Honoring Legacies – Celebrating Black Music Month Through Photography

Jamie Hawkins pays tribute to his father, gospel legend Walter Hawkins, by recreating the iconic “I Feel Like Singing” album cover pose for Black Music Month.

June marks Black Music Month — a time to honor the rich legacy and global impact of Black artists across every genre, from gospel and jazz to soul, hip-hop, and R&B. First recognized in 1979 and later named African American Music Appreciation Month, this celebration shines a light on the rhythms, voices, and stories that have shaped culture for generations.

As a photographer, I know the power of a single image. While we remember artists like Prince, Aaliyah, and Whitney through their music, it’s the unforgettable photos that help carry their stories forward.

Photography is legacy — and for musicians, it’s a vital part of how they’re seen, remembered, and discovered.

This year, I’m spotlighting a few artists through portraiture — both recent and archival — who left a mark on music and hearts alike:

The late Joel Smith, legendary gospel and jazz bassist/drummer from the Bay Area, honored for his pioneering sound and legacy in modern worship music.

Joel Smith — a gifted drummer and bassist tied to the legendary Hawkins family, whose sound defined gospel’s evolution and continues to influence musicians today.

The late Thomas Clay, gospel singer and songwriter, remembered for his powerful voice, spiritual conviction, and impact on contemporary gospel music.

Thomas Clay — a prophetic singer and musician taken too soon, but whose soul-stirring voice still resonates.

Remembering Qui510 – Oakland hip-hop soul artist whose bold creativity and music continue to inspire during Black Music Month and beyond.

Qui510, also known as TriQui Di, was a beloved Bay Area hip-hop soul artist known for her bold voice, unapologetic creativity, and magnetic stage presence. As a singer, rapper, writer, and performer, she left a lasting impact on the independent music scene in Oakland and beyond.

Jamie Hawkins — pastor of Transforming Love Christian Center (https://www.transforminglovecc.org) and son of gospel legends Walter and Tramaine Hawkins, photographed in a pose that mirrors one of his father’s iconic album covers, honoring both legacy and lineage.

These images aren’t just portraits — they’re tributes to sound, spirit, and story.

Artists: Let’s Tell Your Story

Whether you’re building a brand, preparing for a release, or simply preserving your legacy — visuals matter. Album covers, social media, press kits… a great photo speaks before your music even plays.

To celebrate Black Music Month, MooD-ology Photography is offering special session rates for music artists, musicians, producers, and creatives throughout June.

Let’s capture your sound, your brand, your legacy — one frame at a time.

📍 Book now at www.moodologyphotography.com

📧 Or DM @moodologist on Instagram to get started