The music industry has been touched, and forever changed, by some of the most incredible African-American performers, sing-songwriters, and musicians. And while we always strive to honor and showcase talented people from across the human spectrum, February is Black History Month, so it’s only fitting that this month we focus our attention on the amazing Black artists that have transformed the very course of music!
With influences on genres like jazz, soul, rock, gospel, R&B, and pop, virtually no genre of modern music has gone untouched by African-American culture and talent. That’s why this week we’re taking a look at twelve of the most renowned and influential African American musicians who have changed the very face of music.
Prince
With a career that began in the 1980s, American singer-songwriter Prince was an incredibly talented musician who used elements of multiple genres, including rock, blues, and jazz in his music. And in turn, influenced each of those genres as a result. Known for his incredible stage presence and iconic fashion, later in his career Prince became known for collaborating with other popular artists, like Alicia Keys and Norah Jones.
Bob Marley
As a musician that touched the hearts of millions around the world through his reggae, Bob Marley’s influence on the world of music is undeniable and nearly unsurpassed. As a member of the Rastafarian movement and religion, he would infuse his lyrics with spirituality from his faith and an inspirational message meant to uplift the audience.
Marvin Gaye
An absolute legend in the genre of soul, American singer-songwriter Marvin Gaye has earned his international renowned with his incredible words and voice. As a highly acclaimed artist, Gaye became one of the fundamental contributors to the world-famous Motown Records of Detroit, Michigan. Gaye’s influence on the music industry persists as his power and inspirational words continue to impact and inform a huge array of contemporary artists.
Stevie Wonder
With world-famous hits like “Superstition,” it’s no wonder Stevie Wonder is popular around the globe. Another alumna of Motown Records, Wonder has won awards not only for his creativity and talent but also for his work with civil rights. Between his incredible music and philanthropic work, Wonder has inspired generations of contemporary artists and remains a powerhouse in the music industry today.
Ray Charles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rEsVp5tiDQ
Ray Charles was a pioneer in the Soul genre, and fused R&B, Gospel, and County music, earning him a place among the legends of music. Blind, but with an envious talent, Charles has become famous for churning out hit singles, like “Baby Let Me Hold Your Hand,” “Hit the Road Jack,” “Kissa Me Baby,” and “Mess Around.” With nicknames like “The Father of Soul,” and “The Genius,” Charles’s remarkable talent continues to inspire us all.
Louis Armstrong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWzrABouyeE
A multi-talented, all-round performer, Louis Armstrong’s influence on jazz, and music in general have made him famous. Associated with groups like “His Hot Five,” “His Hot Seven,” and “The All Stars,” Armstrong could make any song popular with his unique style. His talent even broke barriers when in 1930 he was featured in a Hollywood film titled Ex-Flame. Probably most well-known for “What a Wonderful Life,” Louis Armstrong will always be remembered as one of the greats.
Whitney Houston
With a booming voice and unique style, American singer and actress Whitney Houston took the 1980s by storm. Houston started out singing in her local church and was deeply inspired by Gospel music. Known best for hits like “I Will Always Love You,” she would go on to collaborate with other icons, such as Mariah Carey on the single “When You Believe.” Despite a rocky personal life and a tragic end that came too early, Whitney Houston’s contributions to modern music are undeniable and will prove lasting.
Aretha Franklin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtBbyglq37E
Called “The Queen of Soul” – and rightfully so – Aretha Franklin is known for her energy and genre-crossing talent, making her impact on music unsurpassed. Franklin grew up during the Civil Rights Movement and sang in her local church, where her father was pastor. Her career took off in the late 1960s with hits like “Respect” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” Now, with so many hits it’s hard to choose just a few to reference, Franklin’s presence is nothing short of global in the music industry, and she has influenced artists from every genre.
Nat King Cole
As a prolific Jazz pianist and performer, Nat King Cole’s remarkable talent helped him lead a huge, influential career. He launched his promising career in the 1950s, when he performed such classics as “Unforgettable,” and worked with other African-American icons like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. King Cole would go on to form the “King Cole Trio” and would become famous for singles like the iconic “Christmas Song.”
James Brown
An iconic figure if ever there was one, James “The Godfather of Soul” Brown’s contribution to the world of music is undeniable. As a fuser of the Funk and R&B genres, Brown’s career took off throughout the 1950s, when he toured tirelessly, building his fan base. With an unmatched stage presence, Brown popularized dances of the era and became known for such hits as “I Feel Good,” and “Get Up Offa That Thing.”
Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald, known as “Lady Ella” and the “First Lady of Song,” has become an incredibly significant contributor to the genre of Jazz, and music in general. As a singer with remarkable talent, Fitzgerald was discovered by, and worked with Chick Webb and his band, and rose to fame during the 1930s. Her unsurpassed voice can be recognized in singles like “Dream a Little Dream of Me,” “Every Time We Say Goodbye,” and “Summertime.”
Tina Turner
With a hugely popular singing and acting career throughout the 1980s, and beyond, Tina Turner first grabbed solo success with her album Private Dancer. Her solo career launched her to superstardom with massive hits, as well as the soundtracks to the films “Goldeneye” and “He Lives in You.”
In spite of suffering abuse at the hands of her husband and partner Ike Turner, Tina has risen above, and her career has had an incredible influence on contemporary artists.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of these greats? Start your musical journey today with The Music Studio! Check out all our virtual, interactive programs, and start your musical journey now!