To celebrate Black Music Month in June, KIT KAT® and the New Orleans-based Trombone Shorty Foundation have joined five additional community-based nonprofits across the U.S. to support the next generation of musicians with programs focusing on youth development, leadership and education through music. 

Manufacturer of KIT KAT® candy, the Hershey Company’s effort to create connections, foster youth and critical communities worldwide and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion inspired KIT KAT’s partnerships for Black Music Month in 2022. 

Now in its second year, the KIT KAT® Black Music Month program began in Memphis. It has now expanded its reach to five additional cities at the epicenter of Black music, including Detroit, Los Angeles, New York City, Washington, D.C. and New Orleans.

KIT KAT® has created a six-episode mini-docuseries with up-and-coming artists in conversation with music industry veterans about the history and influence of Black music in their hometowns.

The short docuseries “Celebrating Traditional New Orleans Jazz and Brass Band Music,” featuring Jazz artists Jamison Ross and Branden Lewis, shows how KIT KAT® celebrates the music of New Orleans.

Trombone Shorty at Jazz Fest 2023. Photo by OffBeat/Kim Welsh.

“At the Trombone Shorty Foundation, we aim to make noise. To amplify and celebrate the voices that contribute to our communities, we’re honored to partner with KIT KAT® for Black Music Month,” said Bill Taylor, executive director of the Trombone Shorty Foundation. “From rhythm and blues to funk and rock and roll, this city is full of soul. With KIT KAT®, we’re shining a spotlight on the power of music and the endless possibilities it can open for our youth while celebrating the iconic and up-and-coming musicians born out of our community. Together, we are encouraging our communities to embrace and celebrate their talent.”

During June, the KIT KAT® Black Music Month program will also highlight Black music in these cities through limited-edition KIT KAT packages designed by Black illustrators Shae Anthony and Mia Saine.

For more information on the KIT KAT® Black Music Month program and their partnership with the Trombone Shorty Foundation, visit The Hershey Company’s website.