Darrin Dewitt Henson

When you talk about versatility and relentless passion in the entertainment industry, Darrin Dewitt Henson’s story is one that truly stands out. He’s an actor, producer, choreographer, and author—a multi-hyphenate whose creative journey has been shaped by the vibrant streets of New York, the golden era of soul music, and a drive to inspire audiences around the world. But how did this dynamic career come to life, and what continues to fuel Darrin’s artistic fire? Let’s take a deep dive into the roots, defining moments, and inspirations behind his remarkable legacy.

For Darrin, the journey didn’t start on a Hollywood set or a Broadway stage—it began in the bustling neighborhoods of New York City. “As a New York native, I had access to hip-hop in its original state,” Darrin recalls. The city was alive with music, movement, and creative energy. It was here that Darrin found himself immersed in a cultural revolution, surrounded by the sights and sounds of artists who would go on to define entire generations.“My childhood was soundtracked by the Jackson 5, The Commodores, and the timeless rhythms of disco and soul music,” he says. “I grew up watching the old MGM musicals, and I was lucky enough to experience the Afro era at its peak. Shows like American Bandstand and Soul Train weren’t just entertainment—they were inspiration. They showed me that performance could be powerful, joyful, and transformative.”It wasn’t just the music or the dance moves that caught Darrin’s attention—it was the sense of possibility. The creative energy of New York, combined with the influence of iconic artists, planted the seeds for a career that would span every corner of the entertainment world.

While many artists find their calling in a single discipline, Darrin’s journey has been about embracing every creative opportunity that came his way. “I was inspired by all these things and artists, and that opened me up to so many different creative roles,” he shares. For Darrin, dance was the first language of expression, but it quickly became clear that his talents and passions couldn’t be contained to just one medium.“Whether it was the infectious rhythm of a dance beat or the emotional pull of a dramatic scene, I felt compelled to express myself in every way possible—acting, producing, choreography, and writing,” he says. “Each discipline offered a new way to tell stories and connect with people. I never wanted to limit myself.”This hunger for creative exploration would become a defining trait of Darrin’s career, allowing him to seamlessly transition between the worlds of film, television, music, and literature.

Every artistic journey is marked by moments that change everything—milestones that transform dreams into reality. For Darrin, these moments began early. “The first defining moment was when I was picked as a dancer and choreographer at just 16 years old at D Clinton High School to go perform at a college in Vermont,” he remembers. “That was huge for me. It was the first time I realized that my talent could take me places, that I could represent my school and my community through art.”But the magic didn’t stop there. “The second time was when I appeared on Club MTV with downtown Julie Brown. I was a standout dancer and choreographer, and being highlighted on that show was a big deal. It gave me confidence and visibility—I was being recognized for doing what I loved.”Of course, there are some moments that feel almost surreal, even in hindsight. “Working with Michael Jackson in Hungary and Budapest on his ‘History’ video—Michael told me I was incredible. Is that enough of a defining moment for you?” Darrin laughs, but the impact is clear. “That experience was validation on another level. To be recognized by one of the greatest artists of all time—it was a dream come true.”

Darrin’s creative journey is deeply rooted in the music and dance that shaped his youth. “My background in dance and choreography has influenced my approach to acting and storytelling on screen,” he says. “It’s about transferring the energy from one art to the next and applying a great deal of focus and time. If that focused medium worked in one art form, it’ll work in another—and it’s proven to be true.”This philosophy has allowed Darrin to bring a unique physicality and emotional depth to his acting roles. His performances are marked by a sense of rhythm, movement, and authenticity that can only come from someone who lives and breathes the art of performance.

As an actor, Darrin has brought unforgettable characters to life in films like “The Express,” “Stomp the Yard,” “Tekken,” and Netflix’s “Black Bear.” Each role has presented its own challenges and rewards, but some stand out as particularly meaningful.“The role that challenged me the most was playing Jim Brown in ‘The Express’—the iconic football player, activist, father, and husband. That was a huge responsibility, and stepping into his shoes was one of the defining moments that made me realize I had truly arrived as an actor,” Darrin reflects.“‘Stomp the Yard’ was another proud moment. It meant joining the fraternity of actors who are also dancers—John Travolta, Gregory Hines, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Michael Jackson, and so many others. Being part of that legacy is something I hold dear.”International recognition followed with his performance in the South African film “Zulu Wedding,” earning him an AMAA nomination. “To finally have my feet on the ground in Africa was a dream come true. I was fortunate enough to work there for about three months, and to be nominated for an international award, which is equivalent to the Oscars, still leaves me speechless.”And then there’s “Soul Food”—a groundbreaking TV series that earned Darrin and his castmates the NAACP Image Award for Best TV Series Drama. “Personally, to be acknowledged by my peers, the NAACP, and to have my family be able to enjoy my artistry was a win in itself. As an ensemble cast member, I’m proud of what we did—being the first African-American or American of African descent television drama ever. I am proud perpetually.”

Darrin’s influence extends far beyond screens—he’s responsible for some of the most iconic dance moments in pop culture. His MTV Award-winning choreography for NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye” is a testament to his creativity and vision.“I was fortunate enough to be creating as a dancer at this time where we were in the world with pop culture. NSYNC as a group, my dance moves, and that song was a perfect storm which culminated in their biggest record, my MTV music award, and a dance the whole world would be doing 25 years later. Again, living the dream.”

As a producer, Darrin is selective about the stories he brings to life. “Mostly, I look for something that I am passionate about—a story I want to tell, something that needs expression so other people can experience life through that expression. As an artist, that’s my job: to bring a character to life, to make other people feel. Deeply.”

Not content with conquering dance floors and screens, Darrin turned to writing with his book, “Intimate Thoughts and the Spirit of Change,” which earned an NAACP nomination. “That book actually wasn’t written for the world,” he confides. “It was written for myself—just things that I had to get out. I had to write it. I felt like I was gonna bust if I didn’t write, so I wrote all my thoughts and feelings down. A few years later, I realized that these words could help other people get through some of the hard times they may be going through. That’s how the book was born.”

With so many creative pursuits, how does Darrin manage to keep all the plates spinning? “I don’t know if I do any of those things well, but somehow I’m able to get it done,” he admits with a smile. “I’m still learning and growing through it all, but I just try to focus on what I’m doing with great intention and not think about anything or anyone else during that time. It seems to work out for the best.”

Darrin’s journey is far from over. Audiences can currently catch him on Starz’s “Double Cross” and Netflix’s “The Family Business,” which is now in its sixth season. “What excites me most about these roles is playing the strength and the vulnerability of the character,” he explains. “With ‘The Family Business,’ fans can look forward to an excellent drama that will produce results for the Duncan family and entertainment for its viewers. The family is going through its own individual growing pains, and my character Orlando is not above that law. He’s learning life lessons. It will prove to be an intense drama, and the world gets to see it in its sixth season.”

For aspiring artists hoping to follow in his footsteps, Darrin offers this advice: “Focus on one thing at a time. Focus on being great, not famous.”And as for what keeps him motivated through the inevitable ups and downs? “Show business isn’t life—life is life. Show business is an opportunity to show up and show out, but the lights always go out. Remember that.”

Darrin Dewitt Henson’s story is proof that inspiration, hard work, and authenticity can take you from the streets of New York to the world’s biggest stages. His journey is a living testament to the power of following your passion, embracing every creative opportunity, and staying true to yourself—no matter where the spotlight leads.And for those who think they know everything about Darrin? “I’m actually shyer than most people think,” he reveals. Even the brightest stars have their quiet moments.Follow Darrin Dewitt Henson:

• Official Website
• Instagram: @iamdarrindhenson

From the city where the White House looms over bustling neighborhoods and Go-Go beats echo through the streets, a new force in hip hop is rising. ET5RNAL, a group of four emcees—5NTRO, D5ZZY, S.5v Ghost, and Tone-T—are rewriting the rulebook on what it means to be DMV royalty. Their debut album, “EV5RLASTING,” isn’t just a project; it’s a mission to build a legacy, uplift their city, and push the boundaries of hip hop itself.

“We’re brothers forever, trying to build a legacy for us and for our city,” says 5NTRO, the group’s de facto General and the glue that brought ET5RNAL together. “We want to make an impact on the culture and regional hip hop. That’s what drives us.”Their unity is more than just music—it’s a testament to the strength found in diversity. Each member brings a different piece of the DMV to the table, and together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts.

Born and raised in S.E. Washington DC, 5NTRO is the group’s captain, strategist, and motivator. His journey started in DC cyphers and battle rap sessions, sharpening his freestyle skills until he was crowned “Freestyle King” at the legendary Listen Vision studios. “Freestyling challenges my mind to improvise and create more substance and depth in my music,” he shares. “Just going to cyphers, freestyle sessions, and battle rap helped my journey to be a better rapper and artist.”But 5NTRO’s vision goes beyond individual accolades. “I love to rap and do music, but it was hanging out with my bros, freestyling and writing, that made me realize we could be better together. That’s why I brought everyone together. Our individual stories shape our diversity and help us stand out from other artists. It shows our evolution, both in life and in music.”

D5ZZY, known as D5Z 3, is the backbone of ET5RNAL. He reps Maryland, and his rhyme patterns carry a unique West Coast elegance, blending smooth flows with staccato bursts. “My style is straightforward, but every now and then I’ll hit you with a fast flow,” he says. “I balance the group out lyrically and love working on hooks.”D5ZZY’s artistry is all about captivating listeners and elevating the group’s sound. He’s known for his ability to craft memorable hooks and bring a unique, balanced energy to every track. “I want my music to show growth, to prove that you can rise above your past and always evolve as an artist.”

If versatility had a face, it’d be S.5v Ghost. Known as the “heart of the gutter,” Ghost is celebrated for his ability to switch flows and cadences at will. “That’s why we call him Ghost—he can dip out and appear anywhere with the lyrics,” the group laughs. “He represents his side of the City very well and he’s the heartbeat of the S.5v Movement!”Ghost’s lyrics are heartfelt, drawn from real experiences in his hood, 10th Place. “I put on for my side by telling our stories, the real highs and lows. My inspiration comes from the people around me, the struggles and the triumphs.”

Every crew needs an architect, and for ET5RNAL, that’s Tone-T. Born on the side of DC where presidents have resided, Tone-T is the group’s producer, wordsmith, and the grown man of the squad. “Since I’m from Northwest, I embody many facets of my side that’s political and cultural,” he explains. “You’re surrounded by the power moves on Capitol Hill, but also in the thick of the city’s creative pulse. That duality shows up in everything I do, from the beats I make to the stories I tell.”A child of Go-Go music, Tone-T grew up next to the iconic “Black Hole” venue, absorbing the rhythms that define the city. “I incorporate many styles in my production process. I’m a drum type of guy, so my beats are geared that way. I’ll take a kick from a 70’s song and mesh it with a 90’s rock tune. I want our beats to feel alive, to have that ‘torch’ energy—DMV slang for something that’s fire.”And when it comes to perfectionism? “That would be me, Tone-T, hands down! I’m always looking for the right sound, the perfect mix. I want our music to hit just right.”

Describing ET5RNAL’s sound is no easy feat, but the group boils it down to three words: “Excellent, Great, and Different.” Or, if you ask them again: “Authentic, Witty, Diverse.” Their music is a reflection of DC itself—gritty yet hopeful, political yet streetwise, classic yet innovative.“Our experiences in life help us paint vivid pictures in art and hip hop,” 5NTRO says. “We want people to know we’re creatives with a knack for making clever, classic music based on experiences growing up in DC. We’re down to earth and authentic. We can rap, we got bars, and we can go toe to toe with the best.”

The group’s creative process is as organic as it gets. “Tone or The Ambience will send us some beats, and one of us might come up with a hook,” they share. “Then, all of us will try to write to the hook or topic. It’s collaborative, and it brings out the best in each of us.”This chemistry is what sets ET5RNAL apart. “We’re going to stand out with our bars and flows,” they say with confidence. “We observe our peers, listen to today’s music—Kendrick, Tyler, Clipse, Wale—and use that as fuel to keep evolving.”

“It’s a clever balance that we present all parts of the city,” 5NTRO explains. “Whether that’s high or low, good or bad, we make sure every side gets its shine. DC is more than just monuments and politics—it’s neighborhoods, it’s culture, it’s struggle, and it’s triumph. Our music is a reflection of all that.”

For ET5RNAL, hip hop isn’t just about hits—it’s about impact. “We feel as though we have to push the boundaries of the culture. It’s in our DNA,” they declare. “We’re inspired by the greats, but we’re here to leave our own mark. We want to show the highs and lows of music and life, and leave a legacy that lasts.”

So what’s next for the DMV’s new kings? The group keeps some cards close to the chest. “Many things—you’ll have to wait and see!” they tease. But fans can look forward to a music video for their second hit single “Vibes” and a listening party for “EV5RLASTING.” “We’re setting up a music video for our second hit single and preparing a listening party for our upcoming album,” they confirm.

Every crew needs a superpower, and for ET5RNAL, it’s unanimous: “The ability to have fire power—because everyone brings fire in their lyrics.” And if you’re looking for DMV authenticity, listen for the slang: “What’s good, Mo?” and “Torch”—the latter meaning something is straight fire.When it comes to perfectionism in the studio, the answer is clear. “The biggest perfectionist in the studio? Entro,” they say, but Tone-T claims the title too—proving that striving for greatness is a group trait.

Asked about dream collaborations, the group doesn’t hesitate: “Wale. It’s just time to!” Tone-T adds, “Backyard Band—they’re one of my favorite bands and I love their sound and style.” The group’s respect for local legends runs deep, and their own ambitions are just as bold.

At the heart of ET5RNAL’s journey is a commitment to authenticity, brotherhood, and the city that made them. “We’re brothers forever, trying to build a legacy for us and for our city,” says 5NTRO. “Making an impact on the culture and regional hip hop is what drives us.”Their story is one of resilience—missed record deals, industry setbacks, but always bouncing back stronger. “It was a blessing in disguise,” they reflect. “Doing research on the music industry, staying in contact with my bros, maintaining a level head—that’s what keeps us moving forward.”With “EV5RLASTING” on the horizon, ET5RNAL is ready to claim their throne. Their music is a love letter to DC, a chronicle of highs and lows, and a promise to keep pushing the boundaries of hip hop—one classic record at a time.

Ready for “scary hours” in hip hop? ET5RNAL is just getting started. DMV, your new kings have arrived.Stay connected with ET5RNAL and get exclusive updates, music drops, and behind-the-scenes moments:

• Instagram: @legendary_202_everlasting

For some, the entertainment industry is a chase for fame. For Derrick Muhammad, it’s a calling—an assignment handed down by something higher than Hollywood. “Desire feeds the will—but for me, it runs even deeper. This is an assignment. This calling on my life ain’t about fame and fortune. I always say: the only place I need to be famous is at the bank,” Derrick says with a laugh, but his eyes reveal the seriousness of his purpose. His journey is not just about making movies; it’s about changing the narrative for Black people on screens everywhere.

Derrick’s story begins in Youngstown, Ohio, a city famed for its steel mills and working-class spirit. It’s a place where dreams are forged in the fires of adversity—a place that gave Derrick the backbone and grit that would carry him through every twist and turn of his journey. “Youngstown gave me the steel spine. It gave me grit. That’s the Steel Valley Blood—Youngstown Grit,” he reflects.As a child, Derrick’s imagination ran wild. He staged epic scenes in the living room, playing cowboy, pirate, Tarzan—always the hero, always the central figure in his own cinematic universe. “That’s the problem, though—too few Black heroes on screen. Lack of representation robs kids of self-esteem and replaces it with an inferiority complex. I knew movies could shape a mind for better or worse.”The city’s tough exterior equipped Derrick with more than just resilience. It gave him “mental and emotional armor” to survive the entertainment industry’s storms. But it was his faith—his grounding in Islam and the “Supreme Wisdom” he carries—that gave him “the spiritual sight to see around corners and through the abyss.” That combination, Derrick says, is unstoppable.

Derrick didn’t always know he’d become a filmmaker. “I didn’t know what I wanted to be back then. Pro ballplayer? A lawyer? I flirted with it all,” he says. But everything changed in high school, when he discovered Spike Lee. “His story about making She’s Gotta Have It flipped a switch in my head. I dug deeper into giants like Spike, Robert Townsend, Melvin Van Peebles, and Oscar Micheaux—the Godfather of Black Film. That’s when it went from a dream to a mission.”Inspired by these pioneers, Derrick saw a higher purpose: “I feel obligated to change how Black people are seen on-screen, globally. The goal is to elevate our images and frequency—for us, for the culture, for the world to see us as we truly are.”

Derrick’s journey was anything but linear. After high school, he joined the Navy, stationed in Long Beach, California. “I’d sneak off to L.A. dreaming about working in the industry. Got out the Navy in ’88—traveled the world twice in three years.” The plan was to stay in L.A., but the pull of home—and the fear of the unknown—brought him back to Youngstown.The detour led to Columbus, Ohio, where Derrick built a life: a career in insurance, marriage, children, property, and all the storms that come with adulthood. “Divorce. Pain. But that’s where I discovered my personal legend.” The biggest challenge wasn’t external, but internal. “Killing self-doubt. Ignoring your circumstances and failures. Having the guts—the intestinal fortitude—to face whatever monster stands in your way, big or small.”When his son left for college, Derrick made a bold, secret move. “I packed up, sold my insurance agency, and left Columbus for L.A. in 2014. I didn’t tell nobody—maybe three people knew. I went in search of treasure—but what I found was myself. The real treasure is always within.”

Derrick’s journey is defined by transformation—turning setbacks into setups, and dreams into reality. “As a kid, I’d already directed whole movies in my mind. I’ve been seeing myself in scenes since I was six years old. In high school, I wrote it down: ‘Produced, Written, Directed, and Starring Derrick Muhammad.’ Manifestation is real.”That vision came to life with “Gale & The Storm,” an indie film that Derrick directed, co-wrote, produced, and starred in—alongside platinum-selling artist Karyn White. “Let me give flowers where they’re due—the iconic Karyn White, my friend and business partner, trusted me with that vision. She gave me the chance to direct my first feature—that was a dream from when I was 18.”

Making “Gale & The Storm” was a masterclass in creativity, faith, and hustle. Derrick recalls two moments that defined the experience. “Day one—first scene with Karyn—everybody’s tense. I told myself, ‘Don’t call nobody. This is on you.’ We circled up, and our sister Bridgett Vaughn—wardrobe queen and Karyn’s best friend in the film—prayed over the set. That covering made all the difference.”On the final day, a penumbral lunar eclipse and a comet lit up the Sacramento sky. “I knew right then the Lord of the Worlds approved my mission.” When the production lost a restaurant location, Derrick didn’t flinch. “I told my crew, ‘Move the patio furniture outside—that’s the restaurant now.’ No excuses. Guerilla Film Grind for real.”

Derrick’s approach to filmmaking is rooted in resourcefulness. “Create like your life depends on it—because it does. Use whatever you got. Robert Rodriguez made El Mariachi with a guitar case, a bus, and a bar. Seven grand turned into seven million. Legendary. There are no excuses in indie filmmaking—just solutions.”

A major chapter in Derrick’s story is his partnership with Karyn White. “Alchemy. Straight up. Karyn calls me the Alchemist. We met in acting class in L.A., became tight, and built trust.” Their collaboration is built on mutual respect and relentless drive. “She’s worked with legends—Babyface, LA Reid, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Clarence Avant, Larkin Arnold—so she keeps me sharp. She holds me to the highest standard. No sugarcoating. It’s all about truth, quality, impact.”Karyn’s work ethic, Derrick says, is unmatched. “On Gale & The Storm we were doing 20-hour days. She was acting and recording the soundtrack in real time—that’s next-level. She deserves her own series or sitcom. She’s relentless—whether it’s real estate, design, acting, singing, fashion—she conquers it all.”

Balancing the business and creative sides is simple for Derrick: “Handle business like business, create like artists. Then merge the two. If a promoter can’t meet her standard, we don’t do business—period. She’ll give 100% to a room of 100 the same way she does for 8,000 in South Africa. On the creative side, we stay fresh—fashion, visuals, production. Everything is about the vibe, the energy, and the legacy.”

“Gale & The Storm” is now streaming on Tubi TV, and the response has been electric. “The legendary Robert Hooks, the man behind the Negro Ensemble Company, called me personally. He told me my direction, acting, and vision were phenomenal—said I’m an upcoming star. That’s from the man who helped launch Denzel, Samuel L. Jackson, Lawrence Fishburne—that fires me up every day.”

Derrick is just getting started. He’s in preproduction for “Pegged for Murder” (a psychological thriller) and “Blood Debt” (a gritty redemption tale), with more projects on the horizon. “We’re mixing genre, soul, and truth. That’s the wave.”

How does Derrick stay ahead of trends? “I stay a student. No film school—but I’ve got stacks of books, masterclasses, and late-night study sessions. I watch classics, foreign films, and new releases. I dissect directors, producers, actors, screenwriters. I listen to interviews, podcasts, the works. You gotta stay curious. You gotta evolve.”The most valuable lesson? “Run your race. Put the blinders on. You can’t compare your lane to someone else’s—you don’t know their demons, and they don’t know yours. Your past? Don’t look back—it’ll eat you alive. Stay open, stay humble, keep learning. A wise man searches for knowledge and never returns—because the journey never ends.”

For aspiring creatives, Derrick offers this: “Ask yourself: do you want fame—or freedom? Fame is fleeting. The same people who crown you will crucify you. But the art—the passion for the craft—that’s eternal. Make movies in your city, your backyard, your basement—wherever. Desire feeds the will, but discipline is the motor that keeps it alive when inspiration fades. Stay in the fight when it’s hard. When the odds say quit—double down.”

Off set, Derrick is a father of four, a gym regular, a movie buff, and—surprisingly—a dedicated Duolingo Spanish learner on day 988. “I’m relentless with growth. Always learning. Always leveling up.”

Derrick Muhammad’s journey is a testament to grit, vision, and faith—a story of a man driven not by the pursuit of fame, but by the assignment to uplift, inspire, and transform. From Youngstown’s steel valleys to Atlanta’s creative heart, his legacy is already in motion, and the world is watching.💥 Boom! This is Derrick Muhammad—raw, real, and ready.

For Damian Valentine—known to many as D. Valentine—the path to becoming a motivational speaker, music artist, mentor, actor, author, and president of the Young Kings Mentoring Organization is the story of a purpose-driven life, shaped by faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others.

From a young age, D. Valentine recognized that he was called to something greater. “I’ve always felt fortunate to understand my purpose and embrace the talents I believe I was given,” he reflects. This early sense of calling was not just a vague feeling; it was a guiding force that shaped his decisions and ambitions. By aligning his spirit with what he describes as God’s mission for him, D. Valentine found that opportunities opened up in unexpected ways. Each new pursuit—whether it was music, public speaking, acting, or writing—became a chance to spread positivity, inspire others, and serve a higher purpose.

D. Valentine’s journey has been anything but linear. His passion for music took center stage early on, leading him from recording studios to live performances. But music was just the beginning. “My deep passion for music has taken me on an incredible journey, from recording and performing in the studio to public speaking, acting, writing a children’s book, and now mentoring others,” he shares. Each of these roles, while distinct, are united by a single thread: the desire to help others discover their own passions and transform their dreams into reality.

As his career evolved, D. Valentine became known not only for his versatile talents but also for his authenticity and drive to make a positive impact. Whether he’s on stage performing, speaking to a crowd, or working one-on-one with a young person, his message remains the same: embrace your gifts, work hard, and let positivity guide your path.

The turning point in D. Valentine’s life came in 2010, when he gained full custody of his son. This life-changing event became the catalyst for his commitment to mentorship. As his son’s friends began spending time at their home, D. Valentine noticed a common thread—many of these young men lacked fathers or positive male role models. “I naturally stepped into that role for them,” he recalls. Recognizing the impact he could have, he founded the Young Kings Mentoring Organization, a program dedicated to instilling confidence, integrity, and leadership skills in young men, especially those growing up without fathers.

Through Young Kings, D. Valentine set out to provide the kind of guidance and support that he knew could change the trajectory of a young person’s life. His goal was simple yet profound: to help young men realize their full potential and empower them to become leaders—kings—within their communities.

Behind D. Valentine’s mission is a powerful personal story. Raised by a strong Christian father who was himself a single parent, Damian learned early on the value of morals, integrity, and responsibility. “He chose to responsibly raise me, married, and created a loving family environment that played a crucial role in shaping the person I am today,” D. Valentine says. These lessons in leadership, faith, and perseverance became the foundation for his own approach to life and mentorship.

Because of his upbringing, D. Valentine feels uniquely equipped to speak to the challenges and opportunities that come with being a man, a father, and a leader. He strives to model the qualities he learned from his father—strength, humility, and unwavering faith—and to pass these lessons on to the next generation.

At the heart of the Young Kings Mentoring Organization is the K.I.N.G. framework: Knowledge, Integrity, Nobility, and being a Gentleman. For D. Valentine, these four pillars are the essence of what it means to be a king. “A truly self-possessed individual understands their own identity (Knowledge), acts with unwavering honesty (Integrity), embodies honor and high moral principles (Nobility), and consistently demonstrates respect and refined behavior towards others (Gentleman),” he explains.

Through his mentorship program, D. Valentine helps young men explore and develop these characteristics, providing them with a blueprint for personal growth. The program is more than just a set of lessons—it’s a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation.

A typical mentorship session with D. Valentine is rooted in genuine connection. He believes the first step is to truly understand each mentee’s story, motivations, and challenges. “It’s essential to ask them about their personal experiences and actively listen to their responses,” he says. From there, he offers encouragement and guidance, helping each young man define his own version of success and happiness.

The support provided goes beyond words. Whether it’s boosting confidence through fashion, fostering mental and spiritual growth, or offering opportunities in music and the arts, D. Valentine ensures that every mentee feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Mentoring young men, especially those who have faced disappointment or loss, comes with its own set of challenges. Building trust can be difficult, but D. Valentine is committed to providing a fresh start and a new perspective. “We want to show them that we are committed to standing by their side and will not let them down,” he says. This steadfast support is often what makes the difference, helping young men open up, heal, and grow.

The impact of D. Valentine’s work is tangible. Many of the young men he has mentored have gone on to become successful, confident adults. Some still affectionately call him “Dad,” a testament to the deep, lasting bonds formed through the program. The lessons of the Young Kings Mentoring Organization—rooted in knowledge, integrity, nobility, and respect—continue to shape lives and communities.

For those looking to start their own mentorship programs, D. Valentine offers this advice: “Prioritize fun and cultivate an environment where young people enjoy learning and striving to become their best. Offer the best version of yourself as a mentor and guide. It’s crucial to focus on your own development first, as this will better equip you to help others grow.”

D. Valentine’s journey is a testament to the power of purpose, resilience, and service. By embracing his talents and dedicating his life to uplifting others, he has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless young men. Through music, mentorship, and unwavering faith, D. Valentine continues to build a legacy that empowers the next generation to become kings in their own right.

When Karyn White debuted her self-titled album in 1988, the world was introduced to a voice that would define an era. The album, which went platinum, produced timeless hits like “Superwoman,” a song that became an anthem for empowerment. Reflecting on its creation, Karyn shares, “When we created ‘Superwoman,’ it came from a deeply emotional place—a real, raw expression of what so many women feel but don’t always say out loud. I wanted to give voice to the strength, vulnerability, and quiet sacrifices women make every day.”

While she didn’t initially realize the impact it would have, the song resonated deeply with audiences, particularly women, who saw their own struggles and triumphs reflected in its lyrics. “When women started telling me how the song mirrored their lives, I understood it was more than a hit—it became an anthem,” Karyn says.

Known as “The Queen of New Jack Swing,” Karyn White was instrumental in shaping the music scene of the late ’80s and early ’90s. “It was an electric time—full of innovation and energy,” she recalls. Collaborating with legends like L.A. Reid and Babyface, she brought a strong, feminine voice to a genre often dominated by men. “We weren’t trying to make history—we were being true to the moment. But looking back, I’m proud I helped define a sound that still echoes in today’s music.”

For Karyn, “Superwoman” remains a deeply personal song. “It’s my love letter to women everywhere. It’s about being seen, heard, and valued,” she explains. Over the years, the song has inspired countless fans, giving them the strength to make bold decisions, speak up, or simply love themselves more. “That kind of connection—that’s the true power of music,” she says.

While “Superwoman” holds a special place in her heart, Karyn’s discography is filled with other iconic hits that showcase her versatility as an artist. “‘Love Saw It,’ my duet with Babyface, is right there too—it’s a timeless ballad full of heart. And ‘Secret Rendezvous’ showed my flirty, fun side,” she shares. “Each song represents a different facet of me as a woman and an artist.”

In 2022, Karyn received the Black Music Honors Soul Music Icon Award, a moment she describes as both emotional and affirming. “To be honored by my own community—by people who get the cultural significance of what we built—meant everything. It reminded me that my voice mattered, and still matters. That award wasn’t just for me—it was for every woman who dared to own her truth.”

Her voice, celebrated for its emotive power, has always been her greatest tool. “I don’t just sing—I feel,” Karyn explains. Inspired by legends like Aretha Franklin and Patti LaBelle, she strives to connect with her audience through raw emotion rather than technique alone. “That’s what I aim for every time.”

Beyond music, Karyn has expanded her creative vision through Karyn White Enterprises (KWE), her multimedia company. Her venture into film began with Gale & The Storm, a project loosely based on her own journey. “I’ve always been a storyteller, and film lets me take that to another level,” she says. Now, she’s developing projects that spotlight strong, dynamic women and untold Black stories. “I’m excited to build a legacy that lives on screen as powerfully as it does in music.”

Transitioning from a chart-topping artist to a multifaceted businesswoman came with its challenges. “Breaking out of the ‘just a singer’ box was tough,” she admits. “I had to reintroduce myself, gain new skills, and prove I belonged in the boardroom. But I leaned on faith, stayed focused, and built a team that saw my vision. Every setback became fuel. Reinvention is how I thrive.”

Karyn’s creativity continues to evolve, driven by life, culture, and the next generation. “I’m always asking, ‘What’s the next story? What haven’t I said yet?’ I believe in building something meaningful, not just trending. Creativity is how I grow, how I lead, and how I keep my soul lit.”

Through her music, business ventures, and storytelling, Karyn White has left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. To aspiring musicians, her advice is simple yet profound: “Know who you are. Stay authentic, protect your art, and learn the business. Talent opens the door, but discipline and vision keep it open. And never be afraid to evolve. The goal isn’t just to be hot—it’s to be legendary.”

Karyn White’s journey is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of reinvention. From chart-topping hits to groundbreaking ventures, she continues to inspire generations, proving that being a “Superwoman” is about embracing every facet of who you are.