August 30, 2018
By Kimberlee Buck
Contributing Writer
The 13th annual Taste of Soul Family Festival is less than 50 days away and the artist lineup is getting hotter. Last week (August 23), Hyundai Motor America announced author and journalist Roland Martin as the host for the Hyundai Soundstage followed by international party rocker and DJ to the stars, Brian “DJ B-Hen” Henry.
This week, Hyundai announced the appearance of rap legend and hip-hop trailblazer, Kurtis Blow. He went from spinning his own tracks under the name Kool DJ Kurt in high school to signing a record deal with Mercury Records, making him the first rapper signed to a major label. By the end of the 1970’s, his career took off. His first album “Christmas Rappin’” sold more than 400,000 copies and his second album, “The Breaks” went gold. Kurtis Blow went on to become the first rapper to tour the U.S. and Europe with the Commodores in 1980. Additionally, Kurtis Blow is the first rapper to use the drum machine, sample, and sample loop. He is also known for having the first rap music video which was created for one of his most popular songs, “Basketball.” Oh and did we mention, Kurtis Blow is the first rapper to appear in a soap opera (“One Life to Live”) and the first rap millionaire!
Kurtis Blow went on to release ten albums over a period of 11 years including, “Kurtis Blow,” “Deuce,” “Party Time” and many more.
As a founder and creator of hip-hop, Kurtis Blow has been responsible for rap hits by The Fat Boys and Run DMC. Some of the other artist Kurtis Blow has worked with includes, Love Bug Starski, Sweet Gee, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Full Force, Russell Simmons and Wyclef Jean.
Throughout his career, Kurtis Blow has had acting performances and music coordination in several movies and is the host and co-producer for an international film production on the West Coast gang scene called “Das Leben Amerikanischer Gangs.” Currently, Kurtis Blow is working on a project titled, “The History of Rap.” The film is being produced and written by Kurtis Blow and will be in theatres soon. Kurtis Blow has also worked in on-air radio.
Aside from his success in the entertainment industry, Kurtis Blow is an activist and an ordained minister. He has spoken out against racism, drug use and has been involved with the substance abuse organization, Phoenix House of California and the National Ad Counsel where he was a part of the “Say No to Drugs” campaign. Additionally, he is the co-founder, rapper, and worship leader of the Hip-Hop Church.
His commitment to youth and the Black community tie in with the purpose behind the creation of Taste of Soul, which is why he is more than excited to hit the stage at this year’s festival.
Whether you were grew up bumping Kurtis Blow on your cassette player, boombox or you just heard about him today, the sounds of this hip-hop icon will have you dancing, rapping and reminiscing on “back in the day” stories. Check out Kurtis Blow and other artists at the 13th annual Taste of Soul Family Festival, Saturday, October 20. Stayed tuned for next week when we announce the next musician in the Hyundai Soundstage lineup! Did you know you can get the latest Taste of Soul news sent straight to your phone? Download the Taste of Soul mobile app through Google Play or the Apple Store for stage lineups, vendor info and register to win a 2018 Hyundai Kona.
August 23, 2018
Aries
MAR 21 - APR 19
The greatest struggle you'll have this week when it comes to love is whether or not you want to "go there" with one of your colleagues. Honestly, it's the most beautiful energy and clearly there is someone you work with or who works in your industry that is totally into you. The problem is you. You're somehow convinced that by turning this professional alliance into something romantic that you'll wreck your career or reputation. Come on, Aries, is it really all that dramatic? Sparks are flying. And you're so close to a sexy sizzle.
Taurus
APR 20 - MAY 20
It's decision time, Taurus! You most likely have had one of your exes turn up in the last week or two, offering you an opportunity for reconciliation. Your heart and body have been stirred but your mind might have felt like total mush, not really knowing what the right decision would be. Is this a case of recycling or is it a genuine opportunity for a second chance? You just didn't know. This week, however, you'll have the answers. Very likely, you'll be at a crossroads, having a chance to choose between an old lover and a new soulmate who is trying to come in. Oh, Taurus. You've definitely got options.
Gemini
MAY 21 - JUN 20
While it's true that matters of the heart will be gorgeous this week for some, you seemed to draw the short straw this week, Gemini. Venus, the planet of love, is touring your 5th House of Dating and Pleasure, but will square off with Pluto on Sunday. This is likely to trigger the uglier aspects of your personality when it comes to love. You might find yourself uncharacteristically jealous or possessive of someone. You might start checking your lover's phone or computer out of paranoid suspicion. Or, you could just meet someone and know that this sexy man or woman is going to cause trouble in your life. And yet, you'll be captivated like a moth to a flame.
Cancer
JUN 21 - JUL 22
You've got a whole new perspective this week when it comes to love. Your intellect will be stimulated by your mate and you'll have more than one fascinating conversation about the big-picture topics in life that truly matter. The only distress you'll have is with domestic matters. Your partner might really have a problem letting go of control with a family situation. He or she might push to have their way so much that you find it off-putting and even repulsive. You'll have no trouble calling your mate out on their behavior.
Leo
JUL 23 - AUG 22
It's a week of illumination when it comes to intimacy and finances. It might also be a week of endings. If you're in a relationship, your partner might have some not-so-happy news to share about money. He or she might learn that a loan hasn't been approved for school as one example. He or she might also find out that they've lost their job and will need to rely on your financially for a short time. Fortunately, you're in a place where you can easily help. A Full Moon in your 8th House of Sharing on Sunday, however, also reveals your deepest intimate nature. You won't settle for anything less than a deep emotional, physical, and psychological bond.
Virgo
AUG 23 - SEP 22
The Sun enters your sign this week, lighting up all the best of you. You're shining your light in a way that is truly attractive to others, so if you're single, work it! In fact, when the Sun meets up with Saturn in your romance sector this Saturday, it's possible that you'll have an opportunity to date someone who is either much older or younger than you, but with whom you know there is substance. This person is worth getting to know. If you're in a relationship, Sunday's Full Moon in your partnership sector signals deep emotional bonding with your mate. How sweet!
Libra
SEP 23 - OCT 22
You might have a difficult time being diplomatic and graceful this week with your partner. Most likely, the two of you will be at odds regarding a domestic situation and, unfortunately, it'll be nearly impossible for you to take the high road. Instead, you might find yourself resorting to manipulative tactics in order to get your way or at least to make yourself feel as though you've got the upper hand. This won't bode well for the health of your relationship, so you may want to think twice. Besides, this dark negative energy doesn't look good on you.
Scorpio
OCT 23 - NOV 21
A Full Moon in your romance sector this Sunday will absolutely heighten love life happenings for you. If your current storyline is fairytale sweet, then this lunation is going to kick that "happily ever after" scenario into high gear. You might feel hypnotically and magically in love with your special someone. In fact, if this is you then no one and nothing is going to knock you down from your pedestal of bliss. Full Moons, however, are also about illumination and sometimes endings. If you are involved in a relationship where your partner has any unhealthy addiction, then this is when you'll see it clearly. And your romantic bubble will burst.
Sagittarius
NOV 22 - DEC 21
Your love life is in massive chaotic transition this week. Mars is the ruler of your romance sector and will shift into direct motion next Monday the 27th. What that means this week is that Mars is at station -- not moving forward or backward. Mars has no idea how to act under these conditions and, typically, it results in anger expressed in the wrong way or action taken in the wrong way. This is the week that you might find this all happening in your love life or with a lover. Whatever you do, don't give into the chaos right now. Keep calm and carry on.
Capricorn
DEC 22 - JAN 19
Your biggest problem in your love life right now might have to do with the fact that you feel you're dating someone you aren't willing to show off to others. This sounds terribly shallow, but the truth is that because you might be more successful than your current flame, it's wearing on you. You are someone who might really want to be proud of your partner and their achievements. If you're dating someone with no ambition, goals, or aspirations then you might ask yourself why you're even with this person. It might not be the right match for you.
Aquarius
JAN 20 - FEB 18
Your love life is so close to getting back on track. In fact, Aquarius, you're extremely close to a significant breakthrough in life and love -- in every area of your world. This week, however, everything is still recalibrating, so you'll need to remain patient just a bit longer. You've got the ability to have conversations with your sweetheart that no longer leave you feeling confused. That, in and of itself, is a huge win. Even so, overall it's as if you're still half asleep at the wheel. Next week you'll finally wake up.
Pisces
FEB 19 - MAR 20
This week it might feel like nothing else matters except your relationship. With the Sun moving into Virgo and your partnership sector, you are truly shining a light on the work you put into a committed relationship. You are ready, willing, and able to provide what your partner needs in terms of support and communication. In fact, it might seem as if your entire world revolves around your mate now as you concentrate on doing what he or she needs in order to feel truly loved by you. The good news? All of this will be reciprocated. Yes, you are blessed!
August 23, 2018
By Kimberlee Buck
Contributing Writer
During the 2017 Taste of Soul Family Festival, Hyundai Motor America brought star power to the StarQuest Stage with sounds from R&B sensations Melanie Fiona and Brandy, rap icons Kool Moe Dee and Doug E. Fresh, and music from Candace Coles & The CJ Legacy Band, Raffia Ford and DJ B-Hen. This time, Hyundai has returned to the festival for the third year in a row with a new stage name and brand new artists for your enjoyment!
The Hyundai Soundstage (previously known as the StarQuest Stage), will be hosted by none other than author, journalist, and television host Roland Martin. During his career, Martin has had the opportunity to interview politicians, athletes and entertainers throughout various platforms including CNN.
He is also the host and managing editor of TV One Cable Network and NewsOneNow. Recently Martin announced the launch of his daily digital show #RolandMartinUnfiltered, where viewers will see him travel across the country reporting on news event from remote locations. The show is set to air on September 4, 2018.
What’s a stage and performance without a DJ; just an okay show. Which is why Hyundai has welcomed back DJ to the stars, DJ B-Hen to rock the mic and turn the Hyundai Soundstage from just an okay show to an amazing concert.
Eight years ago, Brian Henry (DJ B-Hen) left his nine-to-five job to become an international party rocker and professional DJ. A dream that seemed crazy and extremely difficult has led him on the path to success. He has performed at backyard barbeques, local clubs, HBCU gigs, weddings and more. Although he is still young, it is safe to say, his memorable experience and career highlight has been performing for former First Lady Michelle Obama and other private events for the Obamas. DJ B-Hen has a passion for music and giving back and Taste of Soul is the perfect place to combine the two.
Martin and DJ B-Hen are just the beginning of the many things that will take place on the Hyundai Soundstage. The stage will also feature the annual StarQuest Singing Competition where contestants will show off their vocal talent for a shot at stardom.
Check out the Hyundai Soundstage at the 13th annual Taste of Soul Family Festival on Saturday, October 20. Hyundai will announce new celebrity appearances and performers every week leading up to Taste of Soul. Don’t miss out; download the Taste of Soul mobile app through Google Play or the Apple Store to get the latest updates on stage lineups, vendors and more.
August 16, 2018
By MESFIN FEKADU
AP Music Writer
Stevie Wonder visited an ailing Aretha Franklin at her home in Detroit on Tuesday.
Franklin’s publicist Gwendolyn Quinn told The Associated Press on Tuesday that the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Franklin's ex-husband, actor Glynn Turman, also visited the Queen of Soul, who is seriously ill.
A person close to Franklin, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the person was not allowed to publicly talk about the topic, told the AP on Monday that the singer is ill. No more details were provided.
Franklin canceled planned concerts earlier this year after she was ordered by her doctor to stay off the road and rest up. The 76-year-old announced plans to retire last year, saying she would perform at “some select things.”
Fans, friends and musicians influenced by Franklin offered positive words to the iconic singer when news broke that she was ill, including Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey, Chaka Khan, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tyler Perry, Missy Elliott and Wayne Brady.
At her concert in Detroit on Monday night with Jay-Z, Beyonce thanked Franklin for her “beautiful music” and said “we love you.”
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton tweeted Monday that he and Hillary Clinton “are thinking about Aretha Franklin tonight & listening to her music that has been such an important part of our lives the last 50 years.
“We hope you’ll lift her up by listening and sharing her songs that have meant the most to you,” Clinton wrote.
In an interview with the AP on Monday, Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown said, “May I wish the Queen of Soul all the best.
“Your music has moved and inspired a generation,” he added, “so my prayers are with you. Wishing you all the best, queen.”
Actress-singer Mandy Moore, who stars in “This Is Us” with Brown, said Franklin has “the most incredible legacy.
“Who is not a fan? I don’t think there is anyone that Aretha Franklin’s music has not touched or influenced in one way or another,” she told the AP. “She’s the best of the best.”
Fans gathered Tuesday in Lafayette Park, directly in front of the White House, to pray for Franklin. With a saxophonist playing nearby, Rocky Twyman clutched a handwritten get-well card made from a white poster and appealed to passing tourists to sign it and pray for the singer.
The card read: “Book of Love and Healing for Aretha, the Queen.”
Twyman, of Rockville, Maryland, described himself as a longtime fan. He said he and his religious group held a prayer vigil outside the White House for Franklin in 2013, and she got better then.
“We’re hoping that God will shine down upon her and heal her again,” he said.
Tuva Johannessen, a tourist visiting from Norway, signed Twyman’s get-well card. The 34-year-old said she has been listening to Franklin’s music all her life.
“I loved how she has an ability to touch people’s heart with her music,” Johannessen said.