BLAC Fridays: Can't C Me

Time for another BLAC Friday:

It's Friday, and it is good!

We've had an eventful week, from discussing the art of trash talking to Memphis in May, and even some moments that made us say, "Are you kidding me?" That's why this week's BLAC Friday playlist is as diverse and nuanced, designed to mirror the diversity and complexity of our community.

I used to believe that reaching the destination was all that mattered, but I now realize that the joy is in the journey. We only get one ride on this roller coaster called life, so let's make the most of it, my friends. Reach out to the people you love, let go of grudges, and extend grace. Doing so makes it easier to throw your hands up in the air and wave ‘em like you just don’t care on the drop.

We at BLAC see you. We wish you a fantastic weekend.

-Billy and the Team at BLAC

#TGIF VIBES

Click to listen to this week's playlist

THE MOMENT

Women’s Basketball and Double Standards

Trash talk IS part of playing sports. It's a skill all its own. It's an art form, really. It can be as simple as "good shot," or as complicated as a Black woman celebrating with the classic John Cena move. The University of Iowa's Caitlin Clark did the same move a week earlier, which was met with enthusiasm.

The double standard for women, especially Black women, in sports is nothing new, with both Serena Williams and the U.S. women's national soccer team being held to different standards. When LSU women's basketball team won their first-ever national title, star player Angel Reese was aware of this double standard and said, "This was for the girls that look like me, that's going to speak up on what they believe in." Go on girl. Congrats to LSU women's basketball team

CREATOR'S CORNER

Alexis Miché Inspires Through Various Art Forms

Memphis' Alexis Miché strives to bring light and positivity to the world and highlights the beauty of all things through her vibrant paintings, line drawings, and digital art. Alexis Miché, has accomplished so much. The multi-disciplinary creative has a keen eye for detail, an inspiring positive attitude, and sees the beauty in everything.

BEST OF THE REST

DETROIT x MEMPHIS

DETROIT

Detroit Renaissance Chess Team Wins National Chess Championship

The Detroit Renaissance High School Chess Team have just won the National Chess Championship for 2023! The team emerged victorious after competing against over 400 students at the K-12 Chess Nationals held in Washington, D.C.

The Dirty D. What?

What’s the best way to get a good dose of drama, sex, money and drugs in one show? “The Dirty D.” Produced by Lisa Brown, the show is a combination of money, sex, drugs, and drama, all set in the Detroit nightclub world of a shady power couple. With its cast of complex characters, the show is certainly captivating audiences. Now streaming on Tubi.

KEM: A Journey of Love, Faith, and Redemption

Grammy-nominated R&B superstar and Detroit’s KEM is set to release both his debut memoir and his first live album, showcasing his incredible journey and undeniable talent.

MEMPHIS

Memphis In May 2023: A Celebration Of Food, Culture And Music

The Memphis in May annual festival brings out the best of Memphis’ culture, food, music, and history. The entire month is packed with events that show off the unique vibe that Memphis is known for. What you need to know.

Midtown Memphis’ MBabazi Seamlessly Blending African Heritage With Modern Fashion

In the vibrant world of African fashion, one business stands out for its dedication to empowering local artisans and preserving traditional designs. Mbabazi (House of Style), a Fair Trade enterprise, is transforming the industry by seamlessly blending African heritage with modern fashion, while providing a fair livelihood for its dedicated employees.

Six Best Black Nail Techs in Memphis

It’s no secret that creativity and Black magic go hand-in-hand; so here's our list of the six best nail techs in Memphis proper.

COFFEE BREAK

A Black Lady Sketch Show: Courtroom Kiki

Black Girl Magic from the hit show A Black Lady Sketch show on HBO. Enjoy!

DISCOVER

??? Kids Over Guns…Tennessee Lawmaker Justin Jones Calls Out Other House Members During Expulsion Trial: 'An Admitted Child Molester Sat In This Chamber'

?? WATCH: Trina On NPR’s ‘Tiny Desk’…The Miami Native Delivers An Unforgettable Performance as well as an emotional tribute to her late mother.

?? Three the Hard Way: Fascism American-Style…Florida, Texas, and Mississippi are displaying fascism, which is a potential precursor for nationwide strategies to destroy whatever little bit of democracy the United States has left.

??We Got Style Yes We Do…Fashion expert reflects on how Black designers, models and musicians have influenced the way the world sees and wears clothing

BLAC WALL STREET

Black-Owned Publicly Traded Companies

COOKING WITH BLAC

Afro-Caribbean Recipes

If you’re looking for recipes to cook up a storm this weekend, look no further. Afro-Caribbean recipes are a great way to bring the flavors of the Caribbean into your kitchen. We’ve got you covered with two recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family!