Folks who lived in the NYC area during the 80’s & 90’s remember Hal Jackson’s Sunday Classics heard on then Black-owned WBLS-FM. Many of us looked forward to hearing classic R&B and soul music each week. After Jackson—a broadcast pioneer—passed away in 2012, Debi (known as Debi B), Hal’s co-host and wife, continued hosting the program along with Clay Berry until March of 2015.
She continues to play a crucial role in the ongoing success of Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens International. Founded in the early 70s, the program showcased the skills and talents of young women. Debi’s other philanthropic efforts include awarding scholarships through the Youth Development Foundation (YDF), which she and Hal founded to support the educational aspirations of young women.
On Thursday, November 9, 2023, Debi B gathered a roster of old friends—Howard Hewett (solo artist and lead singer of Shalamar), Jeff Redd (“You Called And Told Me”), the Ladies of Skyy (“Call Me”) and Meli’sa Morgan (“Do Me Baby”)—for a night of soulful, old school R&B to raise funds for the YDF. The tribute band, The Bells 2.0, opened the show. Fans of classic R&B swayed and danced and remembered when…It was a wonderful night for everyone.
Thankful for the performers, the fans, and the funds raised, Debi remarked, “Through the Youth Development Foundation, we are continuing the legacy of Hal Jackson by awarding scholarships to deserving young women from diverse backgrounds with an emphasis on continuing their education in college.” — TPC Staff
