February 6, 2025

This post was written prior to the successful performance of MSM Black Student Union’s Celebrating Black History Month concert (Feb 6, 2025).

The MSM Black Student Union (BSU) presents the annual Celebrating Black History Month concert, this year titled A Tribute to Generations of Black Musical Excellence, on Thursday, FEB 6, at 7:30PM in Neidorff-Karpati Hall.

We spoke with BSU student leaders Ja’hlil Pembleton (BM ’25), Adaiah Ogletree (BM ’26), Laila Leguillow (BM ’27), and Moira O’Connor (BM ’26) about the upcoming performance and their experience in the Black Student Union.

MEET THE LEADERS OF THE BSU

Tell us about this year’s BSU Concert.

Ja’hlil: When I was developing the concept for the concert, Beyoncé released Cowboy Carter. The album felt like a storytelling journey, intentionally crafted to celebrate the contributions of Black artists and musical genres often overlooked and deliberately erased from mainstream narratives. African Americans played a foundational role in creating genres like country and rock, yet we’re rarely credited for these accomplishments. While our influence on jazz is widely recognized, it’s often oversimplified, and our impact on classical music is frequently overlooked. This realization motivated me to approach the concert with the same intentionality: to honor and reclaim the artistry and influence of African Americans in music while confronting the narratives that continue to diminish our legacy.

I was also reminded of James Baldwin’s speech “A Talk to Teachers,” which I first read in eighth grade. In it, Baldwin writes, “The paradox of education is precisely this—that as one begins to become conscious one begins to examine the society in which he is being educated.” That idea has stayed with me over the years and deeply resonates with the mission of this concert. This performance isn’t just about celebrating Black artistry; it’s about using music as a tool to challenge perspectives and provoke critical thinking

The concert itself tells the story of a child’s journey through American music, guided by family members who share their own musical memories. As the child uncovers the legacy of Black artists across genres like classical, jazz, R&B, and gospel, the performance highlights how deeply African American artistry has shaped the broader musical landscape. Ultimately, our goal is to educate, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Black music.

What else would like audiences to know about the concert?

Ja’hlil: This year’s concert offers attendees the chance to connect with history and celebrate the lasting legacy of African American music. Featuring students from nearly every major, the concert also welcomes special guest MSM alumna, opera soprano Laquita Mitchell (MM ’01, PS ’02) and MSM Jazz Arts alumnus and faculty member, saxophonist Jaleel Shaw (MM ’02).

Adaiah: Like a museum, this concert is not only educational but fun!

Laila: People should come to this concert because for the first time our concert is following an original script and storyline, written by our President Ja’hlil Pembleton, that all of the BSU board collaborated on to make it ready for the stage.

Describe the BSU Concert in three words:

Ja’hlil: Celebratory, inspiring, and thought-provoking

Adaiah: Authentic, Diverse, and Black

Moira: Joyful, Spiritual, and Uplifting

What do you love about being a part of the BSU?

Ja’hlil: Being a part of the BSU has given me the freedom to show up as my true self. It’s a space where I feel both understood and supported, where I can connect with others who share similar experiences, and where my voice and presence truly matter.

Adaiah: I love being apart of the BSU at MSM because it is a safe space for Black creatives to exist without the expectation to perform. It is a constant reminder that I am not alone in my experience as a Black musician.

Moira: It is a gift to have such a supportive community of people to share experiences, celebrate our culture, and connect with.

How do you personally connect with the BSU?

Ja’hlil: As the president of the Black Student Union, I’m honored to continue its legacy and help foster a sense of community among Black students at MSM. It’s so important for us to have a space where we can connect, share our stories, and support one another beyond the classroom. For me, the BSU is a space of empowerment, creativity, and belonging.

What is your most memorable moment since joining the BSU?

Ja’hlil: Being a part of the BSU over the past four years has truly made my experience at MSM so much more fulfilling. Watching the organization grow and become a more visible presence on campus has been beautiful to witness. There have been many memorable moments, but leading this project has definitely been the most impactful for me. Writing the script, collaborating with performers, and watching the story I envisioned come to life has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing this idea take shape and resonate with others has been truly special.

Adaiah: One of the most memorable moments that still makes me laugh to this day is at the BSU welcome picnic, it took us about 15 minutes to decide the rules in playing Uno. People were quitting before it even started, because “this ain’t the way I play it.” Someone even had the nerve to pull up the rules.

Moira: The Black History Month Concert is always a highlight of my year. Performing music that I love with people who support and understand me is just the best feeling.

What would you like to tell students who are interested in joining MSM’s BSU?

Ja’hlil: Please join us! By joining the BSU, you’re becoming part of a community that supports and celebrates our shared experiences. It’s a great chance to connect with other Black students, and we’ve got exciting events happening all year long.

Adaiah: Join, it’s fun!

Moira: BSU is a great way to meet new people and form long-lasting connections.

WATCH THE BLACK HISTORY
MONTH CONCERT VIDEO PREVIEW:

Read the MSM Community Perspectives with Alumna Sharon Daley-Johnson (BM ’88, MM ’89): Celebrating Black History Month