Tag: Grammys

  • Chappell Roan Dishes on Dating, Sex, and Preferences in ‘Call Her Daddy’ Interview

    Chappell Roan Dishes on Dating, Sex, and Preferences in ‘Call Her Daddy’ Interview

    Pop singer Chappell Roan, the 2025 Grammy Award winner for Best New Artist, recently opened up about her love life and sexual preferences in a candid interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast with host Alex Cooper.

    Alex Cooper and Chappell Roan on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast.
    Chappell Roan on the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast.

    Roan Reveals Relationship

    During an earnest conversation about the importance of being single, Cooper asked Roan if she was currently single. Roan surprised Cooper by revealing she has been dating someone for six months.

    “No,” Roan answered, prompting laughter from both.

    Roan clarified that the relationship is serious and not casual.

    “I’m very in love… but I am pro-single. Everyone should be single,” Roan said. “Have a great time alone. Find out for yourself if you can a hundred percent be okay alone before you date.”

    Chappell Roan on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast.
    Chappell Roan on the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast.

    Roan also shared that she was dating the same person before her rise to fame.

    “I haven’t dated someone since this all really, really blew up,” Roan told Cooper. “I’m dating the same person that I was dating before I got [famous].”

    Roan expressed concern about dating new people after gaining recognition.

    “I’m not sure how I would date [a new person] now. I think it’d actually be a nightmare. I think I would be so single right now, because you’re terrified of their intentions. I’m scared. I don’t trust anyone. I just think, in my head, any new person that I’m texting, I’m like, ‘I’m assuming they will screenshot this and send it to someone else,’” Roan explained.

    Roan’s Preferences and Candid Discussion

    Roan also engaged in a frank discussion about her sexual preferences. She contrasted oral sex on men with oral sex on women, stating that the latter is “way, way easier.”

    “When I started hooking up with women, I realized how easy it is, actually. I realized how easy it is to eat a girl out, and how this whole time I thought it was, ‘Oh, your neck hurts so bad.’ I thought, ‘Oh… it’s, like, hard. My jaw hurts.’ You know what’s hard? Sucking dick,” Roan declared.

    She further elaborated on the differences, adding: “Eating a girl out? You can lay down!”

    Alex Cooper and Chappell Roan on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast.
    Alex Cooper and Chappell Roan on the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast.

    Roan also addressed the topic of anal sex, stating her willingness to “peg” partners.

    “But when I started hooking up with women, I was like, ‘Fuck you guys.’ This is enjoyable, first of all. Second of all: [It’s] way, way easier. It’s actually fucking crazy. So what, you can’t find the clit? Work harder. It may take 10 minutes longer. That’s fine.”

    The interview continued with a rapid-fire question round.

    Rapid-Fire Questions

    The interview concluded with a rapid-fire question round. Cooper’s quick questions and Roan’s candid answers covered a range of topics:

    • Cooper: “Do you like to give first, or receive first, with your partner?” Roan: “Give first.”
    • When asked about public displays of affection (PDA), Roan was strongly against it, saying, “Don’t fucking do that. Don’t, actually. Legit don’t. I just got, like, really stressed out.”
    • Regarding communication, Roan expressed a preference for both FaceTime and phone calls, stating, “I like both! I feel like a lot of Gen Z is just FaceTime instead of call, but I like both.”
    • Roan stated she prefers late-night sex over morning sex, answering “Late night. Late night.”
    • She also shared that she prefers to make the first move in relationships, replying, “Make the first move.”
    • When asked about past experiences, Roan said she enjoyed both drunk and high sex, but would likely choose high sex now that she doesn’t drink, answering, “God, both are awesome. But I’d probably have high sex now.”
    • Regarding sex toys, Roan said she does not prefer “rabbits,” stating, “I do not fuck with rabbits. I don’t fuck with like a lot of them, honestly.”
    • When Cooper asked about a specific pulsating clitoral stimulator, Roan responded enthusiastically, indicating she was familiar with the device. Cooper described it as “the one that like pulsates and it’s like the ‘womanizer’ thing?” Roan responded with an excited, “Yes!”

    The “Call Her Daddy” podcast featuring Chappell Roan is available on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube.

  • Doechii Introduces Lady Gaga at iHeart Radio Awards: ‘Lady Gaga Wasn’t Just a Pop Star, She Was a Lifeline’

    Doechii Introduces Lady Gaga at iHeart Radio Awards: ‘Lady Gaga Wasn’t Just a Pop Star, She Was a Lifeline’

    Lady Gaga was honored with the Innovator Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards on Monday night in a star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles. The pop icon, known for her groundbreaking music and boundary-pushing performances, was introduced by rapper Doechii, who shared a heartfelt tribute to Gaga’s impact on her life and career.

    Doechii, a Grammy Award-winning artist, spoke about how Gaga’s influence helped her navigate her own identity growing up. “Growing up, I was nothing like most of the people I was around, and everything about me represented a community of alternative kids that were underrepresented in my environment,” Doechii said. “I was considered weird, but it’s OK, because things worked out. As a kid that identified as an artist, as queer, and as a Little Monster, Lady Gaga wasn’t just a pop star, she was a lifeline. Gaga taught us that it was OK to be our real selves, to try new things, to speak out, and to create.”

    The rapper further highlighted Gaga’s evolution as an artist, noting her continuous reinvention over the past two decades. “Gaga was and always is new, fresh, and different. And not only is that OK, but it’s ideal. Over the last two decades, her music, her art has constantly evolved from dance floor anthems to pop rock to jazz standards. She has pushed boundaries, including her own, and made all of us feel like we belong,” Doechii said. “Lady Gaga is an innovator because she has to be. She was born that way, and we love her for it. Lady Gaga isn’t just a pop star, but she is your iHeartRadio innovator.”

    When Gaga took the stage to accept the prestigious award, she expressed her gratitude to Doechii and the fans who have supported her throughout her career. “I think we can all agree that Doechii is an innovator already,” Gaga said, thanking the rapper for her touching words. “Thank you, Doechii. I’m really, deeply touched by your words.”

    The 37-year-old singer, who released her seventh studio album Mayhem earlier this year, also reflected on the ongoing journey of her career. “Innovation isn’t about breaking rules, it’s about writing your own and convincing the world they were theirs all along,” she said.

    During her acceptance speech, Gaga took a moment to express her appreciation for her loyal fanbase, affectionately known as her Little Monsters, and the LGBTQ+ community. “Thank you for always seeing me so clearly, from The Fame to Mayhem. Because you saw me, I learned to see myself,” she said. “And to the LGBTQ+ community, you taught me bravery before the world was ready to listen. You changed the world for the better and your courage fuels mine every single day.”

    Gaga’s speech was a powerful reminder of the immense impact she has had on both the music industry and on her fans. From her rise to fame with The Fame in 2008 to her current musical evolution, she has continuously challenged expectations and redefined what it means to be an artist.

    The Innovator Award is just the latest recognition in Gaga’s illustrious career, which spans multiple genres, including pop, jazz, and rock, and showcases her exceptional talent not only as a singer but also as an actress and advocate for social change. As she continues to evolve as both an artist and a public figure, Gaga’s influence shows no signs of waning.

    In addition to her music career, Gaga remains a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, using her platform to speak out for marginalized communities and inspire others to embrace their true selves. As she continues to push boundaries and innovate in all aspects of her life, Lady Gaga’s legacy as a cultural trailblazer is firmly cemented.

  • Bad Bunny’s Puerto Rican Heat: Calvin Klein Campaign Sets Social Media Ablaze

    Bad Bunny’s Puerto Rican Heat: Calvin Klein Campaign Sets Social Media Ablaze

    Bad Bunny, global music superstar and vocal LGBTQ+ ally and advocate, is the star of Calvin Klein‘s latest underwear campaign, showcasing the brand’s new Icon Cotton Stretch line. The campaign, shot in Puerto Rico, has generated significant online buzz, featuring the Grammy Award-winning artist in a series of striking images.

    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti

    “This has been in the works for some time now, seeing it finally come to life has been gratifying,” Bad Bunny said in a press release. “I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this brand’s iconic campaign, and getting to shoot it in Puerto Rico made it that much more special and genuine.”

    In an interview with GQ, Bad Bunny discussed the preparation involved in the campaign, revealing a dedicated focus on diet and fitness. “I had a whole routine focused on my physique and getting into the best shape for this campaign,” he said. “I was eating super clean and training as much as possible.”

    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti

    The artist also spoke about his latest album and his creative process. “The easiest and most impactful way for me to put my signature on any project is always through music,” he said. “I truly believe that the best way to make an impact is by being genuine, authentic, and the best version of yourself—that’s exactly what my latest album is all about.”

    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti

    His song “DtMF” has recently gained viral popularity on TikTok.

    Bad Bunny, a vocal LGBTQ+ ally and advocate, highlighted his commitment to showcasing Puerto Rican culture. He recently performed at the SNL50 television event, where he emphasized his roots. “I just stuck with what we’ve been highlighting since the beginning of the year: my culture [and] Puerto Rican music,” he said of the event. “It felt like the perfect stage to introduce Los Sobrinos to the world and highlight Puerto Rican talent.”

    Following the campaign photoshoot, Bad Bunny expressed his desire for a specific culinary experience. “All I could think about once we wrapped the campaign was eating everything on the menu at Lala,” he said. “But what I was craving the most were the Manchego croquetas and the crispy tuna rice.”

    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti

    A warm wave of appreciation has washed over social media for Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein campaign! Fans are delighted with the collaboration, and the images are simply gorgeous.

    Calvin Klein’s choice to feature Bad Bunny reflects the brand’s ongoing strategy of collaborating with influential figures in music and entertainment. The campaign aims to resonate with a broad audience, leveraging Bad Bunny’s global appeal and cultural relevance. His commitment to authenticity and his focus on his Puerto Rican heritage align with the brand’s efforts to connect with diverse communities.

    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
    Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
  • Doechii to Headline WorldPride DC 2025 Closing Ceremony and Concert on June 8

    Doechii to Headline WorldPride DC 2025 Closing Ceremony and Concert on June 8

    Grammy Award-winning rapper and songwriter Doechii has been announced as the headliner for the WorldPride DC 2025 Closing Ceremony and Concert, set to take place on Sunday, June 8, 2025. The event, which will be free to the public, will serve as the grand finale of WorldPride DC, bringing together thousands to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and resilience.

    The closing ceremony will unfold along Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, marking the second day of the WorldPride DC Street Festival and Concert. The event promises an electrifying evening, with Doechii at the forefront, offering a performance that showcases her bold artistry and unapologetic authenticity. Her appearance at the event will highlight the energy and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community as the weeklong celebration wraps up.

    “We are thrilled to have Doechii headline this historic event,” said Ryan Bos, Executive Director of the Capital Pride Alliance, the host organization for WorldPride DC 2025. “The Sunday Closing Ceremony and Concert is a moment of reflection, unity, and celebration as we acknowledge the challenges before us in preserving the freedoms we’ve fought for and ensuring members of our community do not get left behind. Doechii’s unique artistry makes her the perfect artist to close out this monumental celebration.”

    The WorldPride DC 2025 Closing Ceremony and Concert will also feature a diverse lineup of performers, along with the official passing of the WorldPride torch to the next host city, Amsterdam. It is set to be a powerful conclusion to the global event, with music, speeches, and cultural expressions from LGBTQ+ voices around the world.

    Earlier this month, it was announced that multi-award-winning artist Cynthia Erivo will headline the Saturday Street Festival and Concert on June 7, 2025. Erivo, a Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award winner, and three-time Oscar nominee, will bring her powerhouse performance to the stage, ensuring a weekend filled with exceptional talent and unforgettable moments. Together, Doechii’s Sunday show and Erivo’s Saturday performance promise to deliver an extraordinary weekend of celebration for the LGBTQ+ community.

    The WorldPride Street Festival and Concert will take place on Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8, from noon to 10 p.m. along Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, between 9th and 3rd Street. In addition to live performances, the festival will feature LGBTQ+ exhibitors, artisans, food and beverage gardens, and a variety of entertainment for attendees of all ages.

    For more information about WorldPride DC 2025 and to stay updated on event programming and performances, visit WorldPrideDC.org. Further details about the lineup and additional events will be announced in the coming weeks.

    This year’s WorldPride event promises to be one of the largest and most memorable LGBTQ+ celebrations in history, uniting people from around the world in support of the ongoing fight for equality and visibility.

  • Lady Gaga Celebrates LGBTQ+ Resilience and Her Own Evolution in ‘Mayhem’ Era

    Lady Gaga Celebrates LGBTQ+ Resilience and Her Own Evolution in ‘Mayhem’ Era

    Lady Gaga has consistently reshaped the pop landscape with each album, from the glitzy rise of The Fame to the emotional depth of Joanne and the sci-fi fantasy of Chromatica. Now, with her highly anticipated seventh studio album, Mayhem, the superstar turns the focus inward, reflecting on the shape of her own stardom and embracing her true artistry.

    In an interview with Out, Gaga describes Mayhem as “a lot of gothic dreams,” a theme that has quietly resonated throughout her career. “I’ve realized that’s been a part of my music since early in my career,” she explains, suggesting that the album marks an exploration of her own evolution as both an artist and a person.

    At 38, Gaga feels a renewed sense of confidence in her musical journey. “As a pop star, I want to be able to celebrate the parts of myself that I know will carry me forward,” she says, comfortably relaxing under a blanket with sunlight streaming in. She recalls advice from legendary jazz singer Tony Bennett, who urged her to focus on quality. “If the thing that I focus on for the rest of my career is my musicianship, that will be a way for me to move forward, and with confidence,” Gaga reflects.

    Throughout her career, Gaga has cemented herself not only as a defining figure of pop culture but also as a multifaceted artist, admired for her musicianship and her willingness to push boundaries. “I’m not sure if people know that I’ve been producing all my albums my whole career. I’ve always been a co-producer and writer on my records. I just feel more comfortable talking about it now,” she reveals. “I’m also really proud of this music. I’m very proud of the production on this album.”

    In a world dominated by social media feeds, trending topics, and viral moments, Gaga has long tackled the intersection of fame, artifice, and identity—issues she first delved into with ARTPOP in 2013. Yet, in 2025, as artists and brands navigate an increasingly polarized social landscape, Gaga continues to thrive. At the Grammy Awards, she earned a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with the hauntingly romantic track “Die With a Smile,” which closes out Mayhem. During her acceptance speech, Gaga used the opportunity to speak out on behalf of the trans community, reiterating her commitment to supporting marginalized voices.

    That same night, Gaga made another bold statement by releasing her new song “Abracadabra” and its accompanying music video during an ad break in the Grammy telecast. For her queer fans, the excitement was palpable. “It means the absolute world to me,” Gaga says, visibly moved. “I can’t even begin to tell you how grateful I am, and what it means to be supported by a community that I respect so much. A community that is responsible for so much great art for thousands of years.”

    Gaga’s continued support for the LGBTQ+ community is not just an underlying current in her music, but a defining element of her public persona. “It really means a lot,” she adds, “and I hope that I made something that the LGBTQ+ community felt was also indicative of the resilience that I see in queer people all the time.”

    Though many would consider the support of allies to be a given, Gaga continues to make her commitment to the queer community front and center in her career. “I just want to say that I love you so much,” she tells Out. “And I thank you for your endless amounts of love, inspiration, and strength. Thank you for teaching the world how to be kind, and to love. And know that I’m going to have the back of the LGBTQ+ community every single day.”

    Gaga pauses before continuing: “Actually, I think my message wouldn’t necessarily be to the queer community. It would be to everyone else: You can learn a lot from the queer community about love.”

    As she embarks on this new era, Gaga continues to use her platform not only to create art but to advocate for love, inclusion, and strength—values that have always been at the core of her music and public persona. Mayhem is a reflection of her personal and artistic growth, blending the gothic with the glamorous as she shapes the next chapter of her career, staying true to the very parts of herself that have defined her journey.

  • Cynthia Erivo to Headline WorldPride DC 2025 Saturday Night Concert

    Cynthia Erivo to Headline WorldPride DC 2025 Saturday Night Concert

    WorldPride DC 2025 organizers have announced that Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winner Cynthia Erivo will headline the Saturday night Street Festival and Concert on June 7, 2025, following the iconic parade. The news was revealed today exclusively on ABC’s GMA3: What You Need to Know. The free, two-day event will be held on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., and is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of attendees from across the globe to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and unity.

    The performance will take place against the stunning backdrop of the U.S. Capitol Building, offering a powerful and emotional conclusion to the day’s parade. Erivo’s participation underscores her dedication to both artistry and activism, as she is known not only for her incredible talent but also for her advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion.

    “As the culminating event for the parade, the Saturday night concert will be an extraordinary moment of unity, celebration, and visibility for our global LGBTQ+ community,” said Ryan Bos, Executive Director of the Capital Pride Alliance, the host of WorldPride 2025. “Cynthia Erivo’s powerful artistry and unwavering advocacy make her the perfect artist to headline this momentous event.”

    Erivo, an award-winning performer, is widely recognized for her accomplishments in music, theater, and film. The actress and singer, who has earned three Academy Award nominations, as well as multiple Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Awards, is a passionate advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. Her headlining performance at WorldPride DC 2025 is expected to be a major highlight of the event, celebrating both her artistic excellence and her commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.

    The WorldPride Street Festival and Concert will take place on June 7-8, 2025, and will feature a dynamic mix of local artists, DJs, and performers. In addition to Erivo’s headline performance, the event will showcase a diverse range of entertainment, with performances from both global stars and local LGBTQ+ artists. The festival will also include vibrant exhibits, artisan markets, and food and beverage gardens, providing an inclusive and celebratory environment for all attendees.

    “This event is about community,” said Bos. “It’s about bringing people together to celebrate our shared humanity and the progress we’ve made while continuing to fight for a future where equality and acceptance are a given for everyone, regardless of their identity.”

    The two-day event will run from noon to 10:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with the festivities spanning Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, between 9th and 3rd Streets. The weekend will culminate in a Closing Night Concert on Sunday, June 8, featuring a to-be-announced lineup of marquee performers alongside emerging LGBTQ+ and allied local artists.

    This year’s WorldPride theme, The Fabric of Freedom, reflects the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. It also highlights the ongoing struggle for equality, celebrating the diverse histories, struggles, and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide. The theme is particularly meaningful as it follows the 2024 U.S. presidential inauguration, symbolizing the continued fight for equality and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.

    For the latest updates on the programming and lineup, visit the official WorldPride DC 2025 website at WorldPrideDC.org. Additional details about the lineup and performances will be announced in the coming weeks.

    WorldPride DC 2025 is set to be an unforgettable weekend of music, unity, and advocacy, underscoring the importance of visibility, inclusion, and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community across the globe.

  • Tate McRae Calls Gay Fans Her “Favorite,” Reveals Entire Team is LGBTQ+ in Candid Interview

    Tate McRae Calls Gay Fans Her “Favorite,” Reveals Entire Team is LGBTQ+ in Candid Interview

    Rising pop star Tate McRae is opening up about her strong bond with her LGBTQ+ fans, admitting they are her “favorite” and sharing that her entire team is LGBTQ+. In an interview with Pride on Tuesday, February 25, McRae, 21, expressed how much she values the support from her queer audience, calling them her “number ones.”

    “They’re my favorite. No one beats them. Nobody is better than them,” McRae said. “My whole team is gay! That’s the only opinion I really want when I’m releasing music. I feel lucky to have their advice. We want to do the most and push the boundaries, but it’s also the most brutally honest advice.”

    McRae went on to praise her LGBTQ+ fans for their loyalty and support, saying, “You know that as much as you guys ride for me, I ride for you. I feel very grateful to have you guys in my life and surrounding me.”

    The Canadian singer-songwriter has quickly gained popularity with hits like “Sports Car” and “She’s All I Wanna Be.” Her connection with the LGBTQ+ community has played a significant role in shaping her artistic journey, and she is unapologetically vocal about her appreciation for them.

    Elsewhere in the interview, McRae shared her dream collaboration, revealing she would love to write with Grammy-winning artist SZA. “My dream is to write with SZA. She’s one of the coolest and best writers ever. I love her,” McRae said. When asked about what kind of music their collaboration would produce, she described it as a “mix of pop and R&B.”

    “I’d let her take the charge!” McRae added. “I just want to always keep pushing my comfort zone. I never want to recycle and do the same things. As an artist, I want to be uncomfortable and shock myself sometimes.”

    McRae also reflected on the pressure of being compared to pop legends, including Britney Spears, a comparison she called “flattering and scary.” Her comments come amid the release of her third studio album So Close to What on February 21, which includes the song “I Know Love,” a collaboration with her boyfriend, The Kid LAROI.

    Tate Mcrae & The Kid LAROI Performing 'Without You' at Madison Square Garden. Photo: YouTube
    Tate Mcrae & The Kid LAROI Performing ‘Without You’ at Madison Square Garden. Photo: YouTube

    Discussing the dynamics of working with a romantic partner, McRae shared that the creative process was “a little stressful” but ultimately rewarding. “It was a really funny process because me and Laroi have never really taken each other seriously,” she said. “You know when you’re in a relationship, and you sing around each other, you don’t really sing. So, it’s a little stressful being in the studio, singing and writing in front of him, but it was a cool experience to watch him in his process.”

    As her music continues to gain traction, McRae’s openness about her LGBTQ+ fandom and her creative aspirations are making her one of the most relatable stars in pop music today.

  • How Celebrities are Honoring the Death of Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer and Longtime LGBTQ+ Ally

    How Celebrities are Honoring the Death of Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer and Longtime LGBTQ+ Ally

    Roberta Flack, the iconic R&B singer best known for hits like “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” has passed away Monday morning (Feb. 24) at age 88. Her representatives confirmed her death in a statement released on February 24, 2025, noting that Flack died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

    “We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning,” the statement read. “Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”

    Flack scored major chart successes with songs such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” which became a No. 1 hit, and the unforgettable “Killing Me Softly With His Song.” Other hits included “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” “Where Is The Love,” and “The Closer I Get To You.” The Fugees famously covered “Killing Me Softly,” introducing the classic track to a new generation.

    Following the news of Roberta Flack’s passing, several celebrities paid tribute to the music legend on social media. Questlove of The Roots shared a black-and-white photo of Flack on Instagram, captioning it, “Thank You Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Questlove (@questlove)

    Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers also honored Flack, writing simply on his page, “Roberta Forever.”

    Kelly Rowland expressed her deep sorrow on X, formerly known as Twitter: “My heart just sank!! Our Dear Ms. Roberta Flack has ascended beyond but what beauty she has left us with!! THANK YOU for your effortless, most beautiful gift! THANK YOU for being a part of the soundtrack to the most tender moments in my life! So Grateful for you!”

    Jennifer Hudson, another powerhouse singer, added, “So sad to hear of Roberta Flack’s passing. One of the great soul singers of all time. Rest well, Ms. Flack. Your legacy lives on!!!”

    In addition to her storied musical career, Flack was also a committed ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Her support for LGBTQ+ rights and causes began early in her career. In the late 1960s, she performed in a Georgetown restaurant that catered to a gay clientele. She often spoke about the impact this had on her and the awareness it gave her about LGBTQ+ culture.

    In a 1979 interview, Flack recalled that performing for a gay audience opened up “a whole new world” for her. She later dedicated songs to the community, including her 1969 cover of “Ballad of the Sad Young Men,” which she said resonated deeply with gay men. “I sang [‘Ballad of the Sad Young Men’] about soldiers, then, later, about gay men. It touches me deeply every time,” she told The Guardian.

    Flack’s commitment to LGBTQ+ causes continued throughout her career. In 1982, she sang the theme song for Making Love, a controversial film that depicted a romance between two men, further solidifying her role as an ally. More recently, her music was featured on the soundtrack of the FX series Pose, which spotlighted the lives of queer and trans communities in the 1980s.

    Flack shared her excitement on social media when her music appeared on the Pose soundtrack, writing: “Celebrating #Pride with a look back at this touching scene in the groundbreaking TV series Pose… I am thrilled to be featured in the soundtrack of a show that spotlights the triumphs and trials of ‘80s queer and trans communities and culture. #Love is beautiful in all forms!”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Roberta Flack (@officialrobertaflack)

    Roberta Flack’s legacy as both a musical icon and a staunch ally to the LGBTQ+ community leaves an indelible mark on both the entertainment world and beyond.

  • Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe Spark Engagement Rumors After NAACP Image Awards Appearance

    Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe Spark Engagement Rumors After NAACP Image Awards Appearance

    Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe have once again sparked rumors about their relationship after a joint appearance at the NAACP Image Awards on February 22, reigniting engagement speculation that has swirled around the two for weeks.

    Erivo, who was nominated for Entertainer of the Year and Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her role in Wicked, arrived at the event alongside Waithe. Their appearance follows months of speculation about their romantic status, especially after Erivo was seen wearing a diamond ring at the 2025 Grammys. Although the ring was later confirmed not to be an engagement ring, the sighting fueled ongoing rumors about their private relationship.

    While neither Erivo nor Waithe has publicly confirmed their romantic connection, the two have been linked since at least 2020. Their relationship is believed to have begun after meeting at the 2018 Met Gala. In a 2021 interview with Variety, Waithe revealed that she had long been a fan of Erivo’s performance in The Color Purple before they met, and that they had “been vibing” ever since.

    Erivo has shared rare glimpses of their bond on social media, referring to Waithe as “perfection” in one of the few photos of the pair together on her Instagram feed. Over the years, the two have been spotted together at various high-profile events, including the BET Awards, the GLAAD Media Awards, and the Golden Globes, but they have kept their relationship mostly private.

    Their closeness has been particularly noticeable in recent years, coinciding with Waithe’s separation from ex-wife Alana Mayo, with their divorce finalized in 2021. Despite their low-key public presence, the two have shown unwavering support for each other, often seen cheering one another on at major events. Waithe was by Erivo’s side at the 2024 Wicked premiere, helped hold Erivo’s gown at the 2024 Tony Awards, and sat beside her at the 2025 Golden Globes and Grammys.

    Erivo has also expressed admiration for Waithe, often sharing heartfelt posts celebrating the writer and producer. For example, in one Instagram tribute to Waithe’s birthday, Erivo wrote a moving message expressing her respect and affection for her partner.

     

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    A post shared by Cynthia Erivo (@cynthiaerivo)

    Fans of the couple have continued to speculate about their relationship, but Erivo and Waithe have kept their personal lives out of the public eye. Their appearance at the NAACP Image Awards is just another example of their quiet but strong presence in each other’s lives.

    While they haven’t made any public declarations about the status of their relationship, their ongoing support for one another is undeniable. As their relationship continues to unfold under the radar, fans remain hopeful for more insight into their bond. Many are eagerly awaiting the possibility of an official announcement — or perhaps more clarity on that “not an engagement” ring — when Erivo takes the stage at the upcoming 2025 Oscars, where she is expected to complete her EGOT collection.

    Though the full extent of their relationship may remain a mystery, one thing is certain: Erivo and Waithe are a powerful representation of strong Black queer women in the entertainment world, and fans are fully supportive of their journey — wherever it may lead.