Bio
Sounds of Blackness is a vocal and instrumental ensemble from Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Minnesota, founded in 1969 by Russell Knighton at Macalester College as “Macalester College Black Voices.” The group renamed themselves Sounds of Blackness in 1971 when Gary Hines took over as musical director — a role he holds to this day as the only remaining original member. The ensemble currently consists of 15 singers and 10 musicians performing across gospel, R&B, soul, and jazz. Their national breakthrough came through their relationship with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, who produced their debut album The Evolution of Gospel (1991) on Perspective Records. The album’s lead single Optimistic became their signature song — described by some as a “new Black national anthem” for its message of perseverance and hope.
Works
Studio Albums
| Title | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Evolution of Gospel | 1991 | Produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis; features Optimistic |
| The Night Before Christmas (A Musical Fantasy) | 1992 | Produced by Jam & Lewis |
| Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum | 1994 | Produced by Jam & Lewis |
| Time for Healing | 1997 | First self-produced album |
| Reconciliation | 1999 | Self-produced |
| Self-titled | 2011 | Malaco Records |
Notable Singles
- Optimistic (1991) — Top 3 US Billboard Hot R&B Singles
- “I Believe”
- “I’m Going All the Way”
- “Everything Is Gonna Be Alright”
- “Hold On (Change Is Coming)“