Erica Kennedy

Erica Kennedy (March 24, 1970 – June 13, 2012) was an American author, blogger, news correspondent, fashion journalist, and singer. Her 2004 novel Bling, became a New York Times bestseller. In 2010, she was named to the list of 100 most influential African Americans, as published by Ebony magazine and known as the "Ebony Power 100".

Professional background Following her college graduation, Kennedy started her career working as a publicist with various top fashion designers including Tommy Hilfiger and Sean Combs. She worked as a special news correspondent for the New York Daily News before writing on fashion and entertainment for Vibe, InStyle, Paper, and Elle UK. Kennedy received her job at InStyle because Prince (then known as The Artist) requested that he be interviewed by an African-American woman. She had sent clips in to the magazine before, but they only called her at Prince's request.

Kennedy published two novels. Her first novel, Bling, was published by Miramax Books in 2004 and reached 35th on the New York Times Best Seller list; the Weinstein Company optioned the book for film adaptation. Her second novel, Feminista, was published by St. Martin's Press in 2009.

Death On June 18, 2012, the Miami Beach, Florida police department confirmed to news media that Kennedy's body had been found in her home on June 13. She was 42 years old. Kennedy's cause of death has never been publicly announced.

Published works Kennedy, Erica. Bling, Miramax Books, 2004. Kennedy, Erica. Feminista, St. Martin's Press, 2009.