Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is ready for his close-up and receives exactly that on the cover of Essence magazine’s latest issue.

It’s a season of shine for the 35-year-old actor, who is gearing up for the release of ‘Candyman’ – which he stars in as the lead.

Following the film’s August arrival, he’ll next be seen in ‘Matrix 4’ alongside Keanu Reeves.

Before all of that, check out Yahya’s Essence Summer Screen Kings photoshoot below, where quotes – including his views on the importance of Black women – also await…

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Only two days separate fans of Doja Cat from her third studio album, ‘Planet Her,’ but buzz over the June 25th project is set to boil over.

Sending fans into a frenzy two weeks ago with the unveiling of the effort’s 14-song tracklist (which features appearances from GRAMMY winners Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, and more), Doja’s now got tongues wagging with the recently revealed promotional shots designed to support the era.

Under the creative direction of Brett Alan Nelson and lens of iconic photographer David LaChapelle, the 25-year-old drop jaws with the out-of-this-world snaps – many of which are available inside for your vieweing pleasure.

Hop in:

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Though Jazmine Sullivan is busy enjoying the ongoing critical acclaim afforded to her latest body of work, ‘Heaux Tales,’ and Ciara is hard-at-work on her yet-titled 8th studio album, both R&B superstars are temporarily pressing pause on their musical endeavors for a good cause.

Get the details inside.

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At writing, Wale and Chris Brown sit in the top 10 of real-time Rap iTunes tally with their latest joint single, ‘Angles’ (released June 18).

In an effort to ensure the OG Parker-produced bop (which features a prominent sample of Diddy and Usher‘s 2001 hit ‘I Need A Girl’) replicates such placement on Billboard charts, the duo have unveiled its official accompanying music video.

Directed by Daniel CZ, the clip shows the hitmaking twosome having fun in the sun poolside while admiring some female forms from every angle.

The latest taste of music from Wale’s forthcoming ‘Folarin 2′ album, look inside to see the ‘Angles’ music video.

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Megan Thee Stallion trots to yet another impressive entry on the Hot 100, this time courtesy of her latest hit ‘Thot Sh*t.’

The Lil Ju-produced cut, which premiered June 18, raced to the top of YouTube and Twitter’s trending tallies thanks to chatter around its political, Aube Perrie-directed music video.  Streaming on the video platform, when coupled with radio airplay, digital download, and other calculated streaming figures, spelled for a handsome #16 debut on this week’s Hot 100.

Here are the figures that powered it to its premiere position:

• Streaming: ≈18 million U.S. streams
• Radio Airplay: ≈ 2 million audience impressions
• Digital Downloads: ≈ 9,000 sold

Marking the 7th top 20 hit of her career, the arrival of ‘Thot’ places her just two rungs under her 6th top 20 hit – Maroon 5‘s ‘Beautiful Mistakes’ – which is found at #14 this week.

Look inside to see what other songs join Meg’s two hits on this week’s TGJ Chart Check.

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It looks like Jazmine Sullivan may have some more ‘Heaux Tales’ to share.

See what we mean below…

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After a unique ascend, H.E.R. finally unwrapped her debut album ‘Back of My Mind’ this week.

The 21-track LP was preceded by the singer’s years on the live circuit and steady building an audience by way of critically acclaimed EPs and single releases.

The unorthodox approach has been proven fruitful for the songbird – who has nabbed multiple GRAMMYs, a Golden Globe, and an Oscar.

With her first full-length body of work here, many are anticipating how/if her preceding success will help the album fare.

Well, wonder no more because the first-week forecast is here.

Join us after the jump…

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The Culture’s Biggest Night, the BET Awards, returns for its 2021 ceremony this Sunday.

And alongside its honoring of many movers and shakers will be a seismic salute to the late, great DMX.

Full story below…

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New music from Ne-Yo is on the way!

For, the ‘So Sick’ singer has just revealed that he is eyeing a fall release for his upcoming album.

More details below…

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Check out Jazmine Sullivan, who covers the July/August issue of Essence Magazine. 

The soul-filled songbird has seen her star soar to higher heights with the release of her critically acclaimed EP ‘Heaux Tales’ – home of the Gold-certified ‘Pick Up Your Feelings.’

Sullivan’s recent success comes after a lengthy spell out of the spotlight.

Speaking with Issa Rae (who interviewed her for the publication), she opened up about her personal journey (including tearful therapy sessions), new music, and a whole lot more.

Peep pics and quotes below…

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J. Cole is hitting the road!

Fresh from topping the charts with his sixth studio album ‘The Off-Season,’ the MC has announced his like-titled trek.

Full story below…

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Chrissy Teigen is speaking out.

The entrepreneur has finally spoken out on camera amid her cyberbullying scandal.

Full story below…

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