Well what do we have here?  Rihanna was spotted leaving Supperclub in L.A. last night for Diddy's big party.  And not only was she partying with her boyfriend Chris Brown...it appears she may have been partying with a white powdery substance as well...

What's the powdery stain on your Hommes sweatshirt Rih Rih? 

Last month, Rihanna was called out for having white powder all over her outfit while leaving the club with Breezy.  We gave it the benefit of the doubt.  Then, Rih posted a pic on her birthday recently of her assistant Jen holding up a small baggie of white powder (that some claim is a napkin) and saying that she knows how to have fun.  Hmmmm.

Now, pics from Rih's night out with her boo last night show more white powder covering her sweatshirt.  We're not calling her a cocaine chick or anything, but we're just saying....

She and Chris were spotted cuddled up in the club all night.  And when they left, Chris was wearing no shirt with his boxers on full display. 

Rihanna's been looking extra slim these days, which could just be due to all this tour rehearsal. Or because of something else. Who knows.

Meanwhile, tonight's episode of "Law & Order: SVU" has been much talked about.  And it's all because the show, who usually rips from the headlines for their storylines, seems to be basing this episode off the Chris Brown & Rihanna domestic violence situation from 2009.  Here's the promo:

Pics: Splash/Twitter

Trends may come and go but hairstylist Johnny Wright is one hairstylist who is creating “looks” that will go down in the history books. And while we continue our BLACKS MAKING HISTORY campaign to showcase YBF people who are making black history every day, come inside and meet the man behind the bang(s) heard 'round the world….

Image is everything, especially when you're the most watched woman in the world on an everyday basis.  So the person responsible for the visual aspect of that image--Johnny Wright--is, in turn, making history every single day.

It was the bang heard around the world--literally--as First Lady Michelle Obama stepped out on the arm of her husband, President Barack Obama, during the 2013 Inaugural swearing-in-ceremony after first debuting her new hair on her new Twitter account.

Though electing the nation’s first Black president to a second term was a truly historical moment, what really grabbed headlines around the world were the First Lady’s bangs, which she later described on "Rachel Ray" as her own version of a "midlife crisis."   And those world famous bangs--as well as every emulated hairstyle FLOTUS has rocked since she stepped foot into the White House--were the master craft of Chicago-born hairstylist Johnny Wright. 

During an exclusive chat with TheYBF.com, Johnny, who serves as the "First Hairstylist" to the First Lady and the artistic director of SoftSheen-Carson, spoke to us about the contribution he is making to the nation and how he’s carving his place in history.  And when it came to those bangs, he said,

"It was a collaborative effort. The First Lady said she wanted to do something different. But we didn't think it would make that big of an impression! Some people loved it and some people hated it and that's what's great about it."

So one might ask, how does a hairstylist give back to the nation? Johnny told us,

“A first impression is everything...and a lot times, that has to do with your appearance. I always tell people that a woman's hair is the first thing you "hear" before she speaks. It tells you a lot about her personality…without her saying a word.”

And Johnny has been helping The First Lady make great first impressions all over the world since they first began working together during her first appearance in ESSENCE Magazine (when President Obama was a relatively unknown senator).

From that editorial shoot, he fostered a working relationship with Mrs. Obama and her staff that continued with her appearance on the cover of O Magazine, her much-celebrated VOGUE cover and appearance at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.

“It's very challenging to work with the first lady. She has an extremely busy schedule and we do travel very often. And with all of the work she does, I think its very important for her to look good. It is my contribution to America. I'm a part of making her fell good and making her feel comfortable. And all of that has impact how she does her job."

Before his journey to the White House, Johnny was introduced to the hair care industry by his grandmother who ran several hair salons in the Chicago area. And we all know the best way to learn ANYTHING...is from mom and grandma. 

At the age of 12, his mother served as his first client after she agreed to let him give her a French roll. From there, he says he styled over a 100 clients that year.  And back then, you could have your hair done by Mr. Johnny Wright for $15! He’s come a long way since then, mainly because of the business acumen his father taught him about the value of his time and understanding his self-worth.  

Johnny also worked at the Frederick Fekkai Salon on Melrose Place in West Hollywood and has done the hair of former Turks and Caicos First Lady LisaRaye McCoy-Misick.

When asked about the challenges that come with his profession, such as creating editorials and inventing new looks, he told us,"Those things that would seem like challenges are lot of fun to me because they are creative and thought provoking. And those things make you grow as a person and a hairstylist."

But what Johnny says he values most are the friendships he's formed with his clients and what he's learned along the way through their relationships. 

"What I love about doing hair is the connection I have with my clients. So many stories and so many personal things have been shared with me that have allowed me to grow into the man I am today."

And we're honored Mr. Wright shared his story with us with his effervescent personality.  Loves it.

And for ladies hoping to achieve the Johnny Wright effect, he recommends products from the Softsheen-Carson line in the video below.

Follow Johnny on Twitter @johnny_wright. 

In case you missed it, check out our Sam Fine exclusive as part of YBF's campaign--BLACKS MAKING HISTORY.

Photos via Johnny Wright

It's been a long time coming and Zoe Saldana is now speaking out to naysayers about her decision to take on the role of Nina Simone in an upcoming biopic.  Check out what she had to say inside....

There have been many outspoken ciritcs and fans who have criticized the casting of Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone in an upcoming movie about the late singer's life.  One of the most vocal critics was Nina Simone's daughter, Simone, who revealed that she had been completely shut out of the movie and had no involvment at all.  

During an inteview with Hip Hollywood, Zoe spoke her piece about the criticism saying, 

”What kept me from getting stressed and being hurt by the negative comments is that I’m doing it for my sisters and my brothers and I don’t care who tells me I’m not this or I’m not that. I know who I am and I know what Nina Simone means to me.”

“I did it all for love. Out of love for Nina, my people and who I am and my pride of being a Black woman and a Latina woman and an American woman. That’s my truth.”

It sure seems like Zoe is COMMITED to playing the role and that's all you can ask of an actress.  Maybe she will blow audiences away.  However, we still feel some kind of way about her playing the role in what some could call "black face" (pictured above on the set). 

Watch the interview here:

Stars of the reality show "Black Mafia Wives" recently did a photo shoot in LA and have shared video from behind the scenes.  Watch the video inside and get the status on the show....

Around this time last year, we told you that several chicks who were aligned or formerly aligned with the Black Mafia drug cartel of Detroit were linking up to launch their own reality show called"Black Mafia Wives."  Almost immediately, Big Meech (the former drug king pin) whom Rick Ross helped turn into a household name, took to Twitter (via his momma's account) and blasted the show saying that NONE of these ladies were affiliated with the BMF. Despite his claims, that didn't seem to stop the ladies and their hustle.

Though talk about the show had quieted down, the ladies recently posted a video of a photo shoot they completed in LA which would make one assume the show is going to hit the air waves soon.  Now, we've learned over the years that ANYONE can book a photoshoot AND/OR film a reality TV show....it doesn't mean that it will ever hit the air.  And since we can't find an airdate or any network/cable affiliation with the "BMF Wives," they're possibly just trying to drum up interest in the show.

And since"Starter Wives Confidential" and "All My Babies Mamas" all failed....we know there are a few cable slots that need to be filled.  We know the ladies hope that someone from TLC, Oxygen or VH1 will pick up on this Youtube post.  We'll keep you posted... 

Watch the BTS video of their promo shoot here:

Any interest?

Reginae Carter just made her Young Money contract official.  Check out what the star in the making posted last night from her pop Lil Wayne, plus other celebuspawns like Deyjah Harris & Zoe Kravitz nabbing their own ish...

Lil Wayne's oldest kiddie Reginae (pictured above out and about this week with her mom Toya Wright) has been talking about a singing career, fashion career and literary career on her Instagram for a while now.  Reports came out a few weeks ago that 'Nae landed a book deal with Cash Money Content.  Now, she's posted a message from her CEO dad saying he just finalized her (and her bestie LoLo's) contract as the newest signees of Young Money:

She said: "Yaaaassssss The happiest day of my lifeeeee...They ain't ready suhh"

Who says nepotism only exists in the corporate world?  The cutie teen, who is also a cheerleader at her school, left the OMG Girlz a few years ago as her mom wanted her to focus more on her school work.  I guess it's all good now, because she's got her won deal on a big label.  And she's already helping design the YMCMB Princess fashion line for girls.  Must be nice...

Lenny Kravitz & Lisa Bonet's daughter, Zoe Kravitz, is launching her own jewelry line for Swarovski Crystallized.  The 23-year-old actress, who was spotted above arriving at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood late kast night, will be creating a 9-piece collection of bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings incorporating her birthstones, turquoise and tanzanite, and other Swarovski Elements.  And it will all be inspired by her travels.

Zoe told WWD:

''I wanted it to feel organic and fun. Something that would allow each person to make it their own.  I was inspired by places I want to travel such as India and Morocco. Those countries have such vivid landscapes so I wanted to pull in colour from there.''

The line will range from $94-$194 and will hit Swarovski Crystallized stores in New York, London & Austria, as well as on their website.

And finally, rapper T.I.'s youngest daughter, Deyjah, is moving forward with her own sitcom.  Back in December, it was first reported that the youngin, who often appears on her dad's VH1 reality show "TI & Tiny: A Family Hustle", landed a new Atlanta-based sitcom called "All For MyLove."  It also stars Oprah's Goddaughter, Hannah Cartwright.

The show is about a coming of age story about a girl, named MyLove (don't ask), who is trying to make it in the industry.  Deyjah will play troubled teen Yasmin, while Hannah will play Chelsea, MyLove's best friend.

And today, an open casting call wa announced to fill other roles of the show.  Here's the synopsis:

Mylove, leaves the UK to live with her brother after her father dies. Mylove’s brother Quentin is a music manager and has accomplished many successes for his artists. In order to obtain his inheritance, Quentin must secure a successful singing career for Mylove.

Once in the states, Mylove begins attending the Jewels Private School Of The Arts where she befriends many like minded kids. Yasmine, a 12 year old with a troubled past, 11 year old Chelsea, Quentin’s youngest artists Jabias, who starts to form a crush on Mylove, smart and business minded 12 year old named Sheldon, shy yet skillful 12 year old rapper Young D, plus many more interesting characters.
 

And since at least one casting call is going down March 16th in Bartlett, TN, it looks like this sitcom is a go.  Check out the trailer below:

Leave it to Diddy to now take over the beverage world after already taking over the entertainment world.  Check out his new AQUA business venture as the new water company's 'brand architect', plus Fantasia's new release date for her upcoming album...

He was Mr. MTV while taking over the reality show world and of course, has been ruling the entertainment world for a couple decades now. SO it's only right that Sean "Diddy" Combs teams up with the former CEO of Fiji, John Cochran, for John's new water company AQUAhydrate.

Diddy joined actor/producer Mark Wahlberg today to announce a joint venture with the Southern California-based fitness and wellness water brand. 

What will the fellas' responsibilities be?  To oversee business strategy, help drive the AQUAhydrate vision and be instrumental in helping secure retail partnerships for the water brand, such as their recently signed deals with Safeway, Kroger and GNC.  In other words, they'll pump out AQUAhydrate parties like Diddy did with Ciroc, put those water bottles in every movie and music video possible, and convince everybody that THIS water is the most special thing on earth. 

Diddy said today in a press release:

As a brand architect, I am incredibly passionate and equally committed to every aspect of the businesses that I get involved with.  Partnering with AQUAhydrate and Mark is an incredible opportunity for me and I am looking forward to making history in the process. Its important for me to be part of something that drives me and is constantly pushing the boundaries, and that's what AQUAhydrate does. Together, were going to take AQUAhydrate to the next level.

Get that cash Diddy.

In music news, Fantasia recently delayed the release of her upcoming fourth studio album, Side Effects Of You.  And today, she set the new release date for April 23rd.  The album will be available for pre-order on iTunes, Amazon.com and all online retailers on March 19th (her original release date).

Fanny says about her new album:

"‘Side Effects Of You’ reflects a body of work that I call ‘Rock Soul,’ where I’m exploring a new and refreshing sound that reflects my vocal versatility and appreciation for international appeal.  I wrote a great deal of the new songs alongside some great producers and songwriters and 19/RCA has allowed me to artistically express myself the way I've wanted to for years. I hope everyone will enjoy this project and experience the ROCK SOUL NATION AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT!”

Check out the behind the scenes footage for her lead single "Lose to Win" below:

As we continue our Blacks Making History campaign to close out Black History month, we're continuing to showcase YBF people doing amazing things you don't hear much about.  For the first time in U.S. history, a total of 32 people from America were selected as prestigious Rhodes Scholars...and three are YBF ladies.

Meet one of the young, black and fabulous 2013 Rhodes Scholars who graduated with honors from Yale, and has a fierce and fun persona.  Plus, we dig her love for hip hop...

Southside Chicago native Rhiana Gunn-Wright is putting the windy city in the headlines for all the right reasons.  Amidst the chaos and the drama plaguing the city, she's been featured on the front page in top news publications for receiving one of the biggest honors in the country.  She's joining the company former Presidents and world leaders, and she's barely in her 20's.

The prestigious Rhodes Scholarship is one of the top international awards bestowed on VERY few of the world's most impressive intellects who show through their scholastic and extracurricular endeavors.  And they are world changers.  They're the type of people who show you from the first impression that they're going to do "something."  You might not know what that something is....but it's going to be big.  Award recipients range from former President Bill Clinton to former US Ambassador Susan Rice to Newark Mayor Cory Booker (to name a few).

Rhiana, who graduated magna cum laude from Yale University in 2011 with majors in African American Studies and Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies, is the newest Rhodes Scholar....and a true YBF chick.  TheYBF.com spoke with her and we're extra impressed by her commitment to improving the world around her.  And doing so while maintaining her rigorous academic schedule and active social life.  She embodies what it means to be young, Black and fabulous.  She works hard...lives her life...and keeps focused on her goals.  Here's our chat:

What does it feel like to be named a Rhodes Scholar?
 
It feels insane and incredible all at once. It’s still hard for me believe that it actually happened. I want to hit a wall slide whenever I think about it. I just feel so incredibly blessed and grateful for the opportunity; it’s really amazing to see the Lord use my life like this.

How did you find out you were selected--and what was your initial response?

I found out a couple of hours after my one-on-one interview. I was sitting in a room with all of the other finalists from my District—all of whom were lovely, extremely impressive people—and the selection committee just came out and read the names of the candidates who won. I was shocked. It felt like everything was moving in slow motion. I was just staring at the Chairman with my mouth wide open after he said my name. Then I started making that real surprised Taylor Swift face. And THEN I started doing that thing beauty queens do when they win where they fan themselves real fast and cover their mouths. Basically, I was in a glass case of emotion and looking real foolish.
 
Do you remember when you first learned about the Rhodes Scholars and what led you to apply?
 
The first time I seriously learned about the Rhodes was my sophomore or junior year in college when my academic advisor told me I should consider applying. I researched the scholarship a little bit, but I didn’t want to go straight to graduate school after graduation so I decided not to apply. Then earlier last year, I was at work, and one of my co-workers told me about Cory Booker saving his neighbor from a burning building. (The man is basically a superhero.) So I started googling Cory Booker, and I learned that he was a Rhodes Scholar. Something just clicked. He is so committed to service, and it seemed like the Rhodes helped him to get to a place where he could serve others on a very broad scale. I knew that I wanted to do that same kind of work, so I decided to apply.
 
You seem well on your way to making your mark on Black History.  How important has education been to you on this journey?
 
Education has been extremely important. I mean I’ve always been a nerd. I’ve always liked to read and learn and think. But school gave me a place to channel that energy, and it taught me how to use it to create things—ideas, stories, whatever—that I thought could make life better. Plus, school has been where I have met some of my best friends and teachers. I would really be nowhere without my education.
 
What are you plans after you complete your studies?
 
I want to work on public policy, mostly related to poverty. It sounds kind of corny, but I really believe that it is our duty as Americans to care for one another in our times and places of need. Poverty is a factor in so many problems in our society, and I don’t think our country addresses the issue as well—or as humanely—as we should. I want to help us figure out how to do that better, so that we’re better serving those who are poor AND helping people climb out of poverty.   
 
Who do you consider to be "YBF" in your mind?
 
Beyoncé. Solange. Gabby Douglas. Many, many of my friends.  Really, I consider anyone “YBF”  who works hard, is honest about who they are, and lives their life in a way that brings them joy. They also need to at least be trying to make wise choices. Can’t be acting a mess out in these streets.
 
When faced with adversity, what do you pull from to stay motivated and focused?
 
I pray a LOT. During my Rhodes application process, I know God must have been like “Girl, HUSH.”
 
I also try to find some songs that speaks to how I’m feeling. I played out Big KRIT’s “Boobie Miles”, 
Kendrick Lamar’s "Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst,” and Lianne La Havas “Is Your Love Big Enough?” when I was applying. I have to play some music that just knocks from time to time too. I gotta get hype!


Who are you listening to on your IPOD/Pandora station/Spotify?

Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Miguel, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake. A lot of Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child. Some Gap Band and Anita Baker. I’ve had some Chicago hip hop artists like Vic Mensa and Chance the Rapper in heavy rotation too.  
 
What can someone (school students) do now to prepare to be a Rhodes Scholar?
 
You have to do the things that prepare you to excel in school. If you don’t have good study habits early on, it can be hard to hustle backwards and get it together later. Just get used to going hard when it comes to school. Also, find some interests outside of yourself. It doesn’t have to be volunteering necessarily; it can be music, art, math, whatever. Find something that feels important to you and commit yourself to it.

You will be across the pond soon-- what are some must haves you're taking with you?
 
Hair products. My Netflix and Hulu+ subscriptions. A bottle of hot sauce. Lay’s Tangy Carolina BBQ chips and a couple bags of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Garrett’s popcorn.

If you could bring 5 people across the pond with you to keep you company (dead or alive)--who would they be?
 
That’s hard! Probably my family, my girls, Ashley and Christina, and my goddaughter Amaya.
 
You're a Chicago native--and with all the recent press about the violence happening there-- what are some words of encouragement for young people there?

I am so saddened every time I hear about another person being gunned down in my city. So much of the violence is happening in the neighborhood where I grew up and in areas where I have family and friends. Honestly, it’s really hard for me to talk about.  I would just tell the young people in Chicago that they should be encouraged by their own strength and bravery. To walk around in communities that are basically war zones, much less to go to school, to take care of yourself, to do right by the people you love—that takes real courage. And that’s what they’re doing every day. They should be proud of that and know that they have the type of heart that can carry them wherever they want to go in life. If they can make it in Chicago, they can make it anywhere.

And Rhiana (who will begin her studies at Oxford in October) wasn't the only young, black and fabulous individual to be name a Rhodes scholar this year.  She will be joined by two other YBF ladies in her cohort.  According to the Journal of Blacks In Higher Education, 

Joy A. Buolamwini is a graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she majored in computer science. She is currently working at the Carter Center in Atlanta. She has founded or co-founded three businesses. She plans on a degree in African studies at Oxford.

Nina M. Yancy is a senior at Harvard University where she majors in social studies. Yancy grew up in the Dallas area but her family recently moved to Chicago. Yancy has had internships at CNN, the Center for American Political Studies and in the British House of Commons. She is a member of the Harvard Ballet Company. She plans on pursuing a master’s degree in global health science as a Rhodes Scholar.

 

Congratulations to all of the ladies!

Photos via IWPR/Georgia Tech/Yancy

Taraji P. Henson has loaned her gorgeous face and body to PETA for her second campaign with the organization...and this one is for the dogs. Find out how Taraji wants you to bring pooches into the fold inside...

First Taraji P. Henson bared her whole body for PETA in an anti-fur campaign, and now the 42-year-old "Person of Interest" star is rocking nothing but angel wings to spread awareness about being kind to dogs.  She stars alongside her own Shih Tzu "Uncle Willie" in the visual campaign as she encourages people to bring their dogs indoors, where they will be safe and warm. 

Shot by top celebrity photographer Don Flood, the ad stresses that"chained dogs suffer day in and day out. They are cold, hungry, thirsty, vulnerable, and lonely. Keep them inside, where it's safe and warm."

In this behind-the-scenes video, Taraji shares how viewers can help dogs forced to live at the end of a chain and how PETA is helping to get a roof over their heads.

And she speaks about her pup Uncle Willie saying, "I never thought that I could be so in love with an animal until I had Willie. He's our family. … He's just the best companion. Dogs to me are like children … they're the closest thing to God. They're so pure in their love, and all they do is aim to please."

Awww!

Watch the video here:

One high school in New York is attempting to bring "The Wiz" to the stage in a way that differs drastically from the both the movie and Broadway versions of the play....starring an all-White cast! Find out how the outraged parents are responding inside and speak on it...

"The Wiz" a musical became a star-making vehicle for Stephanie Mills when it hit Broadway in the 70s and big career moves for Michael Jackson and Diana Ross in the movie version.  It's been re-made several times over off-Broadway, through traveling tours/companies and on school campuses around the country.  

And while we understand that musicals are supposed to re-made and reinvented...a few parents at Cicero-North Syracuse High School in Cicero, New York are a little peeved that an upcoming version of the play will star a predominately White cast. And before you go thinking that there weren't enough Black actors at the high school to go around, parents say that just isn't that case. In fact....the Black actors were passed over.

It's actually been a full week of Blacks being passed over for Black roles as French fashion magazine Numéro reportedly may have passed over casting a Black model to celebrate African beauty and hired a white model for their "African Queen" spread! What's going on?!

Numéro apologized today saying they are sorry people are offended, and they believed in the artistic nature--which was in line with his previous images of "melting pots of cultre"--of the photgrapher, Sebastian Kim.

And after more backlash on the net, the photgrapher himself put out a statement saying, in part:

It was never my intention (nor Numero’s) to portray a black woman in this story. Our idea and concept for this fashion shoot was based on 60's characters of Talitha Getty, Verushka and Marissa Berenson with middle eastern and Moroccan fashion inspiration. We at no point attempted to portray an African women by painting her skin black.

Hmmm.

But back at the high school with "The Wiz" drama, there will be ONE Black actor in the play, Kierrah Titus, who was one of seven Blacks to audition, BUT she was relegated to the ensemble dance troupe.

Her mom, Letrice Titus, is speaking out asking a reporter at the Post-Standard. “Was there any outreach to the African-American students in the school? Why didn’t the school just do The Wizard of Oz?”  Preston Fagan, Cicero’s NAACP chapter president, sides with Letrice saying,  “To not let a black student have an acting role in this play is appalling. It’s almost an insult.”

Both Letrice and Preston spoke at a meeting with the North Syracuse Central School District Board of Education this week and voiced their concerns. For now, many African American parents and students plan to boycot the musical.  

Speak on it....should the community feel some kid of way...or does the school have every right to put on whatever productions they please, and cast whomever they please?

The Randomness:

1.  Former singer Michael Winans, Jr. was just sentenced to 14 years in jail in Detroit for running an $8 mill scheme over many years...and for running away once he was caught.  STORY

Nicki Minaj recently talked about her "changing" appearance and denied ever having surgery on her face.  She chalks up her appearance to good make-up and contouring.  And we believe her.  Watch the interview inside...

For a recent interview of Extra, "American Idol" judge talked to Nicki Minaj about rumors of plastic surgery and her second-run collection with MAC. Here are the highlights:

On  plastic surgery rumors:  

“I’ve never had surgery on my face…They'll see contour and they'll think you had surgery on your nose, no no no, look at RuPaul's drag race and you'll see how you can make your nose look any shape you want.”

On why her looks have seemed to change:

“When people see my makeup they think all types of crazy things that I'm doing to my skin, but it's makeup.”

On her second MAC lipstick: “It's a bit more grown and sexy and like... less is more.”

What she wears on a regular day:  “...scarf on my head, t-shirt, Uggs.”

On who would win if she and Mariah were the last two contestants competing on American Idol

Me of course! Oh, I wouldn't sing, I would just stand there and flash my boobs.

 

So there you have it.  Nicki has no plastic surgery....on her face.  With all that said, chick looks hot in the above pic from the upcoming "Freaks" video with French Montana.

Watch the clip here:

She's effortlessly gorgeous whether she's glammed up or casual'd out.  So it's only right the British clothing brand/store ASOS made the model/singer their newest cover model for the newest April 2013 issue of their magazine.

Check out Cassie's summer fresh pics in clothes from the upcoming season of ASOS...

Cassie's rocking crop tops with matching pants, sneakers, gold chains, jersey dresses, and varsity jackets for a euro-fresh shoot for ASOS' new magazine.

She's modeling the latest looks the store is selling.  And the "King of Hearts" chick looks hot as usual:

Cute.

Cassie tweeted that she's dropping the release date for her upcoming album RockABye Baby soon.  But with these cute pics, we still think she should stick with modeling...

Pics: Cassie-Ventura.com

Wednesday night at the Hammerstein Ballroom, celebs, including hosts Kelly Rowland and Boris Kodjoe, turned out for BET's 2013 Rip The Runway show.  Check out who all attended the taping and a few spoilers inside...

Hotties Kelly Rowland and Boris Kodjoe put on their hosting hats for BET's Rip The Runway taping Wednesday night.  Kelly looked gorgeous in a black chiffon cutout dress while Boris dressed up more than he did for Cynthia Bailey's pageant on "RHOA" last week.  And looked damn good.

Ms. Kelly looked gorge posing it up in her dress on the red carpet before the show started.

Meek Mill posed it up with Kelly on the carpet before his performance.

Nice look for Mr. Kodjoe.

Jaden Smith hit the carpet befoe taking the stage to perform.  And he posed it up with mom dukes Jada.

Fly as usual.

Jaden took the stage to rap one of his songs....and brought out his little sister Willow at the end.

Cute little look for Willow.

Speaking of performers, Rick Ross took the stage to tear things up with the models.

Teyana Taylor was there of course and brought her best friend Karrueche along.

This sexy dress is def her style.  And may be part of Kae's The Kill clothing line with Chris Brown.

Model Bria Murphy rocked a black & white look on the carpet, then kept it glam in a nude bodysuit and sheer overlay for the press room shoot.

Kelly changed into an all white look with a high slit and back cut-out to show off her bod.

Alicia Keys' brother Cole Cook kept it colorful on the red carpet.

Maybach O was in the building along with Ricky Ross.

And Chris Brown's new artist Sevyn Streeter performed and bared her midriff and colorful pants on the carpet.

The show airs on BET March 20th at 10p/9ct.

Actress Vivica A. Fox was spotted dining out in the nation's capital last night.  Find out the historical event she attended inside....

Vivica A. Fox was spotted in Washington, DC last night where she dined at the posh Oceanaire restaurant.  We wonder what her ex fiancee Slimm has been up to because Viv looks like she's 100% over it.

Wearing an Oscar de la Renta dress and Christian Louboutain heels, the movie star/televsion actress could barely make it down the street without being stopped for autographs and photos.  

Vivica was in town for the unveiling of the new Rosa Parks statue.  And she hit Black History Month receptions at the White House and at the home of Vice President Biden.

With several upcoming films slated for release (including Home Run, Crosstown& Queen City), Vivica is doing her talk show rounds with an appearance on ANDERSON LIVE tomorrow where she'll co-host with Anderson Cooper.  Chick looks great these days.  That skin and makeup are working it out.  Nice.

Photos via 4th Street Films

Award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay is helping usher in a new wave of Black directors and auteurs committed to creating realistic depictions of Black life.  And the up and comer's got top YBF celebrity women and fashion houses like Gabrielle Union, Alfre Woodard and Miu Miu Prada already in her fold. 

Meet Ava inside to find out why, and her take on what's missing on the big screen...

Indie director Ava DuVernay and her wonderfully shot depictions of African American life have been bubbling over since her directorial debut with the critically-acclaimed 2008 hip hop documentary, "This is The Life." But it was her 2012 historic win at the Sundance Film Festival for her second feature, Middle of Nowhere, that has help generate a much-needed buzz around Black film and their need for an audience.

She's the perfect subject to close out our Black Making History campaign on the last day of Black History Month.  As the first black woman to win the Best Director prize at Sundance, Ava prides herself on telling realistic stories about Black life and creating a platform to help other storytellers. During an exclusive chat with TheYBF.com, Ava opened up about her journey and how Black audiences can access the films that tell the stories they desire to see.

Ava is a graduate of UCLA where she studied English and African American studies.  And she began her career as a studio publicist for tv shows like "Girlfriends" and movies like Dreamgirls and The Help.  So how did she make the leap?  She tells us, "Being on a film set and being around directors, I started to catch the buzz and I said to myself, 'I can do that. I have stories to tell. I wanna to give it a shot.'"

But with bills to pay, Ava realized she needed to keep her full-time gig while exploring her newfound interest.  One year, she used her Christmas break to make a film (because she never went to film school, she considers that to be her first film). And with that...she became a full-fledged filmmaker.  

"There was a lot of fear around it (making films), but one of the things that helped me was that I did it gradually. I think a lot people think that when they have a dream it needs to be all or nothing right away.  And I think it was really powerful for me to keep my one foot in what I knew and just dip my toe in experimenting and following the dream."

So how'd she go about making the dream come true?

"I would write or direct things at night. I would go observe other directors on the weekend and I would still have my full time job as a publicist. I think that helped me when I look back."

Her advice to other artists chasing their dream is,"You don't have to make a change cold turkey. You can do it gradually and then look up and you have gotten to where you are going."

And where Ava's going and where she's been shows quite an impressive journey.  In 2010 she directed three network documentaries in 2010 including "My Mic Sounds Nice" ( a definitive history of female hip hop artists) the "Essence Music Festival 2010" (documenting the nation's largest annual African-American entertainment gathering) and "Faith Through The Storm" (about black women Katrina survivors). And 2011 saw the release of I Will Follow starring Salli-Richardson-Whitfield, which Ava wrote, produced and directed.

But it was her Sundance win for Middle of Nowhere, which tells the story of a black woman struggling to support her incarcerated husband, that brought international attention to her method of storytelling.  

And that win helped opened the door (literally) for a silent-film she produced for Miu Miu Prada called"The Door", starring Gabrielle Union and Alfre Woodard.  And it took the internet by storm.

When asked about her approach to films, she shared,

"I just want to tell true stories that deal with real Black people and not the most heightened and tragic moments. Those things do happen, but there are also parts of our lives where we struggle with the normal emotions of our heart like grief, fear, loyalty and love.  I feel like I see those things portrayed in films for mainstream culture but everything I see in Black films is heightened.  In my films I just try to show everyday black people living everyday lives that are spectacular just in their everydayness."

For folks who constantly complain about the current crop of Black films that normally see wide releases, Ava adds,  "The films that we want are there….but they are not getting to us easily. We have to demand them."

Ava, who just won the prestigious John Cassavetes Award for ‘Middle of Nowhere’ this month (pictured above) at 2013 Independent Spirit Awards, shared that there are many more Black directors and filmmakers out there who are telling stories that deserve to be heard.  To help spread the word, she founded AFFRM, the African-American Film Festival Releasing Movement, which aims to distribution independent African American films.

"There are a lot of these beautiful independent films by black directors that are so gorgeous but we can't get larger audiences because people just don't know about them. We want to get more Black people aware that there are great films out there and when they come to your city….you have to go see them and you have to tell people about them!"

It's one thing to complain about the state of black film, and it's another to recognize the importance and make history by doing something about it.  Follow Ava DuVernay on Twitter at @AVAETC.

Find out more about Black filmmakers and their movies online at AFFRM and on Twitter @affrm.

Check out the rest of the features in YBF's Blacks Making History Campaign below:

Sam Fine, Makeup Guru

Johnny Wright, Personal Hairstylist to First Lady Michelle Obama

Rihana Gunn-Wright, 2013 Rhodes Scholar

Steve Stoute, Ad Executive

Bobby Brownwas sentenced to 55 days in jail yesterday for his second DUI conviction in a year, the latest arrest being last April.  So he decided to get his affairs...and dinner parties...in order before he heads to lock up for a month and a half in March. 

Check out Bobby, Lisa Vanderpump and the fabulous Jiggy inside...

This is random...yet we love it.  Singer Bobby Brown and his wife Alicia Etheredge were spotted hanging out last night with "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Lisa Vanderpump and her husband and co-star Ken and famous pup Jiggy.

The foursome plus the pup headed to Madeo for a swanky bute to eat as Bad Ass Bobby Brown was spotted carrying the cutesy Jiggy out of the restaurant.

And it seems Bobby is taking his sobriety seriously this time as his lawyer sent a statement today saying:

"A mutually acceptable plea agreement was entered into on behalf of Bobby Brown and the City Attorney’s Office. Mr. Brown has accepted responsibility for what occurred last October. Mr. Brown continues to remain committed to his sobriety. Mr. Brown is pleased that the matter has been resolved.”

Good to hear.

And if Bobby's lucky, he may get out in a few hours much like Lindsay Lohan did.  We shall see...

Pics via FAME

Author, philanthropist and music executive Kevin Liles celebrated his 45th birthday with many of the celebs he helped turn into stars last night. See pics of Jay-Z, Estelle, Trey Songz and more inside....

Last night, Jay-Z and Trey Songz were among the celebs who partied at The Rec Room in NYC to celebrate Kevin Liles' 45th Birthday Party.

Trey, who's managed by Kevin, gave a heartfelt speech during the festivites.  

British import Estelle came out to support Kevin too.  

And Estelle posed with a few other party goers who have all benefitted from Kevin's wisdom along the way.  She posted, "All young supportive and overachieving... #newsterotype #Asitshouldbe... #GirlswithGifts #AllOfMe."  The fab ladies included Angela Simmons, track and field superstar Sanya Richards Ross and makeup artist Joanna Simkin.

And of course, Kevin's lovely wife Erika was on his arm for the celebration.

Erika helped round out the speeches given by the well-wishers as she toasted her husband who'll soon be heading to Broadway with the play "The Trip to Bountiful."

Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage/Instagram

Jada Pinkett Smith is lending her time to a great cause.  She popped up in Long Beach yesterday for the Chime For Change By Gucci launch at TED.  And we've got the pics, the cause, and the first video starring Beyonce...

At the Westin Hotel yesterday in Long Beach, CA, Jada Pinkett Smith turned up for the Chime For Change By Gucci launch at TED. 

As we previously reported, she serves on the advisory board alongside other A-listers.  And she posed it up with co-founder of the org, Salma Hayek, Johnson Publishing CEO Desiree Rogers and more.

According to the organization's Facebook page, their mission is the following:

‘Not one, but billions of voices supporting the empowerment of girls and women. Empowerment through health, through education, through justice. The three stars [Salma Hayek, Beyonce and Frida Giannani] are encouraging viewers to join them in ‘join a global campaign for girls and women’.

Yesterday, the org debuted its first video in a series of 10 that will serve to spread the word about the empowerment of young women.

Beyonce, who co-founded the campaign, lends her face & voice to the first video.  In it, she officially introduces herself as Beyonce Knowles-Carter and reveals why this cause is so important to her.  And reportedly, Beyonce has made new music for these videos.

Check it out below:

The Randomness:

1.  The CW's "90210" has been cancelled after 5 seasons.  Tristan Wilds starred in the show, and there are 7 episodes left.  STORY

The reigning NBA champions, The Miami Heat, have joined in the viral Harlem Shake craze and dropped their own version straight from the locker room.  Watch it inside and see Kanye West poping off during his latest rant in Amsterdam.  

The 2013 version of the Harlem Shake craze has caught on everywhere...including the NBA.  Now the fans can see LeBron James shirtless (in a king's costume), Mario Chalmers as Super Mario, and Chris "Birdman" Andersen as a bird! And we peeped Chris Bosh walking around with a huge boom box.  We're pretty over this whole craze, but this one is funny.

The clip was filmed in Miami's locker room with Mario tweeting, "In life u gotta figure out how to have fun and enjoy it. Hope y'all enjoy."  And LeBron tweeted, "A King James and @DwyaneWade aka W.O.W productions. http://gohe.at/HEATHarlemShake"

Watch the Miami Heat do the "Harlem Shake" here:

And on the other side of the world....

What's a Kanye West concert without a rant? We saw him popping off in London a few days ago, he did the same in Paris and he still seems to have a lot on his mind as he continues his trek across Europe.  

At this point, you have to look forward to the rants (as if they're included in the ticket price) and compare notes with friends in other cities saying, "So what did he rant about at your show?" Last night, Yeezy fans in Amsterdam got an earful about "brands" and "lack of creativity." Sit back an enjoy....if you can follow along.

Halle Berry and Morris Chestnut are making their rounds around the country promoting their new movie, The Call.  And Morris couldn't keep his eyes off his co-star.  And we really can't blame him.

Pics inside...

46-year-old Halle and 44-year-old Morris popped up at Showplace Icon Theater in Chicago last night looking all kinds of good.  Neither of them really age...and Morris has no qualms about checking out his engaged co-star with no shame.

Halle rocked a simple black fitted dress with cut-out shoulders.  And Morris, who is gearing up for the upcoming Best Man movie sequel Best Man Holiday, kept it clean in a dark suit.

Fresh faced and gorgeous as usual.  The Call hits theaters March 15th.

The Randomness:

1.  Kenya Moore says Honey Boo Boo looks like a "glorified hooker" based on how her mom dresses her at pageants.  STORY

Where there's a sold out rap concert, there may be a shootout.  And last night in Philly...that's exactly what went down.  Deets inside about the deadly shootout outside French Montana's tour bus and why everybody's being questioned....

French Montana and Meek Mill hit up Meek's hometown of Philly last night for a sold out concert as part of French's tour.  And after the concert, ish got real.

French Instagrammed the above pic of himself and Meek and co. on the tour bus right around the time of the incident, and another pic of himself getting questioned by the cops. 

NBC News reports that tons of fans were around the tour bus as it pulled into the Holiday Inn Express after the concert.  All of a sudden, shots rang out in the crowd.  It's unclear if French and Meek were the targets.

It's been reported that a 27-year-old man was rushed to the hospital with a gunshot wound, and he has been pronounced dead.  Since more gunshots from a different source--as someone shot back--were also reported, the police questioned French Montana and his whole entourage last night as to who fired the return shots exactly.  Reportedly, many in the entourage were carrying guns.

Check out the full report from the news above.  Foolishness.