Latest news with #JetMagazine
Boston Globe
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Danielle Spencer, child star on ‘What's Happening!!,' dies at 60
The show focused on Roger 'Raj' Thomas (Ernest Thomas), Freddie 'Rerun' Stubbs (Fred Berry), and Dwayne Nelson (Haywood Nelson) as they grew up in Los Angeles. Ms. Spencer played Dee, Raj's younger sister, on the original show for 65 episodes, and then again on the reboot, 'What's Happening Now!!,' for 16 episodes. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up 'I had never seen any young Black girl in that type of spotlight, so I didn't have a reference point in the media as to how to deal with this opportunity,' Ms. Spencer told Jet Magazine in 2014. 'I was from the Bronx. What I did was use my own family as the reference on how to portray my character.' Advertisement She became best known for her line 'Ooh, I'm telling Mama,' which fans would regularly say to her for years after. Advertisement 'I chuckle because everyone thinks it's original, so I have to act like it's new every time,' she told Black America Web. Ms. Spencer did not originally get the part after auditioning, she said in an interview with a Richmond CBS affiliate television station in 2016. But a month after her audition, she got a call to head out to Los Angeles — a culture shock for someone who grew up in the Bronx. The character was written as someone who did not hold her tongue and could give as good as she received. Decades after the show went off the air, Ms. Spencer said that her portrayal wasn't inspired by her true personality — at least, not totally. 'I did not have an older brother,' Ms. Spencer told the CBS affiliate. 'However, I had a lot of pent up sassiness because I wanted to be like that. And I had an excuse, so why not?' Danielle Louise Spencer was born June 24, 1965, in the Bronx. Her father, James Spencer, was a civil servant in New York, while her mother, Cheryl (Smith) Spencer, was a schoolteacher. Her acting career began around age 8. 'I realized early on in my acting classes that it was fun memorizing lines, putting on makeup and pretending to be different characters,' she told Jet Magazine. 'Acting really is therapeutic because you're able to relate to your characters and figure out what makes them tick while also infusing your own personality.' After 'What's Happening Now!!' went off the air in 1988, Ms. Spencer studied veterinary medicine at Tuskegee University in Alabama, graduating with a doctorate in 1993. (She obtained an undergraduate degree in marine biology from UCLA.) Advertisement From her telling, her love of animals started as a young girl. 'Ever since I was 5 years old, I can recall bringing my first pet home to my mom,' she told an interviewer in 2012. 'She's like, 'What is this?' I'm saying, 'You have to keep the pet. I mean, you can't throw it out.' And I'm screaming and crying. And she let me.' Her veterinary career lasted several decades. While her acting career mostly stopped with the role of Dee Thomas, she did appear as a veterinarian in the 1997 film 'As Good as It Gets.' During the production of the second season of 'What's Happening!!,' Ms. Spencer and her stepfather, Tim Pelt, were involved in a car crash that ultimately killed Pelt. Ms. Spencer was in a coma for three weeks, with a broken pelvis and limbs. But she healed and returned in time for the show's final season. She later credited Pelt and her mother, Cheryl Pelt, with being huge influences on her acting career, including helping select auditions to attend. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her brother, Jeremy Pelt. Nearly 20 years after the crash, Ms. Spencer developed health problems related to it. In 2004, she began experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis that left her close to paralysis, and that doctors attributed to the crash. In addition, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014 and underwent a double mastectomy. She said she leaned on her family to get through it. 'They didn't want me to think of suicide even though I had considered it,' Ms. Spencer recalled in a 2016 interview on the Oprah Winfrey Network. She required emergency brain surgery in 2018. Advertisement In 2016, she was inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. 'I still can't believe it,' she told Black America Web when she found out about the honor. 'That's something people can look at for years to come, long after I'm gone.' This article originally appeared in
Black America Web
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Remembering Jet Magazine's Top 20 Singles Chart & Its Impact On Exposing Black Music
Source: Scott Olson / Getty Jet Magazine, a cultural mainstay in the African American community, has long been celebrated for capturing the pulse of Black America. Among its many features, the 'Top 20 Singles of the Week' chart became an essential barometer of musical success, offering a unique lens into the evolving soundtracks of Black culture. From its inception to its lasting legacy, this chart mirrored the rhythms, struggles, and victories of a community and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Origins of the Chart Jet Magazine was launched by John H. Johnson in 1951 as a companion to his first publication, Ebony . While Ebony focused on photo spreads of Black excellence, Jet served as a weekly digest of news, culture, and entertainment. Recognizing the centrality of music to Black life and identity, Jet introduced the 'Top 20 Singles of the Week' chart in the 1950s. Its mission was to spotlight the songs that resonated within the community, distinct from mainstream pop charts that often neglected Black artists. Authenticity defined the Jet chart. Its rankings weren't just about radio airplay or sales but about what truly mattered to its audience. It celebrated not just hits but cultural touchstones, elevating R&B, soul, gospel, and later hip-hop as they rose to prominence. Cultural Significance Before the digital age allowed instant access to music, Jet's Top 20 chart was a lifeline for fans eager to stay connected to the latest sounds. Its influence stemmed from its role as both a tastemaker and a time capsule. Each week, the chart reflected the collective mood, aspirations, and energy of Black America. It affirmed identities and uplifted artists who were often overlooked or underestimated by mainstream music platforms. More than just a list of songs, the chart captured key moments in Black history. During the Civil Rights Movement, tracks like Sam Cooke's 'A Change Is Gonna Come' resonated deeply and rose through the rankings, embodying the quest for equality. Later, in the 1980s and 1990s, hip-hop's ascendancy was chronicled in real-time through artists like Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Tupac Shakur, as their anthems became staples of the chart. Reflections of Change Over the decades, the chart told the story of music's evolution and, by extension, shifting cultural landscapes. Early charts were dominated by soul and rhythm & blues, celebrating pioneers like James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye. These artists laid the foundation for the genre's crossover success while maintaining their roots in Black culture. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, disco fever hit the chart, with artists like Donna Summer and the Jacksons delivering infectious dance tracks that united people on the floors of nightclubs. The 1990s brought a wave of hip-hop and neo-soul, with artists like Lauryn Hill and Maxwell bridging the gap between old school and new school influences. Each entry on the chart bore witness to the community's changing tastes and values. Impact on the Music Industry Jet's chart was more than a reflection of its audience's preferences; it was a tool for shaping the music industry's recognition of Black talent. Record labels paid attention to Jet's rankings, treating the chart as an indicator of what would succeed commercially. For many Black artists, landing on Jet's Top 20 signified both representation and validation, a milestone that reflected their connection with the audience that mattered most. The chart also played a vital role in breaking boundaries. It challenged mainstream industry norms by shining a light on independent and emerging artists, sometimes serving as a stepping stone to broader success. When traditional institutions overlooked genres like rap or downplayed the rise of regional music scenes, Jet tipped its hat early, amplifying a diversity of voices. Key Milestones The chart's long history encompasses numerous defining moments: The emergence of Motown classics in the 1960s, with chart toppers like The Supremes and Marvin Gaye setting new standards for crossover appeal. The rise of funk and disco in the 1970s, led by groundbreaking acts like Parliament-Funkadelic and Earth, Wind & Fire. The explosion of hip-hop in the 1980s and 1990s, reflecting the growing dominance of the genre as a voice for a new generation. The recognition of female R&B stars in the 2000s, with artists like Beyoncé and Alicia Keys dominating the rankings and ushering in an era of empowered Black women in music. A Legacy of Influence Jet Magazine's 'Top 20 Singles of the Week' chart ended its run when the publication ceased print production in 2014, transitioning to a digital-only format. However, its legacy endures. It stands as both a reminder of the power of music to connect people and an archive of Black America's evolving tastes and triumphs. From soul-stirring ballads to defiant rap lyrics, the chart encapsulated the heartbeat of a culture. While Jet's print days have ended, its soundtrack remains timeless. The 'Top 20 Singles of the Week' chart wasn't just a list of hits; it was, and still is, a symbol of joy, resilience, and artistry in the African American experience. Want to know what was on Jet's Top 20 Singles around this time 35 years ago? Scroll down to find out! (Featuring Jet's Top 20 Singles the week of June 11, 1990) Remembering Jet Magazine's Top 20 Singles Chart & Its Impact On Exposing Black Music was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
San Francisco Chronicle
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
The stories behind all of Sean ‘Diddy' Combs' name changes as the hip-hop mogul heads to trial
In the criminal indictment for this week's sex trafficking trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, the document lists many of the hip-hop mogul's aliases. Most people, especially music fans, probably already know them. From 'Puff Daddy' to 'P. Diddy' and even the obscure 'Brother Love,' here's a look back at Combs' self-appointed names and what was going on during his career in each era. Puff Daddy His childhood nickname was Puffy because, as he told Jet Magazine in 1998, he used to huff and puff when he got mad. Hence the early stage name: Puff Daddy. In these days, he was side by side with fellow New York City rapper Notorious B.I.G., the star of Combs' Bad Boy record label. In 1998, Combs won two Grammys, one for best rap album for his debut 'No Way Out' and another for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'I'll Be Missing You' with Faith Evans. The song memorialized Notorious B.I.G., who was fatally shot in 1997 in a case that remains unsolved. This was during the East vs. West rap rivalry, particularly with Tupac Shakur from California and his team at Death Row Records. Shakur was fatally shot in 1996. Combs also started his fashion line Sean John, his first and middle name, in 1998. P. Diddy The shift to P. Diddy unfolded in 2001, not long after Combs was acquitted of gun and bribery charges from when he and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez, fled a shooting that wounded three people at a New York City nightclub. Some witnesses told police that Combs was among the people shooting in the club. Combs noted at the time that Notorious B.I.G. came up with the nickname P. Diddy. Under this new name, Combs reached new heights of success. He became the producer and star of the talent-search TV show 'Making the Band' in 2002, performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004 and weeks later won a Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'Shake Ya Tailfeather.' Diddy He dropped the 'P.' from his artist nickname in 2005. He told the 'Today' show at the time that fans at concerts weren't doing well chanting P. Diddy. Still, he ran into issues using Diddy for his 2006 album 'Press Play' due to a lawsuit by British DJ Richard 'Diddy' Dearlove over the use of the name. His legal issues and his stardom continued. In 2008, Diddy settled a lawsuit brought by a man who claims Diddy punched him after a post-Oscar party outside a Hollywood hotel the previous year. Roughly two months later, Combs is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Swag For just a week in May 2011, Combs even changed his name to 'Swag,' posting in a video online that it was part of his 'comeback' after a bad illness. Love, a.k.a. Brother Love He posted on social media in November 2017 that he was celebrating his birthday by changing his name to 'Love, a.k.a. Brother Love.' Combs said he would not be answering to Puffy, Diddy, Puff Daddy or any of his other monikers. He said at the time that he knew it was risky and would be corny to change his name again, but he said he had changed as a person and was not who he was before. Later that month, he said was joking about the name change and people could use any of his older names. In 2021, he announced that he had legally changed his middle name to Love. A year later, he clarified on the 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' that Diddy remains his stage name. He released "The Love Album - Off the Grid" in 2023. As his sex trafficking trial began Monday, the judge read off a list of his monikers to prospective jurors, telling them, 'There is one defendant: Sean Combs.'
Winnipeg Free Press
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
The stories behind all of Sean ‘Diddy' Combs' name changes as the hip-hop mogul heads to trial
In the criminal indictment for this week's sex trafficking trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, the document lists many of the hip-hop mogul's aliases. Most people, especially music fans, probably already know them. From 'Puff Daddy' to 'P. Diddy' and even the obscure 'Brother Love,' here's a look back at Combs' self-appointed names and what was going on during his career in each era. Puff Daddy His childhood nickname was Puffy because, as he told Jet Magazine in 1998, he used to huff and puff when he got mad. Hence the early stage name: Puff Daddy. In these days, he was side by side with fellow New York City rapper Notorious B.I.G., the star of Combs' Bad Boy record label. In 1998, Combs won two Grammys, one for best rap album for his debut 'No Way Out' and another for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'I'll Be Missing You' with Faith Evans. The song memorialized Notorious B.I.G., who was fatally shot in 1997 in a case that remains unsolved. This was during the East vs. West rap rivalry, particularly with Tupac Shakur from California and his team at Death Row Records. Shakur was fatally shot in 1996. Combs also started his fashion line Sean John, his first and middle name, in 1998. P. Diddy The shift to P. Diddy unfolded in 2001, not long after Combs was acquitted of gun and bribery charges from when he and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez, fled a shooting that wounded three people at a New York City nightclub. Some witnesses told police that Combs was among the people shooting in the club. Combs noted at the time that Notorious B.I.G. came up with the nickname P. Diddy. Under this new name, Combs reached new heights of success. He became the producer and star of the talent-search TV show 'Making the Band' in 2002, performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004 and weeks later won a Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'Shake Ya Tailfeather.' Diddy He dropped the 'P.' from his artist nickname in 2005. He told the 'Today' show at the time that fans at concerts weren't doing well chanting P. Diddy. Still, he ran into issues using Diddy for his 2006 album 'Press Play' due to a lawsuit by British DJ Richard 'Diddy' Dearlove over the use of the name. His legal issues and his stardom continued. In 2008, Diddy settled a lawsuit brought by a man who claims Diddy punched him after a post-Oscar party outside a Hollywood hotel the previous year. Roughly two months later, Combs is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Swag For just a week in May 2011, Combs even changed his name to 'Swag,' posting in a video online that it was part of his 'comeback' after a bad illness. Love, a.k.a. Brother Love He posted on social media in November 2017 that he was celebrating his birthday by changing his name to 'Love, a.k.a. Brother Love.' Combs said he would not be answering to Puffy, Diddy, Puff Daddy or any of his other monikers. He said at the time that he knew it was risky and would be corny to change his name again, but he said he had changed as a person and was not who he was before. Later that month, he said was joking about the name change and people could use any of his older names. In 2021, he announced that he had legally changed his middle name to Love. A year later, he clarified on the 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' that Diddy remains his stage name. He released 'The Love Album – Off the Grid' in 2023. As his sex trafficking trial began Monday, the judge read off a list of his monikers to prospective jurors, telling them, 'There is one defendant: Sean Combs.'
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The stories behind all of Sean ‘Diddy' Combs' name changes as the hip-hop mogul heads to trial
In the criminal indictment for this week's sex trafficking trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, the document lists many of the hip-hop mogul's aliases. Most people, especially music fans, probably already know them. From 'Puff Daddy' to 'P. Diddy' and even the obscure 'Brother Love,' here's a look back at Combs' self-appointed names and what was going on during his career in each era. Puff Daddy His childhood nickname was Puffy because, as he told Jet Magazine in 1998, he used to huff and puff when he got mad. Hence the early stage name: Puff Daddy. In these days, he was side by side with fellow New York City rapper Notorious B.I.G., the star of Combs' Bad Boy record label. In 1998, Combs won two Grammys, one for best rap album for his debut 'No Way Out' and another for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'I'll Be Missing You' with Faith Evans. The song memorialized Notorious B.I.G., who was fatally shot in 1997 in a case that remains unsolved. This was during the East vs. West rap rivalry, particularly with Tupac Shakur from California and his team at Death Row Records. Shakur was fatally shot in 1996. Combs also started his fashion line Sean John, his first and middle name, in 1998. P. Diddy The shift to P. Diddy unfolded in 2001, not long after Combs was acquitted of gun and bribery charges from when he and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez, fled a shooting that wounded three people at a New York City nightclub. Some witnesses told police that Combs was among the people shooting in the club. Combs noted at the time that Notorious B.I.G. came up with the nickname P. Diddy. Under this new name, Combs reached new heights of success. He became the producer and star of the talent-search TV show 'Making the Band' in 2002, performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004 and weeks later won a Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group for 'Shake Ya Tailfeather.' Diddy He dropped the 'P.' from his artist nickname in 2005. He told the 'Today' show at the time that fans at concerts weren't doing well chanting P. Diddy. Still, he ran into issues using Diddy for his 2006 album 'Press Play' due to a lawsuit by British DJ Richard 'Diddy' Dearlove over the use of the name. His legal issues and his stardom continued. In 2008, Diddy settled a lawsuit brought by a man who claims Diddy punched him after a post-Oscar party outside a Hollywood hotel the previous year. Roughly two months later, Combs is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Swag For just a week in May 2011, Combs even changed his name to 'Swag,' posting in a video online that it was part of his 'comeback' after a bad illness. Love, a.k.a. Brother Love He posted on social media in November 2017 that he was celebrating his birthday by changing his name to 'Love, a.k.a. Brother Love.' Combs said he would not be answering to Puffy, Diddy, Puff Daddy or any of his other monikers. He said at the time that he knew it was risky and would be corny to change his name again, but he said he had changed as a person and was not who he was before. Later that month, he said was joking about the name change and people could use any of his older names. In 2021, he announced that he had legally changed his middle name to Love. A year later, he clarified on the 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' that Diddy remains his stage name. He released "The Love Album - Off the Grid" in 2023. As his sex trafficking trial began Monday, the judge read off a list of his monikers to prospective jurors, telling them, 'There is one defendant: Sean Combs.'
