Yesterday we saw the kickoff of LGBT History month. Today, October 2, Faith Evans releases a new studio album entitled R&B Divas which features artist from the reality show she launched of the same name. The show stars others soulful greats like Keke Wyatt, Syleena Johnson, Nicci Gilbert (leadsinger of the Michael Jackson founded girl group Brownstone), and Monifah Carter. On the show Monifah came out as a lesbian.
Monifah started making waves with the release of her first album Moods . . . Moments in 1996. This CD featured her first hit "I Miss You" which featured Heavy D. However for most lovers of R&B, she became a household name when her signature track "Touch It" made it on the charts. "Touch It," which was featured on her sophomore album Mohogany, was an instant dance classic with its provocative lyrics, urban groove and sensational video which featured beautiful dancing girls and hot men in uniforms.
As a huge fan of R&B music it was a big deal for me to learn about the show R&B divas. I'm not exaggerating when I say I own every album released by everyone on this show. These are beautiful women with powerful voices. However my excitement about the show was elevated even more when Monifah made her revelation about being a lesbian.
When I see people of color express the fact that they are same gender loving (especially when it's done in this type of context) it does my heart good. Pardon me for paraphrasing but Monifah has now set herself up as a role model for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow isn't enough. I keep hearing hat we live in a time where color doesn't matter anymore. But I think it is important to recognize the fact that Monifah is a black women working in a genre [R&B] supported primarily by black folks. And black folks have not always been embracing or affirming of the same-gender loving community. So kudos to her for walking in her truth and living an authentic life.
In honor of LGBT History month, please go out and support this project. Pick up a copy of the CD R&B Divas. Please watch R&B Divas on TV One. Or pick yourself up a copy of any of Monifah's older projects. If you are a fan of soulful music you will love the new album. There are many great songs here but my favorite at the moment has to be Lovin' Me which features all of the girls from the show. Get into the fan made video below.
Let me see you put your hands in the air if you love yourself!!!
1 comment:
I cannot explain how inspiring it was to see Monifah and her partner on this show! This made me feel good to see this, the only thing that bothered me was Michael's attitude toward Monifah's partner. I love the show and I am very proud of Monifah for being bold enough to put it out in the public eye.
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