Let's Celebrate Music: 20 and 30 Year Music Anniversaries in 2025

 

Artists celebrating 20 Years in the Music Industry Special Anniversaries: (Became solo artist or debuted their first album in 2005) These artists are celebrating 20 years since their debut albums first came out in 2005. This is an incredible list because all of these recording artists have gone on to have major success not only in music but in television, film, and business ventures. All of them were either discovered by another recording artist or they were in a group, or just had natural born talent. All of these musicians have continued to reinvent themselves staying current with the times, taking risks in music, and expanding themselves sown different roads in their careers. One thing they all have in common they believed in themselves, they had faith, their honored their calling to become artists and musicians. They were fearless and they have made a place for themselves. I wanted to honor all of these musicians because all of them I have grown up literally with them. I saw the beginning and witnessed their careers, the milestones, maybe some pitfalls, but also saw them bounce back stronger and have determination. I have seen 6 out of 12 artists in person I have met them directly, seen them perform, or have some connection to them. I have been blessed to have witness this and I am honored to write about their 20 or 30 year anniversary in a tough, dynamic, demanding, and transformative business in the music, recording, and entertainment industries. Here’s my list of recording artist celebrating their anniversaries in 2025. Let’s go in chronological order by their debut album when it first hit stores, streaming online and made it to the radios everywhere. 

 

 

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 1. Number 1 is Omarion “O” Grandberry lead singer of the R&B/Pop group, B2K which stand for boys of the millennium he made his debut in 2001 with B2K in the group and his career advanced with the success and touring of the Millennium and Scream tours. He toured with Mario, Bow Wow, Chris Brown, and others. Then he reunited with his group recently 2 years ago to do it again with an all-star line-up including R&B, Pop, Hip-Hop artists. Omarion has grown in leaps and bounds as an artist. Born November 12, 1984 in Inglewood, California and raised mainly by his mother. He always was destined for success and a spot in the entertainment industry. Omarion’s career and transition to solo success was a smooth ride in terms of album sales but it was not always easy behind the scenes in terms of finding the right musical home, record label he went to a few different labels switching over until he found the right fit. He wanted more freedom as a recording artist, no restrictions, just making authentic music that came from his personal experiences, the producers he wanted to work with directly, and his own vision and foresight. Omarion will celebrate 20 years in the music industry as a solo artist his album debuted on February 22, 2005 and 23 years since his debut album with B2K. He has gone on to have success with multiple albums since then “O”, “21”, “FaceOff”, “Care Package 1, 2, AND 3”, “CP4”,,“The Awakening”, “The Kinection”, “Full Circle Sonic Book One and Two”, “SexSonics”. All of his albums have gone on for major success and collaborations. Omarion also came out with his book, “Unbothered: the power of Joy” came out last year. Omarion is currently on tour for the Millennium Tour with Trey Songz, Mario, Ying Yang Twins, Plies, Pleasure P, and Nivea right now this weekend. 

Bobby Valentino's album debuted on Disturbing the Peace April 26th, 2005 

Bobby is on tour for The Millennium Tour 20th Anniversary

 2. Robert Marcel Wilson who is that oh that’s “Bobby Valentino” born February 27th, 1980 in Jackson, Mississippi and later migrated over to Atlanta, Georgia was originally in a group called “Mista” and grew up as a child and teenager listening to R&B classics, Soul, and Oldies from “The Isley Brothers” (one of my favorites too), Jodeci, Tony, Toni, Tone. Bobby Valentino had his first record “Blackberry Molasses” with his group Mistsa that debuted in 1996. The song did receive some attention and plays on the radio but they disbanded a year later. Wilson decided to pursue a solo career and winded up on the Disturbing the Peace label with Christopher “Ludacris. Bobby Valentino debuted with “Slow Down” at Number 8 on the top 100 charts, has gone on to have hits with “Tell Me” ft Lil Wayne, “Mrs. Officer” ft Lil’ Wayne, and “Pimpin’ all over the world” ft. Ludacris, and “Anonymous” ft. Timbaland. Bobby Valentino is on tour right now celebrating his 20th anniversary and featured on the Millennium Tour. 

Bluestars the Miami Boys,  Pretty Ricky's album debuted on May 24, 2005 

3. OMG it’s Pretty Ricky is what they call them (lol!) I had to but Pretty Ricky bringing that Miami Heat is celebrating 20 years since they debuted their first album on May 24, 2005 “Bluestars” featuring hit songs, “Grind with Me”, “On the Hotline”, and “Your Body” were all featured on the top 20 Billboard Charts in 2005 and stayed on the charts for 20 -22 weeks for half of the year. You still hear their songs playing on the radio today. Major success for each group member, Marcus Cooper “Pleasure P”, Spectacular Smith, Diamond “Baby Blue” Smith, and Corey “Slick ‘Em” Mathis. Pretty Ricky they’re on tour right now for the Millennium Tour. All of them have gone on to dive into different business ventures. Pleasure P went solo with his successful album, “Introducing Marcus Cooper” with hits “Boyfriend#2” and “Under”. Spectacular Smith has gone on to become the CEO of Adwizar Inc. and became the president of Mula Music Group. He has even been featured in Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the top five celebrities in music and tech in 2018 and was featured on Love & Hip Hop: Miami. Go see Pretty Ricky on tour as they celebrate they celebrate their 20th anniversary. 

 4. Quatro goes to Keyshia Cole the Oakland girl (born October 18, 1981) with the golden soulful voice. Keyshia’s talent natural born, no groups, just a young woman with a talent that’s undeniable. She was discovered and crossed paths with the late, Tupac Shakur when she was a teenager. She later went on to record a song with Tupac using a sample of his voice featured in “Play your cards right”. Then she ended up being discovered to Alicia Keys mentor and business partner, Kerry “Krucial” Brothers when she came out with her first singles, “I just want it to be over” which Alicia Keys helped produce and write the song. “I changed my mind” feat. Kanye West, “Should’ve Cheated” were hit songs. Keyshia has gone on to become a television personality, star in her own film which was on Lifetime Network telling her autobiography, “Keyshia Cole this is my story” and has appeared in “Charming”, “Why did I get married too”, and Love & Hip Hop”. Keyshia has gone on to be nominated four times by the Grammys for “Heaven Sent”, “Let it Go”, received an ASCAP award for her songwriting of her songs. Nominated for her duet with fellow R&B singer, Monica “Trust”. Also received a RIAA platinum certification Just like You”. Keyshia is going on tour for her 20th anniversary stay tuned for dates and check Ticketmaster for the her tour.  visit http://www.keyshiacoleofficial.com 

Just gotta make it debuted on July 26, 2005 summer of 05 featuring numerous hits.

 

 

 5. Number 5 goes to multiplatinum, R&B Prince (King in the making) “Trigga” Tremaine “Trey Songz” Neverson born on November 28, 1984 in St. Petersburg, VA debuted his first album, “Just Gotta Make It” on July 29, 2005 summer of 2005. Trey’s first song, “Just gotta make it” debuted on 106th and Park and MTV stations globally. His album was released featuring hit songs, “Girl Tonite”, “Gotta Go Right Now”. All of these hits made the top 100 hit songs on the Billboard charts. Trey has gone on to release 12 albums, wrote over 50 plus songs, and remember some songs have not been released or are in his musical catalogue as well. Trey has had so much success with his music also as an artist being featured on or collaborated with Jim Jones, Fabolous, Toni Braxton, Chris Brown, Jill Scott, and Drake. He continues to reinvent himself and expand himself making sure to take current with the times. He’s an incredible songwriter one thing I respect about him is he gives insight into the male point of view. From a romantic perspective and even his point of view as an artist. You can hear the incredible growth since he debuted 20 years ago. I would love to see him expand more as a recording artist, actor, and songwriter. He can teach the next generation coming up on perfecting that craft, the image as an artist.

 6. Number 6 goes to Young Jeezy (Jay Wayne Jenkins) born September 28, 1977 in Columbia, South Carolina whose album debuted also summer of 2005 on July 26, 2005 “Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101”. Hits included were “Soul Survivor” featuring Akon was a hit, “And then what” ft Mannie Fresh, and “My Hood”. His album debuted at Number 2 on the Top 100 Billboard Charts. I still listen to “Soul Survivor” for my own motivation when you need that boost in dark times you need that extra hit to keep you going. Jeezy has worked with one of the artist featured on this list, Rihanna on her hit song “Hard”, had a huge hit with the remix of “Love in this Club” Part 1 by Usher, “Leave You Alone” ft Ne-Yo , collaborated with R. Kelly on “Go Getta”, and he was featured on with Christina Milian on her “Say I” single for her debut album. Jeezy just announced he will also be doing a 20th Anniversary tour to celebrate his first album. Billboard just announced it yesterday on April 24, 2025 that he will be featured with a live orchestra behind him while he performs hits from his first album and others.

 7. Lucky Seven goes to “Bad Gal RiRi” or I like to call her the "Billionaire Bajan Babe" discovered by both Jay-Z and his wife, Beyonce they both were put on early to Rihanna’s incredible talent born February 20, 1988 in the beautiful island of Barbados. This woman has taken her career to extreme heights . The hazel-green eyed beauty started out as a little girl singing loud and proud. Driving her neighbors crazy as she was singing around the house. She was discovered first and appeared on “All my children” in 2006 this was a great way for the R&B/Pop diva to make her way into the business realm. She has expanded fashion, the beauty, and fragrance industry. I love to tell my Rihanna story I have two stories. One I was in Italy summer 2005 on vacation and I was in a European internet café in Florence, Italy with one of my best friends (she’s a fan too). I see MTV Tres is on and I see a young girl long light brown hair with her dancers in a colorful top and jeans singing “Pon de Replay”. “Pon de Replay” debuted in July of 2005 and her first album, “Music of the Sun” came out later that summer August 29, 2005. I knew there’s something special about this girl. Her energy she had a sparkle in her eye and just this confidence exuding from her. She was a go getter just knew how to work the camera and the crowd. My second story is when I was working as an intern at Universal Music Records when I heard “Umbrella” at Island Def Jam/Roc A Fella records it was February 2007 and I heard the drums and Jay-Z spit his bars on the introduction. I knew it was a hit. There was something special in the air during that time. You can feel it she was on her way to success. She is another artist who reinvents her image, she knows who she is she won’t pigeonhole herself to just one genre. She has the insight and attitude I am going to do Pop, R&B, Soul, Rock & Roll, and Dance. She knows how to expand herself and try new things with music. She is 8 albums in and tons of collaborations with fellow labelmate, NE-YO, also Bryson Tiller, DJ Khaled, Justin Timberlake, Paul McCartney, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and many others. She has become a multi-hyphenate adding , actress, entrepreneur, mother of two sons, and fragrance muse to her resume inspiring perfumers as well. I don’t think we have seen the best I believe her best work is still coming. Fans are still in anticipation of her next 9th album. Some speculate “R”, “Rated R” and other possible names for them to title. This one is going to be one of her best she has so much to talk about. We all received a treat for her single of “Lift Me Up” was featured on the Black Panther 2 soundtrack in 2022. I think we are in for some big surprises to come. Since Rihanna's 2023 Superbowl performance all of her fans are waiting and anticipating her next album and new music we will see. 

 8. The Pussycat Dolls or “PCD” will celebrate their 20th anniversary in the music industry although they separated a few years later after much success. This group had some incredible talent in their group and hit songs, “Buttons”, the Buttons remix ft. Snoop Dogg, “Stickwitu”, “I don’t need a man”, “Don’t Cha”, “ frontwoman, Nicole Scherzinger had a way of giving the group that extra oomph they needed with her voice. The Pussycat Dolls originated in Las Vegas was actually a live dance performance show and later expanded into a musical group. Auditions were taken place a year prior before the group was formed and they debuted their first album and it debuted, September 12, 2005. Their first single “Don’t Cha” peaked at number 2 and was on the Billboard charts for 40 weeks that year. I remember me and my 19 year old self blasting this on my ipod this song was my anthem that year. I loved it was original and just loved every woman can own her confidence with this song. This was such a big year for music the hits were just pouring out of the studio. Front woman Nicole is now on Broadway performing on Broadway in Sunset Boulevard. The band members have gone to win Master Chef, have become parents children, marriage, have been on musical competition shows, reality shows, and are still working on their craft too. 

 9. Carrie Marie Underwood (born March 10, 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma)-the angelic blonde from Texas who can sing absolutely anything country, pop, country rock, and gospel. One of American Idols winners in the fourth season twenty years back in 2005 and she is now a seasoned professional singer and artist. Her first album debut took place on November 14, 2005. Carrie’s has had some hits on the Billboard charts like “Jesus take the wheel”, “Before he cheats”, and “Inside your heaven”. She did a crossover album in 2015 with her fifth studio album, “Storyteller” with “Something in the water”. She has gone on to have multiplatinum albums, “Cry Pretty”, “My Gift”, “My Savior”, and “Denim & Rhinestones”. Carrie has gone on to have one of the highest grossing tours, has been featured in the Guinness World Records for successful country albums and tours. Has been honored by the Grand Ole Opry, and has been declared as one of the most successful American Idol recording artists. Make sure you tune into American Idol with her Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan on Sundays and Monday nights on ABC check your local listings. 

 10. Number 10 goes to this former 15-year-old unknown singer from Tappahonnack, Virginia he was born Christopher “Chris” Maurice Brown on May 5, 1989 he has broken records written 118 songs have been featured on the top 100 Billboard charts just won a Grammy this past February 2025 finally getting the much credit he deserves 11 albums yes 11 albums with number 12 on the way sometime this year. Chris is a recording artist, dancer, graffiti artist, painter, singer, songwriter, actor, and continues to show more range as an entertainer and busincarressman. I was impressed to find out what he has been diving into other than his music career. He has continued to show that he was destined to be a musician and artist. Chris probably has close to 200 collaborations whether in studio, on radio, mixtapes, features, or on his own personal albums. Chris just did an incredible tour for the 11.11 tour and now will celebrate his 20th anniversary with Breezy Bowl this summer. Chris just putting this out there to the universe when you decide to name the 12th album I have a genius name “Ladies Welcome to Hotel CB12” then you have room 1-song 1, room 2 etc. This will take him to a whole different mature level there’s a lot he can do with that concept. The number 12 is symbolic just as 11 symbolizing completion, divinity, the number 12 symbolizing creativity, self-expression, tolerance, communication, and self-determination. There is no one who has worked so hard and been relentless with a 45 song album, remember “Heartbreak on a Full Moon”. He continues to defy the odds mixing dancehall, dance music, Afrobeats in his music especially with 11.11. We are all in for a treat with number 12. So had to make sure he was added to the list. Congratulations on 20 years in the music industry from that 15 year old kid in “Run It” to a full-fledge artist you have reached incredible heights. I am noticing with all of these artists I chose they are all having full-circle moments. It feels that way now that they have spent two decades in the business. 

 11. Last but certainly not least is the phoenix who rose from the ashes, the real life superman who has surprised us all with a great comeback 2024’s Netflix comedy special, Mr. Jamie Foxx. Congratulations Jamie on absolutely everything successful Oscar winning films, his standup comedy, movies, tv shows, books, even the way he has raised his beautiful and talented daughters , Corrine and Annaliese. After a medical crises that came up 2 years ago Jamie is back better, funny, introspective, and not slowing down. He is exposing it all. Jamie Congratulations on everything. From Living Color to films and multiplatinum albums. I hope we receive a new album in the future Jamie has collaborated with Kanye West, The Dream, Ne-Yo, Fabolous, and many other stars. 

 12. BONUS- Monica celebrating 30 years since her debut album, Miss Thang came out summer 1995 on July 18, 1995. Monica has had 8 studio albums has been featured on VH1’s “Celebrity True Crime” since 2023, “Celebrity Squares”, “Khloe & Lamar”, “The Real”, and others. Monica has gone on receive multiple Billboard Music Awards, MTV Nominations and Awards and BET Awards. Her voice continues to be like butter, silky, soulful, and sultry still to this day. So to this amazing child star who continues to evolve with music and entertainment congratulations Monica on 30 years in the game since “Miss Thang”. She’s on tour with Lil Kim, Monica, Mya, and Keri Hilson performing this weekend I am sure we can expect more dates to come on ticketmaster.com.

The Casey Crew is back with book number 2 "Real Life Real Family"

Book Number 2 for the Casey Crew written by Raashaun "DJ Envy" and Gia Casey just came out April 16th 2025  

 

Their first book Real Life Real Love debuted and is a national best seller in April 2023. 

The Casey Crew is back with their second book “Real Life, Real Family” I am such a big fan of their books and their podcast. Their investment into their family, their children, the goals, and dreams as well. They have elevated into a whole different world. They know how to invest in their children and family’s goals, their dreams, and they value their family. They set traditions and the patriarch and matriarch of their family, Raashaun “DJ Envy” Casey and Gia Casey have put together structure, loyalty, bonding, and balance for all 6 of their children. The Caseys are high school sweethearts they met at 15 and 16 years old in Queens where they are originally from and fell in love with each other. There love, relationship, and marriage has grown expanding now into a business partnership.

 I like to say Gia and DJ Envy both represent Pragma Love (Enduring Love), Eros Love (Lust & Romantic), Agape (Unconditional love) , Ludus (Playful, Excitement Love), and Philia Love (Friendship). 30 years of them meeting and their connection, 24 years of marriage they celebrate their 24th anniversary next month May 13th (Early congratulations to the two of them and their family). They have shown all of their fans that you can have it all. You have to put God first, faith first, counseling first, and your commitment to each other. You have to zone in and tune out all of the noise. 

To focus on your relationship. The two of them together have shown their podcast , "The Casey Crew" fans what a relationship union can bring and become while they are married and are supportive to one another. 

 Their new book will go in further depth not just about the two of them as a couple, individual stories, but now we get to meet the entire Casey Crew their six children Madison 23, Logan 21, London 11, Jackson 9, Brooklyn 7, and Peyton 3. 

 

The Casey Crew Madison, Logan, London, Jackson, Brooklyn, and Peyton

Their extended family, the lessons they have learned with all of their children. The lessons they have learned while growing up, and they also worked with psychologists and therapists to directly address further topics and perspectives. They made sure to have all bases covered and to also include activities for all of you to do too while you are reading along with your families and friends too.

 I am so proud as a “YouTube family member” call me their younger sister or niece I have been following their podcast now for 8 years since Summer 2017. Their podcast came to me at a great time when I needed to figure out what I wanted to build in my relationships romantically, what I needed to improve on, work on in relationships, more communication, working on saying what I really want, and saying no if this person and I don’t agree don’t settle for less or settle at all. Or if we don’t mix or chemistry is not flowing well. They taught me no go get what you want. Keep moving to get what you deserve and want for yourself. I love how important communicating with all 6 children, their other family members, playing games, going on vacations, and connecting even with themselves. They know how important it is to make sure their families feel love, supported, safe, heard, and most of all exposed to all opportunities life and the world has to offer. Go get your book today and pre-order it just came out this week on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, and your local bookstores.

Throwbacks of these two multimedia personalities taking love, family, and dreams to new heights, Raashaun and Gia Casey.

E-mail them at theecaseycrew@gmail.com and follow them on their podcast. 

Sinners starring Michael B Jordan debuts this weekend

I included all 3 movie posters love the first one because it's true we are all sinners but we try to save our souls everyday and do the right thing honoring goodness. Go see Sinners April 18, 2025-Friday 

 

Are you a sinner? Would you consider yourself to be a sinner? Do you have that battle between your conscience the
“devil” and “angel” on your shoulder fighting you. Your morals, your customs, traditions, your values, everything you have been taught. What you have seen, heard, and experienced from childhood to adulthood? So I ask you again “Are you a sinner?” I believe we all have the battle of good and evil within ourselves. That’s a part of life and living on Earth the battle of who you choose to be. A good guy, the helpful person, a good girl, always kind and looking out for others. Or do you choose to be a villain? I believe this is one of those films that’s going to challenge and open our eyes. This film has been getting major promotion since last year actually. Which is a fantastic sign right now for the film and entertainment industry. We are diving deeper with our themes in films. The film isn’t just about something wicked that
comes upon the residents in this neighborhood. They actually become and turn into modern day (well set in the 1930s Jim Crow South). 

 This film is set in the 1930s in the South where Michael B. Jordan’s characters yes I said that correctly characters he’s playing twins, “Smoke” and “Stack” who are gangsters returning back home to have a fresh start. The two encounter something far more sinister than what they anticipated. When they return home they end up in a dark world where they are not just gangsters anymore they morph into something far more different transforming into vampires out to get the entire town even turning against their own. This film comes from the mind and genius of Ryan Coogler who lead star actor, Michael B. Jordan has been teaming up with since “Fruitvale Station” in 2013. This dynamic film duo has transformed the scope of films along with “Black Panther”, “Wakanda Forever: Black Panther II” , “Creed”, “Creed 2”, and “Creed 3” together they continue breaking grounds with their lives and making film hits. This is a bit more original for the duo they’re going from drama, action, to horror genre taking films to a different place. Typically for African Americans and Hispanics we do not do well in horror films we last maybe 4-5 scenes and then we are out. I am joking but now this takes our people into a different direction when we are not just the sidekick, the token minority girl or guy. No now we are breaking ground in horror films in the 21st century in lead roles. 

This is taking us into a different dimension as entertainers now. This film is getting tons of buzz. For all of the actors and actresses which includes

 1. Michael B. Jordan (starred and performed in Black Panther, Fruitvale Station, Creed 1, 2, and 3, That Awkward Moment) as twin brothers, “Smoke” and “Stack”.

 2. Hailee Steinfeld ( starred in Bum

blebee, True Grit, Pitch Perfect 2, Pitch Perfect 3, Dickinson), as Mary 

 3. Miles Caton as Sammie (debut role for Sinners he is a R&B performer and star who has been touring with Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, H.E.R) 

 4. Jack O’ Connell as Remmick (“Unbroken”, “Lady Chatterley’s Lover”, “Rogue Heroes”, ‘’71”, “Starred Up”, “Back to Black”) 

5. Wunmi Mosaku as Annie (has performed and starred in “Passenger”, “His House”, “Alice Darling”, “Lovecraft Country”, “We Own this City”) 

6. Jayme Lawson as Pearline (performed and starred in “Farewell Amor”, “Woman King”, “How to Blow Up A Pipeline”, “Running Man”, “TILL”, and “The Batman”). 

 7. Omar Benson Miller as Cornbread (starred and performed in “Ballers”, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’”, “8 Mile”, “Naples to New York”, “Last Days of Ptolemy Grey”, “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle”, “Shall We Dance”) 

 8. Li Jun Li as Grace Chow (performed and starred in “Babylon”, “Wu Assassins”, “Billy & Billie”, “The Exorcist”, “Sex/Life”, “Modern Persuasion”, “Minority Report”) 

9. Delroy Lindo as Delta Slim (performed and starred in “Da 5 Bloods”, “Unprisoned”, “Crooklyn”, “Romeo Must Die”, “Get Shorty”, “The Good Fight”, “Blade”) 

10. Yao as Bo Chow (“More, More, More”, “Tiong Bahru Social Club”, “Look At Me”) This amazing film is coming out this weekend on Friday, April 18th go see it immediately.

Look what films have hit the "Dirty 30" mark 1995 was a great year for movies

 

The cast of Clueless (1995)

My number one pic for movies from 1995 it represents my childhood as a 90s kid I was 8 1/2 when the movie came out July 19, 1995. I am still watching it. Love this one. Here pictured are Alicia Silverstone, Brittany Murphy, and Stacey Dash on the set of Clueless. 

1. “Clueless”-yes that Clueless I loved this movie growing up the fashion, the dialogue, the slang, the script, the characters, and most of all the hilarious moments in this movie still make me laugh like when Cher (played by Alicia Silverstone) drives into a STOP sign. Or when Murray (Donald Faison) is giving Dionne (Stacey Dash) driving lessons, or a purple clog goes flying that hits Tai (the late, Brittany Murphy) in the face at a Malibu party. A lot of hilarious moments in the film. The movie was so well written they ended up doing a short television series for a couple of years based

on the film. I remember my mom took me to see this when I was 9 I fell in love with this movie instantly. 1995 was a huge year for some classic films in all genres. I keep wo

ndering wait a minute what happened? What happened to original scripts? Is it me or have we lost our sense of originality when it comes to producing funny content in films. I know we love nostalgia it’s a beautiful thing to be sentimental and reflect on better days. However, I think sometimes we don’t want to keep repeating the same concept too. It’s important films like this stay alive, stay fresh, stay current, and keep generations loving great original work by writers, producers, and artists. I remember hearing how Clueless was actually based on Jane Austen’s “Emma” genius idea! Who would think of fitting a beautiful, blonde 16-year-old in Beverly Hills as the lead then squeeze into the 1990s and have it focus around a high schooler who schmoozes her way into the love life of her teachers and peers.

 2. “FRIDAY”- Who doesn’t love Friday? written and produced by the one the only Ice Cube (O’shea Jackson) about an unemployed 20-something who just got fired and accused of stealing at his job. So to take his mind off his job his best friend gets him into all kinds of shenanigans in their South Central, LA neighborhood fit with colorful, memorable, and hilarious characters. I don’t want to give too much away but this film is a cult classic you need a box of tissues from crying laughing so hard. You will start quoting all of the dialogue verbatim. I have to hand it to Ice Cube he opened a door for every single actor in this film including himself along with (Meagan Good, Apollo, John Witherspoon, Nia Long, Faison Love, Chris Tucker, Regina King, Anna Marie Horsford, Paula Jai Parker, John Lister, and the list goes on). Friday went on to make 2 more films “Next Friday”, and “Friday After Next” continuing to open doors with its successful franchise. People still want to know what happened to a reunion? May be coming soon I hope because a story this good can’t be forgotten. 

 3. “ The Brady Bunch Film” “There’s a story of a lovely lady… if anyone grew up during the seventies, eighties, or watched Nick and Nite reruns growing up on Nickelodeon in the nineties and 2000s you will appreciate this movie. How you cannot adore the ultra-innocent, sweet, wholesome Brady Bunch family. The blended family which consists of 3 boys and 3 girls both from previous marriages joining their parent’s new marriage together. Brady Bunch was actually a bit ahead of its time with the blended family concept I love that because we don’t realize how Carol and Mike had to bring six pre-teens and teenagers all together to live under one roof. Then join them all together. Kind of a fascinating concept and they were all well behaved. The remake of this film was such a great love letter to the original cast and crew of this hit television series that lasted 5 years and 5 seasons (1969-1974) with Sherwood Schwartz the creator.  The Brady Bunch film cast stars Shelley Long, Gary Cole as Carol and Mike Brady. Also Christine Taylor, Henriette Mantel, Paul Sutera, Jennifer Elise Cox, Christopher Daniel Barnes, and Olivia Hack.  You also may have seen a few surprise faces in the film and including RuPaul appeared in a cameo as well.

 4. “The Quick and the Dead” I actually forgot about this film but when I looked up films celebrating their anniversaries this year this was one that was on the list too. I remember watching this movie thinking I want to be like Sharon Stone she plays a cowgirl who comes to town on a revenge trip after her father was killed when she was a child. My great-grandmother had a huge collection of films. When I stayed with her and her husband. I watched probably every movie when I had downtime or wasn’t playing with my cousins and family. There are some interesting plot twists and has an all-star cast a younger, Leonardo “Leo” DiCaprio, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe, and many familiar faces you will see in this film set in “The Wild Wild West”. 

 5. “Braveheart” I remember this film because my father when he watched his movies they always had to be on surround sound dad had to feel, see, and hear the movie. It was like a feast for the senses. My father had two huge 3-feet surround sound speakers in his living room. When I lived with him he's a big movie and history buff. If dad was playing his music and movies you had to feel it in your heart when you watched or listened. Braveheart I remember was one of those packed with action, historical figures, drama, and stunning visuals. The film starring and featuring Mel Gibson as a Scottish patriot, William Wallace leading his army into battle to threaten King Edward before he becomes a symbol to Scotland for freedom 

 6. “Dangerous Minds”- This is a classic as well about a substitute teacher who is teaching at an inner city public high school starring Michelle Pfeiffer. This film is one of those you won’t forget plus who can forget the soundtrack? Michelle stars an ex-marine who comes into teach her students how to become the next future air pilots and train them. She ends up giving the teens more than just school lessons in class. She takes inner city kids and comes in with toughness to mold and shape them into something more substantial in society. 

 7. “Seven” two words- “Brad Pitt” need I say more? And starring of course the living legend, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Spacey. This film it can be a bit hard to watch because of the intensity surrounded around a serial killer who has plotted and out to commit a crime using the 7 deadly sins as his trademark when the detectives and police are out hunting down the murder. The genius of using religion, violence, drama in this film plays a major roll in this film. It’s a bit of a witch hunt for the killer in this film and will keep everyone on edge as they get to the end of the film. The film will take you on a mystery to find out who is this person using religion and committing a serious serial killer crime at the same time. 

 

 

 8. “Bad Boys-The Franchise” will celebrate 30 years this summer. This classic has already gone on to make a few films after the 1995 blockbuster summer hit. This dynamic duo of the 1990s has now gone into the 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s with four massive blockbuster hit movies and they still are not done yet. The film featured Martin Lawrence, Will Smith, Theresa Randle, Tea Leoni, Joe Pontliano. The Bad Boys films always had a phenomenal soundtrack to all of their films featuring unknowns and well known stars. The Bad Boys franchise is still expanding more to be told from Martin Lawrence and Will Smith. 

 9. “Higher Learning” a film set on a Los Angeles public university in 1995 starring another all star cast and a few unknowns. Directed by the late, great, and multitalented, John Singleton. This film gave Hollywood some edge because it really transformed the scope of schools being filmed. It took it to another level especially the dramatic scenes. We have never seen a movie where actors/actresses were dealing with crises in an educational setting. Not caused by the students maybe protests, perhaps racial, gender issues, political issues during the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, or even the 80s. We never saw it heightened on this level. The 1990s took the educational realm in films to a different level. This was one of those movies that broke the rules. It covered political topics, historical, college campus issues, integration the affects of it in a post-integration generation. The cast was phenomenal starring Laurence Fishburne, Omar Epps, Tyra Banks, Kristy Swanson, Ice Cube, Michael Rapaport, Cole Hauser, Jennifer Connelly, and Busta Rhymes. I believe this was actually Busta Rhymes his first debut film outside of hip-hop/rap career. This is another one of those movies that have lessons in them for every one especially those in college right now the Generation Y & Z, Millennials can all take some lessons and notes from this film. 

The writer/screenplay, Terry McMillan who wrote, "Waiting to Exhale" the film was brought to life with these four ladies on screen in December of 1995. Loretta Devine, Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, and Lela Rochon featured with Terry

 10. “Waiting to Exhale”- This film is a classic! This film came out around Christmas 1995 Another one I can watch over and over again. People still talk about the phenomenal musical soundtrack produced by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis so many people were featured behind the scenes and the front lines of the film you were getting a whole wave of amazing singers and artists from Whitney Houston, Brandy, TLC, Cece Winans, SWV, Toni Braxton, Chante Moore, and many more. The music made you appreciate the book, the film, and the characters too. There is supposed to be a sequel reports have brewed about a possible part two to the film. I hope it would happen soon with all of these characters perhaps a new story can unfold with their friendship and lives of “S

avannah” (the amazing the late, great, Whitney Houston(August 9, 1964-February 11, 2012), “Gloria” (Loretta Devine), “Bernadine” (Angela Bassett) , and “Robin” (Lela Rochon). The film was directed by fellow actor, Forest Whitaker. 

 11. “Goldeneye” The 30th anniversary is coming up this fall this another film with a stellar soundtrack featuring the incredible Tina Turner (November 26, 1939-May 24, 2023) who sung the theme song of the film. The film is a nod to the James Bond films that featured Sean Connery and all of the other stars who had a chance to play him. This was a chance to bring a new generation of fans to the film. Goldeneye takes James Bond into a new generation where he is out to stop Double 06 and save the world in this film starring Pierce Brosnan. 

 12. Jumanji- This film will take you and your children on a rollercoaster ride. I remember my father took my stepsister and I as children to see it we loved the movie so much I went to Toys R Us and bought the board game just to play with my other classmates as well. The film stars the late comedic legend, Robin Williams, Bonnie Hunt, Jonathan Hyde, Bebe Neuwirth, Kirsten Dunst, David Alan Grier, and more notable stars in a film that takes live action to a whole different level. The game literally comes to life for the main characters. This is one you do not want to miss. Buckle up and hold on tight. Jumanji is going to take on a live safari in your home!

 BONUS FILMS-“ It takes Two” I love this little movie there is something about it that is heartwarming two little girls who have never met before end up crossing paths. One is a little girl who is up for adoption but will be adopted by parents who just uses kids as employees. The other is a well-kept, privileged, child prodigy on her way to becoming a future pianist and musician whose father is the owner of a successful children’s camp and philanthropist. The two girls cross paths and all of the while play matchmaker to two of the people closest to them. I also love the film because it stars two of our biggest 1990s child stars who became extremely successful, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen “The Olsen Twins” star along with Kirstie Alley, Steve Guttenberg, Jane Sibbett, and Phillip Bosco. I wanted to close with something heartwarming and since I hope one day to have twins of my own this is one of those films I hope to show my mischievous, funny, and sassy dynamic duo if they are little girls too (Fingers crossed). 

Last Bonus-"My Family/ Mi Familia" (1995) 

The story is generational discussing a Latin American family who escapes immigration for a better life style and to give their future children a better life. It takes you on a ride from the 50s into the early 1990s. I loved the movie had a great story line and really focuses what matters most following your heart, family connections, and fighting for your family no matter what the obstacles you may be facing in your life.

Congratulations to all of the cast members featured in these films on 30 years of their lives in the business whether it was their first role on set or another featured film. For actors and actresses we all just want one hit to be a part of one great hit whether in theater, television, or film. So that’s why its so important to celebrate a work anniversary you have accomplished greatness and will accomplish more to come.

Women's History Month- Women's impact on music-Selena celebrating her life, career, fashion, & legacy 30 years later.

Selena Quintanilla Perez (April 16, 1971-March 31, 1995)

 

As a pop culture writer we have to be timely, everything is about making sure it comes out at the right exact moment when it needs to be released. This I wanted to make sure it was the right moment. It has been thirty years since Selena Quintanilla Perez passed on March 31st, 1995 in Corpus Christi, Texas at the Corpus Christi hospital but her musical impact, dance moves, fashion sense, her style, beauty still continues to inspire women and men all over the world. Especially young singers all across the world and entertainment stars. She was an accomplished woman who did a  crossover with pop music, Tejano Mexican music that was dominated by men mostly. 

As a female artist, ‘Selena y los Dinos” her, her family, and her band transformed the music industry breaking barriers. Her family continues to honor her legacy and produced both the film, “Selena” (1997) they will celebrate the 30th anniversary in 2027, and her Netflix series  that was released and streamed in December 2020. I wanted to celebrate her music since it was released in the late eighties and early nineties. 

The celebration of Women’s History Month, her impact in music, and her birthday as well which falls on April 16h she would have been 54 years old this year  she would probably  be a judge on music television shows featured on international networks everywhere, probably movie deals, fashion line still evolving, and so much more. Her family continues to rebrand her fashion line and will continue to share her story. 

 Selena’s story is not one of tragedy, yes it was devastating for her family, friends, her fashion design team, the music industry, and yes the billions of fans she adored and loved. It was one of hope, one of learning how to protect yourself with people who will always have your back, have your best intentions professionally, personally, who will believe in you. I think her story is about believing in yourself, family taking risks, overcoming challenges, following your passions, you must invest your time and your love into as well to see your dreams come true.  Selena’s life will be celebrated this weekend and with the documentary featured on Hulu, her movie, and her Netflix special her tremendous talent, her loving spirit, creativity, style will continue to live on for all of us who come to know her music and story Watch Selena's documentary is on Hulu now debuted today March 28th, 2025 and Nightline teamed up to go into updates and depth on her story. You can watch at home on your television, mobile, and laptop devices. 

To her family, friends, and the billions of fans justice has been served, Yolanda Saldivar (the former fan club president will not be released, will continue to serve her life sentence in jail). We will all continue to celebrate this beautiful life and person who deserved so much more to witness and experience too. 

For more information on Selena's music, fashion, her story, and more please visit

Visit http://www.selena-official.com, www.hulu.com, and www.netflix.com 

Kendrick Lamar will headline for the 49th Superbowl NFL games halftime show with Surprise Guests

SZA and others will join Kendrick on stage. 

Kendrick Lamar, 37 will take over "The Crescent City" at the Superdome for the 49th NFL games for the Philadelphia Eagles vs the Kansas City Chiefs on February 9th, 2025

The Crescent City or New Orleans Louisiana known for their cuisine, food, jazz music, masquerade masks, the beads being thrown at the Mardi Gras parade, and the deep mystery’s of what happens beneath the swamps or down by the rivers and streams of Lake Pontchartrain and watching that hot humid sun rise and the gorgeous sunset down on the bayou will give you many memories. New Orleans is a city of resiliency, strength, transformation, passionate, fiery, and colorful. From the exotic seafood dishes, their delicious delectable desserts, and transformative cocktail drinks. New Orleans will have you swept up in a tizzy wanting to come. back more and more. 

 So how can we celebrate a city that has seen some trouble waters, they have found ways to bounce back and reinvent themselves again and again. A city where people are charmed and inspired by it as well. We need to celebrate them for the amazing historical accomplishments they have achieved for themselves. On January 1st 2025 this year on New Years Eve evening/early morning hours. The city of New Orleans was attacked with a targeted and planned terrorist attack by an attacker who is part of a terrorist group and methodically planned it for months to run his car through the streets of Bourbon street and harm and kill the lives of innocent Americans and tourists. 

Who were in town to celebrate the holidays and their time in New Orleans. This attack was senseless and malicious which caused unbearable pain to the families, friends, and those who lives were touched by the innocent victims. So how do we honor a great city. We push on and continue I think this Super bowl and the halftime show is so much more important because we need to continue to celebrate the joys of human life, instead of tragedies, we need to treasure the triumphs, and continue to enjoy all of the greatness that comes with life. Focus on the music, the parties you have attended, the great food, the drinks you have shared with friends, and family. The accomplishments small or big you have achieved in your life, the achievements of others who inspire you, and more. 

These malicious attackers they want to take away everything that we have worked hard for and want to believe in, want to be excited and hopeful for too. They want to take away the people that matter to us. So since “They not like us” they don’t believe in real life, real love, real joy, fight, and passion. Just like these football players they believe in fight & determination. They have put time and effort into all of their goals & dreams to be at this game coming. That’s what we want to focus on as humans, as a race of people who are always excited to see our heroes make it to the top. We believe that we can get to our goals through fight, even in obstacles, we keep our motivation going. So I hope we can take that away from this experience if it affects one of us on Earth it affects all of us. So let’s get into who is performing he’s not a stranger to the Superbowl stage , Roc Nation has decided to pick Kendrick Lamar this year for the 49th Apple Music Superbowl halftime show. Lamar has performed in 2023 with Dr. Dre, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Snoop Dogg. Now he is back with new surprise guests. 

I know one who has been added  is Grammy award winner, singer, songwriter SZA she will join Kendrick Lamar on stage. Which will be incredible both multi-talented artists have an incredible catalog of music that has touched all of us from slow jams, anthems, conscious music, and songs that make you want to get up and party too. So I hope wherever you are celebrating the NFL game at home, out with friends & family, in person with the fans live, or somewhere special. Enjoy don’t feel bad about having fun because you deserve it, you own that joy, you own that passion, and you treasure the memories. For more information visit http://www.nfl.com, www.interscoperecords.com and www.applemusic.com

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.