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Celebrating Black Music Month at The White House

Celebrating a rich cultural music history, and discussing how to bring the musicians, artists, and chefs back home to New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, LA - July 14 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- President George W. Bush hosted an exclusive performance of musical talent in support of New Orleans in the East Room of the White House this past month, and proclaimed the month of June to be Black Music Month. The President strongly acknowledged the impact of New Orleans music in African American culture during his proclamation speech, and encouraged attendees to lend their support. Invited Guests also included PopAgee Johnson, the founder of the New Orleans Music Hall of Fame.

Legendary Musical Artist B.B. King performed his signature song, "The Thrill is Gone," along with a brilliant trumpet performance by New Orleans Cultural Ambassador, Irvin Mayfield, one of New Orleans' classics, "Just A Closer Walk with Thee." The dulcet tones of Patti Austin's vocals also echoed in the White House that night; all in support of preserving some of America's greatest African American cultural contributions - Jazz, Blues, and Gospel music. *(Photo Caption: PopAgee Johnson and B.B. King)

Bringing the Musicians, Artists, and Chefs Back Home

PopAgee Johnson, founder of the New Orleans Music Hall of Fame discussed with B.B. King and other guests, his plan to build a subsidized cultural residence for the many displaced musicians, artists, and chefs that were forced to leave the wake of Hurricane Katrina. His plans include a subsidized residential downtown tower for those contributing to New Orleans culture, also incorporating a performance theater, a gourmet teaching kitchen, an audio/video recording studio, and a dedicated art gallery.

This new building would reside on the famous block of South Rampart Street, recently named by the Smithsonian as the birthplace of Jazz. Supporters, public and private investment have been flooding to this cause to help preserve and bring the city's greatest legacy, its artists and musicians, back to the city of New Orleans, where much of the music, art, and culinary talent originated.

About The New Orleans Music Hall of Fame

The New Orleans Music Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization dedicated to the unification, restoration, and preservation of the history and culture that has made New Orleans known worldwide as the birthplace of Jazz Music. The NOMHF was established in 1981, and championed the cause of New Orleans culture and music history ever since.

If you are interested in helping the New Orleans Music Hall of Fame, or donating to help bring the displaced musicians, artists, and chefs back to their native city, then contact the NOMHF today, by calling 504.861.2675, or by visiting the website, www.nomhf.org.