10 Moments in Culture That Shook the Culture in 2025 (So Far)

Pynnderella, The Fairytale Connoisseur for Hype Hair

The glass slipper may be off, but my pyn is down — let’s get into it.

2025 is already proving to be a defining year for Black culture: loud, proud, and unapologetically in control of its narrative. From music stages to boardrooms, and from fashion runways to digital spaces, Black excellence is rewriting the rules in real time. Here’s a deep dive into the moments you can’t afford to miss.

1. Kendrick Lamar’s BET Awards Sweep and the Gospel Category Debate

Kendrick took home multiple wins at the 2025 BET Awards, reaffirming his reign as one of hip-hop’s greatest storytellers. But the show wasn’t without its controversy. When GloRilla snagged the Gospel/Inspirational song award despite being a rap artist, the internet and especially Black Twitter, did not hold back. The debate sparked important conversations about genre boundaries and representation, reminding us that Black excellence includes accountability.

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2. The Studio Museum in Harlem’s Triumphant Return

After seven years and nearly $200 million spent, the Studio Museum in Harlem reopened with a sleek new building designed by Adjaye Associates. This landmark isn’t just a gallery, it’s a cultural fortress preserving and promoting Black art, history, and identity. The reopening has energized artists, curators, and community members alike, cementing Harlem’s place as a global cultural capital.

3. Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour: More Than a Concert — a Cultural Movement

Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour continues to shatter records and expectations. The tour isn’t just about the music; it’s a full experience. From dazzling choreography and fashion moments that pay homage to Black history, to the collective energy of packed stadiums, the Renaissance era feels like a renaissance of Black joy, creativity, and power on the world stage.

4. Rihanna’s Fenty Empire and Louis Vuitton Takeover

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty remains a powerhouse in redefining beauty standards globally, championing inclusivity and innovation. Simultaneously, her creative input on Louis Vuitton’s menswear line with Pharrell Williams has elevated her status from music icon to global fashion mogul. Rihanna isn’t just participating, she’s pioneering new blueprints for Black female leadership in luxury.

5. Summer Walker’s Raw, Real, and Revolutionary Album Drop

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Summer Walker’s 2025 album landed as a fearless exploration of vulnerability and strength, especially within the context of Black womanhood. Her lyrics grapple with love, mental health, and societal pressures, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike. Summer’s authenticity continues to push conversations on what Black female artists can and should say.

6. Black-Owned Beauty Brands Taking Over the Market

From indie startups to established brands, 2025 has been a breakout year for Black-owned beauty companies expanding into mainstream retail. Brands like Juvia’s Place, Briogeo, and Mented Cosmetics aren’t just selling products — they’re reclaiming narratives around Black beauty, hair, and skin care, challenging centuries of exclusion and invisibility in the industry.

7. Issa Rae’s New HBO Series Shines a Spotlight on Black Life

Issa Rae’s latest HBO show has been praised for its sharp writing and fresh perspective on Black experiences. Mixing humor with social commentary, the series dives into topics often ignored on mainstream TV, from mental health to generational wealth, connecting deeply with audiences hungry for nuanced storytelling.

8. Lil Baby’s Dual Role as Rapper and Activist

Lil Baby continues to use his platform beyond music. His vocal support for criminal justice reform and community investment projects shows a growing movement of Black artists refusing to separate art from activism. His new music this year reflects that balance, fierce, honest, and unapologetically real.

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9. Black Fashion Weeks Amplify Global Influence

Black Fashion Weeks in cities like Lagos and Atlanta are fast becoming the must-watch events of the year. Designers are fusing tradition with innovation, spotlighting African textiles alongside cutting-edge streetwear. These weeks are no longer niche, they’re the blueprint for global fashion’s next era.

10. Black TikTok Creators Command the Viral Conversation

From dance trends to political commentary, Black creators on TikTok are not just participants… they’re the trendsetters. Their ability to blend entertainment with education is shifting how culture is consumed and created. 2025’s viral moments are often birthed in these digital spaces, shaping everything from music charts to social justice movements.

The culture isn’t just moving, it’s exploding with Black brilliance. This year is another chapter in a long story of influence, resilience, and leadership that refuses to be sidelined.

The culture moves fast, but my ink is quicker.

Pynnderella

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