Joy Keys chats with Sweet Honey In The Rock

Founded by Bernice Johnson Reagon in 1973 at the D.C. Black Repertory Theater Company, Sweet Honey In The Rock®, internationally renowned a cappella ensemble, has been a vital and innovative presence in the music culture of Washington, D.C., and in communities of conscience around the world.

From Psalm 81:16 comes the promise to a people of being fed by honey out of the rock. Honey – an ancient substance, sweet and nurturing. Rock – an elemental strength, enduring the winds of time. The metaphor of sweet honey in the rock captures completely these African American women whose repertoire is steeped in the sacred music of the Black church, the clarion calls of the civil rights movement, and songs of the struggle for justice everywhere.

Following up on their 2008 Grammy-nominated release, Experience…101, Sweet Honey returned to the studio to record Go In Grace, original music composed for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Together these two artistic treasures of the African American experience performed this once-in-a-lifetime collaboration throughout the United States during the 2008-09 season.

Equally thrilling was the invitation received from First Lady Michelle Obama in February of 2009 to perform at the White House in celebration of African-American History Month. As the Associated Press reported, “foot-stomping music filled the East Room…” as Sweet Honey sang for 6 and 7 graders from around the city.

Sweet Honey In The Rock is Ysaye Maria Barnwell, Nitanju Bolade Casel, Aisha Kahlil, Carol Maillard, Louise Robinson, and Shirley Childress Saxton. http://www.sweethoney.com/