The Soulful Sounds of Derbytown Premiering on KET 7/15/2025
Kentucky to the World is proud to serve as the official media partner for The Soulful Sounds of Derbytown—a powerful tribute to Louisville’s legendary African American musicians and entertainers, now airing on KET.
This inspiring production features unforgettable performances by icons such as The Jerry Tolson Quartet, Marjorie Marshall, Tanita Gaines, Lamont Butler and the Pearls, Jason Clayborn, and many more, blending live music, dance, and theater into one unforgettable celebration.
Our partnership with this project represents the heart of Kentucky to the World’s mission: to elevate the cultural and intellectual reputation of Kentucky on a global stage. We do this by sharing the stories of remarkable Kentuckians—past and present—who use their creativity, intellect, and passion to shape the world.
From TV specials to live events and educational programs, we build platforms that honor Kentucky’s rich artistic legacy while investing in the narrative of who we are and who we’re becoming. The Soulful Sounds of Derbytown is one of those stories—a joyful, resonant reminder that Kentucky’s contributions to music, culture, and history are both timeless and transformational.
We’re honored to help bring this project to a wider audience and to support the people and places that keep Kentucky’s soul alive.
Watch the broadcast on KET and experience the music, movement, and magic of The Soulful Sounds of Derbytown.
Airing dates:
KETKY
7/15 4:30 AM | 11:00 AM | 5:00 PM
7/19 12:30 AM
7/29 4:30 AM | 11:00 AM | 5:00 PM
KET1
8/24 2:00 PM
About the Program:
The concert event celebrates the significant contributions of Louisville's African American musicians and entertainers through music, dance and theater - with the release of an accompanying book.
Performances include The Jerry Tolson Quartet, Marjorie Marshall, Mark "Big Poppa" Stampley, Artie Wells and the Walnut Street Blues Band, Tyrone Cotton, Tanita Gaines, Sheryl Rouse, Lamont Butler and the Pearls, Christopher "Chris Flow" Forehand, Imani Dance Company, Jerry Newby, Christina Booker, Archie Dale and the Tones of Joy, Jason Clayborn and In God's Presence.
The Ken Clay production was recorded live by Media Partner Kentucky to the World at the Kentucky Center for the Arts on March 2, 2024.
MEDIA PARTNER DETAILS:
Video Producer
Thomas Wavid Johns (KTW Board Member & Director of Strategic Planning and Documentary Film)
Editor
Thomas Wavid Johns
Post Production
Neon Bites
