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The Rock Ballerina: Kimberly Nichole on Seattle Roots, New York Grit, and Finding Her Sound
Kimberly Nichole’s journey into rock music was a natural evolution. Early on, while collaborating with a producer who had a strong passion for rock, Nichole was introduced to iconic bands like The Doors, Green Day, and Foo Fighters. Although she had always enjoyed rock, especially being from Seattle, it was during this creative period that her love for the genre truly deepened. The producer also introduced her to blues records, broadening her musical palette.
Advertise on Back2Besa: Uplifting Our Voices Across the Pacific Northwest
Reach a Diverse and Engaged Audience: Back2Besa is a platform that celebrates Black excellence and amplifies the voices of the Pacific Northwest's vibrant Black community. By advertising with us, you're reaching a diverse and engaged audience and showing your commitment to supporting and uplifting underrepresented communities.
Local Loyalty Program: A Unique Initiative Driving Economic Growth in Rainier Beach
Converge Media has been following the Rainier Beach High School redevelopment project since its inception, documenting every step of this transformative journey. From the initial planning phases to the groundbreaking ceremony, the pouring of the foundation, and the gradual rise of the walls, we've been there to witness the progress.
Besa Gordon Reflects on the 23rd Annual Urban League Breakfast: A Morning of Inspiration
By Besa Gordon - Dude, talk about a reunion! If you know me, you know this girl isn't a morning person, but I was NOT going to miss the Urban League's 23rd Annual Breakfast. We're talking a powerful conversation with Taji P. Henson and Hill Harper, PLUS a whole slate of amazing honorees doing big things right here in Seattle.
Besa’s Buy Back Brunch at Simply Soulful
On November 29th, from 12pm to 2pm, come to Simply Soulful in the Central District of Seattle and join Besa Gordon for her Buy Black Brunch for an afternoon of good food and good company, all while supporting Black-owned businesses. The ticket comes with 2 mimosas plus and your choice of, Simply Breakfast, Shrimp & Grits, Chicken & Waffles, Bananas Foster Waffles or Strawberry Waffles, Catfish Dinner, or Chicken Dinner.
PHOTOS: Urban League 2024 Era of Exceptional Service Breakfast
The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle held their annual breakfast on Friday, November 22nd, at the Seattle Convention Center. Actors and activists Hill Harper and Taraji P. Henson anchored the breakfast with a conversation ranging from social justice to mental health. Photos: Susan Fried
Besa Gordon Teams Up with Buy Black Card to Empower Black-Owned Businesses
The Buy Black Card program, spearheaded by Intentionalist founder and CEO Laura Clise, is making significant strides in its mission to bolster Black-owned businesses. Now in its second year, this initiative transcends the concept of a mere gift card; it's a powerful instrument for direct investment in the success of Black-owned enterprises. This year, the program has joined forces with Besa Gordon, the charismatic host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle, to further amplify its reach and impact.
This Week on Back2Besa: Kutt N' Up's 20th Anniversary - A Legacy of Dance and Empowerment
This week on Back2Besa, host Besa Gordon takes you on a journey across the Evergreen State. From the inspiring NAACP Freedom Fund Gala in Spokane to the grand opening of the Beacon Pacific Village Apartments, we celebrate Black excellence and the power of community-driven initiatives.
Higher Learning: ECSU’s Dr. Wade stops by to uplift the North Carolina HBCU
Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), a historically Black university with a legacy spanning over a century, is not only making higher education affordable but also fostering a nurturing environment where students thrive.
Besa Gordon Previews Inspiring Spokane NAACP Gala on Good Day Seattle
Yesterday, Besa Gordon, the dynamic host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle, sat down with Erin Mayovsky of Good Day Seattle to offer a sneak peek into this weekend's episode. The focus? The Spokane NAACP Freedom Fund Gala, an event that left a lasting impression on Gordon and attendees alike.
WICKED The Musical Returns to the Paramount Theatre
Winner of more than 100 international awards including the Grammy Award and three Tony Awards, WICKED has been performed in excess of 100 cities in 16 countries around the world (U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Germany, Holland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, The Philippines, Mexico, Brazil, Switzerland and China) and has thus far been translated into six languages: Japanese, German, Dutch, Spanish, Korean and Portuguese. WICKED has been seen by more than 67 million people worldwide and has amassed in excess of $5.6 billion in global sales.
King County Executive Dow Constantine Reflects on Legacy, Challenges, and Future in Exclusive Interview
Constantine, who has been at the helm of King County since 2009, acknowledged the severity of the housing crisis, stating, "The housing crisis is something that was brewing back when I was first elected...but has grown and grown and grown." He emphasized the need for a more robust, regional approach to both market-driven and publicly driven housing production.
Chief Awodi Shares Healing Power of Drumming on The Day With Trae Show
Chief Tunji Awodi, a Seattle-based Ethnomusicologist, is passionate about using indigenous African culture to empower and heal communities. As the Executive Director of The Hawk Foundation, he provides multicultural education and drum facilitation throughout the Pacific Northwest. Chief Awodi's expertise in Bata dance and drum traditions, combined with his dedication to cultural preservation, makes him a powerful advocate for the transformative power of music and heritage.
Shyan Selah: Music, Mentorship, and a New Chapter with Forbes
Raised in a household that he refers to as a "black museum," Shyan Selah was surrounded by an abundance of records, books, art, vinyl, CDs, sports memorabilia, and articles, particularly those reflecting the history of Black culture. His musical journey began in a household deeply immersed in cultural and musical influence.
Back2Besa to Make National Debut on FOX SOUL December 7th
Get ready to witness a groundbreaking moment in Pacific Northwest television history! Back2Besa, the show that has been a beacon of Black culture, community, and empowerment in the region, is making its national debut on FOX SOUL on Saturday, December 7th at 4 pm PST. This is not just a premiere; it's a celebration of the show's incredible impact and a testament to the vibrant Black community of the PNW.
Besa Gordon at Spokane NAACP Gala: Celebrating Unity, Black Excellence, and Community
The night was filled with powerful speeches, inspiring performances, and a palpable sense of community. Hill Harper's keynote address was particularly moving, reminding us that "unity is not just a word, it's our weapon." His words resonated deeply with me, and I left the event feeling more empowered and motivated than ever to fight for social justice.
Bishop Gwendolyn Phillips Coates: A Multifaceted Trailblazer
Bishop Gwendolyn Phillips Coates is a dynamic force in ministry, entrepreneurship, and the arts. As the Senior Pastor of God Answers Prayer Ministries of Los Angeles and a high-ranking official within the Greater Church of Deliverance, Inc., she provides spiritual guidance and leadership to a wide-reaching congregation. Her influence extends beyond the pulpit, as she is a sought-after consultant, instructor, and author.
Leon Huggins-Richards: A Rising Star Takes the Stage in "A Soldier's Play"
Leon Huggins-Richards, an actor known for his role as Mitchel in "Cry It Out" and Chilli/Jabber in "In The Blood," will be appearing on The Day With Trae Show. He will be discussing his upcoming role as Captain Richard Davenport in the Acts on Stage production of "A Soldier's Play," premiering on November 14th.
Philip "Sharp Skills" Jacobs: A Multifaceted Talent Making His Mark
Philip "Sharp Skills" Jacobs is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry and beyond. As an actor, entrepreneur, speaker, and author, he embodies the spirit of a modern-day renaissance man. Currently captivating audiences in the powerful role of Private First Class Melvin Peterson in "A Soldier's Play," Jacobs brings depth and intensity to the character originally portrayed by Denzel Washington.
lostinlkwd!: From Past Projects to a Bold New Sound
In 2016, Brandon Phillips and Davon Revis first crossed paths on the set of a music video shoot. Davon had been brought in by a mutual contact to help with the production, a surprise to Brandon, as he hadn’t been informed. Despite the unexpected introduction, the two hit it off and quickly found common ground in their passion for music. Both artists were involved in separate music projects and groups at the time, but it wasn’t long before Davon joined Brandon’s team.