Entertainment
Valentina Sampaio Becomes First Trans Model For Sports Illustrated
Valentina Sampaio has become the first transgender model to be featured in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit issue. The Brazilian model will appear in the magazine’s upcoming issue, which will release July 21.
Pascal Le Segretain / Getty Images
In honor of making history, Sampaio published an essay on Sports Illustrated’s website thanking the publication as well as raising awareness for trans rights issues in her home country.
“Brazil is a beautiful country, but it also hosts the highest number of violent crimes and murders against the trans community in the world — three times that of the US. Being trans usually means facing closed doors to peoples’ hearts and minds,” she wrote.
“We face snickers, insults, fearful reactions and physical violations just for existing. Our options for growing up in a loving and accepting family, having a fruitful experience at school or finding dignified work are unimaginably limited and challenging. I recognize that I am one of the fortunate ones, and my intention is to honor that as best I can.”
In 2019, Sampaio was hired as Victoria Secret’s first transgender model. She’s also worked with Marc Jacobs, Dior, and H&M, as well as appeared on the cover of Vogue Paris, Vogue Brasil, and Vogue Germany.
[Via]
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
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.
-
Artist Spotlight4 days agoDan Webb creates a captivating reflection on change with “Hungry Ghosts”
-
Artist Spotlight5 days agoWyn Calico create the need to support with his latest release “Support”
-
Artist Spotlight4 days agoJoseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard confront lingering fear on “The Shadow Remains”
-
Artist Spotlight4 days agoFrench Inhaler explores desire and disconnection through “TV LOVE”
-
Album Review4 days agoR3b3l I explores self-discovery through sound on “A Different Frequency” album
-
Artist Spotlight4 days ago“Signalling Signatures” finds Mr Pigeons exploring dreams, truth, and hidden meanings
-
Artist Spotlight5 days agoT.Scales picks up speed with explosives on new release “Ooh Wee”
-
Artist Spotlight5 days agoKojo Kay Takes Us On A Colorful Ride With “OVERTURE TO SOMEWHERE”

