A Juneteenth Celebration
Juneteenth, this year was such a lively celebration amongst the black community.
Juneteenth this year was such a lively celebration amongst the black community. Throughout this time, social distancing was still in effect. Verzuz TV has taken many artists on Instagram Live and made them go head to head in musical battles. On Juneteenth, Alicia Keys and John Legend were chosen to perform.
For this Versus battle, both competitors were in the same room, singing live and playing their own piano accompaniment to their hits on Instagram Live. They also were singing each other’s background vocals, fond memories, and sending happy Juneteenth wishes. Various viewers stated that it really doesn’t get more smooth-piano relaxing than this. The world is still reeling from the coronavirus pandemic. People are taking to the streets to protest police brutality against Black people, a heavily emotional battle. Juneteenth, is also the day to commemorate the end of slavery in America. All of these factors made Friday's battle on Instagram more of a call for unity. Each artist played hits from "Diary" to "Ordinary People." They also played new music with Legend premiering "Never Break" and Keys premiering "Perfect Way to Die."
"I think we need a lot of hope right now," Keys said as she played "Empire State of Mind.” John Legend stated, "We're happy to celebrate freedom and the fight for more freedom, I've been so inspired watching people march in this street playing this song ... It means so much that people play this song fighting to be more free.” To be honest, John Legend dancing to his music was the best part of the battle.
Photo Credits: @verzuztv
Report: Soila Douce (@soila.xx)
112 Verzuz Jagged Edge
Music lovers have all been waiting for is set to happen, 112 versus Jagged Edge
We have received countless Verzuz battles, from Erykah Badu vs Jill Scott to Teddy Riley vs Baby Face. Little did fans know that we’d get a new one. Just a few days ago, Swizz Beats and Timbaland teased fans on Instagram Live with the idea of having two famous R&B/Hip Hop groups come head to head. Which two groups you ask? Music lovers have all been waiting for is set to happen as 112 versus Jagged Edge has been confirmed to battle on Memorial Day at 8pm EST. Fans are excited and debate as to which group has what it takes to win.The 90’s era has always been a feel good vibe, so why not have it on Memorial day?
As you know, Jermaine Dupri signed Jagged Edge to So So Def Records in the late 90’s. Some hits include, “Where The Party At?,” “Let’s Get Married,” “Promise,” and much more. 112 was discovered by Diddy who was then signed by his label, Bad Boy Records. They produced hits such as “Cupid,” “Peaches & Cream,” “Dance with me,” and much more; there’s no telling who will win in this epic battle. Although 112 is no longer a group, some fans are worried if they would all attend the Verzuz battle. It was then confirmed by Daron (former member of 112), that he and Q will not participate due to a legal issue. Could this affect 112 negatively? Guess we have to wait to find out! So pull out your dancing shoes and popcorn because it’s on ladies and gentlemen!
Due to COVID-19, we are all focused on finding various forms of entertainment. Whether it be Quarantine Radio hosted by Tory Lanez, Live-streamed concerts or Verzuz created by Swizz Beats and Timbaland. This battle is a great way to keep fans on their feet and have a great time while practicing social distancing.
Are you tuning in? Make sure to watch on Instagram live @theofficial112 or @official_je.
Photo Credits:Instagram: Verzuztv
Report: Jessica Tamay
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.