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Grammy Award-winning singer Kirk Franklin has deepened his partnership with a media and entertainment company, which will increase funding for his creative endeavors. Franklin’s Fo Yo Soul Recordings and CLTRE Lab merged with Insignia Assets, established by Norman Gyamfi and Jonathan Jay, according to Billboard . The companies will be able to benefit from Insignia Assets’ portfolio, which encompasses recorded music and publishing, television, film, touring and events. The gospel artist will assume a new title, serving as Insignia Assets’ chief of creative services. “We’ve worked with Kirk for some time now—from the 2022 release of the multi-GRAMMY®-winning collaborative album, Kingdom, to producing sold-out arena tours with him consecutively over the past few years,” Gyamfi, Insignia Assets’ co-founder and CEO, told the music publication. “Today, we’re thrilled to fortify and deepen our partnership by welcoming Kirk to our executive team and by charting a course for the future with...
Many NFL players shine on the field, but not all translate that success into thriving businesses — Zaire Franklin is making it happen. The Indianapolis Colts linebacker has teamed up with his longtime mentor, Eric Taylor, to open a Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard franchise. Taylor was coaching youth football in Philadelphia, PA, when he met a 9-year-old Franklin, and their bond quickly developed. While he acknowledges that it may sound “crazy” for an adult to have much in common with a younger person, that’s exactly what it was like when he met Franklin. “I think the basis and foundation of our relationship comes with the love of our grandmothers,” Taylor shared in an interview with AFROTECH™ . “At the time, when Zaire was a young guy, his grandmother was instrumental in his life. She was at all the football games, she was very supportive.” Taylor had a similar bond with his own grandmother, so when Franklin lost both his mother and grandmother just months apart in 2013, their...
The roots of Gospel music can be traced through several popular genres. And the direction of Gospel music, specifically, has steadily evolved over time. One person who can get a lot of credit for its modern revolution is Kirk Franklin. Making his musical debut in 1993 with the album, “Kirk Franklin and The Family,” the Texas native has been blazing the charts and airwaves with faith-based hits meant to inspire those who encounter his music. However, the acclaim of his first album did not yield the monetary returns that typically come with a successful project.
The estate of the legendary Aretha Franklin is finally done with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). According to USA Today, the outstanding $7.8 million debt has officially been paid in full. This is a huge win for Franklin’s four sons who inherited her estate following her passing in 2018. Now, they will be able to reap the benefits from all revenue being brought in from her estate which, per a report, could be millions of dollars. Access to the affairs of Franklin’s estate has been an uphill battle due to IRS being in the picture. Any money being drawn in from her music, and even recent projects like the “Respect” biopic, was never seen by her children. Instead, it was placed into the hands of the government. AfroTech has previously reported on how messy things can get once a celebrity has passed and even noted the years-long process it often takes before families can see a dime of the money. Prince, James Brown, and even “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman all had estate...
When it comes to the Queen of Soul, no one could ever depose Aretha Franklin. Her contributions to the music industry — and, indeed, to pop culture — cannot be overstated. She stands as one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with 75 million albums sold to date and climbing. And according to Celebrity Net Worth, her likeness, music streams, and catalog have a total net worth of $80 million and climbing. The death of Aretha Franklin left a hole in the world of pop culture that will never be filled. On Aug. 16, 2018, she passed away at the age of 76-years-old, having succumbed to her battle with pancreatic cancer. Fortunately, however, her legacy lives on. She has four sons — all of whom are in the entertainment industry, and who have very successful careers of their own. Throughout her life, Aretha Franklin encouraged her sons’ careers — and even had them perform with her on more than one occasion. And now, her grandchildren are carrying on her legacy with music careers of...
What happens when TikTok energy collides with food delivery? You get BiteSight — a new, Black-owned app rising fast in the Apple App Store rankings. It all started with a viral trend: a sister playfully “bullying” TikTok into supporting her brother’s startup. The internet listened — and now, BiteSight is taking off. As of June 24, 2025, the app holds a rating of 4.9 stars out of 5 from over 1,200 reviews. @realeater.flou It’s called BiteSight and it’s really fun I promise 🙂 #foodelivery #nyc #founder ♬ original sound – Lucious ~ Building BiteSight🍔 “I built this because I wanted to see all of my friends’ favorite food delivery spots,” founder Lucious shared. “Now, I can, like, go to their profile, see the places they like and what they rated them… and everything you see, you can get it delivered in like 15 minutes. It’s really cool.” On BiteSight, users scroll through short videos and photos from some of the best real spots in New York City, according to its description on the App...
Consistency is often overlooked in the quest for success, overshadowed by more glamorous concepts like talent, innovation, or luck. Yet, consistency — the commitment to show up, day after day, and perform necessary tasks — separates those who achieve their goals from those who fall short. Whether you’re striving for career advancement , personal growth, or better habits , the power of consistency is undeniable. It’s the force that turns small actions into transformative results over time. Here are some of the best quotes about consistency that will inspire you to embrace this essential principle in your own life. Quotes That Show Consistency Is The Key To Success “Success isn’t always about greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” — Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson With this quote, Johnson reminds us that showing up and putting in steady effort is often more important than bursts of brilliance. “Success is the sum of small efforts,...
Tyler Perry says he has done more to support Black talent and generate wealth for his community than Hollywood has. The billionaire made the comments during a speech on Monday, June 9, at the 2025 BET Awards, which celebrated 25 years of Black excellence in entertainment. Legends Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin were also honored with the Ultimate Icon Award. The event featured performances from artists such as GloRilla, Leon Thomas III, and Lil Wayne as well. Perry, who has the largest Black-owned studio in America, delivered a powerful message about the resilience of the Black footprint and encouraged attendees to continue striving for excellence. “I have made more Black millionaires — hear me when I say this — than any studio in this city combined because I’m making footprints,” Perry said. “So I don’t care if you’re struggling, if you’re trying to make it, you’re trying to build a business. If you have a dream, keep making footprints.” View this post on...
Tuesdays often feel like the forgotten middle child of the workweek. The initial energy of Monday has waned, and the weekend still feels distant. It’s a day where motivation can dip , making it an ideal time to seek inspiration. Motivational quotes can serve as a quick pick-me-up, offering a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Whether you’re facing a challenging project, leading a team meeting, or simply trying to get through the day, here are some motivational quotes that can pump you up for work on Tuesdays. Starting the Day Right “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.” — Dalai Lama Starting your Tuesday with positivity can set the tone for a productive and fulfilling day. “Today is Thoughtful Tuesday. Try doing something nice for someone else whether it is a kind gesture or a positive remark.” — Anonymous Acts of kindness can uplift both the giver and the receiver, fostering a positive work environment. “Tuesday is a huge day.” — Ian Mcdougal...
Marvin Sapp has long been a pillar of gospel music — but his story isn’t just about hits and accolades. It’s a calling from the divine, a testament to personal resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one’s purpose. With a voice that rings with power and conviction, Sapp has built a legacy that spans faith, music, and community leadership. Marvin Sapp Is More Than A Singer According to Sapp’s church website, the 58-year-old is often quick to clarify his identity: “Not a singer that happens to preach, but a preacher called by God who is gifted to sing.” That dual calling has shaped every step of his journey. From his start singing at the age of 4 to joining the legendary gospel group Commissioned in 1990, and eventually launching his solo career in 1996, Sapp’s artistry has always been an extension of his ministry. As a solo artist, he released influential projects, including “Grace and Mercy,” “Thirsty,” and “Here I Am.” His 2007 hit, “Never Would Have Made It,” became a cultural...
DEI terms are being removed from some public colleges. According to a landing page from The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 17, titled “Responsibility of Governing Boards Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives,” on June 14, 2023. The bill restricts diversity, equity, and inclusion offices, as well as the programs, activities, and trainings across public institutions of higher education. It went into effect in January 2024. “DEI programs have been shown to be exclusive, they have been shown to be ineffective and they have shown to be politically charged,” Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, the ban’s author, stated on the Senate floor, according to The Texas Tribune in February 2024. “Many of these programs have been weaponized to compel speech instead of protecting free speech.” An internal memo shared in November 2024 by TikTok user momuniversity, who was a UT Austin educator at the time, provided updated...
Charlamagne tha God has been inspired by his father’s entrepreneurial spirit for as long as he can remember. His father, who owned a fish market and a construction business, told him long ago, “When you get a business, don’t put your name on it. Because people [will] hate on it for no reason.” He’s kept that advice in mind on his journey. Born Lenard McKelvey, Charlamagne has established himself as a radio host, television personality, comedian, and businessman. One of his latest ventures involves expanding Krystal Restaurants. In an interview with AFROTECH™ , Charlamagne said franchising has always been a goal of his, and partnering with Krystal, a beloved Southern staple, was a great opportunity. “It just became one of those things that me and my wife wanted to do,” he told AFROTECH™. “This is one of those situations that just happened pretty organically. And I was with it. My wife was with it. You know, my financial team was with it. And we made it happen.” Charlamagne and his...