Top to bottom: Vincent Pelote, Institute of Jazz Studies, Jamara Wakefield, In the Wake Media, Jennifer Souder and Yvonne Clayton, Asbury Park African American Music Project (Photo Credit: Samuel Markey Photography), Melissa Ziobro, The Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music

New Jersey has produced and been the home of some of the world’s most impactful artists and music. Artists, community members, and historians unite to preserve this history in this state and regionally. This panel will explore the exciting work New Jersey individuals and institutions are doing to share the history and present day of New Jersey’s House, Funk, Jazz, Rock and R&B music and venues.

Join the New Jersey Historical Commission’s African American History program and panelists for “Follow Me”: Preserving New Jersey’s Black Music History and Heritage on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 6:30PM. This is a free, virtual event however, registration is required.