[EXCLUSIVE] @MarkiceMoore Shows Us the Art of Winning....

We had the pure blessing of connecting with actor Markice Moore, who is currently starring in John Singleton’s new series on FX, ‘Snowfall’! 

Moore has been an inspiration to so many in his lifetime, and he sits down to talk with us about his battle, and overcoming, with depression. He also gives us the details on the series Snowfall, as well as his role in Tyler Perry’s ‘The Paynes’. 

Despite the curveball that life has thrown this brother, he’s absolutely winning in every sense of the word, and we’re thrilled to promote his success here! Tune in for our conversation at 4:15pm Saturday, July 22 by clicking http://tobtr.com/10154427 

[EXCLUSIVE] THE CROSS OUT 3: UP CLOSE WITH @CALICOJONEZ, @REALCURTISSNOW & @SWISHPZY

The work that SwishGang Films has been doing in terms of their films has been so amazing for the entertainment industry as a whole. Through this series alone, Swish Pzy, Calico Jonez, and Curtis Snow have been able to provide so much direction for so many individuals, and their changing lives. As they prepped for the release of their new film, The Cross Out 3 (Screening is actually today), we sat and talked about the film, and what it means not only for them, but for the many people who have been able to take part. As a collective, they continue to open so many doors for our culture that otherwise would not be open, and they are providing so many opportunities. 

Check out our exclusive, and definitely go out and check out the screening. More importantly, keep your eyes peeled for them because they have a lot in the works that will surely do some positive things in this game. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: It’s so dope to see what you, Curtis Snow, and Calico Jonez have going on out there. The Cross Out 3 is really hot, and the screening is something to be reveled. Kudos for everything. 

Swish Pzy: I appreciate that

Calico Jonez: We all appreciate it. God is good. We stay consistent and try to keep something going. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Talk about all that went into the third installment?

Swish Pzy: Pretty much, it’s a continuation from Part 2. Wesat down and came up with a scenario of what’s going on today. We wanted to give an outlook on what can still happen out here. 

Calico Jonez: Right. The Cross Out itself is based on a true story of friends, turned hustlers, turned individuals who cross each other out for financial stardom. It tells how it all started, and a view on the urban life. Those from that genre can relate to it very well. The Cross Out 2 is so deep, and a lot of it is unexpected. They say money is the root of all evil. This is primarily the take of knowing the situations that can get you crossed out. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I’ve had the opportunity to see The Cross Out 2 online. For those who have not seen it, and also haven’t seen Part 1, talk about the overall premise, and how each leads to the next?

Swish Pzy: Pretty much, in The Cross Out Part 1, it’s a group of individuals who set out on a mission to take over the city in a legit way. We linked up, and it was a bunch of chaos, backstabbing, and conniving ways, and it starts the first definition of watching this person, and allowing them to set themselves up. It’s like a ‘Menace II Society’ feeling, especially with what’s going on til this day, and dealing with gaining trust. Part 2 took us from Tennessee to Atlanta. We cleaned up everything in Knoxville as far as pointing out the real from the fake, and it was more about catching up with unfamiliar individuals. We were doing the same thing we wanted to do from our city. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: A lot of people are opening their eyes to your movement. I love the Menace comparison. I did get that feel from Part 2. It’s interesting to place it in that time, because I just connected with Eiht, and it’s just interesting to see how things today mirror things at that time. As far as seeing our faces in roles like this, it needs to be more, and you’re doing that, allowing our stories to be told the way we want. It’s commendable because without people like you, a lot of people won’t be seen. Regardless of the doors opened already, you’re continuing to open them. 

Swish Pzy: That’s one thing I strive for. It’s a lot unrecognized in our communities. They only recognize chaos, murder, or something to do with the police or government taking control. I wanted to reach out, not just to my community, but to the world, to show the everyday struggle in our communities. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Will this series of films continue after the new installment? Will there be more parts?

Swish Pzy: We can say it’s kind of a pay attention, listen, and learn type of thing. It’s a life line. I wanted to grab their attention, and allow people to answer that for themselves. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: What happens specifically with this film after the screening? 

Swish Pzy: We’ll be showing previews of the screening, and we’re also doing an after party at club Boogalou, and Club Truth. 

Calico Jonez: We’ll eventually do an online release of the movie. We also have 3 other movies in the works. This will be the last all the way urban film. We’re doing a horror film, and another movie geared towards women. The Cross Out had to be completed, and it couldn’t be done in just 2 films.

U.G. Digital Magazine: What is your overall goal for the film?

Calico Jonez: I have a lot of films that will touch on different areas. The Cross Out was a street story that we were putting out regardless of who wanted it. Pzy really wanted to bring this story to life. Now we will show the world that we are not stagnant, and only doing urban films. We have bigger ideas, and a bigger picture in showing versatility. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Calico, your transition to film has been awesome. What took you to film, coming from music?

Calico Jonez: What made me start doing movies was I was doing a soundtrack. I wanted to make my mixtapes more like a soundtrack. I can’t take all the credit. Pzy put together the vision too. As we put the first movie together it all fell into place as it should. From there, we wanted to make Part 2, and now part 3, even better. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: As far as people in here, how did you cast?

Swish Pzy: Me personally, I took it upon myself to go with people I deal with on a daily. I don’t have a lot of friends, so it’s all business to me. 

Calico Jonez: I utilize everything from social media to other outlets. You have so many up and coming actors and actresses you run into. You can meet the next Jeezy, or the next Tyler Perry, online. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I understand as far as keeping the circle close. Too many people is a path to trouble. 

Swish Pzy: Right. So I took these individuals and showcased their problems. Calico, he stays busy and keeps his hands into something positive for the community. As for Snow, the movie “Snow in the Bluff” did good numbers. It was a good movie to get an understanding of what’s going on in the city and state. We put our heads together and stepped away from the music. Everybody is telling their stories in music. We wanted to tell ours and show it to you at the same time, and let you see things we don’t see on a daily basis, and what happens when things aren’t taken care of. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I agree. Everybody is doing music. It’s hot to see us on the movie front. What else is to come following the screening?

Swish Pzy: We have projects done, waiting to be edited. We’re trying to make it all make sense. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I really appreciate what you’re both doing on your end. We need this really bad, and you’re delivering it to the world. The transition our culture is making in this industry is amazing. Thank you so much for that. Today’s connection was awesome. 

Swish Pzy:  We appreciate you giving us the platform to speak. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Where can everyone keep up with what you have going on?

Swish Pzy: I do a lot of promoting on Instagram, which is @swishpzy, and it’s the same on YouTube! We’re doing a lot of promoting that way. We stay so busy that we don’t do a website. 

Calico Jonez: Definitely look out for the SwishGang website that will come soon. Also on my Instagram, @calicojonez. My PR keeps everything together. Also at calicojonezworld.com

U.G. Digital Magazine: No doubt man. Thank you so much again…

[AUDIO] @LEDISI RETURNS WITH NEW BANGER, "HIGH"....

It's a great time for soul music right now, as singer and songwriter Ledisi has returned with what is guaranteed to be a huge hit. Check out her new sing, "High", below...

Ledisi's new album is due later this year!

Buy the single! iTunes - http://smarturl.it/LedisiHigh_iTu Stream it on: Apple Music - http://smarturl.it/LedisiHigh_Ap Spotify - http://smarturl.it/LedisiHigh_Sp Official Website: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_W Facebook: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_FB Twitter: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_TW Instagram: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_IG YouTube: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_YT YouTube Vevo: http://smarturl.it/Ledisi_YTV Music video by Ledisi performing High. (C) 2017 Verve Label Group, a Division of UMG Recordings, Inc. http://vevo.ly/L1uzcO

[SAVVY GIRL MONEY] SAVVY GIRL MONEY with ASHIRA NELSON; VOL. 1

Savvy Girl Money was something that came along suddenly, but we knew instantly that it would prove to be an amazing addition to U.G. Digital. In our communities, there's no question that we're missing many of the fundamentals of personal finance, planning for our futures, and securing the futures of our children. This is were Mrs. Ashira Nelson steps in. This Cleveland native has taken on the task of educating those within the community in any way she can on ways that they, too, can save money and plan appropriately for the futures of their families. Through Savvy Girl Money, she offers an amazing service, and we're ahppy to share that service here in U.G. Digital. Currently, we're planning to offer more from Ashira in the form of a regular column. Until now, check out the interview we were able to complete with this financial guru!

U.G. Digital Mag: We’re so grateful for this opportunity. I was checking some things out and realized what you were working on. I know last time we spoke you were making jewelry. Imagine my surprise when I saw you were now doing things to help the community within the financial world. What really took you into that area? I preface that with the fact that you have been a CPA for some time. 

Ashira Nelson: Right. I’m a CPA, and I’ve been in the field for six years now. I’ve worked with so many different types of clients, primarily wealthy clients. I started out with PNC Bank; then I went to an investment firm; and now I’m at a CPA firm. I always see a common denominator among the clients, regardless of where I am. I was constantly working with money, budgets, and how they financially plan their lives. I said it had to be something to take away and help my community. Growing up, I had never heard of some of these things related to tax planning and financial planning. There’s people I know who don’t have access to this information. That’s kind of how I got here. Personal finance has always been my passion. Jewelry, I started because I always saw myself as a business woman. My dad always franchised restaurants. As a young girl, I always saw myself in the light of being a business owner. There wasn’t any passion behind it though. I came into Savvy Girl Money because it represents everything about me and what I do everyday. It’s a way for me to educate and help my community. 

U.G. Digital Mag: This is one of the biggest things our community struggles with. It’s difficult for a lot of people because often, they don’t make a lot of money. I saw through your site that you make things very simple in that respect. It’s the smallest things that will help you save money. You talked about going to an event for your dad, and opting to pull something from your closet as opposed to shopping for something. That saved you $40. What gave you the thought and sense that this would help people everywhere?

Ashira Nelson: I have so many friends and co-workers who feel the need to get a new outfit for events. This video showed that you can mix and match different things and still make it look great without spending extra cash. I felt like I had to buy something new. Ultimately, I said I don’t need this new outfit. I have so many clothes in my closet. Sometimes, I think we find ways to spend cash when we don’t need the things we spend it on. It’s just for the moment. 

U.G. Digital Mag: Personally, I’ve been in that same head space where I’ve bought something just for the sake of buying it. I’ve pulled things out of the closet that I’ve never worn. 

Ashira Nelson: Right. I wear something, and think that wow, I forgot I had it. I never needed it. 

U.G. Digital Mag: The other thing I saw was you featured your daughter. It’s great to start this at a younger age. How much do you feel she understands though, considering her age?

Ashira Nelson: My goal wasn’t for her to get like this in-depth personal finance lesson. My goal was to start the foundation. I want to take the same approach as people do with their ABC’s. When you first teach your child their alphabet, you make a song, and keep repeating it. I want her to slowly collect on different topics. I don’t want it to be her first time when she steps out into the world. I want to teach her the foundation and upper level things before she goes to college. Why not start now? 

U.G. Digital Mag: I think it makes perfect sense. At her age, she’s in the sculpting years, and it’ll stick with her. 

Ashira Nelson: Exactly. I’m trying to mold her. 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s great. When I was in high school, I hate to say that I never learned a lot of that stuff. It’s bad because then when you go to college, it’s much easier to get caught in the circle of credit cards and whatnot. It definitely makes a big difference. Where do you envision Savvy Girl Money going as a brand?

Ashira Nelson: My vision is to start doing speaking engagements; talking to millennials, talking to families about different financial topics, removing the stigma of talking about finances at home, and make finance topics the norm. Growing up, my parents never discussed money with us. I didn’t even know how much they made. It was never in any conversation. There was no talking about bank accounts, or balancing a check book. I want to remove the taboo and change the perspective so our kids are not so far behind. 

U.G. Digital Mag: A lot of parents don’t realize that they hinder their children by not talking about it. 

Ashira Nelson: Right. I sympathize though because I am a parent. I don’t blame my parents for not educating me because I felt like they weren’t educated. I want to break the generational curse, and give a script on how to introduce these topics. A lot of parents don’t know because they didn’t get it either. 

U.G. Digital Mag: You also have to understand that our parents were also trying to keep us from growing up too fast. That’s what a lot of it was. I just did get an allowance, and I knew the value of a dollar, and that I had to work to make money. But the real particulars came later in life. It’s great though what you’re doing with your daughter. 

Ashira Nelson: Thank you. Just introduce it a little early so they get the basics now, and build on it when they get to high school. You don’t want to wait that late and you’re just getting a bank account. Start a little early, and get your child a little bank card. Simple things like that will help. 

U.G. Digital Mag: Where can everyone find you online?

Ashira Nelson: We’re on Facebook, and also have a YouTube channel. I’m on Instagram as well. I try to give consistent information on each platform. YouTube and Facebook is where you find the most engagement. 

U.G. Digital Mag: Now you’re also mentoring. Talk about that?

Ashira Nelson: Yes. I have a new video coming out speaking to incoming freshmen. It’s titled being savvy on the yard. I’m giving tips on them entering their first year of college. I talk about picking meal plans, going out on the weekend, and how to navigate. 

U.G. Digital Mag: That’s awesome. Congratulations and kudos for that. It takes a lot of time and effort. I wish I had that when I first went to college. It’s amazing that you’re taking the time. 

Ashira Nelson: Thank you. I’m trying to be the woman I needed when I was little. I’m trying to be that woman. 

U.G. Digital Mag: I think it’s great. Thank you so much and we will be following you religiously. 

Ashira Nelson: Thank you so much for watching and extending the offer.

@thedangelo NEO-SOUL MASTERPIECE, 'BROWN SUGAR', REMASTERED & EXPANDED FOR NEW DELUXE EDITION...

July 14, 2017  -- D'Angelo's platinum-certified debut, 1995's neo-soul masterpiece Brown Sugar, is newly remastered and expanded for a 2CD and digital Deluxe Edition to be released August 25 by Virgin/UMe. Remastered by GRAMMY®-winning engineer Russell Elevado, Brown Sugar's Deluxe Edition adds 21 rare tracks, including remixes by CJ Mackintosh, Dallas Austin, King Tech, Erick Sermon and Incognito, as well as instrumentals and a cappella versions. Of the 21 newly added tracks, 15 were previously available only on vinyl and seven will make their commercial release debuts on the new edition. 

Brown Sugar's 2CD Deluxe Edition is presented in a digipak with a 20-page booklet featuring an essay by noted author and filmmaker Nelson George, rare photographs, and lyrics for the album's 10 original tracks. Preorder Brown Sugar (Deluxe Edition) here:  https://UMe.lnk.to/BrownSugarDeluxePR

Released July 4, 1995, D'Angelo's Brown Sugar album heralded a new direction for soul music, bridging tradition and innovation. D'Angelo, then 21 years old, wrote, arranged, performed and produced most of the album himself, inspired by classic jazz, gospel, soul, and hip-hop and using a mix of vintage and new equipment to realize his creative vision. 

In the Deluxe Edition booklet, D'Angelo's Brown Sugar co-producer Bob Power writes: "D was one of those artists that came not just fully formed, but truly genre-bending; genre-creating is really more like it."

D'Angelo's Brown Sugar collaborators also included A Tribe Called Quest's Ali Shaheed Muhammadfor the title track and Raphael Saadiq for "Lady." The first album to be dubbed "neo-soul," Brown Sugarspent 65 weeks on the Billboard 200 albums chart and drew praise from music critics around the world. In his four-star album review for Rolling Stone, Cheo Hodari Coker wrote, "Brown Sugar is a reminder of where R&B has been and, if the genre is to resurrect its creative relevance like a phoenix rising from the ashes, where it needs to go."

"Young D'Angelo was duly anointed the new musical messiah, charged with leading the culture into a new promised land," writes Nelson George in his Deluxe Edition essay.

Brown Sugar received four GRAMMY Award® nominations. The groundbreaking album is featured in Mojo's list of 100 Modern Classics and in Rolling Stone's Essential Recordings of the '90s.

blackmessiah.co

D'Angelo:  Brown Sugar (Deluxe Edition) [2CD, digital]

CD 1 (Remastered album, plus bonus tracks)
1.   Brown Sugar
2.   Alright
3.   Jonz In My Bonz
4.   Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine
5.   Sh*t, Damn, Motherf*cker
6.   Smooth
7.   Cruisin'
8.   When We Get By
9.   Lady
10. Higher
Bonus Tracks
11. Brown Sugar A Cappella (released on 12" single)
12. Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine A Cappella (released on promotional 12" single)
13. Brown Sugar Instrumental (released on 12" single)
14. Lady Just Tha Beat Mix Instrumental w/Chorus (Mixed by DJ Premier; released on CD Maxi-Single)
15. Brown Sugar Alternate Version (released on 12" single)

CD 2 (More Sugar)
1.   Brown Sugar King Tech Remix feat. Kool G. Rap (released on 12" promotional single)
2.   Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine Def Squad Remix feat. Redman (Remixed by Erick Sermonfor Funk Lord Productions; released on 12" single)
3.   Cruisin' Cut The Sax Remix (Remix by King Tech; Released on 12" single)
4.   Lady Just Tha Beat Mix/featuring AZ (Remixed by DJ Premier for Works of Mart Productions, Inc.; released on CD Maxi-Single)
5.   Brown Sugar Soul Inside 808 Mix (Mix by DJ Dodge; released on U.K. 12" single)
6.   Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine Two Way Street Mix (Remixed by DJ Premier for Works of Mart Productions, Inc.; released on promotional 12" single)
7.   Cruisin' Dallas Austin Remix (released on 12" single)
8.   Lady 2B3 Shake Dat Ass Mix (Remix produced by Neville Thomas and Pule Pheto for 2B3 Productions; released on U.K. CD Maxi-Single)
9.   Brown Sugar Incognito Molasses Remix (released on "She's Always In My Hair" promotional 12" single)
10. Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine Dreamy Remix (Remixed by Erick Sermon for Funk Lord Productions; released on promotional 12" single)
11. Cruisin' Wet Remix (released on CD single)
12. Brown Sugar Dollar Bag Mix (released on U.K. 12" single)
13. Cruisin' God Made Me Funky Remix (released on promotional 12" single)
14. Brown Sugar CJ Mackintosh Remix (Additional production and Remix by CJ Mackintosh; released on the various artists CD collection Nu Classic Soul)
15. Lady CJ Mackintosh Mix Radio Edit (Additional production and Remix by CJ Mackintosh; released on U.K. CD Maxi-Single)
16. Cruisin' Who's Fooling Who Mix (released on promotional 12" single)

SOURCE: Universal MusicEnterprises, PRNewswire

[NEW AUDIO]: @Sevyn: HOW MANY....

Sevyn Streeter is back with a new album, "Girl Disrupted", and you can listed to the single "How Many" below....

"Girl Disrupted" is now available with all online retailers, Apple Music, and more!

Released via Atlantic Records #GirlDisrupted available now: https://Atlantic.lnk.to/GirlDisruptedAY Follow Sevyn Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sevyn Twitter - https://twitter.com/sevyn Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sevynstreeter Website - http://www.sevynstreeter.com/

[NEW AUDIO] @Sevyn: OL SKOOL.... FEATURING @DejLoaf & @Jeremih

R&B Songstress Sevyn Streeter is back with a new album, 'Girl Disrupted", and you can hear "Ol' Skool" featuring Jeremih & Dej Loaf below....

"Girl Disrupted" is now available with all online retailers, Apple Music, and more!

Released via Atlantic Records #GirlDisrupted available now: https://Atlantic.lnk.to/GirlDisruptedAY Follow Sevyn Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sevyn Twitter - https://twitter.com/sevyn Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sevynstreeter Website - http://www.sevynstreeter.com/

NEW MAGAZINE, "THE ENTERTAINMENT PLUG", IS ON THE WAY....

Cleveland, OH ; Jul 11, 2017 -- After three and a half years publishing Urban Grandstand Digital, we are expanding with yet another brand in the publishing realm. 

"The Entertainment Plug" has been established as a new brand, and is due to launch fully in the coming months. Also focusing on the entertainment industry, it will encompass stories and articles of more a wide variety. The publisher, James Johnson, who is also responsible for publishing U.G. Digital Magazine, had much to say about the new brand. 

"It's interesting, to say the least. Publishing, writing, and connecting with artists and more has truly become my life, and I absolutely enjoy it. My partner and I started Urban Grandstand Digital Media & Publishing only a few years ago, and it's grown tremendously. I find now that we're afforded the opportunity to connect with so many artists, entrepreneurs, and more who don't necessarily fall in the realm of "Urban", so to speak. In some ways, it's limiting for our brand, because we ultimately want to be an entertainment source for everyone. That, alone, inspired the creation of "The Entertainment Plug". This will ultimately allow us to expand our brand in a way we never imagined when we first launched U.G. Digital Magazine." 

"The Entertainment Plug" will follow much of the same premise, in the sense that all content will be of a positive nature. "The thing with our brand is we want to be the ones who push for positivity in journalism. Many of our peers are around to give you the latest gossip. Unfortunately, a lot of that news and information is of a negative nature, and frankly, damaging in a number of ways for the artist involved. We're really about building brands and promoting growth. I feel like the whole idea of the field of Journalism is to share the news, but do that with a positive spin. I know what I look for in articles, and I feel there's a lot of people who look for the same thing, so we aim to deliver that quality material", James went on to comment. 

The recruiting process has already started for "The Entertainment Plug", and while a number of writers are on board, the search continues. If you're interested in contributing, especially students, you can definitely reach out currently to info@ugdigitalmag.com. 

More information will be coming very soon as an official launch date is set in motion. 

MC EIHT: WHICH WAY IZ WEST | EXCLUSIVE [ @eiht0eiht ]

It’s always an amazing honor to talk to one of the heroes of hip-hop, as I often call our legends. Without a doubt, MC Eiht falls within that category. For any of your who were around in the nineties, you know exactly what I meant. Eiht entertained the masses with his tales of struggle, triumph, and glory in Compton. His presence and his magic had so much significance for me, and I’m sure it’s the same for many others. Many people, whether in his own surroundings, or around the world, were inspired in some way or another to pursue music, entertainment, or more. 

I can proudly say that I was one of those. Always excited by the industry, It was pretty easy for me to look beyond some of the perceived negative to see that figures like Eiht were absolutely living their dreams through music. I strongly admire the fact that while Eiht has remained mostly low-key through the years, he has managed to maintain his relevance, appearing on various tracks here and there with many of his hip-hop peers. In doing that, he has also maintained his own character, doing what he does best and not variating to match the times so much. He’s always continued to give its the hard-hitting flow that we are accustomed to from him. 

That makes his new album all the more better. “Which Way Iz West” has been a long time coming, for anyone who has truly followed Eiht, and more importantly his relation with DJ Premier. The two have worked seamlessly together for such a long time, and it’s always been anticipated that the two would collaborate on a full-length project. That project has finally come to pass with “Which Way Iz West”. 

We had an amazing opportunity to connect with the legend himself one day before release to talk about the influence he has had in this industry throughout his career which has span well over two decades. It was amazing to hear his thoughts on the industry, and how he is keeping real hip-hop alive. It was amazing to hear him proudly big up other legends like L.L. Cool J. and Kool Moe Dee! He’s paying homage to the West coast with this album, but more importantly, he’s paying homage to Hip-Hop! Check the exclusive out below!

U.G. Digital Magazine: The album is dropping man, I would love you to talk more and expand upon the process of putting it together.

MC Eiht: Well basically, I’ve just been working the past few years to find the sound I felt was familiar, and paid homage to west coast music. A lot of music today is different to the ear, but we have a lot of core fans who grew up in the nineties and who appreciate it. I just felt with trying to direct this record, I wanted to reach them, or people who appreciated what hip hop stood for at that time. It was my direction to capture that feel good music of yesterday when music had substance to fans and to artists. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: You speak a great deal of truth in that perspective. I’m one of those fans. I think back to my high school days, listening to you. You’re relevance is still strong. When you look at your history, it’s well over twenty albums, and we appreciate that. Music has changed drastically in the sense that many artists don’t work the same anymore. No one works as hard to do this anymore or to get noticed. 

MC Eiht: I know, because I was reading somewhere, and someone said rap was a young man’s game to where it’s about the money you got, or the broads you’re fuckin’, or being on cocaine and pills. If rap is a young man’s game, it’s just a different lane that we came from. I don’t jump into the game to hate on today’s rap music, or what these cats are doing to entertain. I was just brought up in a time where it meant something to pen a song. It meant something to deliver quality music to your fans. Bullshit didn’t get any kinda play with us back in the day. I know it was payola, but still, my music has substance and it’s more than just braggadocios effect. Not to say people didn’t brag back theneither because I love me some L.L. Cool J, or Kool Moe Dee, you know what I’m saying but..

U.G. Digital Magazine: …but they talked about so much more than that though!

MC Eiht: Exactly. You know, shout out to L.L. Cool J. He had substance: I can’t Live Without My Radio, I’m Bad, 4,3,2,1, we had that. But now, the youth can youtube it, and iTunes it, and whatever, all they want to hear about is the Lamborghini, or the choke chain. But it’s cats from our era who are still around, and they appreciate the substance. I wanted to give back to fans who have been riding with hip-hop from the beginning, and who deserve a decent project. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I appreciate the fact that the people you worked with have been here working just as hard. The Lady of Rage, Xzibit, and more. You’re clearly on your own page, and sticking to your truth. We appreciate that man..

MC Eiht: I can’t get caught up in trying to compete with cats. Been there, done that. My lane is just that. I stay in my lane with my music. I’m not trying to compete because if I’ve been consistent with my clientele all this time, then I’ll remain that way. They don’t expect me to be over 40, talking about how may girls I ran through, or look at my car, rims, and chain. Been there, done that. You have to be grown enough to know what substance is. Reaching out to cats I’ve had respect for, to the point they have been hustling as long as I have, and people forget about when they were on top, and still are, we just wanted to reach out to those we respected. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I feel like this has been written for you and Premier for a long time. What took so long?

MC Eiht: I mean, you know. He’s a busy cat. You can’t force a square peg in a round hole. Timing is everything. I’ve known Premier my whole career. Him doing his thing and touring, me doing mine and touring, him being in New York, and me in Cali, it all was done for a reason and it’s set up to where shit will slide into motion. Our friendship is what brought us to this place, and having respect for what he’s done. We sat down as friends, and he came at me asking what I was doing, and saying music was so messed up. I let him hear what I was working on, and we decided to finally do this project. He felt like I deserved it, and being a pioneer of West coast hip-hop, he felt it was time. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I wholeheartedly agree with that, but also, the reality is you’ve inspired so many people. Looking at the albums, and even more your collaborations, you’ve inspired a lot. Til’ this day, your collaboration on Snoop’s “Blue Carpet Treatment”, “Candy”, is one of the dopest cuts I’ve heard. It’s funny that my son appreciates the whole vibe of that song too, and it shows you’re reaching all groups.

MC Eiht: I mean, that’s what I’ve been able to do, thank God. I’ve been able to get with the times, and you have to be able to adjust as a true artists. That keeps me fresh and able to hang if you wanna say that. I always love competition, so that’s what I look at when someone asks me to get down or be on a song. As an artist, you want to come up with your best work. Whether it’s Snoop with “Candy”, Pete Rock, or “Ma.a.d City” with Kendrick, I try to adapt to what an artist is feeling in me. Obviously, there’s a reason they contacted me. When someone shows me that respect, it’s nothing for me to give my best. That’s out of respect for the artists I work with. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: So I did the pre-buy. That gave me a few tracks. It still drops tomorrow, right?

MC Eiht: It officially drops tomorrow. No delays. A lot of people talk about Jay being out tomorrow. Everybody has their own lane. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: But speaking to that, dope is dope. It doesn’t matter who you drop with. If people are going to buy, they’re going to buy. 

MC Eiht: That’s the way I look at it. We didn’t sleep on anything, and don’t bite out tongue for anybody. We have just as good a product, whether it be Jay-Z, T.I., Snoop, or whoever. Everybody has their own lane, and I advise you to pick and choose. That’s what preference is for. If it’s good and stand up just as strong, then why not…

U.G. Digital Magazine: What else is in the can?

MC Eiht: I’m working on “Which Way iz West II”, I’m back in the studio to work on some Compton’s Most Wanted stuff with Chill, and hopefully from there I’ll get out on tour, meet some of the people like back in the day. I like to get out to the fans, meet and greet, and see the people. Rap is so computerized, but you need to connect with the people. I want to show people my appreciation. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: So many appreciate you for that. You have to get out there, communicate, and open up to the buyers. That’s dope. 

MC Eiht: Exactly. If you can’t do that, you lose. I thank the people for giving this project a listen. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I’m looking forward man. I love the people you have on here. It’s great to feature you, and look back at your history and influence. I follow music so much, and this is my life, so I appreciate your contributions. 

MC Eiht: When you been here as long as I have, you know to stay humble, and stay on the right track with music, and not going out of your lane. I’m just trying to give the people what they want. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Website, social media?

MC Eiht: They can hit me at @eiht0eiht on Instagram and Twitter, and @eihtcompton on Facebook.

Article by: James Johnson

Twitter: @iamjamesgrant

Instagram: @iamjamesgrant

Web: www.authenticallyjames.com

Jay-Z Launches New Tour Supporting “4:44”...

Jay-Z’s latest release, 4:44, has been out just over a week, and already he’s launching a full tour in support of the album. Due to touch ground October 27, the tour will begin in Anaheim, California, and travel all around the U.S. with dates in Colorado, Washington D.C,, New York of course, and even Canada.

4:44 was first announced mid-June, and was quickly released June 30. In just one week, despite millions of illegal downloads, the album sold more than 1 million copies. Jay-Z has received wide-spread praise for the album, as well as a high amount of criticism for various points of the album, including production and lyrical jabs he took at multiple people throughout the album.

Nevertheless, Jay-Z appears unbothered by any of the negative Press, and has continued to promote the effort, which continues to do well with buyers and fans alike.

Tidal members have the luxury of buying tickets beginning today at www.tidal.com, while all others can get their hands on tickets beginning Friday, July 14, 2017 via www.livenation.com

See the current dates below for the 4:44 Tour:

Oct. 27 – Anaheim, Calif. – Honda Center

Oct. 28 – Las Vegas, Nev. – T-Mobile Arena

Nov. 1 – Fresno, Calif. – Save Mart Center at Fresno State

Nov. 3 – Phoenix, Ariz. – Talking Stick Resort Arena

Nov. 5 – Denver, Colo. – Pepsi Center Arena

Nov. 7 – Dallas, Texas – American Airlines Center

Nov. 8 – Houston, Texas – Toyota Center

Nov. 9 – New Orleans, La. – Smoothie King Center

Nov. 11 – Orlando, Fla. – Amway Center

Nov. 12 – Miami, Fla. – American Airlines Arena

Nov. 14 – Atlanta, Ga. – Philips Arena

Nov. 15 – Nashville, Tenn. – Bridgestone Arena

Nov. 16 – Charlotte, N.C. – Spectrum Center

Nov. 18 – Detroit, Mich. – Little Caesars Arena

Nov. 19 – Cleveland, Ohio – Quicken Loans Arena

Nov. 21 – Montreal, Quebec – Bell Centre

Nov. 22 – Toronto, Ontario – Air Canada Centre

Nov. 25 – Boston, Mass. – TD Garden

Nov. 26 – Brooklyn, N.Y. – Barclays Center

Nov. 29 – Washington, D.C. – Verizon Center

Dec. 2 – Uniondale, N.Y. – Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Dec. 5 – Chicago, Ill. – United Center

Dec. 6 – Lincoln, Nebr. – Pinnacle Bank Arena

Dec. 9 – Edmonton, Alberta – Rogers Place

Dec. 11 – Vancouver, British Columbia – Pepsi Live at Rogers Arena

Dec. 13 – Seattle, Wash. – KeyArena

Dec. 14 – Portland, Ore. – Moda Center

Dec.16 – Oakland, Calif. – Oracle Arena

Dec. 17 – Sacramento, Calif. – Golden 1 Center

Dec. 19 – San Diego, Calif. – Viejas Arena

Dec. 21 – Los Angeles, Calif. – The Forum

WATCH THE NEW TRAILER FOR “THE CROSS OUT 3”, DUE OUT LATER THIS MONTH....

We’re thrilled to offer you a moment to view the trailer for “The Cross Out 3”. The film, which is the third in a trilogy series, is due out later this month. 

From Swish Gang Films, executive producers Swish Pzy, Calico Jonez and director Apar alongside Curtis Snow, director of “Snow in the Bluff” and assistant are releasing the third installment of the “Cross Out” trilogy which consists of “The Cross Out” and “The Cross Out 2”.

“The Cross Out” film series depicts the lives of several individuals who reside in Austin Homes Projects located in what Knoxville, TN refers to as “the gun zone” an area is known for shootings and violence. This is the backdrop for the team as they commence to take over the city through their ruthless dealings and set forth on a mission to get paid causing chaos along the way.

“The Cross Over Part 3” is a continuation of the story line taking place in Atlanta and features cast members Swish PZY, Calico Jonez, Curtis Snow, Swish Frosty and many more. View “The Cross Out Part 3” trailer below, and also at https://youtu.be/cJauzdOgNTI and be sure to follow director Swish Pzy on social media @SwishPzy (Instagram /Twitter / Facebook).

WATCH "FACE OF CAESAR", AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT TRANSFORMATIONS FOR "WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES" | #WARFORTHEPLANET

In preparation for the release of ‘War For the Planet of the Apes” on July 14, we’ve got an exclusive look at a new promo titled ‘Face of Caesar”, which gives an in-depth look at how star Andy Serkis was transformed into Caesar. We’ve seen the technology involved in this process over the year, and now you get to see up close how the process has evolved. 

War for the Planet of the Apes stars Andy Serkis, Woddy Harrelson, Amiah Miller, Karin Konoval, Judy Greer, and Terry Notary. 

In War for the Planet of the Apes, the third chapter of the critically acclaimed blockbuster franchise, Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the Colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both their species and the future of the planet.

Check out "Face of Caesar" by clicking HERE, or back watching below!

In War for the Planet of the Apes, the third chapter of the critically acclaimed blockbuster franchise, Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind.

For more information and updates on the film, visit the official website at www.warfortheplanet.com. Also, visit and follow the social media accounts below:

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ApesMovies 

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ApesMovies 

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ApesMovies/

#warfortheplanet

[AUDIO] @TheRealTank : WHEN WE

We recently had the opportunity to hear Tank speak about his new album, Savage, at the 2017 Essence Festival. He definitely kept the jokes coming during his talk, but all in all, the album is going to be nothing short of amazing.

Take a moment and check out the new single, "When We", below! And by all means, comment back about how you like it. You never know....he may be checking in to see your thoughts!!!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, & Facebook to see more photos from 2017 Essence Fest!

Instagram: @ugdigital

Twitter: @UGDigitalMag

Facebook: @UGDigitalMag

Tank - When We Download/Stream - https://Atlantic.lnk.to/WhenWe Follow Tank http://www.TheRealTank.com http://www.Twitter.com/TheRealTank http://www.Facebook.com/TheRealTank http://www.Instagram.com/TheRealTank

2017 @EssenceFest A SUCCESS....

Article by: James Johnson

July 4, 2017 - New Orleans, LA - - If you don’t do anything else in your summer months, you want to try and make it out to Essence Fest. It’s an extravagant time when celebrities come together to celebrate not only African American culture, but also the history of Essence Magazine. The event first began in 1995 as a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the magazine.

We were blessed to attend and provide media coverage at the 2017 Essence Festival, and at the very least, the event was absolutely amazing. It all began with an opening from none other than the beautiful Halle Berry, and things skyrocketed from there. There were celebrities, and celebrities, and more celebrities, and millions of fans who filled the Ernest N. Moriam Convention Center to celebrate all that is Essence.

Beginning Friday, June 30, each day was filled with a barrage of events, celebrity panels, press conferences, and more. There was more than enough to keep everyone from every age group satisfied. Sponsors included Coca Cola, and Walmart, who in addition to having an elaborate soundstage set up, also had cash registers and employees set up to sell a variety of items, including albums and more from many of the artists featured throughout the entire weekend. Buying those albums gave you an opportunity to meet and greet with many of your favorite artists throughout the event.

All events during the daylight hours were free for all.  The night time events, naturally, were another story, as they included full concerts from many of the celebrities in attendance over the weekend, including Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, Diana Ross, John Legend, and so many others. We have many pictures to show that can be viewed here at UGDigital.com and below. You can also check out some of the press conferences, which included the cast of Girls Trip with Queen Latifah & Jada Pickett Smith, Queen Sugar with Ava Duvernay, Spike Lee’s Netflix reboot of “She’s Gotta Have It”, and more.

If you missed it all this year, it’s ok. Now’s a great time to start getting things in order for next year’s event.

King of Paper Chasin' Origins Part 1 Set to Debut June 12...

 (New York, NY - June 1st, 2017) - Triplebeam Worldwide proudly releases the trailer to the anticipated short-film, "

King Of Paper Chasin' Origins Part 1

".  "KOPC Origins Part 1" will debut on Monday, June 12th, 2017, with a star-studded red carpet event taking place at S.O.B.'s located at 204 Varick Street NY NY 10014starting at 7:00pm.  The evening will be hosted by media personality Angela Yee.

"KOPC ORIGINS", is executive produced by DL Clark and directed by DL along with famed video director Joe Puma (Trey Songz, Fabolous, Dave East). "I don’t expect everyone to be happy with what I'm doing" says DL, "…but its a story I want to tell. There is a lot of embellishment for entertainment purposes, but for the most part the premise of the movie is based off actual events," he mentions.

In the coming weeks, Triplebeam Worldwide will be releasing the "KOPC ORIGINS EP" featuring songs from the film by hip-hop recording artist DL and many others. Formal invitation to follow.

"Every Saint Has A Past.  Every Sinner Has A Future".

"KOPC ORIGINS PART 1" Trailer:

"KOPC ORIGINS" stars: DL Clark, Jason Lanzar Rivera, Valerie Lora, Tahiry Jose', Orrin Hunter, Piarry Oriol, Natalie Friedman, Aurea

R&B Songstress Chanté Moore [ @iamchantemoore ] Releases Her Video for New Single "Real Ones"...

It's been a while since R&B has been blessed with the real, but all that's in the past, now that Chanté Moore has dropper her new single, and accompanying video, Real Ones. 

The mid-tempo love anthem is the lead single from Chante' Moore's forthcoming 7th studio album, "The Rise Of The Phoenix", available digitally and at all retail stores on September 15, 2017. 

"I done messed around and found a real one!"... Saluting the magic of real love is what this song is all about.  Songwriter/producer/actress/singer extraordinaire Chante' Moore was born to sing! In fact her name in French literally means "to sing." With 6 albums under her belt, more than 20 charting singles and collaborations with musical royalty such as Prince, The Isley Brothers, R. Kelly and Babyface, Moore is a proven force to be reckoned with.

CHANTE' MOORE is currently on a national promotional tour in support of the single and upcoming album; cities include: Cincinnati, Birmingham, Atlanta, Orlando, Miami, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Oakland, Los Angeles, New York and New Orleans, just to name a few. 

Fans can also catch Chante' Moore during the 2017 Essence Music Festival as Chante' will be participating in this year's festivities.

Click below to watch Chanté's new video, Real Ones...

@Blumbros: The Evolution of Philly

So much has changed in hip-hop, but when you look at areas like Philly, the evolution has gotten even bigger. Hip-hop newcomers Blumbros have best onto the scene to wild popularity, and their riding a train that shows no sign of slowing down. While easily compared to groups like Rae Sremmurd, this Philly duo have certainly developed their own style and following. We recently caught up with the fellas to talk about their latest single, Everybody”, and their plans for maneuvering through this industry.

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s awesome to connect with you brothers for this feature. First and foremost, we’re grateful to you. I think what you have is awesome for hip-hop. I appreciate what you bring. So much has changed in hip-hop, and no one is having the kind of fun you’re having. You’re bringing that feel back to music. Is that something you’re starting to hear from people?

Blumbros: We’re hearing that a lot. We also get compared a lot to Rae Sremmurd. Other than that, people are amazed at our vibe.

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s good and you really have something. You work well together, and that goes a long way when you’re dealing with so many people. Who were your influences, coming from Philly and there being so many people from there in music?

Blumbros: I say Quavo and Kendrick Lamar inspired me to do music.

U.G. Digital Mag: And that’s how. People see that, but they also see you have your own style.

Blumbros: For me, it’s Meek Mill and PNB Rock. I saw them go from nothing.

U.G. Digital Mag: How did you guys really want to be seen as artists coming into this?

Blumbros: We really wanted to let people know how different we were. We wanted them to see we bring a different vibe. We’re more positive than a lot of things you see.

U.G. Digital Mag: So talk more about the overall scene of Philly. Like, I’ve been into hp-hop for years, and when you think of the people who have come out in the last 10-15 years, nobody has come the way you are. Artists have been more like they have to have that “hard” or tough persona to come out and be respected, and they’re not really high spirited and having fun, especially in Philly. Some artists enjoy ti a lot more than they let on, and they feel like they have to cover up that fun side of it to be respected. You guys aren’t afraid to be who you are. With that in mind, do you see the respect from Philly?

Blumbros: They support us. It’s like 50/50.

U.G. Digital Mag: That’s good. Any support is good, but no one can dispute how different you guys are from everything else in the city.

Blumbros: People used to that battle rap and all that (laughing).

U.G. Digital Mag: I do think it’s dope. I love what you guys have, and it takes me into the single, Everybody. What separates you guys, because what I got from the song is “this is us and this is what we’re offering, we’re doing this and everybody else is doing that”.

Blumbros: What separates us aside from the music is our shows as well. We do choreographed dance and everything. We want people to look at us positively. We make our shows fun to come to.

U.G. Digital Mag: You’re proving that music can be something really big. You hear a lot of negative, and not just with hip-hop. It’s in all music. I think back to being 17, knowing I wanted to work in this, and the thing my mother always warned about was drugs and how a lot of people get turned around on that sort of thing. It’s not just hip-hop. It’s just a lifestyle that has come with entertainment period. You guys have consciously made an effort to separate from that.

Blumbros: We try to be positive. We come from Blumberg projects. People have a different perspective on us, but we try to prove them otherwise. Just because we from the hood don’t mean we got to be ghetto. It’s still positive people out here.

U.G. Digital Mag: Things are really growing for you guys. You’ve had other songs, and I’m actually hooked on “Wanna Be Grown”. I think it’s really hot. What do you see over the next year with your brand?

Blumbros: I think we’ll be doing more touring for sure. We have a mixtape dropping July 22. We’ll have a release party for it when the time comes.

U.G. Digital Mag: That’s awesome. We’d love to see you guys here. Everyone is into what you’re doing.

Blumbros: We appreciate that.

U.G. Digital Mag: Where should everyone be checking you guys out at?

Blumbros: All of our social media is @blumbros, and we’re also on Soundcloud and Youtube.

U.G. Digital Mag: Any final thoughts at all?

Blumbros: Our mixtape is “Something’s Gotta Give”. We feel like we’re kicking our way into the industry. Being broke, and needing help sometimes, it’s like something’s gotta give.

U.G. Digital Mag: People can relate to it, so it’s cool. Young people especially can relate to that. We’re looking forward to it.

@_leovance_ : A UGD Exclusive

It's always such an amazing thing to catch up to budding artists and emerging talent. After all, that's where much of our focus lies when it comes to music and entertainment. We love the idea of introducing new artists to you, and that rings especially true with Leo Vance. Based in Canada, Leo is blazing a strong trail through the industry, and he shows no sign of slowing any time soon. He was recently a part of the Cut Hip Hop Awards in Toronto. Check out our exclusive with below with the man himself.

U.G. Digital Magazine: What feeling do you having been a part of the Cut Awards show?

Leo Vance: I felt amazing about jt. It was a good opportunity to showcase my music and meet the different artists. I think it was just a really good opportunity.

U.G. Digital Magazine: It's huge to be part of something on that level.  So many people were involved, including companies like Def Jam. Talk about your background. I know music has been in the fiber of your family.

Leo Vance: Well, I'll start with my mother. She was a singer. Growing up, I have memories of being in the studio while she was recording. She had a live band as well, I believe. That was a good experience for me. She moved onto the beauty industry after music. My dad has been a producer, rapper, and engineer. I'd be there while he produced and engineered for other artists.

U.G. Digital Magazine: Looking at their accomplishments, how did that inspire your dreams?

Leo Vance: My dreams were a little different. I really wanted to be a basketball player, but it turned out I wasn't happy with it. From there I picked up a keyboard. It made me happy to rap over instrumentals but I wanted to make my own as opposed to rapping over everyone else's.

U.G. Digital Magazine: It's good to see your progression. You've turned this into something really huge, which is remarkable. Talk about everything else you have going on?

Leo Vance: I'll be recording the last song of my album and hope to push that out in the summer. It's really just my album that I'm focused on.

U.G. Digital Magazine: That's great. How much have you put into it? What's to be expected?

Leo Vance: It's a collection of my best songs over the last two years. I've been honing my craft and my album will reflect that.

U.G. Digital Magazine: So we can look for that later this summer. Anything else we should know about?

Leo Vance: I have a mixtape that will come out.

U.G. Digital Magazine: We definitely will stream that for you.

Leo Vance: Yea, for sure. That'll drop late August or early September.

U.G. Digital Magazine: Shout your website and social media for the readers?

Leo Vance: Facebook, twitter, Instagram, and YouTube are all as follows:

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007104182108&_rdr

Twitter: @_leovance_

Instagram: @_leovance_

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc2Hj6DXE9AoGJwm_IshxVw

U.G. Digital Magazine: I appreciate your time bro. This is really great. Good luck with everything and we'll be following for sure.

BONE THUGS RELEASE NEW VIDEO, "COMING HOME", FEAT. STEPHEN MARLEY...

Most know by now that Krayzie Bone and Bizzy Bone of the legendary hip-hop quintet Bone Thugs-n-Harmony have joined together as a duo, going simply by Bone Thugs. They dropped the lead single, "Coming Home", to their duet album, "New Waves" over a month ago, and now have released a visual to accompany. Check the video out below to the tune that also features Stephen Marley!

@maryjblige, @ludacris, and @_maxwell_ the Latest to Join @VH1's Second Annual Mother's Day Special "Dear Mama: An Event to Honor Moms"....

It was recently announced that Mary J. Blige, Ludacris, and Maxwell were the latest artists to be added to VH1's list of stars to honor their mothers in “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” whichpremieres on Monday, May 8th at 10 PM ET/PT.  Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominee Anthony Anderson will return as host along with VH1 fan favorite, actress, and New York Times best-selling author La La Anthony.  “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” honors mothers with celebrity guests paying tribute to the women who have shaped their success.  

Yesterday, VH1 will also premiered a new documentary from Blige titled STRENGTH OF A WOMAN: AN ALBUM DOCUMENTARY.  The film gave fans a close and intimate look at the making of the just released album, with studio footage and exclusive interviews with Blige, as well as the inspiration behind the writing and direction.

Mary J. Blige is an iconic singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist.  She has sold over 50 million albums and 25 million singles worldwide, garnered nine GRAMMY® Awards (plus a staggering 32 nominations), a Gold Globe nomination and five American Music Awards.  She holds the distinction of being the only artist to have won GRAMMYs® in the R&B, hip-hop, pop, and gospel categories. She is amongst a handful of entertainers to release eight or more multiplatinum albums, with Billboard naming her “the most successful female R&B artist of the past 25 years”.

The career of the multitalented CHRIS “LUDACRIS” BRIDGES can best be described as remarkable. As a recording artist, he has sold more than 15 million albums domestically, thanks to the blockbuster success of such singles as “Stand Up,” “Get Back,” “Southern Hospitality,” “Number One Spot,” “Money Maker” and “My Chick Bad.” All of these records were accompanied by ingenious videos that demonstrated Bridges’ far-reaching imagination, and his willingness to stretch the boundaries of what rap videos should look and feel like.

Most recently, Bridges starred in the highly anticipated The Fate of the Furious, which broke records at the box office, becoming the highest grossing film opening worldwide.

Bridge’s philanthropic efforts rival his entertainment accomplishments. He started The Ludacris Foundation in 2001 which focuses on helping the youth in his hometown of Atlanta. In addition, he has recently partnered with No Kid Hungry and Feeding America.

Currently, Bridges is in Los Angeles shooting MTV’s revived Fear Factor, which will premiere on May 30, 2017. He is both a host and executive producer on the show. This is the first project from the new overall deal between Bridges and MTV.

Maxwell has artfully managed to transfix music lovers for more than two decades, releasing four studio albums, all in his own time – all duly anointed as classics.  Maxwell has had a busy past 12 months. In July, he released his much-anticipated ‘blackSUMMERS’night,’ the second installment of his musical trilogy encompassing his 20+ year career. The album garnered praise from Rolling Stone, SPIN, Complex, NPR and more, and the album earned him his third-Grammy (Best R&B Song for “Lake By The Ocean”), an NAACP Image Award (Outstanding Male Artist), and a Soul Train Award (Best R&B/Soul Male Artist).

Blige, Ludacris, & Kelly Rowland will appear alongside previously announced artists Robin Thicke, Maxwell and DJ Khaled.

“Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” will take place at the famed Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena, California.

Official sponsors of “Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” include America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses®, DOVE®  I Chocolate, Honey Bunches of Oats®, Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders, Tide PODS®, T.J.Maxx, and Unilever.

“Dear Mama: An Event To Honor Moms” is being produced by Flavor Unit and Jesse Collins Entertainment.  Shakim Compere, Queen Latifah, Jesse Collins, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay are Executive Producers.  For VH1, Amy Doyle, Ryan Kroft, and Elena Diaz are Executive Producers, Paige Miller is Coordinating Producer, and Joe Buoye is Executive in Charge of Production.

For more updates go to DearMama.vh1.com and follow @VH1 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using #DearMamaVH1 to join the conversation.