On June 22, 2024, the Academy Center of the Arts was proud to host the free, sold out Juneteenth Celebration: Freedom’s Song, a vibrant showcase which featured a sonic timeline of spirituals and gospel music that narrated the African American journey towards freedom. The event captures the profound essence of songs that have not only enriched the gospel genre but also significantly influenced the movement for freedom and equality in America.
The musicians came together under the musical direction of Telly Tucker for this incredible evening to present 20 songs, alongside narration and spoken word performances, to illustrate the African American journey towards freedom.
We invite you to relive (or experience for the first time) the magic of this celebration with the recorded audio tracks from the performance, courtesy of Artist in Residence Phinees Robert, and event photos below, via Rick Myers.
Musical Performances By:
The Choir – Sopranos:
Morgan Quinn (Soloist)
ShaMekya Allen (Soloist)
Angela Parker
Sabrina Brown
Sherrell Preston
Jaqueline Burgess
Jennifer Carson
Sheron Simpson
The Choir – Altos:
Paris Jackson (Soloist)
LaShan Wilkes
Barbara Edwards (Soloist)
Erin Reid Austin
Carla Hamilton
Lisa Culpepper Beverly
Janet Stewart
The Choir – Tenors:
Tony Chilton
Tony Dickerson
Elder Simeon Johnson (Soloist)
Eugene H. Penick (Soloist)
Dr. John Hughes IV(Soloist)
Dr. James Stewart (Soloist)
Kelvin Davis (Soloist)
The Musicians:
Timothy Davis – Organ
Jeff Wilkes – Bass
Phinees Robert – Guitar
Tanner Sharpe – Keyboard
Gerald Tench II – Percussion
Telly Tucker – Musical Director/Keyboard
Poetry Performances By:
Angelina Dawn
Living Proof
Thank You to the Event Sponsors
