Celebrating the Impact and Evolution of Black Music All Month Long

Posted on 06/02/21

Black guitarist

In 1979, President Jimmy Carter decreed that June would be the month of Black music, because it has inspired and influenced so many genres throughout the nation – and the world. This year, AARP is proud to celebrate Black Music Month with you by hosting a variety of virtual events and online concerts in communities around the country.

There’s a nationwide virtual dance party - a disco-themed “Saturday Morning Fever” Daybreaker event featuring Sister Sledge, Indigo Girls and MC Elliot LaRue - where you can boogie and learn about the link music has to healthy brains and bodies.

Help honor groundbreaking artists like Smokey Robinson, Lionel Richie, Quincy Jones with a Celebration of Legends that is planned in collaboration with the National Museum of African American Music.

Get tips on aging gracefully and staying positive from chart-topping singer, songwriter, producer and businesswoman Jody Watley. Or join AARRP Ohio and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for a three-part celebration and discussion of disparities and how we can close gaps and bend the moral arc of our communities.

Visit a virtual “Juneteenth Unityfest,” conceived by Grammy-nominee and artist Robert Randolph and sponsored by AARP Pennsylvania.

Or join in one of several online concerts that AARP staff and volunteers are hosting around the country.

The New York team has two shows: featuring Grammy-winning gospel Musician Jonathan McReynolds and Tony-winning Broadway star and recording artist Jennifer Holliday. AARP Arizona is hosting a jazz couch concert with Doc Jones and AARP Atlanta will have Regina Belle, Glenn Jones and Dottie Peoples to close out the month!

From pain and perseverance to success and joy, Black artists continue to create emotional content with palpable lyrics and rhythms that unite and inspire millions. At AARP, we hope to groove with you in June and to celebrate Black Joy all year long!

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