June marks the sensational Black Music Month nationwide and Nashville wasn’t left out of the loop at all. We welcomed the month of June, 2017 in with a history making Black Music Month kickoff luncheon. The memorable event was themed: “My Music Matters: A Celebration of Legends Lunch.
Nashville, TN is known worldwide for honorably bearing the title of: “Music City USA” As the mid-state, capitol city host legendary, award winning artist in the genre’s of Country, Gospel, Jazz and Rhythm and Blues; tourism and relocation is growing in leaps and bounds, weekly.
The luncheon was designed to celebrate the contributions of iconic artists and benefits the Museum’s educational programs, recognized several top names in various industry categories and music genres. Such as; legendary singer Patti LaBelle, gospel icon Kirk Franklin, King of New Jack Swing Teddy Riley, and Stax music producer David Porter.
Actor/comedian David Mann served as host, and music executives Phil Thornton of RCA and Catherine Brewton of BMI served as co-chairs.
This year’s honorees also enjoyed fitting tribute performances from artists Tamela Mann, Kelly Price, Dave Hollister, Mannie Fresh, Le’Andria Johnson, Avery Wilson, and Jeremy O’Bryan. Everyone in attendance, performers, museum personnel, contributors and media alike were dressed to the nines for the landmark event.
The lunch was held to benefit the Museum’s educational programs, such as From Nothing to Something, a series of one-hour workshops that educates students in grades 3-8 about the innovations used to create music by memory, and Sips & Stanzas, a social networking event that provides adults with an opportunity to experience sounds from emerging artists and participate in engaging discussions about American’s music culture.
The National Museum of African American Music is set to open its doors in 2019. It is to be the only museum dedicated to preserving the legacy and celebrating the accomplishments of the many music genres created, influenced, or inspired by African Americans. Being built in Nashville, the Museum integrates history and interactive technology to share the untold story of the American Soundtrack.
“We could not do any of the work we are doing without your support. Consider donating today to keep the legacy of African American music going”, stated Lolita Toney. NMAAM Director of Development and Chief of Staff
For NMAAM and other music industry updates, photographs and valuable future coverage, keep a close eye on “Spotlight Tennessee.” We will continue to bring the best in relevant news, photography and video coverage as it unfolds in the Mid-State.