R&B Legend Gavyn Rhones Shares His Thoughts on Babyface’s Treatment at The Grammys, Expressing His Disappointment in the Ongoing Silencing of R&B Music..…..

February 03, 2025 - So; if you had an opportunity to watch the red carpet ceremonies for this past weekend’s Grammy Awards, you were witness to the unfortunate travesty with legendary R&B singer, producer, and executive Kenny Edmonds, know. ‘Round the world as Babyface! While being interviewed on the red carpet; which was swarming with celebrities in all areas, the singer was abruptly cut-off in answering a question when the two young AP reporters caught a glimpse of rising star Chappell Roan.

Fellow R&B legend Gavyn Rhones took a few moments to weigh in on the incident, for which the Associated Press has since released a statement and apology to Babyface following heavy criticism…

“It saddens me to see R&B continuously pushed further into the background. The genre still has a powerful voice, and whether you're a newcomer or a legend, you deserve to be heard. Babyface was the one who opened doors for me when I first started, and seeing an R&B icon set aside in favor of a new Pop artist only reinforces the ongoing disregard for R&B—as if it has no place in today’s culture dominated by Pop.

Babyface, we salute you and all that you've accomplished. As for that insincere apology on the red carpet by the AP—it wasn’t genuine, just an attempt to save face in my eyes.

Google Me, I stand with R&B”

Many people; from fans of Babyface to other industry professionals, shared the same sentiments!

Stay tuned to U.G. Digital Magazine for further coverage!

Grammy Award Winning Singer-Songwriter-Producer & Media Personality, RAHEEM DEVAUGHN Is Named New Host of The Legendary And Original Quiet Storm at WHUR 96.3

“The Love King of R&B and Soul, Raheem DeVaughn Takes the Helm of the Legendary Original Quiet Storm at WHUR 96.3”

(New York, NY - October 22, 2024)--What do you get when you combine R&B’s “Love King” with DC’s top-rated “Love Show?” The ultimate “Quiet Storm.” 96.3 WHUR proudly announces that beginning Thursday, October 17th, Grammy Award-winning National Recording Artist Raheem DeVaughn will be the new host of the legendary “Original Quiet Storm.” Tune in weekdays from 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. for an unforgettable musical experience.

The announcement comes as WHUR prepares to celebrate nearly 50 years of the iconic program, made popular by the late legendary Melvin Lindsey. Since 1976, the “Original Quiet Storm” on WHUR has guided listeners on a nightly journey of soulful slow jams and romantic melodies. “We are thrilled to launch this new chapter of the ‘Original Quiet Storm’ with one of the most talented creative artists in R&B, proudly representing Washington,” said Al Payne, Senior Director of Programming for WHUR.

Raheem DeVaughn is no stranger to radio. He has been hosting his own self-titled podcast since 2012. This evolution will further highlight his engaging hosting abilities and provide an opportunity for artists to connect with listeners in a unique and authentic way.  “I’m humbled and extremely excited about my partnership with the WHUR family.  The ‘Original Quiet Storm’ is a legacy brand and to be hand chosen as the new voice and face is an honor and a dream come true,” said DeVaughn.  

Working as the executive producer of the show will be WHUR Assistant Program and Music Director Traci LaTrelle. “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Raheem DeVaughn. His soulful voice and deep connections to the DMV and R&B will bring a fresh intimate energy to the show, perfectly capturing the essence of the “Original Quiet Storm.”

WHUR's new fall weekday lineup is now set. Start your day with “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by “Sunni and the City” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In the afternoon, tune in to the “Nina & Joe Show” with Joe Clair and Nina Brown from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Then, catch “The Daily Drum” with Harold Fisher from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Finally, unwind to “The Original Quiet Storm” hosted by “The Love King” Raheem DeVaughn from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

LEGENDARY & ICONIC SINGER FRANKIE BEVERLY HAS DIED…

The world is in mourning; yet again, with the passing of legendary and iconic singer Frankie Beverly. Discovered by the late Marvin Gaye, Beverly; whose actual name was Howard Stanley Beverly, began releasing music as the lead singer of Maze in 1970.

Beverly’s death was confirmed by family via a posting on social media platform Instagram. Posted just an hour ago as of press time, more than 19.000 have already viewed and posted comments of respect and condolences.

Frankie Beverly and Maze have had numerous hits and classics throughout the past six decades; including “Before I Let Go”, “Joy And Pain”, “Happy Feelin’s”, and “Back In Stride”. They’ve been recognized several times over the last 15 years, beginning in 2006 with the Rhythm And Blues Foundation Pioneer Awards for Individual Artist, then in 2010 with the Trumpet Awards. They later were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2012 BET Awards, and an NAACP Image Award in 2024.

Visit the Instagram profile @frankiebeverlyandmaze to read the full statement released by family. As always, we will report any updates as they are made available.