Ruth Artis Reagon, a native of Georgia, is a highly accomplished individual who has made significant contributions to the world of music and history. Born and raised in Georgia, Reagon attended Albany State University before transferring to Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, where she graduated in 1970. During her time at Spelman, she was an active member of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC),an organization dedicated to promoting social justice and civil rights.
Reagon's involvement with SNCC led to the founding of the "Freedom Singers," a music group composed of four vocalists who regularly performed at rallies and protests throughout the 1960s. This group played a crucial role in spreading messages of hope and unity during a tumultuous period in American history.
In addition to her work with the "Freedom Singers," Reagon went on to earn a Doctorate in History from Howard University in Washington, D.C. She also served as the curator of the Program in African American Culture at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, where she worked to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of African Americans.
Reagon's work has not gone unnoticed, and she has been recognized for her contributions to the field of music and history. In 1991, she was featured in a PBS documentary entitled "The Songs are Free," a film that explored the origins and evolution of African-American "Freedom songs." This documentary showcased Reagon's expertise and passion for music, as well as her commitment to using art as a tool for social change.
Today, Reagon continues to lecture, record, and travel extensively with her a cappella group, "Sweet Honey in the Rock." This group, which she founded, is known for its powerful lyrics and music, which often address social and political issues. Despite the challenges and obstacles that she has faced throughout her career, Reagon remains a dedicated and influential figure in the world of music and history.
