June is a time to pay homage to our Independence Day and the fantastic music we have created over the years, just like we honor Black History Month in February.
Aside from Juneteenth, June is still a powerful month for black culture. June is known as Black Music Month, where people of color take a moment to acknowledge the endless timeline of great music created by our people. Genres such as jazz, hip-hop, gospel, blues, rhythm and blues (R&B), neo-soul, rap, and many other genres originated from black creatives. Musicians, singers, dancers, DJs, rappers, and writers now have a month to be officially commemorated.
Music has always been a platform for Black people to tell their stories, whether it was through vocalization or instrumentation. Art and entertainment have always been a vital outlet for black people to flourish, and there is no better time to celebrate this than TODAY! Take time to listen to great music, learn about amazing creatives of color, and dwell in the culture that never fails to succeed and exceed the odds that have been made to hold us back. With so much to celebrate, there is no better way to kick off the summer!
During Black Music Month, Tiny Desk is honoring women in music. They have published nine Tiny Desk concerts featuring Black female artists, including established pioneers in Black music and up-and-coming musicians creating unique sounds. Here are a few:
I am a creative writer from Chicago, IL, specializing in poetry, music, stories, and journalism. I love being a voice to advocate for the culture, my people, and those who cannot advocate for self.
All good energy over here. <3
