Mya Abraham
Verified
As seen in:
MSN,
MSN New Zealand,
MSN Philippines,
Yahoo Entertainment,
Yahoo Life,
Yahoo News,
BuzzFeed,
Yahoo Finance,
Rolling Stone,
Substack
and
Covers:
Music, Culture, Entertainment, and Lifestyle
Doesn't Cover:
Politics
@playthebsides 🤎 formerly R&B @ VIBE. myabriabe@gmail.com
Articles by Mya Abraham
Kehlani’s World Tour Became a Full-Circle Moment at the Los Angeles Stop Original
Since last summer, Kehlani’s “Folded” has sent the singer-songwriter into a new stratosphere and ultimately earned her her first Grammy wins. Day-one fans who’d been around since her 2013 loosies — “ANTISUMMERLUV” and “Raw And True” — and her 2014 debut EP, Cloud 19, already knew she’d have an award-winning career. On Thursday night (Sept. 24), everything truly came full circle during the Los Angeles stop of her self-titled world tour.
Adam Blackstone: Collaboration Was The Secret Sauce Behind Jay-Z’s Yankee Stadium Shows Original
Adam Blackstone is only in competition with himself. At the young age of four, he fell in love with music. Later, his elementary school music teacher encouraged him to switch from drums to bass. His foundation earned him a full scholarship to the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he majored in Jazz Performance and played in the musical theater pit band and at local venues, including jazz clubs, restaurants, and open mic nights—where he met Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson.
Erica Campbell and Le’Andria Johnson Tribute Richard Smallwood, Clive Davis at 2026 BET Awards Original
To kick off the evening’s tributes, Erica Campbell and Le’Andria Johnson came through to honor all of the lives lost over the past year, particularly the life and legacy of gospel legend Richard Smallwood. Accompanied by a choir, Campbell put her heart and soul into her rendition of “I Love The Lord,” which Smallwood wrote and composed in 1970 before it was popularized by Whitney Houston in 1996 for The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack.
D’Angelo’s BET Awards Tribute Showcased the Underrated Side of His Legacy Original
Although the GRAMMYs understood the assignment when it came to paying tribute to the late D’Angelo, BET Awards producers knew they couldn’t be upstaged. For Sunday night’s tribute, they tapped into the singer’s deep cuts to spotlight the underrated side of his legacy in a brilliant, vibrant way. That legacy, though, starts with his children, Morocco, Imani, and Swayvo, who introduced the tribute performance set.
Kehlani Bids Farewell To “Folded” With Ethereal BET Awards Performance Original
When Jamie Foxx appeared onstage, alongside his daughter Anelise at the 2026 BET Awards, viewers didn’t know what to expect beyond the heartfelt father-daughter moment. Turns out, the beloved crooner was actually introducing Kehlani’s highly anticipated performance of her Grammy-winning ballad, “Folded.” Since its June 2025 release, the songbird’s breakout hit has been heard by the masses and performed on every major stage.
The 10 Best Pretty Ricky Songs, Ranked
Key Takeaways Pretty Ricky is marking 20 years in the game by facing off against B2K in a VERZUZ event where fans will vote on the winner round by round. Miami quartet Pretty Ricky—Spectacular Smith, Diamond “Baby Blue” Smith, Corey “Slick 'Em” Mathis, and Marcus “Pleasure P” Cooper—emerged in the mid-2000s as a raunchy, rap-heavy answer to squeaky clean boy bands.
From B2K to Pretty Ricky: How ‘106 & Park’ Birthed a New Era of Boy Bands
BET’s 106 & Park wasn’t just after-school programming to rival MTV’s TRL. Itwasn’t just the house that A.J. and Free built. Created by executive Stephen G. Hill, 106 & Park was a cultural phenomenon that became the standard for rising stars and Hollywood veterans to reach a new generation. The show, which counted down the 10 hottest hip-hop and R&B music videos of the day—voted by the viewers—debuted on September 11, 2000 with hosts A.J. Calloway and Marie “Free” Wright.
NEXT: There’s More To kwn Than Meets The Eye Original
The least interesting part about kwn (pronounced kay-one) is who she’s talking through it. With all due respect, this blossoming London-bred R&B sensation is so much more nuanced than what’s been rumored. Influenced by the likes of Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Jodeci, and Dru Hill, kwn burst onto the scene in 2022 with her debut single, “wn way or another.” It wasn’t until 2024 that she hit her stride with her single, “eyes wide open.” Now, she’s in high demand.
NEXT: There’s Nothing Durand Bernarr Can’t (And Won’t) Do Original
“Not for nothing, I do say [if] you take your eyes off me for two seconds, you miss a lot,” quipped jaunty crooner Durand Bernarr. He didn’t become this multifaceted artist and walking meme by happenstance or whimsy.
How ‘Is God Is’ Became Moses Sumney’s Scoring Debut Original
Moses Sumney had never been “terribly interested” in being a film composer. But when he read the script for Aleshea Harris’ directorial debut, Is God Is, it blew him away. So much so that he had to say yes to Amazon-MGM Studios’ offer to score it. “I thought the script was really wonderful and it was cool to read such an original voice jump off the page […] In the end, it actually felt like a lot of friends and mutual friends sort of coming together to do something great,” he explained to VIBE.
How ‘Is God Is’ Became Moses Sumney’s Scoring Debut Original
Moses Sumney had never been “terribly interested” in being a film composer. But when he read the script for Aleshea Harris’ directorial debut, Is God Is, it blew him away. So much so that he had to say yes to Amazon-MGM Studios’ offer to score t. “I thought the script was really wonderful and it was cool to read such an original voice jump off the page […] In the end, it actually felt like a lot of friends and mutual friends sort of coming together to do something great,” he explained to VIBE.
Dream Setlist: Chris Brown & Usher’s R&B Tour
Following popular demand and vast speculation, Usher and Chris Brown have finally announced their joint tour, aptly named The R&B (Raymond & Brown) Tour. From June until December 2026, the crooners’ Live Nation-produced trek will span 33 dates across the U.S., stopping in major cities including Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami, and Houston.
“…To Luther Vandross” And Other R&B Highlights From The 2026 Grammys
R&B won. Tonight (for once), the Grammys didn’t disappoint— at least when it came to R&B. I’m personally immune to the Recording Academy’s “standard” of airing the R&B categories during the Premiere Ceremony. Is it wrong? Yes. Should they air at least one R&B category during the live telecast? Hell yes. Despite R&B being routinely disrespected, seeing Leon Thomas, Kehlani, and Durand Bernarr take home their first* wins was the real reward.
Jon B Celebrates 30 Year Legacy With Acoustic Medley Original
Jon B is still just as cool relaxed as ever. The crooner celebrates 30 years of his debut album with VIBE and a V Sessions medley. Considering he’s such a consummate professional, it’s not surprising that he shot his performance in one take. From being under Babyface’s guidance to now mentoring rising stars, Jon B remains one of the most prolific and mesmerizing artists of all time. “They Don’t Know” remained on ice this go ‘round, but “Don’t Talk” kicked things into high gear.
Honoring D’Angelo: 13 Artists To Pay Tribute To The Late Crooner
D’Angelo was part of the pantheon of Black musical geniuses. Just ask anyone who had the honor of knowing him personally. His tragic and somewhat sudden death hit hard. Artists and fans were equally distraught. They flooded social media with heartfelt sentiments about what D’Angelo meant to them, how his artistry impacted their lives, and the indelible ways in which his music set a standard and became the blueprint for so many. Another conversation that began to surface was a tribute performance.
20 Of The Best (And Most Random) TV/Film Guest Appearances By A Musical Artist
The golden era of TV and film partially gained its descriptor because of the surprise musical guests that appeared on your favorite sitcom. Typically, we’d see an artist at their peak become an even bigger household name when they popped on the silver screen. From Lena Horne and Tupac on A Different World to Tevin Campbell on The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air and the Notorious B.I.G. on Martin, the list of musical guest appearances that live rent-free in our minds is a lengthy one.
Otis Redding’s Daughter And Grandson Reflect On His “Magnitude” And Lasting Impact Original
VIBE Lineage is an interview series with the heirs of Black excellence. Now that their legendary predecessors have gained high regards in their own right, these younger kin are blazing their own trails. Otis Redding is considered to be one of the greatest and most influential R&B singers to ever exist.
Then And Now: Marques Houston Details How A Sitcom Past Led To His Tubi Takeover Original
“I mean, if you ain’t doing it for Lil’ Saint, are you really doing it? You know what I’m saying?,” Marques Houston quips when reflecting on his stacked TV/film résumé. For VIBE’s Then And Now, the singer-actor looks back on the highlights from his storied past and details how he went from a quirky, next-door neighbor on a hit sitcom to dominating a streaming platform with his own production company. The child star made his formal on-screen debut in 1993 as Eli Black on A Different World.
You Asked, I Answered
For the past four years, I’ve worked my dream job. Following in the footsteps of Danyel Smith and Angie Martinez, being the authoritative voice on all things R&B, at the house that Quincy Jones built was the dream. However, in light of this recent merger, life will now look a little different. Though I don’t need to state the obvious, there is no blueprint for what happens after your life gets turned upside down like this. In the sea of nonstop notifications, I got asked, “So, what’s next?
12 Times Spinning The Block Succeeded (Even Temporarily)
There are pros and cons when it comes to spinning the block. On one hand, you and your ex could’ve been the result of “right person, wrong time.” So, after some personal growth and a nudge from the universe, rekindling an old flame could lead to a forever love. It could also end up being a complete waste of time. For some celebrity couples, time apart led them to now being blissfully in love. Just take Ashanti and Nelly, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, or Sterling K.
Jennifer Lopez Doesn't Believe Any Of Her Exes "Truly Loved" Her Original
Serial lover Jennifer Lopez was asked if she’d ever been truly loved, and the answer will shock you. “No,” she replied when asked by Howard Stern if she thinks she’s ever “truly been loved” during her recent appearance on The Howard Stern Show. Lopez did admit, however, that she has experienced truly loving someone else. The mother of two explained, “What I learned, it’s not that I’m not lovable — it’s that they’re not capable.
Teyana Taylor Finds Her Voice Again At Adam Blackstone’s Grammy Consideration Event
Adam Blackstone treated guests to a special evening with Teyana Taylor amidst 2026 Grammy considerations. Held at The Sun Rose in West Hollywood on Tuesday (Oct. 14), the conversation and intimate performance— her first since undergoing emergency vocal cord surgery in early August— was profound, comical, and utterly mesmerizing. “This is going to be a different type of legacy night,” Blackstone noted when things commenced.
Nia Long And Larenz Tate To Reunite In Untitled Netflix Romantic Drama
It may not be Love Jones 2, but Nia Long and Larenz Tate are set to reunite onscreen as the leads of a new untitled romantic drama for Netflix. Helmed by Sylvie’s Love writer-director, Eugene Ash, the new film is inspired by Maxwell’s debut album, Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite. However, further details including the logline are being kept under wraps, according to Deadline. The film is being written by Kay Oyegun, a writer-producer who’s best known for her work on NBC’s This Is Us. Maxwell and John D.
D’Angelo’s ‘Devil’s Pie’ Documentary: The Top 3 Takeaways
In 2019, D’Angelo allowed fans an intimate look into his life — the indelible highs and complicated lows — through the lens of his documentary, Devil’s Pie.
D’Angelo’s Daughter, Imani, Shares Touching Tribute Following Singer’s Death Original
D’Angelo’s death has rocked fans and fellow artists, but nobody is feeling the weight of this grief more than his children. His 26-year-old daughter, Imani Archer, penned a tribute to her father on Instagram, whom she desribed as her “biggest hype man, protector, biggest musical inspiration, the kindest and most selfless man,” and of course, “the best father anyone could’ve ever had.” The blossoming singer wrote, “Dear daddy, there are no words to describe this immeasurable loss.
Inside The Opening Night Of ‘André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever’ Exhibition Original
The late, incomparable André Leon Talley‘s style legacy is being honored by Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
Stephen A. Smith Feels Jasmine Crockett “Ain’t Stupid,” But Claims She’s “Engaging In Rhetoric For The Streets” Original
Following backlash stemming his heated sentiments about Rep. Jasmine Crockett earlier this month, Stephen A. Smith is doubling down. On the latest episode of his show, Straight Shooter with Stephen A. Smith, the commentator addressed the backlash. “I have nothing but respect for [Crockett]. I just disagree on what she’s making headlines for because I think it’s counterproductive to the ultimate goal,” he explained.
D'Angelo, Angie Stone's Son Breaks Silence, Addresses False Statement Original
Following the tragic news of D’Angelo’s death, fans immediately extended prayers and condolences to his eldest son, Michael Archer II (also known under his stage name, SwayvoTwain), who has lost both of his parents within a few months of each other. With many scrambling for any information regarding the late crooner’s private cancer battle, a false statement surfaced that was supposedly from Archer. However, the 28-year-old artist took to Instagram denouncing the fraudulent claim.
D’Angelo, Pioneering R&B Crooner, Dead At 51 Original
D’Angelo, the neo-soul innovator, has died following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 51. The news was confirmed by his former manager, Kedar Massenberg, and the singer’s family.
Rod Wave Countersues Following The $27 Million Grizzly Touring Lawsuit Original
Rod Wave is countersuing the promoter, Grizzly Touring, claiming that their previously filed $27 million lawsuit is an attempt to keep him obligated to work with them despite scheduling and production issues forcing him to cancel a large portion of his Last Lap tour. Grizzly, a joint venture between AG Entertainment, Mammoth Touring and CTS Eventim, filed their suit last month and Rod’s counterclaim is his “first response” to it, according to Billboard.
Jennifer Lopez Won't Be Having A "Romantic Reunion" With Ben Affleck Original
After divorcing Ben Affleck, it doesn’t seem like Jennifer Lopez is hoping to rekindle their former flame. Earlier this month at the New York City premiere of her new film, Kiss Of The Spider Woman, Affleck showed up to support his ex-wife. However, when rumors started to brew about a possible reunion, an insider told PEOPLE, “Jennifer’s doing well. She’s focused on things that make her happy — family and work.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett Reacts To Criticism From Stephen A. Smith Original
Following Stephen A. Smith‘s tirade against Jasmine Crockett and those alike, the U.S. Representative for Texas has reacted. She replied with a prayer hands emoji to rapper Willie D’s comments about Smith. “Stephen A. Smith taking shots at Jasmine Crockett ain’t just messy, it’s weak,” he stated in a repost shared on Crockett’s Instagram Stories.
Stevie Mackey Praises Jennifer Lopez’s ‘Kiss Of The Spider Woman’ Vocal Performance Original
There’s always been a running joke about Jennifer Lopez‘s singing ability since singers like Ashanti and Y’Anna Crawley can be credited for some of JLo’s biggest hits. However, her longtime friend/vocal coach Stevie Mackey is shutting down any naysayers with a snippet of Lopez rehearsing a number from the musical, Kiss Of The Spider Woman.
JayDon, India Shawn, Khalid, And More New R&B
This week in R&B puts the fun back in the genre as well as the emotions it soundtracks. From love and heartbreak to introspection and exploration, artists and fans alike are ready to get their groove on while feeling all their feels.
Who Is Gabrielle "Gigi" Alayah? An Explainer Of Kai Cenat's Girlfriend
Back in December, Kai Cenat officially revealed that he’s in a romantic relationship. The famed Twitch streamer surprised his fans with a special appearance from his girlfriend— influencer, Gabrielle “Gigi” Alayah. “I got a girlfriend, bi**h!” Kai playfully exclaimed to his chat during his 23rd birthday live celebration. Kai admitted that the romance “came out of nowhere,” but has brought him much happiness and peace. “I feel better when I wake up,” he gushed about his boo. “I glow a little bit more.
Supreme Court Sides With Katori Hall In ‘P-Valley’ Lawsuit, Nicci Gilbert Reacts To The Loss
P-Valley creator, Katori Hall, has won the copyright infringement lawsuit filed against her by singer Nicci Gilbert. On Monday (Oct. 6), the U.S. Supreme Court sided with Hall, effectively rejecting Gilbert’s appeal on the matter. In a statement shared the following day, Hall explained that U.S. District Judge Stephen V. Wilson had previously “ruled in 2023 that ‘P-Valley‘ is not substantially similar to” Gilbert’s Soul Kittens Cabaret.
Kai Cenat And Girlfriend, Gigi, Jokingly Go Undercover While Vacationing In Switzerland Original
Kai Cenat and his girlfriend, Gabrielle “Gigi” Alayah, are equally unserious. While vacationing in Switzerland during Zurich Fashion Week, they were interviewed and completely deceived the interviewer throughout the conversation. “Jamal,” 23, and “Mary,” 21, are “just two people in Switzerland tryna enjoy the environment.” They’re both apparently from Arkansas and are high school sweethearts who’ve been together for five years. Together, they make money as Forex traders.
Stephen A. Smith Calls Out Jasmine Crockett, Sparking Mixed Reactions Original
Stephen A. Smith has sparked mixed reactions after recently calling out Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett. On the latest episode of his podcast, Straight Shooter with Stephen A., Smith blasted the Democratic Party, specifically Crockett. “How a Jasmine Crockett chooses to express herself, I’m like ‘Is that gonna help your district in Texas?’ Aren’t you there to find a way to get stuff done as opposed to just being an impediment to what Trump wants?,” Smith declared.
Kehlani’s “Folded” Becomes GOATed: Remixes From Brandy, Toni Braxton, And More
Kehlani‘s “Folded” is predicted to be a strong contender in the R&B categories at the 2026 Grammys— and for good reason. The Khris Riddick-Tynes, Andre Harris, Donovan Knight, and Don Mills production has become the biggest hit of her career. Since its June 2025 release, it’s lived on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 16 weeks and recently peaked at No. 18, marking her first top 20 hit.
Kehlani Reacts To HBCU Band Performing "Folded" Original
Kehlani‘s “Folded” impact has reached HBCU campuses. The Jackson State University Marching Band, Sonic Boom of the South, performed their rendition of the R&B ballad at the 2025 W.C. Gorden Classic against Tuskegee back in mid-September. The singer became aware of the touching moment earlier this week and called the performance “incredible.” Fans equally gushed over the set. “I love being black! We gone eat in every aspect of life,” one person commented.
Mariah Carey’s ‘Here For It All’ Tops 4 Different Billboard Album Charts Original
Mariah Carey‘s 16th studio album, Here For It All, has debuted at No. 1 on four Billboard album charts: Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales, Top R&B Albums and Independent Albums. Here For It All is Carey’s first independently released project through her label, MARIAH under gamma. It also became her 19th top 10 LP on the Billboard 200, as it premiered at No. 7.
AI Tupac Video Called Out By Concerned Fans: “Disturbing And Disrespectful” Original
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has several pros and cons, but a newly-surfaced video of Tupac has fans ready to boycott the technology. In the video, the late rapper is shopping in Target with “fans” asking for a few pictures. “Y’all really gonna follow me through the lotion aisle, huh?” he says. Despite many still boycotting Target, most of the commenters were equally distressed.
Donald Trump Demands The FCC Investigate MSNBC Because Of Al Sharpton’s Show
Pres. Donald Trump is calling for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to investigate NBC/MSNBC because of Al Sharpton. In a recent tirade on Truth Social, Trump opened up about his past “relationship” with the 71-year-old civil rights activist. “I knew Al Sharpton for many years, not that it matters, but he was a major ‘TRUMP’ fan,” the President wrote.
Bronny James’ Mom And Girlfriend Pen Sweet Messages For His 21st Birthday Original
Bronny James is officially 21. The budding NBA star celebrated the milestone birthday on Monday (Oct. 6) and the most important women in his life— his mother and girlfriend— both issued heartfelt messages to him via Instagram. His mother, Savannah James, was first. “My first born baby is 21 today,” wrote the mother of 3. “This could have gone 1 of 2 ways….
Donald Trump Demands The FCC Investigate MSNBC Because Of Al Sharpton’s Show
Pres. Donald Trump is calling for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to investigate NBC/MSNBC because of Al Sharpton. In a recent tirade on Truth Social, Trump opened up about his past “relationship” with the 71-year-old civil rights activist. “I knew Al Sharpton for many years, not that it matters, but he was a major ‘TRUMP’ fan,” the President wrote.
Dorinda Clark-Cole, Yolanda Adams, Deitrick Haddon, And More Highlights From 2025 Praise In The Park Original
After a four-year hiatus, Praise In The Park — the proclaimed “signature concert” of radio station, Praise 102.5 — returned to the Wolf Creek Amphitheater in College Park, Georgia, on Saturday (Oct. 4). The nearly sold-out event, which is also described as the “Family Reunion of Believers,” was the premier gospel event as some of the genre’s biggest acts performed and welcomed God into the atmosphere.
Brooklyn Embraces Maxwell’s Silent Serenade Ensemble With Open Arms (And Rightfully So)
Maxwell not only redefined what it means to serenade, but also took his live performance to new heights. The crooner, accompanied by the vibrant songstress Yola and his Silent Serenade Ensemble, took over the Kings Theater in his hometown of Brooklyn, NY on Sunday (Sept. 28) to conclude the final installment of his reimagined performance series.
Ayesha Curry Faces Backlash After Admitting She Initially Didn’t Want Marriage Or Children Original
Before Ayesha Alexander became Ayesha Curry, she had no plans of becoming a wife and mother, she confessed during a now-viral interview. She appeared on the Call Her Daddy podcast back in August and opened up about her “life before [her] life.” The 36-year-old admitted, “I didn’t want kids. I didn’t want to get married. I thought I was gonna be a career girl and that’s it and then it happened so early in my life.
Suge Knight Reacts To Diddy’s Sentencing: “Anybody Else Woulda Been Cooked” Original
Suge Knight has broken his silence regarding Sean “Diddy” Combs’ 50-month sentencing. The incarcerated Death Row Records co-founder spoke with The Art Of Dialogue from prison following the ruling to discuss how he believes Diddy got lucky. “As far as Puffy is concerned, it’s a great day for him,” Knight began. “It’s an even better day for his family, you know? […] Overall, though, it’s not surprising. We do all know one thing: like I said before, Puffy has strong ties with the government.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Mya
Contact Mya, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack