︎CULTURE
Celebrating Dyana Williams: The Mother of Black Music Month
In recognition of Black Music Month we celebrate Dyana Williams, the co-founder and matriarch of this cultural movement.
By Mya Terry ︎ | Posted on June 26, 2023
When it comes to the realm of music, there are those extraordinary individuals who, through their sheer enthusiasm and unshakable dedication, create an enduring mark on the sector. The iconic radio personality and celebrity strategist, Dyana Williams, stands tall amongst these luminaries as she has made a significant impact on the industry by promoting inclusivity and driving change. As we celebrate Black Music Month this June and every June to come in recognition of all the African American musicians' profound influence on the culture of the United States and globally, it's imperative to recognize and honor Dyana Williams, the co-founder, and matriarch of this cultural movement.
As an active member of both the local and national chapters of the now defunct Black Music Association (BMA), Dyana Williams worked closely with her former husband––Grammy Award Winning songwriter and producer as well as co-founder of Philadelphia International Records, Kenny Gamble, and radio DJ Ed Wright. The trio joined forces to propel their shared vision, leading the Black Music Association to successfully garner the attention of the Carter Administration.
On June 7, 1979, a decree was issued by President Carter where he officially recognized the month of June as Black Music Month. This was a watershed moment in history since it was the first time black music received such national notice and praise. As part of the celebration, the BMA was given the honor of hosting a concert on the White House lawn, which further solidified the importance of black music in American culture, sparking a newfound appreciation for black music amongst major labels and corporations, as well as music lovers.
As an active member of both the local and national chapters of the now defunct Black Music Association (BMA), Dyana Williams worked closely with her former husband––Grammy Award Winning songwriter and producer as well as co-founder of Philadelphia International Records, Kenny Gamble, and radio DJ Ed Wright. The trio joined forces to propel their shared vision, leading the Black Music Association to successfully garner the attention of the Carter Administration.
On June 7, 1979, a decree was issued by President Carter where he officially recognized the month of June as Black Music Month. This was a watershed moment in history since it was the first time black music received such national notice and praise. As part of the celebration, the BMA was given the honor of hosting a concert on the White House lawn, which further solidified the importance of black music in American culture, sparking a newfound appreciation for black music amongst major labels and corporations, as well as music lovers.
In a 2015 Billboard Magazine article, Dyana shares that she wrote President Clinton in 1998, pitching the Black Music Month event once again to take place at the White House, but to her surprise, the response she received shed light on the fact that while President Jimmy Carter declared the annual observance of Black music, he never signed a presidential proclamation to formalize it. The White House advised Dyana Williams to shift her focus towards lobbying Congress for legislation that would provide official recognition.
Despite the challenge, Dyana founded the International Association of African American Music Foundation (IAAAMF) and received support from Congressman Chaka Fattah of Philadelphia, who became the main sponsor of the initiative. Working together, they introduced the African American Music Bill to the House of Representatives, with the goal of officially recognizing Black Music Month.
Dyana Williams was an instrumental asset during the legislative process. She contributed her expertise to draft language for the bill and ensure that it aligned with the goals of Black Music Month. Together with Congressman Chaka Fattah, they worked tirelessly to pass House Resolution 509, also known as the African American Music Bill, in the spring of 2000.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of Dyana Williams, Black Music Month continues to flourish, a beautiful tribute to the magnificent legacy and transformative force of black music. The House Resolution 509 is a wonderful reminder of the lasting impact that passionate advocacy and collaboration can have on cultural movements. Future generations will be inspired by the tremendous achievements made by Dyana Williams, whose name will forever live on in the annals of Black music.
Despite the challenge, Dyana founded the International Association of African American Music Foundation (IAAAMF) and received support from Congressman Chaka Fattah of Philadelphia, who became the main sponsor of the initiative. Working together, they introduced the African American Music Bill to the House of Representatives, with the goal of officially recognizing Black Music Month.
Dyana Williams was an instrumental asset during the legislative process. She contributed her expertise to draft language for the bill and ensure that it aligned with the goals of Black Music Month. Together with Congressman Chaka Fattah, they worked tirelessly to pass House Resolution 509, also known as the African American Music Bill, in the spring of 2000.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of Dyana Williams, Black Music Month continues to flourish, a beautiful tribute to the magnificent legacy and transformative force of black music. The House Resolution 509 is a wonderful reminder of the lasting impact that passionate advocacy and collaboration can have on cultural movements. Future generations will be inspired by the tremendous achievements made by Dyana Williams, whose name will forever live on in the annals of Black music.
Written by:
︎ Mya Terry
Mya Terry is based in Detroit and possesses a background in public relations, with aspirations of becoming an entertainment lawyer. She brings a unique perspective and determination to make an impact in the world of media and entertainment.
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