Tia Rivera on Sway In The Morning: Mastering Creativity and Transitioning to Choreography

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Tia Rivera recently made a special appearance on Sway In The Morning, where she delved into the intricacies of her illustrious career as a renowned choreographer. Known for her exceptional talent in the dance world, Tia shared her journey from being a dancer to becoming a sought-after choreographer for some of the biggest names in music. During the interview, she emphasized the significance of mastering creativity, explaining how she transitioned from performing to envisioning entire routines, which now captivate audiences worldwide. Her story is one of passion and dedication, highlighting how her love for dance evolved into a thriving career in choreography.

One of the key highlights of the interview was when Tia reminisced about her first choreography job. She painted a vivid picture of the excitement and nervousness that accompanied her initial steps into this new role. With a mix of determination and raw talent, Tia seized the opportunity to make her mark, setting the stage for her future successes. She also spoke about her collaboration with Fatima Robinson, a legendary figure in the industry. Tia described how working with Robinson sharpened her skills and expanded her creative horizons, providing her with invaluable guidance and inspiration.

Tia further opened up about some of the challenges dancers face today, including the intense competition and physical demands of the profession. She recounted her experience auditioning for Beyoncé, sharing insights into the rigorous and often daunting process of securing such high-profile gigs. Tia’s candid discussion shed light on the resilience required to thrive in the dance industry. Despite the obstacles, her journey stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of continually honing one’s craft. Her words offered both inspiration and practical advice for aspiring dancers and choreographers alike.

2024 BET Awards Drake Leads Nominations Full List Revealed

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The BET Awards have always been a highlight in the entertainment industry, celebrating the best in music, film, sports, and more. This year is no exception. With the 2024 BET Awards just around the corner, let’s take a closer look at the nominations and what to expect from this year’s show.

The Significance of the BET Awards

The BET Awards, often dubbed “Culture’s Biggest Night,” are more than just an awards show. They reflect the accomplishments and influence of African American culture and other minorities in various entertainment fields. This year’s event promises to be a memorable one, with none other than Taraji P. Henson setting the tone for the evening.

Drake Leads the Pack

Leading the nominations this year is none other than Drake, who has received a whopping seven nods. Known for his chart-topping hits and massive influence in the music industry, it’s no surprise that Drake is at the forefront. His nominations span various categories, showcasing his versatility and appeal.

Nicki Minaj Close Behind

Hot on Drake’s heels is Nicki Minaj, with six nominations. Nicki has been a powerhouse in the music industry for years, and her continued success is evident in her multiple nominations. Fans are eagerly awaiting her performances and possible wins.

Other Top Nominees

Not far behind are J. Cole, Sexyy Red, SZA, and Victoria Monét, each with five nominations. These artists have made significant contributions to music over the past year, and their recognition at the BET Awards is well-deserved.

21 Savage, Beyoncé, Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion, Tyla, and Usher

Each of these artists has received four nominations, further highlighting the diverse talent celebrated at this year’s BET Awards. Their contributions to music and culture continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

The 2024 BET Awards Event Details

Mark your calendars! The 2024 BET Awards will air live from Los Angeles on June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. This event will be a night to remember, filled with unforgettable performances and emotional moments.

Highlights from the Album of the Year Category

This year’s Album of the Year category is packed with incredible talent. Some of the nominees include:

  • Chris Brown, 11:11
  • Gunna, A Gift & A Curse
  • 21 Savage, American Dream
  • Usher, Coming Home
  • Drake, For All the Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)
  • Victoria Monét, Jaguar II
  • Killer Mike, Michael
  • Nicki Minaj, Pink Friday 2

These albums have left a significant mark on the music industry, and fans are excited to see who will take home the award.

Notable Nominations in Viewer’s Choice Award

The Viewer’s Choice Award category is always one of the most anticipated. This year, some of the nominees include:

  • Lil Durk feat. J. Cole, “All My Life”
  • Tyla, “Water”
  • Victoria Monét, “On My Mama”

These tracks have dominated the charts and playlists, making this category highly competitive.

Drake and Burna Boy are both nominated for BET Awards for both best male R&B/pop artist and best male hip-hop artist. Doja Cat is nominated in the equivalent categories for female artists, a testament to their broad appeal and versatility.

Best Movie Nominees

This year’s Best Movie category features a mix of biopics and films that have captured audiences’ hearts. Notable nominees include:

  • Bob Marley One Love
  • Renaissance A Film by Beyoncé

These films have made significant cultural impacts, making this category particularly exciting.

YoungStars Award Spotlight

Blue Ivy Carter, the 12-year-old daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, has been nominated for the YoungStars Award. This nomination recognizes her growing influence and talent at such a young age.

Halle Bailey’s Double Nomination

Halle Bailey is nominated for best actress and also for the Dr. Bobby Jones best gospel/inspirational award for “Angel.” Her versatility and talent are clearly shining through in these nominations.

Nominations were determined by the BET Voting Academy, comprised of entertainment professionals and influencers in music, media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and creative arts. This diverse group ensures that the nominations reflect a wide range of opinions and insights.

Voting for the Viewer’s Choice Award

Fans have the power to vote for their favorites in the Viewer’s Choice Award category. Voting begins on June 6 and ends on June 30, allowing fans to have their say in who takes home the coveted award.

Connie Orlando, EVP, specials, music programming & music strategy, will oversee and executive produce the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, SVP, tentpoles & music community engagement co-executive producing for BET. Jesse Collins Entertainment is the production company for the show, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay also serving as executive producers.

Complete List of Nominees

For those eager to see the full list of nominees, here it is:

Album of the Year

  • Chris Brown, 11:11
  • Gunna, A Gift & A Curse
  • 21 Savage, American Dream
  • Usher, Coming Home
  • Drake, For All the Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)
  • Victoria Monét, Jaguar II
  • Killer Mike, Michael
  • Nicki Minaj, Pink Friday 2

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

  • Beyoncé
  • Coco Jones
  • Doja Cat
  • H.E.R.
  • Muni Long
  • SZA
  • Tyla
  • Victoria Monét

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist

Best Group

  • ¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $ign
  • 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne
  • 41
  • Blxst & Bino Rideaux
  • City Girls
  • Flo
  • Maverick City Music
  • Wanmor

Best Collaboration

Best Female Hip-Hop Artist

  • Cardi B
  • Doja Cat
  • GloRilla
  • Ice Spice
  • Latto
  • Megan Thee Stallion
  • Nicki Minaj
  • Sexyy Red

Best Male Hip-Hop Artist

  • 21 Savage
  • Burna Boy
  • Drake
  • Future
  • Gunna
  • J. Cole
  • Kendrick Lamar
  • Lil Wayne

Best New Artist

  • 41
  • 4Batz
  • Ayra Starr
  • Bossman Dlow
  • Fridayy
  • October London
  • Sexyy Red
  • Tyla

Video of the Year

  • Doja Cat, “Agora Hills”
  • Lil Durk feat J. Cole, “All My Life”
  • Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (With Aqua), “Barbie World”
  • Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion, “Bongos”
  • Drake feat. J. Cole, “First Person Shooter”
  • Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage, “Good Good”
  • Victoria Monét, “On My Mama”
  • Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA, “Rich Baby Daddy”

Video Director of the Year

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

Viewer’s Choice Award

  • Doja Cat, “Agora Hills”
  • Lil Durk feat. J. Cole, “All My Life”
  • Gunna, “Fukumean”
  • Jack Harlow, “Lovin on Me”
  • Muni Long, “Made for Me”
  • Victoria Monét, “On My Mama”
  • Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA, “Rich Baby Daddy”
  • Chris Brown feat. Davido & Lojay, “Sensational”
  • Beyoncé, “Texas Hold ‘Em”
  • Tyla, “Water”

Best International Act

  • Asake (Africa)
  • Aya Nakamura (France)
  • Ayra Starr (Africa)
  • Bk’ (Brazil)
  • Cleo Sol (UK)
  • Focalistic (Africa)
  • Karol Conká (Brazil)
  • Raye (UK)
  • Tiakola (France)
  • Tyla (Africa)

Viewer’s Choice Best New International Act

  • Bellah (UK)
  • Cristale (UK)
  • Duquesa (Brazil)
  • Holly G (France)
  • Jungeli (France)
  • Makhadzi (Africa)
  • Oruam (Brazil)
  • Seyi Vibez (Africa)
  • Tyler Icu (Africa)

BET Her

  • Beyoncé, “16 Carriages”
  • Nicki Minaj feat. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, “Blessings”
  • Ayra Starr, “Commas”
  • Flo feat. Missy Elliott, “Fly Girl”
  • Megan Thee Stallion, “Hiss”
  • Victoria Monét, “On My Mama”
  • SZA, “Saturn”
  • GloRilla, “Yeah Glo!”

Best Movie

  • American Fiction
  • Bob Marley One Love
  • Renaissance A Film by Beyoncé
  • Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse
  • The Book of Clarence
  • The Color Purple
  • The Equalizer 3
  • The Little Mermaid

Best Actor

  • Anthony Mackie
  • Colman Domingo
  • Damson Idris
  • Denzel Washington
  • Donald Glover
  • Idris Elba
  • Jeffrey Wright
  • Lakeith Stanfield

Best Actress

  • Angela Bassett
  • Ayo Edebiri
  • Coco Jones
  • Danielle Brooks
  • Fantasia
  • Halle Bailey
  • Issa Rae
  • Regina King

YoungStars Award

  • Akira Akbar
  • Blue Ivy Carter
  • Demi Singleton
  • Heiress Diana Harris
  • Jabria McCullum
  • Jalyn Hall
  • Leah Jeffries
  • Van Van

Sportswoman of the Year Award

  • A’ja Wilson
  • Angel Reese
  • Coco Gauff
  • Flau’jae Johnson
  • Juju Watkins
  • Naomi Osaka
  • Sha’carri Richardson
  • Simone Biles

Sportsman of the Year Award

  • Anthony Edwards
  • Gervonta Davis
  • Jalen Brunson
  • Jalen Hurts
  • Kyrie Irving
  • Lebron James
  • Patrick Mahomes
  • Stephen Curry

The excitement is building as we approach the 2024 BET Awards. This year promises to be an unforgettable celebration of talent, culture, and entertainment. Don’t miss out on all the action, and be sure to tune in on June 30 to see who takes home the awards!

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Tinashe Stops by Sway In the Morning to Discuss New Song “Nasty”

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Pop and R&B sensation Tinashe recently dropped by Sway In the Morning for an engaging interview centered around her latest single, “Nasty.” The multifaceted artist delved into the creative process behind the song, which has quickly garnered attention for its sultry beats and bold lyrics. Tinashe’s candid conversation with Sway highlighted her evolution as an artist, touching on themes of sexual liberation and self-empowerment that are prominently featured in her new track. She shared, “‘Nasty’ is all about embracing your sensuality and being unapologetically yourself. I wanted to create something that felt liberating and empowering.”

During the interview, Tinashe also opened up about her personal definition of success, a topic that sparked an insightful discussion. “Success for me isn’t just about charts or numbers,” she explained. “It’s about personal growth, the ability to express myself freely through my music, and connecting with my fans on a deeper level. If I can inspire someone to be confident and true to themselves, that’s success.” Her words resonated with many listeners, reinforcing the notion that success is multifaceted and deeply personal.

Tinashe didn’t miss the opportunity to pay homage to one of her biggest influences, Janet Jackson. She spoke passionately about how Janet has shaped her artistry and career. “Janet Jackson has always been a huge inspiration for me. Her fearlessness, her ability to push boundaries, and her incredible stage presence—she’s set the bar high for all of us,” Tinashe said. She credited Janet’s influence not just musically, but also in terms of her approach to performance and empowerment. As Tinashe continues to carve out her place in the music industry, it’s clear that the legacy of icons like Janet Jackson will continue to guide and inspire her journey.

How to Watch the 2024 BET Awards

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The BET Awards 2024 is set to be a night of unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and celebration of Black excellence in entertainment. The event will be broadcast live on Sunday, June 30th at 8 PM ET/PT on BET, promising to bring together the biggest names in music, film, and culture. Fans can expect an evening filled with dynamic performances, moving speeches, and moments that will go down in history.

This year, Academy Award-nominated and Golden Globe-winning actor, author, director, producer, and philanthropist Taraji P. Henson will return to host the ceremony, live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Henson, known for her vibrant personality and charisma, is hosting the BET Awards for the third time. She expressed her excitement, saying, “I am thrilled to be returning as the host of the BET Awards for the third time. I am also looking forward to celebrating my peers and the impact of our culture on entertainment.” With Henson at the helm, viewers can anticipate a lively and engaging show.

One of the highlights of the night will be the honoring of Grammy award-winning global entertainment icon Usher with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement BET Award. The lineup of performers announced so far includes GloRilla, Latto, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, and Victoria Monét, ensuring a diverse and talented set of acts that will keep audiences entertained throughout the evening. Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET, shared her excitement: “Taraji is a phenom, known for her vibrant personality and charisma, and we are excited to welcome her back to host Culture’s Biggest Night, ‘BET Awards,’ the ultimate celebration of Black creativity. We are equally thrilled to have so many incredibly talented performers join us, standing on culture’s biggest stage to deliver an unforgettable night.”

Drake ha seven nominations this year to lead the field. Fans can click HERE for the complete list of the BET Awards 2024 nominees. Additionally, voting for the Viewer’s Choice Award began on June 6, 2024, and will end on June 30, 2024, at 6:30 PM PT/9:30 PM ET, allowing fans to have their say in one of the night’s most exciting categories. Be sure to tune in to BET on Sunday, June 30th at 8 PM ET/PT to witness the magic of the BET Awards 2024 live.

GloRilla Continues Her Summer Dominance with Video for New Anthem “TGIF”

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GRAMMY-nominated artist GloRilla is back, and she’s taking over the summer with the release of her new video for “TGIF.” Released via CMG/Interscope Records, the vibrant video is directed by Jerry Morka and Diesel, showcasing GloRilla as the ultimate party starter. The Memphis native brings her signature energy to the screen, encouraging friends to join her in an impromptu beachside celebration. The video features fun scenes of twerking atop a tour bus and dancing on the sand, perfectly capturing the carefree spirit that has made “TGIF” a viral sensation.

The track “TGIF” first gained massive traction when GloRilla previewed it on social media, sparking a wave of excitement among fans. The demand for its release skyrocketed, leading GloRilla to incorporate the song into her performances on Megan Thee Stallion’s Hot Girl Summer Tour. The crowds’ enthusiastic response, rapping along to lyrics like “It’s 7 pm Friday, it’s 95 degrees…I ain’t got no n—a and no n—a ain’t got me,” showcased the song’s infectious appeal and solidified its place as a summer anthem.

Adding to her momentum, GloRilla is set to perform this Sunday at the BET Awards, where she is nominated for two awards. This performance promises to be a highlight of the night, further cementing her status as one of Hip-Hop’s most exciting talents. With the release of the “TGIF” video and her upcoming BET Awards appearance, GloRilla continues to dominate the season, proving that her influence and charisma are undeniable. Fans can catch the video on YouTube here and look forward to more from this rising star.

Will Smith to Perform New Song at BET Awards on Sunday

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In what promises to be one of the most electrifying moments of the year, Will Smith is set to make his first major solo performance since the infamous Oscars incident with Chris Rock. The multi-talented star will grace the stage at the BET Awards this Sunday, June 30, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, where he will debut a new, original song. While details about the performance are being kept tightly under wraps, insiders hint that Smith is currently working on a new album, adding to the anticipation surrounding his return to music.

Smith’s upcoming appearance follows his surprise cameo with Colombian star J Balvin at Coachella in April, where he sported his iconic “Men in Black” costume during Balvin’s UFO-themed set. This playful yet powerful performance reminded fans of Smith’s versatility and charisma, setting the stage for what is expected to be a memorable night at the BET Awards. With his rich history in both music and film, Smith’s return to the stage is a testament to his enduring influence and adaptability in the entertainment industry.

Will Smith Performs 1988 Hit “Brand New Funk” Live on Sway In The Morning

The BET Awards, hosted once again by the talented Taraji P. Henson, is set to be a star-studded event. Grammy-winning singer Usher will receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement BET Award, recognizing his incredible contributions to music and culture. The lineup of performers is nothing short of spectacular, featuring artists like Ice Spice, Sexyy Red, Latto, Lauryn Hill & YG Marley, Tyla, GloRilla, Muni Long, Shaboozey, and Victoria Monét. Rising star Tanner Adell will take the BET Amplified stage, while additional appearances by Cardi B, Davido, Gunna, the Roots, Common, Queen Latifah, and the Jungle Brothers ensure an unforgettable evening. Leading the nominees with seven nods is none other than Drake, promising a competitive and thrilling awards show.

“From his start as a rapper to ‘The Fresh Prince’ to being a box office king as one of the Bad Boys, Will Smith is truly a global icon, and we are honored to welcome him back to grace the BET Awards stage,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “We look forward to Will adding to yet another defining night for the culture that is not to be missed.” Coming off en extremely successful launch of Bad Boys 4, Will is on fire right now and we look forward to the show on Sunday. check out the hilariously funny Sway In the Morning interview with Will and Martin Lawrence.

Da Beatminerz Drop ‘Stifled Creativity’ LP, Release Animated Video for ‘Back In Style’ Single Featuring Ras Kass

Stay up-to-date with the latest from Da Beatminerz as they release their new LP ‘Stifled Creativity.’ Dive into the animated video for their single ‘Back In Style,’ featuring the legendary Ras Kass. Immerse yourself in the culture and let us know your thoughts on this fresh drop! #HipHopCommunity #NewMusic #DaBeatminerz

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The legendary production duo, Da Beatminerz, makes a monumental return today with the release of their much-anticipated album, Stifled Creativity. It’s been 20 years since their last full-length project, and this latest offering is sure to resonate deeply with fans of underground Hip-Hop. The album, released via Soulspazm, features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including AZ, Black Moon, De La Soul, Keith Murray, Mickey Factz, and many more. Known for their dark, gritty beats that have defined the sound of underground Hip-Hop for over three decades, Mr. Walt and DJ Evil Dee have once again showcased their unparalleled production skills. The release comes almost exactly 20 years after their sophomore album, Fully Loaded w/ Statik, marking a significant milestone in their storied career.

Stifled Creativity is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of Da Beatminerz. This project has been nearly 15 years in the making, blending unreleased recordings with fresh new tracks. Fans will be thrilled to hear contributions from longtime collaborators such as De La Soul, KRS-One, Smif-N-Wessun, and others. Each track on the album reflects the distinct “Boom Bap” style that Da Beatminerz pioneered, yet it also pushes their sound forward in innovative ways. The album’s depth and diversity highlight the duo’s relentless dedication to the craft and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.

In conjunction with the album release, Da Beatminerz have also unveiled a vibrant animated music video for the single “Back In Style,” featuring Ras Kass. The video, created by Anthony Edwards, perfectly captures the energetic and dynamic essence of the track, adding a visual layer that complements the song’s robust sonic landscape. Fans can watch the “Back In Style” video on below. Both the album and the video underscore Da Beatminerz’s lasting impact on the genre and their unwavering commitment to delivering quality Hip-Hop to their audience.

Brandy Returns to Horror with The Front Room as Chaos Ensues Over Baby Names and Possessed In-Laws

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Brandy is making a thrilling return to the horror genre with the upcoming A24 film, The Front Room. In the newly released trailer, the former “Moesha” star takes on the role of Belinda, a woman whose life spirals into chaos following a series of dark events. From grappling with her father-in-law’s death to facing off with her husband over his possessed mother, Solange’s influence, Belinda finds herself mired in turmoil. Adding to the eerie atmosphere, a surprising twist involving the United Daughters of the Confederacy further complicates her already fraught life. As tensions rise, Belinda fears that her mother-in-law, played by Kathryn Hunter, may harbor sinister secrets, leading to a chilling struggle over something as seemingly trivial as the pronunciation of her name.

The official tagline for the movie sets the stage for a spine-tingling experience: “Everything goes to hell for newly-pregnant Belinda after her mother-in-law moves in — As the diabolical guest tries to get her claws on the child, Belinda must draw the line somewhere…” This harrowing premise promises a blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements, as Belinda fights to protect her unborn child from the malevolent forces lurking within her own home.

The Front Room marks Brandy’s first venture into horror since her role in the 1997 classic I Know What You Did Last Summer. Fans of the singer-songwriter will be eager to see her embrace a new kind of role, one that showcases her versatility as an actress. The combination of Brandy’s compelling performance and the film’s haunting narrative is sure to captivate audiences and leave them on the edge of their seats.

Written and directed by the filmmaking duo Max Eggers and Sam Eggers, known for their work on The Lighthouse and The Witch, The Front Room is set to release in theaters on September 6th. With the Eggers brothers at the helm, the film promises to deliver a uniquely unsettling experience, blending atmospheric tension with deeply personal conflicts. As Belinda navigates the terror within her own family, viewers can expect a gripping tale of survival and resilience in the face of unimaginable horror.

Juelz Santana x Jadakiss Drop “Party N Bullsh*t”

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Juelz is starting to ramp up dropping music at a furious pace, and we are here for it. It has been a while since we have had some consistent music from Santana, and linking up with Kiss is always a W! The two rap legends collab for their new record Party N Bullsh*t. Watch the video below.