Black History Month Archives - Page 3 of 4 - The Washington Informer

Historically, African Americans musicians and groups have used their music and platforms to promote Black strength and power, such as Public Enemy’s 1989 “Fight the Power.” (Courtesy photo)

Black Experience

From Spirituals to Today: Black Artists Historically Use Music to Promote Freedom

by Micha Green February 7, 2024February 8, 2024

Musician and singer Billy Stewart had a profound impact on rhythm and blues in the 1950s and 1960s.

Black History Month

D.C. Native Billy Stewart Influenced ‘Soul’ Music in the ’50s and ’60s

by James Wright Jr. February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

D.C. native Shirley Horn was a beloved jazz pianist and singer. She was a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Master and lived in the Brookland community in Northeast D.C. until her death in 2005. (Courtesy of Arts.gov)

Black History Month

Shirley Horn: A Jazz Pianist and Vocalist Respected by Her Peers

by Brenda C. Siler February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

D.C. native Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington, was an internationally renowned composer, pianist, songwriter, actor, conductor, and jazz orchestra leader. (Courtesy Photo/ Smithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery, Irving Penn, 1971 and printed 1984)

Black History Month

D.C. Homeboy Edward Kennedy ‘Duke’ Ellington

by Austin R. Cooper Jr. February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

Historically, Black music has been key to shaping American culture. (Courtesy Photo, Smithsonian American Art Museum and its Renwick Gallery, “Harlem Musicians,” Elizabeth Olds, 1937)

Black History Month

African American Music: ‘Soundtrack to American Life,’ Key to American Culture Overall

by Micha Green February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

**FILE** With songs such as “Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise,” composer, singer and music legend Richard Smallwood shifted the sound of contemporary gospel. (Hamil R. Harris/The Washington Informer)

Black History Month

Richard Smallwood: A Groundbreaking Gospel Legend Who Continues to Inspire Today

by Hamil R. Harris February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

Marvin Gaye

Black History Month

Marvin Gaye: Musical Legend with Local Roots Who Continues to Inspire Today

by Sam P.K. Collins February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

D.C. native and mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves is a superstar and household name among opera fans around the globe, who fills opera houses to this day. (Courtesy of Chad J. McNeeley, U.S. Navy)

Black History Month

Denyce Graves’ Story Highlights Epitome of Homegrown Talent, Never Forgetting Roots

by Kayla Benjamin February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

The Marvelettes from Inkster, Michigan recorded for Motown Records. Their first big hit was “Please, Mr. Postman.” They are one of the girl groups featured in “But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” which explores the success and challenges of female vocal groups from the 1950s to the 1970s. Co-authors are Laura Flam and Emily Sieu Leibowitz. (Courtesy Photo/Pictorial Press Ltd_ Alamy Stock Photo)

Black History Month

High Life With Challenges for Girl Groups from the 1950s-1970s

by Brenda C. Siler February 7, 2024February 7, 2024

Music and education formed Roberta Flack into the celebrated singer, pianist, and educator she is today. (Courtesy of Warner Music Group)

Black History Month

Music Took Roberta Flack from D.C. Classrooms to Mr. Henry’s to Worldwide Stages

by Brenda C. Siler February 7, 2024February 7, 2024