News
MICHELLE WILLIAMS SPEAKS UP ABOUT HER PROGRESS WITH DEPRESSION
This summer, Michelle Williams announced to public that she checked herself into a facility for help with depression. She also admitted that this has been a an ongoing challenge in her life since she was 13 years old. But, it wasn’t until she reached her 30s that she realized her struggle had a name (depression). This gave her the direction she needed to find the best help for coping through this challenge moving forward. Since then, Michelle has been quietly putting in the work to get better.
This week, Michelle spoke up on instagram about her progress with depression, how she copes with people’s opinions since going public, her new bible plan through @youversion:
“You don’t look like you’ve been depressed to me!” I posted about this on Twitter a few weeks ago. That was a statement someone said to me. It almost made me feel guilty for doing the work to feel better, look better and BE BETTER!! I began to wonder how long was I supposed to walk around looking like what I had been through. Now don’t get it twisted, I definitely looked and felt a mess but I made the decision to get it together!! I look at new pictures of me now vs 10 weeks ago and I truly thank God for bringing me this far.
I hate to have this conversation again because my friends and family know that I’ve been here before. I just want to encourage someone to smile, get up, brush your teeth, comb your hair, shower, put some bronzer on, get a shape up, put some lotion on your ashy ankles, put something nice on. For those of you unfamiliar with someone going through something…..pray before you speak or just smile at them and keep it moving. With love!! ❤️ Ps: as my mom would say “I don’t wanna have to say this again!” ?Click the link in my bio for my bible plan I created with @YouVersion on anxiety and depression!” – Michelle Williams [See Instagram Post]
Michelle seems to be keeping herself surrounded by friends who are supportive of her journey. This includes her fiance Chad who she is scheduled to marry this year! Depression and other forms of mental health are very real issues. However, it doesn’t have to stop you from living life. Michelle is putting in the work to be sure that it doesn’t stop hers. There are ways to cope and it is possible to get better. The first step is being honest with yourself that you have some work to do. The second step is to let someone know how you feel so you can find direction to get the help that you need.
Depression is common. So, you will not be alone in your journey in finding your way to peace and hope. Michelle has recently created a new Bible plan to make sure everyone remembers that they are not alone while taking them along with her on her journey to healing. Watch what she has to say about it below:
RESOURCES:
If you have found yourself in a similar space, we encourage you to visit our friends at @anthemofhope. They specialize in helping people who are dealing with depression, self harm, suicide prevention and more. Visit their website today to find Christian Counselors, Marriage & Family Therapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists near you! www.anthemofhope.org.
Chicago was the backdrop for a moment you couldn’t script any better: GRAMMY®, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning powerhouse Jonathan McReynolds linking arms with American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts to deliver a live ballad that hits straight to the soul. Their new single, “Still,” isn’t just another worship record—it’s a reminder that God’s love is the one thing that doesn’t shift when life does.
Recorded live in McReynolds’ hometown, the song is lifted from his forthcoming project Closer—an album already carrying heavy anticipation. What unfolds in “Still” is classic Jonathan: heartfelt storytelling, layered with rich theology, now elevated by Roberts’ fresh, unshaken voice.
👉 Watch the live performance here.
Legacy Meets New Fire 🔥
Jonathan McReynolds has carved out a lane few can touch—an artist who makes Gospel feel as real as your group chat confessions. His catalog has always balanced honesty and worship, bringing Sunday morning depth into everyday playlists.
Enter Jamal Roberts: the new voice America fell in love with on American Idol. His win wasn’t just about vocal ability—it was about heart, authenticity, and the kind of presence that feels rare. Pairing him with McReynolds doesn’t just make sense; it feels prophetic. It’s the kind of intergenerational link-up that keeps Gospel fresh while honoring its roots.
The Vibe
With “Still,” Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts don’t just give us another Gospel single—they give us a soundtrack for resilience. It’s raw, it’s soulful, and it’s proof that the future of faith-based music is in good hands. Expect this one to be on repeat long after the Stellars.
Culture
ArtSoul Radio & Actor Empowerment Summit Host Sneak Peek of BET+ Series Churchy with KevOnStage at XL Film Fest
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
For those in Chicago, the August 17th event offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage live with KevOnStage and his cast. Can’t make it in person? Join the ArtSoul Radio community to gain exclusive access to the full panel replay after the event.
Click here to sign up and stay connected. Community members will be the first to receive:
- A private link to the full panel replay
- Behind-the-scenes clips and highlights
- Special giveaways tied to Churchy Season 2
Why This Event Matters
Partnering with XL Film Fest and The Actor Empowerment Summit to bring this BET+ collaboration to Chicago is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural moment for faith-based media. It reflects the growth of Christian creatives in film, comedy, and storytelling while highlighting Chicago as a hub for innovative cultural conversations.
About Churchy
After debuting as one of the most-watched scripted comedies on BET+, Churchy quickly built a loyal fan base. Season 2 expands the storylines, bringing new characters, guest stars, and bigger laughs—all while spotlighting themes of faith, community, and resilience. Produced by KevOnStage Studios alongside industry leaders and executive producers like LeBron James and Maverick Carter (SpringHill), the show continues to elevate digital-first creators onto global platforms.
Culture
Holy Smoke! Festival 2025 Kicks Off This Week in Nashville — Full Guide, Lineup, Schedule, & How to Tap In
NEW MUSIC: Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts Deliver a Soulful Moment with “Still”
ArtSoul Radio & Actor Empowerment Summit Host Sneak Peek of BET+ Series Churchy with KevOnStage at XL Film Fest
Holy Smoke! Festival 2025 Kicks Off This Week in Nashville — Full Guide, Lineup, Schedule, & How to Tap In
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K-Ci of R&B Group Jodeci Shares Near Death Experience & How His Faith Helped Him Recover
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Watch Jonathan McReynolds Perform “God Is Good” and Discuss His New Book “Before You Climb Any Higher” on Tamron Hall
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