Introduction

Scammers are targeting clients looking to get their hair braided by using real stylists’ work and creating fake social media pages.

Reports of Scams

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is receiving reports of scams targeting individuals wanting braids. Scammers take pictures from legitimate stylists and post them on fake social media pages.

Modus Operandi

Potential clients find the fake pages and book appointments, often making small deposits. Clients realize they have been scammed when they do not hear back from the supposed stylist on the appointment day.

Impact on Legitimate Businesses

Real stylists like Porsche Hensley, who has been braiding hair for over 10 years and owns Divine Innovation 615 in Nashville, are affected. Hensley reported instances where clients arrived for appointments, only to find out they were scammed.

Precautions to Avoid Scams

BBB advises not to pay for the service in full before the appointment. Visit the stylist’s location before booking. Verify the stylist’s work by searching for them online and including the word “scam” after their name. Ask for the stylist’s license number and verify it.

Continuing the Business

Despite the scams, stylists like Porsche Hensley remain undeterred and continue their work.

Conclusion

Scammers exploiting the popularity of hair braiding are causing issues for both clients and legitimate stylists. Clients are advised to take precautions to ensure they are booking authentic services.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovRNa1msWYU

Monday, May 12, 2025

Black Music Collective’s Celebratory Event

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This combination of photos show Dr. Dre, from left, Missy Elliott and Lil Wayne who will be honored at the Recording Academy’s second annual Black Music Collective event during Grammy week next month. The academy announced Wednesday that the three Grammy winners along with music executive Sylvia Rhone will receive the Global Impact Award for their personal achievement in the music industry. (AP Photo)

Missy Elliott, Dr. Dre and Lil Wayne will be honored by the Recording Academy at its second annual Black Music Collective event next month during Grammy Week.

Wednesday’s announcement by the academy stated that Sylvia Rhone, Sylvia Rhone and three Grammy winners will be receiving the Global Impact Award for personal accomplishments in the music industry. The event will take place at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, ahead of the Grammy Awards.

Harvey Mason, Recording Academy CEO, said, “I am so delighted to honor and celebrate these giants in the musical industry.” As a part of our academy’s work, I am proud to continue to admire the Black Music Collective’s efforts.

Black Music Collective was founded in 2020 by prominent music industry figures, including Jimmy Jam and Quincy Jones. They are interested in finding ways to increase Black representation and inclusion.

Legend, MC Lyte, and D-Nice were all honored last year. The event also features LVRN (a Black-founded record company that has built a roster including 6lack and D.R.A.M. as well as Westside Boogie, Summer Walker, and Westside Boogie).

Dr. Dre is a seven-time Grammy nominee who has had big hits for Jay-Z and Eminem as well as Snoop Dogg and Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar and 50 Cent. His Super Halftime performance featuring Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Snoop Dogg, Lamar, and 50 Cent won him his first Emmy.

Elliott, a four-time Grammy Winner, was inducted into 2019’s Songwriters Hall of Fame. With her debut album, “Supa Dupa Fly”, broke through and collaborated with many top musicians, including Aaliyah and Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey and Ciara.

Lil Wayne has five Grammys and a number of huge hits, including the “Lollipop” feat. Static Major and A Milli. He also helped to ignite the careers Nicki Minaj, Drake and Tyga.

Rhone is regarded as one the most influential music executives in history. In 1994, was elected chairman and CEO of Elektra Entertainment Group. She was the first African American woman to be promoted to these titles.

Source: AP

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