Black Music Month in June

One of the most well-known African American musicians from our area is Ray Charles. He was born in Albany on September 23, 1930, and had an incredible career that started when he was just a young boy. During his youth, Ray Charles became blind and enrolled in the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. It was here that he learned how to read and write music in Braille as well as compose musical scores and play the piano and clarinet. With a foundational love of music, he continued to find inspiration from musical influences all around him, including gospel singing at church, country tunes from icons like Hank Williams, piano jazz and more. After the death of his mother, he dropped out of school at just 15 years old to follow his passion for music. In 1946, he accompanied the Charlie Brantley & His Original Honey Droppers to play the piano, and the following year joined the Florida Playboys, who performed hillbilly hits. Over the years, he continued playing for a variety of bands, broadening his talents. Between the years of 1954-1959, he performed iconic R&B hits for Atlanta Records like "I've Got a Woman” and “Hallelujah I Love Her So.” In 1960, he struck gold with the #1 Pop Hit “Georgia On My Mind” and the following year, secured a Grammy for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording. His legacy as an incredible musician and pioneer for soul music continues on to this day. In Albany, you can honor his memory by checking out the Ray Charles Plaza, which features a life-size sculpture of the musician sitting at a Baby Grand piano. His popular melodies can be heard during timed intervals, making the experience truly memorable!

In the South, African American music often found inspiration through the church. Gospel music has always found a way to bring a community together and serve as a vehicle for storytelling. The legendary group known as The Freedom Singers is a prime example of utilizing church singing to serve a purpose. The group was formed in 1962 by Bernice Johnson Reagon, Cordell Reagon, Charles Nesbett, and Rutha Mae Harris at Albany State College. Members came together to raise funds and awareness for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. One of the defining characteristics of their sound was combining black Baptist a cappella church singing with popular music styles. Together, they shared the story of the Civil Rights Movement, inspiring others to join the initiative. In 1963, they traveled to 200 college campuses and high schools across 40 states to spread awareness. One of their most iconic performances took place in 1963 at the March on Washington, where they sang “We Shall Not Be Moved.” The
founding members disbanded after the end of the Civil Rights Movement but their tireless efforts and impact have never been forgotten.

There are a few ways that you can celebrate Black Music Month this June! First off, there’s a brand-new mural titled The America250 that visitors can check out. This special mural celebrates our nation's 250th anniversary by recognizing four members of the National Garden of American Heroes. These heroes include Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles. It’s a beautiful tribute to these music legends, featuring vibrant colors and depictions of each legend. Stop by and snap a selfie with this mural during your next trip to Albany! Another fun way to celebrate this month is by checking out Jazzy Thursdays at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany. Held in the lobby and restaurant of the hotel, patrons can enjoy live jazz, craft cocktails and delicious bites. It’s a great opportunity to unwind and connect with your loved ones while listening to jazz.

Albany’s history is heavily intertwined with musical legends from Ray Charles and The Freedom Singers. In honor of Black Music Month, take the time to dive deeper into the legacy of these talented musicians either by listening to their music or visiting our America250 Mural! It’s a great way to recognize the influence that African American artists have had in our nation and celebrate their heritage.