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Black America Web
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
The Premiere of Rickey Smiley's New Hulu Comedy Special ‘Fool-ish'
The premiere of Rickey Smiley's new Hulu comedy special Fool-ish brought out laughter, love—and standout fashion. Held at the Lyric Theater in Birmingham, Alabama, the red carpet was full of stylish guests who came out to support Smiley's long-awaited return to stand-up. Text 'RICKEY' to 71007 to join the Rickey Smiley Morning Show mobile club for exclusive news. ( Terms and conditions ). Smiley, the man of the hour, kept it classic in a tailored black suit and crisp white shirt, pairing it with his signature glasses and polished shoes. His look was simple but sharp—just like his comedy. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK . FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM . SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE . Several of Smiley's longtime friends and radio team members also showed out. Da Brat rocked a bold, oversized blazer and statement sneakers, staying true to her edgy streetwear style. Gary With Da Tea added his usual flair with a printed suit and bold accessories, while Special K kept it cool in a black-and-white ensemble topped off with designer shades. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR APP AND TAKE US WITH YOU ANYWHERE! Family and fans gathered to celebrate not just Smiley's return to comedy, but also his resilience. Fool-ish marks his first comedy special in over a decade and was inspired by personal growth and loss—including the tragic passing of his eldest son. 'It's not just about making people laugh,' Smiley said at the premiere. 'It's about sharing my truth and reminding folks there's always a reason to smile.' The special, which officially drops on Hulu May 30, was directed by David E. Talbert and filmed in Smiley's hometown. Whether guests came dressed in glam or kept it casual, the night was a reminder that Fool-ish is more than a comedy show—it's a celebration of life, faith, and community. HEAD BACK TO THE HOMEPAGE The Premiere of Rickey Smiley's New Hulu Comedy Special 'Fool-ish' was originally published on Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Source:R1 Digital / Reach Media Rickey Smiley Hulu comedy special 'Fool-ish' Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
Black America Web
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Chosen Journey: Toyalove's Non-Linear Path in Christian Hip-Hop
Source: R1 Digital / R1 Toyalove is carving a unique space within Christian hip-hop with her authentic voice and meaningful music. But her path to this platform has been anything but linear. A former athlete with dreams of playing professional basketball, she faced adversity when her height became a barrier, leading to moments of personal struggle. 'That's the first time I truly felt depression,' she shared, reflecting on the period when her identity seemed inextricably tied to basketball. Yet, amidst the heartbreak, she found a profound connection to faith and purpose. 'Before, I didn't know myself,' Toya explained. 'Christ is where my identity lies… it makes you better, it makes you bolder.' Her devotion led her to channel her love for poetry into music. The transformation from penning verses in her dorm to recording in a studio an hour from home marked the beginning of her artistic career. 'I did a freestyle, and my homeboy said, 'You need to take it serious.' That started it all.' Toya's music goes beyond mere melodies; it uplifts and inspires. 'I think people want healing music because everybody's going through something,' she said. For her, the goal is to provide substance and encouragement through soulful hooks and reflective lyrics. Despite facing criticism and doubts, including from loved ones, Toya remains steadfast. 'What a privilege… God chose me to do it,' she affirmed. Now, as she gears up for new projects in 2025, she's more determined than ever to use her platform to spread positivity and purpose. 'The rise of Christian hip-hop is here, and we're just getting started.' SEE ALSO Chosen Journey: Toyalove's Non-Linear Path in Christian Hip-Hop was originally published on
