In celebration of Black Independence Day in America, the Hollywood Bowl hosted JUNETEENTH: A Global Celebration for Freedom concert. The sold-out show featured a diverse lineup of thoughtful, impactful, and essential Black artists. It was an unforgettable celebration of Black culture and excellence brought to life and powered by Black creators.
The star-studded lineup included performances by Anthony Hamilton, Billy Porter, Bel Biv DeVoe, Ne-Yo, and Earth Wind & Fire who recently kicked off their Miraculous Supernatural Tour with legendary guitarist Carlos Santana. The Roots and The Re-Collective Orchestra (a 68-piece all-Black symphony orchestra) also performed making history as the first time an all-Black orchestra performed on stage in the Hollywood Bowl’s 100-year history.
Guest appearances and presenters included Debbie Allen, Tisha Campbell, Michael Ealy, Lil Rel Howery, Leslie Jones, Marsai Martin, Amanda Seales, and Raven-Symoné. Principal Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Thomas Wilkins and Derrick Hodge conducted, while Adam Blackstone and Questlove served as the Musical Directors. The entire concert was broadcasted live on CNN.
By Kinya Claiborne, STYLE & SOCIETY
Photo Credit: Craig T. Mathew/Mathew Imaging, Timothy Norris and Farah Sosa
