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Long before becoming a household name as Fred G. Sanford on the hit sitcom Sanford and Son , comedy legend Redd Foxx had already lived a life full of grit, hustle, and unconventional decisions. One of the most surprising stories from his early years comes from World War II, when Foxx famously dodged the draft in an unusual—and dangerous—way. According to accounts, Redd Foxx avoided military service by eating half a bar of soap before his physical examination. The risky stunt gave him severe heart palpitations, leading doctors to reject him from serving in the war. While extreme, it was a calculated move that kept Foxx out of combat and allowed him to continue pursuing his dreams in entertainment. Born John Elroy Sanford in St. Louis, Missouri, Foxx was already hustling to make a living as a teenager. By the time America entered World War II, he had no interest in leaving behind his ambitions. His draft dodge wasn’t just a wild story—it was a reflection of the lengths he was willing to go to stay in control of his future. Of course, the gamble paid off. Redd Foxx went on to become one of the most influential comedians of his era, paving the way for generations of performers with his raw humor, fearless storytelling, and later his groundbreaking role on television. The soap story has since become part of the folklore around Foxx, a reminder that behind the laughs was a man who lived life entirely on his own terms—sometimes recklessly, but always unapologetically.

Atlanta’s own Taylor Jasmine has just dropped her highly anticipated new single, “Between Us” , further solidifying her place as a rising star in today’s music scene. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Taylor Jasmine is a gifted singer/songwriter whose artistry shines through her ability to blend R&B, Pop, and timeless emotion into a sound that feels both refreshing and classic. With “Between Us” , Taylor takes listeners on a heartfelt journey that highlights her smooth vocal delivery and raw authenticity. The track carries an emotional weight that connects instantly with listeners, reflecting the kind of soul-stirring storytelling that has become her signature. As she continues to carve her path, Taylor Jasmine stands out not only for her voice but for her ability to create music that resonates with real-life feelings and experiences. Her fusion of soulful melodies and modern production sets her apart in an industry that often lacks true vulnerability. Fans and new listeners alike can expect Taylor Jasmine to make a lasting mark with “Between Us”  and beyond. Stay connected with Taylor Jasmine and her musical journey by following her on Instagram @cravetay

The Jackson family’s story is one of incredible success, but behind the fame and fortune were also struggles, conflicts, and painful decisions. One of the most emotional chapters came in 1983 , when Joe Jackson—the father who had managed his children’s careers since the beginning—was officially fired as their manager. Michael Jackson, the most successful of Joe’s children, was also the first to part ways with his father’s management. When Michael turned 21 in 1979 , he gained legal control over his career and quickly dropped Joe as his manager. By this point, Michael was already preparing to embark on his groundbreaking solo journey, which would soon lead to the release of Off the Wall  and the record-shattering Thriller . Michael’s decision marked the beginning of a shift within the Jackson family business. His brothers would soon follow. By 1983 , tensions had reached a boiling point. The Jackson brothers, who had achieved worldwide fame as The Jackson 5  and later as The Jacksons , decided collectively to end Joe Jackson’s role as their manager. For decades, Joe had been at the helm, pushing his sons from their humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to Motown superstardom. But the strict, often harsh methods Joe used—along with his controlling grip on the group—had caused growing resentment. The brothers wanted independence, both personally and professionally. When the decision was made, Joe Jackson reportedly cried , devastated by the reality that his sons no longer wanted him guiding their careers. For a man who had built his identity around managing his children’s success, the firing was more than a business move—it was deeply personal. Joe Jackson’s role in the success of The Jacksons is undeniable. Without his relentless drive, discipline, and vision, the world may never have known the Jackson 5—or seen Michael Jackson rise to become the “King of Pop.” Yet his legacy is complicated, as many of his children have spoken openly about the emotional and physical toll of his parenting and management style. The 1983 firing symbolized both a painful family rift and an important turning point: the Jackson brothers taking control of their own careers, and Michael setting out on the path that would make him the biggest entertainer in history. For Joe, it was a loss that brought him to tears, showing that even behind the tough exterior, the decision cut deep.

In the 1990s, Samuel Monroe Jr.  became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces in urban cinema—not because audiences loved him, but because of how convincingly he played some of the most hated characters on screen. Known for his menacing presence and ability to fully embody controversial roles, Monroe often found himself typecast as the villain, the troublemaker, or the character you couldn’t help but despise. His performances were so believable that many viewers admitted they struggled to separate the man from the roles he played. Monroe’s filmography throughout the 1990s is a testament to his impact on the culture. He starred in classic films such as: Menace II Society  (1993) Tales from the Hood  (1995) Set It Off  (1996) The Players Club  (1998) On television, he appeared in hit shows like Out All Night  (1993) and NYPD Blue  (1996), further solidifying his presence during one of the most influential decades in Black film and TV. Although Samuel Monroe Jr. was often cast in roles that made audiences despise his characters, it was a reflection of his undeniable talent. He had the rare ability to make fictional characters feel real, and in doing so, he left an imprint on viewers that has lasted for decades. Today, Monroe is often remembered as “one of the most hated actors” of the 1990s—but not because of who he is in real life. Instead, it’s because he delivered such powerful performances that audiences completely bought into his on-screen personas. The 1990s were a golden era for films that explored the realities of urban life, and actors like Samuel Monroe Jr. helped bring those stories to life with authenticity and intensity. While his roles weren’t always celebrated by audiences, his work contributed to some of the most iconic movies of that decade. Love him or hate him on screen, there’s no denying that Samuel Monroe Jr. left his mark on cinema. His legacy proves that sometimes being “the most hated” simply means you did your job too well.

Florida’s music scene has a new voice buzzing through the streets, and his name is Block Blism . With the release of his latest track “Like You Mean,”  the rising artist is showing exactly why he has what it takes to be the next star out of the Sunshine State. “Like You Mean”  is raw, energetic, and authentic—everything you’d expect from an artist hungry to claim his spot. Block Blism’s delivery is sharp, his flow demands attention, and the track is already sparking conversations among fans who believe he’s next up. Florida has long been a breeding ground for breakthrough talent, and Block Blism is proving he’s ready to carry that tradition forward. His unique sound and undeniable confidence set him apart, making it clear that this is just the beginning of something bigger. The question is— what y’all think?  Is Block Blism the next big star to put Florida on the map once again? Follow him on Instagram @blockblism777  and stream his new single “Like You Mean”  now.

South London’s own Sasha Keable  is quickly becoming a name to know in the music world. With her Colombian roots and soulful voice, she’s been carving out her lane, blending smooth R&B with a fresh and modern touch that sets her apart from the crowd. Sasha has already earned the attention of some major names, including Beyoncé  and Leon Thomas , the latter of whom she collaborated with on her single “Move It Along.”  Another standout track, “Night Off,”  continues to showcase her ability to deliver music that’s not only relatable but also deeply resonant with fans of authentic R&B. Her sound is refreshing yet timeless, drawing from influences of classic soul while still pushing forward with contemporary flair. With her charisma and undeniable talent, Sasha Keable feels like the kind of artist destined to rise from underground buzz to global recognition. If you haven’t already tapped in, now is the time. Stream Sasha’s singles “Night Off”  and “Move It Along”  featuring Leon Thomas on all platforms, and keep up with her journey by following her on Instagram @sashakeable .

Before the world knew her as Whoopi Goldberg , she was Caryn Elaine Johnson, a young woman from New York City with big dreams and an even bigger personality. Over the decades, she transformed not only her name but also her career, becoming one of the most recognizable and respected entertainers in Hollywood. Caryn Johnson adopted the stage name “Whoopi” from the novelty whoopee cushion , a nod to her naturally comedic and unfiltered personality. The surname “Goldberg” was suggested by her mother, who believed that having a Jewish-sounding last name might help her career in the entertainment industry. Together, the name “Whoopi Goldberg” was born—and it quickly became unforgettable. Whoopi first broke through in the early 1980s with her one-woman stage show, where she showcased her sharp wit, versatility, and ability to embody a range of characters. Her unique talent caught the eye of director Steven Spielberg, who cast her in The Color Purple  (1985). Her performance as Celie earned her an Academy Award nomination and established her as a serious actress capable of handling dramatic roles as well as comedy. Throughout her career, Goldberg proved her range with memorable performances in films like Ghost  (1990)—which won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress— Sister Act  (1992), and its sequel. Her success not only made her a household name but also one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award . Whoopi Goldberg is more than just an actress—she’s a brand. Beyond her film and television work, she has written books, launched businesses, and become a fixture on daytime television as a co-host of The View . Her candid, often humorous takes on culture and politics have kept her relevant for multiple generations. She has also built a reputation as a strong advocate for social justice, women’s rights, and representation in Hollywood, using her platform to push conversations that matter. Caryn Johnson’s transformation into Whoopi Goldberg is more than a name change—it’s a story of reinvention, determination, and authenticity. She carved her own path in an industry that often overlooked Black women, becoming not only a star but also a cultural icon. From a struggling comedian to an EGOT-winning actress and talk show personality, Whoopi Goldberg has shown the power of staying true to yourself while never being afraid to evolve.

Rising talent Bri3  is making waves yet again, this time with the release of her brand-new music video “Off Me.”  The visual showcases not only her undeniable charisma but also her consistency as an artist who refuses to let up on her grind. From the moment Bri3 steps into the frame, it’s clear she carries the presence of a star. “Off Me”  captures her raw energy and lyrical delivery, further proving why she’s someone the music industry needs to start paying closer attention to. Every drop from Bri3 feels intentional, and her ability to stay consistent while elevating her craft has already turned many listeners into believers—including us. With each release, Bri3 solidifies her place as one of the most promising new artists to watch. If the industry hasn’t caught on yet, it’s only a matter of time before her talent can’t be ignored. Make sure you follow Bri3 on Instagram @tharealbri3  and watch her new video “Off Me”  out now.

We mean, technically—he had a point. In one of the most bizarre legal arguments in recent history, an Iowa prisoner named Benjamin Edward Schreiber  claimed that he had already served his life sentence—because he briefly died. Schreiber, convicted of first-degree murder in 1997 for the brutal killing of 39-year-old John Dale Terry with a pickaxe handle, was serving a life sentence without parole at the Iowa State Penitentiary. His conviction stemmed from a 1996 crime near Agency, Iowa, and his appeals over the years had consistently failed. But in 2015, Schreiber developed severe kidney stones  that led to septic poisoning. He was rushed to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, where his condition deteriorated. According to CNN, Schreiber’s heart stopped, and doctors had to revive him five times  using adrenaline and epinephrine. Despite having signed a “do not resuscitate” order, medical staff resuscitated him to stabilize his condition. In 2018, three years after his near-death experience, Schreiber filed for post-conviction relief. His claim? That his life sentence had technically ended the moment his heart stopped. Since he had been “dead,” he argued, the state had fulfilled its obligation, and he should be set free to “get on with his life.” The argument made its way to a three-judge panel, but unsurprisingly, the courts were not convinced. A district court dismissed the claim, and the Iowa Court of Appeals affirmed the dismissal in 2019, stating that Schreiber was “either still alive, in which case he must remain in prison, or he is actually dead, in which case this appeal is moot.” While Schreiber’s claim was creative, it ultimately failed to persuade the justice system. He remained in custody until his death on April 7, 2023 , at the age of 70, from natural causes at a hospital in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Though unsuccessful, Schreiber’s argument has become a fascinating—and somewhat darkly humorous—footnote in American legal history. It raised philosophical questions about the interpretation of a “life sentence” and demonstrated just how far some prisoners will go in search of freedom. For Schreiber, however, the courts made it clear: dying briefly didn’t mean his life sentence was over.

Richmond, Virginia continues to show off its rising talent, and CGlizzayy is proving why he’s one to keep an eye on with the release of his brand-new visuals for “Pay Me.”  Shot by the talented @jwmotionpictures, the video brings CGlizzayy’s energy and raw delivery to life, showcasing his unique style and growing presence in the music scene. With “Pay Me,”  CGlizzayy delivers a hard-hitting performance that reflects both his hunger and determination as an artist. The visuals match the intensity of the track, further cementing his ability to create music that connects with fans while putting Richmond on the map. CGlizzayy is quickly building momentum, and “Pay Me”  is another step forward in his journey to solidify his name in the industry. Make sure you follow @CGlizzayy on social media and check out his new video “Pay Me”  out now.

New Orleans East is continuing to show its talent with the release of JoceMan’s brand-new album “Summer Dayz.”  The project features 10 tracks filled with energy, smooth vibes, and authentic storytelling that showcases why JoceMan is quickly becoming an artist to watch. The album includes standout collaborations with PhnxMunn and Wav3y, who bring their own flavor to the project while highlighting JoceMan’s versatility as both a songwriter and performer. With its mix of feel-good anthems and relatable records, “Summer Dayz”  captures the essence of summertime while also proving that JoceMan has the consistency and creativity to rise in today’s music scene. For fans of authentic music that blends New Orleans culture with fresh sounds, JoceMan is definitely an artist you should add to your playlist. His unique style and dedication to the craft make “Summer Dayz”  a must-hear project. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @dj_white03  and stream “Summer Dayz”  now on all platforms.

In 1966, the NFL shocked the sports world when it handed the keys to its newest franchise, the New Orleans Saints, to a 26-year-old oil heir named John Mecom Jr. At the time, he became the youngest owner in league history. What followed was a chaotic experiment that nearly destabilized the league—and ultimately changed how the NFL selects its owners forever. A Bid Born from Oil Money and Politics Mecom wasn’t a self-made businessman. His fortune came from his family’s oil empire and his deep political connections. With the NFL and rival AFL locked in a bitter battle for dominance, New Orleans was seen as a crucial market to win political support for a merger. The league promised the city a franchise, and when Mecom came forward with a record $8.5 million bid—outbidding the next closest offer by $1.5 million—he was handed the team with virtually no vetting. Building a Team Overnight The problem? Mecom had less than 10 months to build an entire organization from scratch. That meant finding a head coach, establishing training facilities, hiring staff, and assembling a roster of more than 40 players before the Saints could even take the field. Predictably, the results were rough. The Saints’ debut season ended with a 3–11 record. Still, New Orleans fans, thrilled simply to have football in their city, remained fiercely loyal. But beneath the surface, Mecom’s ownership was already sinking under the weight of poor management and mounting debt. The Oil Bust and Financial Trouble When the oil crisis hit in the 1970s, Mecom’s personal wealth collapsed. He struggled to finance the team, and whispers grew among NFL owners that the league had made a mistake. Eventually, the pressure became too great. In 1985, after nearly two decades of frustration, Mecom sold the Saints for a record $70 million. A Legacy That Changed the League Mecom’s troubled tenure left a permanent mark on NFL ownership rules. Not long after his departure, the league introduced strict financial safeguards to prevent another such fiasco. Today, NFL owners must meet strict debt limits—currently capped at $1.1 billion—and have at least 30 percent of the purchase price in cash. The result: unless you’re a billionaire, you will never own an NFL team. John Mecom Jr. may have been a young visionary to some, a reckless heir to others, but his turbulent years as Saints owner reshaped the business of professional football forever.