Up Next
Back to Show
American Black Journal
Rev. Robert Smith, Jr Full Interview
There’s no other voice like it in the world. None other than the queen of soul. Aretha Franklin got her gospel start at Detroit’s New Bethel Baptist church, which was pastored by her father, the reverend C.L. Franklin. Throughout her life, Aretha returned to the church many times to sing, attend services and host charitable events. Rev. Robert Smith, Jr. Became New Bethel’s senior pastor in 1984.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By
25:00
Celebrating The Wright Museum’s 60th anniversary and Teen HYPE’s play “Two Detroits.”
26:46
A documentary on former NAACP leader Walter White and a discussion about the NAACP’s legacy.
26:46
2025 Kresge Eminent Artist, Carl Craig’s “All Black Vinyl” series and journalist Al Allen.
26:46
A panel discussion on the Great Migration and the 9th annual African American Family Book Expo.
26:46
“Ruby - The Musical,” “Confederates” play and a performance from the Sphinx Competition.
26:46
A look at how Black churches helped Southerners who came North during the Great Migration.
26:46
The National Day of Racial Healing and the 2025 outlook for small businesses in Michigan.
26:46
MLK Day at The Wright Museum, National Day of Racial Healing and a James Baldwin exhibit.
26:46
2024 Year in Review: Current events, arts & culture and “The Black Church in Detroit.”
26:46
“The Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the challenges and opportunities of 2025
26:46
A special report on the restoration of Malcolm X’s former home in Inkster, Michigan.
25:00
Detroit Public Theatre’s 2024 Holiday Cabaret and Kwanzaa 2024 at The Wright Museum.