Rolling Out Publisher Munson Steed Co-Wrote Latest Song ‘Look At God’ By Koryn Hawthorne
Munson Steed, publisher and owner of Rolling Out Magazine, has co-written a gospel song recently released by recording artist Koryn Hawthorne.
“Look at God” was released on September 15. The stirring song features the Season 8 The Voice finalist blessing the track with her multi-octave range.
Steed revealed how the song came to fruition and expressed his desire to create more music.
“This song was on my heart for years, and I was blessed to connect with a singer like Koryn Hawthorne to breathe life and love into it,” said Steed. “I hope it provides encouragement to all who listen to it, and I look forward to creating more inspirational music.”
Hawthorne gushed about the song and expressed how thankful she is for having many moments where she can say, “Look at God.”
“‘Look at God’ couldn’t be a more perfect song for me. I have so many look at God moments in my life. I’m so thankful. Also, working with Charles in the studio was a great experience, and collaborating with Munson was a blessing. I’m so excited the song and the video are out for the world to hear and see. Everybody, go download it and watch the video. Look at God!”
Charles Jenkins, who co-wrote the song with Steed, brought Hawthorne onto the project after hearing what Steed wanted to do.
“When Munson first [pitched] me the idea, we were sitting outside of a restaurant in Chicago. I had tears in my eyes, and I knew it was a diamond,” said Jenkins. “I’m just honored he allowed me to collaborate on this smash and executive produce this special moment. Now my superstar friend Koryn Hawthorne is sharing it with the world with raving reviews.”
Tried It! Angelica Ross Claims Ryan Murphy Ghosted Her On A Show Idea and Accuses Co-Worker Of Transphobic Behavior
Actress Angelica Ross called out her former boss and fellow castmate from FX’s American Horror Story for two distinct reasons on social media.
Ross took to Twitter accusing American Horror Story and Pose creator Ryan Murphy of ghosting her via email back in 2020, USA Today reported. The 42-year-old actress, who starred in both Emmy-award-winning series, claimed she emailed Murphy in hopes of starring in an upcoming AHS season focusing on Black women, which was Ross’ idea, but he left her on read.
She posted screenshots of their exchange, which started with Murphy reaching out to her for casting ideas for the potential project.
“Remember your idea about a Horror season starring Black women? Well, I’m doing it,” Murphy wrote. “Not sure of the story yet, but we will start a writers’ room in the fall. Along with you, who are the four women I should get? I think you, Keke Palmer, Gabby … not sure of the fourth?”
Excitedly, Ross responded with “YAAAAAASSSSS!” and recommended three veteran actresses to add.
“Debbi Morgan (‘Eve’s Bayou’) the culture would LIVE, and she’s a powerhouse actress,” Ross said. “Also, someone like Lynn Whitfield or Alfre Woodard would TURN IT!”
She also called on fellow transgender actress Amiyah Scott to join the cast.
“So, as Nella considered why she distrusted Needles and Pins so much, she also considered what Jesse had said about white people who went out of their way to present “diversity” (1/2) @zakiya_harris#TheOtherBlackGirlpic.twitter.com/2wbJWh4KCb
Murphy reportedly ghosted her after that conversation. Ross made a TiikTok video saying she even reached out to her former boss again in 2022 to see if he was still on board with having her join the writing and producing process but still hadn’t heard back. Ross claimed she had to turn down an opportunity to star in a Marvel film because of her contractual obligations with Murphy and American Horror Story.
“After not hearing back. After sending flowers and no response, I sent one last email in Feb 2022 (it took about a year to film season 10 due to COVID) while still contractually in first position with the show,” the actress wrote on Twitter.
After not hearing back. After sending flowers and no response I sent one last email in Feb 2022 (it took about a year to film season 10 due to COVID) while still contractually in first position with the show. Mind you, marvel had called twice now. I haven’t heard from him… pic.twitter.com/s7HfeABd8j
“Mind you, Marvel had called twice now. I haven’t heard from him since.”
Ross also called out former co-star Emma Roberts’ alleged transphobic behavior. She accused her co-star of misgendering her on the set of AHS: 1984 in 2018 after another co-worker told the ladies to “play nice,” according to TMZ.
The Pose star claimed Roberts rebutted, “Don’t you mean ‘lady?'”
The actress said she never spoke to Roberts again when cameras weren’t rolling and didn’t speak up out of fear of retaliation.
Sherri Shepherd Tests Positive For Covid As Talk Show’s New Season Airs
Sherri Shepherd is having a tumultuous start to her talk show’s season premiere. The host tested positive for COVID-19 two days into production, forcing reruns to air as she recovers.
The Sherri show officially announced the matter on Sept. 20, unveiling how the actress and comedian is “heartbroken” that she must halt production for the week.
“Unfortunately, Sherri has tested positive for Covid,” shared the show’s Instagram account. “The show will return with new episodes as soon as possible. For the remainder of this week, encore episodes from the beginning of the premiere week will air. The health of our host and entire staff is of the utmost importance.”
The post also included a direct statement from Shepherd:
“I am absolutely heartbroken that I cannot return to host my show this week. As soon as I get the all-clear from my doctor, I look forward to coming back strong to deliver the fun, laughter and a real good time.”
Shepherd was returning to her hosting duties amidst a growing controversy of talk shows restarting production despite the writer’s strike. According to Variety, the 56-year-old addressed how her show is still airing as the strike continues during its season premiere, stating that her team was not part of the union.
“This summer, you all may have seen your favorite actors and Hollywood stars have been on the picket lines with the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes,” shared the entertainer as she displayed photos of her protesting with fellow actresses Viola Davis and Niecy Nash. “There has been so much confusion about who can work and who can’t work. Well, I’m a SAG-AFTRA actress, and I actually marched with some of my colleagues while in Los Angeles recently.”
The mother of one continued, stating that her show is under a different union contract and, thus, not scabbing.
“But here’s the thing, talk shows, in general, fall under a different union contract code, so we’re allowed to come back unless you’re a WGA show. The Sherri show is not a WGA show, and we have never employed WGA writers, so us coming back to work isn’t crossing the picket line.”
Shepherd, however, is in the minority in regards to talk shows ramping up production, as other hosts, including Jennifer Hudson and Drew Barrymore, have reversed their decisions to run new episodes. The Sherri show anticipates a return next week.
Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator Alan Williams Resigns For ‘Personal Reasons’
The Chicago Bears have announced its defensive coordinator Alan Williams resigned Wednesday, taking a step back from football.
ESPN reports Williams, 53, who was hired in February 2022, has been away from the team since last week for what the team classified as personal reasons. The details surrounding Williams’ leave have been vague, and many are still speculating what exactly led to his resignation.
“I am taking a step back to take care of my health and family. I appreciate the opportunity to work with the Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise with a rich history,” Williams said in a statement.
“I value the NFL shield and all that it stands for, and after taking some time to address my health, I plan to come back and coach again,” he added.
Bears coach Matt Eberflus took over defensive play-calling duties for the team last Sunday during its 27-17 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Eberflus said Wednesday he will also call the defensive plays Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs.
When asked if the lack of a true defensive coordinator could be an issue for the Bears, who are currently 0-2, Eberflus said he did not think it would be one due to his previous coaching experience with the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and Dallas Cowboys, where he coached on the defensive side of the ball.
“We have [safeties coach] Andre Curtis, [cornerbacks coach/passing game coordinator] Jon Hoke, all those guys that have great experience,” Eberflus said, according to ESPN. “Guys that have been in our system. [Linebackers coach Dave] Borgonzi, [assistant defensive backs coach David] Overstreet, all those guys are working diligently, so we’re prepared and ready to go.”
The Bears have struggled since their last playoff appearance in 2018, when they went 12-4 and won the NFC North division. The team hasn’t had a winning season since, finishing twice with an 8–8 record. The Bears’ current quarterback, Justin Fields, who was drafted by the team in 2021, is just the second Black quarterback in team history and the first since the team drafted Vince Evans in 1977.
After being ruled “out indefinitely” by the school’s head football coach, Brian Kelly, due to a “medical emergency,” Brooks’ family released a statement updating fans on his condition.
“Greg Jr. was diagnosed last week with a large brain tumor that required emergency surgery. Doctors successfully performed the procedure Friday to remove the mass, and we are awaiting biopsy results,” the statement read.
“We are grateful for the work and care of the medical staff helping Greg through these challenges and for the concern and love poured out by so many in the Louisiana, Arkansas, and national sports communities. This means the world to us at this difficult time.”
The family of @LSUfootball Greg Brooks Jr. shares he had a large brain tumor that required emergency surgery.
LSU ordered an MRI for the Louisiana native following complaints he made of dizziness and vertigo during the early parts of the season.
“Finally, we said that enough’s enough and we got an MRI and that’s when the tumor was located. The vertigo was just a symptom of what was obviously a larger issue,” Coach Kelly said.
Brooks, who transferred to the Tigers after three seasons with the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, was elected as one of LSU football’s captains this year by his teammates. Kelly attributes the love for Brooks to his incredible courage. Stating that the player made it “pretty clear” that he intends to return to the Tigers once he’s cleared for play, the storied coach added “but that’s just Greg Brooks.”
Howard University Women’s Golf Team Begins Season With A Victory
Howard University’s women’s golf team showed up and showed out at this year’s Hornet Classic, resulting in a win at a 3-round tournament, and with three players finishing in the top 5.
The three-day tournament hosted by Delaware State University was held at Kings Creek Country Club in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. According to Howard University, the Bisons shot 21-over par (873) during the September 17-19 tournament. The Bison victory resulted in a record low for the Howard University Team, who shot five-under-par (283) in round 2. Leading the top 5 finishers of the tournament was Emily Mayne, a freshman from Kingston Jamaica, who shot five-over par (218) at the game. Kendall Jackson, a junior from Pearland, Texas; and sophomore Morgan Horrell finished 4th (219, +6) and 5th (220, +7), respectively.
In a March interview with WUSA 9, back when Jackson was a freshman at the university, she reflected on why she joined the Bisons. “There weren’t a lot of females playing growing up, let alone black females,” she said. That’s one of the main reasons I came to Howard: to play with other black women. I truly want to inspire not just black people into golf, but because black women make up less than 1% in the golf industry as a whole, so I just invite more people to do it, and that would be amazing for sure.”
According to Howard University, the reigning Northeast Conference Rookie of the Year and Los Angeles native, Marley Franklin, tied for 11th place, shooting 11-over par (224). In the second round, Franklin shot a 68 (-4), setting a new personal best. Third-year team member and Suwanee Georgia native Jada Richards finished in 16th place (229, +16).
The team’s win comes shortly after the release of the documentary Why Not Us, which features the university’s golf team. ESPN reported that the documentary, produced by Andscape and Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media, highlights the challenges and successes of coaches and student-athletes at the university. Why Not Us debuted on ESPN and ESPN+ on August 21 and is available to stream on Hulu.
Arkansas Black-Owned Trucking Academy Partners With HBCU To Recruit Students For Employment
The WorldLink Truck Driving Academy is the only Black woman-owned trucking institution in Arkansas. And now, owner Gladys Godley and her husband, Gary, are teaming up with a local HBCU in order to diversify the industry and provide employment opportunities to Black students.
“I saw after their first year, a lot of them didn’t actually graduate, so we’re picking up that slack for those who thought they wanted to go to a four-year college or wanted to make that commitment,” said Gladys, a former high school teacher.
The most impressive aspect of the program is its affordability. “It’s about $5,000, which includes the actual tuition, the cost for the permit, the books — everything is included within that $5,000,” said Debra Baker, director at Arkansas Baptist College Adult Education.
An accessible road to a lucrative career is one of many selling points of the Godleys’ mission, one that has proved to have stellar results, as the WorldLink Truck Driving Academy boasts a 90 percent graduation rate. The Godleys hope to build on their success in their collaboration with Arkansas Baptist College.
“Now you can get your CDL [commercial driver’s license] and you can start making anywhere from $45- to $80,000 your first year,” Gary Godley said. The Arkansas Trucking Association reports more than 44,000 truck drivers are employed in the Bear State, with approximately 26 percent being non-white.
According to Education Data, first-time undergraduate college freshmen have a 25 percent dropout rate countrywide, with Arkansas’ dropout numbers being 124 percent higher than the number of undergraduate students in that state. Secondary education institutions across the country have started implementing career days for high school students choosing to bypass traditional higher education paths for trade schools and other alternatives to reduce the stigma associated with them.
Cynthia Bailey Launches ‘Refresh & Revive Your Soul’ Wellness Retreat For Women
Cynthia Bailey is bouncing back with a new experience aimed at helping women “Refresh and Revive” their souls.
The veteran model and reality star was in Los Angeles last month for the launch of “REFRESH & REVIVE YOUR SOUL: A Cynthia Bailey Experience.” The event is a wellness retreat for women where they are encouraged to drop the bags of life off at the door and enter a safe space of sisterhood and relaxation.
For Bailey, the retreat “was born because I feel like as a woman, mother and entrepreneur, I find it difficult to make ‘me time’ for myself,” she told BLACK ENTERPRISE.
Guests at a private location in West Hollywood were welcomed with plush robes and slippers upon entry and enjoyed a fully catered menu and cocktails throughout the day. Bailey took the time to sit with her guests, who engaged in raw, unfiltered conversations that set guards down and connected energies.
(Courtesy of Cynthia Bailey Experience)
“You are gently guided to leave all your worries, anxieties, and preconceived notions at the door,” Bailey said of the experience.
“This retreat is a sanctuary, a space of genuine self-care and transformation.”
Many have been wondering what’s next for Bailey after her second divorce and exit from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” She made a guest appearance in season 15 of “RHOA,” where she lightly addressed her divorce from Mike Hill after two years of marriage.
Bailey, 56, also competed on “Celebrity Big Brother 3” and appeared alongside Kenya Moore for “Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip” in 2022. Known for being the exact opposite of a mean girl on cutthroat reality shows, Bailey has paved the perfect lane to pour into others the way she’s done so naturally onscreen for years.
“I’ve always struggled to create a healthy balance between my personal and my professional life,” she explained. “I have an incredible network of women that I work with and I want a deeper and more meaningful connection to them outside of business.”
“I wanted to create a safe space where we can come together to nurture, uplift, and love on each other spiritually, mentally emotionally and physically.”
Working in partnership with publicist and Glam Body founder Danika Berry, Bailey sought to create an event where “boss women” can come together and “enjoy true fellowship and connection.” Sponsors included Soul Purge, Seagram’s Escapes, US Fibroids Centers, CurlDaze Hair Care, Brown Sugar Babe, The Health Lounge, Rose Bud Investments, and Moms Mental Health Matters.
After hosting her inaugural group, which included model-actress and fellow “Real Housewives” star GarcelleBeauvais, comedian Luenell, and Loni Love, Bailey is ready to take the well-received event on the road, the next stops being Lake Bailey in Atlanta and a special-edition retreat in the Caribbean.
“The Atlanta edition will cater to our home crowd and aims to involve local communities of women, enabling more convenient access for those who may not be able to travel far,” she said.
“We also have plans for other markets such as Houston, Birmingham, Mississippi, and North Carolina as well.”
The goal is to create a new movement for powerhouse women to enjoy more safe spaces for love, support, and upliftment.
REFRESH & REVIVE YOUR SOUL: A Cynthia Bailey Experience is “more than just a retreat — it’s a movement towards authenticity, self-love, and collective empowerment,” she said.
“It stands as a testament to the fact that every woman deserves a space where she can be free from judgment, where she can truly refresh and revive her soul.”
‘Hair Love’ Phenomenon Levels Up Into ‘Young Love’ Animated TV Series
The “Hair Love” universe is expanding.
Matthew A. Cherry, creator of the beloved animated short that celebrates Black hair, has created a new animated television series, “Young Love,” that picks up where the family-friendly short ended.
The series trailer was released on Sept.13, 2023, revealing the characters’ debut on the small screen. Its first season will consist of 12 episodes, with the first four debuting Sept. 21, 2023.
“Hair Love” received much acclaim upon its release in 2019; its depiction of a Black father doing his daughter’s hair before visiting her mother in the hospital won the hearts of viewers. It went on to earn an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.
“Young Love,” premiering on streaming platform Max, presents the same family from the Oscar-winning short as they go about their everyday lives in Chicago, Cherry’s hometown. Issa Rae and Kid Cudi lend their voices as the parents of Zuri, the protagonist, NBC News reported.
This new story takes place two months after the short film leaves off, with “Insecure” star and creator Rae playing Angela Young, a natural hair stylist and vlogger. Cudi plays music producer Stephen Love, Zuri’s father and Young’s partner. The starring role of Zuri is voiced by Brooke Monroe Conaway, a young actress from Baltimore.
Cherry spoke to news outlets about the purpose of his new project and how it highlights modern-day Black families.
“The thing I think is really unique about our show is that it’s centered around Black millennial parents,” he said. “Typically, in animated shows, the parents are more boomer, more established in their careers, and the idea of exploring millennial parents was cool because they haven’t really achieved their dreams yet. They’re still working toward their goals, but they want to be present in their kid’s life.”
Additional cast members include Loretta Devine and Harry Lennix as the parents of Angela Young, bringing an intergenerational conversation to viewers.
NBA’s Koby Altman Struggled To Pass Sobriety Tests Before DUI Arrest
Cleveland Cavaliers President and General Manager Koby Altman struggled with his balance while taking field sobriety tests during a police stop last week.
TMZ reported Altman, who joined the Cavs in 2012, had trouble making it through field sobriety tests before he was arrested, as seen in a police video obtained by TMZ Sports. The Cavs GM was pulled over in Cleveland on Friday night by Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) troopers who said they witnessed his white Lexus make a traffic violation.
“Troopers initiated a traffic stop and during their interaction with the driver indicators of impairment were observed,” the OSHP said, according to ESPN. “The driver was subsequently placed under arrest for OVI and soon after offered a breath test, which he refused.”
At the stop, troopers told Altman he was close to causing an accident and showed signs of being impaired. Video of the traffic stop showed Altman, 41, attempting to walk and turn, standing on one leg, and taking an eye test. In the video, Altman told the troopers they were messing up his performance.
Altman later explained to the troopers that he was a Cavs executive and was tired after returning from an overseas trip and a lengthy dinner where he had a few drinks. The Cavs’ GM also refused a field sobriety test during the traffic stop leading to his arrest.
Altman was charged with committing a marked lane violation and operating a vehicle while impaired. His attorney submitted a not-guilty plea on his behalf in court on Tuesday. Altman was director of pro personnel with the Cavs, including when they won the NBA Championship in 2016, before taking over as the team’s GM one year later. He was promoted to president of basketball operations in 2022.
The Cavaliers released an updated statement Tuesday.
“We hold our team members to a high standard of conduct and expect leaders at every level of our organization to represent the Cavaliers with integrity, professionalism and accountability,” the statement read. “We will continue to closely monitor the facts and circumstances of this matter and await resolution of the legal process.”
Altman was instrumental in the Cavs drafting stars Evan Mobley and Darius Garland. Last season, the Cavs finished with a 51-31 record, which was good enough for the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. However, they lost to the New York Knicks in the first round.
