We Speak Entertainment
[VIDEO] Soul Train Awards: Why I Wasn’t Feeling The Toni Braxton Tribute
Listen, I think Ro James, Jessie J, and Luke James are great entertainers within their own right. But, they shouldn’t have paid auntie Toni Braxton homage, because, ummmm, they just didn’t have that ‘extra’ needed for a Toni Braxton song.
First of all, I’m OK with giving Toni the Legend Award, but if we’re going to give her that we need to make sure that those who give her a tribute are qualified.
I can see Ro James paying tribute to Rick James or the Gap Band. Luke James can kill a Luther Vandross tune or New Edition, of course. Jessie J, I am not quite sure…I’m sure she can pay tribute to someone-not Toni though.
Was Jennifer Hudson, Deborah Cox, Melanie Fiona, Jordin Sparks, Kelly Rowland, Amber Riley, or Bridget Kelly not avaialable to perfrom for the tribute?
Lalah Hathaway, Ledisi, and Demetria McKinley were in the audience with me. Hell, I know they could’ve paid tribute.
All I’m saying is that we needed more for her tribute and most of us were not feeling it. I mean, it fell flat-real flat.
I’m glad Toni Braxton gave us a good ol’ slay, baby! I really enjoyed Tamar jumping on the mic also. That was such a sweet sister moment.
We Speak Podcast
Music Therapy & Motivation Season 2, Episode 6 – “The Resurgence of RIMIDI: Soul, Self & Service”


If you’re drawn to deeply soulful voices and stories of artistic rebirth, don’t miss this episode. Gino Black sits down with RIMIDI, a rising indie-soul vocalist whose latest work channels vulnerability and empowerment.
What You’ll Learn:
- Rediscovering Purpose: RIMIDI walks through her comeback story—how she reclaimed her artistry after stepping back, and the creative clarity that followed.
- Lyrics as Healing: Discover how she uses songwriting as a therapeutic medium, tackling identity, mental health, and community through music.
- Empowerment Through Action: From launching GEMCulture.org to uplifting others via Fund‑a‑GEM, RIMIDI merges creative expression with communal support.
- Practical Wisdom: Ideal for independent artists—RIMIDI shares how she navigates self-promotion, audience engagement, and maintaining authenticity throughout the process.
The Takeaway:
This episode transcends the norm—it’s not just motivation, it’s a movement. RIMIDI’s journey is a blueprint for anyone reclaiming their voice, creative drive, or purpose. Her blend of soulful artistry and grassroots community work reminds us that music can heal both artist and audience.
Final Word:
RIMIDI’s episode is a stirring testament to resilience, artistry, and empowerment. Gino Black masterfully guides the conversation from personal growth to community building. Listeners—whether creatives, dreamers, or supporters—will walk away fueled by hope and inspiration.
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