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NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In addition to Quincy Jones, Lionel Richie, Smokey Robinson and the Fisk Jubilee Singers, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) will present the legendary Chaka Khan with its Rhapsody & Rhythm Award during the museum’s seventh annual Celebration of Legends Benefit Concert on Thursday, June 17.
As part of the museum’s fundraising efforts, the benefit concert will kick off a weekend-long Black Music Month celebration hosted by NMAAM and Amazon. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter declared June to be Black Music Month. NMAAM board member Dyana Williams was among the group of individuals who played an integral role in making this month a reality, and now it is celebrated throughout the country.
Black Music Month
“NMAAM showcases Black music excellence every day, but this year’s Black Music Month will be a special one as we celebrate the museum’s opening with phenomenal music icons and Black music fans across the world,” NMAAM President and CEO Henry Beecher Hicks III said. “We can’t wait to open our doors and share in the joy of Juneteenth weekend with our supporters, fans and a few musical legends, as well.”
This year’s benefit concert, sponsored by Amazon, will include a mix of in-person and virtual experiences to celebrate the recipients, with limited in-person seating.
“One of Amazon’s core values is to think big. We know that we can only do that when we all work together to recognize, elevate and celebrate all voices,” said Courtney Ross, Amazon Nashville’s senior manager of External Affairs. “We are excited to be NMAAM’s partner and the presenting sponsor for this year’s Black Music Month celebration. The work the museum is doing is essential to helping our wider community expand the way it thinks, and it’s an honor to be a part of it all.”
Khan’s legendary legacy
Chaka Khan has had a legendary career in the music industry. The 10-time Grammy Award winner has released 22 albums and racked up 10 number one Billboard magazine charted songs, seven RIAA-certified gold singles, and 10 RIAA-certified gold and platinum albums. Khan’s recorded music has produced over 2,000 catalog song placements.
Despite her busy and decorated career, Khan has always made time to support and uplift her community. Her deep commitment to others led her to establish the Chaka Khan Foundation in 1999 which serves at-risk women and children.
For more information, visit Black Music Month.
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