By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com
This year has had some exciting moments in the world of art, entertainment and pop culture. From music to art to education and everything else in between, 2024 was full of events that kept the Black community talking. Here’s a timeline of some local and national news that really stood out in 2024.
January
Katt Williams’ Interview on “Club Shay Shay”– Jan. 3
At the top of the year, comedian Katt Williams appeared on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast, “Club Shay Shay,” delivering a candid and unfiltered interview.In the interview that was seen by millions of people, he discussed various topics, including critiques of industry peers, which sparked widespread discussion amongst the world of comedy and entertainment.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Ayo Edebiri grab Golden Globes – Jan 7DaVine (left) and Ayo,
Credit1a: AP Photo/ Evan Agostini
Credit1b: AP Photo/ Jordan Strauss
Da’Vine Joy Randolph (left) and Ayo Edebiri ended the night of Jan. 7 as 2024 Golden Globe Award winners. Randolph took home the trophy for best actress in a supporting role for “The Holderovers,” and Ayo Edebiri won best actress in a musical or comedy television series for her work on “The Bear.”
February
Killer Mike sweeps the Grammys – Feb. 4
Killer Mike
Credit: AP Photo/ Richard Shotwell
Killer Mike had a big night at the 2024 Grammys, held Feb. 4. The 48-year-old rapper took home Grammy Awards in three different categories, including Best Rap Album for “Michael,” and Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song for “Scientists and Engineers.” The wins solidified Killer Mike’s name as a master storyteller, lyricist and hip hop legend.
Usher’s Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show – Feb. 11 
Usher
Credit: AP Photo/ Brynn Anderson
Usher delivered a show-stopping Super Bowl halftime performance, lighting up the stage with a medley of his greatest hits. Combining electrifying choreography, stunning visuals and surprise guest appearances, the R and B icon showcased his signature style and reminded fans why he’s a global superstar.
March
Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef– March 22
kendrick
Credit: AP Photo/ Chris Pizzello
The ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake intensified in 2024, fueled by a string of diss tracks and public accusations. The tension reignited on March 22, when Lamar’s verse on Future’s song “Like That” took aim at Drake and J. Cole– questioning their positions in rap. Drake fired back with songs like “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle,” escalating the feud. Lamar responded with “Euphoria”, “6:16 in LA,” and his chart topping song “Not Like Us” sparking a fast-paced exchange of diss tracks.
Homes of Sean “Love” Combs raided – March 25
Sean Combs
Credit: AP Photo/ Mark Von Holden
On March 25, federal agents raided Sean “Love” Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami as part of a major investigation into allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering. The raids led to the seizure of illegal narcotics, modified firearms and other items connected to the case. The investigation has intensified public scrutiny of the music mogul, who was later indicted on multiple charges.
Beyoncé Releases Cowboy Carter – March 29 
Beyonce
Credit: AP Photo/ Chris Pizzello
Beyoncé made waves with the release of her highly anticipated album “Cowboy Carter” in March. Blending her signature artistry with bold new sounds, the album showcased themes of empowerment, resilience and freedom, all set against a backdrop of innovative production. Fans and critics alike celebrated this latest chapter in her ever-evolving musical journey. The release sparked much debate about Black artists in the country space, and the spotlight spilled onto artists like Collins Obinna “Shaboozey” Chibueze and Brittney Spencer.
April
50 Cent opens G-Unit Studios – April. 18
50 cent
Credit: AP Photo/ CJ Rivera
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson launched G-Unit Studios to expand his reach into film, television and digital media. The studio aimed to create impactful content, building on his success with the show, “Power,” and other ventures, positioning him as a key player in the entertainment industry.
Black Effects Podcast Festival– April 27
Radio host and media personality, Charlamagne Tha God teamed up with iHeartRadio to host the 2024 Black Effect Podcast Festival at Pullman Yards in Atlanta. The event highlighted Black voices in the podcast industry, featuring live recordings of popular shows like “Carefully Reckless with Jess Hilarious” along with panel discussions on podcasting and brand partnerships.
May
CNN releases footage of Sean “Love” Combs assaulting ex-girlfriend– May 17
On May 17, the drama surrounding Sean “Love” Combs continued as CNN released footage of him from 2016 where he can be seen abusing his then girlfriend Cassandra “Cassie” Fine (neé Ventura) in the corridor of a California hotel.
June
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” Juneteenth performance – June 19
Kendrick Lamar headlined “The Pop Out: Ken and Friends” concert on June 19, at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, Calif., celebrating Juneteenth and Black Music Month. The event featured over 25 West Coast artists, including Ty Dolla Sign, YG and Dr. Dre. Lamar performed his hit diss track “Not Like Us” five times at the event. The concert was live streamed on Amazon Music. Critics hailed the event as a significant moment for West Coast hip-hop and Lamar’s legacy. The song also took off and became a top hit of the year, topping at number one for 21 weeks on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart .
Sacramento State recognized as a Black-serving institution- June 6
Sacramento State was recognized as a Black serving institution by the U.S. Department of Education, highlighting its commitment to supporting Black students. This designation emphasizes the university’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in higher education.
July
Apollo Theatre announced as recipient of Kennedy Center Honor – July 18
This summer the Kennedy Center announced the 47th class of honorees which included the historic Apollo Theatre. For 90 years, Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theatre has stood as a pillar within the Black community providing an environment for creativity, community and culture to thrive. The Apollo is the first institution of its kind to receive this honor.
AppleTV+ premieres Lady in the Lake, featuring local talent– July 19
lady in the lake
Credit: Photo courtesy of AppleTV
The Apple TV+ series “Lady in the Lake” premiered starring Natalie Portman and Moses Ingram. Set in 1960s Baltimore, the mystery thriller follows Portman’s character as she investigates the unsolved murder of a Black woman, uncovering dark secrets about the city. The series was based on the true story of Shirley Parker, a Baltimore woman who went missing on April 23, 1969 and featured local talent to help portray the story. The AFRO American Newspapers was the only publication to do extensive coverage of her disappearance.
Simone Biles makes Olympic history– July 21
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Simone Biles made history by becoming the most decorated gymnast of all time. With a series of stunning performances, she earned multiple gold medals, surpassing the previous record for Olympic gymnastics achievements. Biles’ remarkable success solidified her legacy as one of the greatest athletes in Olympic history.
August
Jessica Hyatt becomes Chess Master– Aug. 4
Jessica hyatt
Credit: Photo courtesy of Instagram/ Successacademy
Jessica Hyatt made history at only 16 years old by becoming a chess master– a remarkable achievement in the competitive chess world. She is the second Black woman to ever hold this title and her strategic brilliance led her to earn the prestigious title. Hyatt’s accomplishment has been celebrated as a significant milestone in breaking barriers for Black women in chess.
September
Sean “Love” Combs arrested – Sept. 17
Whether you call him “Puffy,” “Puff Daddy,” “P.Diddy” or “Love,” fans of Sean Combs worldwide were shocked to see the music mogul in handcuffs on Sept. 17. The troubles began in Nov. 2023, when Combs settled a lawsuit filed by Casandra “Cassie” Fine (neé Ventura) within 24 hours of the initial filing. The lawsuit alleged a host of abusive allegations.
November
Denzel Washington announces final projects and new endeavors – Nov. 12
Legendary actor Denzel Washington announced in early November that he was planning on stepping away from acting following a series of upcoming projects including the upcoming “Gladiator II” film, the broadway productions of “Othello” and “King Lear” and the unannounced but highly anticipated Black Panther 3. Washington noted that after decades of work, he’s ready to embrace the next chapter of his life and pursue other things like directing.
Cynthia Erivo stars in “Wicked”– Nov. 27
Cynthia
Credit: AP Photo/ Chris Pizzello
Singer and actress, Cynthia Erivo starred as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the Broadway hit, “Wicked,” marking the first time in the history of the musical a woman of color was cast in the role. The Tony award winning talent brought depth and emotion to the story of the green-skinned witch, alongside Ariana Grande as Glinda.
Twitch Streamer Kai Cenat breaks subscriber record– Nov. 22
Kai Cenat broke the Twitch streaming record for most concurrent subscribers, solidifying his status as one of the platform’s biggest creators. Known for his high-energy content and engaging personality, Cenat’s milestone marked a historic moment in the streaming world, celebrated by fans and fellow creators alike.
December
Chance the Rapper files for divorce – Dec. 13
Chance “Chance the Rapper” Bennett and his wife Kirsten Corley, are divorcing after eight months of separation. The couple first got together in 2013 and have been married since 2019. They share two daughters and plan to co-parent amicably. The split follows public scrutiny of their relationship in April 2023 after Bennett was seen dancing with another woman.
Yvette Nicole Brown gets married– Dec. 14
Yvette Nicole Brown, star of NBC’s “Community,” married actor Anthony Davis on Dec. 14 in Beverly Hills. The intimate ceremony featured heartfelt touches, live performances and a custom gown honoring Brown’s late mother. The couple, who reunited in 2021, celebrated finding love later in life.
Tyler Perry’s 6888th Movie premieres on Netflix – Dec. 20
6888th, 20a(left)
Credita: Photo courtesy of Netflix
Creditb: Photo courtesy of National Archives
Tyler Perry premiered his film “The Six Triple Eight” which tells the inspiring true story of the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas during World War II. The women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion sorted millions of backlogged letters to boost soldier morale. Perry’s film highlights their courage, resilience and the impact of their overlooked contributions to history. During World War 2, the AFRO covered the 6888 and has maintained a large archive collection of their work.
