There is a profound depth nestled in the vibrations of Jazz and Gospel that other genres envy. These two forms are not merely soundscapes but impactful teachers, imparting unique lessons shaped by the histories and struggles of the people they represent. Both have transcended their origins; evolving from expressions of pain, joy, faith, and resilience into powerful narratives of human experience, and ultimately the bedrock of contemporary Black music’s continuous innovation.
Jazz has borne witness to its people - namely Black folks - denied rights, displaced, wounded, massacred, and subjugated. These histories have left generations of Black families and individuals bereft of autonomy, as they painstakingly claw their way back to a semblance of humanity. Consequently, Jazz has deeply rooted scars and knows its layers of debris way too well. It asks the difficult questions that few are brave enough to pose: Did you see, they lynched a Black man today? The question lingers in the air, as broken hearts search for restitution. Jazz does not shy away from the heft of this trauma. My heart is split in two , can you help mend it? Yet, in its defiant spirit, it also carries an essence of celebration and joy: How will I savor these moments of pure bliss? And in its deepest moments of reflection, Jazz ponders: When I no longer exist, will my efforts have been in vain? The genre is an ongoing dialogue between past and present, where each note, each chord, each improvisation becomes an answer to questions that reflect and shape human existence. Jazz is not simply music; it is a sonic witness to history.
Gospel, too, has emerged from a history steeped in hardship. As a musical response to the struggles of Black people—particularly within the context of slavery, segregation, and racial inequality—Gospel offers a message of spiritual healing and hope. While Jazz often focuses on the raw, visceral realities of life’s most difficult moments, Gospel provides a counterpoint—a sense of divine strength and transcendence. Both genres speak of struggle, but while Jazz wrestles with the complexities of human pain, Gospel lifts the spirit toward redemption, reflecting a faith that endures, despite hardship.
The lessons predicated and upheld in the Gospel music tradition are grounded in the belief that, through faith, one can overcome even the darkest of days. It is a spiritual call to action, urging individuals to find strength in the midst of despair and to recognize the grace that persists, even through suffering. Whether far away from or close to home, searching, lost, or somewhere in the mix, Gospel opens its doors assuring you that you are not alone. In the heart of Baltimore, Maryland, affectionately known as Charm City, Diamon Fisher not only embodies the spirit of Jazz and Gospel in her daily life and work, she also offers solace and assurance to her community.
Diamon’s multifaceted role as a mother, program director, cultural producer, and advocate for the arts reflects the very essence of Baltimore's cultural heartbeat. She stands as a beacon of advocacy. Her work, particularly her cherished Juneteenth celebrations, an event that upholds the birthright of freedom and emancipation for Black Americans, resonates with the vitality of Jazz, the devotional nature of Gospel, and the Blackness of Charm City.
The thickness of a dark, clear Baltimore night feels as if it could be cut with a knife. This city’s rich, complex history is braided with love, hurt, and grit, especially for its Black residents. At the turn of the 19th century, Maryland was home to the largest free Black population in the country. In Baltimore, free Black people outnumbered enslaved Black people by more than eight to one before the Civil War. Today, Baltimore remains one of the Blackest cities in the U.S., a testament to its enduring legacy.
It was on one of those dense, quiet nights, where Diamon found herself restless, contemplating the significance of her upcoming 6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration. She envisioned an event that serves as a powerful expression of Black pride and honors her ancestors. It must have a name that carries the weight of this responsibility—a name that reflects the trichotomy of past, present, and future. The word “Exalted” emerged. A name that seamlessly embodies the fervor laden in Gospel, the self-determination of the Black power movement and stardust.
Defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “placed at a high or powerful level; held in high regard; noble; and, in a state of extreme happiness,” “Exalted,” in the context of astrology, also refers to a planet's position of highest influence or strength in a specific zodiac sign, representing its most positive and powerful expression. “Exalted” was born in the night but will inevitably illuminate all who came before Diamon, are here with her, and will carry the torch beyond her. A sacred duty. A love supreme.
With a clear vision in mind, Diamon assembles a team of dedicated individuals—Marz Lovejoy, frequent Collaborator and Co-producer; Santana Alvarado, Operations Director; Amira Green, Creative Director and Cheyanne Zadia, Choir Director. Together, they work meticulously to bring Diamon’s vision to life, ensuring that every detail— music, food, crafted cocktails, sepia-toned photo booths, logistics, security—reflect the essence of this powerful and necessary celebration.
As Juneteenth draws near, excitement builds. “Exalted” promises to be more than just a concert or gathering. It is an experience, a fusion of art, culture, and history. The evening will feature headliner and renowned Jazz legend Bilal, whose performance will elevate the event to unforgettable heights. The afterparty will extend the energy of the night, a space where joy and connection flourish, binding the community together in celebration. These celebrations, guided by Diamon’s leadership, are profound expressions of collective memory—drawing directly from the traditions we hold in our DNA. Like the music that shapes the city’s identity, Fisher’s advocacy seeks to mend the wounds while creating space for future generations to thrive.
“Exalted” will be a testament to the power of music, culture, and community. As the celebration unfolds, guests will experience the opulence of the venue and the profound remembrance that fills the air. This is not solely an event—it is the culmination of Diamon’s commitment to answer the call that the elders before her placed. It is a celebration of survival and beauty, a moment to grieve those we’ve lost, and a time to be present.
Did you feel how they loved on us at "Exalted?" Without a doubt, the answer will be, Yes! Yes, we did.
We are proud to be supporting "Exalted" and we will be providing magazines for a reading nook at the event. Please chill, read and enjoy!
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