Philadelphia Weekly

MUSIC

Celebrate Black Music Month

By Brian McManus

Add Comment | Comments: 0 | Posted Jun. 22, 2010

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Did you know June is Black Music Month? It is. And you’ve got Dyana Williams to thank. Williams, ex-wife of Kenny Gamble of the legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers Gamble and Huff, co-wrote House Concurrent Bill 509 with Chaka Fattah to get the month on the books, which was made official in ‘02 by then-president George W. Bush (take that, Kanye!). Next Wednesday, June 30, Williams will be honored with a lifetime- achievement award at an event held in the Bonnell Auditorium (Community College of Philadelphia) called “The Comeback—Philly Style,” which will feature performances of music by Philly artists you’ve heard of (Jill Scott, Boys II Men, Eve, Bilal) by Philly artists you haven’t (J-Mal, Alexis Joi, Rosie Bonds). Musiq Soulchild, Jill Scott, Jazmine Sullivan, Beanie Siegel and others will also be on hand to honor Williams. Admission is $20, event starts at 7pm.

For the last few weeks we’ve been playing Houston’s Young Mammals new LP Carrots on constant rotation (really). The fearsome foursome lay down their blissfully catchy pop tunes at Danger Danger Gallery (5013 Baltimore Ave.) this Thursday, June 24, at 8 p.m. We’re told they’ll be playing a special set inspired by Black Music Month (not really.) Head to myspace.com/dangerdangergallery for more details.