PRESS RELEASE:

Contact: Sandra Butler-Truesdale: Revsandra2001@yahoo.com or Sandra@emmamaegallery.com 202-246-6300 The Emma Mae Gallery and the DC Arts District presents The History of Rhythm & Blues, The Gregory Gaskins Experience, and Jimi Smooth & Hit Time Exhibit, Panel Discussion & Performance, Thursday, June 30, 2011 from 6:30-9:30p at the Charles Sumner Museum at 1201 17th Street NW, Washington, DC (Farragut Square Station) Rev. Sandra Butler-Truesdale, owner & curator of the Emma Mae Gallery will host the History of Rhythm & Blues, The Gregory Gaskins Experience & Jimi Smooth & Hit Time Exhibit, Panel Discussion & Performance. WHAT: The History of Rhythm & Blues, The Gregory Gaskins Experience & Jimi Smooth & Hit Time Exhibit, Panel Discusssion & Performance WHEN: Thursday, June 30, 2011, 6:30p 9:30p WHERE: Charles Sumner Museum Exhibit 1st floor, Performance & Panel Discussion in the "Great Hall". WHO: Gregory L. Gaskins, lead guitarist, composer & conductor, a native Washingtonian who began playing guitar at the age of 8 and played with local group. He began his professional career at the age 15 being chosen by the late Billy Stewart to accompany him at the Historic Howard Theatre. He as also played, recorded, and acted as conductor for the Manhattans; the Sweet Inspirations was the Lead in Conductor of the Elvis Presley Orchestra.

Jimi Smooth has had a successful and diverse career as a vocalist, musicologist, and Rhythm & Blues Historian for more than 50 years. Currently, he is lead vocalist with his Hit Time Band. His musical performance is known all over the east coast. Panel Participants: Jimi Smooth, Rosa Bullock, Douglas Graham, Gregory Gaskins