LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Black Music Month is more than a celebration of sound; it’s a recognition of soul, identity, and history. In Arkansas, the musical legacy runs deep, rooted in the churches and neighborhoods that raised generations of groundbreaking artists.
While the first part of THV11’s Black Music Month series explored much of the history of Arkansas Black Musicians, The Chitlin’ Circuit and the Delta Blues, parr two focuses on the pride of being Black and from Arkansas through the voices of three influential Arkansans whose music has reached global audiences: gospel singer Smokie Norful, opera soprano Kristin Lewis, and hip-hop artist Epiphany Morrow.
Grammy-winning gospel artist Smokie Norful said that growing up in Pine Bluff has shaped part of his life and artistry…