

Dear Queen:
I'm no expert on life, love, relationships, or religion. I just know pain when I see it.
I, too, have felt its familiar harness close to my mind, heart, and soul--the pain's gripping circulation grappling at all of who you are. My heart breaks most days thinking of you crying yourself to sleep at night. I often wonder if one day the hurt will seem just too hard to bear and you will decide tomorrow is not worth witnessing. I wish there was something I could do to make it all stop. To make you feel like you could wake up and this would all be over, but I can't.
Just let me tell you what I know to be true.
Life will sometimes make you feel as if you will be broken irrevocably. Situations will come along frequently without warning to make you lose sense of yourself, to make you feel lost, to make you feel miserable…even desperate at times. You will begin to settle in with worthlessness whispering in your ear. It will disturb you at every waking moment and taunt you until you listen. You will flail and scrape for shame the glue holding the remnants of you together.
You will live and breathe out of emotions that will take its toll on you and you won't even recognize yourself.
Dear Queen, that's not you. None of that is you.
Somewhere along the lines you've developed life patterns, more like love patterns, of worry, of doubt, of anxiousness. You've acquired these false images and saw yourself in the frame. Too much time you've spent on disguised brief satisfactions of love due to typical fixations.
Too much time you've spent doubting everything because one person taught you, you weren't anything. You weren't worthy.
Dear Queen, that's not you. None of that is you.
In that moment, you didn't know it was second-rate love and the real thing you had to wait on. In that moment, you didn't give your heart permission to be trampled upon.
In that moment, you didn't know that sometimes your first source of love could be the first source of your pain.
Now you're burned and you're searching and assessing through your insecurities because you didn't know. Now you're doing things that at times you know are wrong because it's easy and it's comfortable. Because you didn't know.
Dear Queen, that's not you. None of that is you.
It's not your fault. Someone once told me, “Good people make mistakes too."
You can't do anything about what you didn't know, but you can do something with what you've learned.
Dear Queen, you're not burned because of your past, nor due to your mistakes.
You're burned because you're walking around with half of yourself knowing you're counterfeit, but you're pretending you're whole.
You can't keep trying to pass off a facade of yourself.
To him. To her. To another friend. To another relationship.
You can't keep doing that.
You'll lose them.
You'll lose yourself.
Dear Queen, that's not you. None of that is you.
Only for so long can you keep cohabitating with life in brokenness.
There is no way you can make sense of it all.
You must go through the process of becoming whole again and it won't be easy.
It will probably be the most difficult thing you will ever have to do. I don't know nor do I have all the answers. But I do know who does--God. God can reverse it all. He will rescue you in your pain, but you have to stop hiding just because it hurts.
Don't you keep missing your moment because you are worried, afraid, or ashamed. Take a chance on you today.
All those things you've dreamed about are still being worked out. There are more opportunities waiting on you. The best thing you can do right now, in this moment, is to become intimate with God by becoming intimate with yourself.
Dear Queen--It is my prayer for you that you will take the sweetest baptismal in God's love.
That you will be so enmeshed by God that you are one, purified by his grace and mercy.
And you will walk upright knowing your sufficiency by knowing His.
-xo
Dominique
Dear Queen is a series dedicated to letters from women written for themselves and other women. Have a “Dear Queen" letter or a personal essay you'd like to submit? We want to read it! E-mail your submissions to editor@xonecole.com.
This letter is written by Dominique Mack, a writer, counselor, and advocate whose vision is to help people heal through their own stories. She hails from Brunswick, GA and regularly blogs for those finding their way at: A Regular Girl Who Loves The Lord.
Featured image by Getty Images
'He Said, She Said': Love Stories Put To The Test At A Weekend For Love
At the A Weekend For Love retreat, we sat down with four couples to explore their love stories in a playful but revealing way with #HeSaidSheSaid. From first encounters to life-changing moments, we tested their memories to see if their versions of events aligned—because, as they say, every story has three sides: his, hers, and the truth.
Do these couples remember their love stories the same way? Press play to find out.
Episode 1: Indira & Desmond – Love Across the Miles
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but for Indira & Desmond, love made it stronger. Every mile apart deepened their bond, reinforcing the unshakable foundation of their relationship. From their first "I love you" to the moment they knew they had found home in each other, their journey is a beautiful testament to the endurance of true love.
Episode 2: Jay & Tia – A Love Story Straight Out of a Rom-Com
If Hollywood is looking for its next Black love story, they need to take notes from Jay & Tia. Their journey—from an awkward first date to navigating careers, parenthood, and personal growth—proves that love is not just about romance but also resilience. Their story is full of laughter, challenges, and, most importantly, a love that stands the test of time.
Episode 3: Larencia & Mykel – Through the Highs and Lows
A date night with police helicopters overhead? Now that’s a story! Larencia & Mykel have faced unexpected surprises, major life changes, and 14 years of choosing each other every single day. But after all this time, do they actually remember things the same way? Their episode is sure to bring some eye-opening revelations and a lot of laughs.
Episode 4: Soy & Osei – A Love Aligned in Purpose
From a chance meeting at the front door to 15 years of unwavering love, faith, and growth, Soy & Osei prove that when two souls are aligned in love and purpose, nothing can shake their foundation. Their journey is a powerful reminder that true love is built on mutual support, shared values, and a deep connection that only strengthens with time.
Each of these couples has a unique and inspiring story to tell, but do their memories match up? Watch #HeSaidSheSaid to find out!
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As the self-proclaimed “concert queen,” I’ve danced my way through countless venues, basking in the euphoria that only live music can deliver.
From the heart-thumping bass of my favorite hip-hop anthems to the soulful serenades of R&B legends, my adventures have been a harmonious blend of rhythm, culture, and, of course, delectable cuisine. Each festival I’ve attended has been a unique chapter in my live music journey, offering not just performances but immersive experiences that celebrate art, community, and flavor.
Reflecting on my escapades, festivals like Rolling Loud, Roots Picnic, Essence Fest, and One Music Fest have been more than just events—they’ve been transformative odysseys.
The electrifying energy of the crowds, the discovery of emerging artists, and the shared moments of unity have solidified my love for these gatherings. They are living testaments to music’s unparalleled ability to bridge divides and foster a sense of belonging.
As 2025 unfolds, the festival circuit is buzzing with anticipation, promising an array of events that are sure to ignite your musical passions. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a curious newcomer, here’s a curated list of must-attend festivals that should be on your radar:
Rolling Loud California (Los Angeles, CA) - March 15-16, 2025
Sexyy Red
Scott Legato/ Getty Images
Kicking off the festival season with a bang, Rolling Loud returns to Los Angeles, promising a weekend of unparalleled hip-hop performances. This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, with headliners like A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti set to ignite the stage. Adding a unique flair, Mexican sensation Peso Pluma joins as a special guest, bringing his distinctive sound to the mix.
Tickets are flying off the shelves, with General Admission passes starting at $179 and VIP options offering exclusive perks for $499. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles, attendees can indulge in the city’s eclectic food scene, making this festival a feast for both the ears and the taste buds.
2025 Performers: A$AP Rocky, Playboi Carti, YG, Sexyy Red, Quavo, Gelo, Bossman Dlow, Peso Pluma
2024 Performers: Nicki Minaj, Post Malone, Future x Metro Boomin, YG & Tyga, Party Next Door, Summer Walker, Don Toliver, Bryson Tiller, Big Sean, Sexyy Red
Dreamville Festival (Raleigh, NC) - April 5-6, 2025
Curated by the legendary J. Cole, Dreamville Festival has swiftly become a beacon for hip-hop and R&B aficionados. Nestled in Raleigh’s scenic Dorothea Dix Park, the festival offers more than just music; it’s a celebration of community and culture. While the official 2025 lineup is under wraps, whispers in the wind suggest appearances by heavyweights, making this final edition a grand finale not to be missed.
Ticket options cater to various preferences, with General Admission passes and VIP packages that promise an elevated experience. Beyond the music, attendees can explore Raleigh’s burgeoning culinary scene, with the festival itself offering a smorgasbord of local delights.
2025 Performers: TBA
2024 Performers: SZA, 50 Cent, J. Cole, Nicki Minaj, J.I.D., Lil Yatchy, Schoolboy Q, Sexyy Red, Jeremiah, Rema, Jeezy, Monica, and more.
EmpowHER Festival (Los Angeles, CA) - May 10, 2025
Kehlani
Photo by Erika Goldring/WireImage
EmpowHER Festival isn’t just a festival; it’s a movement celebrating women’s empowerment, creativity, and artistry. Set in the heart of Los Angeles, this one-day extravaganza brings together female artists for a day of unforgetttable performances. While this is the inaugural festival, the incredible lineup includes trailblazers like Kehlani and Jazmine Sullivan making it a must-attend for those passionate about female empowerment.
Early bird General Admission (GA) tickets are currently available at a 20% discount, bringing the price to under $200. As the festival date approaches, ticket prices are expected to increase, so securing your spot early is recommended. For the most up-to-date ticket information and purchases, visit the official EmpowHER website or authorized ticket vendors.
2025 Performers: Kehlani, Jazmine Sullivan, Normani, Saweetie, Flo Milli, and more.
Roots Picnic (Philadelphia, PA) - May 31-June 1, 2025
Curated by the legendary Roots crew, Roots Picnic is a melting pot of music, culture, and activism. Having grooved my way through its vibrant atmosphere before, I can attest to its eclectic lineups that span genres from hip-hop to indie rock. The 2025 edition promises to uphold this tradition, with anticipated performances from both established and emerging artists.
Ticket information and lineup announcements are typically released closer to the event date. Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant food scene further enhance the festival experience, offering attendees a chance to explore the city’s cultural landmarks and culinary offerings.
2025 Performers: D’Angelo, Meek Mill, Lenny Kravitz, GloRilla, Miguel, Tems, Latto, Kaytranada, Jeezy, Pusha T & 2 Chainz, Musiq Soulchild, The Roots, and more.
2024 Performers: Jill Scott, Lil Wayne, Nas, Victoria Monét, Gunna, Fantasia, Muni Long, Method Man & Redman, Scarface, Amerie, Sexyy Red, Babyface, Wale, Tyla, and more.
BET Experience (Los Angeles, CA) - June 5-8, 2025
Cardi B
Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for BET
The BET Experience is a multi-day celebration leading up to the annual BET Awards, featuring concerts, celebrity panels, and interactive exhibits. Held in Los Angeles, this event captures the essence of Black culture and entertainment.
Details about the 2025 lineup and ticket pricing are yet to be announced, but past experiences have included performances by top artists and exclusive access to industry events, making it a cornerstone event for music lovers.
2025 Performers: TBA
2024 Performers: Cardi B, Gunna, Davido, Sexyy Red, The Roots, Queen Latifah, Common, and more.
Essence Fest (New Orleans, LA) - July 3-6, 2025
Essence Fest, affectionately known as the “party with a purpose,” is a vibrant celebration of Black culture, music, and empowerment. My previous escapades at this festival were nothing short of magical, with its blend of soulful performances, enlightening panel discussions, and a community atmosphere that feels like a family reunion. The 2025 edition is expected to feature a stellar lineup of artists, though official announcements are pending.
Tickets typically range from General Admission to VIP packages, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets. Set in the lively city of New Orleans, attendees can also immerse themselves in the local culture, savoring Creole cuisine and exploring historic sites, making it a holistic cultural experience.
2025 Performers: TBA
2024 Performers: Birdman, Usher, Janet Jackson, The Roots, Mickey Guyton, Busta Rhymes, Charlie Wilson, Victoria Monét, SWV, Frankie Beverly, Tank, Ginuwine, Tyrese, and more.
Broccoli City Festival (Washington, D.C.) – July 12-13, 2025
Victoria Monét
Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images
If you’re looking for a festival that brings the vibes and the vision, Broccoli City Festival is it! Taking over Washington, D.C., this two-day celebration is more than just a music festival—it’s a movement. Dedicated to uplifting Black culture, sustainability, and community empowerment, BC Fest blends fire performances with social impact, making you feel good inside and out.
The 2025 lineup is still under wraps, but if past years are any indication (think: Lil Wayne, Megan Thee Stallion, and Burna Boy), we’re in for a show. Plus, with D.C. as the backdrop, you already know the food is going to be top-tier. Expect local eats, poppin’ day parties, and a city full of festival-goers keeping the energy high all weekend long. Whether you’re there for the music, the mission, or just the chance to rock a fly festival fit, BC Fest is a must for your summer lineup.
2025 Performers: TBA
2024 Performers: Megan Thee Stallion, Victoria Monét, Gunna, Kaytranada, Party Next Door, Lil Yaychy, Teezo Touchdown, Fridayy, Skilla Baby, Sexyy Red, Key Glock, and more.
One Music Fest (Atlanta, GA) - October TBA, 2025
As an Atlanta native, One Music Fest holds a special place in my heart. This festival has consistently showcased a diverse array of artists, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the city. While the exact dates and lineup for 2025 are yet to be confirmed, past festivals have featured a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and alternative acts that cater to a wide audience.
Ticket pricing and performer details will be announced as the event approaches. In the meantime, festival-goers can look forward to exploring Atlanta’s dynamic food scene and cultural landmarks, making it a holistic experience that celebrates both music and community
2025 Performers: TBA
2024 Performers: Latto, Gunna, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Nelly, Victoria Monet, GloRilla, Keyshia Cole, Sexyy Red, Ari Lennox, Fantasia, Method Man & Redman, and more.
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