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Jason Collins PENS Open Letter On Becoming The First Openly Gay Professional American Athlete

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On the cover of the latest issue of Sports Illustrated, debuting May 6, NBA Center Jason Collins pens an emotional open letter where he announces himself to the world as "…the first openly gay athlete."  Read the letter inside…

 

The first few months of 2013 have definitely been interesting as far as sexuality and disclosure are concerned, as we’ve watched several high profile situations play out on social media…starring African American men.  While we watched Magic Johnson’s son EJ openly embrace being "outed" by the media, we’ve also seen the flipside as NFL free agent Kerry Rhodes refuted his "outing" despite a growing amount of "evidence" to suggest the contrary.  And we’ve also seen Sen. Kelvin Atkinson of Nevada come "out" during "gay marriage" talks on the floor of the state senate.  Now…enter Washington Wizards baller James Collins. 

Everyone was tipped of during the midst of the EJ vs. Kerry "outings" that there would be at least four professional athletes coming out over the next few months and surprise surprise…..it’s a "brother" leading the way.

It’s only fitting that at the opening of his emotional letter to SI, James, who’s now a free agent in the NBA, addresses himself first as an athlete, then by his race, and lastly…by his sexual preference.  And here in America…you already know which category will be his "lead" for the rest of his life….and he’s fine with that. 

In his letter, readers unfamiliar with James will learn a lot about his life, including that he has a twin brother Jarron (who also played in the NBA) and random fact– actor Jason Segal was his backup during their high school days at Harvard-Westlake in Cali

But what’s most interesting is how the Boston Marathon bombing played a role in his decision to live his truth.

He wrote in Sports Illustrated:

 

I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.

I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation. I wish I wasn’t the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, "I’m different." If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I’m raising my hand.

My journey of self-discovery and self-acknowledgement began in my hometown of Los Angeles and has taken me through two state high school championships, the NCAA Final Four and the Elite Eight, and nine playoffs in 12 NBA seasons.

I’ve played for six pro teams and have appeared in two NBA Finals. Ever heard of a parlor game called Three Degrees of Jason Collins? If you’re in the league, and I haven’t been your teammate, I surely have been one of your teammates’ teammates. Or one of your teammates’ teammates’ teammates.

Now I’m a free agent, literally and figuratively. I’ve reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want is to continue to play basketball. I still love the game, and I still have something to offer. My coaches and teammates recognize that. At the same time, I want to be genuine and authentic and truthful.

Why am I coming out now? Well, I started thinking about this in 2011 during the NBA player lockout. I’m a creature of routine. When the regular season ends I immediately dedicate myself to getting game ready for the opener of the next campaign in the fall. But the lockout wreaked havoc on my habits and forced me to confront who I really am and what I really want. With the season delayed, I trained and worked out. But I lacked the distraction that basketball had always provided.

The first relative I came out to was my aunt Teri, a superior court judge in San Francisco. Her reaction surprised me. "I’ve known you were gay for years," she said. From that moment on I was comfortable in my own skin. In her presence I ignored my censor button for the first time. She gave me support. The relief I felt was a sweet release. Imagine you’re in the oven, baking. Some of us know and accept our sexuality right away and some need more time to cook. I should know — I baked for 33 years.

When I was younger I dated women. I even got engaged. I thought I had to live a certain way. I thought I needed to marry a woman and raise kids with her. I kept telling myself the sky was red, but I always knew it was blue.

I realized I needed to go public when Joe Kennedy, my old roommate at Stanford and now a Massachusetts congressman, told me he had just marched in Boston’s 2012 Gay Pride Parade. I’m seldom jealous of others, but hearing what Joe had done filled me with envy. I was proud of him for participating but angry that as a closeted gay man I couldn’t even cheer my straight friend on as a spectator. If I’d been questioned, I would have concocted half truths. What a shame to have to lie at a celebration of pride. I want to do the right thing and not hide anymore. I want to march for tolerance, acceptance and understanding. I want to take a stand and say, "Me, too."

 

The NBA Commissioner David Stern and others have already written statements of support.  NBA champ Kobe Bryant tweeted today:

Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU

Read the full letter here.  Congrats to Jason on not being afraid to be HIM. 

,

Original Post Source – http://www.theybf.com/

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Music

Chasing Dreams with MCVEE: Unpacking ‘I Gotta Get It’

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Released on December 17, 2023, the latest single “I Gotta Get It” from Winston-Salem’s very own MCVEE stands out as a compelling narrative of grit and perseverance. Produced by Freddie Crookz and engineered by Dreez, the track resonates with the raw energy and ambition that mirrors the bustling life of its urban backdrop.

The heart of “I Gotta Get It” lies in its authentic reflection of the struggles faced by many who aim to carve a niche for themselves in a harsh, competitive world. MCVEE’s lyrics delve deep into themes of hustling and working relentlessly. He paints a vivid picture of the daily grind, overcoming obstacles, and the burning desire to succeed against all odds. This song isn’t just music—it’s a rallying cry for those fighting to make a name for themselves, to make a better life beyond the confines of their beginnings.

MCVEE’s storytelling is poignant—each verse encapsulates the essence of striving for a dream while tethered to the gritty realities of an unforgiving environment. His music does more than entertain; it inspires and connects with listeners who see their own battles reflected in his words.

“I Gotta Get It” is more than a song. It’s an experience, a journey of someone refusing to be defined by their circumstances but instead, defining their path with unwavering ambition and relentless effort. It’s a testament to the spirit of a generation that refuses to settle, aiming not just to rise but to soar globally.

For those from Winston-Salem and similar locales, MCVEE’s voice rings particularly true. It’s a voice for the unseen, the unheard, and the undeterred. This track is an invitation to join him on a quest not just for success, but for significance—on a stage as vast as the world itself.

FOLLOW MCVEE ON INSTAGRAM

STREAM THE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE HERE- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WB2vcRlzdPk

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Tupac’s “Dear Mama” Gets A Country Twist For Mother’s Day With A Tribute By @ItsRvshvd

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RVSHVD, the South Georgia singer-songwriter, is set to release his rendition of Tupac Shakur‘s iconic Dear Mama just in time for Mother’s Day. This heartfelt homage to one of hip-hop’s most beloved tracks pays tribute not only to Tupac, but also to RVSHVD’s own mother and the countless hardworking parents who sacrifice for their children. This deeply personal connection infuses RVSHVD’s rendition with authenticity and emotion, promising a moving listening experience for fans old and new. RVSHVD’s musical journey from hip-hop to country reflects his evolution as an artist seeking to express his truth. In RVSHVD’s own words:

Tupac was a major influence in my life growing up. His music and message has reached millions and will continue to do so. ‘Dear Mama’ has a special message that many who grew up with a parent that worked tirelessly for their child can connect to, myself include.

Inspired by Keith Urban‘s Sweet Thing, he found a sense of belonging in country music, where he could speak honestly about his experiences and emotions. His unique blend of hip-hop and country garnered attention with his version of Roddy Ricch‘s Ballin, amassing millions of streams and establishing him as a rising star in the industry. Recognized as Country Rookie of the Month by Billboard and featured as an Artist To Watch 2024 by CMT, RVSHVD continues to captivate audiences with his genre-bending sound and genuine storytelling. With upcoming live dates including a West Coast run, CMA Fest, Nashville Block Party, and London Long Road Festival, RVSHVD’s star is on the rise, promising an exciting journey ahead for fans worldwide. Experience RVSHVD’s heartfelt tribute to Tupac and celebrate the enduring love of mothers everywhere with “Dear Mama” below. Follow RVSHVD on Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, TikTok, X, and YouTube. Stream your own company here.

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Interview

From Local to Global: Ace K’s Plans for World Domination

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In the ever-evolving landscape of music, authenticity remains the cornerstone of a resonating brand. The dynamic conversation between Ace K and Shah Cypha on On The Grynd Live serves as a testament to the importance of genuine connection with one’s roots, audience, and creative process. While navigating through the intricacies of the music business, Ace K emphasizes the significance of staying true to oneself, prepping meticulously for studio sessions, and the emotional gravity of having one’s music impact listeners. Drawing from the conversational gems and experiences shared, this article extrapolates the broader implications of the themes discussed, underlining their relevance to aspiring artists and veterans alike in the music domain.

The Evolution of An Artist: Adapting to Change While Staying True

The trajectory of Ace K’s musical career illustrates a journey marked by continuous learning and adaptation. From mastering his first 808 to exploring diverse genres, Ace K exemplifies an artist’s ability to grow while maintaining their core identity. It’s about “manipulating \[experiences] to the point where \[they] can write about them.” The gradual shift from analog to digital platforms and the evolution of music styles throughout his career is a testament to his resilience and versatility as an artist.

“It’s miles ahead and miles away from each other, but it still is the same basic anatomy, shall I say, where people

Crafting a Timeless Sound

In discussing the significance of cultivating a timeless sound, Ace K touches on the crucial element of cadence and the anatomy of music. It’s not about following the trends but about creating a “vibe” that transcends them:

“Music is a feeling, my guys. So if you make something that make people feel good, make feel sad, what not, what not. I mean, you gonna be successful.”

This perspective pushes artists to look beyond the surface-level metrics of success and delve into the emotional resonance of their work—a principle that ensures longevity in a fast-paced industry.

The Emotional Impact of Music: Bridging Generations and Cultures

Ace K’s narrative underscores music as an emotional catalyst capable of cutting across generational lines. When a fan shares that his grandfather connected with Ace K’s track “slacking,” it reveals the profound nature of music’s reach.

“He said, ace k, I want to let you know that my granddad loves your song. And he plays that. He told. He said, but how do you put it? He got on my nerves with your song, but I love it because he’s understanding our culture.”

Music, as portrayed by Ace K, is an intergenerational language, uniting listeners and creating common ground even where least expected. The universal appeal of Ace K’s music not only supports the brand’s growth but becomes a catalyst for broader acceptance and understanding within diverse audiences.

Cultivating Cultural Synergy

In a cultural landscape seeking connection, artists who speak to varying experiences enable the bridging of gaps. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, musicians have the power to create a cultural synergy that enriches both their personal brand and the communities they touch. Ace K’s experience is an embodiment of such a phenomenon.

Harnessing a Personal Brand: Importance of Pre-Studio Preparation and Self-Value

Ace K sheds light on the pragmatic aspects of building a successful music career: meticulous preparation prior to studio sessions and a firm grasp of one’s market worth. He advises fellow artists to “make sure all my lyrics is right” before even setting foot in the studio—a discipline that minimizes wasted time and resources. Additionally, understanding one’s value is a sentiment Ace K passionately shares, as he refuses to sign with “no bull stuff company” underscoring the power of a marketable brand.

“Market each song like it. Your last song… Put your all into everything.”

Armed with this dual emphasis on preparation and self-worth, Ace K’s approach to the music business stands as a blueprint for artists striving to carve their own niche in the industry.

The Business of Music Personified

The business of music extends beyond the creation of melodies and lyrics; it’s also about presentation, perception, and the strategic maneuvering of one’s brand in a saturated market. Ace K’s philosophy highlights the importance of being both the face and the foundation of one’s business, ensuring credibility and appeal to potential audiences.

In the midst of a landscape where content is prolific, and attention spans are fleeting, Ace K champions the significance of leaving a mark, whether it be through emotive music or carefully curated branding. His experiences and insights contribute to an evolving doctrine for artists in any stage of their journey, advocating for integrity, preparation, and self-awareness. By adhering to these tenets, one not only fosters a promising career but creates a life’s work that resonates with authenticity and purpose

Stream Ace K’s Latest record titled W.A.Y.N.E now which is available on all digital platforms

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