The Giant Blast

Black Vibes: Urban Contemporary is a novel that first made waves in 2000 and is now preparing for a 25th anniversary re-release. What do you think gives the story its staying power, and why do you feel it still resonates so deeply with readers today?W.R. Franklin:  I think the book has staying power because the subjects that the book touches on are timeless and universal. Marital issues, unrequited love, self-esteem, love at first sight, and jealousy have been around forever, and they're still a part of people's lives.Black Vibes:  Your literary voice is both poetic and emotionally grounded-how did your personal experiences shape the narrative arc of Urban Contemporary, and how much of yourself do you see in the characters?W.R. Franklin:  What's funny is that when I wrote UC, and I let people read the original handwritten pages, they would always say, "Man, that's you! You're Chuck Deville." And I'd respond with "I don't have a Mercedes; I don't live in a penthouse..." But it was obvious from the start that this was all my story, tricked out with poetic license. I am Chuck Deville.Black Vibes:  Reintroducing a novel after 25 years is a rare and powerful accomplishment. How has your perspective as a writer evolved since its original release, and what new energy are you bringing to this anniversary edition?W.R. Franklin:  Regarding writing, my perspective hasn't changed too much. When I wrote UC, it was therapeutic. I was in a bad marriage, and I was depressed. I was inspired to write to get out of the depression, so I did it for me. Fast-forward to now. In his book The Creative Act, Rick Rubin said, "When you make something truly for yourself, you're doing the best thing you possibly can for the audience." That statement confirmed that way of thinking for me.Any new energy for the 25th anniversary is being put towards promotion. I have been asked if I am adding any new twists to the book for its anniversary, but I'm not. I may give it a new cover, if anything. But the story will remain the same. Black Vibes: You've been gaining well-deserved recognition across platforms like Blacktopia, The Media Blast, and an impressive list of podcasts. How does it feel to see your work and your story being embraced by so many media outlets at this point in your journey?W.R. Franklin: It's "trippy." UC has been a part of my life for 25 years, so it's wild to see people excited about something that I am so used to, if that makes sense. At first, I felt regretful that I didn't do any promotion for it back in 2000 (I had no idea how to promote), but I can't change the past, so now I embrace the present and look forward to the future.

TO BE CONTINUED - LOOK FOR PART TW

Every era has that one producer who shifts the entire soundscape - and right now, that name is Kashy Baby. More than a beatmaker, he's an architect of emotion, fusing Trap R&B, Melodic Soul, and futuristic sound design into lush, cinematic worlds that captivate both artists and listeners alike. Born into a lineage of rhythm and soul - with a singer for a mother and a percussionist father - Kashy Baby absorbed the DNA of every groove from Gospel to Funk. Now, he channels that musical heritage into a modern renaissance, creating immersive sound textures that feel as alive as they are innovative.His debut instrumental EP "SideQuest" proved just how deep his artistry runs - amassing over 170,000 Spotify streams and catching the attention of tastemakers worldwide. From collaborations with Icey Da Gr8, Samu lli L on, and MODERNGHOST, to his anime- and video game-inspired soundscapes, Kashy Baby isn't chasing trends - he's defining them. Each beat he crafts feels intentional, layered with the confidence of a visionary building a legacy brick by brick. ??
???? Experience his world now - follow @Kashy.Baby and stream his catalog on Spotify. The next evolution of Trap R&B starts here.

For Media and Press inquiries concerning producer Kashy Baby contact Jonathan Coleman for The Media Blast PR via email at Info@TheMediaBlast.net

When raw lyricism meets the vivid imagination of anime storytelling, something revolutionary happens. Florida's own Icey Da Gr8 proves that hip-hop can be both emotional and epic with his latest release, Protagonist, Pt. 1, now streaming on all platforms. Backed by producer Kashy Baby's atmospheric soundscapes, Icey delivers a collection of tracks that blur the line between music and motion picture - each verse feels like a hero's journey through pain, ambition, and transformation. The energy of tracks like "Black Bull" instantly transports listeners into Icey's universe, where every bar carries the grit of survival and the glow of self-mastery.Far from your average rap project, Protagonist, Pt. 1 is a bold declaration of purpose - an anthem for dreamers, fighters, and main characters writing their own stories. Drawing inspiration from anime classics like Naruto and Black Clover, Icey Da Gr8 channels the emotional weight of these worlds into songs like "Unrequited," where heartbreak and hope collide. This isn't music chasing trends; it's music chasing truth. With sharp lyricism, cinematic beats, and a message rooted in resilience, Icey Da Gr8 cements himself as one of hip-hop's most visionary young voices.?? Stream "Protagonist, Pt. 1" now and step into Icey Da Gr8's universe of courage, pain, and lyrical power.
?? Follow him on Instagram: @IceyDaGr8
?? Media & Press Inquiries: Info@TheMediaBlast.net

For more than two decades, Chicago lyricist Abdullah has been one of hip-hop's most powerful and unapologetically conscious voices-spreading truth, unity, and the fire of Black pride through his art. Now, as he closes this chapter of his musical legacy, Abdullah releases his final and most impactful project to date: Race First Theology, dropping October 16, 2025, on all major streaming platforms to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Million Man March.More than an album, Race First Theology is a movement of sound and soul, a poetic doctrine of Black empowerment, spiritual awakening, and cultural reflection. Every bar carries the essence of legacy, blending sharp lyricism with deep purpose as Abdullah calls listeners to think, build, and rise together. This isn't just his farewell-it's his final gift to the culture. ???? Stream and follow Abdullah's final album Race First Theology here:
???? https://abdullah.hearnow.com/race-first-theology

Social Media Links:https://facebook.com/abdullah1184ilhttps://youtube.com/sarpy11https://instagram.com/gisclikhttps://x.com/gisclikhttps://tiktok.com/abdullah1184il
For Media and Press inquiries concerning Abdullah, contact Jonathan Coleman for The Media Blast PR via email at Info@TheMediaBlast.net

Ms. Eye'z Sets the Stage Ablaze with Her Breakout Hit "Sugar"In a world where countless voices fight for attention, Ms. Eye'z rises above the noise with brilliance and authority. Her single "Sugar" has become a standout anthem, holding a prime-time slot on 168 Radio's Wednesday Night Winner's Circle for nearly two months straight-a rare achievement that reveals both the power of her artistry and the staying power of her sound. DJs can't get enough of it, and industry insiders are calling her one of the most promising new names in independent music today.But Ms. Eye'z is more than just a singer-she's a complete musical architect. As a producer, pianist, and songwriter, she builds her records from the ground up, infusing each note with raw emotion and precision. That fearless versatility is now catching the attention of promoters nationwide, eager to bring her energy to live stages. For those seeking authentic talent in an industry crowded with imitators, Ms. Eye'z isn't just another rising artist-she's a leader in the making, destined to command respect wherever her music is heard.?? Stream "Sugar" on 168 Radio: 168 Radio Live (Wed Night at 6:00 PM Eastern)
?? Follow Ms. Eye'z on Instagram: @mseyez

For Media and Press inquiries concerning Ms. Eye'z please contact Jonathan Coleman for The Media Blast PR via email at Info@TheMediaBlast.net 

In this prestigious Black Vibes Spotlight, we proudly honor Libby Williams-an accomplished actress, model, and brand ambassador whose vibrant career celebrates the divine strength, beauty, and brilliance of Black womanhood. With a powerful mission to uplift and connect women through the "each one teach one" philosophy, Libby is more than a performer-she is a force of empowerment. Her platform gracefully honors the feminine journey in all its phases, recognizing women as ever-evolving goddesses created in the divine image.Libby's growing filmography speaks volumes of her talent and dedication, with standout roles in Diamonds and Pearls, The Clean Up, Heartless Outlaws, and many more. She represents several esteemed brands with unmatched elegance and integrity, solidifying her reputation as a trusted ambassador and cultural influencer. Whether on screen or in the community, Libby Williams continues to redefine excellence, grace, and purpose in entertainment and beyond.

Follow Libby on Facebook at 

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FVE3BChH6/

For Media and Press inquiries concerning Libby Williams please contact Jonathan Coleman for The Media Blast PR via email at Info@themediablast.ne

The Earn Your Wings Book and Speakers Tour honors National Crime Victims' Rights Week with a series of transformative events across North Carolina, beginning with a Virtual Kickoff on April 6, 2025. This powerful global gathering will unite survivors, advocates, and community leaders to share testimonies, foster healing, and promote justice through storytelling and impactful dialogue. Events will continue throughout the week, including a National Hybrid Storytelling Vigil in Fayetteville (April 10), a vibrant Healing Festival in Charlotte (April 11), and an empowering Self-Defense & Community Resource Fair Cookout (April 12) aimed at supporting survivors and underserved communities.Backed by a national VOCA subgrant, the Earn Your Wings Tour is a prestigious platform that elevates the voices of crime survivors and bridges the gap between communities and the justice system. With upcoming stops in Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Texas, Louisiana, and New York, the tour continues its mission of advocacy, empowerment, and crime prevention. For more details or to get involved, visit the Earn Your Wings Tour Linktree or find tickets via Eventbrite

W.R. Franklin is a literary powerhouse whose influence extends across multiple creative disciplines, from fiction writing to digital media. Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, he has forged an exceptional career as an author, screenwriter, editor, and publicist, blending his artistic ingenuity with strategic communication expertise. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing for Entertainment and a Master's in Public Relations from Full Sail University, Franklin has mastered the delicate balance between crafting compelling narratives and engaging audiences on a profound level. His ability to seamlessly transition between storytelling mediums makes him a dynamic force in the entertainment and literary landscapes.His debut novel, Urban Contemporary, originally released in 2000, left an indelible mark on modern fiction, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-discovery with remarkable depth. Now, as it approaches its milestone 25th anniversary re-release in November 2025, a new wave of readers will have the opportunity to experience Franklin's groundbreaking work. His thought-provoking fiction has also been featured in Down in the Dirt magazine, while his incisive music critiques have been showcased on PopMatters.com. With an unmatched ability to weave compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences, Franklin continues to push creative boundaries, solidifying his legacy as an influential voice in contemporary literature.

Urban Contemporary 
https://amzn.to/4lnO09E

For Media & Press inquiries concerning W.R. Franklin please contact Jonathan Coleman for The Media Blast PR via email at Info@TheMediaBlast.net

Victoria S. English: The Rising Star from Charleston Making Her Mark in FilmHailing from the historic Lowcountry of Charleston, Victoria is an actress of remarkable depth and charisma, seamlessly transitioning from a life immersed in sports to the captivating world of film. A proud alumna of Winthrop University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Management, she embraces the phrase, "Former Athlete turned Actor," as a testament to her journey. Her passion for storytelling and human connection led her to her breakout role as Paris in The Girls from Ridgewood, a gripping, female-led murder mystery that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. A true social butterfly, Victoria thrives on adventure, cherishing the diverse personalities she encounters both on and off set.Deeply inspired by childhood memories of watching films with her mother and aunt, Victoria's love for cinema was solidified by Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family, igniting her dream of acting. Her enthusiasm for the craft has only intensified, and she now eagerly steps into the role of Autumn, a fierce and enigmatic Taker, in the highly anticipated film Pretty Girls Kill. With an undeniable presence both in front of and behind the camera, Victoria's star continues to rise, and her journey in the entertainment industry is one to watch.

Follow Victoria on IG.Instagram: @queenvic_tori_
IMBD: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm15838827/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

Article by Jonathan Coleman of The Media Blast PR 
Info@TheMediaBlast.ne

Aunti Kris, affectionately known as "Aunti," is a revered media personality and dedicated mentor whose impact resonates deeply within the community. As the esteemed host of the widely acclaimed radio podcast Make It Make Sense w/ Aunti on BFAM 109.6FM, she captivates an audience of over 196,000 listeners with thought-provoking discussions and empowering insights. Beyond the airwaves, she is the visionary behind the Make It Make Sense w/ Aunti Youth Mentor Service, a program devoted to guiding and uplifting the next generation. With a background in psychology and a passion for preserving the innocence of childhood, Aunti Kris is not only a voice of reason but a pillar of strength, wisdom, and inspiration for all who seek guidance in navigating life's complexities.

Contact Information for Aunti Make it Make Sense w Aunti- Facebook Group656-216-1373 Facebook: @auntikrisMake it Make Sense w Aunti Facebook Group TikTok: @auntikris IG: @auntikris  YouTube: @aunti_mims (Make It Make Sense W/ Aunti - YouTube)
Website: http://Makeitmakesensewaunti.com Admin@makeitmakesensewaunti.com
 auntimims | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree