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Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss: “So You Think You Can Dance” Alum & Former ‘Ellen’ DJ Dies at 40

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This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.

The unfortunate news confirming Stephen’s passing was released today on all major news outlets. A representative for Boss told NBC News he died by suicide.

Stephen “tWitch” Boss, is known as the popular “So You Think You Can Dance” alum and as the former DJ for “Ellen DeGeneres Show”. The official news was reported by his wife, fellow dancer Allison Holker Boss. She confirmed the news with the following statement to CNN:

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share my husband Stephen has left us,” Holker Boss said in a statement. “Stephen lit up every room he stepped into. He valued family, friends and community above all else and leading with love and light was everything to him. He was the backbone of our family, the best husband and father, and an inspiration to his fans.”

“To say he left a legacy would be an understatement, and his positive impact will continue to be felt,” she added. “I am certain there won’t be a day that goes by that we won’t honor his memory. We ask for privacy during this difficult time for myself and especially for our three children.”

No further information was provided regarding the cause of his death. Stephen was only 40 years old.

Holker Boss concluded her statement to CNN by saying “Stephen, we love you, we miss you, and I will always save the last dance for you.”

The couple celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary just days ago.

His final instagram post was a ‘shared posted’ released by his wife Allison on Monday showing the two of them dancing in front of the Christmas tree. His wife’s message under the post read “HOLIDAY SUNDAY FUNDAY DANCE!! With my lover @sir_twitch_alot.”

This beautiful pair met when they were all-star dancers on Season 7 of “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2010.

“We shared a dance at the wrap party of that season of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and we have been together ever since,” Boss told People in February.

“There was no dialogue, there was no conversation or a first hangout. Literally, we danced and we were together holding hands the very next day,” Holker Boss added. “And we never looked back.”

Most Recent Work

After leaving the Ellen show in 2020 where he had recently been promoted as the co-producer of the show, ‘tWitch’ returned to “So You Think You Can Dance”. In February of 2022, he and his wife announced the launch of the new Athleisure line “Fly” with Dicks Sporting Goods where they served as the new brand ambassadors.

Most recently, ‘tWitch’ and Allison both appeared with major roles in the new Disney film “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” which released on Nov 25th, 2022.

Responses started to flood social media Wednesday morning from celebrities and fans:

“I’m heartbroken,” wrote Ellen DeGeneres on Instagram alongside a photo of the pair hugging. “tWitch was pure love and light. He was my family, and I loved him with all my heart. I will miss him. Please send your love and support to Allison and his beautiful children — Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia.”

Ciara –
“I am so crushed to hear the news that you are no longer with us. I’ve always known you as joy, laughter, good times and a big smile! Heaven has gained an angel today! May you rest in paradise. Praying for your family during this difficult time. (see full tweet)

Viola Davis –
“I’m at a loss for words right now, praying for his family and loved ones.” (see full tweet)

Valentin –
“This is not possible. I am absolutely lost for any words or comprehension. Heartbreaking.” (see full tweet)

Mickey Guyton –
“You just never truly know what anyone is going through. Check on your loved ones. Always be good to people. Man this one hurts.” (see full tweet)

Yvette Nicole Brown –
“What is going on?! This news has broken my heart. I’ve loved him since #SYTYCD. He was always so joyful & full of life. Always. Oh tWich!
If you are feeling despair PLEASE call 988. #PleaseStay” (see full tweet)

Kirk Franklin –
“My heartfelt condolences to Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss’s family… beautiful children, beautiful wife. It’s really heartbreaking…” (see his full message here)



The responses continue to flood social media after the release of this news. Please join the ArtSoul Radio family as we continue to keep the family, friends and loved ones of tWitch in prayer during this difficult time.

Tamara is the founder of ArtSoulRadio.com and a contributor for Ebony/Jet Magazine and other publications. She also works in TV/Film production and has a strong passion for the arts, community outreach, teaching and working with the youth. Learn more at www.tamarallyoung.com and follow her on social media.

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Hulvey and Ciara Announce “Altar” Remix Releasing This Friday!

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Hulvey announced on Instagram today that he will be releasing a surprise remix of his single “Altar” with the Ciara! This was unexpected, but we’re here for it!

On Easter, April 1st of this year, Hip Hop artist Hulvey received the surprise of his life when Ciara and her Husband Russel posted a clip of her family celebrating Easter using his song “Altar” in the background. Who knew that this would have led to the release of a new remix of the single together! Did this come as a surprise to you as much as it did for us?

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Legendary Producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins Launches New Christian Music Label Alienz Alive!

Tamara Young McCoy

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Legendary Producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins recently announced the official launch of his new label “Alienz Alive”! His starting roster for this faith based label includes some of the hottest names in CHH and Christian R&B/Soul music: Gawvi, Jonkeith, Alex Jean, Imrsqd and TJCarroll.

Darkchild’s Production credits include a number of celebrity greats such as Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Justin Beiber, Whitney Houston, Brandy and too many more to name! And according to his vision, he is looking to bring that same diversity of sound to his new label. Speaking of the label’s direction of sound, Jerkins shared, “Sonically speaking the influences are Hip Hop, R&B, and Indie Rock. As long as it glorifies God and it’s dope, all are welcome.”

While many are surprised by a mainstream producer of this calliber creating a faith based label, others who have followed his career know that he has been both Gospel and “CHH” adjacent for years. Jerkins who rapped in church as a child and was featured in Kirk Franklin’s song “Revolution” reflects on launching a company that aligns with his faith describing it as a full circle moment:

“When I first thought about launching a new company, I knew I had to do something that reflected my faith. What’s crazy, and people might not know this; I was rapping in church as a kid. I was also featured on Kirk Franklin’s Revolution so this is a full circle moment for me because now I’m doing something revolutionary by launching this label. Alienz Alive is a collaborative community of creatives that are Christ-centered where artist development is key. We encourage our artists to use their gifts to uplift and inspire. Sonically speaking the influences are Hip Hop, R&B, and Indie Rock. As long as it glorifies God and it’s dope, all are welcome.”

There is a lot of new movement in the music industry right now that is bringing more attention than ever to Christian music as more mainstream labels, producers and more are entering this space. Let us know your thoughts about it all on IG! Join the conversation!

We want to hear from you… 

CLICK BELOW TO JOIN THE CONVERSATION ON INSTAGRAM: 

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Reflecting On The 1st Black Women to Own An NFL Team: Venus And Serena Are Still Winning

Tamara Young McCoy

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As part of ArtSoul Radio’s 365 Initiative to support Black & BIPOC-owned businesses throughout the year, this is a story worth reviewing.

In 2009, Venus and Serena Williams became minority owners of the Miami Dolphins, making them the first Black women to own an NFL franchise. Since then, the growth of their investment has been remarkable. In 2009, the Dolphins were valued at 1 billion dollars. By 2023, 14 years later, the Miami Dolphins were valued at 4.6 billion dollars.

Despite the fact that 70% of the league’s players are Black, the majority of NFL ownership remains white. However, Venus and Serena became the first Black women to own an NFL team, creating a pathway for others to follow. Following their lead, Mellody Hobson became the third Black woman to become a minority team owner in 2022. Lewis Hamilton and Condoleezza Rice joined the list when they purchased a stake in the Denver Broncos. In 2023, Magic Johnson became a minority owner of the Washington Commanders.

Venus and Serena Williams are true trailblazers! Forbes reported in 2022 that Venus was the second highest-paid female athlete. Their investment in the Miami Dolphins, in partnership, is not only changing the investment landscape but also breaking barriers both on and off the court.

Their success in business complements their legendary status in tennis. Their investment in the Miami Dolphins is just one example of how they are reshaping the investment landscape. It’s inspiring to see them use their platform and influence to make an impact beyond tennis!

With their track record, their investment is bound to yield excellent results. It’s only a matter of time before we see the first Black majority owner of an NFL team.

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