Welcome to a nostalgic yet refreshing journey into the annals of black music history. We’ll be reminiscing about a momentous event that took place in 2017, when the Black Business Association (BBA), California’s oldest ethnic business organization, paid tribute to two African- industry giants during Black Music Month. Looking back from 2025, we can see the lasting impact of music executive and film producer Clarence Avant, and radio pioneer Lee Bailey. Their influence on the music industry is undeniable, and their rich legacies continue to inspire and shape the new generation of and executives. Join us as we revisit this remarkable event and celebrate the enduring contributions of these extraordinary individuals.
Clarence Avant: The Godfather of Black Music
Clarence Avant and Lee Bailey are two highly influential executives in the music and entertainment industries,” said BBA President and CEO Earl “Skip” Cooper II. “They each are single-handedly responsible for opening doors and making the way for today’s black music genres. It is the BBA’s honor to acknowledge and highlight their contributions to disseminating African culture the world.” Avant, known as the “Godfather of Black Music,” has cultivated an impressive career spanning six decades.
Clarence Avant’s Impact on the Music Industry
In addition to managing ” target=”_blank”> like Blues legend Little Willie John, jazz producer Creed Taylor and composer Lalo Schifrin, he launched two record companies, Sussex and Tabu, which cultivated the careers of Bill Withers, Dennis Coffey, and the S.O.S. Band. His business savvy and deal-making acumen also led him to finalize a record-setting deal to sell Stax Records to Gulf & Western Industries for $4.3 million in the late 1960s.
Lee Bailey: Pioneering Broadcaster
Broadcaster Lee Bailey launched Bailey Broadcasting Services in 1979, setting the stage for an entire genre of syndicated radio programming. He also founded Electronic Urban Report, EURweb.com, in 1996, which has since grown into a premier Black entertainment and headline news site, with more than two million unique visitors per week.
Lee Bailey’s Career Recognition
Over the course of his career, Bailey has interviewed music industry superstars ranging from Michael Jackson to Chaka Khan to Don Cornelius. His contributions to the industry have been recognized by Billboard magazine and The Carnation Company, among others.
Since 1980, the BBA has paid tribute to music industry legends. Among the past honorees are Berry Gordy Jr., Smokey Robinson, Jheryl Busby and Janet Jackson to name a few. For more information on BBA’s Salute to Black Music Awards Dinner in recognition of Black Music Month, visit www.BBALA.org
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