June is Black Music Month
June is Black Music Month and the Gospel Music Channel has launched a month-long celebration that aims to pay tribute to the rich musical contributions of African-American musicians, singers and composers.
Launched less than three years ago, The Gospel Music Channel is the first and only 24-hour gospel and Christian music television network. Currently offered in 170 markets over 300 U.S. cities, the network recently added St. Louis, New York City and Los Angeles to its roster.
Programming during Black Music Month will include concerts and specials featuring traditional gospel greats like Mahalia Jackson, Shirley Ceasar and the Blind Boys of Alabama. More contemporary Christian artists Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin will also be featured.
Each Sunday in June will be dedicated to the airing of gospel music documentaries. On June 17 at 8 p.m. the network will air Ben Harper and the Blind Boys of Alabama Live at the Apollo. In Gotta Serve Somebody: The Gospel Songs of Bob Dylan, modern gospel artists will perform their own versions of gospel songs from Dylan’s critically acclaimed Slow Train Comin’ and Saved albums. The special, which will air June 24, will also include live footage of a 1980 Dylan performance of “When He Returns.”
Other highlights include Hometown Gospel: Atlanta. Hosted by award-winning gospel artists Byron Cage, the special traces the rich history, flavor and contemporary spirit of gospel music in Atlanta and Faith and Fame where current artists share their personals stories of life, music and faith.
