Soul singer Jonathan Blanchard will be coming to Athens State University to headline an interactive concert and storytelling experience called “From History to Hip Hop” as the University celebrates Black History Month. The performance will chronicle the evolution of African American music, from the work song to hip hop. Jonathan uses music and the arts to explore historical events and social issues.
“From History to Hip Hop” showcases an array of American music, starting with songs sung by inbound slaves in the bellies of ships coming across the Atlantic Ocean and ending with the creation and introduction of hip hop as a genre.
Jonathan Blanchard recently released his first studio album titled “Freedom’s Soul…..the REVOLUTION.” His talent came to maturity while immersed in Memphis’s often raucous, inspirational, yet always divergent styles of music and art. He possesses a voice comparable in depth and richness to the great Isaac Hayes, Paul Robeson, and Barry White and creates music that allows his deep, soulfully rich voice to blend naturally with the times. He movingly conveys poignant words and melodies to evoke feelings of love, respect, hard times, and revolt. His throwback, soul stirring style of singing creates such a strong vibe that is undeniable.
Blanchard is heavily influenced by Memphis artists who preceded him such as EWF, The Bar-Kays, Isaac Hayes, and WC Handy. He describes his lyrical content as simply being “honest” and is able to express his views on an array of subject matter with commonality and practicality.
Featured as part of the “Athens Forever” Bicentennial Series, this event will take place on February 25 at 7:00 pm in McCandless Hall and will be free and open to the public. Registration is required. For more information or to register: https://bit.ly/3tJLwtL