Jackson State University’s public radio station, WJSU-FM 88.5, announces special programming throughout June in recognition of Black Music Month.
Where is the Love: The Donny Hathaway Story
The African-American Public Radio Consortium (AAPRC) will present “Where is the Love: The Donny Hathaway Story,” told by his fellow Howard University alum Roberta Flack, an artistic collaborator and Hathaway’s dear friend. Through music and voice clips from his family, fellow musicians, radio personalities and recording executives, Flack examines Hathaway’s meteoric rise and the tragic end of his brief life. (Air date: 6 p.m. -7 p.m. Saturday, June 20)
Stubborn Kinda Fella: Remembering Marvin Gaye, hosted by Smokey Robinson
This particular piece is a very personal look into the man and the artist. Marvin Gaye was very complex. Clips from interviews with his younger sister, Zeola, wife, Janis, record company executives, music critics and promoters intertwine the story of his inner conflict with the making of his music, as if inseparable. They also trace his amazing evolution from background singer at Motown Records to writer, producer and vocalist with the ability to imprint the culture with his perspectives on social and personal issues — through music. (Air date: 6 p.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, June 27)
The Magic of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, hosted by Stanley Crouch
The artistic collaboration between Duke Ellington and composer/ arranger Billy Strayhorn is one of the most important in the history of American music. Duke Ellington trusted Billy Strayhorn’s artistic gifts from the moment he joined the band in 1939, until Strayhorn’s death in 1967. Strayhorn wrote many of the songs associated with the Duke Ellington Band today, including their theme song “Take the A Train,” “Satin Doll,” “Something to Live For” and many more. (Air date: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, June 28)
The presentation of these great music documentaries was made possible by the following public radio stations: WNCU in Durham N.C.; WJSU in Jackson; WURC in Holly Springs; WSNC in Winston-Salem, N.C.; KTSU in Houston; WNAA in Greensboro, N.C.; and KCEP in Las Vegas.