September 4, 1981 Beyoncé Giselle Knowles, singer, songwriter, actress and model, was born in Houston, Texas. At the age of eight, Knowles, along with LaTavia Robinson and Kelly Rowland, began performing with the group Girl’s Tyme. In 1993, the group changed its name to Destiny’s Child and in 1998 they released their self-titled debut album. […]
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September 4th in African American History – Damon Kyle Wayan
September 4, 1960 Damon Kyle Wayans, comedian, writer and actor, was born in New York City. Wayans began doing stand-up comedy in 1982 and made his first film appearance in “Beverly Hills Cop” in 1984. During the 1980s, he briefly appeared as a featured performer on the television series “Saturday Night Live” and “Solid Gold.”
August 31st in African American History – Christopher “Chris” Tucker
August 31, 1972 Christopher “Chris” Tucker, comedian and actor, was born in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduating from high school, Tucker moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy and movies. He made his film debut in “House Party 3” (1994) and his first major role was in the 1995 film “Friday.”
August 29th in African American History – Michael Joseph Jackson
August 29, 1958 Michael Joseph Jackson, the “King of Pop,” was born in Gary, Indiana. Jackson made his professional debut in 1964 as a member of the Jackson 5. In 1968, they signed with Motown Records and their first four singles, “I Want You Back” (1969), “ABC” (1970), “The Love You Save” (1970), and “I’ll […]
August 27th in African American History – Francis Gregory Morris
August 27, 1996 Francis Gregory Morris, television and movie actor, died. Morris was born September 27, 1933 in Cleveland, Ohio. He began his acting career in the early 1960s with guest appearances on television shows such as “The Twilight Zone” and “Ben Casey.” In September, 1966, he was cast in his most memorable role as […]
August 17th in African American History – Pearl Mae Bailey
August 17, 1990 Pearl Mae Bailey, jazz vocalist and actress, died. Pearl Mae Bailey was born March 29, 1918 in Southampton County, Virginia. She made her stage debut at 15 when she won an amateur contest in Philadelphia. In 1941, during World War II, Bailey toured the country with the USO, singing and dancing for American […]
August 14th in African American History – Maria Halle Berry
August 14, 1968 Maria Halle Berry, actress, former model, and beauty queen, was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Prior to becoming an actress, Berry won Miss Teen All-American in 1985, Miss Ohio USA in 1986, and she was first runner-up in Miss USA 1986. That same year, she became the first African American entrant in the […]