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Eric Benét and I might be cousins. In any case, there’s a possibility our ancestors once walked on the same plantation — at least, that’s what the star, full name Eric Benét Jordan, half-jokingly tells me when we meet in the lounge of a New York hotel in late April. “It’s dope, right?” he says after pointing out our shared last name. “We probably are, we probably are.”

At 58 years old, Benét has both wisdom and jokes in his nature. TikTokers can catch one of the many skits...

On Friday March 14 2025, ABC broadcasts Tamron Hall!

Does the Good Mother Myth Still Exist? Season 6 Episode 118 Episode Summary

Tamron Hall is set to explore a thought-provoking topic in the upcoming episode titled “Does the Good Mother Myth Still Exist?” This episode promises to dive deep into the complexities of motherhood and societal expectations. The discussion will feature insights from Nancy Reddy, author of “The Good Mother Myth,” who will share her perspective on how these ideals have shaped the experiences of mothers today.

Joining the conversation are several notable guests, including Melanie Fiona, Felicia La Tour, Ashley Chea, and Codie Elaine Oliver, who are all connected through the podcast “The Mama’s Den.” Each guest brings their unique experiences and viewpoints on motherhood, which will enrich the discussion. Their diverse backgrounds will help to highlight the challenges and realities that many mothers face in today’s world.

The episode aims...

“The Good Mother Myth” – those three little words carry so much weight, so much pressure, and so much unspoken frustration for mothers everywhere. This Friday, Tamron Hall takes on the myth, challenging societal expectations and offering a much-needed dose of reality and support for moms navigating the complexities of parenthood. Nancy Reddy, author of […]

Tamron Hall: Nancy Reddy, Melanie Fiona...

Last year, Durand Bernarr was hitting a new career peak — and a case of burnout. The Cleveland-born R&b artist had won a wide new audience in the spring with his En Route EP, which would go on to nab a 2025 Grammy nomination. But now he had just a month to crank out a new project. In need of new ideas and perspectives, he pivoted from his usual way of making music. “The difference between this project and the last one was there were way more hands and brains involved in the creative process,...

Elaine Welteroth, former co-host of The Talk and editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue, held a VIP brunch in Los Angeles Thursday afternoon in honor of her non-profit birthFUND. The organization, which upholds midwifery as a single solution to the maternal health crisis in America, officially launched last month with the support of A-list founding funders including Serena Williams, Abby Phillip, Kelly Rowland, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend.

The event took place at the private residence of interior designer Brigette Romanek who, along with Rowland, made up the host committee for the brunch. Celebrities in attendance included Tina Knowles, Kris Jenner, Khloé Kardashian, Lauren London, Yvonne Orji, Holly Robinson Peete, Denise Vasi, Jeanie Mai, Angela Rye, Ryan Michele Bathe, Aisha Hinds, Allison Holker, and Melanie Fiona, who closed out the gathering with a performance.

“When I went through the life-saving experience of being cared for by Black midwives, I came through that experience not just alive,...

The Black Academy is honouring the best in Black Canadian talent.

On Friday, the organization announced that Andre De Grasse, Kayla Grey and Fabienne Colas will be honoured at the inaugural celebration of The Legacy Awards.

Read More: The Black Academy To Launch Awards Show Celebrating Black Canadian Talent

Co-founders Shamier Anderson and Stephan James shared the news, alongside Insight Productions and the CBC, also announcing that Randell Adjei, Fefe Dobson, Melanie Fiona, Shantel May and Alicia Mighty are all set to perform at the gala.

De Grasse, who is Canada’s most decorated male Olympian, winning six medals in sprint events, will be honoured with Athlete of the Year.

Tsn sportscaster Grey will receive the Jamil French Award, recognizing her status as one of Canada’s rising stars.

Colas, an actress, director and producer, will receive The Visionnaire Award, recognizing her tireless work lifting up and showcasing Black storytellers in Canada.

Exclusive: OWN’s Black Love is returning for one last go-round. The network has renewed the four-time NAACP-nominated docuseries for a sixth and final season. Season 6 will premiere Saturday, July 23 at 10 pm on OWN. You can watch the trailer for a sneak peek at the new season above and see key art below.

Black Love, created by husband-and-wife filmmakers Codie and Tommy Oliver, presents real, honest, emotional, and transparent love stories of Black love from some of the most successful people in business and entertainment, social media influencers, as well as everyday couples.

The series sparked elevated conversations and showcased some of America’s favorite Black couples for over five years. A strong ratings driver, Black Love was the #1 non-sports cable telecast in its time period among African-American women.

The series explores the many different journeys of married couples and their unique journeys to become one. The Olivers launched the...

Vulture Watch

What's next in Don Cornelius' journey? Has the American Soul TV show been cancelled or renewed for a third season on Bet? The television vulture is watching all the latest cancellation and renewal news, so this page is the place to track the status of American Soul, season three. Bookmark it, or subscribe for the latest updates. Remember, the television vulture is watching your shows. Are you?  

What's This TV Show About?

Airing on the Bet cable channel, American Soul stars Sinqua Walls, Kelly Price, Jason Dirden, Iantha Richardson, Katlyn Nichol, and Christopher Jefferson. Season two guests include Big Boi, Ledisi, Melanie Fiona, Demetria McKinney, London Brown, Darius McCrary, Tone Bell, Yung Joc, D.C. Young Fly, Christopher B. Duncan, Kearran Giovanni, Alex Ball, and Hudson Thames. The series blends fictional and real-life people, places, and events, as it charts the rise...

The Soul Train series had a long and successful run on television. The American Soul TV show follows the story of that series and its creator. Will the Bet drama stay on the air long enough to tell the whole tale? Will American Soul be cancelled or renewed for season three? Stay tuned.

A historical drama series, American Soul stars Sinqua Walls, Kelly Price, Jason Dirden, Iantha Richardson, Katlyn Nichol, and Christopher Jefferson. Season two guests include Big Boi, Ledisi, Melanie Fiona, Demetria McKinney, London Brown, Darius McCrary, Tone Bell, Yung Joc, D.C. Young Fly, Christopher B. Duncan, Kearran Giovanni, Alex Ball, and Hudson Thames. The series blends fictional and real-life people, places, and events, as it charts the rise of the cultural phenomenon of Soul Train. The story centers on creator and host Don Cornelius (Walls), and the Soul Train dancers, as they strive to make...

Is the second season of the American Soul TV show on Bet far out? As we all know, the Nielsen ratings typically play a big role in determining whether a TV show like American Soul is cancelled or renewed for season three. Unfortunately, most of us do not live in Nielsen households. Because many viewers feel frustration when their viewing habits and opinions aren't considered, we invite you to rate all of the second season episodes of American Soul here.

A Bet drama series, American Soul stars Sinqua Walls, Kelly Price, Jason Dirden, Iantha Richardson, Katlyn Nichol, and Christopher Jefferson. Season two guests include Big Boi, Ledisi, Melanie Fiona, Demetria McKinney, London Brown, Darius McCrary, Tone Bell, Yung Joc, D.C. Young Fly, Christopher B. Duncan, Kearran Giovanni, Alex Ball, and Hudson Thames. The series blends fictional and real-life people, places, and events, as...

Exclusive: We’ll be seeing a slew of music industry icons and visionaries portrayed in the upcoming second season of American Soul, the Don Cornelius-infused period drama, set for premiere on Bet in 2020.

American Soul takes an unflinching look at the entrepreneur, his Soul Train dancers, crew and musicians in an unforgiving Hollywood in the 1970’s – how they work, play, rise and fall against the backdrop of Soul Train — “the hippest trip in America” and one of the most predominant television shows for African American culture.

Inspired by the personal trials and professional successes of a young, ambitious and troubled impressario Cornelius, season two of the period drama picks up two years later in 1975. As Don, played by Sinqua Walls, becomes a rising star, he continues to manage an assortment of spectacular talent that comes to his show, a shaky family life, personal health and perhaps most importantly, his own ego.

TV One and Lexus have announced the return of the network's variety show "Lexus Verses and Flow," premiering on July 30, and airing on Thursday nights.  Blending musical and spoken word performances, the 8-episode season will feature stars like Charlie Wilson, Jussie Smollett, Sevyn Streeter, Jazmine Sullivan, Melanie Fiona, Avery Sunshine, Leela James, Chrisette Michelle and Assassin alongside more than 24 of the best up-and-coming poets. Laz Alonso returns for his second season as the series' host. "TV One is excited to partner with Lexus for season five of the innovative series that captures the...

For the second time, HBO teamed up with some music industry artists for another installment of "Catch the Throne: The Mixtape," for the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning series "Game of Thrones." Building on the success of Volume 1 - with over 2.5 million streams to date - that attracted hip-hop and reggaeton fans alike, the 15-song Volume 2, which is now available, features music from Method Man, Snoop Dogg, Talib Kweli, Estelle, Ty Dolla $ign, Melanie Fiona, Yandel, and several others. "Off the top, I love Game of Thrones - I even gave my expert analysis of this season on my Ggn show. It's like the rap game, it's gangster, about family, loyalty...

Winter is almost coming to Westeros as the fifth season of Game of Thrones draws near, but before George R.R. Martin's fantasy series returns on April 12th, HBO will drop the second volume of their Catch the Throne: The Mixtape, a mix of hip-hop and heavy metal tracks inspired by the show. The first cut off the compilation was Talib Kweli's "Lord of the Light," and today Mastodon premiered their Throne track "White Walker," an ode to the terrifying frostbitten undead that sulk beyond the Wall.

Mastodon's foreboding...

Today, HBO announced the release date for Catch the Throne: The Mixtape Vol. II, which hits on March 17. This news arrives with a full list of artists featured on the second installment of the Mixtape, for the Emmy and Golden Globe winning series Game of Thrones. Produced by Launch Point Records, the 15-track soundtrack features diverse artists representing Game of Thrones families, leveraging themes and highlights from Season 4. Fans can listen to the song "Lord of the Light" by Talib Kweli on Complex. The mixtape will be released in anticipation of the Season 5 debut of Game of Thrones on HBO, April 12 at 9pm.

Showcasing the importance of music in Game of Thrones, each song on the mixtape samples music from the show's Season 4 soundtrack. This year's mixtape also weaves in the overarching theme of fire and ice, providing listeners with an exciting line-up of heavy metal and hip-hop artists. Building...

Score one for the birthday boy.

The Voice coach Adam Levine – who turned 35 Tuesday – stole powerful young singer Brittnee Camelle away from Team Usher during the second night of battle rounds after she barely lost an epic battle against teammate Melissa Jimenez.

The two singers delivered a steamy version of Melanie Fiona's "Give It to Me Right" that earned praise for their commanding vocals and sultry stage presence.

"I thought it was awesome: [it had] edge, pocket, sassiness. It was just smoking hot," Shakira gushed.

Levine rightly predicted fellow coach Blake Shelton "is probably having a heart attack right now."

"I need a minute,...

Adam Levine stole Brittnee Camelle from Team Usher and Delvin Choice, Ddendyl and more moved forward on The Voice battle rounds part 2.

First in the hot seat was Shakira, who pit Clarissa Serna against Jeremy Briggs. The rockers were well matched singing “Cold as Ice” by Foreigner. Shakira wanted Clarissa and Jeremy to sing together, instead of against each other, telling them that while this is a competition, they needed to be able to at least nail the harmonies if they wanted to give a good performance. The coaches weren’t sure who to pick as their choice for the winner, Blake went with Clarissa, but Usher supported Jeremy. Shakira ended up going with who she thought she could help more, and that made Clarissa the winner of the battle, and Jeremy was sent home.

Caleb Elder and Delvin Choice were up next from Team Adam, singing “The Man” by Aloe Blacc.

The competition is heating up on The Voice, and People confirms exclusively the second set of head-to-head battles to air on Tuesday night.

During the battle rounds, coaches Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Shakira and Usher each pair together singers from his or her team to perform a song. The winner will advance and the loser will head home, unless one of the coaches decides to save the contestant with a steal, allowing the vocalist to stay in the game and switch teams.

Here are the pairings for the second battle round.

Team Adam

Caleb Elder vs. Delvin Choice

"The Man...

The competition is heating up on The Voice, and People confirms exclusively the second set of head-to-head battles to air on Tuesday night. During the battle rounds, coaches Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Shakira and Usher each pair together singers from his or her team to perform a song. The winner will advance and the loser will head home, unless one of the coaches decides to save the contestant with a steal, allowing the vocalist to stay in the game and switch teams. Here are the pairings for the second battle round. Team Adam Caleb Elder vs. Delvin Choice "The Man...

This is it! Tonight’s Feb. 18 episode of ‘American Idol’ takes us live to its first ever Rush Week where we watch 10 out of 15 girls perform for America’s votes — one of whom was shamed by Harry Connick Jr. for her sexy song choice!

For the special occasion of American Idol‘s very first “Rush Week” and this season’s first live show, Keith Urban wore his finest t-shirt! Because two hours just isn’t enough time, the judges will choose just 10 out of 15 to perform, leaving the other five without even the opportunity to earn America’s vote! Harsh. See below for who got the chance to perform and to see how they fared, and to find out why Harry decided to shame 18-year-old Emily Piriz for her song choice!

‘American Idol’ Recap: Rush Week Begins

The episode opens with Ryan Seacrest on a dark stage with a lone spotlight trained on him,...

"American Idol" Season 13 is finally starting the live shows with the Top 15 girls Tuesday (Feb. 18), though only 10 of them will get to perform, which doesn't seem very fair (and as it will turn out, is not fair because so many of them completely tank). They've been working hard in boot camp all week and now only some of them get to perform? Mean.

Before things kick off, Harry Connick Jr. says this is the most talented group since the first year. That's ... not a good comparison. Kelly Clarkson is awesome, but let's not get carried away that Season 1 is the pinnacle of talent for this show, Hcj.

Just as a reminder, the viewers will vote five men and five women into the Top 13 and the judges will pick the three wild card spots. Let's get to the performances:

1. Majesty Rose, 'Happy,' Pharrell Williams

Terrible song choice. Majesty can sing,...

--Jamie Foxx whispering in Melanie Fiona's ear at the Rolling Stone Bacardi Rebels event in NYC. --New York Giants player Victor Cruz dancing to the music of DJ Whoo Kid at the new Wednesday night party at Pink Elephant in NYC. --Julianne Hough, Audrina Patridge, Janel Parrish and Vanessa Hudgens partying at the launch of the HairUWear Extension Bar at Nine Zero One salon in West Hollywood. --Russell Simmons checking out his recently launched RushCard Live – a new prepaid Visa card available in retail stores across the country [...]...

-- Talib Kweli, "Prisoner of Conscious" (Javotti Media/Caroline Distribution)

Throughout his career, whether in his early collaborative work with fellow Brooklynite Mos Def in Black Star or with the Cincinnati producer-rapper Hi-Tek, Talib Kweli consistently combined his conscious approach to writing with a verbal dexterity marked by a dazzling rapid-fire delivery.

His fifth solo album, "Prisoner of Conscious," is being billed as a departure of sorts because of the inclusion of tracks like "High Life," a collaboration with the Sierra Leone artist Bajah and rapper Rubix Cube that celebrates the music style of one of Kweli's heroes, the late Nigerian singer-activist Fela Kuti. Another genre detour is a track featuring the Brazilian singer Seu Jorge, an ode to the slums of that country's cities called "Favela Love."

And there is a litany of other featured artists sprinkled throughout the record's 16 tracks, including Miguel, Kendrick Lamar, Busta Rhymes and Melanie Fiona.

Thanks to viral video culture anyone with a working webcam thinks they can make like they're Snoop Dogg in a coffeehouse. Most are not very good, but sometimes — like when Melanie Fiona sang Drake's much-covered "Started From The Bottom" in a harmonious show of hometown love — it all comes together.

Yes, Fiona is a Grammy-winner, but the Internet doesn't really care if these covers are performed by professionals or amateurs, especially if an unexpected genre change reveals an added depth to the songwriting. The results just have to be cool enough or funny enough to pass on.

So click the gallery below to watch 10 non-hip-hop covers of hip-hop songs that went viral, from a geeky-looking teen turning "Sexy And I Know It" into a brilliant blues jam to an all-white girl a capella group crooning "Bitches Ain't Shit":...

With the fabulous extravaganza coming to an end, the 55th Annual Grammy Awards named the year’s big winners during an extremely entertaining presentation at the Staples Center on Sunday (February 10).

Taking home the top prize tonight was Mumford and Sons winning Album of the Year, while other tremendous victors included Adele, The Black Keys, and Carrie Underwood.

While viewers found out who took home the prizes of the night, they were also treated to dazzling performances from Rihanna with Bruno Mars and Sting, along with Miss Undersood, Justin Timberlake, and Taylor Swift.

In addition, Fun. cleaned up by taking home the coveted award for Song of the Year and Best New Artist.

Meanwhile, the complete list of 2013 Grammy Award Winners is as follows:

General Field

Record Of The Year

Lonely Boy - The Black Keys

Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson

We Are Young - Fun. featuring...

Los Angeles -- Toronto rapper Drake finally won his first Grammy Award on Sunday afternoon, while the rest of the Canadian field was shut out at an untelevised ceremony where the bulk of the prizes were handed out ahead of the evening gala.

Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys and Skrillex won three Grammys each while Jay-z, Kanye West, Esperanza Spalding, Gotye and Chick Corea all won two awards apiece at a three-hour ceremony at the Nokia Theatre in which 70 Grammys were distributed before the splashy TV broadcast.

Drake has been nominated a total of 12 times, and in 10 of those instances, he wound up losing to one of Jay-z, West or Eminem (in fact, the Jay-z/West combo beat him out in two of his nominated categories on Sunday too).

But the 26-year-old born Aubrey Graham didn't have any of those hip hop titans to contend with in the best rap album category,...

The 55th Grammy Awards have arrived, and music's biggest night promises a ton of trophies, and hopefully some great live performances by today's hottest acts. Who has the best record of 2012? How about the year's best new artist? Stick with Zap2it throughout the night, as we continue updating the list of this year's winners!

All of the award categories are below, with the winners in bold.

Record of the Year"Lonely Boy" by The Black Keys"Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" by Kelly Clarkson"We Are Young" by Fun., featuring Janelle Monáe"Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye, featuring Kimbra"Thinkin Bout You" by Frank Ocean"We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" by Taylor Swift

Album of the Year"El Camino" by The Black Keys"Some Nights" by Fun."Babel" by Mumford & Sons"Channel Orange" by Frank Ocean"Blunderbuss" by Jack White

Song of the Year...

Los Angeles — Jay-z and Beyonce sat tightly with Solange. Kelly Rowland embraced Beyonce with a huge hug. And Rihanna spilled some of her drink laughing with Rowland.

Music's top stars attended the annual pre-Grammy Roc Nation and Nokia brunch Saturday at the Soho House.

Grammy nominee Miguel, Timbaland, Jill Scott and Kylie Mingoue also attended the exclusive event.

Jay-z is one of six acts nominated for six awards at Sunday's Grammys. Rihanna is up for three trophies, and Beyonce is nominated for one award.

The crowd Saturday was full of members of music industry, who mingled with performers like The-Dream, Jordin Sparks, Melanie Fiona, Diane Warren, Christina Milian, Mc Lyte and Santigold.

Our two music awards editors -- Darrin Dortch and David Schnelwar -- agree on the winner of Best Traditional R&B Performance at this Sunday's Grammys. -Insertgroups:12- Anita Baker - “Lately” Beyonce - “Love On Top” -- Darrin, David Melanie Fiona - “Wrong Side Of A Love Song” Gregory Porter - “Real Good Hands” Swv - “If Only You Knew” Darrin's analysis Veteran Anita Baker (“Lately”), last year’s winner Melanie Fiona (“Wrong Side of a Love Song”) and comeback kids Swv (“If You Only Knew”) are all competitive here. However, I expect Beyonce to win since she has the category’s biggest hit. -Addprediction:76:149:Click to predict Traditional R&B Grammy:addprediction- David's analysis Melanie Fiona won in this category last year for her collaboration with Cee Lo Green for the song “Fool For You.&rdquo...

Divas may not be known for playing well with others, but there’s one thing on which they can all agree: Whitney Houston was their queen. And at last night’s VH1 Divas concert, the grand dame of divadom got a fitting tribute from a trio of young upstarts. Of course, none of those ladies sounded quite as wonderful as Whitney in her prime — but the number was moving and groove-worthy all the same.

After an introduction courtesy of Brandy — who played the title character to Houston’s Fairy Godmother in 1997′s Cinderella — American Idol winner Jordin Sparks kicked things...

It's fair to say they're all pretty excited. From rappers to pop stars to old school rockers, his year's Grammy nominees wasted no time in voicing their reactions to the nods via Twitter. You can check out a sampling below (full list of nominees here). Tyrese: "2 Grammy Noms!!! R&B Album Of The Year My Album Open Invitation and Anita Baker's single -Lately!!! God Is The Greatest!!!!!!!" Robert Glasper (Robert Glasper Experiment): Black Radio 2 Grammy Nomms!! Best R&B album and Best R&B performance with @ledisi!! Thanx to all that voted, believed and supported us! Melanie Fiona: "Words can't even describe...

Kelly Clarkson and Pitbull have been added to the lineup for VH1 Divas. Melanie Fiona and Metric are also scheduled to take part in VH1's tribute to the dance music of Donna Summer and Whitney Houston, who both died earlier this year. VH1 previously announced that Miley Cyrus, Kelly Rowland, Ciara and Demi Lovato will also take part in the live concert. Adam Lambert will host the December television special, while Havana Brown is to serve as the official VH1 Divas (more)...

VH1 is expanding its roster of Diva-worthy performers, adding Kelly Clarkson, Pitbull, Melanie Fiona and Metric to the network’s annual Divas show. Photos: 12 of 'American Idol's Most Popular Heartthrobs The artists join previously announced performers Ciara, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Kelly Rowland and Jordin Sparks as they all pay homage to the most iconic divas of dance music, including the late Whitney Houston and Donna Summer. The celebration, hosted by American Idol diva Adam Lambert, will broadcast live from L.A.’s Shrine Auditorium on Sunday, Dec. 16, at 9 p.m. Et/Pt. Havana Brown, whose “We Run

read more...

Rewind time for the Soul Train Awards 2012, held at Planet Hollywood Live in Las Vegas, also simulcast on Bet and Centric on November 25th at 8Pm Et/Pt. Host Cedric the Entertainer, along with Stevie Wonder, Charlie Wilson, New Edition, Ne-Yo, and 2 Chainz, encouraged people of all ages to dance and sing along to their memorable and popular songs. From Bet Celebrities from music, film, sports and television such as Jamie Foxx, Stevie Wonder, Eddie Levert, Billy Crystal, Earvin .Magic. Johnson, Melanie Fiona, Jody Watley, Doug E. Fresh, Tony Rock, Luke James, Estelle, Donny and Marie Osmond, Vampire Diaries star Kat Graham, and Tamar Braxton, joined Soul Train in celebrating some of the best musical contributions of 2012.

J Cole, whose 2011 debut, “Cole World: The Sideline Story,” bowed at No. 1, will release his sophomore set, “Born Sinner,” on Jan. 28, 2013. [More after the jump...] The rapper released a trailer with the news. It features a small boy kneeling at an altar. It’s beautiful, but very short on details. The boy holds up a sign that reads “Aren’t we all sinnners?” And then one that reads, “Aren’t we all saints?,” that follows with the release date information. At the end, there’s a snippet of a song that may be from the album. Melanie Fiona told Billboard that...

New York — Ne-Yo channeled Michael Jackson on the late singer's 54th birthday at an event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the King of Pop's multiplatinum "Bad" album.

Ne-Yo performed "Smooth Criminal," "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" and "The Way You Make Me Feel" on Wednesday night at New York's Gotham Hall, imitating Jackson's signature dance moves and vocal tones.

The R&B singer said in an interview ahead of his performance: "You just don't do a Michael song, you try and do the best you can." He also said he learned how to sing because of Jackson and that the icon's musical influence was "tattooed" on his heart.

Singer Melanie Fiona also performed at the Pepsi and Billboard event. The Grammy winner belted covers of "Bad" and "Dirty Diana."...

The stars were out last night at the Bet Awards to celebrate some of the biggest names in music. But there was not one person in the audience that didn’t get emotional during a 20-minute tribute to the late Whitney Houston, who died in February at age 48. Mariah Carey introduced Monica, who completely rocked a rendition of “I Love the Lord,” and then Brandy kicked off the party with “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” Later Whitney’s mother, Cissy Houston, took the stage and we already felt the tears welling up in our eyes. We knew already to expect greatness from the soul and gospel singer as she began singing “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” She dedicated the song to her late daughter saying, “This is for you, Nip.” That’s when the tears really started to flow. A beautiful teary-eyed Beyoncé was caught on camera as well as Soulja Boy...

Whitney Houston's mother performed a rousing, emotional tribute to her late daughter at the Bet Awards.

Beyonce, Melanie Fiona and others cried as Cissy Houston sang "Bridge Over Troubled Water" on Sunday night.

Mariah Carey opened the tribute with memories of her friend. She was followed by a moving number by Monica. Brandy, heavily influenced by Houston, sang two of the late singer's hits. Chaka Khan blazed the stage with "I'm Every Woman," which Houston remade. Gary Houston, Whitney's brother, also performed.

The nearly four-hour show also featured Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West and Jay-z. The latter two won video of the year for "Otis"; they also won best group. Beyonce and Chris Brown were among the double winners.

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Online:

http://www.bet.com/shows/bet-awards/2012.html

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Follow Mesfin Fekadu on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/musicmesfin...

Cissy Houston's tribute to her late daughter was the emotional highlight of Sunday's Bet Awards, a show that was defined by extended bleeps and the vulgarities that censors failed to catch onstage throughout the night. Whitney Houston's mother gave a rousing performance of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" that left the crowd in tears, including Beyonce and Melanie Fiona. Mariah Carey opened the tribute with memories of her friend. She was followed by a moving number by Monica. Brandy, heavily influenced by Houston, sang two of the late singer's hits. Chaka Khan blazed the stage with "I'm Every Woman," which Houston remade....

Whitney Houston's mother performed a rousing, emotional tribute to her late daughter at the Bet Awards.

Beyonce, Melanie Fiona and others cried as Cissy Houston sang "Bridge Over Troubled Water" on Sunday night.

Mariah Carey opened the tribute with memories of her friend. She was followed by a moving number by Monica. Brandy, heavily influenced by Houston, sang two of the late singer's hits. Chaka Khan blazed the stage with "I'm Every Woman," which Houston remade. Gary Houston, Whitney's brother, also performed.

The nearly four-hour show also featured Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West and Jay-z. The latter two won video of the year for "Otis"; they also won best group. Beyonce and Chris Brown were among the double winners.

___

Online:

http://www.bet.com/shows/bet-awards/2012.html

___

Follow Mesfin Fekadu on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/musicmesfin...

Digital Spy presents a list of the winners and nominees at the Bet Awards 2012, held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on Sunday, July 1: Best Female R&B Artist

Marsha Ambrosius

Beyoncé - Winner

Mary J Blige

Melanie Fiona

Rihanna Best Male R&B Artist

Chris Brown - Winner

Bruno Mars

Miguel

Trey Songz

Usher Best Group

Bad Meets Evil

Diddy Dirty Money

Maybach Music Group

Mindless Behavior

The Throne (Jay-z and Kanye West) - Winner Best Collaboration

Beyoncé f/ J. Cole - 'Party'

Big Sean f/ Kanye West & Roscoe Dash

DJ Khaled f/ Drake, Rick Ross & Lil Wayne

Drake f/ Lil Wayne and Tyga - 'The Motto'

The Throne (Jay-z & Kanye West) f/ Otis Redding

Wale f/ Miguel - 'Lotus Flower Bomb' - Winner Best Male Hip-Hop Artist

Big Sean

Drake (more)...

Following in the footsteps of Whitney Houston, Sam Cooke, Bob Marley, Sade, and Lauryn Hill is something that Melanie Fiona has always admired throughout her career. In support of Black Music Month, the Canadian-bred Grammy Award-winner opened up to the Huffington Post exclusively on the five black music icons and how they have inspired her to embark on a recording career.

“I think each one of those artists brings something very unique to their story and what their story is and what their passion is,” the 28-year-old explained. “And I think that you know it stems from great song writing and great voices really. I just think that that's definitely what I'm inspired by. You know Sam Cooke and Whitney Houston I'd probably say are my two ultimate favorite favorites for voices. Bob Marley is just so...so powerful in showing that music can have a message and how that...

See the full list of Bet Award nominees right here! Does Chris stand a chance against Kanye? The 2012 Bet Awards are going to be crazy! Not only is the big event — which airs live on July 1 — being hosted by Samuel L. Jackson, but it'll also featured a royal rumble of the biggest names in hip-hop! The full list of nominees has been released, and it looks like Kanye West is dominating, beating even Chris Brown and Beyoncé! Browse the full list and tell us who You will be rooting for. Best Female R&B Artist: Marsha Ambrosius Beyoncé Mary J. Blige Melanie Fiona Rihanna Best Male R&B Artist: Chris Brown Bruno Mars Miguel Trey Songz Usher Best Group: Bad Meets Evil DiddyDirty Money Maybach Music Group Mindless Behavior The Throne (JayZ & Kanye West) Best Collaboration: Beyoncé featuring J. Cole, "Party" Big Sean featuring Kanye West & Roscoe Dash, "Marvin & Chardonnay" DJ Khaled featuring Drake,...

Chris Brown and Beyonce Knowles are among the dominating names on the nomination list of the 2012 Bet Awards announced on Tuesday, May 22. Breezy will face off the likes of Bruno Mars, Usher, Trey Songz and Miguel in the Best Male R&B Artist. He's also nominated for Video Director of the Year and Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award.

Queen Bey, meanwhile, leads the pack by grabbing six nods in total. The wife of Jay-z will compete against Marsha Ambrosius, Rihanna, Mary J. Blige and Melanie Fiona in claiming the Best Female R&B Artist title. Her other nominations include Best Collaboration for her work with J. Cole in "Party", and Video of the Year for her clip "Countdown".

In movie field, "The Help" actress Viola Davis and "Colombiana" star Zoe Saldana are facing off each other in the Best Actress category. On the other hand, "Thor" actor Idris Elba and "Safe House...

Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj are confirmed to perform at the 2012 Bet Awards on July 1.

By Rob Markman

Kanye West

Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Expect lots of drama, plenty of laughs and possibly even a few superheroes in the building when Samuel L. Jackson hosts the 2012 Bet Awards on July 1, live from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. On Tuesday (May 22), Bet announced the nominees for their 2012 awards show and even confirmed performances by Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj (though there was no official word on whether the Hulk will attend).

Bet president Stephen Hill held a press conference in New York City on Tuesday, and with the help of Big Sean, DJ Khaled, A$AP Rocky, Diggy, Mindless Behavior and Melanie Fiona, he spilled the beans about the big show. Samuel L. wasn't in attendance, but "The Avengers" star sent a pre-taped message promising that the show will be "too big to miss.

Here’s a PSA for childhood literacy produced by The Roots, featuring the voice talents of Jack Black, Chris Martin, John Legend, Regina Spektor, Jim James, Nate Ruess, Jason Schwartzman, Melanie Fiona, Carrie Brownstein, Consequence, and Levar Burton (Burton is a frickin’ literacy-curiosity-inspiring powerhouse.) It’s just a fun, happy one-minute video about literary characters hanging out, and it seems like something kids would really like (do kids still like things these days, or only that damn Nintendo?) You could say they’re really attacking the…Roots…of the problem? Boom! And The Roots Themselves Can Play The Rimshot! It’s all gonna work out fine, people: (via CriticalMob)...

Something old (like Michael Jackson's "Human Nature") and something new Taylor Swift's "Safe & Sound") are all sharing space on People Music Editor Chuck Arnold's playlist. Check out what he has to say about the songs - and click the playlist to hear them on Spotify! "Get Right" by Jennifer Lopez I'm not loving the new J.Lo single "Dance Again," but this James Brown-sampling Jam from '05 - the funkiest thing she's ever done - is still righteous. "This Time" by Melanie Fiona This banger kicks off The Mf Life - the stellar second set from this...

You wanted some current music on American Idol? Well Uncle Nigel is gonna give you current music on American Idol!

That’s right: On this Wednesday’s performance show, the Top 7 contestants will tackle Songs from This Decade — 2010 to 2012 (aka The Ke$ha Years), and now we all need to say a collective novena that nobody’s going to cover “I’m Sexy and I Know It.” (Not that it’s not on my iPod, but come on.)

American Idol Top 8 Results Recap: It’s Just a Shame, That’s All

Below, you’ll find my suggestions to help the...

Adele's 21 remains at #2, followed by the Shins'Port of Morrow and One Direction's Up All Night.

By Gil Kaufman

Jennifer Lawrence in "The Hunger Games"

Photo: Lionsgate

After its $155 million box-office opening, "The Hunger Games" pulled off the rare double-play by landing its soundtrack at the top of the Billboard 200 charts in the same week. "The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond," sold 175,000 last week, according to figures provided by Nielsen SoundScan.

The compilation, which features songs by Taylor Swift with the Civil Wars, as well as tunes by Maroon 5, the Decemberists, Miranda Lambert, Arcade Fire and Kid Cudi, sold just enough copies to once again keep Adele at #2, where her tenacious 21 sold another 130,000 copies.

After a five-year hiatus, the Shins returned with their fourth studio album, Port of Morrow, which landed at #3 (74,000), while rowdy hip-hop collective Odd Future debuted at #5 with Of Tape, Vol. 2. The...

Tonight Christina Aguilera from NBC.s .The Voice. brings her team with her so they can sing for the audience during each commercial break. Aguilera talks with Jay about the success of .The Voice,. what she thinks of each of her fellow coaches and if there is any sexual chemistry between her and Adam Levine. Later, Director Kevin Smith talks about what it was like working with Bruce Willis on a movie and how he reacted when Gayle King started reading his book out loud to him. Melanie Fiona featuring J. Cole perform. Jay Leno.S Monologue Friday, March 23, 2012 Man.I Saw It..It.S A Great Movie. That Is So Huge.It.S Opening This Weekend, .The Hunger Games.. You Know...