For the Culture...
If it's For the Culture... it's for Us!! We don't Define Culture by Geography or Color... or by Language or Area Codes - we Define Our Culture EVERYDay when We quote Lyrics from Our Favorite Artist... in the Intellect of a spontaneous conversation with a Friend about the current Economy.... in the Passion of a Friendly argument about Who's the Best Player in the League or Who's the Best Rapper in the Game at the moment. Our Culture is defined Each Time We put together a Fly Outfit comprised of Apparel You may have Picked based on Trend, or Budget, or Your Mood at the Moment .... Each Time we Incorporate a little Piece of All of the Things that make Us - Who We Are. in our day-to-day Routine
If you like to Keep your Ear to what's Going On....Here is Where You can Keep Up.... Everything We talk about Here is.... For the Culture!!
Toast to
Mr. Tyler Perry
One of the things that has always been the hardest to obtain but of the highest level of respect when able to achieve it - is Ownership as a black man or woman in America. Defying all odds and showing all of us what dreams, drive and determination can do - is exactly what Tyler Perry has done.
His story has been chronologically played out in front of our very eyes. His brand grew from one screen play to a script for movie and television shows... to the largest production set in the country. This Summer Tyler Perry became the owner of two major television networks..... Black Entertainment Television (BET) and VH1. With so many accolades already under his belt - we are never surprised at the new heights that this man climbs - all because he is never afraid to Reach!!
Tyler Perry has really created a lane for himself.... make that - a Highway!! He has allowed so many others to transform their lives from his very genius; in the form of writing, directing, and shining light on others gifts. With a plethora of television shows already in syndication, an arsenal of movies and more work on popular apps like Netflix - there is no sign of his slowing down anytime soon.
Tyler Perry - B.G.L.U. is so Proud of You! Thank You for being an example for All of Us.... we wish you continued Blessings and Success.
Keepin it Light... & Always Keeping it Cute
This Summer... we don't have to do to much.... we just want to keep it cute, keep it light, and have some fun!! The hottest fashionistas are all wearing comfy but cute looks... like denim, distressed shorts with cute crop tops like Latto. You know sexy and simple is always in style like a maxi dress to catch those curves like Jayda Cheaves. Of course simply laid baby hairs with easy braidsd or slick natural/wavy looks is a summer staple. There is always the possibility of taking a dip... so lashes are optional and make up is not often necessary - leaving the girls to focus on light skin care and heavy hydration. The goal is to glow like Lori!
To all the brilliant beauties... Enjoy yourself this season... Drink Water... Eat Fruit... and make sure you find Yourself with People in places where you Smile and Laugh the most
Loius Vuitton x Pharell
One of the hottest Fashion collections revealed this Summer - was a combination of a classic American Designer and the new age, fashion wave of the culture curated by music Legend, Pharrell Williams. The collection designed in conjunction with the iconic fashion house of Louis Vuitton; was unveiled during Men's Fashion Week in Paris in June. The show was set on the famous Pont Neuf bridge... with a crowd of everyone at the top of the popularity charts in fashion, music, sports, and entertainment.
The collection was so innovative - displaying a classic, checkered Louis look - while introducing it in a new format. Pharrell's digital camoflauge that gave the classic print a fresh and futuristic look.. was donned on many pieces - while the collection also premiered fresh denim patterns, tailored pants and jackets and floor length coats covered in LV's. The models took the long stroll across the bridge... with a confidence that was perpetuated by the energy of the Voices of Fire choir and the bass of the song "Joy" of which they collaborated with the musical genius and designer.
There was something about the show and the soulful sound coming from the choir, mixed with the visual aesthetic of the runway and clothes that made even distant spectators... feel as if they were witnessing something game changing.
We can only imagine that Virgil's inspiration and spirit was felt.... B.G.L.U. is here for the fashion and the inspiration.
Hip Hop Spotlight
Forever a Star -
Tupac Shakur
We could not shine Light on all the happenings this Summer without shining it on one of the Greatest Artists of our time - Tupac Shakur. His Hollywood star was unveiled - and his sister was there to accept the honor. Despite the short amount of time he spent on this Earth.... his Impact has been felt by generations - and will continue to be.
This is a testament to the fact that the more you Walk in your Purpose... the heavier the imprint you leave.
NBA Draft
The NBA Draft was something that many had been waiting on.... with talented stars on the rise and B.G.L.U.'s home team up for the second draft pick - we were Ready!!
Everyone was excited to see the 1st pick star from France - Victor Wembanyama... being signed to the San Antonio Spurs. His 4-year contract was a nice amount... not to mention all of the endorsements that he is already raking in. The Charlotte Hornets chose the Tennessee native Brandon Miller.... along with three additional draft picks - and the city is already buzzing.
There were also a few surprises... like Marcus Smart being traded by the Boston Celtics to the Memphis Grizzlies.
No matter how things played out in the 2023 Draft... we are still looking forward to seeing how well all of the new and established - play it out on the court!!
King James
Although debates about "The Greats" are inevitable..... there are some moments in time in which Greatness can be witnessed and there is no need for debate.
It is not a question of whether or not his name with be on the list of those in sports that can be considered "Great" - King James will be at the forefront.
Some of the things that he is considered a great athlete for... having nothing to do with his talent on the court.
The 2023 Espy Award recipient for "Record-Breaking Performance. He was welcomed to the stage by his Wife and Kids - all beaming with pride. His love for family and standing up for what he believes - makes him a champion without any awards needed! Salute to King Lebron James on his honor.
People's Champ : Issa Rae
There has been a long fight for representation when it comes to main stream marketing and sales..... particularly for minority children in the 80's and 90's. There was a plethora of baby dolls to chose from on the shelf, but it was not often that young girls of black or hispanic descent found a doll that looked like them. This Summer, Barbie's World... has been brought to life on the big screen. The thing that is most exciting is that they have decided to not only show representation of all races... but also to break the high heels and short skirt Barbie stereotype.
This issue of Brilliant Girls Link Up is giving Issa Rae the "People's Champ" Award... because the talented actress is not only in the movie - but is the Barbie World President. It is nice to not only see a brown girl in the movie... but even better that she does not play a small part. It also has to be mentioned that the production team tapped into the culture a little more... with Nicki Minaj featuring Ice Spice blessing the project with the Barbie World theme song. This movie has all the girls getting all pretty in pink all Summer.
HU$TLERS & HEROES
HOV
Hip Hop has rappers..... and it has royalty; when speaking of Shawn Carter aka HOV... bka Jay-Z - clearly we are talking about Hip Hop Royalty!! In this issue of B.G.L.U., we are giving the "Hu$tler and Hero Award" to HOV. He has established himself as a living legend for the strategic and savvy way that he has maneuvered through the music industry and now through multiple industries as an entrepreneur.
As if he has not already proven to be a great inspiration with a lasting impact on the culture, in July the Roc Nation team put together an exhibit at the Brooklyn Library. The exhibit deemed "The Book of HOV" displayed all things Jay-Z from album and magazine covers, to Roc-a-Wear apparel and Roc chains, even allowing guests to listen to music from the Rap veteran. He was accompanied by his friends and team..... and of course his beautiful wife Beyonce and their doting oldest daughter Blue. HOV even took a moment to reflect on his own body of work..... we can only imagine that he must feel an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment.
Brilliant Girls Link Up is giving a salute to the mogul and cultural Icon - HOV for this honor and continuing to raise the bar.
