpture Arsham created, Quartz Eroded 1961 Ferrari GT, which was done in 2018, being used without permission in a promo video, “Back to the Basics 2025.” The video was also posted on social media.

The legal paperwork was filed on March 31. In the suit, he claimed that the video, which is appropriately registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, unlawfully incorporates his sculpture.

In the lawsuit, the artist states that the “infringing video features Quavo performing in front of the artwork” and is displayed “prominently” in the 45-second video. Arsham says the defendants never got permission to use his artwork. Although cease-and-desist letters were sent to Quality Control and HYBE America in December 2024 and January 2025, the content featuring the sculptures was never removed or taken offline.

“By failing to obtain Mr. Arsham’s authorization to use the Artwork or to compensate Mr. Arsham for the use,” the lawsuit states, the defendants “have avoided payment of license fees and other financial costs associated with obtaining permission to exploit the artwork, as well as the restrictions that Mr. Arsham is entitled to and would place on any such exploitation as conditions for Mr. Arsham’s permission, including the right to deny permission.”

He is seeking a permanent injunction so that Huncho Jack, the Jack Huncho artist, and the recording label cannot infringe on his copyright. He is also seeking monetary compensation for damages and disgorgement of profits.

Khalid Kamal, mayor, Kobi, racist, messages, investigation, south Fulton

by Kandiss Edwards

April 11, 2025

South Fulton Solidifies Travel Policy After Mayor’s Trip To Africa

South Fulton wants accountability in government travel.

Fox 5 Atlanta reported that the South Fulton City Council has adopted a formal international travel policy after Mayor Khalid Kamau was criticized for taking an unapproved trip to Ghana.

On April 8, city officials passed a resolution outlining strict procedures for any international travel by city employees or elected officials. The new policy requires a written justification for international travel, including a detailed agenda and budget, and an explanation of how the travel aligns with the city’s goals. All travel must be approved in advance. Upon return, employees must present a post-trip report summarizing outcomes and potential benefits to South Fulton.

The policy follows controversy surrounding Kamau’s December 2024 trip to Ghana, which was not approved by the city council and sparked widespread criticism. As reported by BLACK ENTERPRISE, the mayor posted images and videos on Instagram chronicling a lavish excursion that included stays at upscale hotels and appearances at diplomatic functions and cultural ceremonies. The city had not budgeted for the travel, and Kamau did not submit the required documentation or seek the necessary approvals before using a government-issued credit card.

The trip cost South Fulton taxpayers more than $26,000 in total. The mayor’s expenses included first-class airfare, luxury accommodations, and a $4,000 security detail. The trip, which lasted nearly three weeks, featured appearances at diplomatic events and cultural tours, including a visit to Cape Coast Castle.

Residents and council members raised concerns about financial oversight and transparency. In response, some council members pushed to limit Kamau’s discretionary powers and called for a formal investigation into the misuse of public funds.

Kamau later defended the trip, saying it was part of a broader effort to build ties with African leaders and position South Fulton as a globally connected city open to international partnerships and cultural exchange.

City officials said the newly adopted policy will restore accountability and prevent future missteps involving city-funded travel.

by Sharelle B. McNair

April 11, 2025

Tourist Helicopter In NYC Crashes Into Hudson River, Killing All 6 Passengers

Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop said there were concerns about the air traffic over the Hudson prior to the crash.

A family of five visiting New York City from Barcelona, Spain, was killed along with a pilot after a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River, ABC News reports.

The New York Helicopters Tours chartered chopper was carrying three adults and three children when video captured the aircraft breaking into pieces before hitting the water near Lower Manhattan on Thursday, April 10. The victims were identified as Agustin Escobar, an executive from European automation company Siemens; his wife, Merce Camprubi Montal; and their children, aged 4, 5, and 11.

The unidentified pilot was 36. Video from the crash showed the chopper plunging into the water with a tail rotor and main rotor blade missing. Officials said the aircraft hit the water invertedly.

https://twitter.com/MikeyKayFilms/status/1910438763164991838

The tragic occurrence happened at 3:17 p.m. off the coast of River Drive in Hoboken, New Jersey, roughly 15 minutes after it departed from the Wall St. Heliport. Before crashing, the helicopter reached the George Washington Bridge before turning south. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop said that Jersey City Medical Center medical professionals tried as hard as they could to save some of the victims who were rushed to the hospital but were unsuccessful.

Witnesses of the crash described the tragic scene as sounding “like a sonic boom.” “I was walking by, and the helicopter went down at a 45-degree angle,” witness Eric Campoverde said. “Big splash — it was very scary.”

New York Helicopter Tours CEO Michael Roth told the New York Post he was “devastated” by the news. “I’m a father and a grandfather, and to have children on there, I’m devastated. I’m absolutely devastated,” he said. When asked what he thinks may have happened, Roth said that he has never seen anything like that after being in business for three decades. “And I haven’t seen anything like that in my 30 years being in business, in the helicopter business. The only thing I could guess — I got no clue — is that it either had a bird strike or the main rotor blades failed. I have no clue. I don’t know,” he continued.

“This is horrific. But you gotta remember something, these are machines and they break.”

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) listed the chopper as a Bell 206 helicopter. It was on its sixth flight of the day. Since the aircraft crashed on the Jersey City side of the river, the Jersey City Police Department is taking the lead on the investigation, finding the aircraft upside-down in the 50-degree water. Fulop said there had been concerns about the air traffic over the Hudson before the crash and hopes the tragedy brings more attention to growing safety concerns.

Elected officials also spoke out about the crash. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said, “Our hearts go out to the family and those on board” during a briefing. In a post on X, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the news “devastating.” “Five Spaniards from the same family, three of them children, and the pilot have lost their lives. An unimaginable tragedy,” he wrote.

President Donald Trump called the crash “terrible” on his Truth Social app. “Terrible crash,” Trump said. “The video of the accident is horrific. God bless the families and friends of the victims.”

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 11, 2025

Kandi Burruss Sets Broadway Box Office Records With ‘Othello:’ ‘We’re Making Our Shows The Destination’

Kandi Burruss is reaping huge success as co-producer of the Denzel Washington-led Broadway production of "Othello."

Kandi Burruss is busy turning her dreams into reality and proudly representing the culture as a co-producer of the highest-grossing play in Broadway history.

The versatile singer/songwriter holds a co-producer credit for Broadway’s Othello, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. As a co-producer alongside her husband, Todd Tucker, working under lead producer Brian Anthony Moreland and director Kenny Leon, Burruss was intentional in ensuring the play aligned with her larger vision.

“In the opportunities that I get, I’m always trying to elevate and make way for more [opportunities] for people like myself. For Black people, people of color and women,” she told Waymaker Journal.

“We had people coming to New York to see a show [who’d never been to Broadway before] … We’re not just waiting for the people who already go to shows. We’re making our shows the destination.”

Since its debut last month, Othello has set the record as the highest-grossing play in Broadway history, grossing $2.8 million in its opening week. With a rare Broadway performance by Denzel Washington, Othello has garnered immense support from the theater world. Ticket prices are soaring, reaching up to $921, as the show received the highest earnings ever for a play in its first seven days on Broadway.

“This isn’t another Shakespearean production,” Burress said. “It’s starring Denzel Washington. It’s set in 2028. The clothes are modern. The delivery feels real and passionate. You can see yourself in it — even though they’re still using Shakespeare’s words.”

Othello stars Washington in the title role, with Gyllenhaal playing the manipulative Iago and Molly Osborne as Othello’s wife, Desdemona. The show isn’t Burruss’ first Broadway venture. Along with her husband, she co-produced their first play, Thoughts of a Colored Man, in 2021.

They followed that with a revival of The Piano Lesson (starring Denzel Washington’s son, John David Washington) and the 2024 return of The Wiz to Broadway. Through their collaboration with John David Washington, Burruss was able to connect with Denzel, ultimately leading to their partnership with Othello.

“We would see Denzel around that time, and that’s when Brian and Denzel initiated the conversation,” Burruss told People.

With four plays under her belt, including one that broke Broadway box office records, Burruss—who already boasts a Grammy—is now setting her sights on her first-ever Tony Award.

“I’m praying. But you know, I pray every time,” she said. “Every time you have to go into it feeling like, ‘This is the one,’ you know? I’m going to speak it into existence.”

Jamaica, travel, violent crimes, Jamaican restaurant

by Jameelah Mullen

April 11, 2025

Beloved Jamaican Restaurant in Bakersfield, CA, Calls On Community For Help

Team work makes the dream work.

Barrington’s Jamaican Kitchen, a popular Jamaican restaurant in Bakersfield, California, was forced to close its doors due to financial difficulties. The owner is asking for assistance from the community to reopen this cherished local eatery.

Barrington Lewis opened the Jamaican restaurant in 2017. Known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant quickly gained popularity among locals. Lewis mentioned that he began facing financial challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought capacity constraints and rising inflation. The Jamaica-born native noted that his restaurant did not receive the financial assistance related to COVID that other businesses received during that time.

“I fell short of getting the financial support that the nation was getting, and I didn’t get it because they exhausted the money that they had allotted for small businesses like mine. I was kind of counting on that,” Lewis told the Jamaica Observer.

Despite a significant rise in supply and operating costs, with some expenses even doubling, Lewis said his priority was to provide affordable food for his customers. Therefore, he was reluctant to raise his prices. The financial strain led him to fall behind on his rent. Although he attempted to establish a repayment plan, his landlord terminated his lease, forcing him to relocate.

He acquired a new building about five minutes from his old location. Lewis planned to reopen there on April 1 but could not due to financial constraints. The business owner says he is facing difficulties obtaining the financial resources required to purchase restaurant equipment, supplies, and a rental deposit. He has launched a GoFundMe to help raise $20,000 to help cover the costs.

The business owner, who provided free food to unhoused people, hopes to reconnect with his customers with whom he has built solid relationships over the years. Lewis has yet to announce a date for the restaurant’s reopening.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 11, 2025

Fetty Wap’s Sister Advocates For His Early Release During Second Chance Month, ‘Justice Should Also Mean Mercy’

Fetty Wap's sister is advocating for his early release from prison in honor of Second Chance Month.

Fetty Wap’s sister is recognizing April as Second Chance Month by advocating for her rapper brother’s early prison release.

Divinity Maxwell-Butts, sister of “Trap Queen” rapper Fetty Wap, took to Instagram on April 5 to spotlight April as Second Chance Month and call for her brother’s return home to his family. Her message comes as Fetty Wap, real name Willie Maxwell II, continues to serve a six-year prison sentence for drug-related charges—a fact she acknowledged by sharing a screenshot of an article debunking rumors of his early release.

“April is Second Chance Month—a time to recognize that people deserve redemption, not just punishment,” Maxwell-Butts wrote in her caption. “My brother has taken responsibility and served over half his sentence for a nonviolent offense.”

“He is scheduled to be released in 2027, but justice should also mean mercy,” she added. “His sentence should be commuted so he can come home to his family, his children, and his purpose. It’s time.”

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A post shared by Zavier Jordan Maxwell (@fettywap1738)

Fetty Wap was sentenced to six years in prison in May 2023 after being one of several defendants found guilty of participating in a drug trafficking ring that distributed over 100 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine across Long Island and New Jersey. He was initially arrested in October 2021 at the Rolling Loud music festival in New York City.

The “679” rapper was initially released on bond but has been in custody since August 2022, when his bail was revoked. He later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a charge with a minimum sentence of five years.

While Fetty Wap remains incarcerated, his fans have shown their support for his sister’s call to have his sentence commuted.

“What ever happened to good behavior time served?” one person asked.

“Can’t wait to hear that trap queen beat drop at ah concert somewhere idccccc lol,” added someone else.

by Stacy Jackson

April 11, 2025

Judge Rejects DMX Ex-Wife’s Claims Of Owning Half Of Music Catalog

Simmons claimed she was granted 50 percent of intellectual property rights, including, but not limited to, royalties.

A New York judge has ruled that DMX’s ex-wife, Tashera Simmons, cannot claim a 50% stake in the late rapper’s music catalog and other copyrights and likeness rights.

The couple divorced in 2013, years before DMX died from a heart attack. Following the hip-hop legend’s death in 2021, Simmons filed a lawsuit against his estate last year, claiming co-ownership of his music and intellectual property rights. “The estate is the sole owner of all intellectual property rights [that] Earl Simmons acquired during his marriage to the plaintiff, as well as any and all other trademarks and intellectual property rights that belonged to Earl Simmons at the time of his death,” said Judge David F. Everett, according to Billboard.

Judge Everett’s April 7 ruling settles the “intellectual property” dispute in the couple’s 2016 divorce agreement, which reportedly only granted royalty payments for Simmons.

In Simmons’ lawsuit, she claimed that the estate administrators’ dispute over her ownership stake was unwarranted. According to an excerpt from the divorce settlement, Simmons was allegedly granted 50% of intellectual property rights “which shall include, but not be limited to, royalties.” However, Judge Everett said the statement “does not unequivocally assign ownership of decedent’s copyrighted works or trademark” and fails to mention “ownership or title to such property.”

Samuel J. Ferrara, a lawyer representing Simmons, said the judge’s ruling “ignores long-standing legal principles and voids significant benefits to which Ms. Simmons and her children were and should be entitled.” His statement made clear that Simmons and her four children, who she shares with the late rapper, are beyond disappointed with the court’s decision. “It seems that the judge’s ruling does not consider the parties’ intent as evidenced by their conduct,” said Ferrara. From the perspective of DMX’s estate, an attorney said the ruling ensures the preservation of the rapper’s legacy.

In Monday’s ruling, Judge Everett did not disregard Simmons’ accusations that DMX had not paid $214,000 in child support as per the divorce agreement.

DMX’s music catalog includes top charters like “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Party Up (Up In Here),” and “What These B*tches Want.” Ashley Austin, CEO of Artist Legacy Group, a partner of DMX’s estate, promised to work alongside DMX’s daughter, Sasha Simmons, and his ex-fiancée, Desiree Lindstrom, to protect his rights.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 11, 2025

BET Announces Lineup, Events For BET Experience 2025

BET Experience will take place in Los Angeles June 5-8, right before BET Awards 2025

The BET Media Group has announced the return of the BET Experience, taking place in Los Angeles June 5-8, 2025.

The BET Experience is a multi–day celebration featuring the best in music culture, and community. This year’s lineup features a variety of music artists throughout the week leading up to the BET Awards happening June 9.

The festivities start June 5, highlighted by Buju Banton headlining a performance at the Hollywood Palladium. Before the reggae icon hits the stage, the BET Experience will collaborate with WayMaker Men’s Summit on June 5 and 6 at The Beehive by SoLa Impact.

There will be two days of networking, engaging in empowering conversation, and community-building primarily focused on men of color. (You can register for this powerful event here.) Expected guest speakers include Nick Cannon, Ben Crump, and Michael Jai White.

A free event, BETX 2025 FanFest, will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8.

On June 8, The Hollywood Bowl will feature the return of The Roots Picnic for A Roots Picnic Experience: Class of ‘95 which will feature the legendary Philadelphia group along with Lil’ Kim, Redman & Method Man, Bone Thugs–N–Harmony, Raekwon, Goodie Mob, E–40, DJ Quik, and Havoc (Mobb Deep).

There is also a BET R&B Night at the YouTube Theater on June 8 featuring performances by Jagged Edge, Donell Jones, and Eric Bellinger along with a special R&B ONLY set featuring Tiára Monique and JABARI.

More details about performers and shows during the BET Experience will be announced at a later date.

For information about any of the events taking place during BET Experience, you can visit online. Updated info can also be viewed on social media on Twitter @bet, or by using #BETX.