Birthday Celebrations — June 4

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on June 4 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Anthony Braxton

Born June 4, 1945

Title: Composer, saxophonist, clarinetist, flautist, educator, and NEA Jazz Master

Anthony Braxton is an experimental composer and multi-instrumentalist whose work stretches across jazz, classical, improvisational, and avant-garde music. His career represents Black innovation in sound, especially in spaces where music challenges traditional structure.

Keith David

Born June 4, 1956

Title: Actor, singer, and voice actor

Keith David is an actor known for his deep voice, strong presence, and long career across film, television, theater, animation, and video games. His work shows how character actors can become part of the sound and memory of American culture.

Al B. Sure!

Born June 4, 1968

Title: R&B singer, songwriter, producer, and radio host

Al B. Sure! became one of the recognizable voices of late-1980s R&B and new jack swing. His smooth vocal style and romantic sound helped define a moment when R&B was shifting into a more modern, youth-driven era.

John P. Kee

Born June 4, 1962

Title: Gospel singer, songwriter, pastor, and choir leader

John P. Kee is a gospel artist and pastor known for blending traditional gospel energy with contemporary gospel sound. His work with choirs and solo recordings helped shape modern gospel music for church audiences and beyond.