Ohio University communications professor J.W. Smith will soon bring his talents to Ohio University Southern to communicate “Life and Love Through Music.”

The event, part of the Ohio University Southern Diversity Lecture Series, is set to take place Thursday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. in the OUS Rotunda in Ironton.

Smith has worked as a music therapist and radio announcer, but has dedicated his life to teaching at the university level since 1983. He teaches a variety of communications courses at the Athens campus.

“I always say I teach by day and sing by night,” Smith said. “It keeps me balanced. Coming down to Ironton is a great time to do something for Black History Month, a good time to be with my friends at that campus and a good way to balance my semester.”

Smith has been singing since he was 10 years old. He has released four gospel music albums and in 2012 released his first secular album entitled “24 Hours with Dr. FeelGood.”

He said his musical style is easy on the ear and a combination of gospel and R&B.

“I’m going to do a little bit of everything,” Smith said. “Some gospel stuff, some stuff from my newly released album. I’m going to play a little piano, maybe do some Ray Charles, Billy Preston — whatever comes to my mind at the time.”

Smith said the show will be approximately an hour and a half with plenty of variety.

Adam Fry, interim coordinator for disability services, said it is great thing to have someone of Smith’s caliber to give their time to the community.

“He’s a highly educated, highly uplifting man and we are lucky to have him come here,” Fry said. “We don’t get enough of this in the area and I am thankful he is taking the time to come down here to speak and perform.”

Smith said he enjoys traveling to OU’s extended campuses because he is always well received.