Hey everyone! Welcome aboard. There are a couple of topics I’m eager to dive into today, starting with Ari Lennox. For those who might not be familiar, Ari Lennox is an incredibly talented R&B singer signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville label. This year, she dropped a stellar R&B soul album titled “Shea Butter Baby,” which I absolutely vibed with. She even scored three nominations at the Soul Train Awards! Though she didn’t take home any trophies, being nominated for Best R&B Soul Female Artist, Best Collaboration Performance, and Album/Mixtape of the Year was a huge deal. It’s worth noting that despite her genuine soulful sound, Lizzo snagged the Album of the Year award, which raised some eyebrows given her more eclectic mix of genres. Ari didn’t shy away from expressing her disappointment, taking to Twitter to share her thoughts. She made it clear that her frustration stemmed from a place of passion for authentic soul music and respect for the legacy of Soul Train. While she acknowledged feeling snubbed, she also emphasized that her intention was never to throw shade at her fellow nominees.
I’m deeply wounded, and I don’t anticipate heartless critics comprehending that. Each time I try to come to terms with it, I find myself unable to fully embrace it. It’s akin to experiencing a breakup. My latest album was an expression of my soul. I never shied away from my true self. I simply hoped that one platform would acknowledge the immense effort behind these creations. Ultimately, this setback has been profoundly difficult for me. My honesty doesn’t diminish my grace or my worthiness as a star. To all those frustrated with me, I hear you. I won’t let this consume me. Preserving my sanity comes first. I’m tired of feeling irritated. I just don’t fit the mold like others do. This isn’t my scene. It’s evident I don’t fit the cool or trendy image, and I have no desire to. I’m not striving for that. I won’t pursue this charade again. No more pretense on my part. It’s not just about the awards. “Shea Butter Baby” was overlooked in so many ways. I’m too emotional to pretend I can navigate this game. For those suggesting I’m new to this, no, I’ve been hustling since 2009. There’s been so much chaos leading up to this point. I’m not compromising my integrity, so I’m stepping away. To the insincere fans, please unfollow. I’m not acting entitled; I’m hurting. There are deeper sentiments I wish I could express, but I simply can’t. It’s not entitlement; it’s blatant disrespect. Now, Ari Lennox did express quite a bit there, and I must partially agree with her. I empathize with her perspective because black R&B artists often don’t receive recognition beyond the Soul Train Awards. It’s puzzling to see some disregard the Soul Train Awards as insignificant. In reality, it’s one of the few shows that truly celebrates genuine singers, authentic talent, and real R&B artists.
You won’t easily stumble upon another award show that honors R&B artists quite like the Soul Train Awards. So, when people downplay its significance, it’s really missing the mark. The Soul Train Awards hold considerable weight, especially for artists like Ari Lennox, who may not receive the recognition they truly deserve elsewhere. For Ari, this platform likely means a great deal, offering validation for her album “Shea Butter Baby.”
Yet, the journey to recognition isn’t the same for everyone. Take Lizzo, for example. She’s tirelessly toiled for years before earning her current acclaim. Ari Lennox shares this struggle, pouring her heart and soul into her craft. While she’s seen some success, it’s clear she must persist. It’s an uneven playing field out there; some artists languish in obscurity despite their talent.
Still, these artists press on because of their love for the music. It’s a tough reality to face, knowing your efforts might not be acknowledged. But it’s a common plight, unfortunately. Fortunately, Ari Lennox is gaining traction in certain circles, a testament to her perseverance. With continued dedication, she’ll undoubtedly receive the accolades she deserves.
Now, shifting gears to Ray J and his wife, Princess Love. Despite attending the Soul Train Awards as a family, Ray J left his pregnant wife and daughter stranded—a move that didn’t sit well with Princess. Venting her frustration on Instagram, she called him out for his actions, sparking some unexpected backlash.
People questioned why she couldn’t fly home on her own, prompting her to respond sharply, “Yes, I could fly home. I have the means. But my car is here, and I’m hesitant to drive back solo with my daughter, especially since I’m over 8 months pregnant. With all the concerns about human trafficking, I’d rather not risk stopping for gas or potentially going into labor en route.” It’s understandable why Princess felt aggrieved; a real man doesn’t leave his pregnant wife and child in another city. While the full story remains unknown, there may have been an argument, given Princess Love and Ray J’s history of conflicts. Regardless, Ray J should have exercised better judgment. Brandy, please intervene with your brother.
Moving on to Omarion, he recently addressed the situation involving his ex, April Jones, and his former friend and group member, Lil Fizz. Their relationship stirred controversy as many perceived it as a betrayal. Fizz violated the bro code by dating Omarion’s ex, and April complicated matters by getting involved with a close associate. Despite their attempts to rationalize their actions, Omarion chose to remain silent until his recent interview on VladTV.
When asked about April and Fizz’s relationship, Omarion responded, “I don’t have any feelings about it. If they’re happy, then they should be happy.” However, he acknowledged the impact on his children, stating, “She’s still the mother of my children, so her actions affect them, and by extension, affect me.” Although he encouraged them to pursue their happiness, he emphasized the need to alter the narrative, distancing himself from their situation.
Regarding Fizz’s claim of having a “working relationship,” Omarion clarified, “There’s no relationship, just a professional one. That’s life. If they’re not friends, they’re not friends.” He concluded with a philosophical remark, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”
“If you’re willing to abandon your family and disregard our friendship, why should we waste our time considering your feelings? We don’t owe you that courtesy because we’re not friends. If you’re choosing Mariana over us, then fine, do what you want. We’re moving on, getting closer. ‘Well, Fizz mentioned that you two only have a professional relationship. Is that accurate?’ ‘I suppose. Yeah, that’s about right.’ Translation: ‘That’s right.’ It’s clear: Omarion and Fizz were friends once, but Fizz’s involvement with Omarion’s ex changed things. Now, Omarion sees him as just a colleague. So, Omarion’s response is, ‘I’m just a colleague now? Fine, I’ll play that role.’ And you know what? Colleagues can choose not to work together. Omarion has decided he’ll go on tour without his colleagues. Yes, he’s expressed interest in another Millennium Tour in 2020, and it seems he might do it solo, without his B2K bandmates. One of them, J-Boog, expressed surprise at Omarion’s announcement of a tour without them. ‘I just don’t want you all to be misled. I used to be the face of the Millennium Tour. B2K might not be coming back.’ Fizz’s actions caused a rift. Well, maybe not everything, but close to it. Omarion is done with both of you. He’s upset with Fizz for getting involved with his ex, and he might be done with you, J-Boog, if rumors about you and Omarion’s mother are true. We can’t confirm those rumors, but if they are, it’s understandable why Omarion wants nothing to do with B2K anymore. Omarion has moved on from B2K, and he’s pursuing his own success. And honestly, who can blame him? Anyway, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching, and until next time, take care! Goodbye!”