Entertainment
Why Jeremy Lin Matters
Asian Americans aren’t the only ones going ‘Lin-sane’ over the humble New York Knicks point guard. But Jeremy Lin’s race is definitely a factor in the remarkable buzz surrounding his unlikely rise to NBA stardom.
Whitney Was Human
We knew Whitney Houston was struggling, but sometimes it seemed we took more pleasure in her failures than in her music. The public’s voyeuristic desire to see celebrities at their lowest needs to change.
We Remember ‘Soul Train’
Paying tribute to the late Don Cornelius and his iconic television show that brought us the joy of black music, and an antidote for black invisibility.
Taking a Deeper Look at ‘Red Tails’
Despite mixed reviews, George Lucas’ blockbuster story of the Tuskegee Airmen has stirred a tremendous response, especially in the Black community. But beyond the surface buzz, the film packs profound lessons for Christian audiences.
Global Artists You Should Know
Eight global artists you NEED to know. (Video Playlist)
Sister, Sister
Beyonce, the commercial machine, vs. Solange, the down-to-earth soul sista. Is there a right way to be a pop diva?
Facing the Hollywood Giants — and Winning
With films like ‘Courageous’ and ‘Fireproof,’ Stephen and Alex Kendrick’s Sherwood Pictures has defied the odds and made redemptive movies that audiences are willing to support. PLUS: Win a free ‘Courageous’ DVD.
The Missing X Factor
Forget ‘American Idol.’ Where’s the church? Why local congregations need to reclaim their function as a training ground for young musicians.
At Stellars, Trend Meets Tradition
The 27th Annual Stellar Awards brought together old and new artists, while hinting at a promising future for the gospel music industry.
‘Red Tails’ Is Real American History
George Lucas’ ‘Red Tails’ celebrates the historic contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, while giving a talented Black cast a chance to shine. Hollywood needs to know there’s an audience for projects like this one.
Celebrating Dr. King with Service
Rev. Dr. M. William Howard Jr. and gospel artists Richard Smallwood and Tye Tribbett reflect on the influence of MLK on their own lives of service.
Oprah’s Next Challenge
I’ve been an Oprah Winfrey fan for a long time, but so far I’m not feeling her new network, OWN. And if the first two episodes of her new talk show are any indication, Oprah is still searching for answers herself.
Stop Singing About God’s ‘Favor’
Today’s gospel music is too often preoccupied with the idea of divine favor, without telling its listeners how or why God favors us.
2011 News Highlights
We didn’t cover all the top news of 2011 at UrbanFaith, but we did shine our own unique spotlight on much of it. Here are some highlights.
‘Hey, Tebow: Shut up already!’
As Tebowmania sweeps the nation, more people are celebrating NFL star Tim Tebow’s bold stand for Christ. But there’s a dangerous side to public displays of faith.
The Real Housewives of the Old Testament
Forget ‘The Young and the Restless’ or ‘Basketball Wives.’ Some of the original — and most scandalous — examples of “soap opera” and “reality TV” drama happened in the Old Testament narrative of Samuel.
Beware the ‘Twilight’ Zone?
With its mix of vampires, werewolves, and teen angst, ‘The Twilight Saga’ books and movies have become one of the most popular entertainment brands for tween, teen, and young adult females. But whether you’re on Team Edward or Team Jacob, the series’ spiritual overtones demand that we take it seriously.
Dark Knight of the Soul
‘Arkham City,’ the latest in a series of gritty Batman video games, reveals how vigilante justice can be thrilling for a moment, but how it’s ultimately bad for the spirit.