Harmony In Transition: The Symbiotic Evolution of Gospel Music

The article below, written for BlackPast.org by Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., describes the role of gospel music in influencing almost all other African American musical genres and in turn impacting all American music. Professor Gates has published numerous books and produced and hosted … Read MoreHarmony In Transition: The Symbiotic Evolution of Gospel Music

Booker T & the MGs (1962-2017)

Booker T. & The MGs (the Memphis Group), a biracial jazz ensemble, was formed in 1962 in Memphis, Tennessee. The group’s original members were Booker T. Jones (organ, piano), born December 11, 1944; Lewie Steinberg (bass), born September 13, 1933; Al Jackson, Jr. (percussions), born … Read MoreBooker T & the MGs (1962-2017)

Hemsley Winfield (1907-1934)

Osborne Hemsley Winfield is considered the first African American modern dancer a pioneer of “Negro concert dancing.” Founder of the New Negro Art Theatre Dance Group, Winfield was a contemporary of Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, and Charles Weidman and active during the Harlem Renaissance. Born … Read MoreHemsley Winfield (1907-1934)

Negro String Quartet (1920-1933)

The Negro String Quartet was founded by Felix Weir in 1920 and remained active until 1933. The Quartet performed in musical programs at churches and community organizations in Harlem and at Columbia University. The Quartet was composed of Felix Weir and Arthur Boyd, first and … Read MoreNegro String Quartet (1920-1933)

The Shady Rest Golf and Country Club (1921- )

The Shady Rest Golf & Country Club in Scotch Plains, New Jersey is the oldest African American golf club in the United States. It was the mecca of black middle-class society in New Jersey from the 1920s to the 1960s with members traveling from as … Read MoreThe Shady Rest Golf and Country Club (1921- )