June is Black Music Month and as a special treat, "The Sidebar by NYABJ" is releasing not one, but two extended episodes featuring those who have made their impact on Black music. 

To start, The Sidebar's SONJA D. GRACY has an intensive interview with music management veteran MATHEW KNOWLES (1:02). While many know him as the father of acclaimed singers Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Solange Knowles and his work managing Destiny's Child, Gracy goes in-depth with Knowles' other as impactful milestones, which include being the founder of Music World Entertainment amongst other music and entertainment business ventures and as a visiting professor teaching courses on the entertainment industry at a number of colleges and universities.

In addition, The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN hosts a candid conversation with the multi-talented, platinum-selling artist SYLEENA JOHNSON (50:20). In an interview that will no doubt leave you inspired, Johnson opens up about her evolution as a singer, songwriter, TV host, wellness advocate, and film producer, and provides insight about owning your artistry, navigating industry challenges, and staying grounded in your purpose. She also shares encouraging words for rising artists and gives insider tips on longevity in the business.

Remember that if you liked what you heard, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss Part II, which will be released on July 3rd!

---------
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Black Music Month Part I Feat. Mathew Knowles and Syleena Johnson

The Sidebar by NYABJ is a show about the world of media, through the lens of Black media-makers. 

Each episode will feature honest conversations with journalists, content creators, advocates, trailblazers  and new voices alike - talking about what it really takes to keep our communities informed and engaged. 

Subscribe now to join us as we look behind the figurative curtain for insights - straight from the source. 

The Sidebar is a production of the New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ), the Greater New York chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the world’s largest organization for journalists of color. 

For more information, visit www.nyabj.org.