The Konnected

Grammy-nominated soul singer Angie Stone died at 63 in a car accident in Montgomery, Alabama, after a performance. Born Angela Brown in Columbia, South Carolina, she began her career with the pioneering female hip-hop trio The Sequence, known for their 1979 hit "Funk You Up." Transitioning to R&B, Stone released her solo debut "Black Diamond" in 1999, featuring the hit "No More Rain (In This Cloud)." Her 2001 album "Mahogany Soul" included the acclaimed track "Wish I Didn't Miss You." Stone also collaborated with artists like D'Angelo and Lenny Kravitz and appeared in films such as "The Hot Chick" and "Ride Along."



via: https://thekonnected.net/angie-stone-passes-away-in-car-accident

Calling all poets! Poetry In Motion is a monthly spoken word competition where the power of your words meets the energy of the stage. Starting January 22nd, six talented poets will perform 10-minute sets each month, competing in categories like Crowd Engagement, Word Play, and Energy.Winners from each month advance to the Finals in June, where the ultimate champion will claim the grand title and amazing prizes (listed on flyer). All performances will be filmed for The Konnected's Poetry In Motion TV Show, giving you a platform to showcase your talent to a broader audience.Signups open now-secure your spot and take your poetry to the next level. Space is limited, so don't wait!To compete click here to sign up January 22. Let your voice be heard!

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS FOR THE SHOW FEBRUARY 27

via: https://thekonnected.net/poetry-in-motion-competition

Unmatched Exposure - Perform in front of a live audience and industry professionals.

Details coming soon. Be ready to grab the mic and own the stage!

via: https://thekonnected.net/calling-all-comedians

After a 22-year hiatus from stand-up, Jamie Foxx has made a remarkable comeback with his new Netflix special, What Had Happened Was..., which premiered on December 10, 2024. This special not only marks his return to comedy but also offers an intimate glimpse into his personal journey, particularly his recovery from a serious health scare in 2023.

A Journey Through the Storm

Imagine navigating through a tumultuous storm, only to emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. This metaphor encapsulates Foxx's experience, as he delves into the challenges he faced during his recovery from a stroke in April 2023. In his special, Foxx combines humor with heartfelt storytelling, providing viewers with both laughter and inspiration.

Unveiling Personal Struggles with Humor

In What Had Happened Was..., Foxx candidly discusses his medical emergency, sharing the emotional and physical hurdles he overcame. He reflects on the support from his family and fans, emphasizing the importance of community during difficult times. Foxx's ability to find humor amidst adversity is a testament to his resilience and comedic genius.

A Blend of Comedy and Music

True to his multifaceted talent, Foxx seamlessly integrates musical performances into his stand-up routine. Collaborating with his daughter Anelise, he delivers original songs that complement his comedic narratives, adding depth and variety to the special. This fusion of comedy and music showcases Foxx's versatility as an entertainer.

Addressing Conspiracy Theories with Wit

Foxx doesn't shy away from addressing the wild conspiracy theories that emerged during his health crisis. With sharp wit, he debunks rumors, including those involving fellow celebrities, turning misinformation into comedic fodder. His humorous take on these theories not only entertains but also sets the record straight.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Supporters

Expressing deep gratitude, Foxx dedicates portions of his special to thank those who stood by him during his recovery. He acknowledges the prayers and well-wishes from fans worldwide, attributing his return to the stage to their unwavering support. This heartfelt appreciation adds an emotional layer to the special, resonating with audiences on a personal level.

Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception

Since its release, What Had Happened Was... has received widespread acclaim for its authenticity and humor. Critics praise Foxx's seamless blend of personal storytelling and comedy, noting that his return is both triumphant and inspiring. The special has quickly climbed the ranks to become one of Netflix's top-streamed shows, reflecting its popularity among viewers.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Resilience

Jamie Foxx's What Had Happened Was... is more than just a comedy special; it's a celebration of resilience, humor, and the human spirit. Through laughter and candid storytelling, Foxx reminds us of the power of perseverance and the importance of finding joy even in the face of adversity. As he aptly puts it, "If I can stay funny, I can stay alive."

via: https://thekonnected.net/jamie-foxxs-triumphant-return-what-had-happened-was

Click here to listen

via: https://thekonnected.net/canada-meets-usa-border-patrol-mixtape-2

The 18th Annual Queen City Awards is just around the corner, and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate another year of honoring the talented individuals in our community. From country stars to hip hop artists, models to radio stations, we are proud to recognize those who have made an impact in the entertainment industry.

This year's event, hosted by Queen City Awards, will feature performances from some of the hottest artists in Charlotte and surrounding areas. With categories ranging from R&B to rock, there is something for everyone at the Queen City Awards.

One of the highlights of the evening is the presentation of the Konnected To Excellence Scholarship Program, where we support the next generation of talent in the entertainment industry. This amazing initiative is made possible by the proceeds from the Queen City Awards, thanks to the support of our loyal audience.

Join us at this year's award show and help us celebrate the creativity, dedication, and hard work of our local performers. Let's come together to recognize and reward those who make our community proud, while supporting a great cause.

via: https://thekonnected.net/the-18th-annual-queen-city-awards

In a world where technology is advancing at lightning speed, the intersection of hip-hop and artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as one of the most exciting-and controversial-developments in music. AI's influence is shaking up the traditional production process, offering new possibilities for artists and producers, while raising questions about authenticity and creativity in the culture.

via: https://thekonnected.net/the-rise-of-ai-in-hip-hop-how-artificial-intelligence-is-shaping-the-future-of-music-production

In an announcement that has left many hip-hop fans surprised and some even disappointed, the NFL has chosen Kendrick Lamar to perform at the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, bypassing one of rap's most influential and enduring figures-Lil Wayne.The decision comes as a shock to many considering Lil Wayne's decades-long influence on the rap game. Having shaped a generation of hip-hop with iconic albums like Tha Carter series and countless hit singles, Wayne has been a force to be reckoned with since the late '90s. His ability to evolve musically over the years, collaborate across genres, and consistently stay relevant makes him, in the eyes of many, a prime candidate for a stage as grand as the Super Bowl.

On the other hand, Kendrick Lamar, a critically acclaimed and award-winning artist, has also earned his place in music history. Known for his lyricism, storytelling, and social commentary, Kendrick's music resonates deeply with a wide audience. His 2022 Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers tour was a huge success, and his performance alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige during the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show was hailed as legendary. His consistent chart-topping albums and cultural impact certainly validate his selection, but Lil Wayne's omission still raises questions.

Some fans argue that Lil Wayne, often considered one of the greatest rappers alive, has contributed just as much, if not more, to the mainstream success of hip-hop as Kendrick. With classic hits like "Lollipop," "A Milli," and "6 Foot 7 Foot," Lil Wayne's catalog is stacked with fan favorites that have dominated the charts. Additionally, his collaborations with other major artists, such as Drake and Nicki Minaj, have cemented his status as a rap mogul. The snub may also spark conversations about generational divides within the music industry. While Kendrick Lamar's music is deeply reflective of today's societal challenges, Lil Wayne's early 2000s dominance might have made some believe his Super Bowl moment has passed. However, this perspective overlooks Wayne's continued relevance, with his recent projects and features proving he's far from a relic of the past.For now, fans of Lil Wayne will have to wait for what seems like an inevitable Super Bowl stage moment. With his iconic legacy, undeniable talent, and massive following, it's hard to imagine the NFL passing up Wayne forever. But for 2024, it's Kendrick Lamar who will carry the torch, taking center stage at one of the most-watched events in the world.The conversation around who deserves the Super Bowl spotlight is far from over, but for many, Lil Wayne's exclusion will remain a hot topic until the NFL finally gives him his due.

via: https://thekonnected.net/lil-wayne-snubbed-for-super-bowl-performance-kendrick-lamar-takes-the-stage

GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion have dropped yet another hit, "Wanna Be," lighting up the summer charts. Their collaboration showcases the power of female artists in hip hop, as they continue to release hit after hit. Megan Thee Stallion, with her confident and bold lyrics, remains a key figure in pushing the boundaries of the genre alongside her peers like Latto and Cardi B.

via: https://thekonnected.net/women-of-hip-hop-glorilla-and-megan-thee-stallion-team-up

Drake continues his dominance in 2024, securing the number one spot as the top hip hop artist of the year. His new track "Push Ups" is a massive hit, solidifying his status alongside the release of his critically acclaimed album. Drake's ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy hooks has kept him at the top of the charts, maintaining his relevance and cultural impact for over a decade.

via: https://thekonnected.net/drake-reigns-as-hip-hops-2024-king