ATLANTA — As the country prepares to say goodbye to former President Jimmy Carter, those in the music industry are reflecting on Carter’s impact on Black music.
“Black music is obviously our pain, our struggle, our joy, but it’s also the world’s pain, struggles and joys,” Speech of the award-winning Hip-Hop group Arrested Development told Channel 2’s Audrey Washington on Thursday.
In 1979, then-President Jimmy Carter honored and recognized Black musicians by creating Black Music Month in June -- also known as African American Music Appreciation Month.
In a YouTube video from 1979, Carter explained why Black music was so significant.
“I think Black music is a way to tie Black people to their own ancestors and tie the United States to other nations of the world,” Carter said at the time.
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Speech said Carter championed Black contributions.
“When they weren’t giving recognition to these very worthy and credible artists, he made sure they were not only giving that recognition but that it was made into an entire month where students could learn about it and future generations could celebrate it,” Speech said.
At the KISS 104.1 studios in midtown Atlanta, the hosts of the morning show reflected on Carter’s determination to celebrate Black musical influences and culture.
“It just goes to show the greatness of President Carter,” said KISS 104.1 Morning Show Host Tony Sco.
“Black music is not just black culture but pop culture and it’s so important and I believe President Jimmy Carter helped push that forward,” co-host Toni Moore said.
“Just one of those men that deserves our recognition and praise, and he definitely gets it from me,” Speech added.
While Carter declared Black Music Month in 1979, President Bill Clinton signed the proclamation to recognize June as Black Music Month in 2000.
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