June is here, and with it comes a celebration that is music to everyone’s ears, literally. NPR Music is pulling out all the stops for this year’s Black Music Month with a stellar all-female lineup at the iconic Tiny Desk. From seasoned legends to rising stars, the diverse array of talent featured promises to be a month-long musical feast.
A Star-Studded Lineup for NPR Tiny Desk
This year’s lineup includes an impressive roster of artists: Tems, Chaka Khan, Tierra Whack, Kierra Sheard, Lakecia Benjamin, Meshell Ndegeocello, Brittney Spencer, SWV, and Flo Milli. Each of these women has made significant contributions to the music industry, and their Tiny Desk performances will showcase the breadth and depth of Black women’s impact on music.
Host and series producer Bobby Carter said in statement that the theme is, “Giving women their flowers.”
The special series will be celebrating these artists’ legacies and contributions. After each performance, the artists are presented with their favorite flowers, a symbolic gesture honoring their influence and achievements.
Kicking Off with Tems
The celebration started with Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems, whose performance set the bar high. Known for her captivating stage presence, Tems shared songs from her forthcoming debut album, “Born in the Wild.” Her set was a testament to her growth as an artist, blending Afrobeats with powerful R&B.
Tems’ journey from her Tiny Desk (home) concert a few years ago to now has been nothing short of meteoric. With collaborations with Beyoncé and writing credits for Rihanna, her name has become synonymous with excellence. Her new songs, especially “Unfortunate” and “Forever,” highlight her evolving sound and vocal prowess, while “Love Me JeJe” had the audience in a frenzy, showcasing her knack for creating infectious rhythms.
A Month of Musical Mastery
NPR Music’s Tiny Desk concerts are renowned for their intimate and stripped-down performances, offering a unique platform for artists to connect with their audience. This year’s Black Music Month lineup continues this tradition, highlighting the exceptional talent of Black women across various genres and generations.
From the iconic Chaka Khan, whose voice has shaped the sound of R&B and funk for decades, to the innovative stylings of Tierra Whack, known for her genre-defying music and creative visuals, each artist brings something unique to the table. Gospel powerhouse Kierra Sheard, jazz virtuoso Lakecia Benjamin, and the soulful Meshell Ndegeocello add further depth and diversity to the lineup.
Country artist Brittney Spencer, legendary R&B group SWV, and rap sensation Flo Milli round out the series, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of smooth jazz, heartfelt gospel, or cutting-edge rap, this lineup promises to deliver unforgettable performances.
Beyond the Music
In addition to the concerts, NPR Music is producing short-form interviews for Instagram, offering fans a glimpse into the artists’ journeys and experiences. These interviews provide a deeper connection with the musicians, revealing the stories behind their songs and their paths to success.
As Bobby Carter puts it, “This Black Music Month, we’re giving the ladies their flowers!” This celebration not only honors these artists but also shines a light on the rich and varied contributions of Black women to the world of music.
The Tiny Desk concert series has a massive following, with over 16 million monthly viewers and 45 million views per month. It’s clear that the world is ready to celebrate Black Music Month with NPR and these extraordinary women. You can catch all the performances at on their website and join the conversation on social media.