Covers
Mario: A Blueprint for Timeless R&B
Before the chart positions, before the platinum plaques and sold-out tours, Mario was a kid from Baltimore learning how to survive. Born and raised in the city, he grew up in a crowded household where 18 people shared one roof, anchored by his mother and his grandmother — the woman he credits as the spiritual...
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How McKinley Freeman Creates the Calm and Chaos Behind Lewis on ‘Reasonable Doubt’
It was mid-November of 2025 when I had the incredible opportunity to speak virtually with Reasonable Doubt star McKinley Freeman. Many of us first fell for him when he stole our hearts years ago as Derrick on VH1’s popular scripted series, Hit the Floor. Now, he’s once again keeping the group chats buzzing as Lewis...
The French Montana Revolution: Eyes on the Throne
“I wake up in the mornin’ to a fresh start / Let’s talk / Countin’ up the bread be the best part / Yellow Mazzaraati / Coke Boyz license plate / Nice day / Dealin’ through the hurdles gettin’ life straight…” And just like that, French Montana is Ready to Go… Born Karim Karbouch in...
December 30, 2025
Jeremih – Beyond the Beats
Beast-like beats, captivating the attention of any circumferential ear, boom brashly through the speakers of a stereo. Vibrations echo from the sensual turnt sounds shot by bullets of creative brilliance. Simultaneously relatable and alluring lyrics reverberate with such conviction that it’s challenging for a listener not to shout the phrase, “That’s my s**t!” Meanwhile, a...
December 30, 2025
Keith Powers: I've Got The Powers
Actor Keith Powers’humility would hang sloppily off a man twice his age.It’s a character traitusually earned by a man with some wrinkles and knuckles worn and callusedfrom the seasons of life leveling his pride. But at 23 years old, Powers, though physically groomed and polished externally, carries an internal wisdom that supersedes his youthful appearance....
December 30, 2025
Issue 14 — Hal Linton: King of the Replay
Coverage includes fall trends across suiting, accessories, footwear, and menswear essentials. The issue pays homage to Harlem, features icon André Leon Talley, and includes travel to San Francisco. Dive into this issue to revisit a refined take on legacy, style, and cultural continuity.
December 30, 2025
Nipsey Hussle: Breaking Rules. Making Money. Reppin’ Hip Hop
As the music industry’s business model has evolved over the past decade, so has the mindset of artists looking to secure a spot in the ever-changing musical landscape. Gone is the era of massive first-week album sales, massive music video budgets, and even needing a label. These days independent artists can make substantial impact without...
December 30, 2025
YFN Lucci: The Fly Guy
The Young, Fly, and oh so Stylish rapper Rayshawn Bennett, better known as YFN Lucci came on to the music scene just a few years ago and from the looks of it, he won’t be going anywhere any time soon. With previous hits like “Everyday We Lit”, featuring PnB Rock, and “Key to the Streets”,...
December 30, 2025
Issue 13 — Brian White: Jack of All Trades
Inside are features on Shontelle, summer kicks, and travel to London, UK. Cultural highlights include Quincy Jones and artful living with Jayson Keeling. Explore this issue to see how Bleu celebrated range, adaptability, and summer culture.
December 30, 2025
Allow Diggy Simmons To Re-Introduce Himself
Diggy Simmons ain’t new to this shit. Although he’s just 23 years old, the Atlantic Records signee has been casually killing the game for nearly ten years. When he was just 14, the son of Run-D.M.C.’s Rev Run and the nephew of music mogul Russell Simmons released his first mixtape, The First Flight, which was...
December 30, 2025
Issue 17 — Pooch Hall: Determination, Passion, Focus
The issue includes summer travel guides, Detroit’s comeback story, and contemporary style-hunting features. Appearances include Lance Gross, Cory Hardrict, Daisha, with icon Will Smith also featured. Open this issue to experience Bleu’s perspective on ambition, resilience, and modern masculinity.
December 30, 2025
BIG BOI: Vicious Lies + Dangerous Rumors
All I know is Big here, Dre Gone / Moved On,” Killer Mike proclaimed on his record “Dungeon Family Dedication.” The track was released in 2005, but the verse speaks volumes over what exists of the group, Outkast, whose influence peers over hip-hop like a golden, luminous cloud. The world hasn’t heard an Outkast record...
December 30, 2025
Marcus Scribner Is The ‘Black-ish’ Nerd Inside All of Us
As a child, Marcus Scribner’s passion for characters, and fantasy novels led him to his current role as Andre Johnson, Jr. on Black-ish. We follow him on his journey into acting. “Stay tuned for the future because a lot of things are on the horizon. The hustle never stops. Don’t expect me to lay down...
December 30, 2025
Issue 11 — Ryan Leslie: Transition Complete
The issue explores themes of sex, drama, and power across music and culture. Features include Mariah Carey, Robin Thicke’s Seduction 101, Fantasia, and travel to Paris, France. Revisit this issue to explore ambition, style, and creative evolution at the turn of the decade.
December 30, 2025
The Infamous Joe Budden
I was popping Mollys all summer. When I was doing it, I hadn’t slept in five days. It has a lot of side effects, a lot of side effects,” states Budden in his signature gravely tone. The Love & Hip-Hop star’s ongoing struggle with drugs is not something that he hides from. Since the release...
December 30, 2025
Spiritual Initiation Into EARTHGANG
Atlanta hip-hop is on the verge of an alternative Black renaissance, and Southern bred rap duo EARTHGANG is leading the forward momentum of the culture. With lyrical and aesthetic stylings reminiscent of artsy rap pioneers, OutKast, EARTHGANG’s music represents a new wave of free thought overtaking archaic ideas of Black American decorum. Departing thematically from...
December 30, 2025
Issue 7 — Black Boys Are Beautiful
The issue revisits Mahogany through a contemporary lens and features table dancing with Nomi. Appearances include Ciara, John Legend, Letoya Luckett, Lee Hayes, and E. Lynn Harris. Discover this striking cover to experience one of Bleu’s clearest early statements on Black masculinity and beauty.
December 30, 2025
Bera: Music Is Love
“I live with my music,” says pop newcomer Bera, who at age one couldn’t walk or talk, but knew how to turn on the radio. “I was attracted to music when I was born.” Gifted with perfect pitch, he was handed a violin at age five and started piano two years later. He’s classically trained,...
December 30, 2025
Serge Ibaka: My Time
The energy that filled the Oracle Arena on June 12, 2019 was palpable. High-strung Golden State Warriors fans were in objection to the Toronto Raptors’ coronation. It was Dub Nation’s final showdown in the historical stadium. Their dynasty was being overthrown by a vigilant Toronto team. So much for a home-court advantage. What happens when...
December 30, 2025
Issue 4 — Kelly Rowland: The Sexy Issue
From Top 25 White Boy Crushes to The Boy of Summer: Bobby Valentino, the issue blends celebrity, intimacy, and spectacle. Additional features include John Amaechi’s next move, DJ Call Out, and Bleu Star Melvin White. Open this issue to explore how Bleu approached sexuality and cultural fascination at the time.
December 30, 2025
Tinie Tempah: Written in the Stars
Though America is the ‘’Holy Grail’’ in terms of hip-hop. The first time I came it was overwhelming, like the overwhelming land where you’ve heard dreams have come true. It’s been six years since Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu, better known as Tinie Tempah released his debut album Disc-Overy. It was a dream start for the London...
December 30, 2025
The Gospel According to Ryan Leslie
The good news is this: we all have the ability to turn a mess into a message. At least that’s the “word” multi-talented, Ryan Leslie wants you to take home. Bleu spoke to the music and business visionary about his mission, his music and our collective future. The air outside the William Vale hotel in...
December 30, 2025
Issue 10 — Wendy Williams: Uncensored for the First Time
Inside, readers will find The Confessions of Maxwell, new Trey Songz, and Electrik Red. The issue also includes Bleu’s tribute to Michael Jackson and travel features from Barcelona, Spain. Step into this issue to revisit an unfiltered moment in media and pop culture during a pivotal year.
December 30, 2025
The Great Tahj Mowry
I have been playing a mean game of phone tag with Tahj, and after weeks, we finally connect. It is 2pm in New York City and 11am in Los Angeles. “Don’t be alarmed if you hear birds and other animals in the background,” cautions Mowry, “I basically live in the jungle.” Navigating the unknown field...
December 30, 2025
Lucien Laviscount: The Accidental Actor
The invasion of British talent into American culture continues with the arrival of Lucien Laviscount. Last seen in the Sony-Crackle TV adaption of Guy Ritchie’s Snatch, the actor has performed in a wide variety of roles throughout his career. From British independent films, like Honeytrap, to the STX horror movie The Bye Bye Man. From...
December 30, 2025
Issue 9 — Trina: Revealed
The Spring 2009 issue frames the rapper beyond persona, presenting vulnerability alongside confidence. Travel My Planet Bleu heads to Washington, D.C., while the issue celebrates the Top 25 Women We Love. Fitness and lifestyle take focus with a fast-get-fit feature led by Jamel Davenport. Additional appearances include Day 26 discussing their sophomore album and Chrisette...
December 30, 2025