Fashion Week
BV on Style
BV on Style covers black style, urban fashion, and hot celebrity looks; everything the urban fashionista or fashionisto could want!
Filed under: Photos, Fashion News
It's that time of the year again. Last night, in a flurry of feathers, hair extensions, glitter and uncomfortable underwire, the Angels once again strutted half-dressed down a diamond-crusted runway in the annual over-the-top Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
Before a star-studded audience that included a tuxedo-clad Jay-Z, Dr. Dre and Keri Hilson, models Selita Ebanks, Chanel Iman and Sessilee Lopez, among others, worked the runway in lingerie outfits that weren't the sorts of things any woman in her right mind could or would wear under her clothes. But they were pretty to look at nonetheless!
Heidi Klum, who had a baby daughter just five weeks ago, opted for hosting the event in an elaborate dress-leaf corset costume instead of actually modeling the goods on the runway. 
Dominican-American model Lopez had fun with a green velvet holiday-themed lingerie set paired with matching boots.
Chanel Iman donned this racy lace bodysuit during the show.
You can catch the full event, which took place at New York's Lincoln Armory and featured a performance by the Black Eyed Peas, Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 10 p.m. Until then, tide yourself over by clicking through the fashion show pics.
http://xml.channel.aol.com/xmlpublisher/fetch.v2.xml?option=expand_relative_urls&dataUrlNodes=uiConfig,feedConfig,entry&id=779436&pid=779435&uts=1258736748 http://cdn.channel.aol.com/cs_feed_v1_6/csfeedwrapper.swf 10 Family Films
'Akeelah and the Bee'
Directed by Doug Atchison, this 2006 film stars Keke Palmer as a young girl from Los Angeles trying to make it to the National Spelling Bee. Reuniting again for third time are Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne, who play her mother and her mentor, respectively.
'Crooklyn'
Directed by Spike Lee in 1994, and starring Alfre Woodard and Delroy Lindo, is this vibrant semi-autobiographical portrait of a school teacher, her stubborn Jazz musician husband and their five kids living in Brooklyn during the '70s. Also starring in the film are Isaiah Washington, Vondie Curtis-Hall and RuPaul.
'Claudine'
Diahann Carroll received a best actress Oscar nomination for her role in this 1974 film about a black woman who tries to provide for her six children in Harlem while on welfare. Directed by John Berry, the film also starred James Earl Jones as her love interest, Roxie Roker and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. Curtis Mayfield wrote and produced the film's score and soundtrack, and the vocals were performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips.
'Lean on Me'
Morgan Freeman star in 1989's 'Lean on Me,' which was loosely based on the story of Joe Clark, a real-life inner-city high school principal in Paterson, NJ, whose school was at risk of being taken over by the state. This film's title refers to the 1972 Bill Withers song of the same name. Also starring in the film are Beverly Todd, Alan North, Robert Guillaume and the late Lynne Thigpen.
'Roots'
Probably the greatest African American miniseries aired on television, 'Roots' is a 1977 dramatization of author Alex Haley's family line, from ancestor Kunta Kinte's enslavement to his descendents' liberation. The series featured household names such John Amos, LeVar Burton, Ben Vereen, Louis Gossett Jr. , Edward Asner, Leslie Uggams and Cicely Tyson.
'School of Rock'
Jack Black scored a hit in this 2003 Richard Linklater film about a wannabe rock star in need of cash who poses as a substitute teacher at a prep school and tries to turn his class into a rock band. Also starring in the film are Mike White, Joan Cusack and Miranda Cosgrove of 'iCarly.'
'Sister Act'
Whoopi Goldberg starred in this 1992 comedy hit about a lounge singer who enters protective custody in a San Francisco convent after a mob boss puts her on his hit list. Also starring in the film are Maggie Smith, Kathy Najimy and young Lauryn Hill. The film was followed by a 1993 sequel, 'Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.'
'The Lion King' & 'The Incredibles'
Two of Disney's blockbuster animation films were the 1994 chart topping 'Lion King,' which is the highest grossing 2-D animation film of all time in the United States, and the 2004 computer-animated superhero film 'The Incredibles.' In 'Lion King,' a guilt-ridden lion cub flees into exile and abandons his identity as the future king after being tricked into thinking he killed his father, while 'The Incredibles' features a family of undercover superheroes forced into action to save the world.
'The Pursuit of Happyness'
Will Smith and his son Jaden scored a monster hit in this 2006 film, in which a struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional endeavor. Directed by Gabriele Muccino and also starring Thandie Newton, the film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner.
'The Wiz'
With an all-star cast that included Diana Ross, the late Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, and Ted Ross, this 1978 adaption of 'The Wizard of Oz' captured the essence of the African American experience.
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Filed under: Celebrity Style , Trends
Though underwear worn as outerwear was a huge trend on the Spring 2010 runways, several actresses, including Zoe Saldana, are jumping on the "visible bra" bandwagon a little early:
For a Prada book launch cocktail at the Prada store in Beverly Hills, the sultry actress accented a long, high-waisted maroon skirt with a simple sheer turquoise top that visibly revealed a nude-colored bra:
Stars have long been huge fans of the 'peek-a-boo bra' trend, with some like Teairra Marie going so far as to match their lace bra to their accessories:
But one must ask: Is this an alluring, classy look? Or should your undergarments simply stay where they were intended...under your clothes?
Find more Fashion Discussions on Claire's blog, The Fashion Bomb.
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Filed under: Photos, Fashion News
What's your reaction? My eyes, imagination and very soul are thoroughly refreshed by these images. Behold African beauties, Mey Bun, Rila Fukushima and Ai-li Wang, all of whom are awash in bold rich makeup and a masterful mix of European couture pieces and traditional African accessories. These lush visuals can be seen in the latest issue of D Mode magazine, based out of -- of all places -- Buenos Aires, Argentina. Kudos to the creative team behind this shoot: Laurean Ossorio (stylist), Bryan Zaragoza (makeup), Brian Buenaventura (hair) and photographers Herring & Herring. See more of these images after the jump, then let me know: are you as into these images as I am?
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Filed under: Celebrity Style
Melanie Fiona. The Canadian born R&B singer is at that brief stage in an artists career where she's not instantly recognizable but vaguely familiar. Her debut album, The Bridge, which is already racking up rave reviews is about to change that - soon. Born to Guyanese parents in Toronto, the 26 year old, found her way from Canada's inner city to Kanye Wests tour - where she led as his opening act all summer. Since then, Fiona's slowly been building buzz - and landing magazine features - for her eclectic, soulful singing style. Just as interesting is her style of dress, which is a hybrid between couture and casual. I grabbed her for a quick chit chat on my style questionnaire. I'm still smiling at her answers, which included her latest splurge (mortgage worthy Louboutin's) and a brand new word she created: Tom Goddess.A lot of us are still discovering your style. You float easily between Tom Boy and Glam Goddess? Which defines you most?Tom Godess!!! I never want to be too on the nose of any style, and I feel comfortable and confident in both worlds. They're my fashion alter egos!
How has transformed since you launched?
I feel like recording and preparing to launch as an artist has been a great learning experience about myself. I've come into my own identity, so I want my style to reflect who I am when people see me. I've naturally become a lot more fashion conscious about trends and new designers.
Are you loving the fashion aspect of being a celebrity, from red carpet to photo shoots?
Yeah definitely, although its a lot of work! I love getting dressed up and I love to perform. So I look at red carpet and photo shoots as performances in front of the cameras.
What designers have you been exposed to lately that you absolutely die for?
I LOVE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN!!! I recently did a Paper Magazine Cover Shoot for their 25th Anniversary, and I wore this amaaazing red a-line mod patterned dress for the spread. It was definitely a unique and standout piece! I felt great!
What's been your priciest wardrobe splurge since signing your deal?
They would have to be my Ruby Red Christian Louboutins... Almost 6 inches high!! I performed in them while on tour with Kanye West. Some might say they were a mortgage payment... I say, a great fashion investment. I feel like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz... These ruby slippers will take me all around the world!
Off stage - when you are just hanging out with friends and family - what are your favorite things to wear?
Comfy clothes...I'm a sucker for leggings and knit sweaters!
Melanie Fiona's new album, The Bridge, is available now on Amazon.
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Filed under: Celebrity Style , Fashion News
It's quite possible that the term "one of a kind" was crafted expressly for J. Alexander -- also known as Miss J, but best known as the outspoken judge on the CW's 'America's Next Top Model.' After all, how many boys from the Bronx grow up to become international fashion icons, beloved reality show judges and best-selling authors? Alexander's latest book, 'Follow the Model,' charts his journey from New York to Paris and back with lots of feel-good advice and a fashion dictionary thrown in for good measure. By the time you reach the end, you'll understand how Miss J single-handedly worked his way from messenger boy to a television personality as famous for his sexy legs as his sassy mouth. Of course, you have some questions for the fashion diva -- but we took care of that for you in this one-on-one Q&A. Check it out after the jump!
What inspired you to write this book?
I talk too much as it is, and I am a great storyteller. I thought telling stories would be great in a book about my journey. With a push from agent Nancy Josephson and a shove from agent Suzy Unger, we all made it happen!
You reveal a lot that your fans don't know about you. Was writing about your life therapeutic?
Maybe I revealed too much! In a way it was therapeutic. I got my mind to think about other things, other than designer ball gowns and the latest pair of this season's heels. It opened up a thought process of memories, which made me relax and smile.
I love little touches like the designer pronunciation guide and the guide to Karl Lagerfeld. What made you include these instead of doing a straight bio?
Because the average person outside of fashion who buys this book may not know who some of the latest designers are, let alone how to pronounce their names!
I was shocked to read that you once considered becoming an accountant. What made you think it was a good idea at the time?
My sister, who I idolized, Barbara Ann, who died of breast cancer, worked at an accounting firm. That is where I had my first job in Manhattan as a messenger. I was fascinated by calculators and key-punch machines. Calculators because of totaling up my future earnings and key-punch machines because the cards that came out of the machine reminded me of perforated leather jackets. Plus, I knew one day I would need to know how to manage my money and to make sure I get every penny owed and promised to me!
Ultimately, what do you think empowers us to unleash presence, poise and power?
Presence is when you enter the room. Poise is when you are standing there being photographed in the room. And power is owning the room.
'Follow the Model' is available on Amazon.
Read more from Zandile on The Blay Report!
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Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
- Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Fashionista Past - Diana Ross
Diana Ross has always wowed style watchers with her triumphant style. The singer and actresses' signature bouffant hair and body hugging, fashion-forward ensembles remain en vogue today. The Golden Globe winning, Oscar-nominated diva performed at the Costume Institute's Goddess exhibit for the cognoscenti in 2003 wearing a custom Gucci dress; she was featured in a MAC ad campaign in 2005 and, of course, was inspiration for Beyonce's character in the Academy Award-winning film Dreamgirls. (Photo: Frank Driggs Collection, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Fashionista Present - Andre Leon Talley
As Editor-At-Large at glossy fashion bible, VOGUE, Andre Leon Talley is the most recognized Black man in fashion. Talley has used his influence to promote some of fashion's newest stars and his influence to critique designers for the lack of models of color on the runway. Last year, he curated a retrospective of Oscar fashion exhibited during the Academy Awards; he authored 'A.L.T.: A Memoir' and 'A.L.T.:365 ' and was the inspirationbehind the Academy Award-nominated 'The Devil Wear Prada' character, Nigel. (Photo: Francois Durand, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Fasionista Future - Andre J
This bearded muse (yes, bearded) acquired international fame when he appeared on French VOGUE's cover last year with Estee Lauder model Carolyn Murphy. Not since RuPaul has a Black man wearing women's clothing shot to superstar status. While RuPaul was the first crossover pop singer, Andre "don't call me a drag queen" J stands crossover into mainstream fashion. Love him or hate him, he engenders a powerful response; in the least, he represents fashion's tenets of art and expression. (Photo: Bryan Bedder, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Model Past - Beverly Johnson
Beverly Johnson was the first Black model on the cover of VOGUE in 1974 after appearing first on GLAMOUR's cover in 1971. Johnson graced GLAMOUR's cover six more times within the next two years-- their circulation doubled after her first time. Coined the "supergirl next door," she reappeared on VOGUE's cover in 1975. As the first to also appear on the cover of French ELLE, Johnson later became an actress and singer and was honored by Oprah Winfrey in her Legends Ball special for her success. (Photo: Ron Galella, Ltd., WireImage.com) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Model Present - Naomi Campbell
Known for her athletic body and confident, always-imitated-never-duplicated stride, Campbell was one of the original members of the "supermodel" era in the early 1990s, becoming the first Black woman to appear on Vogue UK, Vogue Paris, Vogue Nippon and Time magazines. She's appeared on over 500 magazine covers, and released an album, two books and fragrances, appeared in film and television and championed great causes. She is currently writing for British GQ and in 2007, began scouting models in Kenya to open an agency there. (Photo: Francois Durand, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Model Future - Chanel Iman
Chanel Iman, the 5'10 American beauty currently on February 2008 cover of Teen Vogue, first appeared on VOGUE's cover in May 2007, featuring the newest, hottest faces. Signed to the Ford agency at 12, then third-place runner-up in Ford's Supermodel of the Year contest at 15, Iman surpassed colleagues two years ago when she debuted at New York Fashion Week walking for Anna Sui, Derek Lam, Marc Jacobs, and Proenza Schouler in her first season alone. A major fashion and beauty contract is certainly in the cards. (Photo: AOL) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Designer Past - Patrick Kelly
In the 1980s, iconic fashion designer Patrick Kelly launched a bold, colorful collection inspired by his Southern roots and often incorporated controversial messages into his designs to address racism. His clothing was such a hit that the Mississippi native became the first American to be inducted into the prestigious Chambre Syndicale, an elite organization for French designers. Since his death in 1990, Kelly's collection is still celebrated through exhibitions around the world. (Photo: Julio Donoso, Corbis) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Designer Present - Tracy Reese
Detroit native Tracy Reese is ranked as one of the most successful fashion designers today. The Parsons School of Design graduate launched her namesake ultra-feminine and vintage-inspired line initially at age 23, and then its sister line, Plenty in 2002. Reese now offers footwear, accessories and Plenty Home. With a flagship store in New York City's ultra-hip Meatpacking District and presently offering her tenth anniversary collection, it isno surprise that Reese is considered one of the best American designers today. (Photo: AOL) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Designer Future - Rachel Roy
Although Rachel Roy achieved socialite status for her chic ladylike designs, it is the array of sleek and elegant pieces in her line as well as acquiring major retail success in less than threeyears that helped her earn fashion fame. Roy already has quite the celebrity following: Sharon Stone, Cate Blanchett, Lucy Liu, Iman, Penelope Cruz, Jessica Simpson and Serena Williams are fans. After appearing on Oprah Winfrey's show twice, she is certainly the designer to watch. (Photo: Mat Szwajkos, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008 Fashion Trailblazers
Fashion Entrepreneur Present - Edward Wilkerson
Lafayette 148 New York's Design Director Edward Wilkerson is an avid traveler and passionate photographer. The former designer for Anne Klein, Calvin Klein and Donna Karan joined Lafayette 148 in 1998. Wilkerson's direction has led the designer's bridge line, (sizes 0-24) to become one of the top brands at Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. His travels continue to infuse a global aesthetic into the collection. The company's offices and his home are often featured in design magazines. (Photo: Hal Horowitz, WireImage.com)
Black History Month 2008
- Black History Month 2008
TV, Miss New York, Flava Flave and Omarosa-Cole
- Black History Month 2008
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- Black History Month 2008
Fashion, Rachel Roy
- Black History Month 2008
Art, Kehinde Wiley
- Black History Month 2008
Model, Chanel Iman
- Black History Month 2008
Politics, Adrian Fenty, Cory Brooks and Kwame Kilpatrick
Fenty is the 37-year-old mayor of DC. Prior to becoming mayor, he interned for DC delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. Cory Booker - The 38-year-old Newark mayor lived in a tent in front of one of Newark's worst housing projects and went on a 10-day hunger strike to protest drug dealing. Kwame Kilpatrick The 37-year-old mayor of Detroit is the youngest of the city. He was elected when he was only 31 years old. - Black History Month 2008
Farrah Gray
Gray became a millionaire at 14 selling his own pre-paid phone cards, homemade lotion. He was also the executive producer of a teen talk show and comedy show. The now 23-year-old multi-millionaire is the owner of Farr-Out Foods. The motivational speaker received an honorary doctorate from Allen University at age 21. - Black History Month 2008
Designers, Vanessa and Angela Simmons
- Black History Month 2008
Fashionistas
Andre JThis bearded muse (yes, bearded) acquired international fame when he appeared on French VOGUE's cover last year with Estee Lauder model Carolyn Murphy. Not since RuPaul has a Black man wearing women's clothing shot to superstar status. While RuPaul was the first crossover pop singer, Andre "don't call me a drag queen" J stands crossover into mainstream fashion. Love him or hate him, he engenders a powerful response; in the least, he represents fashion's tenets of art and expression. - Black History Month 2008
Fashion, Alek Wek
Author/handbag designer Alek Wek was the first Black cover girl on the American edition of ELLE magazine. Wek launched the WEK1933 handbag line in 2001, a collection inspired by her late father's briefcase and aptly named after the year he was born. Wek became a successful model after she fled the civil war in her native Sudan in 1991. After the release of her book, "Alek: From Sudanese Refugee to International Supermodel" she has become the "voice" of her native country, using her celebrity to bring international attention to the strife there.
Black History Month 2008
- Black History Month 2008
Film, Sydney Poitier
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Film, Ethel Waters
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Film, Melvin Van Peebles
(Sony Pictures Classics) - Black History Month 2008
Dance, Katherine Dunham
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TV, Bill Cosby
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx xxx xxx x x(Everett Collection) - Black History Month 2008
Art, Jean-Michel-Basquiat
(AP) - Black History Month 2008
Literature, Wells Brown Wheatley
(Getty Images/Library of Congress) - Black History Month 2008
Models, Beverly Johnson
Beverly Johnson was the first Black model on the cover of VOGUE in 1974 after appearing first on GLAMOUR's cover in 1971. Johnson graced GLAMOUR's cover six more times within the next two years -- their circulation doubled after her first time. Coined the "supergirl next door," she reappeared on VOGUE's cover in 1975. As the first to also appear on the cover of French ELLE, Johnson later became an actress and singer and was honored by Oprah Winfreyin her LegendsBall special for her success. (Ron Galella, Ltd., WireImage.com) - Black History Month 2008
Model, Iman
Iman was one of the first models to be successful in both print and runway in the 1970s and 1980s. After retiring from modeling, she launched a cosmetics line in 1994 to offer better make up options to women of color. She has also teamed up with Missy Elliott to create the Misdemeanor lipstick to benefit a non profit against domestic violence and is currently featured the 'Save a Child' campaign against HIV and AIDS. The Somalian-born beauty recently expanded her empire by launching an accessories and jewelry line. (Reuters) - Black History Month 2008
Designer, Patrick Kelly
In the 1980s, iconic fashion designer Patrick Kelly launched a bold, colorful collection inspired by his Southern roots and often incorporated controversial messages into his designs to address racism. His clothing was such a hit that the Mississippi native became the first American to be inducted into the prestigious Chambre Syndicale, an elite organization for French designers. Since his death in 1990, Kelly's collection is still celebrated through exhibitions around the world. (Julio Donoso, Corbis)
Black History Month 2008
- Black History Month 2008
Music - Prince
Though his career began in the 1970s, the man legally known as Prince Roger Nelson is virtually the only black artist who continues to push the envelope with every music project released. Never complacent with the current state of the music industry, the Minnesota native made history by going up against the record label system and winning his freedom from iron clad contracts he likened to slavery. From changing his name to reinventing his musical stylings, the pint-sized musical genius was also one of the first major superstars to embrace the power of digital media. (Photo: Kevin Mazur, WireImage.com) - Black History Month 2008
Film - Angela Bassett
The Emmy and Academy Award nominated thespian is an alum from the prestigious Yale School of Drama. The former beauty salon receptionist broke into acting with regional theatre work in the mid-1980s before a thriving film career took shape. "I really believe that what I do as an actress is my God-given talent," the Olay spokeswoman has said. "This is my calling not my career." Bassett's portrayal of biographical characters, notably Tina Turner, has made her stand out amongst other actresses of her time. For her exceptional work in 'What's Love Got to Do with It,' the Harlem, New York native was the first African-American to win the Best Actress Golden Globe Awards for a Musical or Comedy in 1993.(Photo: Peter Kramer, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008
Film - Denzel Washington
The debonair Mount Vernon, New York native holds the distinction of being the only living black Academy Award winner to win honors in both acting categories. With a degree in Drama and Journalism from Fordham University, Washington has portrayed a diverse array of characters on the big screen and small since his professional acting debut in 1977. The 'Training Day' and 'Glory' star has expanded his role in Hollywood with producing and directing inrecent years.(Photo: Piyal Hosain, Fotos International, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008
TV - Mara Brock Akil and Shonda Rhimes
Two black sistas are creators and executive producers of two hit primetime television series and their spin-offs. With 'Girlfriends' and its spawn 'The Game,' Brock-Akil, a former journalism student, has the black sitcom industry on lock with her engaging storylines revolving around successful blacks and their sometimes awkward relationship dynamics. With the ABC ratings draw 'Grey's Anatomy' and its follow-up 'Private Practice,' audiences have proven insatiable when it comes to Rhimes' take on the medical profession. (Photos: Arnold Turner, WireImage.com, 2) - Black History Month 2008
Film - Robi Reed, Kasi Lemmons, Tracey, Edmonds
As one of the most prominent casting agents in the film business, Primetime Emmy Award winning Reed has put black faces in more than 50 major films. For her latest film, 'Talk to Me,' Kasi Lemmons garnered critical acclaim and major accolades. Nothing less should be expected from the prized director, who first mesmerized filmgoers with the beguiling drama 'Eve's Bayou' in 1997. The former wife of music super producer Kenneth"Babyface" Edmonds, may have become tabloid fodder with her "marriage" to Eddie Murphy but has flexed much muscle in Hollywood as a producer of movies such as 'Soul Food,' 'Light It Up,' 'Josie and the Pussycats' and 'Who's Your Caddy.' (Photos: Retna, The Bible Experience, WireImage.com) - Black History Month 2008
Music - Russell Simmons
The man who is credited with virtually shaping the industry of hip-hop, Russell Simmons and his sharp business acumen has transcended the music business (Def Jam Records), film ('Krush Groove'), television ('Def Poetry Jam'), the fashion industry (Phat Farm), finance (Rush Card), literature ('Do You!') and most recently political activism (Hip Hop Action Network). Beyond music, hip-hop lives through the fiber of everything the 50-year-old Queens, NY native does. (Photo: Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008
Politics - General William E. "Kip" Ward
As commander of the newly created U.S. Africa Command (Africom), Ward, the four-star general is charged with coordinating military support for diplomatic and development programs ina strategically important, yet often overlooked region of the world. (Photo: Caleb Jones, AP) - Black History Month 2008
Politics - Senator Barack Obama
The junior U.S. Senator from Illinois and a 2008 Democratic presidential candidate is the only African-American currently in the Senate and only the fifth African-American ever to be electedto the Senate. With his mixed race background and message of change he is campaigning on a platform of hope to help unite the United States. (Photo: Scott Olson, Getty Images) - Black History Month 2008
Technology - Lonnie Johnson
The rocket scientist and nuclear engineer invented the Super Soaker water gun in 1991, which became a top-selling toy with more than 40 million sold and $200 million in sales. Now, the self-described tinkerer has turned his sights on solar energy technology that would convert solar heat into power.(Photo: John Bazemore, AP) - Black History Month 2008
Business - Bob Johnson
Johnson launched Washington, D.C.-based Black Entertainment Television (BET) in 1980 with a loan from cable executive John Malone. BET became the first African-American-owned company to be publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange in 1991. The Hickory, Miss. native became the first Black billionaire in the United States, when he sold the company to Viacom in 2000 for $3 billion. He left the company in 2006 and created RLJ Companies Inc., a portfolio of companies in the financial services, real estate, hospitality, professional sports, film production, automotive and gaming industries, which include the NBA Charlotte Bobcats, Our Stories Films and Urban Trust Bank. (Photo: BET)
Martin Luther King Jr.
- Martin Luther King Jr.
American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., (1929 - 1968), addresses crowds during the March on Washington at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., where he gave his 'I Have A Dream' speech. (Central Press/Getty Images)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King gestures and shouts to his congregation at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Ga. on April 30, 1967 as he urges America to repent and abandon what he called its "tragic, reckless adventure in Vietnam." (AP Photo)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King is pictured at an integration rally in Montgomery, Ala., May 21, 1961. (AP Photo/Horace Cort)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King is embraced by his wife, Coretta Scott King, during a news conference at Harlem Hospital in New York. The Sept. 30, 1958 file photo was taken as he recovered from a stab wound following an attack by a woman. (AP)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King displays his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize medal in Oslo, Norway, Dec. 10, 1964. King was honored for promoting the principle of non-violence in the civil rights movement. (AP Photo)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King sits for a police mug shot after his arrest for directing a city-wide boycott of segregated buses. (Photo by Don Cravens/Time Life Pictures/Getty Images)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
The Rev. Ralph Abernathy, right, and Bishop Julian Smith, left, flank King during a civil rights march in Memphis, Tenn., on March 28, 1968. (AP Photo/Jack Thornell)
- Martin Luther King Jr.
King and Malcolm X smile for photographers on March 26, 1964, in Washington D.C. They shook hands after King announced plans for "direct action" protests if Southern senators filibustered against the civil rights bill. (AP Photo/Henry Griffin)
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