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This Date in History:
December 23
Music 		  Young, Gifted and Black, Irvin Mayfield Jr.
*Irvin Mayfield, Jr.
June 13 1600
Music 		  The Banjo: an African instrument. .
The banjo is celebrated on this date's Registry.
December 25 1745
Music 		  Saint George Boulogne, Renaissance man!
Joseph Boulogne "Chevalier de Saint-Georges" was born on Christmas Day, 1745.
July 12 1778
Music 		  George P. Bridgetower, a European-African musical prodigy
The birth of George Polgreen Bridgetower in 1778 is celebrated on this date.
June 16 1792
Music 		  Frank Johnson, a first for Black music!
Frank Johnson was born on this date in 1792.
July 13 1817
Music 		  Excellent voice, Elizabeth T. Greenfield!
On this date, Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield was born in 1817.
November 28 1817
Music 		  Congo Square, the soul of New Orleans.
Congo Square is celebrated on this date's Registry from 1817.
May 10 1819
Music 		  Justin Holland pioneered 19th century classic guitar. . .
The birth of Justin Holland in 1819 is celebrated on this date.
April 21 1830
Music 		  The Yellow Rose of Texas, a history!
This date in 1830 marks the commemoration of the song The Yellow Rose of Texas.
August 20 1835
Music 		  Jazz is music, an African American art form.
On this date, we focus on Jazz Music in America and the black culture's role in creating and influence its existence.
July 11 1836
Music 		  Afro-Brazilian composer, Antonio C. Gomes. .
Antonio Carlos Gomes was born on this date in 1836.
October 29 1846
Music 		  George W. Johnson, a pioneer in American recorded music
The birth of George Washington Johnson in 1846 is celebrated on this date.
May 25 1849
Music 		  "Blind Tom" Wiggins, amazing musician and composer
Blind Tom Wiggins, an African-American composer and pianist, was born on this date in 1849.
October 22 1854
Music 		  Composer James Bland, prolific Virginia song writer.
This date marks the birth of James A.
May 17 1864
Music 		  "Blind" Boone, a musical prodigy!
John William “Blind” Boone was born on this date in 1864.
December 2 1866
Music 		  Henry Burleigh, a dedicated gospel performer!
*Henry T.
November 24 1868
Music 		  Scott Joplin developed ragtime music and black opera
Scott Joplin was born on this date in 1868.
June 17 1871
Music 		  James Weldon Johnson, the composer of the "Black National Anthem."Anthems"
James Weldon Johnson was born on this date in 1871.
June 18 1873
Music 		  Tom Turpin was an early Ragtime icon!
Tom Turpin’s birth in 1873 is celebrated on this date.
August 11 1873
Music 		  Composer extraordinaire, John R. Johnson.
*On this date in 1873, John R.
November 16 1873
Music 		  From the Heart of Dixie, composer W.C. Handy emphasized American music.
W.
August 15 1875
Music 		  Samuel C. Taylor was a classical composer.
*On this date we mark the birth of Samuel Coleridge Taylor in 1875.
January 28 1879
Music 		  An early jazz trumpet, Bunk Johnson
*On this date we remember the birth of Bunk Johnson in 1879.
June 21 1879
Music 		  An excellent lyricist, Henry Creamer!
*Henry Creamer was born on this date in 1879.
October 12 1879
Music 		  Chris Smith, popular and prolific songwrite and actor
Chris Smith, an African-American songwriter, was born on this date in 1879.
August 10 1880
Music 		  Violinist par excellent, Clarence Cameron White!
*The birth of Clarence Cameron White in 1880 is marked on this date.
February 22 1881
Music 		  A unique composer/bandleader, James R. Europe.
*James R.
October 5 1881
Music 		  Tim Brymn, a 20th century jazz great, orchestra leader, and military band leader.
Tim Brymn was born on this date in 1881.
October 11 1882
Music 		  Classic composer, Robert N. Dett.
On this date in 1882, Robert Dett was born.
February 7 1883
Music 		  Ragtime/showtune pianist Eubie Blake, an original
*On this date Eubie Blake was born in 1883.
May 26 1883
Music 		  Cincinnati's own, Mamie Smith!
Mamie Smith, an African-American singer, was born on this date in 1883 in Cincinnati, OH.
January 29 1885
Music 		  The life and times of bluesman Leadbelly
*On this date we mark the birth of LeadBelly in 1885.
May 11 1885
Music 		  King Oliver, a pioneer of Jazz!
King Oliver, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1885 in Donaldsyille, LA.
May 26 1885
Music 		  Nora Douglas Holt, a musical pioneer!
*The birth of Nora Douglas Holt in 1885 is celebrated on this date.
April 26 1886
Music 		  Ma Rainey, pioneer who nurtured the Blues!
*On this date in 1886, Blues Entertainer Ma Rainey was born.
May 4 1886
Music 		  Lyricist extraordinaire, Shelton Brooks!
Shelton Brooks, a popular African-American music composer, was born on this date in 1886,in Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada.
December 25 1886
Music 		  Kid Ory, "tailgate" trombonist & composer.
On this date Kid Ory was born in 1886.
August 7 1887
Music 		  Luckey Roberts, a piano's best friend!
On this date Luckey Roberts was born in 1887.
September 19 1887
Music 		  Lovie Austin, gone but never forgotten!
*The birth of Lovie Austin was in 1887 is marked on this date.
November 22 1888
Music 		  The Louisiana Lady of Creole music, Camille Nickerson!
The birth of Camille Nickerson in 1888 is celebrated on this date.
July 10 1889
Music 		  A musical legend, Noble Sissle!
Noble Sissle, an African-American musician and lyricist, was born on this date in 1889.
January 14 1890
Music 		  The Blues are born from the African American liefstyle
On this date we focus on Blues music in America.
October 20 1890
Music 		  Composer Jelly Roll Morton, ragtime to early jazz.
Jelly Roll Morton was born on this date in 1890.
March 8 1892
Music 		  A Delta original, Mississippi John Hurt . . .
*Mississippi John Hurt was born on this date in 1892.
January 24 1893
Music 		  Elizabeth Cotten, a master guitarist!
*Elizabeth Cotten’s birth in late January 1893 is celebrated on this date.
June 26 1893
Music 		  Blues guitarist, Big Bill Broonzy . . .
On this date, we celebrate the birth of Big Bill Broonzy in 1893.
February 1 1894
Music 		  James P. Johnson, a stride piano style founder
*This date marks the birth of James Price Johnson in 1894.
April 15 1894
Music 		  Bessie Smith, "Blues Empress".
This date marks the birthday of Bessie Smith in 1894.
August 14 1894
Music 		  The original "Bricktop," Ada Smith. . .
*Ada Smith was born on this date in 1894.
November 13 1894
Music 		  Pianist Bennie Moten, an important musician in the development of jazz
*On this date in 1894, Bennie Moten was born.
March 31 1895
Music 		  Blues with a touch of Creole, Lizzie Miles
*On this date in 1895, Lizzie Miles was born.
April 1 1895
Music 		  Blues singer of the twentieth century, Alberta Hunter
On this date in 1895, Alberta Hunter was born in Memphis, TN.
April 23 1895
Music 		  Jimmie Noone, a polished player of jazz!
This date marks the birth of Jimmie Noone in 1895.
June 22 1895
Music 		  St. Louis Woman, Eva Taylor!
Eva Taylor was born on this date in 1895.
November 20 1895
Music 		  Sallie Martin was great for the business of gospel.
Sallie Martin was born on this date in 1895.
December 15 1895
Music 		  Andy Razaf, prolific black lyricist, finally recognized in Hall of Fame
On this date in 1895, Andriamanantena Paul Razafinkarefo, better known as Andy Razaf, was born.
February 25 1896
Music 		  Ida Cox, Blues woman of the times
*On this date in 1896, Ida Cox was born.
September 2 1896
Music 		  Edith Wilson, a blues singer who crossed over!
Edith Wilson was born on this date in 1896.
April 1 1897
Music 		  Lucille Bogen sang it like it was
On this date in 1897, Lucille Bogen was born.
May 14 1897
Music 		  Sidney Bechet played and taught jazz. .
Sidney Bechet was born on this date in 1897 in New Orleans.
June 3 1897
Music 		  Memphis Minnie, a great blues singer!
Memphis Minnie was born on this date in 1897.
July 22 1897
Music 		  Blind Lemon Jefferson, an originator of the blues
This date celebrates the birth of Blind Lemon Jefferson in 1897.
November 25 1897
Music 		  From Shul to Parish, Willie "the Lion" Smith had much to say.
On this date in 1897, “Willie the Lion” Smith was born in Goshen, New York.
November 29 1897
Music 		  Lucille Hegamin, a Georgia Blues singer.
Lucille Hegamin was born on this date in 1897.
December 18 1897
Music 		  Fletcher Henderson band first to play jazz
On this date in 1897, Fletcher Henderson was born.
February 3 1898
Music 		  "Lil" Hardin, a complete entertainment package
*Lillian "Lil" Hardin was born this date in 1898.
February 20 1898
Music 		  Mr. Boogie Woogie, James Yancey!
*James Yancey was born on this date in 1898.
May 14 1898
Music 		  Zutty Singleton, a specialist on drums. .
On this date in 1898, Zutty Singleton was born.
May 28 1898
Music 		  Andy Kirk, a Rocky Mountain. Bandleader!
Andy Kirk was born on this date in 1898.
October 8 1898
Music 		  Clarence Williams, shrewd entrepreneur and influential in jazz and blues
Clarence Williams was born on this date in 1898.
November 1 1898
Music 		  The Texas Nightingale, Sippie Wallace!
On this date in 1898, Sippie Wallace was born in Houston, Texas.
December 24 1898
Music 		  Baby Dodds, one of the first jazz percussionists on record
On this date we mark the birth of Warren “Baby” Dodds, born in 1898.
April 29 1899
Music 		  Jazz legend Duke Ellington, one of the greatest!
*On this date in 1899, Duke Ellington was born.
July 1 1899
Music 		  Thomas Dorsey, a premire gospel composer!
*Thomas Dorsey was born on this date in 1899.
July 12 1899
Music 		  Roy Butler, a steady jazz saxophonist. .
Roy Butler, an African-American jazz musician, was born on this date in 1899.
September 26 1899
Music 		  William Dawson, international composer and conductor of renown
William Levi Dawson was born on this date in 1899, in Anniston, AL.
December 14 1899
Music 		  Deford Bailey, first Black star of the Grand Ole Opry
Deford Bailey was born on this date in 1899.
February 3 1900
Music 		  A cabaret original, Mabel Mercer
*Mabel Mercer was born on this date in 1900.
February 15 1901
Music 		  Kokomo Arnold, Georgia bluesman!
*Kokomo Arnold was born on this date in 1901.
June 15 1901
Music 		  Excellent composer, John Westley Work!
On this date in 1901 John Wesley Work III was born.
August 4 1901
Music 		  Louis Armstrong, African America's gift to the world. .
*This date marks the birth of Louis Armstrong.
November 16 1901
Music 		  The Godfather of Rock & Roll, Jesse Stone!
Jesse Stone was born on this date in 1901.
February 9 1902
Music 		  Blanche Calloway, bandleader and much more
*Blanche Calloway was born on this date in 1902.
March 21 1902
Music 		  A major blues player from the Delta, Son House
*On this date in 1902, Son House was born.
June 6 1902
Music 		  Band leader Jimmie Lunceford was an original
This date in 1902 marks the birth of Jimmie Lunceford, an African-American musician and arranger, and one of the great band leaders of the swing era.
August 26 1902
Music 		  Jimmy Rushing, Mister "Five by Five".
On this date we mark the birth of Jimmy Rushing in 1902.
August 27 1902
Music 		  Mary " Diamond Teeth" McClain, an original!
Mary Smith McClain was born on this date in 1902.
October 31 1902
Music 		  Julia Lee, one of great female blues singers
Julia Lee was born on this date in 1902.
December 6 1902
Music 		  Blind Willie Johnson, gospel singer with power.
On this in 1902, date we remember the birth of Blind Willie Johnson.
December 28 1903
Music 		  Earl Hines, "Fatha" of jazz piano!
This date is the birthday of Earl "Fatha" Hines, born in 1903.
May 21 1904
Music 		  Fats Waller, a talented yet misunderstood Icon
Fats Waller, an African-American composer, singer, and entertainer, was born on this date in 1904.
June 23 1904
Music 		  Willie Mae Smith, a gospel and secular voice . . .
On this date in 1904, Willie Mae Ford Smith was born.
August 21 1904
Music 		  Count Basie, a multi-talented jazz pianist, organist, bandleader, and composer
It was on this date in 1904, that Count Basie was born.
November 21 1904
Music 		  Coleman Hawkins, a jazz tenor legend.
Coleman Hawkins, an African-American jazz composer and saxophonist, was born on this date in 1904.
November 27 1904
Music 		  Eddie South, a jazz violinist trailblzer
On this date in 1904, Eddie South was born.
January 11 1905
Music 		  Mr. Boogie Woogie, "Pine Top" Smith!
Pine Top” Smith, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1904.
January 13 1905
Music 		  The Voice of Ellington, Ivie Anderson. .
On this date we celebrate the birth of Ivie Anderson in Born in Gilroy, CA, Ivie Marie Anderson was orphaned as a child and was subsequently raised in convents.
March 31 1905
Music 		  Big Maceo, heavy-handed piano, great voice
*On this date we recall the birth of Big Maceo in 1905.
June 2 1905
Music 		  Valaida Snow, a phenomental entertainer!
Valaida Snow was born on this date in 1905.
June 13 1905
Music 		  A trumpeter of excellence, Doc Cheatham. .
On this date in 1905, Doc Cheatham, an African-American musician, was born.
September 3 1905
Music 		  Meade Lux Lewis, true Boogie Woogie piano.
*On this date in 1905, Meade Lux Lewis was born.
January 31 1906
Music 		  Roosevelt Sykes could play those 88's
*On this date in 1906, Roosevelt Sykes was born.
April 18 1906
Music 		  Lil Brother, a blues singer from the delta!
Little Brother” Montgomery was born on this date in 1906.
June 20 1906
Music 		  Bob Howard entertained using all media. .
Bob Howard was born on this date in 1906.
August 19 1906
Music 		  Eddie Durham, a foundation in Jazz. . .
*Eddie Durham was born on this date in 1906.
October 15 1906
Music 		  She could do it all, Victoria Spivey.
On this date in 1906, Victoria Spivey was born.
February 12 1907
Music 		  Roberta Martin, gospels true voice!
*Roberta Martin was born on this date in 1907.
July 25 1907
Music 		  Ellington's best saxophonist, Johnny Hodges!
Johnny Hodges was born on this date in 1907.
August 5 1907
Music 		  A Woman with serious swing, Ernestine Davis!
*Ernestine "Tiny" Davis was born this date in 1907.
August 8 1907
Music 		  Benny Carter, a player and "teacher" of jazz!
*On this date in 1907, Benny Carter was born.
December 25 1907
Music 		  Cab Calloway, timeless top-flight musician
This date marks the birth of “Cab" Calloway, who was born on Christmas day in 1907.
January 7 1908
Music 		  One of Louisiana's finest, "Red" Allen!
*Red Allen was born on this date in 1908.
July 8 1908
Music 		  Louis Jordan, musician and showman!
Louis Jordan was born on this date in 1908.
July 24 1908
Music 		  An innovator on trumpet, Cootie Williams. .
On this date we mark the birth of Cootie Williams in 1908.
October 6 1908
Music 		  Sammy Price, twentieth century jazz pianist.
On this date in 1908, Sammy Price, an African-American jazz pianist, was born.
December 24 1908
Music 		  Jabbo Smith, the trumpet never sounded better!
Jabbo Smith was born on Christmas Eve in 1908.
December 31 1908
Music 		  Jonah Jones, a true Trumpeter!
*On this date in 1908, Jonah Jones was born.
February 10 1909
Music 		  "Chick" Webb, the drummer who led the band!
*On this date in 1909 “Chick” Webb was born.
March 27 1909
Music 		  Ben Webster played a sultry Sax...
*On this date in 1909, Ben Webster was born.
April 12 1909
Music 		  A true jazz institution, Lionel Hampton.
On this date in 1909, Lionel Hampton was born.
June 19 1909
Music 		  Joe Thomas, a consistent musician!
Joe Thomas, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1909.
August 14 1909
Music 		  Stuff Smith, one of the best at his craft!
*On this date in 1909, Stuff Smith was born.
August 27 1909
Music 		  The "Prez," Lester Young!
On this date in 1909, African-American jazz saxophonist Lester Young was born.
October 13 1909
Music 		  Art Tatum, one of the great jazz pianists of all time
Art Tatum, an African-American pianist, and one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, was born on this date in 1909, in Toledo, OH.
October 17 1909
Music 		  One of the best jazz drummers, "Cozy" Cole.
On this date in 1909, jazz drummer William Randolph “Cozy” Cole was born in East Orange, New Jersey.
April 1 1910
Music 		  Harry Carney was a sideman with Duke
On this date in 1910, Harry Carney was born.
May 8 1910
Music 		  Mary Lou Williams played piano with spiritual style.
This date in 1910 marks the birth of Mary Lou Williams, an African American jazz composer, arranger, and pianist.
June 10 1910
Music 		  Howlin Wolf, a symbol of urban blues. .
This date marks the birth of Howlin' Wolf in 1910.
December 17 1910
Music 		  Sy Oliver, jazz legend of the 30's and 40's.
Sy Oliver was born on this date in 1910.
January 4 1911
Music 		  Slim Gaillard entertained with variety.
Slim Gaillard, was born on this date in 1911.
January 25 1911
Music 		  Truck Parham, one of Chicago's finest!
*Truck Parham was born on this date in 1911.
January 30 1911
Music 		  Roy Eldridge played more than just Bebop
*On this date Roy Eldridge was born in 1911.
May 8 1911
Music 		  Bluesman of myth and reality, Robert Johnson. .
On this date in 1911, Robert Johnson was born.
May 18 1911
Music 		  Big Joe Turner, a powerful blues voice. .
On this date, we celebrate the birth of Big Joe Turner in 1911.
October 24 1911
Music 		  Bluesman Sonny Terry, international popular attraction
This date marks the birth of Sonny Terry, born in 1911.
November 12 1911
Music 		  One of the clearest of trumpets, Buck Clayton!
On this date in 1911, Buck Clayton was born.
March 15 1912
Music 		  The best of Texas blues, Lightnin Hopkins
*On this date, in 1912, we remember the birth of Lightnin Hopkins.
October 21 1912
Music 		  Don Byas, versatile and ubiquitous tenor player of the 1940s
On this date in 1912, Don Byas was born in Oklahoma.
November 24 1912
Music 		  Teddy Wilson, jazz pianist of swing-era.
This date marks the birth of Teddy Wilson, an African-American musician, in 1912.
March 31 1913
Music 		  Etta Baker, the original is still the greatest. . .
*Etta Baker was born on this date in 1913.
June 23 1913
Music 		  Helen Humes, a voice with style . . .
On this date in 1913, Helen Humes was born.
July 5 1913
Music 		  Smiley Lewis, an R&B music pioneer!
Smiley Lewis was born on this date in 1913.
January 9 1914
Music 		  Bebop's first drummer, Kenny Clark
Kenny Clark was born on this date in 1914.
July 8 1914
Music 		  Billy Eckstine, a voice of distinction!
This date marks the day Billy Eckstine was born in 1914.
October 10 1914
Music 		  A bright star from Texas, Ivory Joe Hunter.
On this date in 1914, Ivory Joe Hunter was born.
December 28 1914
Music 		  "Pops" Staples sang solo and with his family
On this date "Pops" Staples, an African-American gospel and blues singer, was born in 1914.
January 10 1915
Music 		  Dean Dixon, a world renowned conductor. . .
This is the day of Dean Dixon’s birth on this date in 1915.
February 11 1915
Music 		  A master of Folk/Blues, Josh White
*Josh White was born on this date in 1915.
March 20 1915
Music 		  Gospel singer Sister Rosetta Tharpe had a spiritual show!
*Sister Rosetta Tharpe was born on this date in 1915.
April 4 1915
Music 		  Muddy Waters, magnolia state blues legend
*This date marks the birth of Muddy Waters in 1915.
April 7 1915
Music 		  Billie Holiday, "One of a kind" jazz/blues singer
*Billie Holiday was born on this date in 1915.
April 26 1915
Music 		  Johnny Shines, Tennessee bluesman. .
*Johnny Shines was born on this date in 1915.
July 1 1915
Music 		  Blues legend Willie Dixon influenced R&R. .
Willie Dixon was born on this date in 1915.
July 21 1915
Music 		  Floyd McDaniel, a Chicago bluesman!
On this date in 1915, Floyd McDaniel, an African-American blues singer and musician, was born.
August 16 1915
Music 		  A unique voice, Al Hibbler!
*Albert George Hibbler was born on this date 1915.
October 10 1915
Music 		  Harry "Sweets" Edison, witty, inventive, jazz artist
Harry Edison, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1915 born in Columbus, Ohio.
November 29 1915
Music 		  Billy Strayhorn, sophisticated composer
On this date in 1915, Billy Strayhorn was born.
November 30 1915
Music 		  Bluesman Brownie McGhee, a Tennessee bluesman
On this date, Brownie McGhee was born in 1915.
December 26 1915
Music 		  Pianist and singer, Una Mae Carlisle.
On this date in 1915, Una Mae Carlisle was born.
January 12 1916
Music 		  Jay McShann, one of Kansas Cities finest. . .
This date marks the birth of Jay McShann in 1916.
July 29 1916
Music 		  Charlie Christian, the father of jazz guitar
On this date in 1916, Charlie Christian was born.
October 21 1916
Music 		  An entertainment pioneer, Hadda Brooks!
Hadda Brooks was born on this date in 1916.
February 21 1917
Music 		  Tadd Dameron, jazz pianist who influenced many!
*Tadd Dameron was born on this date in 1917 in Cleveland, Ohio.
March 26 1917
Music 		  A Funky, Funky player, Rufus Thomas. . .
*On this date Rufus Thomas was born in 1917.
October 10 1917
Music 		  Thelonious Monk, High Priest of Bebop
Thelonious Monk was born on this date in 1917.
October 21 1917
Music 		  The heart of jazz, Dizzy Gillespie.
On this date in 1917, Dizzy Gillespie was born.
December 18 1917
Music 		  Houston's own, Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson!
Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson was born on this date in 1917.
January 27 1918
Music 		  The main source of the electric guitar, Elmore James
*Elmore James was born on this date in 1918.
April 16 1918
Music 		  Carol Brice, one of Oklahoma's finest!
Carol Brice was born on this date 1918.
April 25 1918
Music 		  Ella Fitzgearld, "The Fist Lady of Song".
This date in 1918 marks the birth of Ella Fitzgerald.
August 3 1918
Music 		  Eddie Jefferson sang early "vocalese". .
*On this date in 1918 Eddie Jefferson was born.
August 10 1918
Music 		  Houston's own, saxophonist Arnett Cobb!
*On this date in 1918, Arnett Cobb was born.
September 4 1918
Music 		  One of California's finest, Gerald Wilson!
*Gerald Wilson was born on this date in 1918.
December 19 1918
Music 		  A New Orleans original, Professor Longhair.
Professor Longhair was born this date 1918.
March 14 1919
Music 		  An orchestra's best friend, Luther Henderson!
*The birth of Luther Henderson in 1919 is celebrated on this date.
March 17 1919
Music 		  One of the best voices ever, Nat King Cole.
*This date remembers Nat King Cole, born in 1919.
October 11 1919
Music 		  Art Blakey was a renown jazz player!
*Art Blakey was born on this date in 1919.
April 8 1920
Music 		  Jazz singer Carmen McRae sang with passion
*Carmen McRae was born on this date in 1920.
May 3 1920
Music 		  John Lewis, MJQ's source point!
John Lewis was born on this date in 1920.
August 17 1920
Music 		  John Lee Hooker, Boogie with the Blues . . .
*On this date in 1917, John Lee Hooker was born.
August 29 1920
Music 		  Saxophonist Charlie (the Bird) Parker, developer of bebop and honored saxaphonist
On this date in 1920, Charlie Parker was born, an American alto saxophone player, a founder of the bebop jazz style, and one of the most influential musicians in the history of jazz.
October 10 1920
Music 		  Dr. Yusef Lateef, composer,a flutist, oboist, and tenor saxophonist of international repute
On this date in 1920, Yusef Lateef was born.
September 16 1921
Music 		  Jon Hendricks, a voice of distinction.
*On this date in 1921, Jon Hendricks was born.
October 28 1921
Music 		  Afro-Cuban music legend, Arturo O'Farrill.
Arturo Chico O'Farrill was born on this date in 1921.
April 6 1922
Music 		  Windy City pianist, Dorothy Donegan.
This date recalls the birth of Dorothy Donegan in 1922.
April 22 1922
Music 		  Charles Mingus, a philosophical bassist and composer.
This date marks the birth of Charles Mingus in 1922.
September 13 1922
Music 		  Charles Brown was a smooth blues singer!
On this date in 1922 Charles Brown was born.
October 31 1922
Music 		  Illinois Jacquet, a jazz player for over 50 years!
Illinois Jacquet was born on this date in 1922.
January 1 1923
Music 		  Detroit's own, jazz great Milt Jackson.
Milt Jackson was born on this date in 1923.
February 27 1923
Music 		  Saxophonist, Dexter Gordon exemplified the culture of jazz!
*Dexter Gordon was born on this date in 1923.
April 25 1923
Music 		  Albert Kings blues style influenced many.
On this date Albert King was born in 1923.
May 21 1923
Music 		  Doris Akers, an American gospel composer and vocalist
Doris Akers was born on this date in 1923.
June 15 1923
Music 		  Erroll Garner played and composed by ear. . .
This date marks the birthday of Erroll Garner in 1923.
July 3 1923
Music 		  Johnny Hartman had a great voice. .
Johnny Hartman, an African-American singer, was born on this date in 1923.
July 15 1923
Music 		  "The Beat of Jazz," Philly Jo Jones!
Philly Joe Jones was born on this date in 1923.
September 24 1923
Music 		  Trumpeter Fats Navarro, beauty and fullness from a Bebop founder
On this date in 1923, Fats Navarro was born.
January 10 1924
Music 		  Drummer Max Roach breaks new ground
Max Roach was born on this date in 1924.
February 2 1924
Music 		  Sonny Stitt was one of saxophones best
*On this date in 1924, Edward “Sonny” Stitt was born.
March 27 1924
Music 		  Sarah Vaughn, could she sing or WHAT!
*Sarah Vaughan was born on this date in 1924.
April 18 1924
Music 		  Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Nuf Said!
Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown was born on this date in 1924.
April 21 1924
Music 		  One of gospels best, Clara Ward.
On this date in 1924, Clara Ward was born.
May 1 1924
Music 		  Big Maybelle, a tough act to follow!
On this date in 1924, Big Maybelle was born.
August 23 1924
Music 		  Wynona Carr, an early crossover artist!
Wynona Carr was born on this date in 1924.
August 29 1924
Music 		  Dinah Washington, a passionate blues singer. .
On this date in 1924, Dinah Washington was born.
September 15 1924
Music 		  An American treasure, Bobby Short!
*Bobby Short was born on this date in 1924.
September 27 1924
Music 		  Jazz pianist Bud Powell, a serious player!
Bud Powell, an African-American jazz pianist and composer, was born on this date in 1924.
October 21 1924
Music 		  Celia Cruz, an Afro-Cuban legend!
*Celia Cruz was boron on this date in 1924.
January 7 1925
Music 		  Patricia Walton, Jazz ambassador!
*Patricia Walton was born on this date in 1925.
March 6 1925
Music 		  Wes Montgomery, jazz guitarist who influenced many.
*This date marks Wes Montgomery’s birth in 1925.
April 14 1925
Music 		  Saxophonist Gene Ammons, a gentle reed player!
Saxophonist Gene Ammons was born on this date in 1925.
July 17 1925
Music 		  Jimmy Scott, a unique voice!
Jimmy Scott was born on this date in 1925.
August 15 1925
Music 		  A brilliant pianist, Oscar Peterson!
*Oscar Peterson was born on this date in 1925.
September 6 1925
Music 		  A talented, bluesman with a simple, accessible style, Jimmy Reed.
On this date in 1925, Jimmy Reed was born.
September 10 1925
Music 		  Roy Brown, a rocker with gospel roots!
*Roy Brown was born on this date in 1925.
September 16 1925
Music 		  B. B. King, a bluesman supreme.
*B.
January 18 1926
Music 		  Johnny Bragg, singer from behind the walls!
Johnny Bragg was born on this date in 1926.
May 26 1926
Music 		  Miles Davis, innovative, influential, and respected jazz legend
Miles Davis was born on this date in 1926.
August 16 1926
Music 		  Mal Waldron, a classy pianist!
*Mal Waldron was born on this date in 1926.
September 17 1926
Music 		  One of jazz organs best, Jack McDuff!
*On this date in 1926 Jack McDuff was born.
September 23 1926
Music 		  John Coltrane, inspiring, innovative, ground-breaking jazz saxophone player
On this date in 1926, jazz saxophone player John Coltrane was born.
September 23 1926
Music 		  Joe Hill Louis, a one-man-band instrumentalist whose life was cut short.
On this date in 1921, Joe Hill Louis was born.
October 9 1926
Music 		  Oscar Brown Jr. talented actor, director songwriter, activist, TV host
Oscar Brown, Jr.
October 13 1926
Music 		  Ray Brown, Bass player extraordinaire!
Ray Brown was born on this date in 1926.
October 18 1926
Music 		  Rock & Roll Icon, Chuck Berry.
On this date in 1926, Chuck Berry was born.
November 23 1926
Music 		  R.L. Burnside, a Magnolia blues man!
R.
December 11 1926
Music 		  Big Mama Thornton, American rhythm and blues singer and songwriter
Big Mama Thornton was born on this date in 1926.
April 7 1927
Music 		  Babatunde Olatunji conveyed African percussion!
*Babatunde Olatunji was born on this date in 1927.
April 27 1927
Music 		  A soft intensive drummer, Connie Kay. .
*Connie Kay was born on this date in 1927.
May 30 1927
Music 		  Clora Bryant, Gal With A Horn!
Clora Bryant, an African-American jazz trumpeter, was born on this date in 1927.
June 15 1927
Music 		  An incredible pianist, Natalie Hinderas!
On this date we recognize the birth of Natalie Hinderas in 1927.
September 9 1927
Music 		  The Jazz Machine, Elvin Jones!
Elvin Jones was born on this date in 1927.
January 12 1928
Music 		  Ruth Brown set many vocal standards!
Born in Portsmouth, VA, Brown sang in the church choir and then joined Lucky Millinder's big band after winning a talent contest at Harlem's Apollo Theater.
February 20 1928
Music 		  Bettye Miller sang with style!
*Bettye Miller’s birth in 1928 is celebrated on this date.
June 20 1928
Music 		  Simply brilliant, Eric Dolphy. .
On this date in 1928, Eric Dolphy was born.
August 21 1928
Music 		  Art Farmer, jazz trumpeter with a polished sound!
This date marks the birth of Art Farmer in 1928.
September 2 1928
Music 		  One of "Bops" best composers, Horace Silver!
*Horace Silver was born on this date in 1928.
September 15 1928
Music 		  Cannonball Adderly was a "Hard Bop" jazz great.
*On this date in 1928, Julian Edwin "Cannonball" Adderly was born.
November 13 1928
Music 		  Hampton Hawes, jazz pianist of the 1950's!
Hampton Hawes, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1928 in Los Angeles, California.
November 25 1928
Music 		  Singer Etta Jones had a pure style.
On this date in 1928, Etta Jone, an African-American jazz singer, was born in Aiken, South Carolina.
December 8 1928
Music 		  Jimmy Smith made the organ a legitimate jazz instrument
Jimmy Smith, an African-American jazz musician, was born this date in 1928.
December 30 1928
Music 		  A true music original, Bo Diddley!
Bo Diddley, an African-American musician, was born on this date in 1928.
January 2 1929
Music 		  Arthur Prysock had a rich baritone for ballad and band singing
Arthur Prysock, an African-American singer, was born on this date in 1929.
April 16 1929
Music 		  Ed Townsend was a lyricist from his heart!
Ed Townsend was born on this date in 1929.
June 9 1929
Music 		  Johnny Ace, a smooth R&B singer!
*On this date in 1929, Johnny Ace was born.
November 11 1929
Music 		  LaVern Baker, a powerful, soulful voice!
On this date in 1929, LaVern Baker, an African-American singer and entertainer, was born.
November 28 1929
Music 		  Berry Gordy Jr., Motown founder and brilliant ntrepreneur
Berry Gordy, Jr.
March 17 1930
Music 		  Grover Mitchell, a Basie original!
*The birth of Grover Mitchell in 1930 is marked on this date.
March 21 1930
Music 		  Bluesman Otis Spann played a killer piano
*On this date in 1930, Otis Spann was born.
May 1 1930
Music 		  Little Walter was a blues innovator.
On this date in 1930, Little Walter was born.
May 16 1930
Music 		  Betty Carter, You Go Girl!
Betty Carter was born this date in 1930.
July 2 1930
Music 		  Ahmad Jamal, acclaimed jazz pianist
Ahmad Jamal was born on this date in 1930.
July 7 1930
Music 		  A quick saxophone with quality, Hank Mobley . . .
Hank Mobley was born on this date in 1930.
September 7 1930
Music 		  Sonny Rollins, one of the jazz greats
On this date in 1930, Sonny Rollins was born.
September 23 1930
Music 		  Ray Charles, a complete, well-rounded, rare musical talent
Ray Charles, an African-American singer, composer, and arranger, was born on this date in 1930.
October 30 1930
Music 		  Clifford Brown, jazz trumpet genius!
On this date Clifford Brown, an African-American jazz trumpeter, was born in 1930.
December 31 1930
Music 		  Odetta, the soul of American folk music!
*The birth of Odetta is marked on this in 1930.
May 11 1931
Music 		  The Blind Boys from Alabama, Gospel Icons!
On this date we celebrate the beginning of Clarence Fountain and The Blind Boys of Alabama in 1931.
May 24 1931
Music 		  Otis Blackwell held the pen of musical success!
Otis Blackwell’s birth in 1931 is celebrated on this date.
June 14 1931
Music 		  An All-Star of Motown, Junior. Walker!
*Junior Walker was born on this date in 1931.
November 5 1931
Music 		  Ike Turner, soul singer with a hard edge
Ike Turner was born on this date in 1931.
November 25 1931
Music 		  Nat Adderley, musical sideman and soloist!
Nat Adderley was born on this date in 1931.
March 4 1932
Music 		  Mirriam Makeba, "Mother Africa". . .
*On this date in 1932, Mirriam Makeba was born.
May 27 1932
Music 		  Junior Parker, "Mr. Blues"
Junior Parker was born on this date in 1932.
August 17 1932
Music 		  Gospel music unionized!
*On this date in 1932, the first Gospel Choral Union was organized.
October 16 1932
Music 		  Henry Lewis, first black conductor of a major symphony orchestra
Henry Lewis was born on this date in 1932.
December 5 1932
Music 		  Little Richard, an original rocker!
On this date in 1932, Little Richard was born.
February 21 1933
Music 		  Nina Simone, more than a voice
*Nina Simone was born on this date in 1933.
March 14 1933
Music 		  Qunicy Jones, a global artist and entertainer.
*On this date in 1933, Quincy Jones was born.
May 3 1933
Music 		  James Brown, an icon of soul!
On this date in 1933, James Brown was born.
December 1 1933
Music 		  Lou Rawls: What a Voice!
Louis Rawls was born on this date in 1933.
December 17 1933
Music 		  Walter Booker, bass player for the stars
Walter Booker was born on this date in 1933.
March 28 1934
Music 		  Jubilee Gospel, the Golden Gate Quartet!
*This date celebrates the formation of the Golden Gate Quartet in 1934.
June 9 1934
Music 		  Jackie Wilson was Mr. Excitement!
*On this date in 1934, Jackie Wilson was born.
July 23 1934
Music 		  Steve Lacy, soprano saxaphonist , expanded his range of styles
Steve Lacy was born on this date in 1934.
September 3 1934
Music 		  Freddie King, a real blues player!
*Freddie King was born on this date in1934.
October 20 1934
Music 		  The "Electrifying" Eddie Harris!
On this date in 1934, Eddie Harris, an African-American jazz saxophonist and vocalist was born in Chicago.
January 22 1935
Music 		  Vocalist Sam Cooke was more than a singer
On this date in 1935, Sam Cook, an African-American songwriter and perform, was born.
August 7 1935
Music 		  Roland Kirk, a jazz purist!
*Roland Kirk was born on this date in 1935.
September 30 1935
Music 		  Singer Johnny Mathis, smooth & passionate!
This date marks the birth of Johnny Mathis in 1935.
December 23 1935
Music 		  Esther Phillips, a unique soulful singer!
sther Phillips was born on this date in 1935.
July 13 1936
Music 		  Jazzman Albert Ayler, a unique sound!
Albert Ayler, an African-American musician, was born July 13, 1936.
October 11 1936
Music 		  Billy Higgins, drummer with "loose control"
Billy Higgins was born on this date in 193 in Los Angeles.
November 18 1936
Music 		  Don Cherry, innovative jazz artist with no limits.
This date marks the birth of Don Cherry in 1936.
November 21 1936
Music 		  James DePreist, gifted and versatile, one of America's finest musicians
ames DePreist was born on this date in 1936.
February 20 1937
Music 		  Nancy Wilson, a voice with style!
*Nancy Wilson was born on this date in 1937.
April 24 1937
Music 		  Joe Henderson represented jazz with style.
On this date in 1937, Joe Henderson was born.
August 3 1937
Music 		  Wings Over Jordan Choir; an original!
*On this date from 1937, we celebrate the founding of Wings Over Jordan Choir.
August 27 1937
Music 		  Alice Coltrane had a jazz voice of her own!
Alice Coltrane was born on this date in 1937.
December 25 1937
Music 		  O'Kelly Isley, one of the original Brothers!
On this date in 1937, O’Kelly Isley was born.
January 25 1938
Music 		  A voice of passion, Etta James!
*Etta James was born on this date in 1938.
May 5 1938
Music 		  Johnnie Taylor, popular in R&B or Blues!
Johnnie Taylor was born on this date in 1938.
April 2 1939
Music 		  Marvin Gaye, classic soul singer!
This date marks the birth of Marvin Gaye, an African
American singer, songwriter, and recording artist, in 1939.
November 23 1939
Music 		  Betty Everett reaches the top of the charts with African American and R&B
Betty Everett was born on this date in 1939.
November 26 1939
Music 		  Tina Turner, an international record breaker
Tina Turner was born on this date in 1939.
December 17 1939
Music 		  Eddie Kendricks, Temptations star--and more.
On this date in 1939, African-American singer Eddie Kendricks was born in Union Springs, AL.
April 12 1940
Music 		  Herbier Hancock, a special keyboardist..
Herbie Hancock was born on this date in 1940.
July 3 1940
Music 		  Fontella Bass, what a voice!
Fontella Bass was born on this date in 1940.
January 18 1941
Music 		  David Ruffin had a distinctive voice!
David Ruffin, an African-American singerm was born on this date in 1941.
January 21 1941
Music 		  Richie Havens, a folk artist legend!
*Richie Havens was born on this date in 1941.
March 18 1941
Music 		  A very soulful voice, Wilson Pickett!
*Wilson Pickett was born on this date in 1941.
April 30 1941
Music 		  Shirley Witherspoon, a voice with conviction!
This date celebrates the birth of Shirley Witherspoon in 1941.
July 18 1941
Music 		  Martha Reeves, a Motown Icon!
Martha Reeves was born on this date in 1941.
September 9 1941
Music 		  The embodment of Soul, Otis Redding.
On this date in 1941, Otis Redding was born.
October 11 1941
Music 		  Avant Garde + Fun = Lester Bowie!
Lester Bowie was born on this date in 1941.
January 21 1942
Music 		  A soul shouting legend, Edwin Starr!
*Edwin Starr was born on this date in 1942.
March 25 1942
Music 		  One of the best singers ever, Aretha Franklin!
*Aretha Franklin was born on this date in 1942.
May 17 1942
Music 		  Taj Mahal, a global musician.
Taj Mahal was born on this date in 1942.
June 3 1942
Music 		  Singer/composer Curtis Mayfield made an impression
Curtis Mayfield was born on this date in 1942.
August 20 1942
Music 		  Isaac Hayes, Soul Icon!
Issac Hayes was born on this date in 1942.
November 27 1942
Music 		  Jimi Hendrix, blues guitarist reaches rock stardom
Jimi Hendrix was born on this date in 1942.
February 9 1943
Music 		  Barbara Lewis, a smooth singer
*Barbara Lewis was born on this date in 1943.
May 13 1943
Music 		  Mary Wells, a soulfully smooth voice. .
On this date in 1943, Mary Wells was born.
June 29 1943
Music 		  Little Eva, singer of the 1960s!
Little Eva was born on this date in 1943.
September 1 1943
Music 		  Multitalented, Webster Lewis!
*Webster Lewis was born on this date in 1943.
December 12 1943
Music 		  Jazzman Grover Washington Jr., saxophonist, clarinetist, composer
On this date in 1943, Grover Washington, Jr.
March 4 1944
Music 		  Bobby Womack, a unique style of soul!
*Bobby Womack was born on this date in 1944.
September 12 1944
Music 		  Barry White, sophisticated soul!
Barry White, an African-American singer and composer, was born on this date in 1944.
February 6 1945
Music 		  Bob Marley, singer/songwriter/activist
*This date marks the birth of Bob Marley in 1945.
April 29 1945
Music 		  Tammi Terrell, "American Idol" look no further!
*Tammi Terrell was born on this date in 1945.
December 12 1945
Music 		  A drummer with power and finesse, Tony Williams.
Tony Williams, an African-American drummer, was born in Chicago on this date in 1945.
June 20 1946
Music 		  Andre Watts is classical piano!
Andre Watts was born on this date in 1946.
October 1 1946
Music 		  Wow! what a voice, Donny Hathaway.
Donny Hathaway was born on this date in 1946.
March 6 1947
Music 		  A realist of jazz, Eric Gravatt!
*Eric Gravatt was born on this date in 1947.
November 8 1947
Music 		  A voice from heaven, Minnie Riperton!
On this date in 1947, Minnie Riperton, African-American singer with one of widest vocal ranges of any singer in the twentieth century, was born in Chicago.
February 1 1948
Music 		  Rick James, the King of Punk Funk!
*Rick James was born on this date in 1948.
December 31 1948
Music 		  Talented singer Donna Summer sometimes raised controversy
Donna Summer was born on this date in 1948.
April 1 1949
Music 		  Gil Scott-Heron: "Do" apply . . .
Gil Scott Heron was born on this date in 1949.
July 6 1949
Music 		  A Sophisticated Lady, Phyllis Hyman
On this date in 1949, Phyllis Hyman, an African-American singer and entertainer, was born.
December 15 1949
Music 		  Jazz Mecca Birdland opens!
On this date in 1949, Birdland opened it entertainment doors.
March 11 1950
Music 		  Bobby McFerrin, The Voice!
*Bobby McFerrin was born on this date in 1950.
May 13 1950
Music 		  Singer/songwriter activist, Stevie Wonder!
This date marks the birth of Stevie Wonder in 1950.
April 20 1951
Music 		  Luther Vandross, a true soul singer!
Luther Vandross was born on this date 1951.
November 30 1953
Music 		  June Pointer, Yes She Can Can.
June Pointer’s birth in 1953 is marked on this date.
June 7 1958
Music 		  Prince the artist !
Prince was born on this date in 1958.
August 29 1958
Music 		  Michael Jackson, a lengend in his own lifetime!
Michael Jackson was born on this date in 1958.
June 6 1959
Music 		  One of Minnesota's finest, Jimmy Jam Harris!
Jimmy Jam Harris was born on this date in 1959.
November 14 1959
Music 		  Valerie Wellington belted out the Blues.
On this date in 1959, Valerie Wellington was born.
October 18 1961
Music 		  Wynton Marsalis, globally known jazz musician, teacher, and winner of peace award
Wynton Marsalis was born on this date in 1961.
August 9 1963
Music 		  Whitney Houston, Up's & Down's!
*Whitney Houston was born this date in 1963.
March 10 1964
Music 		  Neneh Cherry, an interrnational Pop voice!
On this date in 1964, Neneh Cherry, an African-European pop singer, was born.
March 30 1964
Music 		  From Ohio to the world, Tracy Chapman. . .
*Tracy Chapman was born on this date in 1964.
August 3 1964
Music 		  Lucky Dube, a South African Reggae artist!
*Lucky Dube was born on this date in 1964.
January 21 1965
Music 		  A Rapper of Peace, Jam Master Jay!
*Jam Master Jay was born on this date in 1965.
March 27 1970
Music 		  Mariah Carey, a voice with range. . .
*Mariah Carey was born on this date in 1970.
April 3 1970
Music 		  RAP, a music, an industry, and a culture!
On this date we explore Rap music.
November 4 1970
Music 		  Controversial talent, Sean "Diddy" Combs!
On this date in 1970, Sean "Diddy" Combs was born.
November 22 1970
Music 		  Thomasina Petrus, a voice and much more.
Thomasina Petrus was born on this date in 1970.
January 11 1971
Music 		  Mary J. Blige found her own musical voice
Mary J.
May 27 1971
Music 		  Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, a singer who was coming home!
Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, an African-American singer, writer and entertainer, was born on this date in 1971.
June 16 1971
Music 		  Tupac Shakur was a RAP legend and singular artist
Tupac Shakur was born on this date in 1971.
May 21 1972
Music 		  Big Rapper, Notorious B.I.G.
On this date, we mark the birth of Notorious B.
August 5 1973
Music 		  Sweet Honey In The Rock, a voice of consciousness!
*On this date in 1973, we celebrate Sweet Honey In The Rock.
June 8 1977
Music 		  Kanye West , rap artist , hip hop producer, and activist
Kanye West was born on this date in 1977.
January 16 1979
Music 		  Aaliyah, vocalist and actress.
Aaliyah was born on this date in 1979.
February 22 1988
Music 		  First Rap Grammy Award given!
*On this date in 1988, DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince won the first Rap Grammy Award.
December 16 1991
Music 		  The Northern Neck Chantey Singers preserve African American work songs.
The beginning of the Northern Neck Chantey Singers in 1991 is celebrated on this date.
October 9 2003
Music 		  Black artists hold all of Billboard's Top Ten!
On this date in 2003 for the first time in the 50-year history of the Billboard music charts, all top 10 songs in the America were by black artists.
September 30 2004
Music 		  Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame dedicated!
On this date in 2004, Jazz at Lincoln Center celebrated the dedication of the Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame.
 
 

    

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