DeKalb County is rolling out the red carpet for its own musical maestro, CeeLo Green, this Tuesday. The celebration is set to commend Green, born Thomas Calloway, for his significant role within the music industry, especially during African American Music Appreciation Month. According to a statement obtained by FOX5 Atlanta, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and the Board of Commissioners will present the awards during their Regular Business Meeting.
CeeLo Green, perhaps best known for his monster hits "Crazy" and "Forget You," will receive DeKalb County’s highest civilian distinction, the W.W. King Bridge Builder Award. And it doesn't stop there, the artist will also be honored with the District 1 African American Music Appreciation Month Trailblazer Award, a nod to his considerable imprint on the entertainment globe. "CeeLo has profoundly impacted the music industry with his soulful voice and unmatched showmanship, but it is his business acumen that truly sets him apart – he is a true 'entertainment brand,'" Commissioner Robert Patrick stated in a release cited by WSB-TV.
The affair also ties in with the national observance of African American Music Appreciation Month. Initially designated as Black Music Month by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, the month-long spotlight underlines the undeniable age, and the heritage forged by African American artists across numerous music genres. A live stream of the honors can be accessed via DCTV Channel 23 for those eager to tune in.
Inspiration is a recurring theme when discussing CeeLo's relationship with DeKalb County. The Grammy Award-winning artist isn't just a sensation on stage, his influence clearly reverberates, through the community – inspiring legions of youth and budding musicians. CeeLo's contribution to music following his start with Goodie Mob, and his seamless transition to a solo career evidently still strikes a chord within the local populace, and his accomplishments are poised to be fittingly recognized this Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. For those unable to attend in-person, a digital front-row seat awaits with a click through the DCTV live stream linked in the county's announcement.
