Stephen Spates

Asst. Prof. of Communication. Husband. Friend. Scholar. Communicator. Alumnus of Oakwood University-HBCU (BA), Western Michigan University (MA), and UTK (PhD).

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

Restart. Recharge. Redo. Rebuild. Restore. Revive. Rethink. Renew. Reroute. Remove. Reframe. Reset. Refresh. Reconnect. Resist. Reclaim. Reform. Relax. Relate. Release. Rejoice. #Hello2021 #HappyNewYear

[rolandsmartin @rolandsmartin]

BREAKING NEWS: With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson, announces his passing.

Internationally celebrated as the legendary voice behind the Oscar-winning Disney classics “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World,” Peabo also captivated audiences through timeless R&B classics, including “Feel the Fire,” “I’m So Into You,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” “If Ever You’re In My Arms Again" and "Reaching for the Sky” among many others.

He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 p.m. ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him.

For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments. His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song.

In this deeply difficult moment, the family asks for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, family member, friend and artist whose impact extended far beyond the stage.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” the family shared. “While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit. His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the compassion shown during this time and asks for continued privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss. They remain deeply appreciative of the prayers, love and support from around the world.

Celebration of life and memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date.

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

😂🤣😂 #BigFun

[TV One @tvonetv]

Vanessa thought she was gonna have big fun in Baltimore, but mama wasn't having that! 😂 Watch #TheCosbyShow weeknights at 6p/5c on TV One.

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

Great conversation on Crisis Communication from #CSCA https://t.co/BwZtoQAt1y

[NAACP @NAACP]

The NAACP is taking a stand. Today, we launch the #OutofBounds campaign, a national call to action for Black athletes, families, fans, and allies.

In response to states erasing Black voting representation after the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision, we are demanding accountability.

"Out of Bounds is our answer: we are naming the contradiction, and we are calling on Black athletes, families, fans, and consumers to act on it. The same power that built these programs can be redirected." —NAACP President and CEO @DerrickNAACP

This is about more than sports. It’s about justice. Learn more and join the movement: https://t.co/H3PDNjEeAL

[philip lewis @Phil_Lewis_]

The NAACP is urging Black athletes and fans to “withhold athletic and financial support” from public universities in states that “have moved to limit, weaken or erase Black voting representation”

[Detroit Pistons @DetroitPistons]

From the first tip-off to the final buzzer, y’all showed us love every single night.

Thank you to the best fans in the league for riding with us through it all this season.

Detroit Basketball. All the time. ❤️💙

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

Not what I wanted….BUT! They are a contender now! I believe they will be even better next year. What a great season! #DetroitBasketball

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

Excited for this opportunity! 💚🌍🤍
https://t.co/yjbNdqFXIl

[The Root @TheRoot]

Multiple Black celebrities, activists, and elected officials have raised their concerns in the wake of the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act and unfurled a host of redistricting battles across the country.

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

Happy Mother’s Day! Love you ma, forever and always! ❤️💐🕊️

[Stephen Spates @StephenSpates]

@ChowDownDetroit Fruit Punch is one of the best flavors. Can’t find it everywhere though.

[Detroit Pistons @DetroitPistons]

DEEETROIT BASKETBAAAAALLLLLLLL!!!

[ESPN @espn]

THE PISTONS COME BACK FROM A 3-1 DEFICIT TO ADVANCE 🔥

Detroit gets it done in Game 7 for their first playoff series win since 2008!

[Boston Celtics @celtics]

Heading back home 3-1 💪

[Detroit Pistons @DetroitPistons]

The National Basketball Coaches Association announced today that J.B. Bickerstaff is the 2026 recipient of the Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year Award.

[Detroit Pistons @DetroitPistons]

Your Detroit Pistons are the Central Division Champs. 🔥

[Steve Harvey @IAmSteveHarvey]

Discipline is doing it even when you don’t feel like it.

[BET @BET]

Kiki Shepard, the beloved co-host of Showtime at the Apollo, has passed away at 74.

In the 1980's at a time where women of color were rarely centered on television she stood as a symbol of elegance, glam, excellence, and cultural pride.

A Howard University graduate who finished in the top 10% of her class and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Shepard carried the legacy of Black excellence with her wherever she went.

Kiki Shepard leaves behind a legacy that is both timeless and deeply felt.
#KikiShepard #BETRemembers

[The Root @TheRoot]

Ryan Coogler won his first-ever Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for “Sinners.” Coogler is the second Black writer to win the award after Jordan Peele won for “Get Out” in 2018. “Sinners” broke the record for the most nominations — 16! — for any film in #Oscars history.

[NCAA March Madness @MarchMadnessMBB]

Michigan State is DANCING!

#MarchMadness @MSU_Basketball