Sweet Honey in the Rock

Formed in 1973 by Bernice Johnson Reagon in Washington, D.C., Sweet Honey in the Rock is a groundbreaking all-female a cappella group known for their African-influenced repertoire. With a rotating lineup of four to six members, they use minimal percussion or none at all to accompany their vocal harmonies. The group's music addresses themes of social justice, women's issues, and personal development, blending elements of African choral, blues, gospel, and jazz. Over the years, they have released numerous albums, including their eponymous debut in 1976 and notable works like B'lieve I'll Run On in 1978 and All for Freedom in 1989. Sweet Honey in the Rock continued to perform and release music into the 2000s, collaborating with artists such as James Horner and the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater.

In addition to their extensive discography, Sweet Honey in the Rock have made significant cultural contributions, appearing on projects like the Grammy-winning Folkways tribute album in 1988. They have also performed at prestigious events like Nelson Mandela's national memorial service in 2013. The group's enduring legacy is marked by their commitment to celebrating African-American culture and advocating for social change through their music. With over 40 years of experience, Sweet Honey in the Rock remains a powerful and influential force in the music industry, as demonstrated by their more recent work like the socially conscious album #LoveInEvolution in 2016.