R h y t h m  a n d  B l u e s
P r e s e r v a t i o n  S o c i e t y

Perry Thompson

What motivated you to start Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society in Atlantic City, New Jersey?

The motivation to launch the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society was inspired by me wanting to honor those who contributed to the culture of Black Music. It's not about how many records an artist has sold, or how many awards they've won. If you contributed to the culture of Black Music, the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society salutes you. Also, I want to educate and teach the youth on the history of African American Music. I've been so honored to be recognized by the Atlantic City Council, NJ Governor Phil Murphy, and NJ Assemblyman Don Guardian for my commitment in preserving the culture of Black music with my organization.

Why is preserving Black music and culture important to you?

Preserving the culture of Black Music is very important to me because every genre of music has been influenced by African Americans. It's more important today than ever before. The impact of Black music culture is not only in America, but all over the world.

"Preserving the culture of Black Music is very important to me because every genre of music has been influenced by African Americans. It's more important today than ever before. The impact of Black music culture is not only in America, but all over the world".

Are there any services that your non-profit offers?

The services that the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society offers are:
College Lecture Tours
Discussion Panels
Live Concerts
Masterclass Sessions
Musician Advocacy
Library Curation
Festival Productions
African American Music Studies

Have you faced any challenges starting up your non-profit?

I definitely faced challenges starting my non-profit organization. The negative energy from people questioning why I would want to start an organization on Black Music, the sacrifice I made to financially launch it, and the sacrifices I'm still making to keep it going. I have no regrets. I love what I do. I'm proud of the work the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society has done and will continue to do.

What are some words of advice you can give to entrepreneurs who want to start a nonprofit?

My advice would be to don't allow anyone to deter you from your goals. Starting a nonprofit organization isn't easy or cheap. You have to be sure that this is what you really want to do. Also, have a person or people who sees your vision as well. My VP/COO Dr. Sonja Elise Freeman, aka Queen Diva, is a remarkable woman. She does our digital marketing, and administrative work as well. I truly appreciate her being there for me.

"My advice would be to don't allow anyone to deter you from your goals. Starting a nonprofit organization isn't easy or cheap. You have to be sure that this is what you really want to do".

Who are some of your favorite R&B musical artists?

Isaac Hayes, James Brown, Phyllis Hyman, Miki Howard, George Benson, Billie Holiday, Krs One, and Kool Moe Dee.

Our biggest need is donations. We want to continue to present our programs in-person and virtually to preserve the culture of Black Music and in order to do that, we need donations.  You can make a donation to the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society by:

Cashapp:$RBPSOC18
PayPal.me/RBPS18
Venmo @RBPSOC

Or you can send check or money order to:
P.O. Box 7401
Atlantic City, NJ 08404

You are also a journalist. Can you tell us more about how you got started with journalism?

My VP/COO, Dr. Sonja Elise Freeman aka Queen Diva, suggested that I start writing on Black Music Culture. I've written articles for Soulmusic.com, and Soul-patrol.com. I'm working on a book about Black Music Culture.

Outside of your business what are some other hobbies that you enjoy?

Of course, I enjoy listening to music, watching documentaries, bowling, and playing pool.

Follow at:

Instagram: @perrythompsonrbpsoc and @acrbpsoc
Twitter: @RBPSOC
Facebook: @RBPSOC
TikTok: @RBPSOC