Book Buy: ‘Vintage Black Glamour’ Showcases Stunning Rarely Seen Photographs of African-American Female Entertainers, Poets, Actors and More!

If there’s one quirky thing about me that most people don’t know, it’s that I LOVE looking at old photos. I can get lost for hours poring over vintage photos from my family and friends or even historical shots of my beloved hometown Chicago. Heck, I was even a photo editor for a national magazine once upon a time!

That’s why I’m so excited that the highly anticipated book (of the same name) as the popular blog, “Vintage Black Glamour,” by Nichelle Gainer is finally available for purchase. The sleek, hard-cover book features dozens of fabulous rarely accessed photos from some of our most acclaimed female African-American socialites, actors, writers, dancers and entertainers who worked during the 20th century.

VINTAGE BLACK GLAMOUR will be published on October 14, 2014 and is available from Rocket 88 Books, only at vintageblackglamourbook.com.

VINTAGE BLACK GLAMOUR will be published on October 14, 2014 and is available from Rocket 88 Books, only at vintageblackglamourbook.com, $70

Greats such  such as Eartha Kitt (who’s the book’s cover girl), Dorothy Dandridge, Diana Ross and a host of others grace the pages. While some of the women featured are nothing short of iconic, the book also boasts a bevy of lesser-known beauties as well.

Opera singer Margaret Tyne, who performed with Duke Ellington in the 1950s. Photo Courtesy: Vintage Black Glamour

In fact, the author, whom I’ve chatted with throughout the years was inspired to create the blog-turned-book by her great aunt and opera singer, Margaret Tyne, who performed with the legendary Duke Ellington during the 1950s. Gainer curated the book (and blog) by visiting libraries and combing through countless archives and photographs of glamourous black women.

Dancer Adelaide Hall

Dancer Adelaide Hall. Photo Courtesy: Vintage Black Glamour

Actress and singer Lena Horne

Actress and singer Lena Horne. Photo Courtesy: Vintage Black Glamour

Poet and singer, Nina Simone

Jazz singer, songwriter Nina Simone. Photo Courtesy: Vintage Black Glamour

The stunning photographs are each accompanied with enlightening profiles providing readers a glimpse into the lives of these talented women.

If you admire old school style and sophistication that only we BGs can bring, then this coffee table book is a must-have! It will make the perfect gift for the upcoming holiday season for all the BGs on your list.

Who’s your favorite “vintage black glamour” star or is she someone in your very own family?

Oprah Winfrey Wants to Read to You: ‘What I Know For Sure’ Column Released as Audiobook

If you’re a fan of O, The Oprah Magazine’s inspirational monthly column, “What I Know For Sure,” you’re in luck!

Earlier this month, Oprah Winfrey released an audiobook of the same title including some of her most insightful words of wisdom and revelations spanning 14 years from the popular column.

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Narrated by the media mogul, the updated and revised collection of essays exemplifies her superb oratory skills making them even more compelling.

What I Know For Sure rollout

What I Know For Sure (Audiobook),” by Oprah Winfrey available here, $18

The 4-disc book is organized by themes such as: gratitude, clarity, resilience, connection and similar categories. Ideal for those times when you need a little pick-me-up, this audiobook allows you to listen to one of the most powerful and uplifting individuals for knowledgeable nuggets for navigating your best life.

This will surely be my go-to self-help guide for years to come!

Listen below for an excerpt:

Tupac’s Lyrics Inspire Broadway’s New Musical ‘Holler If Ya Hear Me’

Yesterday would’ve been Tupac (2Pac) Shakur’s 43rd birthday.

It’s hard to believe that I was only 16 when the iconic rapper, poet, activist and actor was shot and killed in Las Vegas. Fast forward 18 years and fans like me are still being captivated by his prolific lyrics. This time not just on our iPods, but on Broadway.

This past Saturday I was invited to see, “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” a musical inspired by the late rapper’s lyrics. Being that I’ve been a fan of Tupac’s music since I was a teen, I was excited to see the show. Admittedly,  at first I was a bit hesitant when I saw the commercial featuring the show’s star, Saul Williams. Initially, I thought the musical was going to be about Tupac’s life; so I felt Williams was an interesting choice to play the part. Luckily, prior to the show I did my research and realized that the show wouldn’t be based on Tupac at all, just his lyrics.

Holler-If-Ya-Hear-Me-Musical

Directed by Kenny Leon, the man behind Broadway’s hit “Motown,” “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” is an all too familiar story—a man (Williams) tempted to go back to a life of crime after the death of a friend cut down by gun violence. The story also includes sub-plots about family, love, change, race, hope and friendship. While the storyline may have been a bit average, the way in which the plot weaved in with some of his greatest songs was nothing short of brilliant.

Fans of Tupac know just how versatile his work was and the show exemplified that talent. With songs such as “Keep Ya Head Up,” “Dear Mama,” and “Life Goes On,” viewers who may have been unfamiliar with his lyrics were given a glimpse into his inspiring mindset. While lyrics from “Hail Mary” and “If I Die 2night” provided a look into his more emotional, darker side. And, his political and even light-hearted views were showcased in songs like the show’s namesake, “Holler If Ya Hear Me” and the playful, “I Get Around.”

Broadway veteran actress Tonya Pinkins, along with the show’s leads: Saul Williams, Christopher Jackson, Saycon Sengbloh, as well as the supporting cast were incredibly charismatic and energetic making the show entertaining from start to finish. At times, it felt like a concert!

Although we’ll never know if  Tupac would’ve approved of his work being featured on the Great White Way, we can rest assured that his mom, Afeni Shakur, gives it her stamp of approval since she serves as one of the show’s producers.

The show is a great testament to just how much of a cultural influence and impact his music had on an entire generation. Mesmerizing performances and legendary music make “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” a must-see for those looking to take a nostalgic trip back in time when Tupac’s music reigned supreme; to me, it still does.

Holler If Ya Hear Me,” is currently in previews and officially opens June 19 at the Palace Theater in New York City. Tickets are on sale  here!

Have you seen “Holler If Ya Hear Me?” If so, what are your thoughts? If not, what’s your favorite Tupac song?

Remembering Dr. Maya Angelou: One of America’s Greatest Treasures

Yesterday, I learned of Dr. Maya Angelou’s passing en route to my children’s doctor’s appointments. As I schlepped toward the subway with two kids in tow, I got several back-to-back text messages from friends and family alerting me of her death.

After being in the pediatrician’s office for what seemed like an eternity and just being a busy mom in the evening, I didn’t have a chance to write about the prolific poet and author. In this fast-paced 24/7 news cycle, people may be on to the next big story, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Dr. Angelou’s legacy today.

I remember reading her autobiography, “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings,” in elementary school like so many other young African-American girls and connecting to her story in ways I had never connected before. In fact, that book single-handedly made me fall in love with reading biographies and autobiographies (my favorite book genre).

Throughout the years, I’ve found myself quoting lines from her poems, speeches, books, etc.  Who hasn’t repeated one of her most famous quotes, “When a person shows you who they are, believe them the first time?” She had such a special way of making the most profound concepts seem so simple.

The late thought-provoking  activist and teacher’s wisdom will live on in our hearts and through her brilliant work forever. She was indeed a phenomenal woman!

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Here are a few more popular Dr. Angelou quotes (via ABC News):

“If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love.”

“The truth is, no one of us can be free until everybody is free.”

“I’m a woman Phenomenally.”

“Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.”

“Nothing will work unless you do.”

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.”

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

“Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances.”

“While one may encounter many defeats, one must not be defeated.”

“My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry; to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return.”

What’s your favorite Dr. Maya Angelou quote?

Kelly Rowland Joins Caress as New ‘Fabulista’

In case you haven’t heard, Kelly Rowland is the new “Fabulista” for Caress body washes.

Known for her flawless healthy-looking skin, it seems only fitting that the Grammy-award winning singer would be tapped by the Unilever brand to be its newest ambassador.

In her role, Kelly will follow in her BFF Lala Anthony’s (she was also a Caress Fabulista) footsteps by sharing beauty and fashion tips with consumers and showing them how fresh fragrances inspire her to be fabulous.

Kelly-Rowland

Through her partnership with Caress, the brand has launched the new Fresh Collection of body washes including: Emerald Rush (also has a beauty bar), Aqua Sparkle and Juicy Escape. Each of the shower gels is refreshingly fragrant and leaves just the right amount of scent on skin. Since I’m a sucker for citrusy smells, Juicy Escape is my favorite because it has notes of pink grapefruit.

Caress

Caress Fresh Collection is available at drugstores nationwide, $5.99

Watch Kelly give us a sneak peek into the upcoming Caress® S/S ’14 Lookbook

I recently caught up with the former Destiny’s Child beauty to inquire about her favorite scent from the collection, her role as a Fabulista and more!

Check out our Q&A  below: 

BGG: I’m sure you’re offered many partnership opportunities from various brands. Why did you want to team up with Caress?

Kelly Rowland: As an artist, finding inspiration from my surroundings is so important. I’m so excited to team up with Caress Body Wash to help launch the NEW Fresh Collection. Starting my day off with a little fresh fine fragrance gets me revitalized and ready to experience my day to the fullest potential. I’ve been using Caress products for years, and when I got a sneak peek of the new line, I loved it, and knew my fans would too!

BGG: What does being a “Fabulista” mean to you?

KR: I’m so excited to be one of the newest Caress Fabulistas. It’s a celebration of being fabulous and a fashionista! Being part of this amazing group of beauty and style icons gives me the platform to share tips I’ve learned along my journey on how to be fabulous. I’m so excited to join Caress to inspire my fans to enjoy every day experiences in a fresh new way.

BGG: I know they all smell lovely, but out of the three new Fresh collection body washes, what’s your favorite scent?

KR: I love the Caress Emerald Rush from the new Fresh Collection because I’ve always loved the revitalizing scent of lush gardenia and white tea. I also love the Juicy Escape body wash to start my day – so uplifting!

BGG: What is the one style trend that you’re looking forward to trying this spring/summer?

KR: I am LOVING Pastels!

BGG: What’s the most inspiring time of day for you? When do you feel the most creative?

KR: It doesn’t matter what time of day, inspiration brings my creativity to life!

BGG: When do you feel the most beautiful?

KR: When I’m with my family, I feel happy and loved – and beautiful.

BGG: I’m sure it’s hard to choose just one, but if you can what is your all-time favorite song (solo or as a member of Destiny’s Child) to perform? Why?

KR: My favorite song to perform is “Motivation” because it really makes me feel sexy.

BGG: What’s the one song from any artist that can instantly boost your mood?

KR: Right now, I’m loving “Happy” by Pharrell.

Do you use Caress body washes? What’s your favorite Kelly Rowland or Destiny’s Child song?

GIVEAWAY & Interview: Sarah Jakes Author of ‘Lost & Found’

Sarah Jakes may have a famous father (Bishop T.D. Jakes), but the mom of two is well on her way to becoming a household name in her own right.

In her brand new memoir “Lost & Found: Finding Hope in the Detours of Life,” Jakes shares her story of being a mom at 14, living under a microscope, becoming a divorcée and overcoming life’s obstacles while strengthening and maintaining her faith.

Photo via: sarahjakes.com

Photo via: sarahjakes.com

At only 25, Jakes has mastered a writing style that is conversational and completely transparent. “Lost & Found,” draws readers in as if you’re peeking into your best friend’s or sister’s diary. She doesn’t shy away from providing in-depth details about her life that some may view as less-than-favorable (especially being the daughter of a renowned pastor), but instead includes them in hopes that they will serve as examples to inspire and encourage other young women.

I recently spoke with the West Virginia-born author to discuss her book, her favorite beauty product and more!

Sarah-Jakes“Lost & Found” will be released April 1st here, $18.49

Check out the Q&A below:

BGG: Congratulations on such a great read! I know that you will touch so many young women with your story.

Sarah Jakes: Thank you so much. I’m so excited and anxious to finally get it out.

BGG: The entire book is so enlightening, but what is the most important thing that you’d want readers to take from your book?

SJ: It’s my prayer that people will read the book and not just see my story but see parts of themselves and their thought patterns that they may have had about themselves and then hopefully take those thoughts (like I had to learn how to do) and use them to empower yourself and be more transparent with our fellow sisters. I think Sometimes we can feel isolated when we have an opportunity to help one another by discussing the challneges that we face. I hope that it opens a discussion that continues for years and years to come.

BGG: What if any was the most difficult part of your memoir to write?

SJ: I think talking about my marriage was probably one of the most difficult parts becaues I’m not sure that I realized until I sat down to read the book exactly how lost I was and how hurt and broken I was. Reliving those moments and revisiting them were very hard.

BGG: When you were approached by book publishers (after telling your story at a women’s conference), did you ever have any hesitation about essentially sharing your story with the world?

SJ: Well, when they first approached me about writing my memoir I didn’t think I had enough material to write a memoir. So that was my only hesitancy. After I wrote the memoir, I said there are quite a few things in here! (laughing)

BGG: Growing up did you ever think you’d become an author?

SJ: Absolutely not. I never thought that writing was a gift. We learned to write in grade school so I thought that everyone wrote. I never thought it was anything special; I thought everyone did it. It wasn’t until I started my blog that I recognized that I might really have a gift.

BGG: Would you say starting your blog (in 2010) essentially changed your life?

SJ: It completely changded my life. That’s why I could never regret any of the things that I faced with my marriage because it allowed me to learn and develop a gift that I had not discovered. Also, I think there was something about knowing that I wasn’t alone that made me feel like if everyone is hurting maybe we can all heal.

BGG: Besides your father, is there anyone else whom you look to for spiritual guidance?

SJ: Funny as this may sound, I really look at my children. I admire their ability to bounce back and to make amends with friends. They have such forgiving and loving hearts because they haven’t been jaded by life yet. So I always try to look at them and say if they can laugh after wailing and crying seconds ago, then I can too. We are more resilient than we give ourselves credit for.

BGG: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

SJ: Most recently someone told me to be careful reading the book reviews with the negative headlines and I thought that was really good for me. A lot of times critics might look at my story and compare it to other authors. I didn’t grow up feeling like I wanted to be this author, I’m just a person who’s sharing her story. Also, Dr. Nicole (her marriage counselor) told me to own my process. Meaning, don’t let your process fit other people’s expectations.

BGG: In this nonstop digital age with so many distractions at our fingertips, how do you stay spiritually connected on a daily basis?

SJ: The one thing I do constantly is that I’m always checking in with God. I’m always praying in some form all throughout the day. They’re not long expressive prayers like we have at night and in the morning, but there are so many opportunities to thank Him for the smallest things. I’ve found that since I’ve done that and made it my mission to find something to be thankful for at every moment beautiful things have bloomed in my life. It’s like we’re planting seeds.

BGG: I’m going to shift gears a bit. What’s the one beauty product that you can’t live without?

SJ: Whoop Ash body lotion! I saw it on TV (“Hollywood Exes” star Sheree Fletcher created the brand) and thought the name was funny. I buy like 10 jars at a time! I also give them out as gifts. I love it! (Check out my review here)

BGG: Who are some of your favorite clothing designers?

SJ: I’m pretty classic with my style. Every now and then I’ll add something trendy to the classic look. From day-to-day it’s probably tomboy chic because I’m always running the kids to school or running errands. Oh and Target is my favorite store. When I have to get dressed up for events I always call on J. Bolin who’s been styling me. He gets me together whether it’s a piece from H&M that we jazz up with accessories from J. Crew, but I try to be economical because I’m still a mom and I’m planning for the future. I don’t go too far into the really expensive designers.

BGG: Where do you hope to be in 5 years when you’re 30?

SJ: I believe people will be probably be comparing me to Oprah because I’ll have my own talk show! I pray that whatever I do whether it’s blogging, writing or ending up on television that my message continues to be relatable, transparent and leads people back to God.

BGG: If you could tell your 15-year-old self one thing what would it be?

SJ: Slow down and pace yourself; you don’t have to move that fast.

Sarah oversees the women’s ministry at The Potter’s House of Dallas, the church led by her parents, Bishop T.D. Jakes and Mrs. Serita Jakes. Also, be sure to check out her blog sarahjakes.com.

**One lucky reader will win a copy of “Lost & Found.” Simply leave a comment sharing what bit of advice would you tell your teenage self? The winner will be randomly selected and announced next Wednesday, April 2nd. This giveaway is only open to U.S residents)

Lupita Nyong’o Stuns at Oscars!

Last night, little brown girls everywhere were reminded that dreams do come true.

At the 86th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, Lupita Nyong’o became only the sixth black actress to win the coveted Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. The 31-year-old co-star of the stirring 12 Years a Slave stunned in a light blue Prada gown that reminded the actress of Nairobi, a sparkly Fred Leighton headband and jewels.

LUPITAPhoto credit: OscarGo.com

During her emotionally riveting acceptance speech, the Kenyan beauty spoke words that will inspire young girls and boys around the world for years to come when she uttered, “When I look down at this golden statue, may it remind me and every child, no matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”

Well done, Lupita, well done!

P.S For all of my fellow beauty buffs who were wondering what brand of lip balm the award-winning actress tossed in the hat for Ellen’s hilarious pizza pool schtick? Well, it’s Clarins ‘HydraQuench’ Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm! The ultra-hyrdating balm sold out almost across the country overnight!

ClarinsAvailable here, $24

Check out the funny gif here:

http://31.media.tumblr.com/faeabf9db2915d009ebce14ac23780e0/tumblr_n1uf5xwGRG1r9us6no3_500.gif

 Did you watch the Academy Awards last night? If so, who do you think deserves best dressed?