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| | As we close out February, we celebrate Black History Month. While some companies have rolled back their DE&I initiatives, others have doubled down on their commitments. |
| The recent rollbacks serve as a stark reminder of how inconsistent big business can be. Five years ago, we believed that companies’ efforts to embrace diversity and make corporate America more equitable and inclusive were just the beginning. Unfortunately, for some, it seems these efforts were little more than a passing trend—driven more by a desire to capitalize on a moment than by a true commitment to long-term change. |
| At BMF, we remain inspired by the incredible contributions of Black visionaries and creatives who shape history. We’ve been honored to collaborate with extraordinary talents over the years—from global icons like Beyoncé and Rihanna to emerging creators through our work with TikTok for Black Creatives. Read on for our roundup of the next generation of Black creators you need to know now, as well as how brands are celebrating Black History Month. |
| | Bruce, Brian, Ed + The BMF Team |
| | |  | Pulse Check: Need-To-Know Black Creators & Business Owners Black creators and entrepreneurs are shaping culture, pushing boundaries, and redefining industries as they always have. From game-changing innovators in fashion and beauty to trailblazers in design, media, and the arts, these visionaries are building legacies and creating space for the next generation. This Black History Month, BMF has put together a list of brands and creatives who are making waves, breaking barriers, and owning their narratives. ➔ |
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| | |  | BMF Connects With George Wayne Brian Feit sat down with George Wayne, the maestro of the provocative interview, who set the gold standard for fearless, unfiltered conversations. Today, the tables turn—let’s kiki, George. ➔ |
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| | The New + The NoteworthyEverything Worth Doing/Seeing/Getting/Booking |
|  | | BMF client Japan Airlines teamed up with designer Kevan Hall for Journey to Japan, which debuted with a BMF-produced exhibition during NYFW. Inspired by traditional Japanese artistry—Suminagashi, Kintsugi, and Indigo Dyeing—Kevan Hall’s FW25 collection fuses intricate Japanese designs with Hall’s signature elegance. The collection celebrates the parallel between fashion and culture. Check out the collection here, and book your own journey to Japan here. ➔ |
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|  | | Looking to elevate your haircare routine with a brand that honors the beauty and heritage of Black hair? Look no further than BMF client Cécred, Beyoncé’s haircare brand. Rooted in Black hair traditions, Cécred delivers transformative care for all textures. Discover more here. ➔ |
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| | | Kith has teamed up with the Brooklyn Museum for a limited-edition capsule honoring Black History Month. Featuring artwork by Alvin Armstrong, Marcus Troy, Penda Diakité, and more, the collection includes hoodies, crewnecks, tees, and a standout varsity jacket with the museum’s iconic facade. Discover the collection here. ➔ |
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|  | Photos via TODAY & Net-A-Porter |
| Christopher John Rogers’s Fall 2025 collection, Exhale, debuted on February 6 at New York Fashion Week in the Brooklyn Fish Transfer building. Known for bold color, corsetry, and sleek pantsuits, the collection introduced adjustable elements like buttons and ties for personalization. A CFDA Award winner and LVMH Prize finalist, Rogers’s work has been worn by Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Michelle Obama and featured in Vogue and The Met. His collections are available at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, and Net-a-Porter, shop now here. ➔ |
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|  | | Forever 21 and the Compton Cowboys launch a “Street Country” collection for Black History Month, blending streetwear with equestrian-inspired designs to celebrate Black cowboy culture. The collection is now available online and in select stores. Shop the collaboration here. ➔ |
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|  | Photo via The Harlem Chamber Players |
| The iconic Harlem Chamber Players, featured in stories in CNN, New York Times, and more are celebrating Black History and great Black-created music. Go check them out at venues all around NYC and find an event near you here. ➔ |
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| | The FrequencyWhat We’re Listening To Now. |
|  | | ICYMI, Kendrick Lamar released Not Like Us in 2024. Known for its bold tone and commanding presence, the song has won five Grammys, including Song of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Record of the Year. The Grammy-winning track also stole the spotlight at Super Bowl LIX, where Lamar’s high-energy halftime performance captivated audiences, turning it into a cultural moment. Listen to the track here. ➔ |
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|  | | The Weeknd released his newest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, exploring themes of fame, mortality, and personal introspection, it features collaborations with Travis Scott, Lana Del Rey, and more. Musically, it blends genres from Brazilian funk to synth-pop. Notably, it is the final installment in his trilogy that began with After Hours and Dawn FM, with each album representing different stages of an emotional and psychological journey. Hurry Up Tomorrow serves as the conclusion, weaving introspection with genre-bending sounds to complete the narrative. Discover the album here. ➔ |
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| | The BeatIntroducing: The Beat by DJ Flash |
|  | BMF has partnered with Flash GEA (jē), NYC’s hottest up-and-coming DJ and genre-blending producer known for having his finger on the pulse of the city’s vibrant music scene. From his electrifying sets at the trendiest venues to his signature mix of big room techno and acid house, @flashgea is the sound selector that major brands and tastemakers are turning to. For this issue of The Pulse, Flash has curated a playlist, giving you a taste of today’s top tracks—listen here. ➔ |
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| | The DestinationNow Departing... |
|  | | Atlanta is where Southern charm meets urban energy. The city’s skyline rises above historic neighborhoods, where civil rights landmarks stand alongside world-class museums, music venues, and a thriving food scene. Stroll through the BeltLine, explore the vibrant markets, or escape to the lush trails of Piedmont Park. Check out our Atlanta travel guide to get inspired. ➔ |
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| | | The SublimeCreators, Innovators, And Cool $#!+ You Should Know About. |
|  | For the first time ever, we're thrilled to be joining forces to bring Chez Vayner to life at Cannes Lions. As a valued member of the BMF community, you're getting early access to partner with VaynerX and tap into their network of leading global brand marketers and talents, leveraging BMF's expertise in producing unparalleled experiences. Whether you're dipping your toes in your first Lions or returning for your tenth year, connect with jamie.antonino@vaynermedia.com to be part of what will be the best Cannes Lions yet. Learn more about partnering here. ➔ |
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|  | | The Met Gala has announced its 2025 theme: "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," set to celebrate Black dandyism and menswear. Inspired by Slaves to Fashion, the exhibition showcases style from the 18th century to today. The dress code, "Tailored for You," highlights suiting and self-expression. Co-chairs include Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams. Check out Vogue’s official website for more details and to stream the event. ➔ |
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|  | | Known for his bold, body-hugging silhouettes and fearless designs, New York-based designer LaQuan Smith delivers high-octane glamour to nightlife fashion. His latest collection fuses sophistication with edge—think sequins, faux fur corsets, and daring cut-outs, all made to command attention. A go-to for statement eveningwear, Smith continues to push boundaries and redefine modern luxury. Discover his work here. ➔ |
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|  | | Nike partnered with athletes like Kevin Durant and Colin Kaepernick for its “Future Movement” campaign, honoring Black History Month. The campaign highlights the many forms of wellness and the pursuit of communal well-being. Read and celebrate their stories here. ➔ |
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|  | | Celebrating bold prints and vibrant storytelling, Busayo brings a fresh perspective to modern African fashion. The Lagos-born, Brooklyn-based brand fuses traditional Nigerian textiles with contemporary silhouettes— flowing maxi dresses, structured blazers, and kaleidoscopic patterns designed to stand out. With a fearless approach to color and craftsmanship, Busayo redefines wearable art, infusing every piece with cultural depth and individuality. Discover Busayo here. ➔ |
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| | The Week in ReviewICYMI... |
| Travel Celebrating Black History Month 2025 – Honoring African Americans In Travel And Hospitality ➔ ‘White Lotus’ And The Ultra-Luxurious Thailand Hotels That Stood In For The “Best Resort In The World” ➔ The 15 Best Places To Celebrate Black History Month In 2025 ➔ The Globetrotting Communities Embracing Black Joy Through International Travel ➔
Fashion & Beauty Brandice Daniel On Gap X Harlem's Fashion Row's Collection Featuring 6 Black Designers ➔ AC Milan, Off-White™ And PUMA Head To Dreamland With Latest Kit Collaboration ➔ 15 Black-Owned Skincare And Beauty Brands You Need To Know Now ➔ 10 Seasons In, The Black In Fashion Council Discovery Showroom Continues To Transform The Industry ➔
Entertainment Henry Ford Museum Celebrates Black History Month With Performances, Interactive Tours, And A Special Exhibit Honoring The 60th Anniversary Of The Voting Rights Act ➔ Aubrey Plaza Honored Her Late Husband In A Sweet Way At SNL50 ➔ ‘It Ends With Us’: Blake Lively Claims Two Other Actresses Are Prepared To Testify Against Justin Baldoni ➔ All The Best Moments From SNL’s 50th-Anniversary Special ➔
Technology Google Calendar Deletes Women’s History Month And Other Cultural Events ➔ TikTok Returns To Apple, Google App Stores ➔ Inside The Creativity Debate—How The Rise Of Media And Tech Is Redefining Success ➔ How Travelport’s UK-Based Travel Technology Is Transforming Costco Travel’s Booking Experience In The United States And Canada ➔
Media Barbie Announces Partnership With Black In Fashion Council, Spotlights Emerging Designers For Black History Month ➔ Following Black Influencers ➔ Analysts Give Nike Skims Deal A Thumbs-Up — With Some Reservations ➔ Black History Month: How It Began And How To Celebrate ➔
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