Adam Blackstone, a renowned multi-instrumentalist, producer, and musical director, has once again claimed the spotlight. Fresh off his first Grammy win and a long history of Super Bowl performances, Blackstone, alongside Fantasia Barrino-Taylor, has won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Duo, Group, or Collaboration (Traditional) for their rendition of the timeless classic “Summertime.”
The song, a jazz masterpiece from the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess, features Blackstone playing the upright bass while Fantasia lends her powerful vocals. Their collaboration has brought renewed life to the song, marking a significant milestone in both artists’ careers.
Adam Blackstone: A Musical Visionary
Hailing from Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in Willingboro, Blackstone has become one of the most sought-after musical directors in the industry. At 42, he has already worked with global superstars such as Rihanna, Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Eminem, and Justin Timberlake. His career is halfway to the coveted EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) status.
Blackstone’s Grammy win this year for his work on the album for the Broadway musical Hell’s Kitchen was a defining moment in his career. This achievement follows his 2022 Emmy win for Outstanding Music Direction, earned for the unforgettable hip-hop Super Bowl halftime show featuring Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent.
Blackstone’s Super Bowl Legacy
Adam Blackstone’s association with the Super Bowl spans several years. Most recently, he produced and arranged Ledisi’s rendition of the Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” at the 2025 Super Bowl. In past years, he produced Reba McEntire’s national anthem performance and served as the musical director for halftime shows by Rihanna (2023), Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020), and Justin Timberlake (2018).
Fantasia’s Full-Circle Moment with “Summertime”
Fantasia, known for her electrifying performance of “Summertime” during her victorious run on American Idol in 2004, has a deep connection to the song. Her 2024 collaboration with Blackstone marked the 20th anniversary of her unforgettable rendition that won the hearts of millions.
In an Instagram post, Fantasia shared how much the song means to her. “I’ll never forget how this song changed my life on American Idol. When nobody was voting for me, this song allowed people to see who I really am. 20 years later, I got a chance to reimagine this classic with my bro @adamblackstone!”
Fantasia’s post-Idol career has been nothing short of remarkable. From topping Billboard charts to starring in Broadway musicals like The Color Purple (2007) and the 2023 film adaptation, she continues to shine as an R&B powerhouse.
“Hell’s Kitchen” and Blackstone’s Impact
Blackstone’s Grammy-winning work on the Broadway musical Hell’s Kitchen further solidified his status as a musical innovator. The show, inspired by Alicia Keys’ life and music, also featured New Jersey’s Maleah Joi Moon, who won a Tony Award for her performance. Blackstone, who served as the show’s music supervisor, was also nominated for a Tony for Best Orchestrations.
A Celebrated Career
Over the years, Blackstone has been at the helm of musical direction for major events like the Oscars, BET Awards, Tonys, and Soul Train Awards. His 2022 debut album, Legacy, which features artists like Leslie Odom Jr., Kirk Franklin, Queen Latifah, and Jill Scott, earned him an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Album and a nomination for Best New Artist.
The Legacy of “Summertime”
“Summertime,” composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward, is a song with a rich history. Its latest rendition by Blackstone and Fantasia honors its jazz roots while bringing a fresh perspective to the classic.
This win is yet another testament to Adam Blackstone’s exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. From Grammy wins to Super Bowl performances and now an NAACP Image Award, Blackstone continues to make waves in the music industry. His collaboration with Fantasia is a beautiful reminder of how music can transcend time and bring people together.
As Blackstone’s career soars to new heights, fans and critics alike eagerly await what’s next for this extraordinary artist.
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