The Chocolate Voice

Brandy Norwood Returns to Lifetime for Holiday Sequel Christmas Everyday Again

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 10, 2026) — Following the success of last year’s Christmas Everyday, Grammy® Award-winning singer and actress Brandy Norwood returns to Lifetime this holiday season to star in and executive produce Christmas Everyday Again (working title). Norwood reprises her role as Francine “Fancy” Ballantine, which earned her an NAACP Award nomination. She is joined by her real-life daughter, Sy’rai […]

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Two-Time Oscar Winner Mahershala Ali Stars in Powerful New Drama YOUR MOTHER YOUR MOTHER YOUR MOTHER

Academy Award-winning actor Mahershala Ali returns to the big screen in Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother, an emotionally charged new drama from writer-director Bassam Tariq. Ali stars as Latif, a devoutly religious hitman struggling to balance the demands of his work, his faith, and fatherhood. When tragedy strikes with the death of his wife, Latif

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aja monet Brings Presence & the Power of Poetry, Music and Community to UCSD ArtPower

Grammy-nominated poet, musician and activist invites audiences to slow down, listen and reconnect with their humanity By Gwen Pierce Most artists entertain. Others set out to inspire. And then there are artists like aja monet, who invite audiences to reflect and rediscover the beauty of simply being present. Ahead of her upcoming performance at UC

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Broadway San Diego Brings Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen to the Civic Theatre This August

Get ready for the electrifying new musical inspired by the music of 17-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys! Hell’s Kitchen tells the powerful coming-of-age story of Ali, a fearless 17-year-old navigating life, family, dreams, and self-discovery in 1990s New York City. Featuring music and lyrics by Alicia Keys—including her biggest hits and brand-new songs—this Tony Award-winning

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Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Pastor Mike Jr. Set to be Honored at 41st Stellar Awards; Kierra Sheard, Jekalyn Carr, PJ Morton & More to Perform

July 21, 2026) – Today, Central City Productions announced the first wave of performers and special honorees for the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, hosted by Kirk Franklin. Under this year’s theme, “Feels Like Home,” gospel music’s greatest night will bring together the genre’s most celebrated artists, trailblazers, and rising stars for an unforgettable evening of worship, inspiration, and world-class performances.

Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Pastor Mike Jr. Set to be Honored at 41st Stellar Awards; Kierra Sheard, Jekalyn Carr, PJ Morton & More to Perform Read More »

San Diego: Bayside Gospel Concert Celebrates 13 Years Aboard the USS Midway

In its 13th year, the Bayside Gospel Concert has proven that it is more than just a concert—it’s a San Diego summer tradition. Year after year, the event brings together faith, fellowship and unforgettable music, making it one of the most anticipated gospel celebrations in America’s Finest City. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the

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ESSENCE Festival: The Global Black Economic Forum Black on Women’s Health

NEW ORLEANS (July 8, 2026) — The Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF) convened a powerful discussion on Black women’s health during the ESSENCE Festival of Culture 2026 with the panel, “Sistas, Say It Louder: Reclaiming Power, Pleasure, and Protection in Black Women’s Health.” The panel featured GRAMMY-nominated singer and television personality Tamar Braxton, actress, author, and advocate Amiyah Scott, LaDeia Joyce and faith leader Dr. Karri Bryant.

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From Dream Role to Disney Prince: Fergie Philippe Brings Heart, Humor and Representation to Beauty and the Beast

By Gwen Pierce For actor Fergie Philippe, stepping into the role of the Beast each night is more than putting on a costume. It is the fulfillment of a dream years in the making. “Beast was always one of those roles,” Philippe said during a recent interview with The Chocolate Voice. “It was a dream

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Grammy Award-Winner Artist Erykah Badu Announces Live Tour in September

DALLAS, TX — June 24, 2026: Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, songwriter, and cultural icon Erykah Badu announces “LIVE”, a special run of dates this September featuring legendary producer The Alchemist and hip-hop pioneers De La Soul. Acclaimed rapper and songwriter Smino, along with additional special guests, will join select dates in San Diego, Berkeley, and

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