Whether you were born in the 1990s or simply a fan of that era, the sitcom “Martin” was more than just a show. It was a part of your reality, a nostalgic journey that still resonates today. This unique blend of humor and relatability left an indelible mark on ’90s pop culture that people can still feel and cherish. For the years 1992-1997, the 30-minute comedy series “Martin” aired over 130 episodes, bringing viewers countless laughs and unforgettable moments. The show’s magic was not just about the individual performances but about the camaraderie and chemistry of the cast. Martin Lawrence played the character Martin Payne with Tisha Campbell (Gina Waters-Payne), Thomas Mikal Ford (Tommy Strawn), Tichina Arnold (Pamela James), and Carl Anthony Payne II (Cole Brown) playing their iconic roles — each one of them was instrumental in the show’s success, creating a bond that was as solid off-screen as it was on-screen. Week after week, the cast of “Martin” delivered unforgettable...
Mar 14, 2024
Rap enthusiasts have argued that the opening verse to UGK’s “International Players Anthem” by Andre 3000 is one of his most iconic lyrical performances. Everything about it, from powerful world play to the melodic flow, creates the perfect formula for a rap verse. Although this is one example, Andre 3000 is held in regard for his lyrical prowess. Whether it is eclectic combinations with Outkast group mate Antwan “Big Boi” Patton or a smooth feature, fans get excited when Andre 3000’s name is mentioned because they know something great is about to come. Born Andre Lauren Benjamin, the Atlanta, GA, native became famous as a member of Outkast — the iconic rap duo. Andre 3000 and Big Boi would make waves in rap, highlighting the talent, depth, and presence of rappers from the South. During the 1995 Source Awards, Outkast won the award for Best New Artist. In a room filled with tension and clamor from rappers representing the East and West Coasts, Andre 3000 took the mic and, without any...
Mar 13, 2024
Most people have a favorite number, which can lead them to fully embrace it by wearing it as a pendant on a necklace or even as a tattoo. Former NFL wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson took it to another level by adding his own spin to his jersey number, 85 — making it his nickname in Spanish. Although he’s built a reputation based on his association with the number, Johnson’s life and legacy go beyond it. Born in Miami, FL, Johnson entered the NFL as the Cincinnati Bengals’ second-round draft pick in 2001. Throughout his career, Johnson completed 766 receptions; 11,059 yards; and 67 touchdowns. While he completed most of these athletic accomplishments with the Bengals for 10 seasons, he also played one year with the New England Patriots, earning a chance to compete in the 2012 “Super Bowl XLVI.” Johnson’s career did not land him the chance to earn the top NFL award as a Super Bowl champion, but his on-field career garnered significant earnings. According to Spotrac, Johnson...
Mar 11, 2024
One of the most viral stories to reach the internet was the 50-part TikTok series, “Who TF Did I Marry?” by TikTok user Reesa Teesa. In it, she described her tumultuous relationship with her ex-husband and the mind-boggling events that led to the ultimate demise of the marriage. Although there has been widespread opinion about her choices, others would not have felt the impact of her story without the TikTok platform. Now, creators like Reesa Teesa and viewers who enjoy the content could soon no longer have a place to gather. Recently, a bill in the House of Representatives advanced that could eliminate TikTok from being used and accessed in the United States. According to CBS News, the Chinese-based social media platform is the subject of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The 12-page bill was proposed to “protect the national security of the United States from the threat posed by foreign adversary controlled applications,” CBS News...
Mar 11, 2024
If the lyrics to “It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp” sound familiar, then it’s likely because of its connection to the 2005 film “Hustle and Flow,” starring veteran actor Terrence Howard. Critics and fans could argue that his portrayal in the Memphis, TN-based movie is one of Howard’s most recognizable roles. In it, he makes a solid effort to adapt to the culture and lingo of the mid-Southern city. “My ability to connect with an audience, I feel, was born in Memphis with ‘Hustle & Flow’ and what we shot,” Howard said ahead of the 2023 premiere of “Showdown at the Grand,” per The Daily Memphian. He continued, “Something about that city brings out the very best in me, and maybe it’s just because the city is no frills. It is what it is.” While “Hustle and Flow” may be a high point in his career, it is not the peak. Howard has starred in several films and television shows, including the drama series “Empire” (2015) and movies such as “The Best Man” (1999) and “Iron Man” (2008). The...
Mar 5, 2024
For six seasons between 2014 and 2020, Shonda Rhymes had television audiences on lock every Thursday, partially due to the thrilling drama series “How To Get Away With Murder.” Starring the iconic Viola Davis, the hour-long show chronicled the complicated daily life, career, and antics of its main character, Annalise Keating. Although Viola Davis gave viewers a captivating weekly performance, her time on the ABC series was not the first nor last time she would have audiences in a proverbial chokehold, enamored by her acting chops. According to an interview with the Harvard Business Review, Viola Davis was born on a former plantation in Saint Matthews, SC, and raised in poverty. She faced continued racism after moving to Rhode Island. However, her humble beginnings didn’t stop her from discovering her love of acting and using that as a tool for her success. “I had a passion for acting because it was therapeutic. Art heals the mind. Art is supposed to move you, shake you, make you...
Mar 4, 2024
In 2006, Yo Gotti released “That’s What’s Up (Intro),” and many from the rapper’s hometown of Memphis, TN, consider it a cultural anthem. The song sets up an open letter to his fans and haters, describing who he is, what he’s been through, and his current and impending impact at the time. Words in the opening lines serve as a preamble and manifest the upward trajectory of Yo Gotti’s success. “…Tha streets been beggin’, so I had to go ‘Back 2 Da Basics.’ This the intro to my life, entry to my world.” Although this mid-2000s track was an introduction of sorts, the song was not his entry point into the rap game. Born Mario Mims, Yo Gotti is a Memphis native who released his first musical work in 1996, titled “Youngsta’s On A Come Up,” under the alias Lil Yo. And a come-up was precisely what he’d experienced. Throughout his multi-decade career, Yo Gotti would release popular songs like “Rake It Up,” “I Know,” “Law,” and “Down in the DM” — working with top artists such as Nick Minaj,...
Mar 1, 2024
Whether rap fans agree or not, one thing that cannot be disputed is Nicki Minaj’s commercial success. A proud native of Trinidad and Tobago, Minaj took the rap game by storm with explosive creativity, catchy lyrics, and bass-pounding beats. While the 41-year-old entered the game with mixtapes and songs that still get the people moving, many Hip-Hop enthusiasts would argue that her verse on Kanye West’s “Monster” set her apart. Like her song “Starships,” Nicki Minaj’s career has catapulted her into chart-topping levels and garnered her uncanny influence. According to Billboard, Nicki Minaj has produced three No. 1 hits and had 23 of her songs become top ten singles. Her 2022 single, “Super Freaky Girl,” made history for the rapper. Billboard reports that “The track is Minaj’s first Hot 100 No. 1 as an unaccompanied artist and her third overall.” This was also the first time a Hip-Hop song by a solo woman would chart this way since Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop (That Thing)” in 1998. Minaj...
Mar 1, 2024
Self-care is not only a vibe, but it’s necessary. With many people tapping into what it means to engage in self-care, the concept has manifested itself in many forms. One of the ways people have historically engaged in self-care is through yoga. And WalkGood Yard provides spaces for yoga enthusiasts of all levels.
Feb 26, 2024
Play cousins is a cultural euphemism often adopted by the Black community. Through friendships, community organizations, and many other ties — people routinely choose their family regardless of bloodlines. However, in some unpredictable ways, those who could’ve been regarded as play cousins have actual biological connections. Niecy Nash-Betts brought this to the forefront, revealing she is related to fellow actors Danielle Brooks and Sterling K. Brown. In an Instagram post, the 53-year-old actress shared a picture posing with Brooks and Brown, congratulating them on their Oscar nominations and announcing to the world that the trio are blood-related cousins. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Niecy Nash (@niecynash1) “Both of my COUSINS are OSCAR NOMINATED ‼️‼️ Yes! We are blood-related! REAL cousins!” Nash-Betts wrote in the caption of her post. “I’m so proud of my fam! @thedaniellebrooks @sterlingkbrown I’m rooting for you!” Brooks, 34, is a first-time Oscar nominee for her...
Feb 22, 2024
In 2024, it is sometimes fascinating to believe Black people are still becoming the first in specific fields. While this speaks to a significant systemic issue that has and continues to hinder the progress of BIPOC individuals, it does not take away from the impactful work they are doing in and outside of their industry. Chief Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is an example of that. But, the gravitas of her story does not begin with the U.S. Supreme Court. Jackson was born in Washington, D.C., and later moved with her family to Florida to support her father’s law school endeavors. While in the coastal state, Forbes reports, Jackson thrived in school while her parents also made strides in their careers. Her mom rose to become a principal at a premiere magnet school, and her father became the county school board’s attorney. This model, along with her debate and speech club experience, would be the greatest contributor to Jackson’s success and future. Post high school, Jackson was accepted...
Feb 15, 2024
Remember when Beyoncé danced to O.T. Genasis’ hit song “Everybody Mad”? She had the entire “Coachella” audience screaming the iconic line, “I been getting to the money.” Although this is on brand for the Houston, TX, native, a long history of successful Black women can say the same thing about success. This is where Sheila C. Johnson enters the chat. Johnson is the first Black woman to become a billionaire, and her journey toward that fortune is just as fascinating as it is history-making. Born in 1949 and originally from McKeesport, PA — Johnson had a father who was a prominent neurosurgeon and a mother who was an accountant, per Black Past. Both career successes would prove to be a marker for Johnson’s accomplishments throughout her life. According to a Forbes profile, her parents enrolled her in an all-white Kentucky elementary school before desegregation. As a student, she pursued a love for music, becoming a concert violinist during high school. Johnson’s love for music would...
Feb 12, 2024
A glow-up is often defined as a critical point in a person’s life when things change for the better. And witnessing a person’s glow-up is inspiring and motivating for those following people for quite some time. One clear example of a glow-up with the culture standing on its proverbial feet is that of Quinta Brunson. Brunson, who was once known for her comedic skits and viral moments as a video producer for BuzzFeed, is an award-winning actress, director, and writer. Even before the BuzzFeed days, Brunson captivated audiences, displaying her comedic chops through impersonations. According to an interview with Glamour, Brunson would do impressions for her siblings while growing up in Philadelphia, PA. “Yeah, my brothers and sisters—they really liked to watch me imitate characters from their favorite shows. I don’t think I realized that I was doing impressions; it would just be like, “Quinta, say this.” And then I would say it, and I really enjoyed making them laugh,” Brunson stated....
Feb 8, 2024
If you want to know a part of Victoria Monét’s secret to success, look at her viral hit “On My Mama.” She credits “getting it from her mama,” but Monét has been trailblazing her own path in the music industry. The Atlanta-born, Sacramento-raised entertainer may have had her breakout moment due to the viral success of her “Jaguar II” album, but the mother to young Hazel is not new to the industry. In a profile by The Guardian, Victoria Monét had an early start as an entertainer performing with a dance camp as a pre-teen. During this time, she began writing music, prompting her to move to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. To make the move possible, the 34-year-old was encouraged by her mother to put away at least $4,000 to survive in the big city. However, her big break would come before saving the total amount. Monét met with mega-producer Rodney Jerkins in 2008 to be a part of a group he was forming called Purple Reign. Originally meant to be on the Motown label, things took a...
Feb 7, 2024
Christmas 2006 brought the world the award-winning musical film, “Dreamgirls.” Although fans raved about the stellar performances from the cast, the story of that film didn’t begin there. It started in 1981 as a Broadway musical featuring the iconic Sheryl Lee Ralph. Ralph brought original life to the character Deena Jones in the play and has been leaving marks on the industry ever since. Modern audiences may remember her as the educator and step-mom from the 1990s’ sitcom “Moesha.” As often displayed in memes and gifs, the culture also remembers her as the strict mother to Lauryn Hill’s character in “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.” Ralph’s multi-decade career is expansive regardless of what entry point fans and audience members find her. Currently, she portrays Barbara Howard in ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” having earned a 2022 Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Throughout the years, Ralph has proven to be a powerhouse on and off the screen. She is the...
Feb 6, 2024