Commissioner Larry Johnson, in Partnership with DeKalb Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs, to Host ‘Our Soundtrack in American Music’

DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, in partnership with DeKalb Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs and the How Big Is Your Dream Foundation, where the founder and CEO is renowned drummer Jorel “JFly” Flynn, will host the “Our Soundtrack in American Music master sessions and grand finale concert at the Porter Sanford, III Performing Arts and Community Center. 

The master sessions began Tuesday, Feb. 20, and continue through Saturday, Feb. 24, with a grand finale concert on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m.

Commissioner Larry Johnson has been a catalyst and convener bringing resources to the South DeKalb area for the past 22 years. In the last 11 years Commissioner Johnson has pioneered creative economic development projects under his Renaissance initiative. 

In observance of Black History Month, there will be an unveiling of the history “Inspirational and Soul” genre of music, including the impact it has on American music today and how it has helped with coping with stress and anxiety, through the music master sessions and finale concert called, "Our Soundtrack in American Music." 

During the five-day program, student-artists are experiencing master sessions instructed by industry professionals, learning popular music progressions, and dissecting lyrics that make inspirational and soul genre unique and can aid in mental health, and identify popular artists that brought awareness to the genre. 

The educational component for “Our Soundtrack In American Music” master sessions is essential to the foundation as it continues to provide a platform that guides student-artists in polishing their talents and mastering all major aspects of music in live entertainment. 

"This initiative gives our youth an opportunity to learn and explore about African Americans contributions in this music industry”, said Commissioner Larry Johnson. My renaissance initiative was created with all in mind as we continue, to link, leverage and empower our residents.  The finale concert will be epic, and we welcome all to come out and share in this experience.

“Our Soundtrack in American Music” will culminate with special recognition of industry legends, Blind Boys of Alabama, and live performances by Regina Belle, Frank McComb, Keisha Jackson, Harold Holloway and Company with JFly as the night’s music director, Monica Kaufman Pearson as the illustrious host, alongside student-artists showcasing their experience in a free finale concert on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m.

For more information, contact Commissioner Larry Johnson’s office at 404-371-2425 or visit www.commissionerlarryjohnson.com.