The Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission is celebrating Women’s History Month by saluting the career achievements of nine women who have advanced Memphis music.

The honorees will be featured at the Commission’s 2nd Annual Emissaries of Memphis Music Power Luncheon to be held March 26 at the Holiday Inn, 3700 Central Ave., beginning at noon. Proceeds from ticket sales will be used to fund the Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission’s healthcare plan for Memphis musicians. The healthcare plan, offered through the Church Health Center, is free for Memphis musicians who meet eligibility requirements.

This year’s Emissaries are: international blues singer Toni Green, former STAX Records production chief and Black Radio Hall of Fame inductee Novella Smith, award-winning opera singer Kallen Esperian, music philanthropist Honey Scheidt, country music singer Nancy Apple, Grammy-nominated song writer Mary Unobsky, producer of Downtown Alive for the Center City Commission Leslie Gower, and creators of the W.C. Handy Heritage Awards Elaine Lee-Turner and Joan Lee-Nelson.  

Johnnie Walker, executive director of the Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission, said the contributions of women to the Memphis music scene are often overlooked.

“The luncheon is a way for us to salute the career achievements of women who have quietly, but steadily, made insurmountable contributions to Memphis music. The collective experiences of these women span several decades, and we are proud to honor them,” said Walker.

The event will also assist the Commission in accomplishing its mission of providing much-needed healthcare, Walker said.

“If the musicians stop, the music stops. Everyone can help us keep the Memphis sound alive by attending the luncheon.”

Marybeth Conley, WREG-TV 3 Live at 9 co-host will host the event. Pamela J. Marshall, chief of staff for Interim Shelby County Mayor Joe Ford, is the keynote speaker. Marshall is the first African American and the first woman to hold the position as chief of staff for Shelby County Government.

For more information, including about tickets, call 901-576-6857 or visit www.memphismusic.org.