Prime Video brought out a strong crowd Monday night to The Culver Theater for the world premiere of Jerry West: The Logo, drawing a mix of NBA legends, filmmakers, and longtime figures connected to West’s legacy.
Crown Royal Marquis and Soulection brought their “Marquis Moments with Soulection” tour to Los Angeles on April 8, delivering an intimate night centered on music, culture and community. The event took place at Detour, where a packed room of fans, creatives and industry tastemakers gathered for a live experience rooted in Soulection’s signature genre-blending sound.
Arin Ray pulled up to Los Angeles and delivered exactly the kind of night you hoped for if you’re tapped into real R&B. Smooth, intentional, and personal from start to finish. Set inside Blue Note Los Angeles, the night carried a little extra weight. The venue has quickly carved out a reputation as one of the city’s premier intimate stages, blending jazz roots with a forward-thinking mix of R&B, soul, hip-hop, and live instrumentation. It’s the type of room where artists don’t just perform, they connect.
There’s something different about a Dave show when it hits Los Angeles. Maybe it’s the distance from Brixton, maybe it’s the global reach of the sound, or maybe it’s the realization that UK rap is no longer regional, it’s fully embedded in the culture. Whatever it is, last Friday at the Hollywood Palladium, Dave made it clear that his voice travels just fine.
Following one of the biggest nights in music, Affinity Nightlife brought the energy straight to Hollywood with the official iHeartRadio Music Awards After Party at Warwick. The venue quickly turned into a who’s who of rising talent, reality TV favorites, and industry insiders looking to keep the night going.
Los Angeles, CA – Artists, activists, and cultural leaders gathered Sunday, March 1 at the historic Chaplin Studios in Hollywood for the inaugural Sankofa.org Social Justice Awards, an evening celebrating art, activism, and the enduring legacy of legendary singer, actor, and activist Harry Belafonte.
Held on what would have been Belafonte’s 99th birthday, the fundraiser honored contemporary leaders whose work continues to challenge injustice and inspire change. The evening recognized civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, renowned visual artist Shepard Fairey, hip hop pioneer Chuck D, and actor and activist Danny Glover for their cultural and social impact. Guests experienced a uniquely immersive program guided through wireless headphones, with music curated by Ali Shaheed Muhammad of A Tribe Called Quest and conversations hosted alongside journalist and radio personality Dominique DiPrima. The intimate format blended music, storytelling, and dialogue throughout the evening.
The program opened with a Sankofa.org film presentation and a stirring choral performance from the Fernando Pullum Choir, setting a powerful tone for the night. Gina Belafonte, co founder and president of Sankofa.org, delivered remarks highlighting her father’s belief that artists play a critical role in advancing truth and justice. Throughout the evening, honorees were recognized for their contributions to art and activism. Shepard Fairey was celebrated for using visual art as a platform for political expression, while Dolores Huerta received a moving tribute honoring her decades of leadership in labor rights and social justice movements. Chuck D reflected on the role of hip hop as a voice for truth and transformation before accepting his award.
The night also featured performances and spoken word moments from Aloe Blacc, poet Monique Mitchell, and Iman Jordan, recipient of the Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Grammy. Blacc delivered one of the evening’s most memorable moments, closing the program with a powerful rendition of “Not on My Watch” alongside Gina Belafonte and the Fernando Pullum Children’s Choir before returning for an encore performance of his global hit “Wake Me Up.”
Founded in 2013 by Harry Belafonte, Gina Belafonte, and Raoul Roach, Sankofa.org continues to mobilize artists and activists in support of grassroots movements and social justice initiatives. As the evening concluded inside Chaplin Studios, a venue deeply connected to Belafonte’s legacy, the message of the night was clear: the intersection of art and activism remains a powerful force for change.
Major League Soccer’s new primetime showcase made its Los Angeles debut as Sunday Night Soccer presented by Continental Tire transformed Dignity Health Sports Park into a destination event for fans and media alike. Designed as a weekly ritual under MLS’s “Sundays Are Made for This” campaign, the February 22 matchup between the LA Galaxy and New York City FC delivered a nationally broadcast spectacle on Apple TV, pairing high-stakes soccer with immersive fan experiences that extended beyond the pitch.
Photo by Tommie Battle / NYCFC
Photo courtesy of MLS
The match opened at a blistering pace when João Klauss struck in the opening two minutes, stunning the home crowd and setting the tone for a physical, high-pressure contest. Momentum shifted late when LA Galaxy defender Carlos Garcés received a red card in the 64th minute, forcing the Galaxy to close the match short-handed. New York found its equalizer just two minutes later as Nicolas Fernández converted from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. Despite late pushes and a charged stadium atmosphere, the match concluded in a 1–1 draw, a gritty result that underscored the intensity of the season opener.
It was an amazing 75 degree day at Dignity Health Sports Park Sunday, drawing supporters in with photo opportunities, merchandise giveaways, and a curated interactive set that mirrored a stylish soccer watch party. Headlining the weekends’ activations was Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup champion Sydney Leroux, who participated in media interviews and captured original content onsite. Leroux’s presence energized fans and reinforced MLS’s commitment to growing the game’s visibility across both men’s and women’s soccer communities. Her appearance bridged sport and storytelling, extending the reach of Sunday Night Soccer beyond the stadium through digital and broadcast channels.
Photo courtesy of MLS
Photo courtesy of MLS
With a dramatic draw on the field and fan-friendly activations outside the gates, Sunday Night Soccer’s Los Angeles launch delivered on its promise: transforming Sunday evening into a communal soccer experience and setting the tone for a season built around connection, spectacle, and the global reach of the beautiful game.
Photo by Tommie Battle / NYCFC
The sold out night at the Hollywood Palladium felt rooted in both legacy and momentum. Co-headlined by BigXthaPlug and Clipse, the show brought multiple generations of hip hop together in one room, with Armanii setting the tone as the opener.
The Room 112 Tour stop at YouTube Theater on January 23 felt like a reunion rooted in nostalgia, legacy, and connection. R&B staples 112 were joined by special guests Total and Case for a night that celebrated timeless records while honoring the artists and eras that shaped the culture.
From the moment doors opened, the crowd felt intentional. Fans arrived ready to sing, reminisce, and relive memories tied to songs that have lived in playlists for decades. Case warmed up the room with smooth vocals and an intimate stage presence that immediately set the tone. His set included standout performances of “Touch Me, Tease Me,” “Missing You,” and “Happily Ever After,” each met with loud singalongs from the crowd. “Touch Me, Tease Me” brought out the flirtier side of the audience, while “Missing You” created one of the night’s more emotional moments, with phones raised and voices filling the theater. He closed strong with “Happily Ever After,” reminding everyone why his ballads still resonate years later.
Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater
Total followed, bringing high energy despite performing without Pamela Long. Even with one member absent, the group delivered with confidence and cohesion. They performed fan favorites including “Kissing You,” “What About Us,” and “Can’t You See,” with each song receiving its own wave of nostalgia from the crowd. “Kissing You” felt especially powerful live, with layered harmonies echoing through the venue, while “What About Us” had fans dancing in their seats. One of the most meaningful moments of their set came during “Can’t You See,” when visuals of The Notorious B.I.G appeared on screen rapping his verse, allowing his presence to live on while the audience sang every word.
Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater
112 took the stage next, performing as a duo with Slim and Mike holding it down for the group. They opened their set with “It’s Over Now,” setting an emotional tone right from the start. Despite being down two members, Slim and Mike carried the performance with ease, blending polished vocals with genuine engagement that kept the audience locked in throughout.
Their set moved seamlessly between slow jams and crowd favorites, but the emotional high points came during their tributes to hip hop royalty. The group paid homage to both Biggie and Tupac, taking a moment to honor their influence and impact. Biggie appeared on screen once again during their performance of “Only You (Remix),” creating another powerful singalong moment that connected generations in real time. The show closed on a high note with “Peaches & Cream,” sending the crowd home on pure nostalgia and joy. It was the kind of ending that reminded everyone why these records still matter.
From my perspective, the night worked because it balanced reverence for the past with present-day appreciation. Even with altered lineups, both Total and 112 delivered performances rooted in authenticity and love for the music. Seeing Slim and Mike lead 112 with confidence, and watching Total command the stage without Pam, spoke to the longevity and resilience of artists who continue to show up for their fans.
Ultimately, the Room 112 Tour stop in Los Angeles felt less like a concert and more like a shared experience. It was a reminder that R&B lives in memory, emotion, and community. These songs are woven into people’s stories, and on this night, YouTube Theater became a space where generations came together to celebrate that legacy.
Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater
Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater
The black carpet premiere of Moses the Black took place Tuesday, January 20 at the Pacific Design Center, bringing together film, faith, and culture for a powerful night centered on redemption and transformation. Industry guests, cast, creatives, and supporters gathered to celebrate the upcoming release ahead of its nationwide theatrical debut on January 30.
Photo credit: @jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with signature complimentary cocktails inspired by the film’s themes. A tequila-based cocktail titled The Light set the tone for the evening, alongside a vodka cocktail called The Sword and a mezcal cocktail named Saving Grace. Complimentary bites and cocktails were available throughout the premiere, creating an elevated yet intimate atmosphere that matched the film’s emotional weight. Following the screening, the celebration continued at the official after party at Rokusho LA, where guests enjoyed additional complimentary cocktails and a hand roll bar. The after party offered a relaxed setting for conversation, reflection, and celebration of the film’s message and creative achievement.
Moses the Black is written and directed by Yelena Popovic, who also serves as a producer on the film. The crime drama reimagines the story of the 4th-century saint St. Moses the Black within modern-day Chicago. The film follows Malik, played by Omar Epps, a former gang leader recently released from prison who finds himself torn between vengeance and spiritual awakening.
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
The cast includes Omar Epps, Wiz Khalifa, Quavo, Chukwudi Iwuji, Skilla Baby, Sambou “Bubba” Camara, and Deontay Wilder. The film is executive produced by Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television. With a soundtrack featuring Wiz Khalifa and Quavo, the film blends contemporary hip hop culture with themes of faith, accountability, and the possibility of change.
The premiere also drew a notable group of guest who came out in support. Attendees included Big Boy, actor Johnell Young, rapper D Smoke, Gianni Paolo, Kris Lofton, former USC Trojans and Pittsburgh Steelers star Troy Polamalu, and Leslie David Baker. Their presence added to the sense of community and cultural crossover that defined the evening.
From a personal standpoint, the film left a strong impression. I genuinely enjoyed the screening and admired the level of nuance throughout the story, particularly how it explored the idea that many people are shaped by their environments. Ultimately, Moses the Black is a film that asks viewers to slow down and sit with complexity. It does not rush its message or offer easy answers, but instead invites empathy by showing how environment, circumstance, and personal history shape the choices people make. The story balances faith and realism in a way that feels intentional, not preachy, and deeply human. It was also refreshing to see artists I have listened to for years, especially Wiz Khalifa and Skilla Baby, step into acting roles. Their performances felt natural, and it would be exciting to see both of them take on more film and television roles moving forward.
The story draws inspiration from the real-life journey of St. Moses the Black, an Ethiopian slave who rose to become a feared bandit leader before ultimately finding redemption. That historical foundation gives the film emotional depth while grounding its modern narrative in a story that continues to resonate today.
As the film heads toward its theatrical release on January 30, Moses the Black stands out as more than a crime drama. It is a meditation on accountability, grace, and the possibility of change, especially for those who come from environments where survival often comes before reflection. The premiere itself reflected that same spirit, bringing together creatives, cultural leaders, and community voices for a night rooted in intention and conversation. This is a film that lingers after the credits roll, encouraging viewers to consider not only who people are, but who they are still becoming.
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
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