Prequel "Mufasa" comes to theaters this holiday season in December 2024

Mufasa comes to theaters on December 20, 2024 

The Ensemble Cast of Mufasa (2024) 

 

Who remembers the Lion King film?, the Disney classic story debuted 30 years ago in 1994. They are celebrating their 30th anniversary this past June. I remember fans of all ages were so excited to see this incredible musical and story of life, love, royalty in the animal kingdom, music, and family. Mufasa is the prequel to the Lion King franchise a generational Disney story of the Lion King family. It will focus on the journey of Mufasa (Simba’s father) how he came to be the king, his bond with his brother, “Scar”, and his eventual journey to become the “Lion King”. The film will star an ensemble cast again but with a few new additional replacements this time. We will miss the great, admirable, renaissance man on stage, television, and film, James Earl Jones who just passed late summer on September 9, 2024 he lent his voice to the original character, Mufasa in the film. His legacy has impacted all great actors and actresses now and will continue to aspire more for generations to come. 

Replacing the lead and younger Mufasa will be breakout star and new heartthrob, Aaron Stone Pierre. He has been passed the torch and will play the lead and you have seen Aaron in “Genius’s: MLK/X (2024” , “Netflix’s Rebel Ridge” (2024), “Old” (2021), “Foe” , “Brother” (2022), “The Little Mermaid” (2023), and “The Gaze”. Grammy award winner Donald Glover will reprise his role as the adult Simba. Beyonce Knowles-Carter will reprise her role as the adult Nala. Now this little surprise I was not expecting but Beyonce’s oldest daughter, Blue Ivy Carter will star as Kiara, Simba and Nala’s little lion cub in her first film role with her mom and her cast. Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros (“Hannibal”, “Another Round”, “Casino Royale”, and “Fantastic Beasts”), John Kani as Rafiki has been featured in ("Murder Mystery", " Seal Team", "What If", and "The Lion King"), Seth Rogen ("Knocked Up", "Superbad", "Sausage Party","Neighbors", "The Fabelmans") as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon ("Billy on the Street", "Bros", "Lion King", "Parks and Recreation"), " , Tiffany Boone as Sarabi ("Big Cigar","The Chi", "The Midnight Sky", "Nine Perfect Strangers"), Braelyn Rankins ("Doom Patrol", "Take Note", "8-BIT Christmas") as " "The Young Cub Mufasa", Keith David ("Hazbin Hotel", "Rick & Morty", "Greenleaf",  "The Princess and the Frog", " Grey's Anatomy")as Masego, Preston Nyman ("Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom, "Spooked House", "Crooked House", and "Penelope")  as Zazu, Thandiwe “Thandie” Newton ( "Good Deeds”, “Norbit”, “The Pursuit of Happyness”, “Westworld”, “Mission Impossible 2”, “all the Old Knives”) Thandie will play Eshe, Anika Noni Rose (“Dreamgirls”, “Princess and the Frog”, “Everything Everything”, “Outlaw Johnny Black”, “Injustice”, “Caroline”, “Raisin in the Sun” the Musical” )Anika will play “Afia”, Kelvin Harrison, Jr. ("Chevalier", "Genius: MLK/X", ) as Scar. The remaining cast members also include Lennie James ( “Walking Dead”, “Line of Duty”, “Critical”, “Low Winter Sun”), Thuso Mbedu (“The Underground Railroad” television series, “The Woman King”, “Is Thunzi”, “Castlevania: Nocturne”), Shiela Atim (“The Woman King”, “The Underground Railroad”, “Bruised”, “All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt”, “Pale Horse”), Folake Olowfuyeku (“Bob Hearts Abishola”, “Female Fight Club”, “Death Race 2050”, “Hellbenders”), Abdul Salis (“Love Actually”, “Flyboys”, “Animal”, “Sahara”. “National Theater Live: Present laughter”), Dominique Jennings ("Spawn 2", "Sunset Beach", "Low down dirty shame", "Ice Age 2", "Die Hard 2") , and Kagiso Lediga (“Catching Feelings”, “Wizard”,and “Sono”).

Another all-star cast for a new generation of fans to see this new twist on this story of the Lion King, Mufasa this a prequel that will focus on the original journey of becoming the Lion King. I think this glimpse into the beginning of how this came to be is great for fans. Every great film has a backstory and it gives people a chance to see how things fall into place. All of the Disney fans will enjoy knowing how everything came to exist for the Lion King and their kingdom. There was a story in place for the characters to get to before Simba eventually became king and the story of his father is fitting and appropriate for fans of all ages. I hope you all take your loved ones and friends to this film for the holidays. For more information on Disney, the Lion King franchise visit http://www.disney.com , www.lionking.com.

Bringing Wickedly Goodness-Wicked the Musical comes to theaters Thanksgiving 2024

I have not seen this fabulous Broadway play yet and I am glad because as a New Yorker sometimes wehave to save really good things in the city for a special day and moment. I cannot wait to get a chance to see both the Broadway musical and movie coming out this Fall. Wicked a story or spin off based off the fairy tale and movie, “Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum. The movie was made into a live adaptation in 1939 and then later went on to have multiple renditions and variations like “The Wiz” which is also on Broadway and became a film in 1978. Wicked is a prequel to the Wizard of Oz a story focused on the Wicked Witch of the West and the Witch of the North. Wicked which debuted on Broadway on October 30, 2003 in New York at Gershwin theater and previews began in early October. Now fast forward 21 years later the musical gets quite the makeover and a new update. This movie has been getting so much promotion and will not be surprised that children and adults of all ages will be excited to see this story. 

If you grew up watching “The Wizard of Oz” you will appreciate the musical, the movie, and this epic story of these characters. I just watched the Wizard of Oz again as an adult last week and it really did take me back to my childhood the magic, the mystery, the friendship of the characters, and the hope it gives to people watching it. It gives you a new found sense of hope, the possibility of dreams coming true, and of course the reminder of family, community, and friends support. 

I believe the Wicked will do the same for their viewers. The cast of “Wicked” this two part series stars, Ariana Grande international pop star, Disney child star as Glinda the Good Witch and Broadway, film, and television actress, Cynthia Erivo you may know Cynthia from “Harriet”(2019), “Genius: Aretha Franklin the television series”, “Pinocchio”, “Bad Times at the El Royale” “The Outsiders”and “The Color Purple” (2005) the musical. Cynthia stars as Elphaba the younger version of “The Wicked Witch of the West”. Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar ( “Bridgerton”, “Heartstopper”, “Jurassic World Rebirth”, “Broadchurch” ), Ethan Slater as Boq (“Wicked Part 2”(2025), Spongebob Musical Live, Redheads Anonymous, and Fosse Verdon), Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh as “Madame Morrible” ( “Crazy Rich Asians”, “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon”, “Everything Everywhere”, “Tomorrow Never Dies” ), Jeff Goldblum ( Independence Day, “Jurassic World Dominion”) as The Wizard, Peter Dinklage as Dr. Dillamand (“Game of Thrones”, “Pixels”, “The Hunger Games”) , Marissa Bode (“Little Shops of Horrors”, “Peter Pan”, “Mary Poppins”), Keala Settle (“The Greatest Showman”, “Murder in Provence”, “Rent”, “All My Life”) , Bowen Yang (“Fire Island”, “Saturday Night Live”, “Dicks: the Musical”, “The Monkey King”). 

 This film is going to make all of the Broadway and theater attendees feel nostalgia, and make them want to belt out in the movie theater I believe everyone who has seen it in person will be very much excited to see this film. Wicked has been getting so much attention even Ulta Beauty, AMC Theaters, and Starbucks has been up on their game excited about the products. With that being said many of you will have plenty of souvenirs and mementos to carry on with this incredible film. 

 Visit http://www.wickedthemusical.com for more information.

Katy Perry will be the recipient of the 2024 VMA Video Vanguard Awards 9.11.24

 

Katy Perry's new album, "143" will be released on September 20, 2024 

 

Katy's Discography this will be Katy's 7th album

48 million albums sold 135 million singles downloaded 115 billion streams

I was so ecstatic and excited when I saw this announcement and thought you know what yeah she deserves this way too much. Have you seen her videos the creative chanteuse’s videos since she made her debut in the music industry? Many of you do not know that “Katy Perry” the artist her real name is actually Katheryn Hudson but because we had a “Kate Hudson” in the entertainment industry she had to change her last name and stage name before she made her debut to the public she changed her stage name from Kate Hudson while she was actually a Christian artist growing up. A devout Christian I respect that she puts her religious beliefs into her music as well. 

Her name was later changed when she became, Katy Perry. Never holding back though when it comes to her videos. I believe she’s one of those artists who can write you an anthem, a theme, a breakthrough song, and an inspirational hit that will change your life. Believe it or not this little “NYC mamacita” listens to Katy Perry. Yes, I do and I have been pumped up by her songs many days when I have a job interview, a

meeting with staff, a big epic night out with friends, a birthday celebration too. Katy can be there for you too when you have stage freight or any fears. I think her music has a way of transcending all backgrounds and experiences. We all have moments of doubt, fear, we may be confused, or uncertain.

 Three songs out of Katy Perry’s amazing musical catalog “Rise”, “Firework” and “Roar” I have felt the most connected to the lyrics. 

 There’s a part of the song, “Rise” by Katy Perry that says, “I won't just survive Oh, you will see me thrive Can't write my story I'm beyond the archetype I won't just conform No matter how you shake my core 'Cause my roots, they run deep”. 

 She doesn’t just contain pop lyrics but there is a deep spiritual message that connects to her Christian roots of faith and her upbringing. You won’t see me fail or fall you’ll see me not only overcome obstacles in life but achieve great success. 

As I mentioned she started out as a Christian artist before making into the mainstream media. Her lyrics have a way of captivating and surprising you when you get down to the deeper meaning behind it. However, I believe every person deserves to feel positivity and joy too to know what is meant for them is meant for them. Katy’s lyrics have given fans world confidence, strength, and motivation. She is a true inspiration and has achieved such great success far beyond the music and entertainment industry. Katy’s music has transformed many of her fan’s lives including mine. She has had the chance to connect with her fans one by one and new artists on American Idol as a host she was on American Idol between 2018-2024 her last and seventh season wrapped up earlier the beginning of this year. She loved and brought so much energy, life, quirkiness, and more to the audience, the audition process, and more.  

 Now it’s time for Katy to go on a world tour, release her new music, her new album, “143” will debut this fall her first single, “It’s a woman’s world” could not have come at a more perfect time with the new DNC nomination accepted by Madam Vice-President, Kamala Harris on Thursday, August 22, 2024 This will be a great anthem especially with our new female presidential candidate and DNC nominee for 2024. 

 It could not be a better time for her new music and single to debut on the radio and streaming. “143” will be released on September 20th, 2024 after Katy receives her VMA Vanguard award. 

 A little more backstory about Katy that makes her more than qualified for this award is according to Billboard Music and Universal Music Group-Canada 115 billion streams worldwide, 48 million albums sold, 143 million tracks downloaded. She is 1 of 12 artists to have surpassed 100 million certified units. According to RIAA Katy Perry her albums have all featured singles between 2008-2017 have gone platinum and diamond. “Firework”, “Dark Horse” featuring Juicy J, “Roar”, “California Gurls” ft. Snoop Dogg, “E.T.” featuring Kanye West, “I kissed a girl” went 6x platinum, and stayed on the charts for 23 weeks with her debut single at number 1 for 7 weeks, The One that got away peaked at number 3, Last Friday (TGIF) stayed on the charts for 24 weeks, Teenage Dream reached number 1 with 33 weeks on the Billboard charts, and Part of Me made it to number 1 in 2012 staying 22 weeks that year. 2017 her album “Witness” went 2x platinum featuring “Chained to the Rhythm” with Skip Marley on the track. Katy clearly has some magic in her veins, her angels are guiding her,

and allowing her to slay the music charts. She deserves this nomination and this award with all of her accomplishments. She is the recipient of the 2012 Trevor Projects Hero Award, 2013 appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill ambassador, Human Rights campaign national equality award in 2017, received the award of Courage in 2018, she's on the board of the Bragg makers and Impossible foods, an active investor in technology for fresh produce to reduce food waste. She also a founder of a non-alcoholic beverage De Soi. Is there anything this woman cannot do….I say “Nope”. Katy is also the wife of Orlando Bloom and mom to three-year-old, Daisy Dove Bloom. She shows all of the women you can do far more than you even imagine. Congratulations Katy on this groundbreaking accomplishment. For more information visit http://www.mtv.com, www.katyperry.com, and www.universalmusic.com

40th Anniversary of the MTV Video Music Awards Live 09.11.2024

Watch the 40th Anniversary of the Video Music Awards LIVE from New York City September 11, 2024 at at 8pm.

Congratulations MTV on 40 years of honoring the Video Music Awards and hope for many more decades ahead in music videos, music television programming. 

 

How did 4 decades go by so fast? MTV’s VMA 40th anniversary is here!!!! How did 40 years go by so fast and we are ready to celebrate a huge milestone. This a celebration of one of our favorite mediums, the video which used to be a family function celebration. Families would gather around in the 1980s people would sit down in their living rooms to get ready for a world premiere. I am an MTV Kid grew up watching way too much VH-1, BET, and yes MTV I can still recall some of my favorite music videos like TLC’s “Ain’t too proud to beg”, “Waterfalls”, Janet Jackson’s “If”, “Come back to me”, “Again”, “Alright”, the Foo Fighters videos for “My Hero”, Fiona Apple’s “Criminal” or Lisa Loeb’s “You Say”, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, “Billie Jean”, Evanescence “Bring me to life”, or Missy Elliot’s “Get your freak on”, or Busta Rhymes “Put your hands where my eyes can see”. 

I can go on and on artists I still love and their amazing achievements in their music videos. I can recall how MTV went through amazing transformations in 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and of course now in the 2020s still evolving and growing. Thousands of videos produced by insane talented geniuses who were flying, filming, editing, and staying up into the wee hours of the day and night at the studio or production set. They had a vision, they heard the song, the director connected with the artists, the songwriters, the costume designers. They worked tirelessly on achieving that vision and bringing to life. Making sure it would be perfection, it would make sense, and it would tell a visual story along with the melodic beats slow or fast of the song. 

 I am sure some of you remember that show “Behind the Video” on MTV where they actually showed you how the video production was put together from the beginning of the thought process all of the way to the final cut of the video and before it’s world premiere. I believe every artist, director, their crew you deserve a chance to show your artistry through your videos and the message you want to present to the world. I still get excited about artists videos and I am amazed by the creativity and the inspiration of a song. I see videos in the 2020s becoming even more advanced with their approach whether want to go grand with the video or they want to go simplistic showing a video in a simple all white room, a piano, and the woman or man pouring out their heart, and belting their song out. 

It’s all about the artist, the director, and the crew’s vision and interpretation of the song, plus the viewer. How will the viewer see their favorite artist. So with that in mind I believe all of us can respect how much effort goes into music videos and how the music business is so complex and why it is still a booming business. Its all about the artist wanting to connect with their fans, have their music, and stories told in a grand way. So with that in mind I want to congratulate MTV on it’s 43rd birthday and it’s 40 years of streaming, showcasing all of our favorite musicians, musicians we are still learning about their videos and what they bring to the table. To the next decade ahead and beyond. For more information on the 40th Video Music Awards tune in and watch September 11, 2024 to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the 911 attacks, Patriots day, and the celebration of 4 decades of music, music television, MTV, and music video history. Visit http://www.mtv.com for more information.

30th anniversary of VAWA Act

 

I told a friend of mine about this when I discovered it about 5 years ago. I was working as an administrative assistant for a property management company/non-profit organization. I have worked for a couple of real estate law firms too. I am glad I discovered the VAWA Act reviewing some leasing contracts at work. I am glad I came across it. I didn’t realize one day one of my friends would need it. It's one piece of advice I want every woman especially to have in her back pocket at all times no matter where you are and where you come from.  It’s something sometimes we often do not take seriously-your safety at all times home, work, and in out in the world. Your safety is the most important thing in life. Especially for women in the case of situations that are truly out of our control. Your health overall comes first, we know family comes first, but your safety should always be the main priority too. I want to thank our 46th president, Joseph Robinette Biden who just stepped down a few weeks ago from the 2024 campaign the third president to do so in a very long period of time this has not happened since the late 1960s. I realized how much he has accomplished during his time as senator, vice-president, and president during his 50 plus year career. You realize your appreciation for someone even more when you realize you’re going to lose them after a while. Isn’t it at the moments when we realize someone’s value even more when we are about to lose them. I think America certainly would agree with that however we also are aware our health, our energy, our sanity, our peace of mind comes first. Especially for such a large responsibility in office at the highest office in our country. 

 If this was a monarchy and let’s say we had King Joseph of the United States if Madam Vice-President, Kamala Harris had been “his daughter” she would be next in line for the throne. That’s how it works in monarchies. In our country the United States of America the closest thing we have to any form of a monarchy would be the people we have in our highest positions of office in our country. 

 The announcement of Biden stepping down from the 2024 election was a huge defining moment for our country. 

We often don’t even realize the significance until we actually sit back and watch how everything unfolds. His debate against Trump in June of 2024 this summer was moment where we saw a realization about our president he was battling exhaustion, his voice wasn’t as boisterous, and energetic. It was not quite the same as we normally see him in speeches, press conferences, photos, and more. The significant change of his debate performance threw everyone for a loop. We were all surprised and stunned that his team had let him go out and perform during that time. It was vastly evident that he was unwell and would need to take some time to relax and recuperate. July 17th, 2024 was the announcement that Biden would have to step down from his campaign. Meaning that of course in every hierarchy the next person in line would have to be his successor to complete the goal that he had in mind. His ultimate goal was to become president again and complete a second term. Kamala coming in as not only as his vice-president but a woman with an impressive, vastly remarkable background in her career. She would be next in line so to speak. She would be able to complete the 2024 election. We cannot diminish his huge accomplishments in these last 3 years as president and his 50 year plus career. He may not be our president in 2025 but he will continue to still be a part of the legacy, the history of our country, and he will still be able to give his opinion, his values, his efforts from a far. He may not be in the spotlight as much after 2025 but he still has a significant role to all of us and will never be forgotten what he has accomplished in his administration, with Barack Obama as his vice-president, and our country over all is historical and phenomenal. He came in during a time our country was in a huge war zone and complex. 

 That is another reason why I wanted to discuss this topic because it not only hits home for me and for other females and males. It is a topic that should be recognized because he was one of the people to sign the bill back in 1994. I always mention this to one of my dear friends after learning about it working as a contractor and administrative assistant in real estate and real estate law in the past. The VAWA Act is one we don’t pay attention to until it comes time and life hits us all in the face hard. I always tell my friends to use this to your advantage it is one that is life changing and can give you ultimate power and control over your life and autonomy as a woman. For a man the same applies but you can also consider the health and the respect of the women or men that you date, marry, and raise one day. You choose to respectful, sane, polite, courteous, and not cause harm to any woman or man in their home and abuse their privacy. 

 What does the VAWA Act state it states how any woman or man living in an apartment or home has the right to safety, privacy, no stalking, harassment, or abuse. I have heard stories and seen situations that are truly unfair to innocent people who just want to go about their lives. It is harmful, it is embarrassing, humiliating, and frustrating. In times where the person can be way too persistent and want to cause harm to another individual. I believe with the VAWA Act this is groundbreaking because it really does allow women, men, and children to see you deserve privacy at all costs. There should never be any intrusion at all especially when you say “No” the first time. I applaud Joe Biden who was the Senator at the time of Delaware, Patricia Shroeder, and former president, Bill Clinton who signed the VAWA Act at the time. On September 13, 1994 the act officially went into effect. I once thank them for this and believe every young person really should read up on this if they anyone

has been mistreated, violated, or harmed while they were dating, married, or had an ex-significant other who may have caused an issue. Please pass this information along. Visit http://www.hud.gov/vawa for more information. 

“Dear Future Wifey” Podcast changing, inspiring love lives and keeping it LIT"

 It is officially springtime in the Northern Hemisphere part of the world the weather is finally getting warmer, humid, and hotter feeling like spring and summertime now. People are ready to get out there (we are free no more being trapped inside unless you want to be then do your thing), people are ready to start dating, continue dating andbuilding their relationships if they are happy and want to continue on with that one too. Now that everyone is back outside in 2024 I am sure all of you want to get back to dating and relationships the old-fashioned way. Not just the digital way of online swiping right and left. You want that real romantic connection too. 

I hope everyone on this podcast, who watches finds their person, shows others how to find their person too. Dedicate this song, "Find your love" by Drake to all of the viewers of the show, the crew, host, and guests who have been featured and will go on later too. 

I hope all of the viewers of this podcast who watch find their person. 

Host of one of the top YouTube podcasts on relationships and marriages, Dear Future Wifey podcast featuring host and filmmaker, Laterras R. Whitfield. 

One person who really was instrumental in helping me look atrelationships and also marriages was this gentlemen who created this amazing podcast. 

He’s an award-winning YouTube podcaster in the past 4 years and 8 seasons since the spring of 2020. He has been opening doors for people when it comes to their brands, their relationships, marriages, created a safe place of healing and discussion for everyone who comes across to sit on his yellow couch or chair with his crew. I came across his podcast during the pandemic actually which was pretty refreshing to find I may have been looking up something on marriages, future husbands, and building positive relationships at the time. I came right on in during season 2 of his podcast I believe and I subscribed right away. What drew me into the show the first time was the title. 

How transparent and honest this man was something I think all of us can appreciate. You don’t find that many people who can be that real and authentic about themselves right away. It takes comfort and familiarity to gain from an audience. Laterras R. Whitfield did not hold back he grabbed all of us by the heartstrings with his story of how his marriage of close to 10 years crumbled and fell during a time when he needed healing, support, and understanding. He went to his family, his friends, his faith, the people in his church community, but then he turned on that camera and instantly began the healing journey inside his studio with all of us. What really got me was the title of the podcast. I am sure the ladies all swooned “Dear Future Wifey”. This man is looking for his next wife, he wants to heal, and write letters to his future bride and wife to show her the journey he went on to get through what can be a stressful, trying, tedious, transformative, and heartbreaking process for people. 

I immediately identified as a child of divorce. (My parents separated when I was 7 in 1993 and divorced officially in 1995). They both later were in long-term relationships and one of them (my father) remarried years later. So I believe a positive relationship can come later. I understand his story a bit and could relate to this journey it’s not easy at all. At the same time. I am an optimist, a hopeless romantic who believes and has seen great things happen in relationships to people when they are with the right person. When you are the with the right person you see connections form and bonds build that you wouldn’t even imagine. As cheesy and cliché as it sounds yes I believe there is a right person for you. It takes time you have to go through 2, 5, or maybe even 10 different dating/relationship or marriage experiences to get it right. Now I am no expert on the dating/relationship industry or world. I am not this is why I found this podcast to gain more insight and knowledge. I wanted to apply what I learned from my own relationships, dating situations, or “situationships” to get to a deeper level, an emotional level, a spiritual level, and gain more knowledge on how to correct wrongs to make a relationship happy, loving, fulfilling, and strong. I also just happened to start my “Dear Future Husband” journey. January 9, 2018 the beginning of 2018 way….before I even knew or came across this podcast. 

It was even created yet. I began a journey of writing to my future husband. A journal a love letter of sorts to him where I discussed what was happening in my life at that time. I promised myself that a few days before our wedding or our wedding night I would give him this journal as a token of love. Something tangible to see that I really waited, prayed, and knew that we would eventually find and end up together at some point. So when I found out that a male was doing the same especially after heartbreak. I started mine a year after splitting with an ex-boyfriend. I knew I am on to something let me hold on to this little book and keep it. I can say between 2018 and 2024 I have gained knowledge, I have been through about 5 or 6 boyfriends (one who I rekindled a relationship with too). 

So I can say the journal does work it keeps you motivated and pumped up about meeting this person at some point. Whether if you are in a relationship, dating, or single. I can say every man I learned a lesson and especially after watching this podcast since 2020 it helped me heal, it helped me look for a lot of clues, traits, and really listen to what the men in my life at that time were saying to me. 

There has been growth and knowledge obtained from all of those moments. I thank Laterras and the entire 8 seasons of guests he has had gave me hope, inspiration, joy, had me crying to happy tears, and I took some notes too. Laterras keeps it all the way LIT (Living Intentionally and Transparently) he is honest and so are his guests on every single episode. He has been able to use his filmmaking and playwriting experience to bring his celebrity friends and people who he sees online or even in person who love his podcast too. He has featured singers, actors, YouTube influencers, marriage counselors, pastors, priests, people who are just beginning dating, who may be celibate, who may have been married 50 plus years, and more. He knows how to connect with his guests to gain insight and also include God as an additional member on the show. He says God is my publicist which I love because God guides him to the right person to be featured on his show. 

    I hope that all of you will watch this podcast he’s not just an award-winning YouTube podcast host but he also is a huge advocate for helping children in the foster care system. I loved this part of his podcast because you see different elements of his personality and what motivates him too. He created Kingdom Royale in the fall of 2018 a luxury foster care home for boys inspired by his nephew and adopted son that will transform, shape, groom, and rebuild the lives of children who have been in the foster care system. 

This program and his mission is already changing people’s journeys and stories. So when you watch his podcast it’s not just his mission on finding his new lady love in the future but you see he’s building an empire to get somewhere that will shape the lives and build positive communities too. 

 Laterras, congratulations on 8 seasons and 4 years on this amazing creation and podcast. I hope I get a chance to come down to one of your live events, trips, and sit to watch. You have given so much to everyone around the globe with your podcast. So please feel free to check it out too. I listed my favorite top 12 podcast episodes and I hope you will watch too. I hope this helps everyone out there in their dating, relationship season, engagement season and that God willing that you will find your future husband or future wife very soon and will have a lifetime of love and happiness too. 

For more information on Laterras R. Whitfield’s podcast and his organization for young men in the foster care system visit http://www.kingdomroyale.com and check out his award winning podcast https://www.dearfuturewifey.com/

Alicia Keys her story comes to Broadway Hell's Kitchen debuts this spring previews March'24 Opening April

  

Photos of the cast of "Hells Kitchen" (2024)

"A Keys" and Usher at 2024 Apple Music Halftime show for KC Chiefs & 49ers this year (February 2024)

 

I have had the amazing pleasure of seeing many of my favorite celebrities in person. This is one person who is very special to me when it comes to your heroes, aspirations. I started following Alicia Keys her career when I was about 14 years old when she first came out with “Fallin'” her debut single from her debut album, “Songs in A Minor” in June 2001. Fast forward I had a chance to see this woman perform about 5 times and see her in person. The most gracious, down to earth, cool, sweet, and personable. Her energy is soothing, calming like a warm cup of soup or tea. She calms you down instantly when you meet her. I on the other hand was a nervous wreck when I saw her in person. I was too excited because I just wanted an autograph of course but I had a chance to take a photo of her one I will cherish, then I saw her a few years later at an event at the Brooklyn Museum with her now husband, “Swizz Beats” performing for an event. One of my favorite recording artists I have had the pleasure of seeing her perform, meeting her in person a few times will be adding another notch on her belt. She’s not only writing/producing a Broadway play this time but the play is loosely based on her life. I have been a fan since my high school days when she first debuted on the musical scene summer of 2001. 

 

 

Of course I had to include some of my favorite songs that still mean so much today....20 years later...

 I wore the Alicia Keys braids when I was 14 and 15 years old, yes I did, I sang her song “If I ain’t got you” at my 2004 talent show in high school at Cathedral. I have seen her perform about 3 or 4 times at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, I have seen her with her husband at the Brooklyn Museum and Stage 48 for an event in Hell’s Kitchen (nice Segway ha-ha) so now I can discuss her newest creation and project based on her life growing up. Alicia Keys is a multiple Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, pianist, television producer, actress, author, and now will add her second Broadway play to her producing credentials and theater background. Her first initial play that she was a producer on was “Stick Fly” in 2011. I remember vividly because I was a young intern working for Black Enterprise Magazine in the television broadcast department. 

So when you get to see what one of your heroes upclose face to face. You’re of course crazy nervous, can’t believe this is happening in real life, and lastly don’t want the moment to end. This is one moment I will never forget it was a week before my birthday I remember because we had to be at a downtown Soho production editing house house to set up the entire set and also watch the interview of one of my correspondents too. I was working two days a week during this time and was working in the television broadcast department with my other 9 team members.

 We had a small office on fifth avenue and 19th street before they relocated to an office on Madison Avenue. I remember just feeling like it doesn’t getting any better than this I wanted a photo of her and I

so bad. This was actually the 3rd time I had seen her in person. So yes I can honestly say meeting one of my heroes in person several times. It humbles you, it makes you appreciate your life, it also solidifies that if I can make it out of humble beginnings in a tough neighborhood in the eighties and nineties. We all can get out of any situation and surpass through too. I think of her song, “The Gospel” I had a chance to see her perform the song live at an event at Stage 48 in midtown New York this was summer 2015 and I am a big advocate for song lyrics. Song lyrics tell a story, they set the mood in the listeners mind, you envision what the artist is trying to convey and tell too. Her lyrics “We are all God’s children growing up in the ghetto…Mama cooked a stew…Daddy did the yellin’”. Keys is phenomenal at a scene setter she can set a scene in a song and you’re right there with her in that moment of her life. I will not be surprised when I attend her first autobiographical Broadway play. This play is very much an embodiment of Alicia Keys’s early, teen/adolescent years. This is before the record deal, before the fame, before the Grammys, before the All State commercials (Yes I recognize her voice), The Levi’s jeans campaign. Alicia was just a little girl with big dreams in a big diverse city that had some clever tricks up its sleeve. The most beautiful thing about this moment is we all get to witness a full circle moment for this star. She literally grew up down the street from all of the Broadway theaters adjacent to Hell’s Kitchen. 

She can walk back to her roots and then also go up the street and see where she’s heading. That’s a powerful moment of your life to witness because you realize “I made it, I actually did it my dream is in front of me”. She’s incredibly down to earth, she can have a good time, and isn’t afraid to let loose show her fun, free spirit, and soulful side. I would say if I had to compare her to a food her spirit is like a hot cup of soup and slice of apple pie. Alicia’s spirit, energy is comforting, warming, and sustains you. It feeds your soul and spirit. Her lyrics can hit you in different ways, make you think, and feel what she wants to convey to her listeners. I have been a fan since I was 14 so for me I have had a chance to see the true transition from young recording artist to savvy business woman and multi-hyphenated artist. I think when you grow with a person you’re even more proud of them because you’ve seen their transition from one place in their life to the next. You see where they are going to in the future. So how did a young girl who was raised by a single mother and a father who was present when he chooses to be available. 

How did this little girl end up becoming one of the biggest R&B/Soul recording artists who has appeared in television, films, plays, commercials, and more. I often heard her say her mother is her rock. She was the one who really made sure that Alicia was going to use her gifts and invested in her dreams. She enrolled Alicia into piano lessons as a little girl, she appeared and auditioned for television shows growing up. Alicia did appear on “The Cosby Show”, she practiced studying all of the great classical musicians and of course has a wide range of music under her belt. You see the influence of hip-hop, rap, classical weaved and woven into all of her music. When you hear “Songs in A Minor” (2001), “Diary of Alicia Keys”(2003), “Superwoman” (2007), “Element of Freedom”(2009), “Girl on Fire” (2012), “Here” (2016), and even her holiday album, "Alicia" (2019), “Santa Baby” (November 2022). You know that where her musical influence is coming from jazz, soul, funk, R&B, classical music, a variety of artists who have given her that fire, that energy, and passion in her music. 

I hear influences of many classic artists in her music. Alicia’s music will be infused into her Broadway play telling the story of young Ali who is growing up in Manhattan Plaza in New York City. All of Alicia’s music will be used in all scenes including new songs she has composed. 

 The actress playing “Ali” will be…Maleah Joi Moon will be featured as Alicia or “Ali” in the nation wide debut of Hells Kitchen. Small productions of the show opened in November of 2023 and it will officially open in March this spring 2024. Cast will also include Chris Lee as “Knuck”, Kecia Lewis as Miss Lisa Jane, Davis as Brandon Victor Dixon, and Shoshana Bean as “Jersey”. Previews will begin March 28, 

Now in 2024 Where Alicia is now?….A Broadway producer, singer, songwriter, actress, beauty icon, 15-time Grammy winner,  just made her debut at the 2024 NFL Superbowl  performing along with Usher singing their hit song, “My Boo”. I notice now with these superstars expanding as artists they have now hit a period of reinvention with their branding, and business savviness. Alicia has crossover appeal which has brought her to not take her music to the next level with Netflix’s “Bridgerton” their past seasons her teaming up with Shonda Rhimes and her production crew to present the vision of Queen Charlotte and the television series in 2023. 

 

I have to buy this book again loved this one her story you can easily see that her story was going to be one for the mainstage. 

Check out Soulcare by Alicia Keys 

 

Also, the new pop divas have all now are diving into the beauty industries. Alicia has a new beauty product “SoulCare” has been featured all over social media for the past few months. She even included her tips on her website the makeup that she wore during the superbowl. Alicia has always been an advocate for presenting and showing a more natural look. She may wear some light make up while performing but she keeps her daily makeup look more simple, clean, and modern and interviews with the public. You may see her appear more glamorous for tours and concerts or if she’s on film. She’s always promoted women feeling natural, comfortable in their born skin, and also authenticity. She also always presents herself as a woman with a warm, loving, embracing presence. Wanting people to feel positivity, love, calmness, and feeling powerful and at ease in their souls. I believe with this new branding and venture you see Keys shows us yes women can have it all. Millennial women are showing this current generation that we can have it all and then some today. It takes time, practice, knowing your vision, and yourself. You must follow your dream and make it a reality and live in it. For more information on Alicia Keys please visit www.hellskitchen.com, www.soulcare.com, and www.aliciakeys.com

Didn't want to forget to include the love of her lives, multiplatinum producer/musician, Harvard Business graduate, Swizz Beats and her two sons, Egypt, 13 and Genesis, 10