Music & Movies Monday: Jill Scott, Ari Lennox, Kelly Rowland, Mary J., & Teyana T. Find out what these ladies have in common. Plus New Music & Returning TV.

Ari Lennox, Kelly Rowland, Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, & Teyana Taylor

Ari Lennox, Kelly Rowland, Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, & Teyana Taylor; these talented ladies have recently announced major plays beginning 2026 in motion. With recent announcements of album drops, movie releases, and a Las Vegas residency, it is evident they are declaring '26 to be their year! Teyana and Kelly are making more strides in acting; Mary is taking it to a new level, expanding into movie production; plus Ari and Jill are coming with new music right on time for the lovers who celebrate.

New Albums

• Ari Lennox is dropping her third studio album, "Vacancy," counting down to the release on 1/23/26. She's already given us a little taste of what listeners can expect with singles "Soft Girl Era", "Vacancy", and "Twin Flame". Ari collaborated with music producer Jermaine Dupri and switched up her sound. Some critics are not fond of it, while others, such as myself, are looking forward to hearing what her creative mind has drummed up.

• Miss Jill Scott is set to release "To Whom It May Concern " just before Valentine's Day on 2/13/26, making the project her 6th studio album. It has been a little over a decade since audiences were graced by the Philly Queen, and fans' anticipation is growing by the day.

Stay tuned and be certain to support both artists as they prepare to deliver fresh material in Q1.

New Singles

• Doechii clapped back at racist detractors with "Girl, get up" ft. SZA. Addressing all of the ridiculous industry plant rumors, online hate, and hinted at the upcoming release of a new album. She set the record straight, and shout-out to those who had her back, letting it be known that Doechii disrespect will not be tolerated. (Sparta kicks to all culture vultures). I've been running the streams up daily and feel every word. They really can't stand your vibe when you're anointed!

•  Dave & Tems debut their song "Radiance" with beautiful beachside visuals, and the on-camera chemistry has fans speculating whether their performance is a little more. Either way, the single is radiating romance and desire. Give it a listen if you have not done so already.

New Movies & TV

• Kelly Rowland recently announced that her new rom-com "Relationship Goals" will be available to stream on Prime Video on 2/4/2026. The film features co-star and eye candy Method Man. Based on the film's trailer, they can count on my viewership, as I tend to enjoy a bit of romantic tension disguised as witty banter.

• "Cross" is set to return for season 2 on Prime on 2/11/2026. If the writers are bringing the same energy from Season 1 and then some. Then audiences are sure to be in for a thrilling treat.  

• Halle Bailey has been promoting her new film "You, Me & Tuscany" In Theaters 4/10/26. An Italian romance brings lovers who were not originally intended to be together into an undeniable connection. I have marked my calendar for this one.

• Mary J Blige hit us with two big whammies at the top of the year. One is the release of her film "Be Happy," airing on Lifetime 2/7/2026, noting that she produced the movie and announced her Las Vegas Residency, occurring in Spring, May 1-9, and Summer, July 10-18.

• Major congratulatory praises to Teyana Taylor on her recent Golden Globe win. She is a multifaceted artist who has been grinding since her "My Sweet 16" days, and the victory was much deserved. The singer, actress, and creative director also announced her upcoming movie "The Rip" on Netflix, set to debut on 1/16/2026. As always, she is on her artistic grind, and I will be seated for this one as well.

Music and Movies for you to binge this winter season, as we await the warmer months. Enjoy!!!