The JamirSmith Show

Jamir Smith recaps the Los Angeles premiere of “Forever, This Ring,” featuring conversations with Erica Mena and Marques Houston about love, identity, trust, and the secrets behind a picture-perfect marriage. The psychological thriller, directed by Chris Stokes and starring Taye Diggs, explores what happens when the person you love isn't who you thought they were.

Leon has given us unforgettable performances in The Five Heartbeats, Cool Runnings, The Temptations and more. On The Jamir Smith Show, we talk about the man beyond those roles: finding his place in Hollywood, protecting his sense of self, and making music with Leon and the Peoples. We also reflect on fatherhood, longevity and the legacy he hopes to leave.

Today in Santa Monica at the opening of The Other Art Fair, I sat down with Daryll Cumbie, The Surgical Artist. After losing his childhood photos, he began painting the memories they held. We talked about what a painting can bring back, the upbringing behind his work, and what he hopes people feel when they live with it.https://www.thesurgicalartist.comhttps://www.theotherartfair.com

Today in Santa Monica during opening of The Other Art Show, I sat down with Kayla B. Miller of KB Art House. We talked about the Southern Black stories she pieces into her collages, why she's building a sanctuary for other artists, and what it takes to give yourself permission to begin.Follow: https://www.kbarthouse.com

Tonight on The Jamir Smith Show, I'm speaking with artists at the Black Music Action Coalition gala about the work behind their music and the change they want to see beyond it. BMAC brings artists and industry leaders together to push for racial equity in music and honor those using their platforms to make a difference.

Today on The Jamir Smith Show, I stepped inside The Horror Show at the Academy Museum and spoke with Amy Homma, the museum's Director and President; Jessica Niebel, Senior Exhibitions Curator; and Robert Englund, the actor behind Freddy Krueger. We talked about why horror stays with us and what this exhibition reveals about the stories that scare us.

@iamtishacampbell The A Word: A Mother's Journey Through Autism and Love Book Tour (LA).I got to support my friend during the LA stop of her book tour and sit down with her for a conversation that matters.I asked “What she hopes readers will do differently the next time they meet an autistic person or their family.”These conversations need room, especially within the Black community. Families deserve understanding and support. Autistic people deserve to be heard for who they are.Proud of you, Tisha! Thank you for sharing you & Xen's story, and making space for others to share theirs..@hollyrpeete thank you for being a vessel and moderating a beautiful conversation...@barnesandnoble @thegrovela .Full Interview @spotify @spotifypodcasts | The JamirSmith Show..#fyp #explore #love #autism

Today, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art officially opens its doors in Exposition Park.The grand-opening program begins at 8:00 a.m. with remarks from co-founders George Lucas and Mellody Hobson. The galleries open to media at 8:30 a.m. before the museum welcomes the public at 10:00 a.m.During the morning, I will speak with CEO Tracey Bates, architect Ma Yansong and Senior Curator and Head of Film Ryan Linkof about the vision behind this landmark institution.

Debbie Allen and I had an amazing conversation about how quickly and intentionally showrunner Felicia Pride brought the new A Different World to life. Debbie is an icon whose vision, artistry, and leadership helped shape the original series and left an indelible mark on television, culture, and generations of viewers. Her legacy continues to inspire storytellers and performers who understand the power of representation, community, and purpose. I'm excited to see how this beloved story honors its roots while carrying Debbie's extraordinary legacy forward for a new generation.

The Jamir Smith Show takes you inside the X Games League Winter Draft at Cosm Los Angeles. From the red carpet, Jamir speaks with Olympic champions, X Games legends and rising stars about competition, legacy and the future of action sports.Featured talent includes Ayumu Hirano, Mark McMorris, Scotty James, Gus Kenworthy, Red Gerard, Alex Hall, Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, Mia Brookes, Zeb Powell and Kokomo Murase. Jamir also connects with XC Golden State GM and Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley, along with XC NY champions Daniel Sandoval, Bryce Wettstein, Tate Carew and Heili Servio, led by GM Steve Rodriguez.

It was an honor to celebrate the incomparable Nia Long, @iamnialong, as she received the 2,857th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.A beautiful and well-deserved moment honoring her talent, legacy and lasting impact on film, television and our culture.Thank you to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, @hwdwalkoffame, for the opportunity to cover today's interviews and witness this unforgettable celebration.Credit: Hollywood Chamber of Commerce@spotify @spotifypodcasts @power97.5laradio#NiaLong #HollywoodWalkOfFame #HollywoodChamberOfCommerce #BlackExcellence #EntertainmentJournalism #Reels #Explore

The Jamir Smith Show & Power 97.5 LA takes you inside the X Games League Winter Draft at Cosm Los Angeles. From the red carpet, Jamir speaks with Olympic champions, X Games legends and rising stars about competition, legacy and the future of action sports.Featured talent includes Ayumu Hirano, Mark McMorris, Scotty James, Gus Kenworthy, Red Gerard, Alex Hall, Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, Mia Brookes, Zeb Powell and Kokomo Murase. Jamir also connects with XC Golden State GM and Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley, along with XC NY champions Daniel Sandoval, Bryce Wettstein, Tate Carew and Heili Servio, led by GM Steve Rodriguez.

I sat down with the amazing Shelli Boone and Paris Crayton to discuss the 2nd Annual Un-Erasable Solo Festival, a powerful celebration of bold stories, fearless artists, and voices that refuse to be erased. We talk about the festival's purpose, the importance of owning our narratives, and how theater can preserve truth while moving culture forward.

“We are a community, and we know the difference between pressure & pain”- Nicoo AnnanAlways a joy interviewing my friend and the incredibly talented Nicco Annan @alldaynicco , who continues to bring so much heart, power, and truth to Uncle Clifford.The new season of P-Valley @pvalleystarz premieres December 4 with two episodes, followed by new episodes every Friday, exclusively on the STARZ App and streaming platforms. @pvalleystarz @starz @americanblackfilmfestival Full Interview @spotifypodcasts @spotify |The JamirSmith Show#pvalleystarz #fyp #explore #instagram #reels

Today, I sit down with actor Jamar Gilbert for a conversation about the journey behind the work. From his Mississippi roots and finding acting at six years old to building a career in Los Angeles, Jamar opens up about faith, vulnerability, perseverance and learning to be present in the good seasons.We also talk about his television work, creating his own stories and stepping into the powerful role of Levee in August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom at A Noise Within.This is a conversation about more than acting. It's about purpose, becoming and what happens when the life you prayed for starts meeting you in real time.

Today, I sit down with Luke Charles Stafford for a real conversation about the person behind the career. From growing up in Anderson, Indiana, to Broadway, film, music and becoming one of the familiar faces of the vertical drama world, Luke's journey has never fit into one box.We go deeper into his personal project Against the Wall, working alongside his father, the things men and families sometimes leave unsaid, and what it means to redefine strength. Luke also opens up about faith, ambition, creating his own opportunities through Dream United Studios, and learning that success doesn't always mean chasing the next thing.This conversation is about family, ownership, purpose and becoming the man you were always working toward.

Had the opportunity to sit down with Martin Lawrence, Tommy Davidson, Wendy Raquel Robinson and Chris Williams for The Varnell Hill Show.We went deeper into legacy, Black comedy, longevity, protecting our stories and the full-circle moment of Varnell Hill finally stepping into his own world.Some laughs, but also some real conversations about what it takes to build work that still matters decades later.Thank you Scene & Heard for having me.

Today I had the opportunity to attend opening media day and speak with Tracey Bates, CEO of the Lucas Museum; Ma Yansong, head architect; Mia Lehrer, landscape architect; and Ryan Linkof, Senior Curator and Head of Film Programs.What made today special was hearing directly from the people shaping the vision, design and future of this museum, then getting to walk through it and experience that vision for myself.Los Angeles is getting something truly special.Full interview coming to @spotify The Jamir Smith Show.

From the 2026 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards in Los Angeles, Jamir Smith connects with Omarion, Lucky Daye, Miles Caton, Storm Reid, Trevor Jackson, Tone Stith, Eric Bellinger, October London and more for conversations about music, legacy, love, authenticity and what's next. Plus, a celebration of Nas receiving the BMI Icon Award.

Tonight at the 2026 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards with Lucky Daye.

@omarion at the 2026 BMI @bmi R&B/Hip-Hop Awards

KJ Dillard joins The Jamir Smith Show for a conversation that goes beyond the spotlight. From his new single “Girls in NY” and joining Bravo's Summer House to fashion, skateboarding, mental health and becoming the first Black male cast member in the show's history, KJ opens up about identity, representation and staying grounded as his platform grows. We also get into the women who shaped him, finding himself in New York and the person he refuses to lose along the way.

A powerful red carpet conversation with writer and filmmaker Luke CharlesStafford at the world premiere of Against the Wall. We talk about fathers and sons, the hardest scene he had to create alongside his real-life father, what families leave unsaid, and the importance of becoming someone our parents can be proud of.

I sat down with award-winning international DJ and host Jay Shalé for a conversation that goes far beyond the DJ booth.We talk about her new chapter with the LA Sparks, going from Atlanta to Los Angeles, creating safe spaces through music, queer visibility, taking her career global, and the viral moment she shared with former Vice President Kamala Harris.But more than anything, we get into the person behind the success. Identity, purpose, peace, knowing your worth, and what she wants her legacy to represent.

Still taking this moment in. I had the opportunity to speak with two legends, Dr. Bernice King @berniceaking and Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz @ilyasahshabazz We talked about legacy, unity, and something that really stayed with me from Dr. Bernice King, “you can never erase what their parents built and instilled in all of us”.Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X changed history, but their impact didn't stop with them. Their words, courage, and fight for justice will still live through generations.I am grateful I got to have this conversation, and hear from two women continuing that legacy in their own powerful way. thank you @essencefest ..Full Conversation @spotify @spotifypodcasts The JamirSmith Show ..#fyp #explore #reels

I'm excited to sit down and answer your questions about red carpet interviews, preparing for celebrity conversations, building real industry relationships, and creating opportunities in media. From what happens before the carpet to what you don't see on camera, let's talk about it.Instagram @jamir_smith

A conversation with ABFF founder Jeff Friday about 30 years of Black storytelling, building an institution, the importance of succession and legacy, and what's next as the American Black Film Festival heads to Los Angeles for its 31st year.

Today's conversation was special.

Guest: Atima OmaraHost: Jamir SmithTheme: Democracy, organizing, leadership, and what ordinary people can learn from Black women's fight for a more inclusive America.“Welcome to The Jamir Smith Show. Every conversation begins the same way because before politics, careers, or headlines, we're all human.”“How's your heart? What has this season of life been teaching you?”Follow-upYou've spent decades in political organizing. How has this moment shaped you personally beyond your professional work?Segment One: Why This Book, Why Now? (7 minutes)1.This isn't just a history book or a political book. It feels like a blueprint. What convinced you that this was the moment to write The Instigators?2.You argue that Black women aren't simply participants in democracy—they've been architects of it. Why do you think that truth has remained largely invisible in mainstream conversations?

I got to interview two of the amazing stars of The Young and the Restless!Vivica A. Fox and Sean Dominic joined me to talk about what's happening in Genoa City, Nate's journey, and what could be coming next.And after this latest episode... Dr. Nate might be BACK! ••The Young and the Restless | Weekdays on CBS#YR #YoungAndTheRestless#VivicaAFox #SeanDominic #CBS#DaytimeTV #TheJamirSmithShow

From the dope game to the rap game.

I had the honor of interviewing the legendary Kieu Chinh, who stars as Ba Nội, and Sir Daniel K. Winn, whose extraordinary life inspired this story.A powerful conversation about transformation, survival, memory, healing, and how art can carry us through the hardest chapters of our lives.What does it mean to become who you were always meant to be?Instagram @jamir_smith

Honored to be invited by the Tribeca Festival @tribeca to cover the red carpet premiere of Born Melo.@carmeloanthony and I spoke about his career and what legacy really mean throughout this phenomenal documentary “Born Melo”.What makes this documentary so powerful is that it goes far beyond basketball. It's a story about legacy, fatherhood, purpose, and the moments that define us long after the final buzzer. Watching Carmelo Anthony reflect on his journey while witnessing his son Kiyan Anthony begin his own chapter creates a moving portrait of what it truly means to leave a legacy....@iheartradio @iheartpodcast @power97.5laradio ...#bornmelo #carmeloanthony #tribecafilmfestival2026 #fyp #explorepageThis new, official documentary takes an intimate look into the life and legacy of Carmelo Anthony as he is inducted into the Hall of Fame and sees his son, Kiyan, launch his collegiate basketball career.There's more to life than just basketball in Born Melo, the official documentary following former New York Knicks player and power forward Carmelo Anthony. In his own words, Anthony reflects on his upbringing in Baltimore, his meteoric rise to NBA superstardom and his legacy as a Hall of Famer. Featuring exclusive interviews and never-before-seen footage, this film replays all the major highlights from his electrifying high school debut to leading Syracuse into championship glory.

A conversation about turning Wounds to Wisdom. We go beyond the film to talk about the person behind the story, what healing looks like while you're still in the middle of it, and how life's hardest seasons can shape who we become.We start where I always do: How's your heart?@w2wsupperclub @whatnajahdidinheels@thejonathanmajors

Today we're joined by two incredible artists behind one of the year's most heartfelt coming-of-age films, Olmo.From the producers behind Moonlight and Minari, this film takes us to New Mexico in 1979 and reminds us that growing up isn't simply about getting older—it's about learning responsibility, understanding love, and discovering that family can be both our greatest burden and our greatest blessing.Joining me today are director and co-writer Fernando Eimbcke and the young star of the film, Aivan Uttapa.

I had the opportunity to interview Felicia Pride during ABFF, and now she's leading the next chapter of A Different World as creator and showrunner of the Netflix sequel series.During our conversation, Felicia talked about the importance of reflecting the lives of young people today and showing the full breadth of their humanity.That's why stories like this still matter. A new generation deserves to see themselves fully, honestly, and with possibility.A Different World streaming on September 24 on Netflix.

I've had the pleasure of interviewing the incredibly talented Dawnn Lewis @dawnn_lewis on many red carpets and at events over the years. One thing has always remained consistent: her belief in hard work, family, education, and staying grounded in who you are.Dawnn didn't just star as Jaleesa Vinson on A Different World. She also co-wrote the original theme song, helping create a sound and legacy that became part of our culture.Now, that legacy is entering a new chapter.With the A Different World @adifferentworldofficial sequel series premiering September 24 on Netflix @netflix , musical icon Brandy @brandy will perform the new opening credits theme, while Dawnn Lewis returns to reprise her role.There's something special about seeing one generation of Black excellence open the door for another while honoring what came before..Full Interview @spotifypodcasts | The JamirSmith Show..#adifferentworld #explore #fyp

Thank you, Black Writers Weekend @blackwritersweekend for trusting me to be part of your story and for the honor of moderating two conversations that challenged, inspired, and connected us all.To the team at Diverse Representation @diverserepresentation, thank you for an incredible partnership. It's always a privilege to create these spaces together.And to everyone who stopped in to listen, introduce yourselves, share your stories, or simply connect with me...thank you.Let's keep building community and showing up for one another. That's where the real work begins.

“When I watched SERAPHIM, I realized this wasn't just a musical—it felt like a conversation with the world. It asks difficult questions about love, race, identity, justice, faith, and hope. Today, I want our listeners to understand the heart behind the artist and the purpose behind this movement.”The Man Behind the MusicYou've described SERAPHIM as representing light, fire, passion, and purpose.What was happening in your own life that made you realize this story needed to be told?Music With a MissionBlack Queer StorytellingBetting on Yourself“Light Up The Darkness.”I love that because darkness doesn't disappear because we talk about it.

Welcome to The Jamir Smith Show on Power 97.5 LA, Power V 97.5 Vegas, Spotify LIVE and everywhere you listen to podcasts. I'm your host, Jamir Smith.Today's guest Shannon Wallace, is an artist who refuses to be defined by one title. He's an actor, director, producer, photographer, and storyteller whose work continues to push independent Black cinema forward.Last week I had the opportunity to see his amazing work with Season 2 of Diarra From Detroit,    He has also been apart of so great projects like Beauty in Black, Divorce in the Black, American Soul, and Blue Bloods. Now he's entering an exciting new chapter with his feature film A Story About You and his directorial debut, Channels.Becoming Shannon WallaceDiarra From Detroit: Growing With the CharacterWorking With Tyler PerryCreating Your Own OpportunitiesFaith, Identity & Legacy

Moderated by SCAD FASH executive director Alex Delotch Davis, the conversation features Danny Dunson, the DuSable Black History Museum's director of curatorial affairs and arts education, and editorial director and filmmaker Isoul Harris (HBO's Donyale Luna: Supermodel) who explore Church's groundbreaking career through the lens of Dunson's recent exhibition Black in Paris. Discover how Church and her contemporaries rewrote restricted beauty standards and established a blueprint for the modern fashion industry.

I had a great conversation with Nick Griffin, Executive Vice President of the Downtown LA Alliance as we discussed how The Path of Progress initiative has become a major part of the conversation for DTLA Alliance.We discussed topics: When people hear terms like revitalization and investment, they often wonder how that translates into everyday experiences. How will residents, workers, and visitors actually feel the difference as Path of Progress projects move forward?Downtown Los Angeles is preparing to welcome millions of visitors over the next few years with major international sporting events coming to the region. How is DTLA Alliance positioning downtown to make a strong first impression on the world?What opportunities do you see for local businesses, restaurants, and entrepreneurs as tourism ramps up ahead of these global events?Support : https://downtownla.com/

Kolo: “Finding Home Through Sound”Exploring the idea of vulnerability.. the art of vulnerability film sept last year Opening (2–3 minutes)1. I always begin with this question because it tells me more than any biography ever could. How's your heart? What has this season of life been teaching you?2. Your new single is called Lonely Dreams. That's a title that almost feels like a journal entry. Before people hear the record, what was happening in your life that made you write it?Lonely Dreams: The Cost of Chasing Purpose Download the new single “Lonely Dreams” on all streaming platforms.Instagram @kolo.24Jamirsmith.com

Sitting down with Lynae Vanee @lynaevanee at this year's Essence Festival @essencefest was one of those moments that always stays with me. She has a way of turning honesty into poetry and making people feel seen through every word.Now she's taking “Black Women Deserve Poems” on tour, and I already know each stop has been more than a performance, but a reminder of the power of storytelling, healing, and truth.Get your tickets

Episode Theme: Preserving Black History Through Fiction, Courage, and Storytelling“Welcome to The Jamir Smith Show. Today we're joined by award-winning author, journalist, and former attorney Ashton Lattimore. Her highly anticipated second novel, RUNNER, takes readers into the world of Prohibition-era Martha's Vineyard, where history, mystery, and resilience collide. Ashton, congratulations on the book. How are you feeling as you prepare to share this story with the world?”The Story Behind the Story Your books feel deeply researched but emotionally intimate.What first stopped you in your tracks during that visit to the Martha's Vineyard museum?What made you realize this wasn't just history,it was a story that deserved to be told?RUNNERWithout giving too much away…Introduce us to your protagonist. What makes her unforgettable?Lena She's navigating grief, family secrets, and survival. Which part of her journey resonated most with you personally?Rum-running during Prohibition is rarely explored through a Black lens. Why was it important to reclaim that perspective?Instagram @astonlattimore@jamir_smith

5th Annual #GLAADHonors Celebrates Black & Brown LGBTQ Creators, Storytellers, and Community in Los Angeles March 13, 2026

I had the chance to chat with musician, and actor Elijah Boothe how drops his new single on July 17 followed by an EP in August 2026. Fron acting to music, every chapter continues to be intentional. Working with artists like Durand Bernarr and Knwledge Elijah continues to trust his own artistry and create the his own journey. Download the new single on July 17 and stay turned for his amazing EP in August.Instagram @elijahboothe

2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T will take center stage during NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles, California. This highly anticipated matchup will feature two powerhouse programs— the Hampton University Pirates and the North Carolina A&T Aggies

One of the most meaningful conversations I had during this year's Essence Festival was with DeVon Franklin and his wife, Maria Castillo.Our discussion wasn't just about careers or accomplishments, it was about healing, transformation, love, and the legacy we leave behind. We talked about the importance of doing the inner work, living with intention, and understanding that our character is just as important as our success.One reminder that stayed with me: the greatest work we will ever do is becoming the best version of ourselves. Titles may open doors, but integrity, purpose, and how we treat people are what truly leave a lasting impact.

During this year's @essencefest & @blackexcellencebrunch hosted by @trellworld , I chatted with with Victoria Thomas @iam_queenvee tech founder, sports agent, and attorney, for a conversation that stayed with me long after the cameras stopped rolling.She reminded me that when we're invited into these rooms, it's something special and there's magic in the room! It's about building genuine relationships, showing up for one another, and creating communities that lasts...Thank you for your heart ❤️ ..Full conversation @spotify @spotifypodcasts ..@essencefest @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld ...

Jamaal: Loved Coded is an anthology sci-fi show about the intersection of humanoid robots and dating. Gay men navigate the complexities of dating with engineered, lifelike lovers.Stream all episodes on HERE TV