September is Gospel Music Heritage Month and the Blockson Collection is celebrating the global music career of the Reverend Joseph Williams, Jr., who will be inducted into the Black Music Hall of Fame this year.

Rev. Joe, as he is affectionately known, is an original member of the gospel singing quartet, the Sons of the Birds. The Sons of the Birds, who recorded an album and several singles for Peacock's Song Bird subsidiary in the 1960s, got their name because at one time, some of the singers were sons of members of the legendary Dixie Hummingbirds, who Rev. Joe also sang with. He is one of the founding members, along with Kenny Gamble, of the Black Music Association, which was founded over 30 years ago.

Rev. Joe started singing at age five with the Children's Church of the Air, performing at Presbyterian churches in Philadelphia and on radio and television programs. After a brief stint as a teen singing with popular groups, he joined the Gospel Stirrers. However, after he saw the Dixie Hummingbirds perform for the first time, he knew that was the caliber, professionalism, and showmanship he wanted to achieve. Before being called into ministry, Rev. Joe recorded with the Dixie Hummingbirds on their last album.

Join the conversation as Dr. Tyler and Rev. Joe educate us about the rich history and legacy of gospel music through word and song.

This program will be presented via Zoom. On the day of the program, use this link to join: https://temple.zoom.us/j/91499000220. 

All programs are free and open to all, and registration is encouraged. 

Contact Leslie Willis Lowry at lwillis@temple.edu with questions.