#KRITICIZM - Eddie Murphy’s iconic 1988 comedy Coming to America is remembered for its legendary cast, timeless humor, and unforgettable romance between Prince Akeem and Lisa McDowell. But what many fans don’t know is that the role of Lisa was originally intended for a different leading lady: Lisa Lisa, the chart-topping music sensation from Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam. At the height of her fame in the late 1980s, Lisa Lisa—known for hits like “I Wonder If I Take You Home” and “He

#KRITICIZM - Lexy Panterra is continuing to expand her musical catalog with the release of her new single, “Why Lie,” adding another chapter to a career that has taken her from viral internet fame to pursuing her own lane as a recording artist. Also known to many fans as Virgin Lex, Panterra has built a massive digital presence over the years. With millions of followers across social media, she became widely recognized for her personality, dance content, music, and ability to

#KRITICIZM - In the world of hip-hop—especially in its birthplace of New York City—lyrical warfare has always been a defining part of the culture. Battling is where reputations are built, legends are born, and careers can be ended in a single verse. And in that arena, few names command as much respect as Big L, the Harlem wordsmith who many rappers quietly admitted they never wanted smoke with. Born Lamont Coleman, Big L rose from the streets of Harlem with a gift that separa

#KRITICIZM - If you were listening to R&B in the early 2000s, there’s a good chance you remember Ruff Endz and their breakout hit “No More.” The Baltimore duo arrived during an era packed with memorable R&B acts, but one record was enough to make their name part of the soundtrack of the period. Ruff Endz consisted of David “Davinch” Chance and Dante “Chi” Jordan, two singers from Baltimore, Maryland. Before landing a major record deal, the pair spent years trying to break int

#KRITICIZM - Kenneth Dabney did not build Below Average to celebrate being ordinary. He created it for people who have been underestimated, overlooked or told they were not capable of accomplishing something meaningful. What began as a New Orleans clothing company has developed into a message of faith, perseverance and self-belief. Now, Dabney is carrying that message into music with the release of the seven-track Below Average EP. Released in August 2026, the project brings

#KRITICIZM - More than three decades after her passing, Selena Quintanilla remains one of the most beloved and influential Latin music artists of all time. Known around the world simply as Selena, the Texas-born singer helped take Tejano music to audiences far beyond its traditional base and appeared to be on the verge of an even bigger crossover career when her life was tragically cut short. Born April 16, 1971, in Lake Jackson, Texas, Selena began performing at a young age

#KRITICIZM - A five-star rating may represent excellence to most people, but Ariana Mercedes is aiming twice as high. The rising Oakland rapper is embracing confidence, ambition and self-worth with her new song, “10 Star.” The release gives Ariana another opportunity to showcase her personality while introducing new listeners to the bold standard she has created for herself. More than a memorable title, “10 Star” represents the mindset of someone who refuses to be measured by

#KRITICIZM - During the 1990s, hip-hop produced countless songs that captured the realities of growing up, but few records created the feeling of nostalgia as perfectly as Ahmad’s “Back in the Day.” Released in 1994, the smooth and reflective track made listeners think about childhood, old friendships and the days before adult responsibilities took over. Ahmad Ali Lewis was only 18 years old when “Back in the Day” introduced him to a national audience. Unlike much of the hard

#KRITICIZM - A memorable song can introduce an emerging artist to an entirely new audience, and Brianna Jade is making the most of that opportunity with her latest single, “My Bad.” The release presents Brianna as a confident new voice who is prepared to share her personality, talent and artistic vision with listeners. With a familiar phrase at the center of the record, “My Bad” immediately creates curiosity about the emotions and experiences behind the music. Nearly everyone

#KRITICIZM - There are comedians who tell jokes, and then there are comedians whose personality alone can make an audience laugh. Bernie Mac was one of those rare entertainers. Born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough on October 5, 1957, Bernie Mac rose from Chicago's South Side to become one of the most recognizable comedians and actors of his generation. His unmistakable voice, facial expressions, fearless delivery and ability to turn everyday life into comedy made him impossible to