Latest news with #UltimateIcon
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'80s Funk Icon, 72, Dazzles With Rare Red Carpet Appearance
'80s Funk Icon, 72, Dazzles With Rare Red Carpet Appearance originally appeared on Parade. Charlie Wilson just proved that being cool is simply part of his DNA. On June 9, 2025, the 25th annual BET Awards lit up the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and among the evening's most anticipated appearances was that of the R&B/funk legend. Known for his timeless style and charismatic presence, Wilson, 72, did not disappoint, delivering a rare and unforgettable red carpet moment. For the star-studded event, the former lead singer of The Gap Band—affectionately known as 'Uncle Charlie'—arrived in a striking ensemble that blended classic sophistication with contemporary flair. He wore a tailored black tuxedo adorned with shimmering metallic patterns, catching the light with every movement. His look was complemented by a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie, exuding the polished elegance befitting a music icon. Adding his usual finishing touch, the "Outstanding" artist sported sleek sunglasses, completing his look for the dazzling night out. On social media, the legendary musician noted that he was attending the function in support of Snoop Dogg, who received an Ultimate Icon award, in addition to Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin, and Jamie Foxx. "Honored to be here supporting my nephew @snoopdogg@bosslady_ent 💙," the "Charlie, Last Name Wilson" crooner commented on an Instagram post shared by BET, in which he was seen posing alongside Snoop's wife, Shante Broadus.'80s Funk Icon, 72, Dazzles With Rare Red Carpet Appearance first appeared on Parade on Jun 10, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week: Cynthia Erivo, Lexa Gates, Josh Levi, Sammy Virji & More
The 2025 BET Awards dominated the weekend with a remarkable — but incredibly long — show that featured standout performances from breakout stars like Leon Thomas and Ravyn Lenae, as well as stirring tributes to Ultimate Icon honorees Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, Jamie Foxx and Kirk Franklin. More from Billboard Forever No. 1: Sly & the Family Stone's 'Everyday People' DJ Akademiks Denies Taking Payola From Drake During Kendrick Battle Raekwon and Ghostface Killah Release Trailer for 'Only Built 4 Cuban Linx' Documentary Kendrick Lamar was the night's biggest winner, taking home five trophies from 10 nominations, including album of the year for GNX and best male hip-hop artist. The Compton MC surprised everyone by showing up in person to accept his album of the year award, making for one of the ceremony's most thrilling moments. Chris Brown was the only other artist to win multiple awards at the BET Awards' 25th iteration, taking home best male R&B/pop artist and the viewer's choice award for his hit single 'Residuals.' In addition to the four sprawling Ultimate Icon tributes, BET also opted to split their in memoriam segment into thirds. For the first section, Sinners star Miles Caton joined Grammy winner Lucky Daye and Grammy-nominated crooner Luke James for a soulful Quincy Jones tribute. Shortly after, Andra Day delivered a haunting rendition of 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' to honor the late Roberta Flack. Near the ceremony's close, rising country star Brittney Spencer took to the stage for a show-stopping cover of the late Angie Stone's 'No More Rain (In This Cloud).' Both performers at Monday night's show (June 9), Lil Wayne and Amerie made headlines for non-awards-related news. Weezy, who recently dropped a remix of 'Banned From NO' with Nicki Minaj, dominated the weekend's music conversation with his new Tha Carter VI album, which was largely met with a tepid reception from fans and critics alike. Amerie also faced a bit of the Internet's wrath thanks to her spotty NPR Tiny Desk '1 Thing' performance, which she quickly came back from via two performances of her signature hit during BET Week. With Fresh Picks, Billboard aims to highlight some of the best and most interesting new sounds across R&B and hip-hop — from Cynthia Erivo's big solo swing to Sammy Virji and Skepta's eclectic new collaboration. Be sure to check out this week's Fresh Picks in our Spotify playlist below. Somehow, between racking up Oscar nominations as Elphaba in Wicked, guest-starring in Poker Face and hosting the 2025 Tonys, Cynthia Erivo found the time to craft her lush, 20-track sophomore studio LP, I Forgive You. A remarkably subtle record given her reputation for rafter-rattling belts, I Forgive You reaches a scintillating peak about midway through with the soulful standout 'Play The Woman.' Co-written by Erivo, Justin Tranter and Will Wells, 'Play the Woman' finds the Emmy, Grammy and Tony-winning powerhouse opting for a more restrained vocal performance as she paints the guitar-inflected soundscape with vivid pictures of queer love and desire. 'I could run these hands of mine down the map of your spine/ Feel how your heat against my fingertips could make the blood in me rush,' she coos, injecting in each phrase with healthy doses of vulnerability and flirtatiousness. — KYLE DENIS Garage producer Sammy Virji samples Brandy's 'I Wanna Be Down' and Kid Cudi's 'Day & Night' and taps the legendary Skepta to provide a barfest to give us an absolute banger for the summer. Big Smoke's hook is infectious, and his sharp verses show why he's one of the most versatile rappers doing it today. What an absolute banger. — ANGEL DIAZ After spending the last few years pouring into other artists as a writer, Sabrina Claudio turned the mirror back on herself with her freeing Fall in Love With Her project. 'Detoxing' finds Sabs looking to flush away the toxins of an ex who cut her deep. Guitar strings flood the background as Claudio's potent vocals shine through, compared to the more airy texture displayed on other parts of the LP. She told Forbes that 'Detoxing' invokes feelings of nostalgia tied to Coldplay and Avril Lavigne tracks. — MICHAEL SAPONARA A silky, heartfelt ode to infatuation and emotional intimacy, Jon Vinyl's 'Dopamine' is drenched in warmth and sensual energy. From the jump, he lays it all out — this is about being captivated not just by physical beauty, but by a connection that feels both grounding and euphoric. With lines like 'She's a masterpiece, I swear I need it all' and 'My dopamine, the fix I'm looking for,' Vinyl positions this love interest as both his muse and medicine. Lyrically, he blends vulnerability with reassurance, promising presence and protection. 'Dopamine' feels like a late-night conversation wrapped in candlelight, where both people are letting their guards down and simply feeling. — CHRISTOPHER CLAXTON Fresh off his run as an opener on FLO's recently wrapped Access All Areas tour, rising R&B star Josh Levi has unleashed 'Don't Go' from his forthcoming debut studio album, Hydraulic. Built around an interpolation of Destiny's Child's 'No, No, No,' Levi pays tribute to his Houston roots while offering fresh, uptempo R&B across Tone's sleek production. 'Them other n—as can't hold her/ She like her kisses down low, Kelly Rowland/ She got my game controller/ She wanna rewind, never fast-forward,' he sing-raps in the second verse, riffing on DC4's staccato vocal approach and name-checking OG member Kelly Rowland. — K.D. Produced by Chrissianity, Far Rock and Upstate connect for this unorthodox street single with a hook that pays homage to OJ da Juiceman. Flee Lord, Conway and Eto all deliver stellar verses for this track dedicated to digital scales. Make sure you tare it before weighing up. — A.D. Billboard's Hip-Hop Rookie of the Month for March jets into her next era with the piano-driven 'Latency.' Gates taps into how people are lusting for love, but don't dive in to save face and risk being embarrassed — even when they think the connection is palpable. The 24-year-old described the intoxicating track as a 'sexy fantasy of a love left on delay,' which was born out of a situation of her being surrounded by rich old men. 'It's a tale as old as time,' she says. Watch Lexa live out the fantasy of a true romance, taking her from NYC to the Hamptons in the visual. — M.S. 'All Wins All Year' is a triumphant anthem designed to fuel confidence and ambition. Teaming up with R&B heavyweight Eric Bellinger, rising stars SYX, Steven G, and Dom Belli trade verses with ease, showcasing a collective hunger for success and a refusal to settle for anything less. The track radiates self-assurance and camaraderie as each artist boasts about their come-ups while uplifting their circle along the way. 'All Wins All Year' is more than a flex: It's a celebration of perseverance, loyalty and the unstoppable momentum that comes when you move with purpose and surround yourself with winners. — C.C. Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘I've got God in my life, and I've got a queen in my life' Snoop Dogg honors wife in BET Awards speech
While receiving BET's Ultimate Icon Award, Snoop Dogg expressed his gratitude before reminding fans why he earned icon status on stage. Snoop Dogg has long cemented his status as a hip-hop giant and at the 2025 BET Awards, the network made it official by honoring him with the Ultimate Icon Award, recognizing decades of trailblazing contributions to music, entertainment, activism, and community. Though the night was designed to celebrate his accomplishments, the West Coast legend used the moment to shine a light on someone who's been with him since the beginning: his wife, Shante Broadus. 'See, this is why I'm so rock solid,' he said of his wife of 28 years. 'This is why I'm able to deal with all of the things that I'm able to deal with. I've got God in my life, and I've got a queen in my life.' He went on to praise her unwavering loyalty: 'No matter what, she held me down, she hold me down, she's always been there for me. She's always been my everything. That's why she's on stage tonight. That's why she's in my life,' he continued. 'I want to say to those out there that have somebody special in [their] life, don't be afraid. Put them on the front page, let the world see what you got.' Snoop also took time to recognize his family, shouting out his late mother and brother, his boys, his daughter Cori Broadus, and his ten grandchildren, whom he called his 'greatest inspiration.' One of four recipients of this year's Ultimate Icon honor, alongside Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Mariah Carey, Snoop reminded the crowd that icons don't walk alone. Highlighting how each icon has become a part of his family, he also shouted out Charlie Wilson as 'my life coach who kept me at home and showed me how to get my wife back, and, ultimately, get my life back.' In addition to the award, the 'Drop it Like it's Hot' rapper took the stage to perform a medley of some of his discography. From lyrics like ''Me and Dre at the Sofi, that's the only way I sell out,' in his most recent track, 'Unsung Heroes' to his 90s hits like 'Nuthin' but a G'thang' and 'Gin & Juice,' Snoop Dogg reminded everyone exactly who he is in his speech and performance. 'Isn't it ironic how I became iconic off a bag of chronic and some gin and tonic? And the part that makes it all crazy is Death Row is still the label that pays me. Peace and love,' the rapper said, quoting his own lyrics at the end of his acceptance speech. Ultimately, Snoop Dogg shared his utmost gratitude for his fans and their continued support. 'Hip-hop gave me a voice, gave me a purpose, gave me a way out and a way in — into homes, hearts, cultures and countries I never thought I would even touch. Being an icon, it ain't about fame, it's about legacy. It's about what you build, what you leave behind and who you lift up along the way. And this award, it ain't just for me, it's for the homeboys that I lost. For the next generation of artists. For everybody who's still grinding and still believing, so that every young king and queen out there keep pushing. Be original. Be fearless. And above all, be you.' More must-reads: Tyler Perry defends his portrayal of Black women amid the release of 'Straw': 'I'm paying homage' Kendrick Lamar dominates the 2025 BET Awards with the most wins Shaq reveals what still haunts him about Kobe Bryant's death—and why he struggles to show emotion
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lakers' LeBron James reacts to Jamie Foxx's big BET Awards night
The post Lakers' LeBron James reacts to Jamie Foxx's big BET Awards night appeared first on ClutchPoints. At the 2025 BET Awards, emotions ran high as Jamie Foxx received the prestigious Ultimate Icon award—and no one was prouder than LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar took to social media to share his admiration for Foxx's recovery and legacy in the entertainment world. The bond between James and Foxx runs deep. On Monday night, James tuned in to the ceremony at Los Angeles' Peacock Theater, where Foxx was honored for his decades-long contributions to music, comedy, and film. His reaction on X, formerly known as Twitter, quickly went viral. '🫡 @iamjamiefoxx BET 'ULTIMATE ICON'!! Love my brother and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!' James' tweet captured his heartfelt support for Foxx's powerful comeback following a life-threatening health scare in 2023. In an emotional acceptance speech—also shared on social media by The Hollywood Reporter—Foxx reflected on surviving a stroke that left him unconscious for nearly three weeks. Foxx said he saw the 'in memoriam' segment and wondered if he might have been included. His vulnerability resonated with the audience and with James, who has long been a close friend to Foxx. The Lakers legend's reaction on social media showcased more than just support, it reflected how deeply personal Foxx's story is to him. With the Lakers out of playoff contention, James has taken time this offseason to reflect, celebrate his peers, and appreciate those who have impacted his life. Despite turning 40, James continues to defy the odds on the court. In the 2024–25 regular season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, with playoff numbers rising across the board. His emotional awareness off the court matches his elite performance on it. Their connection even extends into film, with Foxx having previously cast James in his unreleased movie All-Star Weekend. Now, the Ultimate Icon award only cements Foxx's influence—something that James clearly values deeply. Foxx's comeback is a powerful narrative of resilience, and The King's vocal support amplifies the moment's cultural weight. In a year where both men faced challenges, their friendship remains a testament to mutual respect, survival, and celebration. Related: LeBron James puts 'no bag' critics on blast Related: Former Laker Byron Scott reveals Kobe Bryant's 'most gangster s**t' ever
Mint
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Snoop Dogg shares gratitude for his wife Shante as he accepts Ultimate Icon honour at 2025 BET Awards
Washington DC [US], June 10 (ANI): Famous rapper Snoop Dogg accepted an Ultimate Icon honour at the 2025 BET Awards. It celebrates "decades of groundbreaking contributions to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact," as per the press release, reported People. Snoop received the honour alongside Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx and Kirk Franklin. Rapper and record producer Dr. Dre introduced his "longtime collaborator and friend" and called him "one of the most prolific artists in hip-hop." He praised Snoop's work in TV and film and said he's "one of the greatest pitchmen ever of all time," according to People. "Every time I turn on the TV, I see Snoop trying to sell something," Dr. Dre added. "He's a special individual, and I recognize that over 30 years ago, when we first met and worked together, his laidback flow, his charm, his innate charisma, along with his ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his roots, is one of the reasons why I love him. He's one of the only artists I know who could go from being the poster child for making violent hip-hop music to the face of the 2024 Summer Olympics," said the rapper. Snoop paid tribute to the other three recipients of the Ultimate Icon Award. He told the crowd how much he appreciated Kirk Franklin's music and how "healing" it was for him and his mother. "I appreciate when you performed at my mother's funeral -- you've been a part of my family, and I'm so honoured to see you get that tonight. So Kirk, love you and your family," said Snoop. He then showed love and support for Foxx, whom he knew "before he had a deal." "[God] was good to you, that's why you're still here," said Snoop, referring to Foxx's near-fatal stroke in April 2023. "And I'm loving what you're doing right now with your girls. You've got queens in your life. You're gonna be alright, " reported People. Snoop then shared his gratitude for his "beautiful wife." "See, this is why I'm so rock solid," he said of Shante, 53. "This i swhy I'm able to deal with all of the things I'm able to deal with. I've got God in my life, and I've got a queen in my life." Snoop continued: "No matter what, she held me down, she hold me down, she's always been there for me. She's always been my everything. That's why she's on stage tonight. That's why she's in my life," reported People. The BET Awards are held in Los Angeles. (ANI)
