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"Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj" Doesn't Miss a Step in new Quarantine Set Up

Although it's hard to ignore the lack of an audience, the sixth Volume of "Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj" continues to cover timely events with a style of comedy and charm that is hard to find in other talk shows

Many late night talk shows have made the transition to filming from the host’s home as a result of the coronavirus. While it is a valiant effort on the part of the shows the absence of an audience, which is such a large aspect of talk shows, is hard to ignore. “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj” is one such show that has recently resumed airing episodes without an audience. However, Patriot Act has remained consistently good during the pandemic and the timely topics discussed by Minhaj are more important than ever.

Perhaps the show doesn’t miss a step without an audience since it wasn’t filmed live in the first place. Patriot Act premiered in the fall of 2018 on Netflix with episodes also being uploaded to YouTube. The sixth season was set to begin airing on March 29 but had to be pushed back due to the coronavirus.

The most recent episode discusses the legal marijuana industry and how it is disenfranchising people of color, in terms of using marijuana and selling it. The fact that people of color are arrested at a higher rate for drug possession than their white counterparts is not a new issue, but a small group of rich, white businessmen running the majority of the legal marijuana industry is. Legal marijuana is already turning into a monopoly and not giving a fair chance to smaller growers, many of whom are people of color. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic only makes matters worse for these smaller growers; since marijuana is not legalized at the federal level they are unable to qualify for federal loans needed to keep their businesses open.

It is a very serious topic that Minhaj is qualified to talk about. Minhaj is a 34-year-old Muslim whose family originates from India, and the topics he discusses have an undeniable ‘stay woke’ tone to them. He earned a degree in political science from University of California, Davis before beginning his career as a comedian. His comedy consists of a lot of comparisons and references that will be best understood by Millennials close in age to Minhaj, but it also has a bit of edginess that will appeal to younger generations. But Minhaj still keeps things unusually light hearted while tackling serious issues. For example, towards the end of his latest episode he discusses a group of Cincinnati celebrities who have financial stakes in the legal marijuana industry, including former President William Howard Taft’s great great grand nephew Dudley Taft. He comments that Taft “looks like a guy who plays guitar in a band named after himself,” before showing that he does in fact play guitar as a member of the Dudley Taft band.

New episodes of “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj” are uploaded to Netflix every Sunday and to YouTube every subsequent Monday.

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Report: Michael Rosen

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Levi's Golf Wang-Inspired Anniversary

A noteworthy milestone of this year’s 501 Day has been the collaboration with Golf Wang, Tyler the Creator's fashion label.

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Having been in business for an astonishing 147 years, Levi’s Jeans celebrates each anniversary with their 501 Day, in homage of their signature 501 jeans. Each May, Levi’s hosts worldwide events and campaigns commemorating their legacy as the leading brand of jeans for over a century. A noteworthy milestone of this year’s 501 Day has been the collaboration with Golf Wang, Tyler the Creator's fashion label.

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Levi's and Golf Wang are two brands that complement each other well due to their respective mission statements. Levi’s 501 jeans embody self-expression and individuality, as their simplistic build makes them adaptable to customizations and redesign. Meanwhile, Golf Wang is a brand rooted in whimsicality, consisting of brightly colored hats, sports jerseys, and duffel bags emblazoned with random images such as chicken and waffles. Defying the hip hop fashion convention of glorifying luxury items, Tyler opts to imbue with his products with dark, absurdist humor.

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Together, Levi’s and Golf Wang have previewed a more vibrant iteration of the classic 501 jeans, one spangled with multi-colored polka dots as Golf Wang’s heart-and-flower logo adorns the back pocket. These rainbow jeans are truly a vivid, fantastical creation, and they are available for purchase on both of Levi’s and Gold Wang’s websites on now.

Photo credits:

https://hypebeast.com/2020/5/golf-wang-levis-tyler-the-creator-501-day-polka-dot

https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-hook/6099335/tyler-the-creator-golf-wang-style

Report: Nia Hunt

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QUAY X LIZZO FOR GOOD

You're going to need a pair of sunnies to shade your eyes from the shine of Quay's new collection.

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You're going to need a pair of sunnies to shade your eyes from the shine of Quay's new collection. The Australian sunglass company just dropped a new line in collaboration with, the only and only, Lizzo. With a spark and originality that only the artist herself could embody, the new shades will be the vibrant addition to your summer wardrobe that you’ve been craving.

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The singer, songwriter and performer took the world by storm with her fun, empowering, resilient music and energy, and these qualities become tangible as they are integrated into the new designs. Featuring colorful yet sophisticated styles, the collection has superstar written all over it.

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The Lizzo inspired line includes a variety of silhouettes such as aviators and cat eye, as well as sunglasses with metal brow bars and studded embellishments like mini stars and rhinestones. Some of the shades are also offered in a translucent rainbow finish. No matter what style you choose, every pair will help you shine a little bit brighter before you ever even hit the sun.

Probably the most significant reason why this new collection outshines that of its predecessors is the fact that proceeds from every purchase will be used towards donating meals all across the United States. In addition to teaming up with Lizzo, the Quay company has also partnered with Feeding America during this time of uncertainty. Each individual purchase is the equivalent of 100 meals that are distributed by local food banks.

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Besides the obvious charm and enthusiasm of the new collection, the ability to contribute meaningful meals and provide a sense of security to fellow Americans is what makes this line one of our favorites of the season. You will undoubtedly add a spark to your style when wearing these fun and eccentric shades while simultaneously making a difference in the lives of people who need it most.

All photo credit can be attributed to the Quay website.

Report: Alexandra Donnelly

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Different Decade, Different Look: 25 Years of Oprah

On May 25, 2011 our favorite talk show came to an end. The Oprah Winfrey Show is iconic in daytime tv history. This long running talk show ran through multiple decades, and as the decades changed so did Oprah’s style.

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On May 25, 2011 our favorite talk show came to an end. The Oprah Winfrey Show is iconic in daytime tv history. This long running talk show ran through multiple decades, and as the decades changed so did Oprah’s style. She was able to keep her looks fresh and new from the fist show which aired in 1986 to the last show which aired this week nine years ago. Let’s take a look at Oprah in each decade.

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On the very first Oprah Winfrey Show, she wore a red oversized suit and the notorious hairstyle of the 80’s. The large clip earrings that she’s weaning is considered vintage now but in the 80's that was the go to for any business woman.

Oprah is a total transformation since the 80’s. This simple black turtleneck and jeans look could work now but for the 90’s she was right on parr. Her big buckled belt and shorter teased hair just screams 90’s.

In the 2000’s it was in style to wear bright colors and in 2003, Oprah wore a tailored bright red suit with a matching bright red pump. Her simple, brushed back, sleek hair and bright suit was a really popular look in the early 2000’s as we see in multiple movies from those times.

The show ended in the beginning of her fourth decade as a talk show host. They had come a long way but on her very last show she kept it simple and classy with a little detail in this knee length baby pink dress. The 2010’s was all about keeping it classy and that's exactly what Oprah did for her last episode. Her hair is long straight and beautifully positioned as she waves goodbye to the most iconic talks show ever.

Report: Alycia Williams

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Savage X Summer

Savage X Fenty has dropped yet another beautiful collection! This summer-themed collection dropped on May 11th. It dropped along with a fabulous collection of sunglasses called #OffRecord. Hurry now to the #savagexfenty website to get yours!

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Who wouldn’t want to spend the summer in style? Savage X Fenty has come out with a new collection for this summer! The owner of the brand, the world-renowned singer Rihanna, also owns a makeup brand called Fenty beauty. Hence the name, Savage X Fenty. Among the summer pieces collection, she included a selection of sunglasses that have been a rage all over social media called Off Record. The Savage X brand is breaking boundaries, all thanks to Riri, along with her all-inclusive makeup brand.

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This collection displays more light and playful colors. There are comfort pieces as well as pieces that are sexy and can help boost more confidence amongst all the beautiful ladies in the world! It includes lingerie, a bra and pantie set, and even bathing suits. The bathing suits are what is the center of attention this time around. Usually, many bikinis are uncomfortable, but Savage X Fenty is known to make products that are not only sexy but also are comfortable to wear. You invoke the most beauty and confidence when you’re comfortable, and Rihanna seems to know its importance.

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Rihanna has been working tremendously hard to make the beauty and fashion industries inclusive of women of all shapes, sizes, and colors. She has done a phenomenal job by ensuring that all women feel confident when wearing any of her products. Merging her two brands has been the most beneficial decision. We all hope that Riri keeps putting out products because we cannot get enough!

Savage X Fenty Rihanna

Photo Credits: Pink set: @hausofjazzy

Orange set: @dearra

Lavender set: @badgalriri

#OffRecord: @badgalriri

Report: Soila Douce

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How TikTok Has Changed Music's Path To Success

More and more artists are turning to TikTok in hopes of gaining attention for their new music. Songs like "Savage" by Megan Thee Stallion and "Say So" by Doja Cat have shown the new platform's enormous power. What does TikTok's huge success mean for the music industry?

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In the first quarter of 2020 alone, the massive social media app TikTok had 315 million downloads. In total, the platform has upwards of 2 billion downloads. Needless to say, this short-form video app is experiencing impressive growth. And it only seems to be improving as more people are staying home amidst the pandemic and have nothing better to do than scroll through the app and learn the latest dance craze.

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A large part of the entertainment on TikTok is its music discovery. TikTok provides a kind of music-listening demo to its audience with its 15-60 second videos, and when a particular sound goes viral, it’s great news for the song’s artist. This is because virality on TikTok leads to a boost in streams on other platforms, such as Spotify and Apple Music. Take Arizona Zervas, with a jaw-dropping 2472% increase in Spotify monthly listeners since his breakout hit on TikTok, “Roxanne,” or Doja Cat, with the use of songs like “Say So” and “Cyber Sex” on the platform launching her into stardom. Roddy Rich’s “The Box,” another viral dance song, beat out Justin Bieber’s “Yummy” for the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, despite Bieber’s widely ridiculed instructions to fans on how to boost streams. These are only a few examples of huge success stories as a result of TikTok’s influence.

TikTok's "anybody can get famous, fast" narrative only fuels its trends as millions of people will learn the choreography to a catchy dance or lip sync to an upbeat song in the hopes of getting thousands of views. Many artists have noted this path of success and attempted to curate their songs specifically for TikTok virality. For example, Megan Thee Stallion started the “Captain Hook Challenge” herself by posting a choreographed dance to her page and encouraging others to learn it, while Drake’s “Toosie Slide” features explicit dance instructions within its lyrics and the support of already-famous influencer Toosie, making it an instant TikTok recipe for success.

It is clear that TikTok has had a huge impact on the music industry and the process of reaching fame. It almost seems that for a song to even compete with other current hits, TikTok virality is a crucial component. The answer to what song awaits TikTok fame next lies in the hands of its millions of users, and the creativity or whomever wishes to launch the next viral trend.

Report: Grace Carlos

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Mariah Carey Will Always Be My Fashionista

24 years ago, this week, “Always be my Baby” by Mariah Carey hit #1 on the Billboard Charts. Carey’s legendary vocals and blonde hair weren't the only things she's known for, especially in the 90’s. S.

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24 years ago, this week, “Always be my Baby” by Mariah Carey hit #1 on the Billboard Charts. Carey’s legendary vocals and blonde hair weren't the only things she's known for, especially in the 90’s. She was super trendy on and off the stage. A lot of these trend nods can be found in today's Fashion. Let's take a walk down Mariah's memory lane of style to highlight some of her simple yet sleek looks. Let's start with the “Always be my Baby” video. MC wears a dark denim matching set. Her top is a collared button up denim shirt, knotted in the front. The look is complete w/ a matching wash, denim cuffed pant and minimal jewelry/belly chain. I think we can all agree that the Denim craze that the 90's birthed will never go out of style.

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Mariah Carey was pictured at a Calvin Klein runway show wearing a simple yet chic outfit. Her white crop top, cropped black cardigan, plaid mini skirt and black tights, with silky straight hair was a popular look in the 90’s, especially after the movie “Clueless” made its debut in 1995. But this photo was taken in 1994, before “Clueless” came out. MC became a trendsetter with this sexy play on a school girl outfit. 1997 MTV Video Music Awards , Mariah Carey stepped out in this black two piece that could drop any jaw. This bantu top with spaghetti straps, with a waist high slit skirt, and black sandals is one of MC’s sexiest looks and arguably one of the best looks in the 90’s. She showed off her amazing figure but still kept it sexy and classic. This look became revolutionary as we still see celebrities like Normani and Kim Kardasian today wearing outfits that mirror this look.

These were just a few of Mariah’s best 90's Fashion moments, but there are so many more to choose from. I encourage you all to get into her Style archives when you have some down time! xx

Report: Alycia Williams

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University Graduation Ceremonies Are Going Virtual During the Pandemic

To support students, YouTube video hosting decided to hold the online graduation under the name of Dear Class of 2020

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This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of graduates were left without prom. To support students, YouTube video hosting decided to hold the online graduation under the name of Dear Class of 2020, which will be held June 6 live. The cancellation of an actual event will be offset by the stellar host cast. Former US President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama will be leading the ceremony. Mrs. Obama has been doing quite a lot to spotlight student life since leaving the White House. and has particularly taken advantage of streaming and social media platforms. She teamed up with media company called ATTN: for the series, which follows four college freshmen during their first year at college. The series aims to 'inspire every student in the U.S. to take charge of their future by completing their education past high school, whether at a professional training program, a community college, or a four-year college or university.'

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And that is not all! Singer Lady Gaga, former Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai will come to support the alumni and deliver a solemn speech. The organizers of the event did not forget about the after-party as well. Students will spectate the performances by Alicia Keys, Kelly Rowland, Kerry Washington, Chloe X Halle, Dude Perfect, The Try Guys and other celebrities. The entrance is free, everyone can join this virtual party. “Graduation is a tradition that students and families look forward to and with the current state of the world, YouTube is lending some inspiration in the form of a virtual commencement,” said Susanne Daniels, global head of content for YouTube.

Report: Olha Dzharyha

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Met Gala 2020: The Met Gala That Everyone Was Invited To

The 2020 Met Gala was the first of its kind to take place entirely on social media, and it was a shining example of solidarity during such an unprecedented and turbulent time.

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The 2020 Met Gala was the first of its kind to take place entirely on social media, and it was a shining example of solidarity during such an unprecedented and turbulent time. Reputed for its exalted status and exclusivity, this year's Met Gala’s transition to digital platforms resultantly transformed it into an event in which participation was no longer limited to the rich and famous.

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Online fashion enthusiasts, nicknamed “High Fashion Twitter,” invited people from all reaches of the internet to showcase their finest fashions for the big night with the hashtag #HFTMetGala2020. Surely enough, Twitter and Instagram were awash with a myriad of images, collages, illustrations, and mood boards of the outfits people would have worn to the Met Gala in person. The #HFTMetGala2020 was invented by the aerospace engineering student Aria Olson, who also implored participants to donate to the International Medical Corps.

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Further bridging the gap between celebrities and everyday fashionistas, the Metropolitan Museum of Art launched the viral #MetGalaChallenge, prompting everyone to recreate their favorite iconic looks from previous Met Gala. While someone of skating star Adam Rippon’s standing would expectedly have the means to wear Rihanna’s yellow Guo Pei cape dress from the 2015 Met Gala, it is rather impressive for the aforementioned creator of the #HFTMetGala2020 to flaunt a look from Thom Browne’s F/W collection. Even Rebeca, an assistant organizer of the online Met Gala, paid homage to modeling legend Twiggy with her display. One standout spectacle was the homemade recreation of Lady Gaga’s 2019 Met Gala gown made from pink bedsheets. Throughout the past decade social media has made the fashion industry’s elite more accessible to wider audiences, and now those very same online platforms are revealing the boundless creativity of those who likely have a future in the fashion industry themselves.

Photo credit: https://time.com/5831987/met-gala-2020/

Report: Nia Hunt

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Living Your Truth at Any Age

“Reject the notion that they’re disposable if they’re not a mini version of you,” said Union.

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Growing up we’re told not to do certain things or we’d get into trouble. We’re told not to smoke, drink, do drugs, etc. Then at a certain age, we’re supposed to have the sex talk with our parents and for most parents, this talk has always been supported by a man and a woman because that’s what they knew and for some, it can’t change.

Since most parents grew up in a time when same-sex couples were taboo, that’s what they instill in their children. Now that same-sex and multiple gender identities are more common and accepted now it can be a troubling topic for some, especially with younger children who ask questions. A lot of parents can be thrown off or displeased when these issues occur in their own home to an older child.

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Over the years many parents have become displeased to learn their own child identify with a different gender than what they’re born with or have romantic attractions for the same sex.

Television actress Gabrielle Union recently spoke about how she and her husband NBA star Dwayne Wade navigate having a ten-year-old son Zion who now identifies as a girl and goes by Zaya. Union recently went on The View and encouraged parents who have similar stages within their families to love, listen, and accept their child.

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“Reject the notion that they’re disposable if they’re not a mini version of you,” said Union.

She then goes on to express what every parent preaches to children of just being a good person and guiding them as best you can.

Every parent wants their children to be better than they were and they think that being gay or transgender means that they have failed their child in that mission.

“Creating more of you in every kind of way isn’t the solution. Allowing them to be who they are and guiding them to be loving, passionate, and open-minded.”

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Many people live their lives hidden from who they really are to please others and it doesn’t come out until after they’re gone leaving a family with regret that they didn’t fully accept it.

Every person no matter what age should be allowed to be who they are no matter what sexuality or gender identity and let it lead them to be a good person and doing more good.

Be the parent you needed at your child’s age, embrace them for who they are when they open up to you. Have open dialogue and build a stronger bond.

Report: Josephine Coiscou

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Selena Gomez's Makeup Brand is Hiring A 'Director of Social Impact' for Rare Beauty

Selena Gomez's makeup brand is hiring a 'director of social impact' for Rare Beauty

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Selena Gomez's makeup brand Rare Beauty is looking to hire a director of social impact. The position is about celebrating uniqueness on the company's social media and encouraging everyone to love themselves as they are.

Gomez has been candid and open about her own mental health struggles in the past. Rare Beauty's CEO Scott Friedman said, "When we first began discussing this project, she immediately focused on the ways she could use this brand to help people who are struggling.”

Friedman said the new position will help shape conversations around many of Gomez' aspirations and passions: beauty, self-acceptance, and mental health. He said, "The director of social impact will help us go beyond words and really take action to support mental health awareness. We can only do this if a leader is solely focused on this responsibility. This position is a vital part of holding our brand accountable, both internally and externally." Gomez said, "We had always planned on having someone lead this mission, but we felt that it was imperative to hire the best person for the job now.” More people than ever are discussing how their mental health is being affected during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Friedman added there's still a stigma around mental health, which the company want to help tackle. He said, "Many people are hesitant to openly talk about their struggles because it's seen as a weakness or flaw. In the beauty industry specifically, there's an expectation to look a certain way all the time and to alter your appearance in order to mirror celebrities, models, or influencers." The goal is for people to see their differences not as flaws, but rather as what makes people unique, special, and rare.

Gomez will be very involved in the hiring process. He said, "She has always placed the social purpose of this brand at the same level of priority as the products we are developing, so our new director of social impact will work closely with her to help bring these goals to life. As we gear up for our product launch later this year, I look forward to seeing the team rally around and execute on Selena's creativity and vision," he said. “It’s hard not to be inspired by her passion for helping others and we’ll continue to weave that into the DNA of Rare Beauty.”

Report: Amanda T. Lou

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BET Airs One Night Special To Raise Funds for Those Impacted by COVID-19

BET has established a COVID-19 Relief Fund in partnership with @unitedway to support and amplify relief efforts in our communities that have been severely impacted by the pandemic. Head to bet.com/donate for more info. #BETCovidRelief

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In an effort to provide support for racial disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic cable channel BET launched it’s BET COVID-19 Relief Effort. In partnership with NAACP, United World Wide, and numerous African American activists and businesses, BET hopes to provide crucial financial, educational, and emotional support needed by communities of color during this time. According to an updated preliminary report released by the CDC, African Americans make up approximately 30 percent of the total cases, even though only making up 13 percent of the US population. Specifically in NYC, according to a report made by NYC Health African Americans are being infected, hospitalized, and dying of the virus at a significantly higher rate than their white peers, making up 38 percent of the death as of April 18th, 2020, despite only making up approximately 24 percent of the city’s population.

As a part of these initiatives to further generate relief, BET aired their “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief” one- night special. Hosted by actors Anthony Anderson and Regina King, TV personality Terrence J, and singer Kelly Rowland. The special aired April 22nd featuring various special appearances and musical performances made by some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. This special is like no other that BET has ever aired because it was all recorded virtually from the celebrities’ homes.

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The special opened with a beautiful rendition of “I Smile”, performed by Kirk Franklin, Kelly Price, Fantasia, Jonathan McReynolds, Tyrese, Le’Andria Johnson, Melvin Crispell III, and more. Streaming from their homes comedians, singers, and actors try to spread what BET’s EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy Connie Orlando calls the “healing power of music, comedy, and entertainment” in order to educate viewers about what is happening to their community during these unprecedented times.

The donations made to the BET COVID-19 Relief Fund will allow United Way to provide resources to local organizations in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans, and Detroit, where communities have been struck hardest by the pandemic.

For more details, or to contribute to the fund, visit BET.com/COVID19.

ALL PHOTO CREDS: @BET on Instagram

Report: Lauren Tucker

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KylieSkin’s Newest Launch: Baby Pink Slides

It’s official, the KarJenners are at it again, but this time in foot wear.

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It’s official, the KarJenners are at it again, but this time in foot wear. Kylie Jenner has just recently announced her newest launch, KylieSkin x APL slides.

Who is APL? Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL), have been a long time fan of the KarJenners as they have sported their sneakers for years. Their sneakers are practical for the gym with their light weight and serious comfort, I should know, I own a pair or two! Not a fan of the gym, but still want to look like you flawlessly worked out? Well, you’re in luck because their style can’t be beat. The clean modern look they showcase with their on trend color schemes allow you to look your best, but also be that athletic self you want to show off. ;)

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So, what do these slides have that make them worth buying? First off, slides are a major trend this year, so if you buy them you’re already winning. But, the legendary blush pink that KylieSkin promotes could very well be their main attraction, and not to mention, they also have the comfort and style that APL is known for. Their strap is soft and flexible, and they even have “antimicrobial mesh footbeds” which literally massage your feet while you’re going for a stroll. Maximum comfort much? There definitely doesn’t seem to be a downside to these cute, yet casual baby pink slides.

They retail at $100, I know a bit expensive, but why not splurge for self care? You can find these babies on KylieSkin’s website: KylieSkin . Go ahead…click the link, I know you want them!

Photo Credits: Kylie Skin

Report: Kaitlin Gallagher

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Alicia Keys Halts Album Release and Shines The Light On Essential Workers

“I wrote this for all the people that work so hard and never hear the words Good Job. I believe in us though, I believe in the way we are showing up for each other and caring”

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The release of Alicia Keys’ 7th studio album, ALICIA, has been uncertain for a while. Like many other projects, the self-titled album has continuously been pushed back due to COVID-19. This pandemic has put a lot of things on standstill and has slowed down music releases. Initially, the album was supposed to complement Keys’ recent book, More Myself. The book is described as both an autobiography and a narrative documentary. More Myself has been promoted by Oprah Winfrey, as the book is being released on Winfrey’s book imprint. More Myself is supposed to capture the journey of self discovery, while the album is supposed to highlight her self discovery. While the book and the album did not release together as planned, Keys has still released some of the music on the album.

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The album, Alicia, has four songs that are currently available. Keys’ most recent release, “Good Job”, is a perfect song for this worldwide crisis. “I wrote this for all the people that work so hard and never hear the words Good Job. I believe in us though, I believe in the way we are showing up for each other and caring”, says Alicia Keys. Some artists believe that the attention should be away from the music right now, however songs with positive messages, like “Good Job”, are what helps get people through hard times. “Good Job” shows gratitude, respect, and recognition of the sacrifices being made on a daily basis by essential workers.

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Photo Credits: @aliciakeys

Report: Brionna Thompson

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Tee Rico by Lin-Manuel Miranda Partners With BCFA Amidst COVID 19 Relief Efforts

Tee Rico is known for giving a portion of its sales back to charity, events, and other programs. Lin has found a way to use Tee Rico to help those being hit the hardest during this global pandemic.

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Lin-Manuel Miranda is an amazing Broadway star and composer. Possibly his best known work has been on the beloved musical, Hamilton. In 2016 he opened his own merchandise shop called Tee Rico. A quick peruse through his online shop boasts numerous collections, a wide variety of apparel as well as other fun merch including: stickers, pins, and song lyric sheets. All of the designs have been created by artists that mean a lot to him. In addition, Lin’s family dog, Tobi, is hidden within each design.

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Tee Rico is known for giving a portion of its sales back to charity, events, and other programs. Lin has found a way to use Tee Rico to help those being hit the hardest during this global pandemic. That is where the Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BCFA) Fundraiser Collection for Theater Workers was born. BCFA started a fund to help those in the entertainment industry who are struggling during the COVID 19 pandemic and Lin decided to launch a new collection on his site with 100% of the proceeds going to this fund. This new collection includes T-shirts with a Lin-Manuel face-time logo as well as other long sleeve and hoodie options.

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Law and Order: Special Victims Unit star, Mariska Hargitay, shared a photo of herself wearing one of the hoodies and holding a Lin-Manuel Face-time stress ball to twitter last week, urging people who are able to donate to this important cause.

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Amidst the chaos of the world today it’s encouraging to see people banding together (while being socially distant), to support those in need. While production on all films, TV, and theater has temporarily halted some of those in the entertainment industry are very hard hit. That is why it is so important it is for BCFA, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mariska Hargitay and others to support this cause. I’m grateful this pandemic has brought out the good in many people, it gives us hope for humanity.

Report: Rebecca Vanderkooi


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Fenty's So Fetch

This outfit continues to prove that Rihanna’s style is both edgy and chic.

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In London on February second, the star Rihanna was caught rocking her new high end Fentys pumps. The name of the party was called “British Vogue and Tiffany & Co Celebrate Fashion and FIlm. The party took place at Annabel’s after the BAFTA awards. Rihanna arrived at 3:30 am which was seemingly fashionably late to the event in a pair of big crystal earrings by Alessandra Rich, a Shay black diamond heart ring, a dark Fenty ensemble, and black Fenty pumps.

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At her entrance, the party grew longer in the famous stars honor. The outfit that she wore, as seen in the pictures was an oversized black jersey hoodie, high waisted extra long palazzo pants in Jet Black satin, a Dior satin saddle bag, and on her feet was a pair of Fenty’s pointed black pumps in black. This outfit proved that Rihanna’s style is both edgy and chic. The outfit itself cost more then 1,000 dollars which is a bit on the expensive side for some. Although the outfit is somewhat pricey it is gorgeous nonetheless. This shows that Rih has an interesting style that is high in demand. The fashionista always makes a grand imprint within the fashion industry which is loved by many. Every young trendy woman should have a hot all black look, so shop Fenty for yours!

Report: Stacy Rattray


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Lady Gaga Shifts Focus During COVID-19 Crisis

"Thank you with all of my heart... for sharing in a global moment of kindness with each other, and spreading positive and loving intentions"- @ladygaga

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COVID-19 has delayed a lot of things, one being Lady Gaga’s new album, Chromatica. The album was supposed to come out on April 10, but has now been pushed back until further notice due to the pandemic. Chromatica will be Gaga’s sixth album, which will consist of sixteen songs. So far, “Stupid Love” is the only song available and it’s leaving fans anxious for the album release. Although the album release has temporarily been put on hold, Gaga has managed to keep herself busy during quarantine.

While in quarantine, Lady Gaga had time to work on another project called One World Together at Home. Gaga curated the One World Together at Home album that was released on April 18, which consists of 79 songs by some of music’s biggest artists. This album was organized by Global Citizen and the World Health Organization to raise money for COVID-19 relief. “Thank you with all of my heart... for sharing in a global moment of kindness with each other, and spreading positive and loving intentions”, says Lady Gaga after the One World Together at Home concert that also premiered April 18. The proceeds from the One World Together Album will be donated to Global Citizen to aid in COVID-19 relief.

Photo credits- Norbet Schoerner studio & Global Citizen

Report: Brionna Thompson


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One World: Together At Home

WHO and Gaga partnered with Global Citizen to create a series of stay-at-home concerts, called One World: Together At Home. The event was hosted by 3 of the most popular late-night hosts: Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and Stephen Colbert, and Idris Elba

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Lady Gaga took social distancing to the next level, by creating a free virtual concert to support frontline healthcare workers and the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO and Gaga partnered with Global Citizen to create a series of stay-at-home concerts, called One World: Together At Home. The event was hosted by 3 of the most popular late-night hosts: Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and Stephen Colbert, and featured Idris Elba, who was diagnosed with COVID-19, as well as healthcare workers fighting on the front line. Throughout the show, messages displayed from various artists and healthcare workers discussing the importance of staying at home and supporting each other.

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Hugh Evans, the co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen said, “Our hope for the special is that everyone will come away believing that we, as a shared humanity, can emerge from this moment forever grateful for the work of doctors, nurses, teachers, grocery store workers, and all those who are the backbone of our communities.” The show aired on April 18th and included 70 artists of different genres such as the Rolling Stones, John Legend, Celine Dion and Lizzo, Shawn Mendes, Camilla Cabello, Stevie Wonder, Lang Lang, Luis Fonsi, Shah Rukh Khan, Sheryl Crow, Jimmy Fallon, Heidi Kum, Hozier, Andrea Bocelli, Usher, Celine Dion, Hussain Al Jasmi, Charlie Puth, Eason Chan, Common, Adam Lambert, and Jennifer Lopez.

Report: Woo Jong Kim


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M.A.C x Selena Quintanilla La Reina Collection

M.A.C Cosmetics has released a new Selena Quintanilla inspired collection. Her token red lips and studded bra inspired the sequel to the M.A.C x Selena La Reina collection.

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M.A.C Cosmetics has released a new Selena Quintanilla inspired collection. Selena Quintanilla, an iconic singer who suffered a tragic death 25 years ago, is well known for more than just her voice and dance moves. Her token red lips and studded bra inspired the sequel to the M.A.C x Selena La Reina collection.

Queen of Cumbia, a rich red lipstick featured in the line is exactly what is needed for those trying to recreate Selena’s look. Other lipsticks include, Inolvidable, Selena Vive, and La Reina, which are more neutral tones. Selena is also known for her incredible glow which inspires the gold Extra Dimension Skinfinish.

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What would a M.A.C Collection be without a eyeshadow palette. This palette is named after the iconic line in the Selena movie that Jennifer Lopez who plays the singer says, “Me Siento ...Muy Excited.” This eight color pallete is a mix of pinks, reds, and sparkly neutrals. The collection also carries three lip glosses that are holographic and sparkly, one being named “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” one of the singers hit songs.

The sparkly studded bra is one of Selena’s main stamps and this collection includes a shiny black makeup bag that emulates the silhouette of the singer’s studded bra.

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This collection is made to have a bright, fun, and memorable face just like Selena Quintanilla. Check out MAC Cosmetics website to shop from the M.A.C x Selena Quintanilla La Reina Collection. (Photo sources: Official M.A.C Cosmetics Website)

Report: Alycia Williams


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Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty Foundation Will Launch With 48 Shades

Selena’s beauty brand will offer 48 different shades of foundation and concealer.

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Back in February 2020, Selena Gomez announced her beauty brand, Rare Beauty. In an interview for Interview Magazine, Gomez spilled the details on what fans can expect from the beauty brand.

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Gomez told Amy Schumer that that in its initial launch, the beauty brand will offer 48 different shades of foundation and concealer. She promises it will be “very clean and easy”. She wanted to launch a makeup with so many shades, because she wanted people to feel safe.

She said, “I wanted to start a conversation about how can you make yourself feel great," she continued. "It’s not necessarily about needing these things to make yourself feel beautiful. People of my generation have all this pressure to look a certain way, and I wanted to make a line that took away a bit of that pressure.”

Gomez wants to make sure that their campaigns casts “real people” to promote Rare Beauty products. In a statement, the brand said, “Rare Beauty celebrates individualism and highlights what makes each of us unique. Rare Beauty aims to find beauty in what society considers 'imperfect' and build a community that shapes conversations around beauty, self-acceptance, and mental health."

Report: Amanda Lou


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