June 1: This Day in Black Music History

Black Music Month originated in 1979.  President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the month of June as Black Music Month to celebrate the great music, achievements, births, important timelines, events and to remember those we’ve lost.

1. Morgan Freeman

1937: Happy Birthday to Morgan Freeman who turns 77 today. Freeman began his acting career on stage and off Broadway as a singer & dancer.

2. Jackie Wilson

1962: The Apollo Theater’s entertainment lineup on this day; Jackie Wilson, The ‘5’ Royales, Big Maybelle and the Corsairs.

3. Jimmy Soul

1963:’If You Wanna Be Happy’ by Jimmy Soul was #1 song this day.