Month: June 2016

  • What’s Happening At 9 On Instagram?

    What’s Happening At 9 On Instagram?

    What’s Happening At 9 On Instagram?

    If you’ve been on Instagram lately you may have noticed the new at 9 trend.  The trend is an exposure game that can be very dangerous.

    Fox News reports that a nude Snapchat video was to blame for a teenage girl’s suicide.  Her family informed police that she decided to kill herself after her friends recorded a video of her taking a shower and then posted it on Snapchat.

    What’s Happening At 9 On Instagram?

    The #9oclockshowdown may seem innocent but it has the potential to humiliate people.  At 9:00, participants post a person they have a crush on but by 12:00 they are advised to expose an ex.  Exposing an ex no longer means sharing their secrets.  Exposing an ex in 2016 means posting an image of the individual that will most likely embarrass them.

    Some people think that they are doing no harm by exposing an ex-love interest.  This is especially true when a person believes that the individual they are exposing broke their heart.  Before you start on your journey for revenge, you might as well dig two graves.

    Don’t waste your words on people who deserve your silence.  Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is nothing at all.  Every choice you make in life has consequences so choose carefully.  Be prepared to pay the price.  

    The best revenge is moving on.  Get over it! Do not give someone the satisfaction of watching you suffer.  The person you are attempting to harm will be happy to know that you are still thinking about them if they see you posting old images.  

    Remember, the darkest nights produce the brightest stars.  Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle.  No beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart.

  • Hakeem From Empire Father

    Remember people you cannot believe everything you read on the internet.  The world wide web is filled with lies, myths and fairy tales! There’s a new death hoax everyday.  Despite the rumors, rapper Jay-Z is not Bryshere Y. Gray’s father.  Many of us were introduced to Gray thanks to the first season of the Empire TV show.


    Gray never discusses his father.  On the contrary, the talented rapper never hesitates to mention his mother.  He has been seen with her on the red carpet and is currently saving his money to buy her a house.
    Hakeem From Empire Father
    Similar to Jay-Z, Bryshere has worked with Timbaland to create classic music.  The producer is responsible for the show’s amazing music.  Timbaland made an appearance on the show and performed with Hakeem.  
    Hakeem and Timbo invaded Leviticus, Lucious’ club, interrupting a performance by Pitbull and Jamal.  The scene reminded us of Jay-Z’s song Takeover.  Although the track was produced by Kanye West, it represents the way Timbaland and Jay-Z took over the industry with hits like Big Pimpin.
    Rolling Stone reports that Jay-Z and Timbaland recently won a sample trial for the song Big Pimpin.  An Egyptian composer is responsible for the flute hook on the track.  Timbaland sampled the song “Khosara, Khosara” by Baligh Hamdi.  The award-winning producer thought that the track was public domain.  The judge ultimately ruled in Timbaland and Jay-Z’s favor.

  • Lil Wayne Seizure Again 2016

    TMZ reports that Lil Wayne suffered a seizure during a flight on his private jet.  The award-winning rapper was on his way to Los Angeles from Milwaukee.  His plane was forced to land.  According to XXL, the rapper refused medical attention and got back on his jet.


    His plane took off again and the rapper, whose real name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., suffered a second seizure.  The jet then landed in Omaha, Nebraska and he was transported to the hospital.
    Lil Wayne Seizure Again 2016
    The rapper dealt with the same symptoms back in 2012 and 2013.  The symptoms seem to arise when the rapper is on an airplane.  The rapper has explained that he has epilepsy, a disease involving recurring unprovoked seizures.
    For adults, the most common causes of seizures include genetic factors, brain disease and head trauma.  Epileptic seizures can generally be prevented if a person understands what’s triggering them. 
    During the rapper’s Sunday night performance in Milaukee, he revealed his plans to retire.  It’s hard to believe that he’s been in the game for 20 years.  We hope Tunechi gets the medical attention he needs.  Let’s take a look at the rapper’s top 10 Instagram pics:
    10. When he buys his daughter a red Range Rover.
    Happy bday Munchkin!!
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Nov 29, 2015 at 9:12am PST

    9. When he’s mean muggin’.
    My slime Denard Robinson
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Jun 19, 2015 at 8:48pm PDT

    8. When he takes Santa selfies.
    3 Ho’s
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Dec 25, 2015 at 10:04am PST

    7. When he hits the stage with Drake.
    Who run it?? Mula Babeeeee!
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Aug 30, 2015 at 9:32pm PDT

    6. When he wears pink cat shirts.
    I always wanted a bish w kat eyes…settled for a shirt.
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on May 9, 2016 at 4:36am PDT

    5. When he lets Drizzy know how he feels.
    Happy 420 mane!
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Apr 20, 2015 at 1:49pm PDT

    4. When he’s all giggles.
    Hahahahahha
    A video posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Aug 26, 2015 at 1:18pm PDT

    3. When he’s with the little ones.
    Long hair don’t kare!
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Apr 14, 2015 at 7:12pm PDT

    2. When he reunites with Mannie Fresh.
    Go DJ!!!
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Mar 28, 2015 at 7:43pm PDT

    1. When Red Bull gives him wings.
    Wooooop
    A photo posted by Lil Wayne (@liltunechi) on Mar 26, 2015 at 4:15pm PDT

  • D Smith And Betty Idol, Singer, Songwriter And Producer

    Love and Hip Hop Atlanta stars D Smith and Betty Idol ensure that there’s never a dull moment! Let’s go through some of the unforgettable moments they’ve had this season.

    D Smith And Betty Idol

    The drama surrounding the two #LHHATL characters makes you forget that they’re both actually talented.  Idol recently announced that her new single, Pluto, will be available on iTunes on June 17, 2016.

    Betty Idol Pluto

    When Bambi meets Idol and Smith at K. Michelle’s party, there is a high level of tension.  The shade gets thrown to say the least.  Smith attacks Tammy for something Waka said about transgenders.

    In the following video Ariane and Idol speak about their meeting at the studio.  The two also discuss some of the confrontations Smith and Idol have had this season.

    According to Wet Paint, D. and Tammy Rivera had a heated argument that led D. to bang on a podium in frustration.  Antney and Smith have disagreement about her contributions to the transgender community.

    Who can forget D.’s impersonation of Waka Flocka’s mom, Deb Antney.  The Grammy-award-winning producer met up with Betty, Ariane and Mimi.  When she was asked about her meeting with Deb she dropped her voice Shaquille O’Neal-low to deliver an amazing impression of Waka’s mother.

  • What Does The Silver Ribbon Represent?

    According to The New York Times, many members of the Broadway community showed their support for the victims of the shooting in Orlando by wearing silver ribbons at the Tony Awards.


    While black ribbons are being used as a symbol of mourning, silver ribbons are traditionally used as a symbol for children with disabilities.  USA Today explains that some guest were seen wearing orange pins for gun violence awareness.
    What Does The Silver Ribbon Represent?

    Entertainers arrived at the Boston Theater wearing silver ribbons created by designer William Ivey Long.  The Veteran Broadway costume designer explained that they wanted to open their arms and show support for the victims.

    The color is emotional, calming and sensitive.  It symbolizes a time of reflection and a change of direction.  The color illuminates the way forward and was the perfect choice considering the nation’s current state.
    Jimi Hendrix explains, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power then the world will know peace.” Mateen shot patrons at a gay bar because he didn’t agree with their lifestyle.  It was his way of showing how powerful he was.
    At the end of the day, everyone loses.  Mateen is now dead and gay people will not let his actions have any impact on their lifestyle choices.  ISIS will never have enough power to substantially impact people’s freedom of choice.  The root of all evil is the abuse of power.

  • Jussie Smollett Responds To The Orlando Night Club Shooting

    Early Sunday morning, Americans woke up to the sad news that a mass shooting in Orlando, Florida, had taken the lives of more than 50 people and left more than 50 others injured.

    The shooting has been determined to be the deadliest mass shooting in United States history. Empire star Jussie Smollett responded to the Orlando shooting in an Instagram post and it’s very touching. The shooting occurred at Pulse, a popular LGBTQ nightclub located in the Florida city.

    Jussie Smollett Yazz Good People

    Smollett posted a response early Sunday morning. He wrote in the caption:

    “We the people have the power to make a change. We the people MUST make that change. With every slur we throw about so carelessly and every turned cheek we possess… These types of crimes will continue. When will we all realize that we are sisters and brothers in this struggle? Together.”

    In the post image itself, Smollett writes:

    “I’m sitting here…desperately searching for words. Something useful or inspiring to say. Something that doesn’t sound cliche or redundant. Forgive me. I haven’t found them yet but my love and prayers are with my people and the families of my people. As pained as I am by this vicious attack…Nothing compares to the pain you are feeling now.”

    Read the entire post below.

    We the people have the power to make a change. We the people MUST make that change. With every slur we throw about so carelessly and every turned cheek we possess… These types of crimes will continue. When will we all realize that we are sisters and brothers in this struggle? Together. -JS #PrayForOrlando #PrayForHumanity #Pulse
    A photo posted by Jussie Smollett (@jussiesmollett) on Jun 12, 2016 at 9:43am PDT

  • What Are The ‘Empire’ Stars Doing This Summer? (So Far)

    Summer is in full force and so is rerun season. Sure, there are some summer shows to indulge in, but can they really replace Empire in our hearts? The answer is no.

    We can try, but the distraction will only last so long. Luckily or unluckily (depends on how much you like summer), September is a long time away. It’s a time for vacations, fun, and Empire could be shooting Season 3 at any minute.

    Jussie Smollett Beach

    Let’s check out what the Empire stars are up to this summer.

    Taraji P. Henson

    The actress has been traveling around Africa throughout her break from the show.

    I like #giraffes #safari #SouthAfrica 🇿🇦😩😂😂😂😳💋💋💋
    A video posted by taraji p henson (@tarajiphenson) on Jun 10, 2016 at 11:30am PDT

    This was a VERY emotional trip!!! I really can not put into words my experience today!!! The HOPE that these babies gave ME?!?! I was so sad and could NOT stop crying because I DO NOT understand why poverty exist. 😡😡😡. I JUST CAN NOT WRAP MY MIND AROUND IT!!! There is enough for EVERY HUMAN ON THIS EARTH!!! I was so sad and couldn’t stop crying in #Kliptown #SkyFoundation and at #KeepAchildAlive. God bless your pure heart @aliciakeys. I am so honored to be an ambassador for your beautiful #keepachildalivefoundation When in #KlipTown a young man in the program asked me why I was crying I said ” My heart hurts for the ppl here”. He told me to stop crying because everything is going to be alright and proceeded to sing ” Everything’s gon be alright” and everyone joined in on the song. I couldn’t believe it. The spirit of the African ppl CAN NOT AND WILL NOT BE BROKEN!!! Now that is HOPE like I have NEVER SEEN IN MY LIFE. I am forever a changed woman!!! God Bless SOUTH AFRICA!!! 💋💋💋🇿🇦
    A photo posted by taraji p henson (@tarajiphenson) on Jun 8, 2016 at 11:43pm PDT

    Jussie Smollett

    The actor is playing Langston Hughes in a new film called Marshall. Check out him looking dapper in the throwback suit.

    Had to go butt faced to become the great #LangstonHughes in the upcoming film #Marshall. Thank you @reggiehudlin for the opportunity. It’s been a dream. 🙏🏿
    A photo posted by Jussie Smollett (@jussiesmollett) on Jun 8, 2016 at 6:36pm PDT

    Serayah

    The actress/singer is nominated for a Teen Choice Award for Choice Scene Stealer.

    Vote today !!! #choicetvscenestealer link in my bio 💋💋❤️❤️❤️
    A video posted by SERAYAH (@serayah) on Jun 10, 2016 at 8:36am PDT

    Terrence Howard 

    The actor is also visiting South Africa.

  • How Did Omar Mateen Die?

    How Did Omar Mateen Die?

    According to the Los Angeles Times, Omar Mateen was killed by law enforcement.  Orlando police shot the gunman after a three-hour siege.
    The gunman called 911 prior to the attack, expressing his loyalty to ISIS.  He also mentioned the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing during the phone call.  Mateen used an assault rifle and a pistol to shoot people in the Pulse nightclub at 2 AM on Sunday morning.

    Upon entering the club, the gunman took numerous club goers hostage.  30 hostages were rescued.  50 people were killed and 53 people were wounded.

    How Did Omar Mateen Die?

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims.  The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said.  I wish I could climb up to Heaven and give each victim a hug.

    The shooter was investigated by federally authorities in the past yet the investigations were closed.  ISIS has taken credit for the attack.  The shooter had a Florida security officer license along with a state firearm license.

    The shooting occurred at Pulse nightclub, located at 1912 S. Orange Ave.  Pulse is about 4 miles away from Plaza Live where Christina Grimmie was shot and killed 24 hours earlier.
    How Did Omar Mateen Die?
    The Telegraph reports that the gunman is from Port St. Lucie, Florida.  According to Neighborhoodscout.com, Orlando is one of the 100 most dangerous cities in the U.S.

  • Black Art Matters $500 Scholarship

    Check out this post for an update on the scholarship.  The deadline for this year’s scholarship is December 1, 2016.  Next semesters scholarship submissions will be accepted starting December 2, 2016.  Good luck!

    At EmpireBBK, we value education and those in need.  School is expensive and it can be extremely difficult for families to make ends meet.  The current state of our economy is forcing institutions to limit their generosity in scholarships, so the average student takes on more debt than the generation before.

    African American Scholarship
    In an effort to make things easier for students, we are pleased to be offering a $500 scholarship to individuals who are currently attending or plan on attending college or graduate school.

    Essay Topic

    • In order to apply, applicants must submit a 400+ word essay on the following topic:
      • How has the Empire TV show contributed to today’s society? Analyze a painting by Kehinde Wiley and explain its significance.  Finally, what will you do to improve the African American art community? 
    • The essay must be typed and include a bibliography.
    • Out of the pool of applicants, we will select five finalists.  We will then post the five finalists’ essays on the site.
    • The essay can be sent via email: support@empirebbk.com
    • Deadline for entries: The last day of September, the scholarship is offered once a year

    Tell A Friend To Tell A Friend

    Not enough African American students apply for scholarships.  Companies around the world donate money for scholarships to blacks, but a large amount of the money is returned because of a lack of awareness.
    Please share this information with your family and friends.  If you are a college student or getting ready to become one, these funds can be very useful.

  • Kendall Jenner Lob Haircut 2016 Plus Infographic

    Scroll to the end of this post for the infographic.

    Kendall Jenner used Snapchat to share her new hairstyle.  The 20-year-old posted a picture to show off her new lob (long bob).  The model has reached yet another beauty milestone.
    Kendall Jenner Lob Haircut 2016
    Her new hairstyle proves that she can pull off any look imaginable.  Vanity Fair explains that Kendall is known for her long locks of dark hair.  The summer is here and if you have long hair you do care.  It’s too hot!
    Summer is the absolute best time to try a new hairstyle.  Follow Kendall’s lead and chop it off.  You need a low maintenance cut to beat the summer heat! 
    Similar to her sister, Kim Kardashian, when Jenner tries a new hairstyle, the world stops.  Fans freaked out in response to the sneak peak the supermodel posted on Snapchat.
    This isn’t the first time we’ve seen Jenner change her hairstyle to survive the weather.  She often wears her hair in a fishtail braid, a great choice for a hot summer day.  
    The model is one of the few people on the planet with the ability to achieve the perfect ponytail.  The ponytail is another smart choice for the summer.  You don’t want your hair sticking to the back of your neck and a ponytail ensures that you won’t have that problem.
    Check out the following infographic with more of the supermodel’s amazing hairstyles:
    Kendall Jenner Hairstyles Infographic

    Share this Image On Your Site

    Please include attribution to EmpireBooBooKitty.com with this graphic.

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