It's Black History Month -- 28 days of education and celebration of our ancestors. And here at BVHairTalk we're certainly going to join in the tributes, from our own unique area of specialty, of course!

The history of black hair and hairstyling of course began in Africa. Before the slave trade began, many African cultures wore notably elaborate hairstyles. This is where twists, braids, and intricately parted styles began. From the minute black people were brought to America, many of these traditions began to die as these proud people -- now slaves -- were deliberately separated from each other. Because their indigenous styling techniques and products were now out of reach to them, they were forced to use their ingenuity. That involved taming afro-textured hair with animal fat, kerosene, lard, butter - whatever.

In the 1900's, Madame C.J Walker revolutionized the hair straightening market with her "Wonderful Hair Grower."

We have come a long way, baby.

Quite simply, she was the first. And the fact that her legacy shines bright 35 years after her passing, proves that she was the best. Josephine Baker is an icon for the ages.

When you consider the rich history of hair and beauty products targeted to people of color, there's one name that has remained consistently, unwaveringly popular for a century now. SoftSheen Carson. The company began in a basement on the southside of my new hometown of Chicago. And today, SoftSheen Carson is owned by L'Oreal, and includes 18 brands, all dedicated to the beautification of black hair and skin.

We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Angela Guy, general manager of SoftSheen Carson and she offered some amazing insight on the evolution of this venerable company, that has always been dedicated to products made for us, by us.

What would you do for straight hair?

Some of us use chemicals or heat. Some of us buy hair and have it sewn or glued onto our heads. And soon, there may be yet another option for those who desire the straight look.

From The Daily Mail:

"Researchers in Australia identified the trichohyalin gene as being mainly responsible for creating curls. Although it was known to play a role in the development of the hair follicle, Queensland Institute of Medical Research scientists have discovered its role in curliness.

Professor Nick Martin, author of the research, said a variation in the gene determined the straightness or curliness of hair. Professor Martin said it may be possible to come up with treatments to make hair straighter rather than relying on heated hair straighteners.

He said: 'Potentially we can now develop new treatments to make hair curlier or straighter, rather than treating the hair directly."

That is straight outta the Jetsons, am I right?

What a difference a year makes! In 2008, Johnny Wright was already making a name for himself as a celebrity hairstylist. Then a very special client came into his life, and as her star rose so did his. Soon, every possible snip and tuck became the topic of beaucoup speculation, and Johhny Wright found his name in the headlines. That client of course, is First Lady Michelle Obama. Mr. Wright has been the man behind the mane since the days of the Obama campaign. Now, sometimes he finds himself working with his most famous client at Washington DC's most famous address -- just this past week, he made sure Michelle's coif was styled to perfection for her husband's State of the Union address. Johnny is also Artistic Style Director to venerable African American haircare brand Softsheen Carson.

When we were offered the opportunity to speak with the witty Mr. Wright, we jumped at the chance! Without further ado, heeeeeeeeeere's Johnny!

BV Hair Talk -- I believe the main thing that most people know about you is that you are Michelle Obama's go-to hairstylist. Tell me how that came about.

Whether you love her exaggerated delivery and in-your-face style, or think she's overrated and super annoying -- there's no denying that Nicki Minaj is hot in the streets right now. Although I tend to ascribe to the philosophy that less can be more when it comes to being sexy, I'm enjoying Nicki's brash flow. And I'm hoping heartily that this leads to a resurgence of female MCs in the game.

Check her out, escorting Diddy's son to his Super Sweet 16 birthday party.

Nicki's style is bold and overtly feminine -- the self-dubbed "Harajuku Barbie" often wears her hair long with blunt bangs. Her hair color is usually dark, and lately she's been rocking bright pink streaks at the back. It takes a brave woman to pull this look off, and here's how you can do it!