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(ThyBlackMan.com) Mahmoud Khalil could have been cooked up in a lab to offend — no, worse — to disgust me. And yet, despite temptation, I cannot endorse what the Trump administration is doing to him. Based upon the postings of his group, Columbia University Apartheid Divest, Khalil, who was born in Syria, seems to hold grotesque opinions. CUAD, a leader of the anti-Israel protests on Columbia’s campus, has cheered the […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) The world of British pop and R&B lost an influential voice with the passing of Stedman Pearson, one of the core members of the 1980s group Five Star. As a singer, dancer, and performer, Stedman played a crucial role in shaping the group’s dynamic presence and musical legacy. While Five Star was a collective force, Stedman’s contributions—both vocally and stylistically—helped the group reach international fame. Though Five Star as […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) Suffering an injury at the hands of someone else’s negligence often brings several huge costs. Medical bills and lost wages, along with ongoing care, can pile up very fast and leave victims struggling to survive. Personal injury laws in Texas enable a person to recover losses from an accident through economic damages. These damages address the tangible monetary consequences of an accident or injury and offer a way to […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) Few voices in R&B possess the power, soul, and emotional depth of Johnny Gill. As the sixth and final member of New Edition, Gill added a mature and soulful dimension to the group. Beyond that, his solo career solidified his place as one of the greatest vocalists of his generation. He was also part of LSG, the supergroup with Gerald Levert and Keith Sweat, further showcasing his ability to […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) Few artists in music history have demonstrated the longevity, versatility, and influence of Diana Ross. As the lead singer of The Supremes, she played a pivotal role in shaping the Motown sound, catapulting the group to international success. Following her departure from the group, Ross embarked on a remarkable solo career that solidified her status as one of the most celebrated vocalists of all time. Her catalog spans a […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) My grandfather’s first cousin was Lieutenant Colonel Howard Lee Baugh. Cousin Howard was part of the 99th Pursuit Squadron, the first unit of the Tuskegee Airmen. This month marks the 84th anniversary of the activation of the Squadron at Chanute Field in Rantoul, Illinois, about 120 miles southwest of Chicago. A few years ago, I sat with my friend Norman Lear, the late TV legend behind shows like All in the […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) The reggae world is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished voices—Cocoa Tea—who passed away at the age of 65. Known for his smooth voice, uplifting messages, and undeniable contribution to reggae music, Cocoa Tea was a beacon of kindness and generosity. His music touched millions, delivering messages of love, social justice, and spiritual wisdom. Even with his passing, his legacy lives on through his timeless catalog, […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) Ella Fitzgerald, often referred to as the “Queen of Jazz,” was a powerhouse vocalist whose influence on the jazz and popular music scene remains unparalleled. With a voice that could convey both intricate technicality and heartfelt emotion, Fitzgerald transformed jazz standards into timeless classics. Whether through her iconic scatting, delicate phrasing, or effortless vocal agility, her recordings continue to resonate with music lovers today. Here are ten of Ella […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) Few voices in the history of music have carried the elegance, warmth, and sophistication of Nat King Cole. His velvety baritone, impeccable phrasing, and ability to evoke deep emotions made him one of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century. Whether it was jazz, pop standards, or heartfelt ballads, Cole had the ability to turn every song into a timeless classic. Even today, his music remains as relevant […]

(ThyBlackMan.com) The past few years saw a rich conversation in the United States surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programming, in the wake of the political turnover, and ensuing backlash to that turnover in society. We see irony in the phrase “the pot calling the kettle black” when leaders who previously advocated for an inclusive society begin working against the very ideals they championed. The saying is especially applicable when […]