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African-American Music Appreciation Month

Celebrate African-American Music Appreciation Month with us! Enjoy a variety of tunes and explore the history behind this beloved genre.

Monday

1–30

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of June

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

June 1 marks the beginning of African-American Music Appreciation Month, an annual celebration of the immense contributions African-Americans have made to music throughout history. From jazz and blues to hip hop and soul, African-American musicians have shaped the soundscape of our lives in so many ways. This month is a time to reflect on the rich heritage of music created by African-Americans, as well as celebrate its continuing influence on popular culture today. So turn up the volume and get ready to dance!

TIMELINE

African-American Music Appreciation Month Timeline

African Music in America

African slaves bring their native musical styles, rhythms, and instruments to America, marking the early influence of African music in the country.

Blues and Gospel Emergence

The 1800s see the emergence of blues and gospel music, both rooted in African-American tradition and deeply influenced by the experience of slavery and the African-American church.

Jazz Age

The 1920s, also known as the Jazz Age, popularized jazz music, which has its roots in African and African American communities in New Orleans.

Rock and Roll & Soul Music

The mid-20th century gave birth to rock and roll and soul music, which were both heavily influenced by gospel, blues, and rhythm and blues.

Hip Hop Origins

Hip hop music originated in African-American and Latinx communities in the Bronx in the 1970s, including rapping, breakdancing, and graffiti writing.

African-American Music Appreciation Month

President Barack Obama officially proclaims June as African-American Music Appreciation Month as a period to appreciate the song of freedom that is embedded in the heart of our nation.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate African-American Music Appreciation Month

Listen to your favorite African-American artists

Take some time to sit back and enjoy some of the amazing music created by African-American artists. Whether it's gospel, jazz, soul, hip hop, or rap, there is something out there for everyone.

ATTEND

Attend a live music show

Find a local show featuring African-American musicians and go out and enjoy the music! It's a great way to support the local scene and enjoy some amazing music.

START

Start a music club with friends

Gather up some friends and start a music appreciation club. Listen to some different artists' music and talk about why you like or don't like them. It's a great way to learn more about music.

CREATE

Create a themed playlist

Create a themed playlist of African American music and share it with your friends. It's a great way to get others into the music and appreciate the wide range of styles that have been created by African American artists.

READ

Read about African American Music

Take some time to read up on African American Music History and learn about the struggles and successes of many African American musicians throughout history.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why African-American Music Appreciation Month is Important

African-American Music Appreciation Month celebrates diversity

Celebrating African-American music appreciation month reminds us that everyone is unique and that we should all be proud of our heritage. It is a way to honor the many cultures and backgrounds that make up our great country, while also recognizing the power of music in uniting us all.

African-American music is an important part of our culture

African-American music has shaped much of the modern music we listen to today. A large part of jazz, blues, rap, rock and even country owes its roots to African-American artists such as Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin and James Brown. Celebrating their contributions helps us recognize the importance of their art in our history and culture.

African-American music is a powerful form of expression

Not only is African-American music enjoyable to listen to, but it can also be a powerful force for political and social change. Throughout history, African American musicians have used their talents to bring attention to important issues such as racism and inequality. By honoring this special month we are able to learn more about their struggles and triumphs.

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