With the third and final installment of her three album trilogy due for release soon, singer Dawn Richard is doing some amazing things. She’s signed with You Tube to bring viewers the first demonstration of a 360 degree live video streaming performance. Tonight, at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. CST, fans can tune in to the showcase on Verge’s You Tube channel via You Tube’s iOS and Andriod apps on any smartphone or tablet, as well as Google’s Cardboard headset and the web. Only the first 100 fans in the Los Angeles area will be admitted, others can attend the event free via You Tube Space LA. That will be an epic event. Fans who have been wondering if a biopic of legendary singer Aretha Franklin will ever see the light of day should wonder no more. During her 74th birthday celebration, which was held at the Ritz Carlton, Franklin told the Associated Press that a deal to produce a biopic on her life has been inked. Ever since 2011, there have been rumors that  Halle Berry would play the singer, then Jennifer Hudson later. While there’s been no official word on who will play the lead role, Franklin did reveal that an actress has been chosen and she’s happy for her. There’s no word on when filming will begin or when the film will  hit theaters. The internet was set a blaze after rumors of a Missy Elliott and Bruno Mars collaboration surfaced. Elliott took to Twitter to share photos of her and Mars relaxing together in the studio. Last fall, Elliott released the Pharrell Williams produced track “WTF (Where They From)” and also revealed that her comeback album could be released this year. She also released the single “Pep Rally” in February, ahead of Super Bowl 50 and is also featured on A$AP Ferg’s forthcoming album “Always Strive And Prosper” during the motivational track “Strive”. Both Elliott and Mars are Super Bowl alumni. Mars performed with Beyoncé and Coldplay at this years game as well as Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014 as a headliner. No formal announcement regarding a collaboration has been made. Puff Daddy & The Family, presented by hip hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, along with Common, have been added to the Essence Music Festival lineup of performers. The event’s lineup includes Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey and Maxwell, among others. The Essence Music Festival, presented by Coca Cola, will be held from June 30-July 3. Information regarding tickets and updates is available at essencefestival.com.