::THE SLICE REPORT WITH MONA AUSTIN

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION      Throughout American history, African American music has reflected our Nation's challenges and triumphs and has always enriched our Nation's culture.  During African American Music Appreciation Month, we pay tribute to the talented and inspiring African American artists who have given sound and voice to the full range of human emotions through the blues, jazz, gospel, rock and roll, rap, hip hop, and other genres.    Last year, we lost one of our Nation's most beloved African American musicians, songwriters, and singers, Aretha Franklin, the "Queen of Soul."  She was an 18-time Grammy Award winner and the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  During her extraordinary career, Franklin infused her talent and unmistakable style into gospel, rhythm and blues, rock and roll, jazz, and even opera.  Her songs are treasures of the American mus...