Honorees
Learn more about our Honorees as they continue building their legacies.
"THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME" (GOAT): OMAR CUNNINGHAM
Omar Cunningham has found his "swag" as an award-winning and highly sought after artist, songwriter and producer. His smooth, sensual, and strong vocals have gained him national recognition, with countless music bloggers referring to him as "The R. Kelly of the South". His backgrounds are silky and his lyrics are real.
As an independent Soul & R&B artist, some of his biggest hits have become labeled "Southern Soul Classics", including: "Baby, Don't Leave", "Check to Check", "Hell At The House", "Beauty Shop", and "I'm In Love With A Married Woman." In 2020, he released his latest album,"Certified", which includes the soulful, head-bobbing tracks, "I Feel Like Making", "Call Me Daddy", and "On My Way to Memphis".
Omar is also a voting member of The Recording Academy (Grammy Awards).
"OMAR THE HITMAKER": PRODUCER & SONGWRITER
Some may consider him as being the man with the golden pen, with colleagues commonly referring to him as "Omar The Hitmaker". Omar has been quietly behind the scenes writing songs for many of today's top artists. Omar was responsible for Billboard charting hits, "Put It On Me " by West Love and the hit single, "We Both Grown" by Willie Clayton who was joined by on the track by Grammy award winning artist, Dave Hollister. This song reached #23 on Billboard's Adult R & B charts. Omar also is the mastermind producer and is featured on the Southern Soul Juke Joint Sensation, "The Boots Song" with Big Yayo. He also wrote the title track for Mel Waiter's 2010 album, "I Ain't Gone Do It". Omar was also tapped to write songs for music powerhouses, Lenny Williams and Shirley Brown's, "I Don't Wanna Leave". He also played a major role in boosting Karen Wolfe's career by writing her two award winning hits titled "Man Enough" and "Stuttering". Omar also wrote the #1 soul song, as reported by the Soul and Blues Report, for Vick Allen titled "If He Can Beat Me Rocking".
More Songs Written by Omar Cunningham
Shirley Brown “I Don’t Wanna Leave”
Mel Waiters “I Ain’t Gone Do It” Title track of his last album
Lacee “Find Somebody”
Lacee “No Broke Man”
Lacee “Who’s Is It?”
Lacee “Away From Him”
Lacee “Thick Girl Love”
Vick Allen “If He Can Beat Me Rockin”
Vick Allen “I’m Hooked” co-written with Tonya Youngblood
Vick Allen “Soul Music”
Vick Allen “My Baby’s Phone”
Vick Allen “True To Me”
Vick Allen “Have A Good Time”
Vick Allen “I’ll Take Your Word For It”
Willie Clayton “We Both Grown”feat. Dave Hollister of the group Blackstreet
Reached Billboard R&B charts and Billboard R&B and Hip Hop Charts, 2010
Willie Clayton “Shake Your Money Maker”
Willie Clayton “Special”
Willie Clayton “Good Woman”
Willie Clayton “Wonderful”
Archie Love of the Barkays “Before A Judge”
Karen Wolfe “Ain’t No Right Way To Do Wrong”
Karen Wolfe “Man Enough”
Karen Wolfe “Stuttering”
Karen Wolfe “Shake A Little Something” feat. Denise La’Salle last record she recorded
Karen Wolfe “B.O.B.”
Karen Wolfe “Girls Night Out”
Karen Wolfe “That Chick Ain’t Me”
Karen Wolfe “Don’t Try Me”
Chris Ivy “Bout To Lose A Dollar”
Chirs Ivy “Old School Game”
Lenny Williams “Good Girl”
Dave Mack “You Got That Southern Soul”
Dave Mack “She’s Gone”
Big Yayo “Bedroom Rodeo”
Big Yayo “Boots On Song”
Big Yayo “I’m Your Man”
Big Yayo “A Little Freaky”
Big Yayo “Grown Man Business”
Big Yayo “Trail Ride Crush”
CoCo “We Gone Do It Again”
CoCo ”Love Can’t Pay My Bills”
Chick Rodgers “Messed Up”
Chick Rodgers "How Long"
Jinda “I’m Tired”
Jinda “Sweeping It Under The Rug”
Summer Wolfe “Imma Let Him Hit It”
Mark Holloway “What You Got”
Mark Holloway “Big Leg Woman”
Mark Holloway “Old Flame”
Stevie J. “Another Jody Song”
Stevie J “Biscuits and Gravy”
Augusta Walker “Talk To Your Old Lady”
Nellie “Tiger” Travis “My Baby” feat. O.B. Buchana
West Love “Put It On Me”
Lady Q “Ride It Like A Rodeo”
Lady Q “Spend My Whole Life”
Lady Q “My Man”
Ms. Robbie “I Been Thinking Bout Cheating”
Sweet Nay “Get Closer”
O.B. Buchana “Hideaway Motel”
O.B. Buchana “Rowdy, Rowdy”
O.B. Buchana “I’m Jody”
O.B. Buchana “I Only Cheat on the Weekend”
King Fred “Put You To Sleep”
Highway Heavy “Inside Man”
Donyale Renee “Waiting It Out”
Da Don Washington “You All On Me”
Stefunie Luckett “I Can’t Touch You”
Stefunie Luckett “Good, Good”
Tony T “My 2 Step”
Veronica Ra’elle “Tear It Up”
Rhomey Rhone “Mr. Head bad”
Mz. Brown Suga "Cheat Right"
Tina Brown "Sneak A Piece"
Tina Brown “You Don’t Think”
Calvin Taylor "Nose Wide Open"
Cadillac Man "Strokin' Kind"
Big Pokey "Here Come Pokey"
Sweet Angel "Do Wrong"
Krishunda Echols “I’m Having Your Baby”
Dolla Bill “Want Ads”
Dolla Bill "Ain't No Fun"
Deborah Murray “I’ll Wait”
Vickie Baker “ Cheatin’ Tonight”
Vickie Baker "Love Him Or Leave Him"
Vickie Baker "He Ain't Hittin It Right"
Charles Wilson “Shoo Doo Wop”
Charles Wilson "Baby Sitter"
J’Cenae “Real, Real Woman”
J'Cenae "How Can You"
INDUSTRY COLLABORATIONS
The native of Gadsden, Alabama established his career with the group Daybreakk and went on to work with the likes of Larry Blackmon and Cameo prior to releasing his solo debut, Hell at the House (2003), which reached number 53 on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop chart. Cunningham has steadily built a solid and unwavering solo discography that appeals to grown fans of traditionally rooted R&B. The extensive list of artists he's collaborated with include: Karen Wolfe, Vick Allen, Lacee, CoCo, Dave Mack, Big Yayo, Wendell B., Calvin Richardson, Mel Waiters, Bigg Robb, Sir Charles Jones, and Lenny Williams to name a few. Omar also performed on the finale night of the 2004 Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival with Alicia Keys, Cassandra Wilson and Michael McDonald. Other celebrity performers include India Arie, Nancy Wilson, Beres Hammond, Bobby Womack, Monty Alexander, and Kenny Rogers. With the construction of his new studio, Kylee Tunz Entertainment, Omar is sure to churn out more hits in the future. As you can see, Omar has been busy and there is more to come!
BIG YAYO..."mr big ride" himself
The Big Yayo Experience hails from Jackson, Mississippi, famously known as The City with Soul. Big Yayo has become a driving force in the revival of blues and soul, transitioning from producer to artist with a string of hits defined by his unique style—blending old-school funk, blues, soul, and a dash of ’80s baby hip-hop drum programming. His signature sound keeps dance floors packed with songs like Cowgirl, The Boots On Song, Bedroom Rodeo, I’m Your Man, Cake, No Getting Over Me, Get It, Rock Me Baby, Mr. Bartender, and many more.
Born and raised in the small town of Goodman, Mississippi, a young Christopher Mabry sharpened his musical talents by seizing every opportunity in his community. Guided by his high school band director Robert Johnson and encouraged by his mother, Big Yayo embarked on a musical journey that has taken him nationwide, performing for packed audiences and serving as an ambassador for southern soul culture.
Always on the move, Big Yayo tours relentlessly, produces fresh music, introduces new artists to the southern soul sound, and reinvents the style for established performers with his signature soul swing production. For bookings or to join his mailing list for free goodies, call 601-624-1534, follow him on social media, and catch The Big Yayo Experience when it comes to your city!
The Velvet Voice Of Soul Vick Allen
Born in Jackson, Mississippi; a city known as a breeding ground for some of the hottest Blues and Gospel talents in the history of music. At the age 15 years old, Vick Allen produced and recorded his first CD; the CD was recorded in Jackson, Mississippi and served its purpose of getting his music and his name circulating in the Jackson music community. After graduating from high school, Vick started singing professionally with the popular gospel group “The Canton Spirituals." Vick later ventured out on his own as a soul singer sharing the stage with such artists as Bobby “Blue” Bland, The O’Jays, Buddy Miles, and Willie Clayton. Vick Allen is a well-known singer, producer, performer, and musician in both the Gospel, R&B and Blues genres.
Vick Allen has produced records for Grammy-nominated artists such as Blues legend Bobby Rush, and Gospel Greats, The Canton Spirituals. Vick has also produced records for other well-known Blues artists such as Tyrone Davis, Willie Clayton, Peggy Scott-Adams, Mel Waiters, Shirley Brown, Toni Green, Omar Cunningham, and many others for his production company, Test-Mic Productions.
As a performer, Vick has made a major impact on the Soul/Blues genre in his career. Known for his electrifying performances, classic recordings and his vocal prowess, he is poised to prove to the world he truly is “The Velvet Voice of Soul”.
Tay Cheesy
Tay Cheesy is a powerhouse performer, visionary creator, and self-made professional who carved her own lane in the entertainment industry. Born in the heart of Mississippi, she grew up immersed in the rich cultural landscapes of Nashville, Baton Rouge, Memphis, and Jackson—each city leaving its imprint on her signature style: a fearless fusion of raw talent, infectious energy, and undeniable presence.
Determined to build her career on her own terms, Tay bypassed traditional industry gatekeepers, proving that passion, discipline, and relentless dedication can outshine any credential. While many relied on agencies or elite arts programs, Tay mastered her craft through hands-on experience, resilience, and an unshakable belief in her vision.
Her impact speaks for itself.
Tay Cheesy has shared the stage with iconic artists including Willie Clayton, Uncle Luke, West Love, Cupid, and Grammy Award-winner Jon Batiste. Her artistry continues to reach new heights as the creator of viral records “Backwood Slide” and “Pop Them Fans,” now streaming on Apple Music and resonating with audiences worldwide.
In recognition of her cultural influence and leadership, Tay was awarded the Key to the City of Grenada and honored by both the AMG Awards and the Hip Hop Culture Awards. She further expanded her platform as the host of the 106 & Dance Line Dance Countdown TV Show, spotlighting talent and elevating dance culture on a national stage.
More than just a dancer, Tay Cheesy—born Taylor Akharume—is a multi-faceted entertainer, choreographer, recording artist, creative director, and motivational speaker. Her performances are not just movement; they are full-body expressions of joy, culture, empowerment, and purpose.
With new music on the way and a full transition into her artist era in 2026, Tay Cheesy is just getting started. Her journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of betting on yourself—and the future holds even greater moments for Ms. Make it look easy.
Jimmie “J‑Jam” Herbert
A Legacy That Supported Southern Soul Music
Jimmie Herbert, known professionally as J‑Jam, was raised in a strong Christian family in Canton, Mississippi. Guided by his father’s love for real music, Jam began DJing at just 17 years old at Roberts Social Inn in the “Harlem of Canton.” His talent quickly made him one of the most recognized young DJs in Mississippi.
By 19, Jam co‑produced a major outdoor Blues concert in Morton, MS, featuring legends like Bobby Rush, Rue Davis, Frank‑O‑Johnson, and Pat Brown. That same year, he was introduced to Malaco Records executives Tommy Couch Sr. and Wolf Stephenson, who trusted him to break new music in clubs before it hit radio. Other major labels soon followed.
At 21, Jam became known across the South for blending Blues, R&B, Rap, and Southern Soul under one roof. He earned his radio license and worked at WMGO 1150 AM, later joining WMPR 90.1 FM, where his 100,000‑watt broadcast reached listeners nationwide and overseas.
Jam expanded into professional sound engineering, working alongside Bigg Johnny and later providing sound for major casinos, festivals, and multicultural events. His career connected him personally with icons such as Tyrone Davis, Marvin Sease, Johnnie Taylor, B.B. King, Denise LaSalle, Sir Charles Jones, T.K. Soul, and many more.
He also appeared in the film “Vanquish” with DJ Show, Morgan Freeman, and Bill Luckett, further showcasing his versatility.
From clubs to radio to major stages, J‑Jam’s influence shaped generations of music lovers and artists. His passion, skill, and cultural impact continue to live on through every life he touched.
Ted Holman
A Life of Music, Service, and Devotion
The moment Ted Holman saw The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1963, he knew the guitar would become part of his life. Drawn to its sound—and the excitement it brought—he bought his first guitar on credit from Michelle’s Record Shop in downtown Vicksburg. The strings sat high, the neck was rough, and he had no idea how to fix it, but he learned to play anyway. That determination would shape the rest of his life.
After serving his country in Vietnam and later as a Drill Sergeant at Fort Jackson, Ted returned home to begin civilian life. One job was never enough to support his family, so he continued playing music to make ends meet. In those early years, he struggled with alcohol, using it to quiet the memories of war. But after nine years of marriage, he made the decision to sober up and rebuild his life.
Ted credits God—and the unwavering love of his wife—for helping him find his way back. She stood by him through the hardest seasons, and together they raised three sons: Ted Jr., Chris, and Ed. For sixty years, she was his partner, his strength, and the love of his life.
Music remained a constant. Ted eventually landed a job with the Waterview Casino in Vicksburg, MS as the booking manager. He has given opportunities to a lot of Musicians and Singers to be heard. He also kept playing—not for escape, but as a way to provide for his family and to honor the gift he’d been given. He built a good life, free from alcohol and marijuana, grounded in faith, responsibility, and love.
After six decades of marriage, Ted lost his beloved wife, a loss that reshaped his world. What keeps him going is the devotion of his three sons, who remind him every day that his life, his sacrifices, and his love have mattered deeply.
Today, Ted continues to heal, one day at a time. And as he has done for a lifetime, he picks up his guitar, heads out to play another gig, and keeps the music alive.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues Commission
For more than three decades the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues Commission, Inc. has stood as a cornerstone of cultural preservation and community celebration along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Founded in 1991,The Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues & Heritage was established by Winston Smith and a core group of blues supporters from the African American community this dedicated nonprofit organization was created by a group of passionate blues enthusiasts who wanted to promote, preserve, and celebrate the deep musical heritage of the Gulf Coast blues tradition.
Mission & Purpose
The Commission’s mission is to educate, promote, and preserve Mississippi’s native cultural and musical art form — the blues — while enhancing the quality of life in the Gulf Coast community by keeping music alive and vibrant for all. Through festivals, concerts, community events, educational programming, and charitable initiatives, the organization champions the blues as a living art form that connects generations and cultures.
As a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues Commission is registered annually with the Mississippi Secretary of State and relies on donations, sponsorships, and membership support to fuel its work.
Signature Events & Festival Legacy
The Commission is best known for producing the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues & Heritage Festival, one of the longest-running blues festivals in the Deep South. Founded in 1991, the festival originally took place at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi and later at the Jackson County Fairgrounds in Pascagoula. Over its history, it has drawn audiences from across the Southeast and beyond and showcased a wide array of music — from blues and soul to zydeco and gospel — featuring both nationally renowned artists and beloved local performers.
Headliners have included blues and soul legends such as Bobby Rush, Theodis Ealey, Ms. Jody, Tucka, Omar Cummingham, Lacee, Jeter Jones, Louisiana zydeco bands, and many church choirs and gospel groups. The list of leading blues and soul entertainers has included Johnnie Taylor, the Average White Band, Koko Taylor, Millie Jackson, Clarence Carter, Mel Waiters, Bobby Bland, Latimore, Sir Charles Jones, Marvin Sease and Mississippians Bobby Rush, Denise LaSalle, Willie Clayton and more, alongside regional favorites and emerging talents.
Awards & Recognition
In 2016, in recognition of its cultural significance and enduring contribution to American music, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues & Heritage Festival was honored with a Mississippi Blues Trail marker — one of the few on the Gulf Coast — by the Mississippi Blues Commission. This designation acknowledges the festival’s role in celebrating and perpetuating the blues tradition in its birthplace state.
The festival and its organizers have also hosted special ceremonies honoring local blues figures and contributors, including community musicians and longtime supporters of the art form.
Community Impact & Charitable Work
Beyond music performances, the Commission is committed to community investment. It supports local youth organizations, scholarship programs, and charitable causes that align with its mission — giving special consideration to programs that enrich the lives of young people and help ensure the blues tradition thrives in future generations.
Membership & Support Opportunities
Membership in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues Commission is open to individuals who share a passion for blues culture:
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Associate Members contribute annually and help support the mission through financial support and volunteer efforts (no voting rights). $50 annually
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Sustaining Members make a lifetime commitment and are granted voting rights and a deeper role in the organization’s direction and activities. $500 one time payment
These memberships fund core operations, event production, community outreach, and educational programming year-round.
Yolanda Singleton
Yolanda M. “SoBlessed” Singleton is a proud native of Jackson, Mississippi, whose life and work reflect purpose-driven leadership, service, and excellence. She pursued pre-med studies at Tougaloo College, earned an Associate's Degree in Nursing from Hinds Community College, completed coursework in real estate and business at Jackson State University, and graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
A devoted mother, loving grandmother, dedicated daughter, faithful sister, cherished aunt, and loyal friend, Yolanda is also a highly respected serial entrepreneur and visionary leader in the entertainment and community engagement sectors. She is the founder and owner of Xperience Jxn Entertainment, a full-service entertainment promotion, booking, production, consulting, and marketing agency created to elevate cultural experiences while showcasing world-class talent in Mississippi and throughout the Southeast.
Through Xperience Jxn Entertainment, Yolanda has built a reputation for producing high-quality, professionally executed events that are both accessible and unforgettable. Her work is rooted in the belief that people deserve premium entertainment at various price points—ensuring inclusivity without compromising excellence. As a premier entertainment promoter, she has produced some of the region’s largest concerts and hosted major tours featuring legendary artists such as Mary J. Blige, Patti LaBelle, Fantasia, Anthony Hamilton, Bell Biv DeVoe, Juvenile, and many others.
At the heart of her entertainment legacy is Soulabration, Xperience Jxn Entertainment’s signature concert series and cultural brand. Soulabration has evolved into a highly anticipated, multi-year entertainment experience that celebrates music, culture, and community while drawing audiences from across the Southeast. Known for its exceptional production value, iconic artists, and curated VIP experiences, Soulabration has become a cornerstone event, contributing to local tourism, economic impact, and cultural pride in Jackson and beyond.
In addition to her work in entertainment, Yolanda has served as a professional Registered Nurse for over 30 years. Her passion for advocacy extends to supporting victims of domestic abuse and human trafficking, promoting motorcycle safety, and mentoring female students labeled “at-risk” through the Jackson Public School District’s REAP (Re-engaging in Education for All to Progress) Program. She is also a real estate investor, licensed life insurance agent, travel agent, notary public, philanthropist, financial strategist, motivational speaker, and co-host of Cocktails & Conversations on 90.1 FM WMPR.
In 2025, Yolanda proudly served as Queen of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale, continuing the organization’s legacy of empowerment, service, and sisterhood.
Her leadership and impact have been recognized with numerous honors, including the 2017 Jackson Hometown Hero Award, the 2024 Jackson Music Awards Promoter of the Year, the 2025 Jackson Music Awards King Mose Award, the ZBT Women Who Rock Award, and the ZBT 2025 Female Promoter of the Year Award—distinctions that reflect her consistency, influence, and lasting contribution to the entertainment industry and the community.
Yolanda has served as National President of the Southern Soul Foundation, is a member of the Order of Eastern Star, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Rotary Club of Jackson. Yolanda is also active with Women for Progress, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women (Central Mississippi Chapter), and Anderson United Methodist Church.
While Yolanda has received numerous awards and recognitions, she considers her greatest achievement to be the positive impact she has had on the lives of countless children and families. She is widely known for her unwavering commitment to community service, generously donating her time and resources to organizations such as Friendship Connection, Gateway Rescue Mission, Salvation Army, Stewpot Community Center, Stop Hunger, the JPSD REAP Program, Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital, and AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Yolanda is the founder of By God’s Grace, a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding the hungry, supporting the homeless with essential supplies, and providing meals and cleaning resources to communities affected by natural disasters. Yolanda lives by the guiding principle:
“I’m not just my sister’s keeper; I am my Sister.”
SeraBee
Serabee is a powerhouse singer, songwriter, and multi‑instrumentalist whose soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling have made her a standout force in contemporary Blues, Soul, and Americana. Born in Kiln, Mississippi, 45 minutes east of New Orleans and raised in a deeply musical family, she developed her talent early, performing in church and touring with her parents’ gospel band before launching her own career.
A gifted vocalist with a signature Southern edge, Serabee blends Soul, Blues, Country, and Pop into a sound that is uniquely her own. She gained national attention as a finalist on NBC’s The Voice, where her dynamic range and emotional delivery captivated audiences across the country. She was selected as a member of country singer, Blake Shelton's team, assisted by award-winning singer, Reba McEntire
As a songwriter, Serabee has penned music for major artists, including the hit “Crazy Chick” recorded by Charlotte Church, which topped charts internationally as high as #2. In 2009, Serabee, signed with Universal Republic. Her first release with the label, entitled Serabee, was released in November 2009.Her own catalog includes fan favorites such as “Water Under the Bridge,” “Driving Me Stupid,” and “Ain’t Nobody’s Business.”
Serabee continues to tour nationally, bringing her powerful vocals, raw authenticity, and magnetic stage presence to festivals, concert halls, and music venues across the South and beyond. With her rich musical roots and undeniable artistry, she remains one of Mississippi’s most compelling and versatile voices.