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:

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?