Entertainment

Between The World And Me: Oprah, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Kamilah Forbes, Joe Morton, Alicia Garza And More Talk HBO’s Riveting Special On Race [Video]

Between The World And Me short ‘Relevance and Reflections’ produced by HBO …

This is going to be a very important watch.

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If you haven’t read Ta-Naheisi Coates now-classic book Between The World And Me, then you should take some time over the holidays to buy a copy and dive into it. It’s a gripping and heartbreaking read that chronicles Coates’ life as a child, teenager, college student, and grown-ass man as he grapples with what it means to be Black in America. What it means to grow up in a world that not only doesn’t love your humanity but is actively seeking to destroy it at every turn. To say it’s a page-turner is selling it short. There are so many bars in this book that you’ll be highlighting, re-reading, researching, and calling your friends about it.

Coates has taken the book to the next level via an HBO production that is executive produced by not only himself, but Oprah Winfrey, director Kamilah Forbes, and features talents the likes of Joe Morton, Mahershala Ali, Yara Shahidi, Black Thought and several other notable names.

In this short called Relevance and Reflection, Coates and the other producers talk about what drew them into this project as well as looks at scenes that capture the essence of the writing in Between The World And Me.

If you need a lil’ motivation to begin reading then watch this video and then head to your nearest bookstore to pick up a copy.

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Artist Spotlight

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 makes a stand for afrobeat against corruption on latest release Na Dem feat. Tom Morello.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 deliver a powerful afrobeat statement with “Na Dem,” Featuring Tom Morello and produced by Femi Koleoso. The track has been a fan favourite even before its official release, and comes with the unmistakable spirit of protest, truth-telling, and social accountability that have long characterized Afrobeat’s most impactful moments.

The song’s heart is a direct challenge to corruption and the abuse of power. Instead of singling out one profession or institution for its critique, “Na Dem” identifies a larger culture of dishonesty, targeting bad lawyers, bad doctors, bad politicians, and anyone who would sell their integrity for personal gain. The message is sharp and uncompromising and delivered with the urgency that has become a hallmark of Seun Kuti’s artistry.

The inclusion of Tom Morello adds another level of intensity to the record. His presence adds to the song’s rebellious energy, creating a powerful intersection between the rhythmic activism of Afrobeat and the confrontational edge of rock. The result of the collaboration is a track that is both timeless and of the moment.

The song’s dedication to principle is what rings true. The moral center of the record is Seun’s statement that he would never prostitute his conscience for money. It turns “Na Dem” from a critique into a declaration of personal values, responsibility, and resistance.

Connect with Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

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Artist Spotlight

Marsha Bartenetti reinvents in her own style “New York Minute”

Marsha Bartenetti’s latest release, “New York Minute,” written by Don Henley, Danny Kortchmar, and Jai Winding, offers emotional depth, turning a timeless look at life’s fragility into a reflective, cinematic journey. Stephan Oberhoff’s arrangement perfectly frames Bartenetti’s voice, and Kevin Bate’s expressive cello adds a warm resonance that makes the track feel like a movie.

The way each instrument sounds makes it feel planned, which lets the listener stay in the fleeting moments the song so beautifully describes. Bartenetti’s singing is the best part of the song. She shows an openness that feels real, as if she has lost something and still fully embraces love and presence with complete honesty. Her choice of words and small changes in tone make the lyrics feel even closer.

“New York Minute,” is a new version that pays tribute to the original while showcasing Bartenetti’s own style. The movie-like instruments and heartfelt vocals make the song feel both personal and universal. It makes us think about how hard it is to let go and hold on.

Connect with Marsha Bartenetti on Spotify || Facebook