‘Charlotte Sound’: Music veterans talk about place, story, church

From left: Nigel Malone, Charlotte native, audio engineer, back from years of training and experience in Atlanta; Toni Tupponce, Forum regular and lead vocalist and program director for A Sign of The Times of the Carolinas; Brian “Mr Incognito” Robinson, longtime program director at WPEG (Power 98) & WBAV (V 101.9); and Harvey Cummings, Charlotte native saxophonist, pianist, songwriter, and producer.

Feb. 24, 2026

Among the questions

What makes the Charlotte sound unique?
How do you connect with youth to continue the music tradition?
Black music has been diluted. What factors have contributed?
Might there be political messages in the music?
What makes for a hit?
Do you need a new organization to help you get together to share stories and learn from one another?
What impact has corp9rate ownership of labels and radio outlets had?

After the Q&A, during which all of the presenters expressed interest in coaching young musicians, facilitator Winston Robinson asked for contact information.

Harvey Cummings
Website; Instagram; E-mail.

Nigel Malone
Website; YouTube; Instagram; E-mail.

Brian Robinson
Instagram; E-mail.

Toni Tupponce
Website; Instagram; E-mail.

• • • •

Research and writing on subjects discussed at today’s Forum may be published in this column. Authors are unpaid and must agree to include their name. The material is subject to editing for clarity and civility. Submit text or attachments by e-mail.

‘Charlotte Sound’: Music veterans talk about place, story, church

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