Two new stamps planned in 2019 for the U.S. Postal Service’s Black Heritage and Music Icons series honor R&B singer Marvin Gaye and tap dancer Gregory Hines, two of the most influential performers of their generations.
The commemorative stamp design for Gaye, who died at age 45 in 1984, was inspired by historic photographs, the stamp pane resembling a vintage 45 rpm record sleeve. One side of the pane includes the stamps, brief text about Gaye’s legacy and the image of a sliver of a record peeking out the top of the sleeve.
Another portrait of Gaye, also inspired by historic photographs, appears on the reverse along with the Music Icons series logo.
Art director Derry Noyes designed the Gaye stamp pane with original art by Kadir Nelson.
Hines’ stamp, designed by Derry Noyes, is the 42nd in the postal system Black Heritage Series.
Hines, a versatile performer who danced, acted and sang on Broadway, TV and in movies, died in 2003 at age 57.
“The miniature works of art illustrated in the 2019 stamp program offer something for everyone’s interest about American history and culture,” said U.S. Postal Service Stamp Services Executive Director Mary-Anne Pennert. “From legendary poet Walt Whitman to the entertainment genius of Gregory Hines to the majestic beauty of our Wild and Scenic Rivers, this program is diverse and wide ranging and tells America’s story on stamps.”