Public Theologian, Artist and "Music History Sage/Scholar" & Independent Blogger Building an 'Indie' Bridge Between Theology and Pop Culture. Connecting with Artists, Fan Communities and Culture by Educating, Providing Commentary, Reviews and Attending Concerts. Offering Prayer and Insight. Providing a Ministry of Presence Since 2003.
This is a preview of a Sermonette I wrote entitled "Calibrating Compassion and Contentment in a World of Discontent". One of the things I mention in my sermonette is the importance of "kindness". I also mentioned the most recent situation in Gary, Indiana. Though most of the utilities have been restored, there remains a need for prayer and more responsiveness concerning the loss of power for Gary and other cities that may face outtages in vital services as well over such an extended length of time.
By the way, displays of kindness should not be reduced to role playing and idiotic electronic video games that make fun of the situation and its importance or that target purely intentioned others. (If you have something you want to say to me, come correct.)
There were many amazing tributes that came in the past few days in the wake of the passing of Country music legend Dolly Parton. From iconic Beyonce, John Mayer, Queen Latifah on BET and many others. There is a quote she made that really resonated with me about kindness. It is "Talent is universal kindness should be too.Talent is universal kindness should be too."
My full sermon will be available for download in the near future on the website.
Beloved Country music legend and philantropist Dolly Parton passed away yesterday after a brief bout with cancer. She was 80 years old. Tributes and expressions of sympathy have been pouring in for the Country music icon including from music legend Beyonce who covered "Jolene" one of Dolly's notable songs on her groundbreaking Grammy Award-winning album "Cowboy Carter"which landed her an Album of the Year Award last year. Beyonce gave a tribute to Dolly on her website with expressions of regard and condolences. In addition to Beyoncé’s cover of “Jolene”, Dolly collaborated with Beyoncé on Tyrant and Dolly P., two other cuts on the album.
A California judge has ordered Chris Brown to pay what may eventually be considered an unusually high verdict. The 13 Million payment ordered by California Judge Avila in a recent dog bite case to be paid out of his R & B tour proceeds and royalties.
Brown's attorneys are likely appealing the matter based on the remedy of remittitur, which grants the party ruled against to petition the court for a decrease in the amount of damages awarded the Plaintiff if it can be proven that the jury wanted to punish Brown since he is a controversial celebrity who has experienced legal scrapes in the past. Jurors may have harbored prejudices that contributed to an unusually high judgment. Juror prejudices may have resulted in inaccurate calculations concerning the extent of plaintiff's physical injuries and actual pain and suffering.
The remittitur process will also permit an examination of the financial award to determine if it is severely disproportionate to Plaintiff's pay outs and documented costs, receipts for treatment and medical follow up for the physical and psychological injuries sustained.
As it currently stands the Judge may collect proceeds from Chris's R & B Tour proceeds. However, if the appeal of the 13 Million ruling is successfully reduced through the process of remittitur the amount he has been previously ordered to pay by the court may be significantly reduced. In any event hopefully Brown had good insurance coverage.
Prayers going out that his legal team will handle all of these matters so he can keep his focus on touring and remain shielded from these legal stresses and maintain his creative focus and energy levels throughout the tour. Praying also for the housekeeper's healing.
Please keep Brown's legal team lifted in prayer also.
It was another night of sold-out crowds, musical enrichment, stellar vocals, impeccable dance moves and stage light show enjoyment from a comfortable seat. There were moments when I thought I was viewing the actual firmament beyond the risers of Soldier's Field and in the midst of an actual star filled universe. It was awesome and not in the more mundane use of that word. Check out this video capture of Usher performing "You Got it Bad" before a packed Soldier's Field recorded by producer extraordinaire Jermaine Dupris. Dupris of course, has produced some of Usher's greatest hits. It was great seeing him supporting the superstar and exchanging greetings with the concert luminaries and fans before and during the show. It was Dupris who first prophesied about the greatness of the tour and what it would do for the black community months before official kick-off at Mile High Stadium in Denver. From all accounts his forecast has been uncannily accurate and on point. Also, check out this series of poses taken by a fan and posted on Instagram. Speaks to the firmament again. This time Usher's brilliantly shining suit blends in or should I say dovetails with the stellar background.
Usher has had more than the R&B concert tour success to celebrate these days. He recently checked his son into prestigious HBCU Howard University like a normal proud parent whose child is leaving the nest. His daughter also has accomplished a milestone graduating from pre-school. Usher was right there cheering her on. He also enjoys spectacular splashes in the family pool fully clothed with wife and kids upping the fun, splash harmony and humor.
There are some other things you may not know about this r&b icon. He gives back to the community graciously and consistently and has been doing so for over 25 years through his New Look foundation. Ten interns were selected for participation in the behind the scene production activities of the R&B Tour from big cities like Detroit and Atlanta through Usher's New Look Foundation. He also contributed along with Detroit's own Big Sean a Million dollars in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club to a creative studio for youth housed in Detroit's Michigan Central Station. Usher also serves as an ambassador of Global Citizen. He has also supported the careers of up and coming artists like Kehlani, Miguel and others through through the aforementioned special mentor and music training program. Gracious and graceful Usher.
Keep him lifted in prayer as he lifts up prayer to god in this photo and his and Chris Brown's (Breezy's) team with Pastor Gray before R&B Tour's opening concert in Detroit.
Big thanks to the fans who generously share their photos and videos on the Gram. I appreciate you.
Introductory Video Commentary by Rev. Cynthia D. Wilson
Ihave enjoyed following what has been proclaimed and has gained its rightful place as the biggest tour for Rhythm and Blues this year because of two of the biggest stars Chris Brown and Usher are co-headliners. As a promoter of prayer and co-founder of Chaplain of Pop outreach ministry of presence, through prayer and support, I was as thrilled to have been considered for the opportunity and happy to see the tour opened with prayer before Detroit's show at Ford Field last month by Rev. Gray. He did a great job. Also, Chris and Usher facilitated an opening prayer by a local pastor before one of the Detroit shows as well. I would have loved to have been present for such a monumental night giving the prayer myself or just being among the prayer circle. But due to unforseen reasons. I ask that you pray for me to get beyond and overcome these man-made obstacles.
I do look forward to attending in person in the future. In the meantime I can always do a video as I have been constantly reminded. Though hugs and handshakes are more effective in person. I still have enjoyed some of the performances via live stream and have messaged short prayers and comments during the "live chats". Those interactions are impotant as well.
Live chat provides an opportunity for me and others to message prayers and comments throughout the show. Its was good to listen to the perspectives and opinions of fans and also see the concert "live" from a different angle. When you can't be there in person to interview them or mingle for whatever reasons it is the next best thing. I really appreciated the setting even though intermittent loud and excited expressions from fans produced varied versions of the songs. The songs come off slightly different when overdubbed with exhilarated singing and shouts from loving fans. But I was glad to experience the concert all the more from that aspect. Though I would have preferred to be there in person even more. Working on it...!
The streamers are dedicated and very concerned about others being able to see the show, especially when the wifi connection is lost. The fade out happens but only lasts a few seconds usually. They demand uninterrupted continuity and flow of the show, as it must go on. A special "shout out" to the streamers who stood in the gap and also produced some entertainment of their own with their cheering and excited commentary. Though sometimes a bit risque you have to remember that Chris Brown is a co-headliner of the concert. And of course Usher's fans were as exhilarated from his performance as Brown's fans were of his. The tenor of the expressions and the language used varied a bit for each artist and was interesting to note.
Chris Brown and Usher continued their excellence in delivery of great music with impeccable vocals and dance routines with some exciting surprises in their guest line up and dance performance changes in the first night's show.
There was a beautifully tasteful and giant black and white background photo display of Chris Brown during the early days during one of the songs performed which provided a lovely touch.
Chris usually clad in chains, all black leather and all black pants when performing the "Under the Influence/ Take You Down" pole dance segment, the most sexually provocative scene of the show, was sporting overalls during the first night's skit which took the steaminess down a few notches. Also, the stage lights were dimmed during the ascending of the staircase scene after the pole dance interval leaving it to the audience's imagination, at least from my viewing angle. It was done in good taste though, in my opinion.
Check out this link for a terrific Instagram capture. Also you can go to Chris Brown or Usher's fan sites for other videos of this and other shows from the R&B Tour.
New York's concerts on both nights of the R&B Tour also took on a whole new dimension with an exciting line-up of guest performances. You had rappers like 50 Cents whose surprise appearance had the concert audience welcoming him to the stage with thunderous applause. Other rappers making surprise appearances were Jadakiss and Fat Joe who joined Usher on stage for a performance of a long rap and R&B medley of music and verse. The impromptu performance was reminiscent of homies in the neighborhood getting together and having a jam session of old friends. It was clear they and the audience were enjoying every second.
In non-verbal language when Jadakiss and Fat Joe swaggered onstage after climbing the stairs to join their friends their entrance body language spoke loud and clear--we are your back-up and have your back in our neighborhood. After the three of them performed together, Usher gracefully yielded the stage to Fat Joe and Jadakiss who rapped a few numbers together. There was also a surprise rap performance by Lil Baby. I couldn’t help but speculate that Jay-Z may have sent them as emissaries to roll out a New York homage and welcome for the two r&b icons. After all Usher did make a surprise appearance at his concert at Yankee Stadium.
It was great to see an array of rappers joining Usher’s and Chris Brown’s R&B Tour party. Eric Bellinger and Tank also made guest appearances performing their popular rhythm and blues songs.
R&B crooners Mario and Eric Bellinger also showed up again for the second show. The biggest surprise came the second night of the concert when two Hip Hop and r&b diva-icons Mary J. Blige and Ashanti joined Usher on stage for outstanding segments. It was great to see the ladies join the R&B Tour party. Rapper Fortune, Method Man, A Boogie made it as well.
Here's another nice video montage that was prepared of the special guests performing on day two.
Chaplain of Pop video updates forthcoming soon at link.
The audience had filled the stadium almost to capacity and the "audience-warmer" DJ enthusiastically blasted the air with recorded sounds of R&B and soul music greats while the audience responded energetically dancing in celebratory anticipation of the historic concert, co-headlining two R&B icons. It was a giant pre-concert stadium-filled party southern style with vibrant dancing and wild routines of twerking, hustle routines on the main floor embellished by audio call and responses. Some of the live concert music fans chants sounded like college fraternity and sorority chants from a roaring and cheering pre-game crowd.
It was then that I looked around and observed that the seats were filled to capacity with the magnetic energy of thousands of fans-70,000 capacity seating in unison eagerly anticipating Brown and Usher's appearance on stage. It was dazzlingly uplifting to view the coordinated light show conducted by the pre-show DJ who led the crowd in a symphony of lights by their seating sections. Instructed to "put your lights on", the result was a bright switch off-and-on that was done quickly between the sections and created a beautiful flashing light pattern by section across the stadium when that particular section received the command. The light was provided by individual cell phones.
I wish I could have filmed it. A wonderful display of solidarity among fans around the stadium created a harmony and sense of unity that would encircle the stadium throughout the concert. It was truly inspiring to observe what the love of these world class entertainers could inspire.
I had the good fortune to view it via livestream. It was an educational experience to say the least, in the midst of a vast community of concert attendees enjoying the experience of robust commentary by other fans-as they observed the vocals and dance moves of Brown and Usher. They made the kind of relational outbursts you may have experienced from excited movie fans in a neighborhood theater. Cheering the stars on like they were close family members or friends.
In summary, I thought the concert was very good. What I noted most were the vocals, both Usher's and Brown's stage presence and the audience's enthusiastic response to their favorite songs. The sound wss somehow crisper and clearer from previous concerts that I observed before. Of course, we know each artist can sing and they have the accolades, record sales and Grammys to prove it. We also know that the music for the tour is being done by the well-known and respected Avila brothers. But if this means anything to all you audiophiles out there, the microphones were indeed on, as one person interjected frequently during the singing and you could definitely tell.
Usher performed first making his entrance with customary smooth, suave and cool swagger. The ladies in the audience went wild. I had one screaming in my ear, "that man is so fine" as he made his way to center stage. All eyes were on him during his selection of a woman from the VIP section to perform one of the rather risque heated scenes. She was rather nonchalant and Usher quickly picked up on it and handled the matter with class and finesse. His performances of "Climax", "Confessions","You Don't Have to Call", "Superstar", "You Got It Bad", "Let It Burn", the joining or mixing transition with Chris on "It Depends" and of course his duet with Chris the concert finale song "New Flame" were just fine, well received by the audience and on point.
Mario performed a nice suite of songs during the break getting a strong applause for his hit song "Let Me Love You" and two others after Eric Bellinger performed an abbreviated set. Though he didn't perform long, the audience responded enthusiastically to his performance.
You could clearly hear and listen to the vocal runs. Chris Brown's singing on "Something in the Water", "Residuals", "With You", "Ain't No Way", "Forever", his dance spins and the real quasi-explicit pole dance scene with the dancer roused the audience, though it was toned down a bit. A little old-fashioned myself I appreciated that and I'll just leave it there. His flight through the air thrilled the audience. I am not too keen on that flying through the air myself. However, he and the audience seem to enjoy it immensely. I'm always on pins and needles.
I really enjoyed the show and had pretty good views throughout surrounded by some rambunctious personalities who loudly made their views known.😉 Although the Nissan Stadium's wifi was sketchy at times participating in the online chat in which I wrote a prayer before the concert started and at the end of wishing everyone a safe exit from the stadium and safe travels home.
If you have the opportunity, get your tickets to the show. The concert is definitely worth it.
God bless,
Cynthia Wilson
Edited 7.27.26 @6:25p.m. to include Usher short on his viral moment and Mario's performance and Eric Bellinger.
When I saw the first video footage in a video clip the morning after the kick-off concert in Denver, I was quite honestly simply wonderstruck by the fantastic light show and stage art design. Especially liked Usher's background show where a chess board was portrayed kind of holographically throughout the song performance. He has such a smooth and cool stage presence and an impressive majestic command of what was the vast audience before him.
Throughout the show how Brown paid tribute to Michael Jackson, Prince and other r&b artists was heartening. I particularly liked his performance of Residuals where the hood of a car was used as his stage and all the lights glowing in the backdrop from what appeared to be Los Angeles, provided an amazing backdrop.
Detroit's show was as energy packed as Denver's. The crowd really enjoyed Chris coming down from the stage, mingling and dancing with some of the audience. The performance of New Flame where Chris and Usher danced and sang together was great to see after all the build up and pre-concert enthusiasm expressed by both of them about working together. To actually see it accomplished was heartwarming. Of course, Chris flying through the air had everyone excited and probably on the edge of there seats and on pins and needles.
The concerts on both nights have been spectacular. The combination of these two entertainment icons performing live at a huge stadium with capacity crowds surpassing 50,000 created quite a buzz.
Clip from Minneapolis:
Clip from Cleveland:
Forthcoming via link
While I thoroughly have enjoyed watching the amazing concert videos and live streams,what has been most notable about the tour is the way the artists have opened up access and opportunities for our youth as well as fans in general. Usher through his non-profit Usher's New Look , 10 interns have had the paid opportunity to learn what goes on behind the scenes of such a large production. Chris has VIP receptions special behind the scene/backstage tours and raffles, Meet and Greet space for group and fan photos. And the tour has recently sent out a call to the pubic to apply for paid positions to participate in the actual stage concert performance as background extras.
As for the relationship of all of the foregoing in terms of its theological implications and relationship to serving God, giving back to the community that has contributed to your wealth and success is one of the things that god loves us to do. "Love your neighbor as yourself" and God loves a cheerful giver are starters for discussion. Scripture also calls upon us to make a joyful noise to the lord. There is evidence of that and some sounds that may be a little risqué. That will be discussed in the follow-up podcast. I believe that may be where the bridge comes in.
Please tune into my podcast to learn more about my coverage of this and other concert and music events as well as how music plays and has played a role in our relationship with god in gospel music, jazz, blues and R&B.
God bless you and continued success to Usher and Chris on this tour. Shout out to the fans as well.
The highly anticipated and long awaited Raymond and Brown, the R & B Tour kicks off in Denver, Colorado tomorrow, Friday, June 25,2025 at the Empower Field.
Eager fans, well respected titans and old school influencers of the industry have been commenting about this historic tour for months including Jermaine Dupris who's comment was motivating and deferential. He shared it in his customary laid back style. It can be found here on YouTube:
Note- Please excuse the link malfunction. I am experiencing technical difficulties at this time of posting by way of glitch or hackers. Hopefully, things will be back to normal soon. In the meantime, you can catch this update on the related YouTube channel at the following link:
Native New Yorker mult-platinum, multi-Grammy Award winning , r&b-pop music mega star Alicia Keys, joined City officials including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on the platform outside City Hall and performed her very popular hit song "Empire State of Mind: before an enthusiastic crowd of New York Knicks fans.
Jay-Z having earned by street cred, record sales, numerous Grammy awards and accolades, recognition as the "greatest rapper of all time", headlines the popular Roots picnic today and tomorrow. He is celebrating the 30 year anniversary of the studio release of his debut album "Reasonable Doubt".
According to news reports 80,000 are expected at the venue and ticket sales have soared. Other stars joining the line-up include Erykah Badu, Brandy, Kehlani, rapper T.I., DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jermaine Dupri and Friends, Mariah the Scientist and more. See the following poster for a full list:
I'll be following for updates on the possibility of a live stream of the event. In the meantime catch a video update which will include some commentary on the performances, well wishes and prayers for the pinic organizers, musicians and attendees.
Chris Brown joins a select group of r&b, Hip Hop and Rap artists who have received honorary doctorates distinguishing themselves over the years for outstanding contributions to their fields. Brown who has been blazing a trail in the arts with his grafitti art, film, video productions, dance and music for decades has won a number of awards including Grammys, American Music Awards, BET Awards, and an NAACP Image Award. This latest honor was bestowed upon him by Harvest Christian University located in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Again, a very warm congratulations!
Others receiving this honorary bestowal at various educational institutions throughout the years include:
Usher: Received an honorary doctorate of music from Emory University.
Missy Elliott: Received honorary doctorates in music from both Berklee College of Music and Norfolk State University.
Queen Latifah: Received an honorary doctorate of fine arts from Rutgers University.
LL Cool J: Received an honorary doctor of arts from Northeastern University.
Chance the Rapper: Received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Dillard University.
Finally had a chance to listen to the entire album and enjoyed a good number of the songs. While perusing both the fan, critic reviews and opinions regarding Chris Brown's latest album release "Brown", one question stood out amid often glowing and mixed reviews. The question was "What Chris Brown era did you like best? I thought that was a really important question. It definitely resonated with me. Because Brown has 12 studio albums under his belt and many songs as a prolific songwriter and collaborator with other songwriters and has recorded several deluxe albums. Some albums containing nearly 27 songs on a single release.
If you have been following the artist since his career began with his debut album release self-titled "Chris Brown" on May 29, 2005, there are some differences in musical styles as well as vocal changes throughout the years that are as captivating as they are thought and concern provoking.
There are subtle and sometimes patent variations in both his vocal and musical styles. Depending on the era, the delivery and tenor of the lyrics and predominant themes are distinctive from the early career days or as some have come to refer to it as the "Young Chris Brown" era. Some changes are of course to be expected as a young teen star grows and matures into an adult superstar. But innate talents, energy/auric fields, dancing gifts and other unique qualities that becomes a star's signature and presence don't vary that much once adulthood is reached and they project a certain image. It becomes or is unique as the fingerprint.
Motivated and inspired by some of his earlier songs from the Young Chris era like "Run It", "Excuse Miss", "With You" I decided to listen to songs from his extensive discography and the video interpretations of those songs leading up to his current album. Because I don't think you can do "Brown" justice unless you review the music through a comprehensive musical lens. I didn't listen to the albums in chronological order. Instead I began my sound variation listening journey with the 7th studio album "Exclusive" containing "With You", "Kiss Kiss", "Forever" three of his most recognizable songs from that disc. It earned a quadruple platinum certification by the recording academy and charted highly on the Billboard charts. All three songs are high energy love songs in different tempos. They give a good window into the quality and variety of the sounds. None are as sexually explicit and graphic as some of the songs that follow on subsequent releases.
Now, fast foward to F.A.M.E.,which Chris explained in an interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America was an acronym for the phrase "Forgiving All My Enemies" and in the alternative, "Fans Are My Everything". His 4th studio album soars and is the perfect combination of sensitively, beautifully crafted, acoustic passionately and purely sung love songs like "All About You", "Next to You"(feat. Justin Beiber), All Back, "Up to You"
Here are several examples of how the limelight can be analogized to my original archived inspirational blog post in some recent pop culture media updates or made reference to in a song.
I recently came across an inspirational video on Instagram in which Kanye West performed this rap song:
with his customary panache backed by a full orchestra in which he makes reference to leaving the 'limelight' behind.
The song packs a powerful punch and makes an enlightening impact, almost a rags to riches but-not-what-I-really wanted-or-expected kind of vibe with soaring music and street cred beats as a backdrop. It makes one wonder if the rapper became disillusioned when he interjects the sentiment of leaving the limelight behind or is just giving it a passing thought.
Also, there was a recent Chris Brown shooting news report and his alleged response to it indicating he did not know anything about it. Was the report of that incident the celebrity media mania and attention clamoring machine at play with acceptable fabrications or the real truth?
and the report about a shooting at Rihanna's home a few weeks ago. What was that really all about?
These kind of reels and happenings make us concerned genuinely about the state of our culture and the spread of information. Is it real or fake? These artists who give so much of themselves to our entertainment, while impacting society and our youth who often emulate and admire them.
Let's keep them and our news media lifted in prayer.
I am lifting up this blog post from the archives to inspire and encourage.
From the archives-Originally published in 2008. Written in 1999-2000. Handed out as a flyer at a Church event where I promoted Limelight one of my original homemade blessed oil and fragrances.
It seems almost everyone and everything wants to be thrust into the "limelight" so often reserved for luminaries,celebrities and others of notable accomplishment.In fact,the desire is so pervasive,that some invent monumental incidents and blessed events to keep the light shining on them.The need for exposure is somehow linked to and in direct correlation with the amount of daily,monthly and annual income or attention-if that's what pays the rent-can be raked in.
John Mccain's presidential campaign ad,(view here), which aims to ridicule as it also attempts to lessen the wattage of phenomenally popular and skilled Commander in Chief hopeful,Barack Obama, only underscores the celebrity-esque frenzy which has overtaken much of our daily thought. Taken a step further, the celebrity craze has all but redefined social and political behavior patterns, grotesquely saturating our culture.
The media is constantly dishing out the Britney or Paris scoops of the day. So much of today's reality gets distorted and manipulated in the wake of this mania. Of course,the drawback is that the truth becomes the "flavor of the day".Whatever illusion,puff or artifice can draw in the crowd,the votes or the ratings is valued over straightforward fact.
Well,I was digging in my archives this morning and "serendipitously" came across a meditation which I wrote over eight years ago,which I find extremely relevant today.Below is a slightly revised version. I am sharing it today in celebration of a "limelight" that is more intense than any man made light,stardom or celebrity that could ever be shined or veered in your direction.
It is really where the light is...As the saying goes,"real talent will out".So will the limelight of the Holy Spirit.
I dedicate it to all my special friends out there.You may find the audio version here.
"The Limelight"
"God is blessing you with all the favor of the "limelight".What is the "limelight"? Webster defines it as...a brilliant light created by the oxidation of lime and formerly used in theatres to throw an intense beam of light upon a particular part of the stage,a certain actor,etc.,a part of a stage where a limelight or spotlight is cast,a prominent or conspicuous position before the public.
The limelight,if you will, of the Holy Spirit is blessing you today and everyday with this kind of brilliant favor in every aspect of your life.It is shining the light on your gifts so you can see them more clearly.When you see them with clarity,you will experience a revelation, a sort of "instantaneous inventory" and realize that God has already given.
It is up to you to step out on faith and share these precious gifts with the world.You are multi-talented and may have a gift or two that needs dusting off.You may even feel the need to pray and ask God to stir them up.
If by chance you have been sitting on a goldmine of creative assets which you have not fully actualized,now is as good a time as any to come out of waiting and go for it. Step out of the shadows of others and come more fully into the light. Bask in the blessings of God's limelight,invisible to the human eye, yet the illumination to the consciousness is perceived and experienced in such a manner,it makes all other lights dim in comparison.
So,come on out and bask in the blessings of God's limelight,full of all the love,wealth and peace you can ever imagine.Here are some brief pointers to help you along the way:
Love
Give as much love as you can without being fearful of rejection and not getting enough in
return.Don't cut off the flow of this divine and miraculous energy.With love,strong and
healthy relationships are molded.Love your neighbor,relying and trusting in God for
divine returns.
Wealth
Make the most of what you have.True wealth is giving thanks for what God has
already provided and for what you expect God to provide based on your faith in God
as the source of all your supply.Tap into the abundance that is all around,that fills the earth with every need.
It is already here. Man only makes the limitation and division.But you can rise above when you use your gift.It is unique to you.Don't waste this precious resource.It is a diamond in the rough.Continue to mine for the treasure,developing and exploiting what God has already supplied.
Health
God is blessing with good health everyday.But if you are experiencing a health
challenge pray,know and trust that God's creative healing power will get you
through.Give thanks for all the days that you have been well and that all of your organs
have been working efficiently to keep you alive and healthy.Tap into the energy of life and
vibrancy all around. Experience the indescribable blessing of the air,the plants,the
wind,the earth and the seas.Breathe it in and feel whole as an integral part of the miracle of
creation. "
Share this with someone you love.Be blessed and enjoy the day.
"This little light of mine,I'm gonna let it shine..."
Love,
Cynthia
P.S. Special thanks to my E-Angel❤️
Copyright 2000-2008 Cynthia D.Wilson
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While it was recently announced that $1 from each ticket purchased from the upcoming Raymond and Brown, R&B concert tour will be donated to FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, both Usher and Chris Brown have been contributing to the Global and local communities over the years in admirable ways. Each one of them has enriched the lives of artists and youth through various community enrichment, support and outreach programs of their own. Usher already serves as a Global Citizen Ambassador and will continue his commitment to that project on this tour. For more information about FIFA Global Citizen Fund click here and view the video.
Usher recently in partnership with Big Sean contributed a million for a start up that invests in the creativity of Detroiters. Its a space where they can go to create podcasts paint, design in an arts and music studio at Michigan Central a newly renovated train station in Detroit.
The Detroit R & B concert is scheduled for July 2 and 3 at Ford Field. Pre-sale concert tickets are currently live and tickets go on sale officially April 27. For more information about what you need to do to be added to a list, get ticket codes or to purchase, click on this link.
Usher also has been quietly grooming and training up and coming artists for years through his foundation's special training program. Many of the artists we know. Once they go through the program they return as instructors and mentors to the new trainee artists, investing 15 million of his own money. See more in this Instagram post by Prime Source Media here.
Chris Brown has been active in a number of special youth programs throughout the years in the Los Angeles area donating clothes, gym shoes, hugs and basketball moves at a High School's Unity Day in particular. To get a glimpse of these past events, view the YouTube video, Funny Chris Brown. The Crenshaw event is halfway through the video.
He was honored with an award from the 2nd Call organization in 2014 for spreading hope. Check out an archived post from his archives. More recently Breezy lost one of his dancers and committed to take care of her child. The dancer passed away several months ago. See more here.
Just a reminder and brief vignette of those god has blessed with fortune, fame and favor and how they give and have given back to the community. Two brothers who made good became famous, made fortunes and do good works we don't often hear about,see, or read about in the news broadcasts.
Its important to spread the good news of celebrities and others who are doing good things and give credit where it is truthful and due.
Miracles do happen and this long awaited tour by fans is coming together with the quickness, velocity and magnitude of Chris Brown and Usher Raymond's combined dynamism and their impact on r&b and pop culture over two decades. Check out the high energy video announcement that was prepared for the concert. The anticipation of this event might even surpass the excitement generated by the public relations roll out of a coveted Superbowl appearance that Brown fans have been long clamoring for, though Usher has had his glory and triumph on that stage.
While all systems appear to be go, many concerned fans are praying and sending healing thoughts out to Chris Brown who has been rumored to have had some pretty serious health challenges in the past noteably during the last leg of the XX tour. This recent tour announcement, now official, has instead set the minds of many fans and tour officianodos at ease and filled them with gladness that Chris is well enough to meet this coming commitment. However, Brown has a tight team and very talented stand-ins at the ready to step in and meet the demands of his fans when necessary. Though many want to see Brown and know for sure how he is actually doing and what his prognosis is.
Though it's not customary, a nice sweet biographical vignette and "where are they now?"on each replacement/sub in a concert booklet would be very timely and definitely educational. Inquiring minds want to know. Celebrate their support of Chris and their contributions to that extraordinary Chris Brown legacy. All want and deserve their due recognition. Histories and backgrounds have their place.
Peace would most assuredly be the outcome. Can I get a witness? An amen?
God bless all involved and godspeed this tour. My prayers and well wishes to real R&B titans Chris Brown, Usher Raymond, their teams and their sea of fans.
Kanye West, now known as Ye, makes an extraordinary comeback catapulting the Rap genre into the stratosphere with an out of this world light show on top of fantastic stage displays, appearing almost holographic, of planet earth and its moon with amazing performances by himself and guest artists including Lauryn Hill, Zion Marley, Travis Scott and daughter North West before sold out audiences of 80,000 over two nights in one of LA's largest concert venues. Other artists appearing over the span of two nights on different days were Cee Lo Green, Andre Troutman and YG Marley.
It is estimated that Ye raised a record 33 million from ticket sales alone from what some critics have described as a cultural takeover.
Two of the corporate sponsors decided to bail out when they learned they were backing Ye. Obviously because of his past media antics promoting Nazis, putting down Jews and making outlandish remarks about some of his closest friends and allies like Hova and Beyonce. However, Ye went back to all apologizing, receiving acceptance from a Jewish rabbi, forgiveness from Jay-Z and begging for forgiveness for his mistakes, blaming his erratic behavior on a traumatic brain injury he experienced, the result of a car crash he had been involved in years ago. We all remember that. He had to have his jaws re-wired and could not talk or eat any solid food for months.
For more information on Ye's journey on the road to seek forgiveness for past transgressions that led to his being ostracized by his peers, the Jewish community and allegedly banned from concert appearances in the US, watch the following Instagram reel by long time friend, Grammy and Emmy Award winning producer Malik Yusef at this link.
For more history about past incidents that have resulted in Ye being called out on the carpet for his behavior towards fellow recording artists like Taylor Swift concerning a Grammy award win dispute involving Beyonce and ultimately forgiven by Swift see my prior blog post at the following link:
Chris Brown's interview by Robin Roberts of Good Morning America marking the release of his Grammy Award winning album F.A.M.E revealed a focused, considerate and thoughtful artist who explained what fame meant to him as he elaborated on the special meaning of the punctuated initials appearing on the album cover art work. He responded that the initials stood for "Forgiving All My enemies" and in the alternative and with emphasis "Fans are My Everything".
At the beginning of the interview Roberts began a line of questioning that sought to probe his relationships and controversial incidents occuring in the past. Brown rather quickly responded that he was there to talk about the album, the music and rather candidly veered away from that topic.
As I reflect on the Brown discography on this 15 year anniversary of the F.A.M.E. album, which is one of my favorites by Brown and could be characterized as an upbeat compilation of songs that you could easily imagine being acted out as segments of a movie storyline or sung as compositions in the soundtrack of a Broadway play.
While the movie "One Battle After Another" walked away with the most awards including Best Picture and Best Director wins, Sinners and K-Pop put on one of the most colorful and mesmerizing musical performances during the Academy Awards. Both movies also made history and stood as proud beacons of their communities during their performances and when accepting their awards.
Sinners received a standing ovation from the audience after performing the original movie soundtrack song "I Lied to You" in a spellbinding kaliedoscopic real time montage that presented as a vibrantly surreal mix of ethnic dancers, Blues singers, guitarists, African dancers and a singular ballet performance by Misty Copeland who came out of retirement and recovery from a recent hip replacement surgery to be among the performers. The innovative horror movie won a total of 4 Oscars. Michael B. Jordan picked up his first Oscar for his brilliant portrayal of two characters as twins. The movie also won for Best Original Score with long time friend and fellow collaborator Swedish ____, Best Original Screenplay for Director and writer Ryan Coogler. Cinema photography with a history making win for Afro-Philippino the first female to ever win in that category.
Good news Detroit youth and broader community. Thanks to the generosity of two very high profile musicians, a new media hub has opened at the historic and recently renovated Michigan Central Station. Usher and native Detroiter Big Sean combined their resources and contributed $1,000.000.00 to the project. For more information visit this link and check out the background story on You Tube:
Last night's Grammy show was an amazing platform on which artists united in a powerful demonstration of the importance and power of the First Amendment. The freedom to speak one's mind freely without hesitation or fear of reprisal. Last night the reverberations were in protest of Ice. Freedom of Speech is a right that has made the US envied around the world and is one of the primary reasons that thousands of immigrants flock to our country yearly.
The truth flowed eloquently whether it was a very short sentence by Billy Eilish who stated "You can't be illegal on stolen land", Bad Bunny's "Ice Out" followed by "love is more powerful than hate, including a reminder that "we are human, we are American." The cameras switched across the audience and zoomed in on what appeared to be a very proud faced Gloria Estefan who looked genuinely pleased about what he was saying.
Shaboozey's prepared speech extending gratitude to his mother an immigrant who worked three jobs to support him and his four siblings was an emotional moment for him as tears streamed from his eyes.
Kehlani who received her first award ever, the Grammy for Best R&b performance, mentioned the power of all the voices coming together and concluded with an expletive deletive "f... Ice."
Olivia Dean who picked up a Grammy for Best New Artist mentioned how she came from a family of immigrants and they should be recognized for their bravery.
It was a good show. Trevor Noah did a great job hosting. The interlude between him and Bad Bunny where he got him to sing along in Spanish was priceless.
That memorial tribute to D'Angelo and Roberta Flack curated-led by Lauren Hill and the other artists who have passed on the year past was brilliant, very stunning, spiritually and musically uplifting. They took us to church--Lela Hathaway, October London, Bilal, John Baptiste, Chaka Kahn and John Legend. Check out the videos on YouTube:
Pharrell Williams received the Dr.Dre Global Impact Award for 2026:
Other performances to check out that were memorable in their own right. Leon Thomas picked up a Grammy for his song MUTT which I understand Chris Brown's vocals influenced and were featured on.
Btw,that was a very soulful performance of Yukon by Justin Beiber. I was just a little surprised by his attention grabbing sleek attire. He only wore shorts and socks. Here's an explanation behind his outfit at this link.
Iconic producer and humanitarian Pharrell Williams was awarded the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards show held at the Crypto.com arena in Los Angeles, California. Pharrell a partner of the production team the Neptunes has been producing hits with icons like Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z and other notable Rap and Hip-Hop recording artists for decades.
He was Co-Director, a keynote speaker, and among the performing musicians at the Grace for the World concert held at the Vatican last year in September. Also performing were Andreas Boccelli, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Clipse, Angelique Kidjo, Teddy Swims, Jelly Roll and others. Full list of those performing at the Grace for the World Concert at the Vatican, the concert sponsors, and the occasion for the musical celebration can be found at the link below:
https://share.google/aimode/6tMVmlk3KVI4dlKbC
For more information about the concert, check out the You Tube video at this related post.
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards take place on Sunday, February 1,2026 at the Crypto Arena in Los Angeles. Trevor Noah is hosting again this year.
Special Grammy pre-show celebrations and honors have taken place during the week leading up to Sunday's biggest night in music. Music Cares person of the year is Mariah Carey. She was celebrated for her philanthropy and career achievements at their annual gala that was held on January 30, 2026. Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Footnote Fighters and Charlie Puth were among the artists who participated in a beautiful song tribute, re-imagining her songs in their own styles.
In her speech Mariah encouraged artists and the puublic to continue giving to the Music Cares foundation because artists need care and they need community. She also stated "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be here with all these
magnificent artists singing my songs back to me, infusing them with
their own artistry and giving them all new life. This has given me
life.”
Two new award categories were established this year, Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover.
Some of the nominations in popular categories are listed below:
Best R&B Song
For new vocal or instrumental R&B recordings
Heart Of A Woman
Summer Walkerst R&B Song
Folded Darius Dixson, Andre Harris, Donovan
Knight, Don Mills, Kehlani Parrish, Khris Riddick-Tynes & Dawit
Kamal Wilson, songwriters (Kehlani)
Heart Of A Woman David Bishop & Summer Walker, songwriters (Summer Walker)
It Depends Nico Baran, Chris Brown, Ant Clemons, Ephrem Lopez Jr., Ryan Press, Bryson Tiller, Elliott Trent & Dewain Whitmore Jr., songwriters (Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller)
Overqualified James John Abrahart Jr, Durand
Bernarr, John Derisme, Egberto "Budda" Foster, Amaire Johnson, Frank
Moka, Cary Singer & Chase Worrell songwriters (Durand Bernarr)
YES IT IS Jariuce Banks, Lazaro Andres Camejo,
Mike Hector, Peter Lee Johnson, Rodney Jones Jr., Ali Prawl & Leon
Thomas, songwriters (Leon Thomas)
Olivia Dean KATSEYE The Marias Addison Rae sombr Leon Thomas Alex Warren Lola Young
Song Of The Year
Abracadabra Lady Gaga, Henry Walter & Andrew Watt, songwriters (Lady Gaga)
Anxiety Jaylah Hickmon, songwriter (Doechii)
APT Amy Allen, Christopher Brody Brown, Rogét
Chahayed,Omer Fedi, Philip Lawrence, Bruno Mars, Chae Young Park, Theron
Thomas & Henry Walter, songwriters (ROSÉ, Bruno Mars)
DtMF Marco Daniel Borrero, Scott Dittrich,
Benjamin Falik, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, Hugo René Sención
Sanabria, Tyler Spry & Roberto José Rosado Torres, songwriters (Bad
Bunny)
Golden — From KPop Demon Hunters EJAE,
Park Hong Jun, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo
& Mark Sonnenblick, songwriters (HUNTR/X: EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI
AMI)
Luther Jack Antonoff, Roshwita Larisha Bacha,
Matthew Bernard, Scott Bridgeway, Sam Dew, Ink, Kendrick Lamar, Solána
Rowe, Mark Anthony Spears & Kamasi Washington, songwriters (Kendrick
Lamar With SZA)
Chris Brown traveled to London, England to appear before Judge Tony Baumgartner in the Southwark Crown Court for a pre-trial hearing ahead
of his trial for an alleged bottle attack at a London nightclub in 2023. He was greeted by a crowd of enthusiastic fans and took the time to graciously sign autographs before entering the courthouse. He responded vocally to their warm reception by stating "God bless you."
Brown's jury trial is scheduled October 26, 2026. The trial is based on allegations that he attacked a former friend at the Tape private members’ club
in Mayfair.
Keeping the situation and Chris lifted in prayer. Hoping that all will work out for him as the trial date approaches. He has nine months to prepare with his legal team.
Meanwhile, his is up for two Grammy Awards in two categories this year for his song "It Depends with Bryson Tiller.
Nominees for 2026 IHeart Radio Music Awards were announced several days ago with an array of talent nominated across a variety of genres and categories,including Best Artist,Best Song, Best R&B artist, Best Pop Artist, Best New Artist, The show will broadcast from the Dolby Stadium in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 26th at 8pm ET live (PT tape-delayed) on FOX. The show
will also be broadcast on iHeartRadio stations across the country and on
the iHeartRadio app.
IHeart has generously opened up new award categories this year including Favorite Broadway Debut, Favorite TikTok Dance, Favorite Debut Album,
Best Lyrics, Best Music Video, Favorite On Screen, Favorite Tour
Photographer, Favorite Soundtrack, Favorite Tour Style, Favorite Tour
Tradition and Favorite K-pop Collab.
Social voting begins on January
8th, and will close on March 19th at 11:59pm PT for all categories. Fans
can vote by visiting iHeartRadio.com/awards.
Speaker of the House, Hakeem Jeffries proudly announces big win in the House of Representatives concerning the passage of Affordable Care Act tax subsidies, vital health care benefits affecting the price of n̈ coverage that had been tied up for months by opposition from across the aisle.
