1918 – Charles White is Born
Charles White was an influential painter and educator known for powerful depictions of African American life. Born in Chicago in 1918, his decades-long career included murals, drawings, and prints that addressed social justice and civil rights. Beyond his talents as an artist, White was an educator and mentor to other Black artists, including Kerry James Marshall and David Hammons.
1939 – Marvin Gaye is Born
On April 2, 1939 legendary soul singer Marvin Gaye was born. His musical beginnings took place in his father’s church choir until he moved to Detroit and began a career under the Motown Records label in 1961. Gaye became one of the label’s top acts, noted for his range of pop, R&B, and protest themes.His achievements include 17 studio albums, three No. 1 singles, and two Grammy awards. Gaye died a day before his 45th birthday after an altercation with his father in 1984.
