First World Festival of Negro Arts (1966- )

In April 1966, The First World Festival of Negro Arts, which is now known as FESMAN, launched its debut as the first modern cultural event celebrating global Black culture. The Festival took place in Dakar, Senegal and was initiated by Senegalese president Léopold Sédar Senghor … Read MoreFirst World Festival of Negro Arts (1966- )

Thomas James Ladnier (1900–1939)

Jazz trumpeter Thomas “Tommy” Ladnier was born in Florenville/Mandeville, Louisiana, on May 28, 1900. His father was Alfred Ladnier, and his mother was Willie Williams Ladnier. He played in local bands beginning in 1914, and one of his teachers was trumpeter Bunk Johnson. In 1917, … Read MoreThomas James Ladnier (1900–1939)

Horace Tapscott (1934-1999)

Pianist, bandleader, and social activist Horace Tapscott committed his life to the empowerment of his South Central Los Angeles community.  Tapscott founded the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra and its umbrella organization, the Union of God’s Musicians and Artists Ascension (UGMAA), both of which were at … Read MoreHorace Tapscott (1934-1999)