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2017 ‘Black Girls Rock’ honorees celebrate empowerment

Published

8 years ago

August 24, 2017

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"Black women make me feel invincible." -@saintrecords #BlackGirlsRock

A post shared by AAMBC Journal (@aambcjournal) on Aug 23, 2017 at 7:42am PDT

‘Black Girls Rock’ hits BET airwaves on Tuesday

Golden Globe-winning actress Taraji P. Henson will host “Black Girls Rock! 2017, airing at 8 p.m. Tuesday on BET.

Recorded on Aug. 5 before a live audience at the Performing Arts Center in Newark, N.J., the awards program is now in its ninth year. It was created by philanthropist Beverly Bond and celebrating the contributions of Black women in the fields of music, entertainment, medicine, entrepreneurship and visionary aspects.

“Celebrants” for 2017 honors include Congresswoman Maxine Waters (Social Humanitarian), actress Issa Rae (Star Power), Black and Missing Foundation Inc. founders Natalie Wilson and Derrica Wilson (Community Change Agent), Grammy Award-winning songstress Roberta Flack (Living Legend), businesswoman Suzanne Shank (Shot Caller) and “Black-ish” star Yara Shahidi (Young, Gifted and Black).

While accepting her award earlier this month, Rae, best known for her web series “Awkward Black Girl,” said, “Once I learned to like me more than others did, I didn’t have to worry about being the funniest or the most popular or the prettiest.

“I was the best me, and I’ve only ever tried to be that,” she said. “So I want to thank the Black Girls Rock for honoring the version of me that I hope will only improve, and I’m a Black girl who rocks, baby!”

In her powerful acceptance speech, Waters, a Democrat in California, said, “I am you, and you are me. We have power, we have endurance. We can do things that others have told us we can’t do. I don’t care how big you are, I don’t [care] how high you think you are, if you come for me, I’m coming for you.”

Performers at the evening of empowerment include Anthony Hamilton, India Arie, Ledisi, Sza, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Tyrese. The star-studded roster of presenters includes Maxwell, Wood Harris, Tiffany Haddish, Robin Thede, Anthony Anderson, Jay Ellis, Anika Noni Rose, Jussie Smollett, Ne-Yo, Laz Alonso and Rutina Wesley.

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The Unconventional Path of a Musician Without Boundaries

Published

2 days ago

May 7, 2025

Public Relations Agency LLC

A Humble Beginning

Born in 1964 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Brian Carson grew up in a world shaped by humble beginnings. Raised by a single mother in a low-income trailer park, his early life was marked by constant moving and making new friends. Despite the challenges, he found joy in music, which would eventually become the defining passion of his life.

The Guitar That Sparked a Journey

It was in 7th grade that Brian’s life took a pivotal turn. A classmate introduced him to the world of guitar, sparking an obsession that would shape his path forever. With a borrowed acoustic guitar, he and his friend formed their first band, and the raw passion for creating music was ignited.

A Musician Without Boundaries

Over the years, Brian has defied conventional norms, focusing not on fame or money but on the love of music itself. He’s recorded over 100 songs and toured nationally, but it’s not just about the numbers – it’s about the joy and friendships he’s made along the way. His focus on making music without pressure has allowed him to explore a wide variety of genres.

Staying True to His Passion

Despite a self-deprecating sense of humor, Brian knows what drives him. “I’m not claiming to have any kind of talent in any musical direction, but I do possess the ability to not give a shit,” he says with a grin. This attitude has allowed him to continue pursuing his passion for music, recording and performing without compromise.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

Brian’s journey is a testament to the joy that music can bring when pursued with passion, curiosity, and a genuine love for the craft. As long as he feels a pure desire to create music, he’ll continue to do so. When it ceases to be fun, he’ll be done. His story proves that it’s not about the destination – it’s about enjoying the ride.

Final Thoughts

With a career spanning decades and an attitude that embraces music for music’s sake, Brian Carson’s story is an inspiration to those who believe in the power of doing what you love without compromise. Be sure to check out his music, as this true artist’s journey is far from over.