Host: Clifton Powell

Clifton Powell is a seasoned American actor and comedian, celebrated for his versatile performances across film, television, and stage. Born on March 16, 1956, in Washington, D.C., he has built a prolific career spanning over four decades. Powell is best known for his roles in films such as Ray, where he portrayed a pivotal character alongside Jamie Foxx, and as the memorable ‘Pinky’ in the Friday franchise. He has also made significant contributions to television, notably as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, Lord, Selma, and in series like Saints & Sinners and The Family Business.

A graduate of Emerson College, Powell’s career began in theater, where he honed his craft before transitioning to screen roles. He is recognized for often portraying complex, villainous characters, bringing depth and authenticity to his performances. Throughout his career, Powell has received several accolades, including NAACP awards, highlighting his impact in the entertainment industry. In addition to acting, he is passionate about teaching and mentoring aspiring actors, aiming to give back to the community that supported him.

Co-Host:

Cocoa Brown

Cocoa Brown, born Farah Brown, is an American actress, writer, and comedian known for her roles in television series such as “For Better or Worse” and “The Single Moms Club.” She has gained recognition for her comedic talent and performances, often drawing from her life experiences. Brown is also celebrated for her engaging stand-up comedy, showcasing her unique perspective and humor. Additionally, she has a significant presence on social media and YouTube, where she shares her comedic content and personal stories.

Kellita Smith

Kellita Smith is an accomplished American actress, model, and comedian, best known for her role as Wanda McCullough on the FOX sitcom The Bernie Mac Show (2001-2006). Born on January 15, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, she began her career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Smith has appeared in numerous television shows, including Living Single, Sister, Sister, and Z Nation, and has received multiple NAACP Image Award nominations for her performances. In addition to her television work, she has acted in films such as Roll Bounce and King’s Ransom and continues to be active in the entertainment industry.

Omar Goody

Omar Goody is a talented artist known for his unique blend of music and visual art. He has garnered attention for his innovative approach, which often incorporates elements of storytelling and cultural commentary into his work. Goody’s artistic vision is characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, reflecting his diverse influences and experiences. He aims to connect with audiences through his art, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes he explores.

Omar Wilson

Omar Wilson is an American R&B artist from Norwalk, Connecticut. He has been performing since the age of six, starting with solo performances at Norwalk’s Calvary Baptist Church. As a teenager, Wilson developed skills in both rap and hip-hop as a member of the group Lost Souls in North Carolina.

Wilson’s music is influenced by classic soul artists such as Sam Cooke, Donny Hathaway, and Marvin Gaye, as well as more contemporary artists like Lauren Hill and Mary J Blige. His style bridges the gap between Hip Hop and Soul, drawing from his personal experiences growing up in an urban environment.

Wilson has released several musical projects, including mixtapes like “Pieces of The Product” and “The Product.” He has also collaborated with other artists, notably DMX on the track “Faith!” which received positive reviews for its inspirational message and Wilson’s soulful vocals.

Kevin Davidson

Kevin Davidson is a gospel artist from Memphis, Tennessee, known for his role as a pastor, singer, and songwriter. He leads the contemporary gospel choir Kevin Davidson & The Voices, formerly known as Kevin Davidson and the Voices of Binghampton. The choir, which formed in 1988, is recognized for its energetic gospel music and has received nominations for both Stellar and Dove Awards. Davidson’s discography includes albums such as “It’s Possible,” “Celebrate,” and “Overflow,” showcasing his ability to blend traditional gospel with contemporary sounds.

Darrel Darnell Petties

Darrel Darnell Petties, born on December 17, 1983, in Memphis, Tennessee, is an American gospel musician, worship leader, and pastor. He is known for his contributions to urban contemporary gospel and traditional black gospel music, performing with his choir, Strength in Praise. Petties gained recognition with his debut album, Count It All Joy, released in 2006 under EMI Gospel, which featured hit songs like “Yes Lord” and “Thank Ya Jesus,” both of which charted on the Billboard Gospel Songs chart. In addition to his music career, he serves as the pastor of Mount Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church in Olive Branch, Mississippi, continuing a family legacy of ministry. Petties remains active in the gospel music scene, with his latest album, New Season, released in 2018.

K. P. & Envyi

K.P. & Envyi is an American R&B and Hip Hop duo from Atlanta and Charlotte, consisting of Khia Phillips (K.P.) and Susan Hedgepeth (Envyi). They rose to fame in the late 1990s with their hit single “Swing My Way,” which peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieved Gold certification from the RIAA. The song’s success on various international charts, including the UK and New Zealand, propelled the duo to prominence. However, their career beyond this hit proved challenging. After their initial success, both members pursued individual projects, with Envyi later changing her stage name to Sioux Lane and releasing a solo album in 2009. Despite their limited discography, K.P. & Envyi’s influence persists, with “Swing My Way” being sampled by artists like Bryson Tiller and J. Cole. The duo reunited in 2011 for a performance at the A-Town Legends Concert in Atlanta, cementing their place in R&B and Hip Hop history.

Arrington Foster

Arrington Foster was born and raised in Clinton, Maryland. Growing up Arrington was heavily involved in theater as a child and in college appearing in many of plays and musicals such as The Wiz, Annie, Footloose, A Chorus Line, etc. He has a Bachelor’s of Arts in Theatre with a minor in Communication Studies from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX. In 2015, Arrington moved to Los Angeles, CA to further pursue his acting career in film/television. In 2018, after appearing in a few commercials, short films, student projects, and web series, he got the role of playing Rio Duncan on the hit BET show Carl Weber’s The Family Business. Arrington is excited to see where his bright future in Hollywood will take him.

Lenny Williams

Lenny Williams is an American singer known for his powerful, soulful voice. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, he rose to prominence as the lead singer of Tower of Power from 1972 to 1975. After leaving the group, Williams pursued a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums and scoring hits like “‘Cause I Love You” and “Choosing You.” His emotional delivery and range have made him a respected figure in R&B and soul music.

ROME

Rome (sometimes stylized as ROME), an American R&B singer. He gained recognition in the 1990s with his smooth vocals and romantic ballads. While specific details are limited, Rome has contributed to the contemporary R&B scene.

Michel’le

Michel’le Denise Toussant, born on December 5, 1970, is an American R&B singer who rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She is known for her distinctive high-pitched speaking voice, which contrasts with her strong singing voice.

Michel’le’s career began when she was featured as a vocalist on World Class Wreckin’ Cru’s 1987 single “Turn Off the Lights”. Her self-titled debut album, released in 1989 and produced by Dr. Dre, included her highest-charting hit “No More Lies,” which reached No. 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Public Announcement

Public Announcement is an American R&B group formed in Chicago in 1989. They are best known for their work with R. Kelly at the beginning of his career, featuring on his debut album “Born into the 90’s.” The group continued to release music after parting ways with Kelly, achieving success with songs like “Body Bumpin’ (Yippie-Yi-Yo).”

Glenn Jones

Born in Jacksonville, Florida in 1962, Jones was part of the gospel group The Modulations from the late ’70s until 1980 when he appeared on Norman Connors’ Billboard-charting R&B single “Melancholy Fire.” Jones made his solo debut with 1983’s Everybody Loves a Winner, featuring the funk-inclined hit “I Am Somebody.”

Gary “Lil G” Jenkins

Gary “Lil G” Jenkins is an American musician, singer, and actor best known as the lead singer of the R&B group Silk. Here’s a brief description of his career and accomplishments:

Gary Jenkins was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and began singing in church at age 7. He joined Silk in 1992 after auditioning for Keith Sweat’s new R&B group. With Silk, Jenkins achieved significant success, including the hit single “Freak Me,” which reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100. The group sold over 5 million records during his tenure.

Changing Faces

Changing Faces is an American female R&B duo formed in New York in the 1990s. Consisting of Cassandra Lucas and Charisse Rose, the group is known for their harmonies and hit songs like “Stroke You Up” and “G.H.E.T.T.O.U.T.” They achieved significant success in the mid-1990s, blending contemporary R&B with elements of hip-hop.

Stacey Merino

Stacey Merino has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over three decades. With an impressive portfolio, he has secured 15 major recording contracts and showcased his talent in 29 countries around the globe. Notably, he made a memorable appearance on the legendary Apollo Theater stage in 1987, further solidifying his status as a seasoned artist.

T.J. Hooker-Taylor

T.J. Hooker-Taylor is an American singer and songwriter known for his contributions to the R&B and soul music genres. He gained recognition for his smooth vocal style and engaging performances, captivating audiences with his heartfelt lyrics and melodies. T.J. Hooker-Taylor has released several singles and albums, showcasing his talent and versatility as an artist. His music often blends traditional R&B with contemporary influences, appealing to a wide range of listeners. With a growing fan base and a commitment to his craft, T.J. Hooker-Taylor continues to make an impact in the music industry.

Uncle Luke

Luther Roderick Campbell, known professionally as Uncle Luke (also Luke Skyywalker or simply Luke), is an influential American rapper, promoter, record executive, and actor. Born on December 22, 1960, in Miami, he is best known as the former leader of the rap group 2 Live Crew.

Trillville

The three members of Trillville met as high school students in Atlanta. Glaze led the snare drums in the school’s marching band, Don P wrote rhymes and produced beats on his keyboard, and Edwards was an aspiring promoter. They named their group “Trillville” combining the words “truth” and “real”, with ” Prince “, Glaze “Dirty Mouth”, and Edwards “Lil Atlanta”.

The Showboys

The Showboys are a two-man rap group from Queens, New York, composed of Orville “Bugs Can Can” Hall and Phil “Triggaman” Price. They recorded several singles for Profile Records in the mid-80’s, including a song called Drag Rap (Triggerman) in which a twisted tale of revenge-seeking gangsters unfolded over a richly syncopated beat.

Kinfolk Thugs

Kinfolk Thugs is a Memphis, Tennessee-based rap duo made up of GC Eternal and Tyme Bomb. The pair released several independent mixtapes before releasing their 2008 single “Dumptruck”, which went viral. The song is also known as “Back It Up and Dump It” or “Dump Truck [Back It Up and Dump It]”.

After a long hiatus, Kinfolk Thugs returned in 2024 with the EP Back to Business.

Golden Brooks

Golden Brooks is an American actress born on December 1, 1970, in San Francisco, California. She’s best known for her role as Maya Wilkes on the UPN/CW sitcom “Girlfriends” (2000-2008), which earned her two NAACP Image Award nominations. Brooks has appeared in various films and TV shows, including “Linc’s,” “Timecode,” “Beauty Shop,” and “I Am the Night.” She has a strong academic background with degrees from UC Berkeley and Sarah Lawrence College. Her career spans over two decades, showcasing her versatility in both comedy and drama. Recently, she starred in the 2023 coming-of-age comedy series “Saturdays,” continuing to demonstrate her range as an actress.

LisaRaye McCoy

American actress and model best known for her dynamic roles in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her performance as Diamond in the 1998 film “The Players Club,” which showcased her talent and charisma. McCoy starred in the popular television series “Single Ladies” from 2011 to 2015, where she played a lead role that further solidified her status in the entertainment industry. Her early career included appearances in sitcoms such as “Moesha” and “In the House.” Beyond acting, McCoy has ventured into fashion and entrepreneurship, launching her own clothing line and serving as a producer on various projects. She remains an influential figure in Hollywood, known for her advocacy work and contributions to the arts.

Keith Robinson

He began his career in comedy in the early 1990s, gaining recognition for his stand-up performances and appearances on shows like “Def Comedy Jam.” Robinson has written for and appeared in various television series, including “Apt. 2F” and “Crashing.” He is known for his roles in films such as “Trainwreck” (2015) and “The King of Staten Island” (2020). Despite facing significant health challenges, including two strokes, he made a successful return to comedy and released a Netflix special titled Keith Robinson: Different Strokes. Robinson is regarded as a mentor to many younger comedians, including Kevin Hart, and continues to perform regularly at venues like the Comedy Cellar in New York City.

Nov 01

Iconic Black Tie Gala

Nov 02

Stomp the City Celebrity Day Party

Nov 03

Iconic Plaza Street Party

Nov 03

Stomp the City Iconic Awards Show