Essence

The Grammy Award-winning singer reaches new levels of transparency in her first solo release since 2017. By Okla Jones What is perhaps the most intriguing thing about SZA is her reluctance to step into the spotlight. Similar to another New Jersey-raised singer, she’s a once-in-a-lifetime talent whose output isn’t as frequent as the public would like because she possesses a […]

One of the O.G. reality TV queens, she’s gracing our screens again, showcasing her evolution, as well as the growth of her brood.  By Elizabeth Ayoola Kimora Lee Simmons is a multi-hyphenate who was the blueprint for what it meant to be a boss, doing it all and having it all in the 2000s on TV. She

The album was released 5 years ago today. ByBy Malik Peay Welcome to Keeping It Z, ESSENCE’s column where we touch on and analyze all things Generation Z. In this piece, writer Malik Peay talks about SZA’s debut album, ‘Ctrl’ and what it means to 20-somethings who are finding their way. 5 years have passed since the

The spine-tingling tales woven throughout some of horror’s greatest films have long influenced the rap genre. By Okla Jones Whether it’s the rush of excitement from an unforeseen fright, or a suspenseful scene forever ingrained in cinematic history, scary movies will always have a place in American culture. Over the years, Black artists have drawn inspiration from the

The living legend and cultural icon returns to the literary scene with another moving page-turner. By Bridgette Bartlett Royall While it might appear as though everyone and their cousin has published a book, there are levels to the game. Terry McMillan’s first novel, Mama, hit bookstores in 1987 to massive acclaim, including a coveted American Book Award. Fast-forward to 2025,