Entertainment
Hot 107.9’s Birthday Bash has cemented its place as a highlight of the hip-hop calendar, consistently delivering unforgettable performances and electrifying surprises. Known for drawing some of the biggest names in the industry, the event has built a reputation for jaw-dropping moments, often featuring surprise appearances by A-list artists that leave the crowd roaring. Celebrating the vibrant heart of hip-hop culture, the show captures the energy and essence of the genre, uniting music lovers for an experience full of excitement, chart-topping hits, and unmatched community vibes.
Take a look at some of the amazing surprise guests that have graced the Birthday Bash stage over the years!
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We are sad to report that former TV personality Ananda Lewis has passed away at the age of 52, following a brave six-year battle with breast cancer.
Her sister Lakshmi confirmed her passing on Facebook in a post shared on Wednesday, June 11.
“She’s free, and in His heavenly arms,” she wrote, alongside a series of broken heart emojis and a black and white portrait of Lewis. “Lord, rest her soul 🙏🏽”
Ananda Lewis spent decades in the public eye, carving her place as a respected media personality. Known for her intelligence, charisma, and authenticity, Lewis rose to fame in the late ’90s and early 2000s as a host on BET’s Teen Summit and later as a prominent VJ on MTV, hosting Total Request Live and Hot Zone.
Her work resonated particularly with young audiences, as she tackled social issues, music, and culture with depth and relatability. Lewis eventually hosted her own nationally syndicated talk show, The Ananda Lewis Show, solidifying her reputation as a skilled interviewer and advocate for meaningful dialogue.
Though her career in media flourished, Lewis stepped back from the spotlight to focus on personal interests, including carpentry and parenting. However, her most impactful role may have come in recent years as she opened up about her battle with breast cancer, a fight she revealed publicly in 2020.
Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, Lewis shared that she had delayed regular mammograms, a decision she now warns against. Initially diagnosed in 2019, Lewis was advised to get a double mastectomy. She chose not to undergo the surgery, opting to take a more holistic approach.
Her candor about her diagnosis and treatment aimed to inspire others, particularly women of color, to take proactive steps for their health. “If I can help one woman avoid what I’m going through, it’ll be worth it,” she said in a heartfelt video posted on social media.
Unfortunately, in 2024, Lewis revealed in a CNN roundtable discussion that the cancer progressed to Stage 4.
“That scan showed that I had this kind of up my spine, through my hip, almost everywhere but my brain,” Lewis said during the roundtable discussion. “I’ve never been in pain like that in my life.”
“I don’t get afraid of things,” Lewis continued. “I was just like, ‘Fudge, man, I really thought I had this.’ I was frustrated. I was a little angry at myself.”
Ananda Lewis’ legacy extends far beyond her television career. Her openness about her health struggles and her unwavering commitment to educating others have made her a powerful voice in the fight against breast cancer. Through her honesty and resilience, Lewis inspired and empowered countless individuals, proving that her influence is as impactful as it is enduring.
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Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Passes Away At 52
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2024 will be remembered as the year of the diss track. In addition to Kendrick and Drake going back and forth, we saw battles between Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion, Ice Spice & Latto, Quavo & Chris Brown. Even Marlon Wayans wrote a country diss track against Soulja Boy. As we celebrate Black Music Month, it’s only right that we credit the first diss track to become a viral sensation.
At just 10, Roxanne Shanté was making noise in the underground rap scene. By 14, she was an undefeated battle rapper and a member of the Juice Crew. That opportunity came when she ran into neighbors Marley Marl, Mr. Magic, and Tyrone Williams, who were frustrated after U.T.F.O. backed out of a show. Though hesitant at first, Shanté was convinced to record a freestyle that became a seven-minute track disrupting U.T.F.O’s plans. The diss track played on U.T.F.O’s unreleased song “Roxanne Roxanne”, Which Shanté used as fuel freestyled from the woman in the song’s perspective, to mock the group’s manhood. “Roxanne’s Revenge” was released in 1984, reached #22 on Billboard, sold over 250,000 copies in New York, and sparked what’s known as the “Roxanne Wars”, a battle resulting in over 30 response tracks.
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Laying The Foundation
This catapulted Shanté from local battle rapper to Juice Crew member, earning her recognition as one of hip-hop’s best battle rappers. Roxanne was a rising star credited by Nas as an inspiration. But with fame came challenges, especially for a dark-skinned girl under 18. Beyond battling rappers, she faced physical and sexual abuse, foster care, colorism, and sexism. Decades later, women like Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, and GloRilla face similar backlash. Yet, like Shanté, they respond with bars that prove they can outrap men in the genre while facing systemic challenges.
Source: Al Pereira / Getty
READ: GloRilla Sheds Light On The Challenges Black Women Face In The Music Industry
Today, Roxanne Shanté’s legacy lives on as a blueprint for authenticity in hip-hop. From lighting the Empire State Building during hip-hop’s 50th anniversary to hosting on LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells Radio, and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Grammy Ceremony, Shanté continues to champion the culture she helped define. Her journey from teenage battle rapper to respected pioneer has inspired generations of female MCs to speak their truth without apology.
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Roxannes Revenge – How A Teenage Battle Rapper Changed Hip-Hop Forever
was originally published on
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In its early stages Rap was largely populated by African-Americans. Over the years the game has seen many biracial rappers, all shades of races share the spotlight in Hip Hop. Some of our favorite MC’s have been the product of parents of differing races.
Source: Ernesto Ruscio / Getty / Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington had to let one Cannes Film Festival photographer know he’s not the one or two.
A video of Denzel Washington checking a photographer during the world premiere of Spike Lee’s newest film, Highest 2 Lowest, which stars Washington, along with Jeffrey Wright, A$AP Rocky, Wendell Pierce, and more, went viral on social media.
The incident occurred on the red carpet when a photographer grabbed Washington’s arm, trying to get his attention, while the 70-year-old actor was breaking bread with Lee.
Washington, who is known to press people when he feels his space is being violated, turned to the photographer, telling him to stop. The photographer smiled and nodded in agreement, only to grab Washington again, leading to the actor warning him again to “stop.”
According to People, an insider revealed that despite the tense moment on the red carpet, Washington didn’t let it ruin the moment and had. a “great evening.”
Social Media Got Denzel Washington’s Back
But that didn’t stop fans from chiming in and standing up for Uncle Denzel who channel his inner Alonzo Harris for hot minute to let that photographer know that he crossed the line.
“See now if he had slapped him, the focus would be on him slapping him instead of the fact that the weirdo was antagonising him,” one user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote.
Another user on X wrote, “They instigate, provoke us into acting out of character, then smile in our faces immediately after. But if Denzel justifiably slapped the dogshit outta dude for deliberately provoking him, the media would be quick to call him all types of slick ass slurs and try to end his career.”
Where’s the lie?
We’re just glad that that overzealous photog didn’t ruin Denzel’s moment.
You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Lyrical powerhouse Wale sat down for an in-depth conversation with MiAsia Symone, offering fans a rare glimpse into his life beyond the music. Known for his introspective style, the artist didn’t hold back about his personal growth, challenges, and optimism for the future.
Touching on mental health, Wale shared his current mindset, explaining, “I’m mentally aware. It’s more about empathy than anything.” Mental health has been a recurring theme in his work, and his empathy continues to fuel his creativity and personal connections.
Fatherhood has also played a pivotal role in shaping the rapper’s perspective. Speaking about parenting his 8-year-old daughter, Wale admitted, “It’s an emotional ride, for better or worse.” His love and respect for her individuality were evident as he added, “She’s so aware and smart. She’s learned how to talk her way through things without really lying. She gives me a run for my money.” Despite the challenges, he affirmed his co-parenting partnership, saying, “Her mom is a great mother, and they’re besties.”
With a new album on the horizon and his latest single, “Blanco,” hitting the airwaves, Wale reflected on his career highlights and struggles. Songs like “Lotus Flower Bomb” and mainstream hits like “No Hands” transformed his trajectory. “I don’t think a lot of people knew I could make records like that,” he noted, describing how “No Hands” became a pivotal moment for his career. Yet, he acknowledged the difficulties of navigating industry politics and recognition. “I’ve had so much success, but only one Grammy nomination. Something doesn’t add up,” he stated candidly.
Looking forward, his upcoming album promises depth and raw emotion. Wale revealed it explores themes like love, paranoia, and legacy. “I’ve put a lot of my heart into this, all the weight that’s been on me,” he said. Despite stepping away from trends, his fans remain his compass, trusting his authenticity and unique voice.
When asked about his ultimate goal, Wale kept it simple yet profound. “When it’s all said and done, I just want to be known for making great music.” That’s a legacy his loyal audience can stand behind.
Wale On Music Industry Challenges, Fatherhood, Upcoming Album and More
was originally published on
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Source: Michael Buckner / Getty / Halle Berry / Van Hunt
Halle Berry had herself a wonderful Mother’s Day, and she wanted the entire world to know, in a clever way, to plug her intimacy gel.
In a clip shared on her Instagram account, Berry shared a video featuring herself and her boo, singer Van Hunt, snuggled up together in bed very much letting us know that her Mother’s Day will end with some bedroom gymnastics.
The X-Men star is very giddy in bed as she talks about her upcoming pound session, while Hunt is very eager to get to smashing. Who can blame him? It’s Halle Berry, and we are talking about it here.
The social media-savvy actress’s impromptu video was also a clever way to promote her intimacy gel, Let’s Spin. Now available in a convenient travel size, she brought it with her on her trip to Cannes, France.
Berry reveals they are about to use the product, and Hunt, understandably, is very excited. The clip ends with Berry wishing everyone a happy Mother’s Day while “spinning.”
The actress has been the talk of social media thanks to her very revealing custom LaQuan Smith dress, which she wore to the Met Gala and left little to the imagination, especially in the lower region.
Social Media Hilariously Reacts To Halle Berry’s Video
As expected, social media had plenty to say about Berry’s video, all hilarious takes.
“oh look at me I’m van hunt. I made the classic song “down here in hell with you”. I got a great grey beard. I’m about to rock jordan the call center operator’s wig off. fuck you,” Desus, formerly of the comedic duo Desus & Mero wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
Another post on X read, “Did not expect to end my day with Halle Berry telling the world she’s gonna get put through the mattress on this app.”
How can you not love Halle Berry?
You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Getty Images /Charlamagne Tha God / Jonathan Majors
Charlamagne Tha God continues to make significant moves outside of radio. The Breakfast Club host is teaming up with John Wick producer Basil Iwanyk to launch a new production company.
Variety exclusively reports that Charlamagne Tha God and Iwanyk are teaming up to launch Southland Stories, a production company that amplifies southern voices.
The first project on Southland Stories‘ slate is a revenge thriller called True Threat starring Jonathan Majors. It is the actor’s first role since his 2023 conviction.
Per Variety:
“True Threat” is scheduled to begin production this summer. It’s one of several films in the pipeline as Southland Stories starts to ramp up its output. Directed and written by Gerard McMurray and produced by Alexis Garcia of Cat5, “True Threat” follows a special forces operative out for vengeance after his teenage son is killed by gang members. The movie is among Majors’ first roles since he was convicted in 2023 of third degree assault and harassment.
The radio host also spoke about the film, adding, “Films like ‘True Threat’ are exactly why we created Southland Stories. It’s vital to show that Black creatives can thrive across all genres. Gerard McMurray and Jonathan Majors are extremely talented individuals.”
Southland Stories will deliver films that focus on “real-life tales” and scripted narratives like True Threat. In a press release, Charlamagne, Iwanyk, and producer Karen Kinney said the production company was founded to “spotlight bold, authentic stories often overlooked in mainstream cinema.”
We shall see if picking a Jonathan Majors film to kick things off with will work out for Southland Stories.
Paras Griffin
A lot can happen in a life that spans over seven decades, so it would only make sense to put forth every effort that assures each and every one of those days will matter for something. For Cathy Hughes, the consummate chairwoman here at Radio One and Urban One, it’s been her only way of living for the better part of 77 years.
On her milestone birthday today (April 22), we give a huge salute to our founder for being an exemplary model of what it means to be an influential Black businesswoman, supportive mother, pretty stylish septuagenarian and overall visionary leader.
RELATED: A Timeline Of How Cathy Hughes Built A Black Empire
With no signs of slowing down anytime soon — she’s already looking into the online gaming industry! — Hughes is showing the world that no creed, color, race, gender or financial barrier will ever slow her down in pursuit of achieving everything possible for the UONE family. Her work has influenced even the highest of academia, with Howard University renaming its four-department communications program as the Cathy Hughes School of Communications back in 2016. As the HBCU put it on their website, “The mission of the Cathy Hughes School of Communications is to prepare graduates to exercise global leadership within and across diverse communities, locally, nationally and globally through communication research, professional practice, innovation, job creation, social justice and service via cutting-edge knowledge, skills and technology.” Cathy’s overall mission for media is carried on especially by the school’s professors, who are all described as “Pulitzer Prize winners, Emmy winners, Fulbright recipients, ASHA Fellows, prominent researchers, renowned authors, award-winning journalists and other media and communications professionals.”
To learn more about the birthday girl and get a better idea of some accomplishments that led to her success, we put together a few facts that give just a surface level telling of the greatness that is Cathy Hughes. Whether it’s being the first, or just the most determined to win, our boss lady definitely knows a thing or two about making an impact on the culture.
Keep scrolling to check out a special birthday shoutout to the incomparable Cathy Hughes featuring a handful of facts that tell more about our head honcho:
She’s One Of The Richest Black Woman In America — At One Point Only Second To Oprah!
Let’s just say a net worth estimated between $450 million and $500 million is nothing to sneeze at, especially for a Black woman.
She’s The First African-American Woman To Head A Publicly Traded Corporation
Since going public in 1999, Radio One has consistently maintained its status as the largest African-American-owned broadcasting company in the United States.
She Helped Create The R&B Subgenre “Quiet Storm”
You heard it right! Back in 1976 when she was the station manager for WHUR, Hughes helped then-Howard University students Melvin Lindsey and Jack Shuler launch the late-night music programming format, The Quiet Storm, after a successful soft launch. The rest is history.
Her Mom Was An Iconic Jazz Player
In her prime, the late Helen Jones Woods played trombone in one of America’s top female jazz bands during the 1940s.
Her Dad Was The First African-American To Earn An Accounting Degree From Creighton University
The historic accounting degree earned by William Alfred Woods influenced his daughter Cathy to enroll in Business Administration classes when she came of age. While she didn’t graduate, it led her to a sales manager position at WHUR where her broadcast story officially began.
She’s The First Woman To Serve As Vice President And General Manager Of A Radio Station In Washington, D.C.
…and it’s been growing ever since!
She Purchased Radio One After Being Denied For A Bank Loan 32 Times
What was it again that Aaliyah said in her 2000 no.1 smash hit, “Try Again”? Oh yeah, dust yourself off!
She’s A Member Of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Stepping with the baddest!
She’s Inducted In The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame
Can you blame them? Creating Quiet Storm is no light matter!
She Has A Street Named After Her In Washington, D.C.
The next time you’re on the corner of 4th Street and H Street NE in Washington, D.C., look up at the street sign for a pleasant surprise.
Happy B’Day Cathy Hughes! 10 Fun Facts About Our Boss Lady
was originally published on
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