1.Anthony Hamilton – Grammy Award-Winning Vocalist
Hailing from Charlotte, Anthony Hamilton stands out as one of the city’s most eminent artists. Recognized as a “national treasure” by the Los Angeles Times, the GRAMMY® Award-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and actor gained induction into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2017. Hamilton’s roots in South Mecklenburg High School set the stage for his illustrious career, marked by performances for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle. Renowned as the “narrator of love,” Hamilton shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his music in his 2019 book, titled Cornbread Fish ‘N Collard Greens: Inside The Music. Stay updated on Hamilton’s tour dates and stops through his website.
Connect with Anthony on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
2.DJ Fannie Mae – Singer/Songwriter/DJ
Breaking ground as the first DJ for the Charlotte Ballet, Tiffany Berry, aka “DJ Fannie Mae,” emerges as a versatile singer, songwriter, and DJ. Hailing from Raleigh, NC, Fannie Mae captivates audiences with her dynamic performances at local museums, festivals, and events. Making strides in a traditionally male-dominated arena, she has expanded her following through high-energy music sets streamed live on her social media platforms during the Coronavirus quarantine. Whether spinning oldies, trap music, gospel tunes, or original compositions, Fannie Mae has become one of Charlotte’s go-to DJs.
Connect with DJ Fannie Mae on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
3.John P. Kee – Pastor/Gospel Performer
Reverend John P. Kee stands as a highly acclaimed gospel performer, earning induction into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2007. Renowned for albums like Colorblind, The Legacy Project, and Level Next, Kee has solidified his status as a nationally celebrated contemporary gospel artist. In addition to his musical achievements, Kee is the founder of the New Life Fellowship Center in Charlotte, where he serves as the senior pastor.
Connect with John P. Kee on Facebook and Twitter
4.Dr. Fahamu Pecou – Visual & Performing Artist/Scholar
Dr. Fahamu Pecou is a distinguished visual and performing artist, recognized for merging elements of fine art and hip-hop to comment on popular culture. With a focus on representations of black masculinity and identity, Pecou served as the inaugural Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture artist-in-residence in 2010. His work spans prestigious collections worldwide, including the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Société Générale (Paris), Nasher Museum at Duke University, The High Museum of Art, Seattle Art Museum, Paul R. Jones Collection, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Georgia.
Connect with Fahamu on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
5.Fantasia Barrino – Grammy Award-Winning Vocalist/Actor
Fantasia Barrino captured the hearts of America when she claimed victory on American Idol in 2004. Hailing from High Point, North Carolina, Barrino, who also calls Charlotte home, has continued to enchant global audiences with her raw and mesmerizing vocal talent. Her soul-stirring music has not only soared to the top of the Billboard charts but has also garnered multiple Grammy nominations and awards. Beyond the music scene, Fantasia further endeared herself to audiences with an award-winning performance as Celie in the Broadway musical The Color Purple. Recognizing her outstanding contributions, she was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2014.
