Black culture has always had an influence on music, ranging from instruments in African culture, like the banjo, to the way we speak. There are many African Americans who have shaped the history of music and made record-breaking achievements. These include Artists such as Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix and Louis Armstrong. Their passion toward the craftsmanship of music created the foundation we still revere today. Without the influence of Back culture, we would not have the music we do today.
One of the most decorated and influential artists of all time, Michael Jackson. He is said to be the “King of Pop.” His dance moves, unique fashion, artistic choices, individuality, distinct voices and extravagant music videos set him apart from everyone else in the industry. His originality led him to be a phenomenon the world had never seen. Not only was his talent unmatched, but he was a major component in opening the door for other artists of color on the main stage such as Jay-z, Justin Bieber, and Lady Gaga. No one can live up to the legacy of Michael Jackson. Jackson holds the record of longest span of number ones for a male act in the Billboard Hot 100 with a span of 25 years and seven months. He also has 13 number-one singles on Billboard’s Hot 100, making him the male artist with most No. 1 Hits in the Hot 100 era.
Black culture still has a major influence on music today. Artists like J. Cole, Drake, CHIKA and Nicki Minaj operate the industry now by being an example that there is a space for African American in the music industry.. Credit is also due for earlier road pavers such as Snoop Dogg, Tupac Sukar and Lauryn Hill. Not only do artists like these have an impact on the music world, but also on society. Artists of color affect the way we dress, speak, act and think of ourselves.
Artists of color can also affect major events in society. For example, music was a vital part of the Black Lives Matter movement. The movement happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, so the Black community could not rally together in the typical ways such as family gatherings or the basketball court. We were scared to go outside, drive a car, be in our own house like Breonna Taylor, or even breathe like George Floyd. We had nowhere to turn but music. Music was how we communicated. For example, when NWA released its debut album, “Straight Outta Compton,” in 1988, it featured a song titled “F— tha Police.” This prompted many kids of color to feel heard, and liberated sparking a police “ Songs like “ I Can’t Breathe” by H.E.R and “I cry” by Usher helped us get through such a hard time for Black people in America. This was one of the first moments I realized just how powerful music is in society; how an art form can connect communities around the world. Beyond just the world, the music industry has had quite an impact on me as well. I have gained confidence and really found who I am because of music.
Overall, Black culture will always have an impact on music. It will always be important for Black voices to be heard in every single art form. We tend to find confidence and comfort in music when the person behind it shares the same values and color as us.
