African-American Music Appreciation Month: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about African-American Music Appreciation Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. African-American Music Appreciation Month is observed on June 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of African-American Music Appreciation Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you might want to know about African-American Music Appreciation Month.

📅 What day is African-American Music Appreciation Month 2024?

In 2024, African-American Music Appreciation Month is on Thursday, June 1st. It is the 1st Thursday in June; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all intriguing details and facts about June 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

African-American Music Appreciation Month has been observed in the United States since 1979. It takes place in June and aims to honor African-American artists, composers, vocalists, and songwriters who have contributed to American culture. The month celebrates the diverse musical traditions that have given rise to various genres like rap, hip-hop, jazz, rhythm and blues, barbershop, and swing. It also acknowledges the creative inspiration and influence that African-American music has had on generations of musicians and music lovers. The music covers a wide range of important cultural issues, from stories of slavery and racism to the fight for human rights and exploring African-American heritage and beliefs. Throughout the years, black performers have achieved remarkable success, not only on music charts but also in entertainment award ceremonies. While President Jimmy Carter initially declared June as Black Music Month in 1979, the official presidential proclamation was signed in 2000. In 2009, President Barack Obama renamed it African-American Music Appreciation Month.

📜 African-American Music Appreciation Month History

President Carter did not officially declare June as “Black Music Month” by signing a special proclamation, despite designating it as such. In 1998, journalist and activist Dyana Williams attempted to organize a Black Music Month event at the White House, but the absence of a presidential declaration prevented it from happening. However, Williams persisted and, with the help of Congressman Chaka Fattah, fought for legislation. Two years later, June was officially recognized as Black Music Month.

In 2009, President Barack Obama changed the name to African-American Music Appreciation Month and emphasized the importance of this month in celebrating the diverse styles of black music. From sacred music, which emphasized gospel themes and Black Christian beliefs, to blues and R&B, which conveyed ideas about the motherland and racial harmony, African-American music has played a significant role in American history. Genres like rock & roll, hip-hop, and rap gained popularity worldwide, appealing to young people everywhere.

African-American music has not only been a form of entertainment but has also shaped American culture and history. Jazz and rap, among other genres, have influenced the cultural landscape of the past century. During times of national adversity, such as the Civil Rights Movement, the music united generations. The beats and sounds of these subgenres have influenced rock, soul, gospel, swing, and other musical styles. Well-known bands like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles were impacted by jazz and blues, and African-American artists have contributed to the development of funk, Motown, and hip-hop with their unique singing and dance techniques.

During African-American Music Appreciation Month, which occurs in June, music enthusiasts come together to honor the contributions of the African-American community in shaping contemporary American culture through diversity, inclusion, and community.

✅ African-American Music Appreciation Month Facts

🔖 Billie Jean’ made history on MTV
The music video for “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson was groundbreaking as it marked the first time a black artist was featured in an MTV music video.

🔖 Aretha Franklin was scared of flying

🔖 Tupac Shakur could also dance
Tupac Shakur took ballet lessons at the Baltimore School of Arts.

👍 Why Is African-American Music Appreciation Month Important

Many of the genres in the African-American music business have a long history. Tales of religious ecstasy, rebellious youth, racial oppression, love for the home, and general life topics can all be found in these genres. A lot of African-American music is also associated with significant American historical events like the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement. African-American Music Appreciation Month is a way to honor America’s rich past.

There is harmony in diversity. Being inclusive not only opens our hearts to one another, but it also broadens our perspectives on new experiences. The African-American population has also contributed to the development of the American cultural environment. We honor the diversity of African-American music by commemorating African-American Music Appreciation Month.

Music, like food, is widely adored and required. Music brings us all together. Life might be dull without it, but with it, everything takes on meaning and becomes more enjoyable, such as when we listen to our favorite music while doing our duties. However, we seldom consider the history of the song. African-American Music Appreciation Month is a wonderful chance to pay tribute to the origins of black music.

🙂 How To Observe African-American Music Appreciation Month

⚡ Read up on African-American music history or watch a documentary
To fully appreciate the different aspects of this song, take the time to delve into its background. By exploring its history, you’ll not only discover the numerous influences and individuals who shaped the genre, but you’ll also develop a deeper appreciation for the music that’s available to you today. Additionally, there are several movies that have been made about African-American music and the lives of its performers. Select a captivating title and enjoy a cozy movie night.

⚡ Stream your favorite African-American artists
One of the best ways to make the most of the month is by actively engaging with and appreciating African-American music. It is important to not only listen to, but also acknowledge and value the significance of this music. Discovering new genres and talented vocalists is an exciting endeavor, while still cherishing and revisiting your beloved classics. Utilizing streaming platforms can provide a wonderful opportunity to explore and uncover hidden gems within this rich musical tradition.

⚡ Donate to a music school
Many music schools offer instruction in African-American music. If you have an interest in learning more about these genres, you can join a program. If you’re unable to commit time to it, you can support these initiatives by making a donation. Additionally, there are numerous scholarships specifically designed to assist individuals in pursuing their musical education in African-American music.

📅 When is African-American Music Appreciation Month?

Explore all 🔗 June holidays, including 🔗 Cultural and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about African-American Music Appreciation Month. So be sure to check back soon.