Forty years ago, the Broadway musical Dreamgirls premiered on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre. The original cast starred Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine and Jennifer Holliday.

#OTD Saxophonist and smooth jazz pioneer Grover Washington, Jr. passed away at the age of 56. Today we celebrate his life and legacy.

#OTD The Colored Methodist Episcopal Church was formed by a group of ministers in Jackson, TN.

Educator and civil rights activist Septima Clark, sometimes referred to as the "Mother of the Movement," passed away at the age of 89.

#OTD Recording artist Dinah Washington passed away at the young age of 39.

Boxer Archie Moore, hall of fame light heavyweight champion who held the title for nine years, was born in Benoit, Mississippi.

#OTD The world lost a comedic genius. Comedy legend Richard Pryor died at the age of 65.

#OTD Hall of fame defensive end Deacon Jones was born in Eatonville, Florida. Comedian Rodney Perry celebrates the 2x NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

#OTD Legendary entertainer Sammy Davis, Jr. was born in New York City. Retired NFL wide receiver Brad Smith narrates.

#OTD Azie Taylor Morton, the 36th Treasurer of the United States and the first and only African American to hold the position, passed away at the age of 67. Actress Caryn Ward Ross narrates.