The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) is partnering with Central City Productions (CCP) to honor six acclaimed honorees and a foundational music label, all of whom shaped the landscape of American music. Giving tribute to music’s rich cultural history in America, CCP and NMAAM join forces to celebrate the lasting legacies of all forms of music, the creative process, the art of music, and the prominence of music history. The two-hour television special is entitled Celebrate the Soul: Black Music Honors.
The live television taping on Thursday, August 18 will honor legendary African American artists and organizations that have influenced and made significant contributions to American culture. This star-studded celebration will honor music legends Pastor Shirley Caesar, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Big Daddy Kane, Dionne Warwick, Clarence Avant, and Stax Records.
Renowned actor and GRAMMY award-winning musician Malcolm-Jamal Warner will serve as the show’s host for the event.
“As an actor, there were things I wanted to express that I could not, maybe even as a director,” said Warner. “Music has allowed me to develop an avenue of expression that my soul needs, which is why being part of something like Black Music Honors is a phenomenal opportunity. I am excited to participate and serve in this esteemed role.”
The night will be filled with live tribute performances from GRAMMY winning recording artists Tina Campbell, Ann Nesby and Andra Day, as well as Chubb Rock and Stokley Williams. Legendary GRAMMY winning groups The Bar-Kays, The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards, and The SOS Band will also perform. Confirmed presenters include Monie Love among others.
Central City Productions, Inc. (CCP) is considered by many to be Chicago’s premier TV Production Company. With 42 years of successful and innovative television production and marketing experience, CCP, a leader in minority- targeted television, is a full service television production company that produces, syndicates, and manages advertising sales for all of its programs.
As the only museum dedicated to all dimensions of African American music, NMAAM will showcase over 50 music genres created or impacted by African Americans, honor the legacy and legends of this diverse music and detail the impact music has on musicians and consumers around the world. For more information, visit NMAAM.org. and/or blackmusichonors.com.
Come dressed to impress, with doors opening at 6pm and show taping beginning promptly at 7pm in TPAC’s Jackson Hall. Be a VIP! For $177.50, you can get the VIP Seating & Private Reception Package: One premier seat located in the first two available rows; and Exclusive access to the private reception, following the awards show, with special invited guests. Regular reserved seat tickets are also available now, ranging in price from $27.50 to $102.50 and can be purchased at www.tpac.org.
