Tag: Quincy Jones

  • VIBE Magazine Returns to Print

    Get ready to hold a piece of history in your hands! After more than a decade away from the newsstands, VIBE Magazine, the iconic publication founded by Quincy Jones, is officially making its return to print. This relaunch marks a significant moment for Black culture and media, promising a return to the in-depth storytelling that defined the magazine.

    A Legacy of Leading the Conversation

    Launched in 1992, VIBE was created by the legendary Quincy Jones to fill a void in mainstream media. At a time when Black culture was profoundly shaping music, fashion, film, and politics, VIBE emerged as a powerful voice, reflecting its sophistication and influence. It wasn’t just reporting on Black culture; it was leading the conversation.

    Inspired by the journalistic standards of Rolling Stone, VIBE became a launching pad for many young artists who would go on to define generations. Icons like Snoop Dogg, The Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, Tupac, Usher, and Lauryn Hill graced its pages, with the VIBE cover becoming a coveted symbol of artistic achievement. The magazine also made history in 2007 by featuring Barack Obama on its cover, recognizing his cultural significance long before many others.

    The Future of Print, Rooted in Legacy

    The final print issue in 2014 featured a double cover with Drake and Kevin Hart. Now, as part of its integration with Rolling Stone (since 2025), VIBE is set to reignite its print presence. The brand remains dedicated to delivering deeply reported stories across multiple platforms, but the return to print signifies a commitment to a more tangible, lasting form of media.

    The first new print edition is scheduled to drop on June 2. This limited-edition issue will be published quarterly, with a premium feel and a limited run of 1,000 copies for the inaugural release. It will be available exclusively at specialty newsstands and online via shop.rollingstone.com. The issue promises to feature a cover star, along with insightful commentary on Hip-Hop, fashion, and culture, including interviews with today’s leading tastemakers.

    More Than Just a Scroll

    In an era dominated by fast-paced, fleeting online content, VIBE’s return to print underscores a belief that artists and cultural influencers deserve more than just a momentary scroll. The magazine aims to provide a more immersive and lasting experience, celebrating the depth and impact of Black culture.

    This relaunch is not just about nostalgia; it’s about continuing a legacy and shaping the future of Black media. VIBE’s commitment to impactful storytelling ensures that its voice will continue to resonate for years to come.

    Are you excited about VIBE Magazine’s return to print? What are your favorite VIBE cover stories? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • ‘Michael’ Biopic LA Premiere: Stars Shine

    The anticipation for the Michael Jackson biopic, ‘Michael,’ has reached a fever pitch, and the stars certainly brought the heat to the film’s Los Angeles premiere. Held at the iconic Dolby Theatre, the black carpet was a dazzling display of style and homage, with the cast and the Jackson family coming together to celebrate the life and career of the King of Pop.

    Jaafar Jackson Steps into the Spotlight

    At the heart of the evening was Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who takes on the monumental task of portraying his legendary uncle. The 29-year-old actor looked sharp in a custom black ensemble, styled by Petar Boy, allowing the focus to remain on the film’s narrative. Visibly moved, Jaafar shared his experience with ExtraTV, calling it a “lifetime experience” and a “defining moment.”

    Despite extensive preparation, Jaafar admitted he still felt he hadn’t “nailed” his uncle’s signature dance moves. However, the joy of seeing the audience’s reaction and being part of such a significant project made the experience unforgettable. His performance is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated aspects of the film.

    Family and Co-Stars Dazzle

    The Jackson family was out in full force, showing their support. La Toya Jackson, Michael’s aunt, exuded classic Hollywood glamour in a flowing black satin gown, opera gloves, and a striking red lip. She shared with Variety that the family was excited about director Antoine Fuqua’s vision and emphasized the importance of staying true to Michael’s life. La Toya even confessed that at times, Jaafar’s performance was so convincing, she and other family members forgot they weren’t watching “Mike” himself.

    Nia Long, playing the iconic matriarch Katherine Jackson, radiated elegance in a shimmering Pamella Roland gown. Long spoke about portraying Katherine with “grace, and patience and love and groundedness,” highlighting the power of quiet strength. She found that embodying the character through hair and makeup helped bring Katherine to life and expressed immediate enthusiasm for a potential sequel.

    A Night of Style and Homage

    Colman Domingo, portraying patriarch Joe Jackson, cut a sharp figure in a custom black Maison Valentino tuxedo. Kendrick Sampson, who plays legendary producer Quincy Jones, embraced a retro vibe with a coral blue suit featuring flared pants. Rapper Wale paid direct homage to the King of Pop with a Michael-inspired ensemble, complete with iconic elements from Jackson’s wardrobe, even hitting some of his famous dance moves on the carpet.

    The entire red carpet was a testament to Michael Jackson’s enduring influence, with attendees sporting bedazzled jackets and classic red leather accents. As the excitement built, fans eagerly awaited the film’s worldwide release on April 24, anticipating a cinematic experience that honors the music, the moves, and the complex life of a global icon.

    Are you excited to see the ‘Michael’ biopic? What are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • ‘Michael’ Biopic Premiere: Stars Shine on Black Carpet

    The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles was aglow on April 20th as the stars of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” stepped onto the black carpet. Ahead of the film’s official release on April 24th, the cast and family celebrated the life and legacy of the King of Pop with a night of glamour, style, and heartfelt tributes.

    Jaafar Jackson Steps into the Spotlight

    At the heart of the evening was Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who takes on the monumental task of portraying his legendary uncle. Dressed in a sleek, understated custom black look styled by Petar Boy, Jaafar let the film’s narrative shine. He shared with ExtraTV his profound feelings about embodying Michael on screen, calling it a “lifetime experience” and a “defining moment.” Despite extensive preparation, he admitted to still feeling he hadn’t “nailed” Jackson’s iconic dance moves, but the joy of the audience’s reaction and being part of such a project was unforgettable.

    Family Ties and Star Power on the Carpet

    The Jackson family was out in full force. Aunt La Toya Jackson embraced a classic theme in a flowing black satin gown, complete with opera gloves, a dazzling diamond necklace, and a bold red lip. She told Variety that the family was initially excited about director Antoine Fuqua’s vision and emphasized the importance of staying true to Michael’s life. La Toya even gushed about Jaafar’s performance, noting that at times, she and other family members felt they were watching “Mike” himself.

    Nia Long added her own star power, shimmering in a Pamella Roland gown and a striking red lip. Portraying matriarch Katherine Jackson, Long praised the icon’s quiet strength and grace. She aimed to embody Katherine with “grace, and patience and love and groundedness,” emphasizing the power of deliberate quietude. Long expressed enthusiasm for a potential sequel, stating, “Of course I want to do it, like why not!”

    A Stylish Homage to the King of Pop

    Colman Domingo, embodying patriarch Joe Jackson, made a sharp statement in a custom black Maison Valentino tuxedo. Kendrick Sampson, who plays producer Quincy Jones, channeled retro glamour with a coral blue suit featuring flared pants, nodding to the late ’60s and ’70s. Rapper Wale paid direct homage to Michael Jackson with a custom ensemble, complete with iconic wardrobe elements and even hitting some of MJ’s signature moves on the carpet, much to the delight of the press.

    The red carpet itself became a sea of homage, with other attendees sporting bedazzled jackets and classic red leather accents, all celebrating the King of Pop. As anticipation builds for the film’s worldwide release on April 24th, the premiere night served as a stylish and heartfelt prelude to what promises to be a captivating look into Michael Jackson’s extraordinary life.

    What are your thoughts on the fashion from the ‘Michael’ biopic premiere? Who do you think had the best look? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • ‘Michael’ Premiere: Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long Shine

    The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles was aglow on April 20th as the stars of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” graced the black carpet for its premiere. The event was a dazzling affair, filled with heartfelt tributes and stylish ensembles, all celebrating the life and legacy of the King of Pop ahead of the film’s release on April 24, 2026.

    Jaafar Jackson Steps into His Uncle’s Shoes

    Central to the evening was Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who takes on the monumental role of portraying his legendary uncle. Dressed in a sleek custom black look styled by Petar Boy, Jaafar, 29, allowed the film’s narrative to shine. He shared with ExtraTV that embodying Michael was a “lifetime experience” and a “defining moment,” admitting that despite extensive preparation, he still felt the immense pressure of capturing Jackson’s iconic moves. However, the joy of seeing the audience’s reaction and being part of this project was unforgettable.

    Jaafar wasn’t the only Jackson family member making a statement. His aunt, La Toya Jackson, embraced a classic Hollywood aesthetic with a flowing black satin gown, opera gloves, and dazzling diamond jewelry. She expressed the family’s initial excitement about director Antoine Fuqua’s vision, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. La Toya even shared that at times, she and other family members were so moved by Jaafar’s portrayal that they momentarily forgot they were watching Michael himself.

    A Stellar Cast and Family Support

    Nia Long, who portrays matriarch Katherine Jackson, radiated in a shimmering Pamella Roland gown. Long spoke about embodying Katherine’s quiet strength and grace, aiming to portray her with “grace, and patience and love and groundedness.” She noted how hair and makeup helped her fully step into the character and expressed enthusiasm for a potential sequel. Colman Domingo, embodying family patriarch Joe Jackson, cut a striking figure in a custom black Maison Valentino tuxedo, exuding sharp elegance.

    Kendrick Sampson, playing legendary producer Quincy Jones, brought a retro flair with a coral blue suit featuring flared pants, channeling late 60s and 70s glamour. Rapper Wale also paid homage to the King of Pop with a Michael-inspired ensemble, complete with iconic wardrobe elements and even mimicking some of Jackson’s signature dance moves on the carpet.

    • Jaafar Jackson portrays Michael Jackson.
    • Nia Long plays matriarch Katherine Jackson.
    • Colman Domingo embodies Joe Jackson.
    • Kendrick Sampson stars as Quincy Jones.
    • La Toya Jackson expressed family pride in the project.

    Anticipation Builds for Worldwide Release

    The premiere night was filled with palpable excitement, as attendees and fans alike eagerly awaited the film’s worldwide release on April 24, 2026. The “Michael” biopic promises a deep dive into the life of the King of Pop, blending family insights, compelling performances, and stylish tributes. It’s poised to be a must-see event for Michael Jackson enthusiasts and film lovers.

    Will you be watching the ‘Michael’ biopic when it hits theaters? What are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Pisces Season: Our Favorite Black Celebrity Stars

    Get ready, because Pisces season is officially here! From February 18th to March 20th, the sun graces this dreamy, creative, and deeply empathetic water sign. Pisces individuals are known for their intuition, compassion, and artistic flair, often living with a rich inner world. If you’re looking for inspiration, look no further than these incredibly talented Black celebrities who share the Pisces sun!

    Understanding the Pisces Spirit

    Ruled by Neptune, the planet of dreams and intuition, Pisces is the final sign of the zodiac. This placement often imbues them with a profound understanding of life’s cycles and a natural inclination towards empathy. They are known for being gracious, emotionally aware, and incredibly sympathetic, often going the extra mile to ensure the happiness of others.

    Pisces are the artists, the dreamers, and the humanitarians of the zodiac. Their strengths lie in their compassion, intuition, wisdom, and often, remarkable musical abilities. While they enjoy their solitude and moments of deep connection with spirit, they are also adaptable and friendly, easily connecting with a diverse range of people. Their selfless nature means they’re always ready to lend a helping hand.

    A Stellar Lineup of Pisces Stars

    It’s no surprise that many of the most creative and influential Black figures were born under this imaginative sign. From music legends to groundbreaking filmmakers and iconic athletes, the Pisces energy shines brightly. Let’s dive into a gallery of some of our favorite Pisces celebrities:

    • **Smokey Robinson** (Feb. 19) – Legendary singer, songwriter, and producer.
    • **Seal** (Feb. 19) – Acclaimed singer and songwriter.
    • **Rihanna** (Feb. 20) – Global music icon, fashion mogul, and businesswoman.
    • **Sidney Poitier** (Feb. 20) – Revered actor, director, and diplomat.
    • **Charles Barkley** (Feb. 20) – Basketball Hall of Famer and beloved TV analyst.
    • **Nina Simone** (Feb. 21) – Iconic singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist.
    • **Aunjanue Ellis** (Feb. 21) – Talented actress and producer.
    • **John Lewis** (Feb. 21) – Late Congressman, politician, and civil rights leader.
    • **Jordan Peele** (Feb. 21) – Master filmmaker, comedian, and actor.
    • **Rashida Jones** (Feb. 25) – Versatile actress, director, writer, and producer.
    • **Erykah Badu** (Feb. 26) – Queen of Neo-Soul, singer, songwriter, and producer.
    • **Chilli** (Feb. 27) – Singer, dancer, actress, and TV personality from TLC.
    • **Tasha Smith** (Feb. 28) – Accomplished actress, director, and producer.
    • **Daniel Kaluuya** (Feb. 24) – Critically acclaimed actor and writer.
    • **Harry Belafonte** (Mar. 1) – Legendary singer, songwriter, actor, and activist.
    • **Lupita Nyong’o** (Mar. 1) – Oscar-winning actress.
    • **Don Lemon** (Mar. 1) – Prominent television journalist.
    • **Jayson Tatum** (Mar. 3) – NBA superstar.
    • **Draymond Green** (Mar. 4) – NBA champion and analyst.
    • **Shaquille O’Neal** (Mar. 6) – Basketball legend, analyst, and businessman.
    • **Tyler, The Creator** (Mar. 6) – Innovative rapper and record producer.
    • **Wanda Sykes** (Mar. 7) – Hilarious actress, comedian, and writer.
    • **Boris Kodjoe** (Mar. 8) – Actor, producer, and former model.
    • **Kendrick Sampson** (Mar. 8) – Actor and activist.
    • **Shad “Bow Wow” Moss** (Mar. 9) – Rapper and actor.
    • **Jasmine Guy** (Mar. 10) – Actress, director, singer, and dancer.
    • **Common** (Mar. 13) – Grammy-winning rapper and actor.
    • **Quincy Jones** (Mar. 14) – Music industry titan: producer, musician, composer.
    • **Simone Biles** (Mar. 14) – The greatest gymnast of all time.
    • **Stephen Curry** (Mar. 14) – NBA icon and sharpshooter.
    • **will.i.am** (Mar. 15) – Rapper, producer, and tech innovator.
    • **Blake Griffin** (Mar. 16) – NBA player.
    • **Joel Embiid** (Mar. 16) – NBA MVP.
    • **Jhené Aiko** (Mar. 16) – Soulful singer and songwriter.
    • **Tamar Braxton** (Mar. 17) – Singer and television personality.
    • **Queen Latifah** (Mar. 18) – Hip-hop pioneer, actress, and singer.
    • **Vanessa Williams** (Mar. 18) – Iconic singer, actress, and fashion designer.
    • **Spike Lee** (Mar. 20) – Visionary film director, producer, and screenwriter.
    • **Sloane Stephens** (Mar. 20) – Professional tennis player.

    These Pisces celebrities, and so many others, embody the sign’s blend of creativity, empathy, and passion. They nurture their gifts, inspire us with their talents, and often use their platforms to make a positive impact. Whether they’re gracing the stage, screen, or sports arena, their Pisces energy is undeniable.

    Who are your favorite Pisces celebrities? Did we miss anyone on our list? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Drake Acquires Rare Signed Michael Jackson Album

    It’s no secret that Drake has a passion for collecting music memorabilia, and his latest acquisition is a true gem. The rapper has reportedly purchased an incredibly rare Michael Jackson album, adding another significant piece to his already vast collection. This isn’t just any album; it’s signed by both Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones and even features a unique hand-drawn sketch by the King of Pop himself.

    A Coveted Piece of Music History

    According to collector Alexander Bitar, this particular album is considered the rarest Michael Jackson album in existence. Its provenance traces back to Jackson’s assistant tour manager, Nelson Hayes, adding to its historical significance. This acquisition is particularly noteworthy as Drake and Michael Jackson are currently tied for the most No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 by a male solo artist, with 13 each.

    With Drake gearing up for the release of his ninth studio album, ‘ICEMAN,’ and potentially surpassing Jackson’s record, this memorabilia piece feels especially fitting. His recent singles, “Which One” featuring Central Cee and “What Did I Miss?,” have already given fans a glimpse into his new project, with the latter even touching on his ongoing feud with Kendrick Lamar.

    Drake’s Growing Memorabilia Collection

    This isn’t the first time Drake has made headlines for his impressive memorabilia purchases. Just recently, he showcased 2Pac’s Death Row Records chain from the ‘All Eyez On Me’ cover, which he apparently acquired ahead of his European tour dates. His collection spans across iconic figures in music history, solidifying his status as a major collector.

    Drake’s passion for music history extends beyond collecting; he’s also deeply involved in current music industry battles. His lawsuit against Universal Music Group, alleging defamation and manipulation of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track success, is ongoing. A recent court ruling granted him permission to view Kendrick’s contract, indicating his determination to pursue the case.

    • Drake has acquired a rare, signed Michael Jackson album.
    • The album features a hand-drawn sketch by Michael Jackson.
    • It’s signed by both Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones.
    • Drake and Michael Jackson are tied for the most No. 1s on the Billboard Hot 100 by a male solo artist.

    What do you think of Drake’s latest memorabilia acquisition? Let us know in the comments below!