By Ericka Alsto Buck, Special to the AFRO
June marks the celebration of Black Music Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of Black musicians and the profound impact of Black music on culture and society. Established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter, Black Music Month highlights the rich legacy and ongoing influence of Black music genres, including jazz, blues, soul, hip-hop and more.
Baltimore’s celebration of Black Music Month began with a bang with two spectacular events: “Wine on the Water: Caribbean and Neo Soul Edition” and the return of Jazzy Summer Nights.
“Wine on the Water,” organized by local promoter Stevie Love, was held at the waterfront on Waterview Avenue in south Baltimore on June 2. The event brought together music lovers from across the region to enjoy an evening of soulful performances by the water. Regional musician April Sampe was one of the headliners of the day with her powerful renditions of neo-soul classics, captivating a sea of attendees who had gathered to soak in the soulful sounds. Her performance set the tone for an afternoon of musical excellence.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the performance by Davon McCoy, better known as “Davon the Drummer.” Born in Baltimore and hailing from a long line of musicians, McCoy began playing drums at a very young age. His impressive career includes collaborations with artists like Lalah Hathaway; Monifah; Basement Boys; Ultra Naté; Petey Pablo and many others.
“I created music and started playing drums with DJs in 1994. Playing all over the world, you can catch me at large festivals, upscale parties and events like Jazzy Summer Night, spreading love through music. It is my gift and passion,” McCoy shared. His performance at “Wine on the Water” was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his ability to merge genres and satisfy the musical cravings of every attendee.
The celebration of Black Music Month continued with the launch of Jazzy Summer Nights on June 6 at the Baltimore Peninsula. Celebrating its 24th year, this summer series has become the music destination for Baltimore, D.C. and regional residents. LaRian Finney, founder and managing Partner of The Finn Group, expressed his excitement.
“We are celebrating year 24 of the series, every first Thursday this summer – it’s the music destination for Baltimore and D.C.,” said Finney. “Jazzy is a great, safe environment to enjoy an evening of music, food, and culture at the Peninsula!”
Headlining the inaugural night was trombone superstar Jeffrey Bradshaw, who wowed the audience with performances of his popular songs like “Prototype” and “All Time Love.”
Bradshaw emphasized the importance of independent artists performing at venues like Jazzy Summer Nights.
“Being an independent Black soul and jazz artist for 21 years, I’ve definitely seen the peaks and valleys that come with this great gift,” said Bradshaw.
The musician explained the plight of Black artists in America and how he’s seen national tours for some of the greatest artists “stifled because of obvious racism.”
“Artists were sometimes coming to perform in the very cities where they received hatred,” he said. “But the tenacity and work that was done by our civil rights heroes, along with the power of love through music, has afforded us opportunities to be able to perform in every major city in America and abroad.”
“That’s why concert series and festivals like Jazzy Summer Nights are not just concerts, but celebrations of our culture and music that has given the world blues, jazz, rock and roll, funk, soul, hip hop, disco, house, gospel and many others,” said Bradshaw. “Black Music Month is an honor to celebrate, but it’s a microcosm compared to how Black music has shaped the world.”
Joining Bradshaw on stage was his friend, the soulful artist Eric Roberson, who enchanted the crowd with his hits “Picture Perfect” and “Lessons.”
Roberson shared his thoughts on the significance of events like Jazzy Summer Nights.
“You have supporters and new people who don’t know you as well. So people are going to learn your art and Black music at the end of the day,” said Roberson. “For me to be able to sing a song in front of thousands of people– where a good portion will know it and a good portion won’t know it– this is what it’s all about.”
The summer lineup for Jazzy Summer Nights will feature performances by:
Thursday, July 4 | Bilal
Thursday, August 1 | The Bela Dona Band
Thursday, September 5 | Goapele
Thursday, October 3 | The LFTOVRZ ft. Gary Groove
In addition to these events, other notable Black Music Month performances in the region include:
Friday, June 14, 2024 – Eric Benét live at Birchmere, Alexandria, Va.
Friday, June 14, 2024 – Maze featuring Frankie Beverly live at Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Thursday, June 20, 2024 – The Soul Rebels with special guests Ghostface Killah and GZA, The Howard Theatre
Sunday, June 23, 2024 – Jhené Aiko live at Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 – T-Pain live at Pier Six Pavilion, Baltimore.
Friday, June 28, 2024 – The O’Jays live at The Theater at MGM National Harbor, National Harbor, Md.
Sunday, June 30, 2024 – Chris Brown live at CFG Bank Arena, Baltimore.
With an incredible lineup and a strong sense of community, the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area’s celebration of Black Music Month is set to be an unforgettable experience, honoring the past, present and future of Black music and its profound impact on the world.
