As artists and creatives, there are moments when reclaiming your creative space is essential. This necessary autonomy has allowed Bryson Tiller to thrive again in his element. “Young Tiller” has been revealing his true personality through his latest self-titled album, which features hits like “Ciao!” and “Whatever She Wants.” However, it took a great deal of time and reflection to get to a place where he could maximize his artistry.

When initially creating his 2020 album Anniversary, he found that he was coming back to himself and curating a sound that was all his own. This was evident in the creation of tracks such as “Like Clockwork,” which became a channel for him to express himself freely and true to himself.

He opened up to EBONY about his touring experience as he navigates social anxiety with the drive to gain full control of his confidence. “When I started in 2015, I couldn’t grasp that concept. It didn’t make sense to me that people were coming out to see me. It felt like a talent show more than a concert. I was going out there thinking it was a talent show and I had to put on a show. I think that was hindering my performance,” shared Tiller. He continued, “Even when I was making the Anniversary album, I was a little unsure and a little nervous. At that moment, I just reclaimed it. I was like this is my confidence. I’m not letting anybody take that from me. I’m gonna keep strengthening it for the years to come and that was in 2020 through 2021.”

“Now, we are in 2024 and I feel like my confidence is bulletproof.”

Bryson Tiller

In releasing Bryson Tiller, the singer tells EBONY that this time, he desires to challenge and dismiss preconceived notions about his identity through his music, as people often have a skewed perception of who he should be. “As a misconception that I like to take hiatuses, which isn’t true, I only ever took one hiatus. I guess people consider one or two years between an album release a hiatus. It’s not at all, it’s just me. I can’t just make an album the next year after, and people always think I disappear.”

It’s safe to say that he is in a realm where he is pushing his boundaries and persona in all aspects. Regarding the album cover art, Tiller delved deeper beyond his love for cypherpunk and Sci-Fi. It symbolizes his commitment to constructing something resilient that transcends the opinions and criticisms of others, embodying a message of strength and resilience.

“One thing that I always heard was ‘Bryson Tiller is never gonna top this, he’s never gonna top that.’ So, I decided to work on something that I knew was going to be stronger than what anybody had to say about any of that. I know the time will tell in the end. Building something some people say that the cover looks a little scary and that was the intention,” he states.

In this new era, Tiller wants more than to be taken seriously; he wants to affirm that he’s playing by his own rules. This also contributed to his choices in the album’s cover art selection. “I want him to look a bit intimidating. I wanted people to be asked to look him dead in the face and tell them that he suck. There’s a lot of bigger things brewing in the background that people just don’t even know about, but they will see in the future,” Tiller tells EBONY.

As figures in the music industry, it goes without saying that anything can happen at any given time. However, it’s important to remain flexible and committed to the pivot to keep up your own momentum. When asked about the recent rap beef that unfolded on the day he released his album, some suggested it might overshadow his release. However, as a true hip hop lover, Bryson expressed excitement about witnessing artists engaging in their craft, emphasizing his admiration for their contributions to the genre while he’s in his own lane himself. 

“At the end of the day, that’s hip hop. This is R&B and you can’t overshadow it. I don’t care what you do, I don’t care who you diss—whatever you say, you’re not overshadowing anything because I can name 20 beautiful women who are going to be listening to this for the next couple of months straight. So with that being said, my music is also for women and for men who love women.”

Bryson reveals that he struggled with his mental health for years from 2015 to 2020, dealing with imposter syndrome and failing to recognize in himself what others saw. It wasn’t until his grandmother passed away that he was compelled to confront his reflection and see himself through her loving eyes, as she had been his guiding force and source of strength throughout his upbringing.

“I’m only going get better. I’m only going to collaborate with more people. A lot of people tend to forget that I still know how to sing and rap. Right now, it’s about working with the right people that can get me to write the right songs. I don’t need to do it by myself; I don’t need to prove anything. I’ve already proved that I could do it by myself and I got a wall full of plaques saying I did it.”

Welcome to the weekend! Join us for the newest EBONY Weekend Playlist, featuring the freshest releases from New Music Friday that are making waves across the board.

Whether you’re on the road or deep in conversation, these tracks will set the tone for an unforgettable weekend. As we kick off a new month, be sure to tune in and soak up these vibes. Let’s make this weekend one for the books!

Nicki Minaj surprises fans with a remix of “FTCU,” featuring powerhouse collaborations with Travis Scott, Chris Brown and Sexyy Red, igniting excitement across the music industry. Lucky Daye is back with the release of his latest single, showcasing his signature blend of soulful melodies and innovative soundscapes.

Drake makes waves in the rap world by releasing a highly anticipated response record amidst ongoing beef with Kendrick Lamar, Metro Boomin, and other heavyweights in the industry, igniting fierce debate and anticipation among fans and critics alike.

Drake “Push Ups”

Drake’s highly anticipated diss record finally hits the airwaves, featuring a sly nod to diplomacy with the closing line, “I tried to keep everything peachy,” adding a touch of irony to the intense lyrical warfare.

Nick Minaj Feat. Travis Scott, Chris Brown, Sexyy Red “FTCU (SLEEZEMIX)“

With her tour triumphantly behind her, Nicki Minaj surprises fans by dropping the remix to “FTCU,” adding an extra layer of excitement to her already stellar year in music.

Lucky Daye “HERicane”

Lucky Daye mesmerizes audiences with the stunning visuals accompanying his hit single “HERicane,” further solidifying the song’s status as a soulful anthem for modern romance.

Lola Brooke, Dennis Daughter(Deluxe Version)  

Lola Brooke captivates audiences with the deluxe version of her project “Dennis Daughter,” offering an expanded and enriched musical experience that showcases her versatile talent and compelling storytelling.

Chingy “NuBeginnings”

Chingy brings a fresh perspective to the scene with his latest single, centered on themes of new beginnings. It offers listeners a revitalizing and uplifting musical journey.

Isaiah Falls “Florida Baby”

Isaiah Falls’ latest song, celebrating his Florida roots, serves as a poignant tribute to the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Sunshine State, showcasing his deep connection to its landscapes and rhythms.

Inayah, Wait, There’s More 

Inayah unveils her album “Wait, There’s More,” marking the dawn of a new era for her artistry, promising listeners a captivating journey through her evolution as a musician.

Skilla Baby “Free Big Meech”

Skilla Baby pays homage to Big Meech with his latest release, a powerful song that captures the essence of Meech’s legacy and influence in the rap game.

Vedo “Your Love Is All I Need”

Vedo dazzles fans with his latest R&B single, delivering soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners, solidifying his position as a rising star in the genre.

Chicken P “Aint Runnin Out“

Chicken P continues to ride the wave of excitement following his hit song “Mode Again” with the release of a new single, showcasing his versatility and keeping fans eagerly anticipating his next musical moves.

Inayah discovered her passion for singing at the age of two and penned her first song by the age of ten. While she always harbored ambitions of success, she never anticipated the magnitude of her achievements. From captivating audiences with viral covers of Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up” to gracing the big screen alongside Tyler Perry, her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

With her debut album Wait, There’s More, she has come full circle. Transitioning from her days at a jingle company, her talent t has caught the attention of industry heavyweights such as Tyler Perry and Jamie Foxx. Inayah tells EBONY “I think the biggest part of it all is knowing that it all comes from God, that’s first and foremost. It’s all been the biggest blessing that I could ever dream of. I’ve always known that I’d be in this position, but I just never really knew how it would come about.”

In addition to her music career, Inayah has found success in acting with a recurring role as Trina on the BET+ show Ms. Pat Show after the comedian reached out to her via DM after discovering her through viral videos. Initially hesitant, Inayah considered passing on the opportunity, but she decided to embrace the chance to showcase her talent on screen. “She said, ‘Hey, I got this show that I think you will be a great addition to’ and I initially wasn’t going to be a part of it. I initially was going to turn it down.”

Maintaining relationships is paramount in the entertainment industry, and Inayah acknowledges Ms. Pat’s pivotal role in her career trajectory. Inayah credits Ms. Pat for her introduction to Tyler Perry, which ultimately led to the opportunity to collaborate with the esteemed filmmaker. “She told him, I got this girl and she’s really good who can sing and she’s funny too. I think you should consider her for your next movie and sure enough, he took our word for it. I was on a plane the following week.”

In discussing the inspiration behind her project Wait, There’s More, Inayah reflects on her journey of rediscovery as an artist. Following her previous project, she embarked on a personal postpartum journey after welcoming her second son. With Wait, There’s More, she aimed to reconnect with her artistic essence and reclaim her confidence, delving back into her creative prowess with renewed energy.

“I chose that name because it’s like, Wait there’s still so much more to me. I still have so much more to offer. I still have so many things to think about and so much to write about. There’s so much more so that’s why I fell in love with Wait, There’s More just sounds so necessary to where I am in my life and my artistry. So I got back into studio confidence on 1000, back in my bag, the pen was on fire.” She says.

Navigating the entertainment industry can be challenging, but Inayah emphasizes the importance of authenticity. Reflecting on her own experiences, she recalls struggling with confidence as a teenage girl and feeling the urge to reinvent herself to fit in and be accepted.

“Who I am in my adult life, I just want to hug the younger me so bad, just so I can tell her Hey, you’ve always been enough. You have always been that girl, you ain’t never need nobody else’s approval. I’m standing on that so tough now as an adult and in my artistry that nobody else can waver this confidence that I have in myself and my music.”

Since their rise in popularity, music videos have served as a channel for artists to push the boundaries of their creative expression and take fans to places they’ve never imagined.

Each year, Earth Month is a moment to cherish being alive and take in the wonder of our environment. As we honor EBONY’s Earth Warriors, these music videos stand as a powerful testament to the impact artists can make in honoring the beauty of nature. By showcasing the splendor of natural landscapes and underscoring our interdependence with the Earth, they ignite a sense of stewardship in viewers. From SZA’s “Good Days,” where tranquil outdoor scenes set the stage for deep reflection and self-discovery, to LL Cool J’s “Paradise,” whisking us away to sun-kissed beaches and verdant tropical forests, each video paints a vivid picture of our connection to the Earth’s wonders. These captivating visuals enhance the songs and serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of preserving and cherishing our planet.

TLC, “Waterfalls”

In TLC’s “Waterfalls” music video, the breathtaking imagery of cascading waterfalls and lush natural landscapes serves as a powerful homage to Mother Nature, seamlessly intertwining with the song’s message about the consequences of risky behavior.

Jhené Aiko, “None Of Your Concern”

SZA, “Good Days”

In SZA’s “Good Days” music video, serene outdoor settings and ethereal natural landscapes provide a captivating backdrop, offering an ode to Mother Nature that mirrors the song’s themes of self-discovery and inner peace.

LL Cool J Feat. Amerie, “Paradise”

In LL Cool J’s “Paradise” music video, the scenes of beaches and lush forests take you on a tropical journey to remember as it pays homage to Mother Nature, evoking a sense of paradise on earth that complements the song’s themes of escape and serenity.

Amerie, “Why Don’t We Fall In Love”

Amerie’s “Why Don’t We Fall in Love” music video, filmed in Brooklyn, captures the essence of a beautiful summer day. It showcases vibrant city streets and greenery, seamlessly meshing urban life with Mother Nature’s beauty.

Snoop Dogg Feat. Pharrell, “Beautiful”

In Snoop Dogg’s “Beautiful” music video featuring Pharrell, stunning scenes of pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes showcase the beauty of Mother Nature, adding a serene backdrop to the song’s laid-back vibe.

Khalid, “Location”

In Khalid’s “Location” music video, the stunning cinematography captures the essence of Mother Nature. Scenes of desert landscapes and serene sunsets intertwine with the song’s themes of longing and connection, creating a visual masterpiece that resonates with the beauty of the natural world.

Keyshia Cole, “Should’ve Let You Go”

In Keyshia Cole’s “Should’ve Let You Go” music video, the setting of a sandy beach with crashing waves and golden sunsets provides a picturesque backdrop, highlighting the power and serenity of Mother Nature amidst themes of heartache and empowerment.

Mary J Blige, “Everything”

In Mary J. Blige’s “Everything” music video, sweeping vistas of majestic mountains and lakes serve as a breathtaking backdrop, seamlessly integrating the beauty of Mother Nature into the song’s heartfelt message of love and devotion.

Vanessa Williams shattered barriers by becoming the first African American woman to win the prestigious title of “Miss America.” Since then, she has been widely acclaimed for her remarkable presence across stage, screen, and the music industry, leaving an enduring legacy in entertainment. With over 212 million digital streams and eight albums to her name, including six R.I.A.A.-certified gold or platinum hits, her legacy is etched in gold. Not to mention her impressive 13 Grammy Award nominations, showcasing her undeniable talent and versatility in categories like Best New Artist and Record of the Year.

Transitioning into the next phase of her iconic career, Vanessa Williams is back for a triumphant return to the music industry. Launching her own recording label, Mellian Music, she’s taking creative control and charting her own path in the industry. After a 15-year hiatus since the release of her last album The Real Thing, fans eagerly anticipate her comeback album, set to drop later this year. The excitement mounts as her first single, “Legs (Keep Dancing),” debuts on streaming platforms on April 26th, signaling a resurgence of the iconic Vanessa Williams sound.

With each step, Vanessa Williams continues to captivate audiences with her talent and determination. As she embarks on this new chapter with music she continues to solidify her status as a true legend in the industry

Kem, a maestro of timeless melodies, continues to captivate audiences across generations with his soulful reflections on love and relationships. His performances of classics like “Love Calls,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” and “Share My Life” inspire audiences to sing along at every show.

Recently, Kem graced the stage at Yaamava’ Theater, which is located at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino in Highland, CA. This three-year-old tribal-owned resort offers stunning mountain vistas, and delectable dining experiences at ‘The Pines Steakhouse’ which is a 5-star restaurant and casino entertainment, making it an ideal getaway destination. With a series of concerts featuring artists like Busta Rhymes and Ne-yo, Kem drew a packed house, adding his magic to the vibrant atmosphere.

Kem’s debut album, Kemistry, remains a timeless classic, known for both its captivating songs and the remarkable story behind its creation. Financing the album on an American Express credit card, Kem’s journey embodies perseverance and dedication, adding another layer of depth to the album’s enduring legacy.

Kem shares with EBONY “With the help of my pen manager Toya Hankins, and a host of believers in the Motor City in Detroit, it was just a Detroit hustle selling that CD literally out the trunk of my car. That record was a lifetime of dreaming a lifetime of trying to break into the industry. All of my efforts culminated with the Kemistry album.”

Kem’s journey during the creation of Kemistry was influenced by personal struggles with addiction and homelessness. The music became his beacon of hope, guiding him through dark times and serving as the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel—an ever-present reminder of the brighter future he was striving to attain.

He explains that his journey influenced his music today. “It wasn’t until I aligned my dreams with my faith and got around some people who knew how to navigate the problems that I was dealing with. They showed me how to live and I’m grateful for that. I don’t regret any of it. My music is formed by those experiences. Our lives are formed, not only by the good stuff that happens to us, but it’s informed by others by the dark times, and the challenges that we have to overcome, to make us who we are.”

After two decades in the music industry, Kem reflects on his ability to resonate with audiences across generations, creating music that transcends time and appeals to listeners from all walks of life. “I think that authenticity and transparency are things that keep my music resonating with folks over the generations and are and I appreciate that and collaborations with cats like Wiz Khalifa, Rick Ross, and Snoop those they don’t hurt. So I’m grateful for all the people that my music has been allowed to touch.”

“I Can’t Stop Loving You” stands as a testament to Kem’s enduring legacy, delving into the repercussions of infidelity and its profound impact not only on himself but also on his entire family. Through his heartfelt lyrics, Kem explores the devastation caused by his actions, creating a timeless record that continues to resonate with listeners, capturing the complexities of love and loss. “The pain that I caused made me sit back for a minute and be reflective and I think “I Can’t Stop Loving You” is probably the biggest record outside of “Love Calls”, I think the songs that are the most authentic and the most transparent are the ones that resonate with people the most.”

In his memoir “Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption” Kem delves into the overarching theme of self-overcoming, emphasizing the importance of moving past personal obstacles and overcoming inner darkness. “It’s trusting God to clean house and help others. Once you get to the other side of your pain, you have an obligation, responsibility, and privilege to help pull other people out. That’s the foundational mindset that went into writing.”

This April, EBONY aims to raise awareness around environmental and sustainability concerns within the Black community and beyond. Through a selection of songs from iconic artists like Sade to Childish Gambino, this playlist is a powerful platform to amplify voices who have boldly advocated for positive change through song.

The tracks included speak directly to the urgency of addressing environmental challenges and promoting a more sustainable future down to social issues within our community.

To name a few, Michael Jackson’s “Earth Song” poignantly reflects on the devastation caused by environmental destruction whereas Marvin Gaye’s “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)” speaks on the state of the planet and calls for mercy and compassion towards the environment. As Black artists often use their craft to bring life to causes important to them, these songs and many others serve as anthems for the Earth Warriors of today.

Upon taking a deep dive into these tunes, the hope is that the melodies and lyrics will inspire action and spark meaningful conversations within the Black community about how we care for our world. A collective commitment to protecting our planet and ensuring a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations requires different levels of action needed; let these songs start you on your way to sustainability.

Michael Jackson, “Earth Song” 

In Michael Jackson’s song “Earth Song,” he addresses environmental issues. One specific lyric, “What have we done to the world? Look what we’ve done,” highlights the devastating impact of human activity on the Earth’s ecosystems and serves as a call to action for environmental stewardship.

Childish Gambino, “Feels Like Summer”

Childish Gambino’s “Feels Like Summer” subtly touches on environmental issues, hinting at the looming threat of climate change and its impact on the seasons. One specific lyric, “Every day gets hotter than the one before,” alludes to the escalating temperatures caused by global warming, underscoring the urgency of addressing environmental concerns.

Louis Armstrong, “What a Beautiful World” 

Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” doesn’t explicitly address environmental issues, but its themes of appreciation for nature and beauty can resonate with environmental stewardship. A specific lyric, “I see trees of green, red roses too,” highlights the beauty of the natural world, inviting listeners to cherish and protect the environment.

Sade, “Pearls” 

Sade’s song “Pearls” subtly touches on the exploitation of natural resources and its impact on vulnerable communities. Sade sings, “There’s a woman in Somalia, scraping for pearls by the roadside.” It highlights the harsh reality faced by those living in impoverished regions where environmental degradation contributes to economic hardship and social injustice.

Marvin Gaye, “Mercy Mercy Me(The Ecology)” 

Marvin Gaye’s “Mercy, Mercy Me (The Ecology)” expresses concern about pollution and its consequences on the planet. One specific lyric, “Fish full of mercury,” highlights the contamination of marine life and the harmful effects of industrial pollution on ecosystems.

Mereba, “Heatwave” 

Mereba’s “Heatwave” confronts the impact of climate change and rising temperatures. The lyric, “Trees swaying in the heatwave, pollen dancing in the air,” vividly portrays the effects of environmental changes on nature and human health.

2Pac, “Changes” 

While 2Pac’s “Changes” primarily addresses social and political issues, its themes of inequality and systemic injustice can intersect with environmental concerns, as marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental harm. 2Pac raps, “We gotta start makin’ changes, learn to see me as a brother instead of two distant strangers,” reflecting the call for societal transformation and unity, which can also extend to collective action for environmental justice.

Kendrick Lamar, “Alright”

Kendrick Lamar‘s “Alright” includes themes of resilience and hope amidst adversity, which resonates with the need for environmental justice and sustainability. The lyric, “We gon’ be alright,” serves as a mantra of empowerment and collective action.

The O’Jays, “This Air I Breathe”

The O’Jays’ “This Air I Breathe” explores the importance of clean air and the consequences of pollution. The iconic group sings the line “Polluted skies, it’s hard to breathe,” and it highlights the detrimental effects of air pollution on human health.

Stevie Wonder, “The Secret Life Of Plants”

Stevie Wonder‘s “The Secret Life of Plants” delves into humanity’s interconnectedness with nature and the need for its preservation. Stevie sings, “Now I understand the secret of the soil” as it reflects on the profound wisdom and symbiotic relationship between humans and the natural world, urging listeners to respect and nurture the planet.

The first weekend of Coachella is always unforgettable and this year was no different. With Coachella’s reputation as one of the country’s biggest music festivals, the yearly event attracts people from all over. As weekend 2 approaches, anticipation builds for headliners like Tyler, the Creator, Doja Cat, No Doubt and Lana Del Ray, along with over 100 other artists at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA.

Reflecting on the highlights of weekend one, the festival delivered iconic moments. The bar is definitely high but here’s what went down at Coachella so far:

Tyler, the Creator Shares a Moment with “Uncle” Charlie Wilson

Tyler, the Creator’s set was elevated by special guest appearances from Charlie Wilson, A$AP Rocky, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis, who joined him to perform their collaborative songs. The highlight of the performance came when Tyler and Charlie Wilson shared the stage for a rendition of “Earfquake,” creating an unforgettable moment for the audience.

Tems Bring out Wizkid and Justin Bieber to Perform “Essence”

Tems made waves at Coachella when she brought out Wizkid and Justin Bieber to perform their hit track “Essence,” which dominated the summer of 2021. This collaboration created an electrifying atmosphere, showcasing the power of their collective talent and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Ice Spice Previews a New Song

Ice Spice not only brought the essence of New York to the Coachella stage but also treated the audience to a preview of a new song. The track samples Sean Paul’s “Gimmie the Light,” adding a fresh twist to her performance and exciting fans with a glimpse into her evolving sound.

Victoria Monét Hits Bold Dance Moves and Makes Even Bolder Statements

Fresh off her Grammy wins, Victoria Monét made her Coachella debut, captivating the crowd with a vibrant performance that transported them to Jamaica. Incorporating dance routines set to Mad Cobra’s “Flex” and Sister Nancy’s “Bam Bam,” she infused the stage with infectious energy. Amidst the celebration, Monét also used her platform to advocate for peace, urging listeners to “stop the war” and emphasizing the importance of thinking big.

Will Smith to Performs “Men in Black” Alongside J. Balvin

J. Balvin’s set took a nostalgic turn as he brought out Will Smith, transporting the audience back in time with a memorable performance of “Men in Black.” The surprise collaboration added an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia to the Coachella experience, delighting fans with a blast from the past.

Jhene Aiko and Big Sean Give Twenty88 Feels Onstage

During Jhené Aiko’s set, she brought out her child’s father and her Twenty88 groupmate to perform their hit track “Beware.” The surprise appearance added an extra layer of depth to her performance, showcasing the chemistry between the two artists and delighting fans with a memorable moment.

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Doja Cat Closes Coachella on a High Note

Doja Cat left a lasting impression as she closed out the final night of Coachella weekend one, showing her versatility by focusing on rap hits during her set. While omitting tracks like “Kiss Me More” and “Say So,” she brought out 21 Savage, Teezo Touchdown, and A$AP Rocky, demonstrating her command of the stage and leaving the audience in awe with her dynamic performance.

Toni Braxton and Cedric the Entertainer’s upcoming tour, “Love & Laughter,” is set to be a remarkable fusion of talent and friendship. Despite their different realms of entertainment, the two have shared a longstanding friendship that dates back years. Now, they’re bringing their unique gifts together for an unforgettable experience on stage.

Toni’s mesmerizing voice, known for its soulful power, will undoubtedly captivate audiences, drawing them into the essence of her music. Meanwhile, Cedric’s comedic genius promises to add a whole new dimension to the show, infusing each performance with infectious laughter and joy.

The synergy between Toni Braxton and Cedric The Entertainer on stage is bound to create magic as they seamlessly blend their respective worlds into one captivating spectacle. Audiences can anticipate a night filled with soul-stirring melodies, laughter, and a genuine sense of connection as these two icons come together to celebrate love, laughter and the enduring power of friendship.

Toni Braxton and Cedric The Entertainer join EBONY for a conversation about their co-headling tour at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas that starts April 27th for seven nights ending in June.

EBONY: What sparked the initial discussion between you, as longtime friends, to embark on the Love & Laughter tour together?

Cedric the Entertainer: Our kids used to date when they were much younger, were teenagers and couldn’t drive. We, as parents, would drive to each other’s homes. Of course, while they were visiting, we would sit around kicking in and drink a little wine, start talking, start laughing, sharing stories. So that built our camaraderie and then the idea of the show came out that Vegas was looking for something different. Our managers both found out about it. For us when we were asked, it was something different. It felt right, we love hanging out together. It’s gonna be very special to people for that very reason.

What was the inspiration behind choosing the name “Love & Laughter” for your tour?

Cedric the Entertainer: We are in a time when the world is so full of negativity that these are the two quality things that often bind us together. Love and a good laugh are usually when people can share and we let everything else go, and that’s the purpose of this tour. The beautiful songs, the music that allows us to look at each other and see that spirit and feel that spirit about that. Also, of course, when you laugh with someone, everything else doesn’t matter, so that’s what we’re trying to celebrate with these shows and the spirit of this show.

Can people expect any new music from Toni Braxton anytime soon?

Toni Braxton: I have a new single coming out. I haven’t picked it yet. La Reid and I have been working on finding out. He’s been helping me on this project. So the boys are back in town, and the Get Fresh crew is back in full effect. We have three or four songs. We’re just going to pick one for the single.

What are your thoughts on Burna Boy’s sampling of “He Wasn’t Man Enough” in his song “Last Last,” with claims suggesting that you receive 60% of the track?

Toni Braxton: I think the 60 percent is probably shared. Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins wrote it. He produced it as well, the writer who wrote it with him and myself so he probably had to give away 60 percent of it to get it. It comes from the songwriter since I didn’t write that song. I get royalty and residuals because I’m singing on it. I didn’t get 60 percent, but he probably had to give away 60% of it.

What aspect of co-headlining together, blending music and comedy on stage, excites you the most?

Toni Braxton: It’s very Sonny and Cher and Marie Osmond, is like a variety show in the sense that we come out on stage together, because I don’t want to give it all the way. It’s about six or seven acts. We do a bit together but we haven’t decided if he’s gonna go to his magnificent jokes or me singing. Some last-minute things were working out. It’s so clever. It’s not like, oh, I go on stage first, and then Cedric come out and we say goodnight. No, it’s not like that. It’s a real show.

Cedric The Entertainer: We’ve got a great, wonderful, creative director who’s working with us to make it very Vegas from lights to dancers. We do plan to spend time on stage together, we’re going to do funny little bits. It’ll be this idea that I will sing a little bit. Toni, she got some little one-liners. We want to give people something they expect but not what they expect, right? We do want to let people know that we’re both fully rounded human beings that you know are not like the monolithic idea of what you think we are right and that’s the thing that we love about each other

Toni Braxton: He’s being modest because Cedric is a triple threat. I should say a quiet threat because he dances too. We know he can make you laugh. We know he can act but this man could sing. It’s like Luther meets Barry. I didn’t know he could sing.

How do you go about preparing your material for comedy shows, particularly for a tour of this scale? Additionally, what continues to inspire you after many years in the industry?

Cedric The Entertainer: You know, the thing about comedy is I’m an observational comedy. So it’s always something going on in life and you just got to take these little slices of life and take them and look for the absurdity and keep finding these moments. I’ve learned more to share those things that are real to you that happen in life and I think that these things end up being very common with folks. Since I am an observational comedian, I’m able to hit on topics that are in the news and stuff like that without being political or being one-sided about stuff. Those are the things I’m planning to have fun with. Everybody’s on that ozempic right now, it doesn’t work for me, I don’t know why I’ve been taking it for three years.