Urban Magazine’s September issue spotlights multi-hyphenate creative erika bryant (intentionally lowercased), who returns for her second cover as she approaches her 50th birthday and reflects on more than two decades working across music, television, producing, writing, and entrepreneurship. Bryant discusses the importance of betting on yourself, following purpose over money, building creative teams with compassion, and embracing fear as a catalyst for growth. She also opens up about her forthcoming book, Doing It Scared in Love & Relationships, exploring vulnerability, intimacy, ambition, and giving yourself permission to make room for love while still pursuing a fully realized life.
The issue also features recording artist Davion Farris discussing his newly released 13-track album Alchemy, his growth as a musician, and the life experiences that shaped this new chapter. Farris speaks about becoming more disciplined personally and professionally, incorporating more live instrumentation into his music, and finding inspiration after the devastating losses of his mother and older brother while also welcoming new life into his family.
Singer Genia shares the personal journey behind her debut album, Intense Lover, an intimate project centered on love, passion, faith, vulnerability, and emotional growth. She explains how the unexpected response to “Miss Your Touch” encouraged her to stop forcing an image and lean more deeply into the sensitive, honest side of herself. Genia also reflects on the realities of pursuing music, including losing her apartment while simultaneously gaining momentum in her career, and why she believes authenticity and openness can inspire others chasing their dreams.
Ashia Montgomery of 90 Day Fiancé, who discusses her relationship with Maxwell, their 10-year age difference, their shared Pentecostal faith, doubts from family and viewers, cultural differences, and the challenges surrounding the visa process. Montgomery speaks candidly about trusting God’s timing, navigating outside criticism, communicating across cultures, and what the experience has taught her about patience, preparation, and relationships.
The September issue also offers a sneak peek at SWAT Exiles, which follows Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson as he leads a squad of young, untested officers through dangerous missions while confronting the revelation that the team may have been assembled to fail. As betrayals and tensions emerge, Hondo’s leadership and sense of identity are put to the test.
Readers will also find a look at the Air Jordan 41, Jordan Brand’s latest signature basketball shoe, developed with input from Michael Jordan and athletes across professional, college, and youth basketball. The issue highlights its focus on speed, responsiveness, stability, and a lightweight nano-print mesh upper designed to improve support and breathability.
In addition, relationship coach and author Míchelle Annaléise Coles contributes “The Table Was Never Empty,” an essay challenging the familiar question of what women “bring to the table.” Coles argues for recognizing women’s emotional intelligence, loyalty, creativity, resilience, and inherent wholeness while encouraging healthier relationships built on mutual respect, safety, and contribution.
The issue also includes poetry from Paul Laurence Dunbar, Langston Hughes, Claude McKay, and Be’n Original, along with a curated buyers guide featuring lifestyle and technology products such as cameras, headphones, wireless microphones, and professional accessories. The full September lineup spans poetry, technology, entertainment, relationships, music, and its cover conversation with erika bryant.
From music and television to relationships, personal growth, and creative entrepreneurship, Urban Magazine’s September issue celebrates people who are willing to evolve, embrace vulnerability, move through fear, and turn life’s challenges into purpose, art, and opportunity.
