Issa Rae of 'Awkward Black Girl' Makes 'Totally Biased' Debut Tonigh

If you're like me and can't get enough of Issa Rae's "The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl," be sure to tune in tonight to catch the web series star/creator on FX's pop culture/media/political talk show, "Totally Biased."

She'll chat with host W. Kamau Bell about her viral hit series and recently teaming up with Pharrell Williams' i am OTHER family.

Issa Rae and cast of "The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl"

Also, with Season 2 already underway, don't miss the premiere of episode 4 tonight!

If you're one of the few who isn't already hip to the series, you need to click here and catch up STAT, you won't be disappointed!

"Totally Biased" with Issa Rae debuts tonight on FX at 11pm EST.

Are you a fan of the "AGB" series?

Must-See: 5 Fab New TV Shows to Watch This Fall

While many of us are gearing up for New York Fashion Week, fellow TV buffs are equally excited that the unofficial start of fall is now in full effect.

This month serves as the kick-off for a variety of brand new network and cable shows of the season. Luckily, for us who love to watch BGs and guys on the small screen, the fall TV lineup looks promising. From reality to talk shows to sitcoms, this season seems to have a bit of something for everyone.

Check out these new fall shows:

Eva Marcille and friends star in the reality show, "Girlfriend Confidential," which premiered yesterday (Sept. 3) on Oxygen. 

"Guys with Kids" starring Anthony Anderson and co-starring Tempestt Bledsoe premieres Sept. 26 on NBC.

"666 Park Avenue" co-starring Vanessa Williams premieres Sept. 30 on ABC.

Steve Harvey's self-titled daytime talk show premieres today (Sept. 4) on NBC networks. 

 Iyanla Vanzant stars in "Iyanla, Fix My Life"premiering Sept. 15 on OWN.

BONUS: Mindy Kaling stars in "The Mindy Project" premiering Sept. 25 on Fox.

Will you be tuning in for any of these shows? If not, what are your fave shows? 

Sneak Peek: Jennifer Hudson to Talk with Oprah

Jennifer Hudson is one busy woman! Between filming guest appearances on NBC's Smash and preparing for her debut clothing line launch, the Oscar winner found the time to sit down with the queen of talk — Oprah. 

On an upcoming episode of Oprah's Next Chapter, she talks about her bourgeoning brand, motherhood, and wedding bells. Also in the interview, she's joined by her sister, Julia, who will for the first time discuss the horrific family murders that claimed the life of her son four years ago.

The interview is scheduled to air Sunday, September 9th 9PM EST.

Check out a sneak peek below:



Will you tune in to see J.Hud chatting with Oprah?

MUSIC: BGG's Top 5 Cover Art Designs

Growing up, I always admired the artwork of album and CD covers. However, thanks to the digital age, I either don't see the cover artwork or simply don't pay attention anymore. That was until last week, when I saw the eye-catching cover design for Kanye West's upcoming release, "Cruel Summer."

In fact, it got me thinking about some of my fave covers from back in the day. From iconic to colorful, there have been many visually captivating covers throughout the years.

Dust off your CD tower and take a walk down memory lane!

 Janet Jackson's "Control," 1986

Kelis' "Kaleidoscope," 1999

Kanye West's "The College Dropout," 2004

Lauryn Hill's "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," 1998

Michael Jackson's "Dangerous," 1991

What are some of your fave cover art designs?

Mariah Carey to Join "American Idol"

Looks like one of my favorite musical artists Mariah Carey, will join America Idol  this fall. The singer, 42, has officially reached a deal with Fox to serve as the show's latest pop diva judge.

On the heels of singer/actress Jennifer Lopez's and rock legend Steven Tyler's split from the show, it is the hope of Fox execs that Carey will keep Idol fans interested.

“It’s the biggest recording artist than any of these [singing competition] shows have ever had,” Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly told the press on Monday. “It’s an artist many of these contestants have tried to emulate. [The deal] only concluded only hours ago. Not being the only game in town we need to keep things fresh.”

In a recent phone call with reporters Carey said, "I am so excited to be joining Idol." 

Even though I haven't faithfully watched the televised singing competition since Simon Cowell's departure, I'll be sure to tune in to catch the queen of 90s R&B/pop share her two cents with the singing hopefuls.

Will you tune in to American Idol now that Mariah Carey will be a judge?

Alicia Keys is Back with a "New Day"

With only a couple days left in June, Black Music Month is going out with a bang.  Singer Alicia Keys treated true R&B/pop music fans to ear candy with the release of her new, slightly anthemic single, "New Day."

Produced by her husband Swizz Beatz, the track has an infectious, celebratory-feel coupled with a strong drumline that will surely get "party people" on the dance-floor. The single reintroduces the new mom, 31, to the masses since her last CD, Element of Freedom in 2009. 

If this single sets the tone for her upcoming album, I'll be anticipating its release.

Listen to the song here. 

What's your favorite Alicia Keys' song? 

MUSIC: Old School vs. New School

After attending the launch party for Angela Simmons' new hair extensions line last week, I realized that my music taste is stuck in the past. During the party, I only heard one song (something by Beyoncé) that I knew and could happily hum along to.

Surely, had I stayed longer, familiar "old school" tracks would've trickled in between the current hits, but for my duration "new school" tunes dominated the DJ's playlist.

It seems like I'm becoming one of those people whom I heard growing up saying, "They don't make good music anymore." Well, I'm not sure if that's completely true, but I do know that I have been left out of the popular music scene ever since I moved to New York nearly a decade ago.

Grammy award-winning artist Nicki Minaj

Maybe it's because I don't drive here to hear what's hot on the radio or perhaps it's due to the fact that I'd much rather listen to more customized music picks from Pandora or Music Choice (Throwback Jamz). Whatever the case, contemporary music has taken a backseat for me.

While my nieces and nephew are fans of Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Big Sean, I'm still "bank-head bouncing" to R&B and pop hits of the 80s, 90s, and aughts (I know, I'm not sure how the 2000s got coined that either)!

Do you listen to the radio on a daily basis? Who are some of your favorite artists past or present?

Arsenio Hall to Return to Late Night TV

If you grew up in the late 80s and early 90s , then you're probably just as excited as I am to learn that our king of late-night, Arsenio Hall, is coming back to TV.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the recently appointed winner of Celebrity Apprentice, 56,  is partnering with CBS to host a new late-night talk show set to air 2013.

After watching him battle it out in Donald Trump's boardroom, I was reminded of just how much I missed seeing him on TV. I stayed up countless nights to catch him "woof" it up with his "dog pound" audience.

At the time, The Arsenio Hall Show was the only television outlet to showcase the majority of our stars and give us a glimpse into their glamorous lives, which would've otherwise gone undocumented in mainstream media.

Trust me, Johnny Carson was not featuring Bell Biv Devoe or Jodeci, but Arsenio always celebrated our musicians, actors, and more.  He's a trailblazer whose shoes haven't been filled since his show ended in 1994.

Arsenio, it's been a long time so let's get busy!

Were you a fan of The Arsenio Hall Show back in the day? Will you watch his new show?

Tune In: Centric's Hip-Hop Takeover Weekend

We're over a week into June, which means Black Music Month is in full swing. To celebrate the historical music month, Centric TV is airing "takeovers" featuring specials each weekend throughout June. Last week they kicked things off by highlighting the career of the legendary group Earth, Wind & Fire.

Starting tomorrow (10PM EST), hip-hop fans will be in for a weekend of high notes. Viewers will get an inside look into the history of hip-hop with various programming including: Being Mary J. Blige, Hip-Hop Odyssey: Know Your History, Heavy D: Be Inpsired, and Public Enemy: Welcome to the Terrordome.

In between those specials, the network will air old school videos from some of the hip-hop greats and trailblazers.

The next couple of weekends will feature specials celebrating Don Cornelius, Teena Marie, R. Kelly, Gladys Knight, and more.

If you could choose, who would you like to see have a music "takeover" on Centric?

**The winners of the L'Oreal Paris True Match makeup are: Zee, Bailey, and Steel Heels! Congrats. Please email me your mailing addresses. 

Listen: Whitney Houston's Last Recorded Work

It's still hard to believe that Whitney Houston aka "The Voice," is no longer with us, but her fans will be comforted today with the release of the late songbird's final recording.

"Celebrate," from the upcoming remake film, Sparkle, in which Houston stars was her last recorded song before her passing in February.

The uptempo single features Jordin Sparks who also co-stars in the movie set for release in August.

Listen below:

Did you watch the Whitney Houston tribute on the Billboard Awards last night?

Fantasia Talks Motherhood & Beauty with BGG

Since becoming the American Idol back in 2004, Fantasia Barrino has experienced many triumphs, as well as her fair share of trials and tribulations.

From a highly publicized suicide attempt to controversy surrounding her alleged affair with a married man, Fantasia has risen above the drama.  The Grammy-nominated singer, 27, chooses to focus on what's the most important aspect of her life -- being a mother.

Mom to infant son, Dallas Xavier, and daughter, Zion, 11, Fantasia will celebrate this Mother's Day, Sunday May 13th,  here in New York City where she'll be performing in concert with Charlie Wilson at The Paradise Theater in the Bronx.

I caught up with the busy mom to talk motherhood, beauty, and if she still watches the show that made her a household name.

Check out the Q&A:

I know that your son is only a few months old, but so far, how has motherhood been different this time around since having your daughter, Zion?
"Motherhood is amazing! I love it! Being a mother you learn something new about yourself everyday. Having an older daughter, I have gotten comfortable in the way I was raising my child. But having a new addition, it's the start of new ideas. I’m nurturing both of them and in return they are helping me continue to define who Fantasia is. I love my babies!"

Can you describe your ideal Mother's Day? 
I feel like my ideal Mother’s Day is everyday. Zion and Dallas both make me smile everyday without there being any special occasion. They are both still very young so there isn’t much they can give but their love and the special card’s Zion makes at school, which always warms my spirit.

Being a mom myself, I know that it's the hardest, yet most rewarding job in the world. What would you say has been the most challenging aspect of motherhood being an entertainer? 
"I think the most challenging part of being a mother and working not just in the music industry, but any industry would have to me managing your time. I have done a great job at managing my time between work and making sure I am around for every significant moment in my children’s lives."

You've had many hairstyles throughout the years. With so many women going natural lately, would you ever consider it?
"I would consider going natural. I do what makes me feel good at that moment. If going natural so happens to be it, then so be it!"

What are a few of the beauty products that you absolutely can't live without? 
"I love Pink Luster products not only because I have worked with them, but because I've used it since before anyone ever knew who I was. They make great products that not only make your hair look good, but also keep it healthy which is important."

You've overcome so much in your life. What do you do to stay above the drama and as stress-free as possible? Do you do yoga or meditate?
"Praying and keeping God first has always helped me over come any difficulties in my life. I don’t allow myself to stress because it doesn’t change anything."

Do you still watch American Idol? 
"I still love American Idol and I am spilt between Joshua Ledet and Jessica Sanchez. I love both of them!"

What's your favorite Fantasia song?

Allison Samuels Celebrates Michelle Obama in "What Would Michelle Do?"

It's hard to believe that it's been nearly four years since Michelle Obama (aka FLOTUS) became the first African-American First Lady. Since that groundbreaking moment she has single-handedly changed how we BGs view ourselves. Prior to her appointment, we had never seen any first lady look even remotely like us.

That’s why award-winning journalist and author, Allison Samuels' new book, "What Would Michelle Do?" is a must-read for women of color who have been inspired by her elegance, fierce fashions, off-the-charts intellect, or more.

In the style of a detailed guide, “WWMD,” serves as the ultimate form of flattery toward the first lady while providing readers with insightful ways on how to be more like, well, Michelle.

From loving one's own unique beauty to effective parenting tips, “WWMD,” brilliantly chronicles and highlights Obama’s personal and professional achievements while allowing them to serve as examples of excellence for readers.

Perfect for Mother’s Day, this book is a great gift for your Michelle-loving mom, BFF, soror, or you!

Available in bookstores nationwide, as an e-book, and www.michellewould.com

What do you most admire about our first lady?

Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon Celebrate 4th Wedding Anniversary

With so many Hollywood couples splitting in the news, it's refreshing when we hear of those staying together and making it work. Superstar singer Mariah Carey and entertainer Nick Cannon are proving that celebrity marriages can last longer than 72 days (er, Kim Kardashian) by celebrating their 4th wedding anniversary today.

Through sickness and health, the proud parents of twins Moroccan and Monroe renewed their vows and celebrated their union in Paris this weekend.

In an interview, Cannon shared his thoughts on love, "dembabies," and being the inspiration behind Carey's fragrance, Forever.

This photo was taken on Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon's honeymoon in 2008. 

Check it out below:

Nick on how he felt the first time he met Mariah… 
"I presented her with an award at the Kid’s Choice Awards. I was so nervous but decided to take my chances and give her a kiss on the cheek! I had to have that kiss."

How Nick knew Mariah would be his forever love… 
"Mariah is a beautiful and talented person, and I’ve had a crush on her for as long as I can remember. Every day, my respect for Mariah continues to grow higher. She’s a caring, warm and funny person. People have no idea how funny she is! I feel like I’ve always known she was my forever love."

Nick on what it takes to be forever… 
"Nobody can predict the future. You just have to give your all to the relationship you’re in and do your best to take care of your partner, communicate and give them every last drop of love you have. I think one of the most important things in a relationship is caring for your significant other through good times and bad. To celebrate our lasting love, Mariah and I get married each year on our anniversary."

Nick on forever love… 
"To me a forever love is a bond that can’t be broken. It’s like my love for “dembabies” and Mariah. You go through difficult times, but as long as you hang on to the beautiful things, it’s great – even when it’s rough, it’s real."

Nick on being the inspiration behind Mariah’s fragrance, Forever… 
"It’s incredible. Who could really imagine somebody dedicating a fragrance for your love? I was pretty much in awe. I’ve learned a lot watching Mariah create such successful fragrances. Every time Mariah wears “Forever”, it takes me back to the passion and excitement of when we first fell in love."

Who's your favorite celebrity couple? 

Sneak Peek: "Sparkle" Trailer Featuring Whitney Houston

This morning Today exclusively revealed the first sneak peek of the much-anticipated Sparkle movie. Scheduled to be released in theaters August 17, the remake of the 1976 film is directed by Mara Brock and Salim Akil (creators of The Game) and stars the late Whitney Houston, Jordin Sparks, Tika Sumpter, Derek Luke, and Mike Epps.

Jordin Sparks and Whitney Houston in the movie, Sparkle.

Watch the trailer below:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Are you looking forward to seeing this film when it's released in August?

Oprah To Interview Bobbi Kristina

As reported last week, Oprah has landed the first interview with the late Whitney Houston's family. On Sunday, March 11, Lady O will sit down with the pop diva's sister/manager, brother, and the love of her life, her daughter: Bobbi Kristina.

I'm shocked that they're already speaking out about the passing of their beloved "Nippy," but everyone mourns differently. Also, I'm no psychologist, but perhaps talking publicly about their grief might be therapeutic. Whatever the case, I'll definitely be tuning in to hear what the Houston family has to say.

Watch a sneak peek below:

Oprah's Next Chapter will air on OWN Sunday, March 11 at 9pm/EST

Will you be tuning in? Did you watch Whitney Houston's funeral?

Brandy & Monica's New Video To Premiere Tonight

Brandy and Monica fans will be in for a treat today as the video for the reunited R&B duo's single, "It All Belongs To Me,"  premieres on Vh1 and Vh1.com.  Directed by Chris Robinson, the video will surely showcase the former teen stars in all their gorgeous grown-up glamour.

The video will air 11pm/EST.

Check out a few shots from the video set: 

All photos by: Adrian Sidney

Will you be tuning in? Also, is it me or does Monica look a little like La La Anthony in these stills? 

Nicole Ari Parker & Blair Underwood to Star in "A Streetcar Named Desire"

Looks like Broadway will soon be featuring a few of our favorite BGs and guys. Nicole Ari Parker and Blair Underwood, Wood Harris, and Daphne Rubin-Vegas will star in the incredibly popular play "A Streetcar Named Desire."

Based on the 1947 original by Tennessee Williams, the stellar cast directed by Emily Mann will surely bring a refreshing twist to the clash of class drama that captivated audiences for decades.

The rehearsals started earlier this week. I can't wait to see this play!

Pictured from L to R: Wood Harris, Nicole Ari Parker, Daphne Rubin-Vegas, and Blair Underwood.

Are you looking forward to seeing this Broadway play? What was the last good play/musical you've seen?

Sean "Diddy" Combs to Lead a 'Revolt'

We all know that Sean "Diddy" Combs "can't stop and won't stop," and so far he's holding true to his word. The music, fashion, and media mogul will add one more thing to his many hats: network owner. Yep, our favorite "bad boy" will join the ranks of Oprah's OWN with his new cable channel, Revolt. 

Scheduled to air in 2013, the Comcast-distributed network will reportedly feature music and pop culture programming with a heavy social media influence.

"Revolt is the first channel created entirely from the ground up in this new era of social media. We’re building this platform for artists to reach an extraordinary number of people in a completely different way. Revolt will be live, like all great moments in television history," Diddy said in a statement. 

In addition to Diddy's new television venture, Magic Johnson and Tyler Perry are reportedly also in the works on their own networks too. Stay tuned.

Will you tune in to Revolt? Do you watch OWN?

Trend-Setting Styles from 90s' Movie Sets

With the 84th annual Academy Awards airing this Sunday, I thought it would be fun to look back at some of our favorite old-school movies featuring BGs that made an impact on our style.

From Halle Berry’s short and sassy ‘do in  Strictly Business to Janet Jackson’s box braids in Poetic Justice to Nia Long’s lovely deep plum lip color in Love Jones, many BGs across the country went to great lengths to mimic these trailblazing beauty and hair trends from 90s' movies.

Take a trip down movie memory lane:

Halle Berry's role, in 1991's Strictly Business stole the show with her short hairstyle that sent thousands of BGs to salons throughout the country requesting the coveted cut.  

Boomerang showed us brown girls and guys in a refreshing professional light back in 1992, but Robin Givens' long and flowing weave gave hair mavens a new muse to emulate.  

Miss Janet Jackson, the ever-changing style chameleon, brought box-braids to the big screen with her film debut, Poetic Justice in 1993.

We all fell in love with 1997's Love Jones, but Nia Long's sleek wrap do' and daring dark lips also caught our attention. 

Did I miss any movies from the 90s or 2000s that set hair or beauty trends for us BGs? If so, tell me in the comments. Out of these movies mentioned, which was your favorite?

R.I.P Whitney Houston: We Will Always Love You

As a child born in the 80s, I like so many other young girls danced and pranced to the songs of Whitney Houston. Her megawatt smile captivated us as we fell in love with her incomparable voice. Throughout the years we saw the pop superstar soar to chart-topping highs and we unfortunately witnessed her ultimate demise.

While she publicly struggled with substance abuse for years, we loved her unconditionally and hoped that she'd recover and make a solid comeback. We imagined her wowing us once again with her powerful pipes, but due to various speculated reasons she was never able to reclaim her vocal prowess.

Whitney Houston 1963-2012

Even though she's sadly no longer physically present, her music movies, and fun-loving spirit will live on forever. She's now singing with the angels along with our beloved Michael Jackson and guest starring on Don Cornelius' Soul Train: The Heaven Edition. May she rest in peace.

What is your favorite Whitney Houston song/movie?