Throughout history, black music has influenced and inspired profound reform in the industry. Celebrating the contributions made by black artists acknowledges the suffering and sacrifice made in the name of freedom. In honor of Black History Month, here’s a look at the history of black music and its significance to society.
Music and dancing were an integral part of African culture. As enslaved peoples were taken to America, they brought with them their rhythm and beats. During this era, it was common to sing songs while working to pass the time or make labor more enjoyable. Enslaved peoples also brought about an early form of Gospel music, singing religious tunes at places of worship.
From there, the roots of black music began to ground themselves. New genres began to emerge, such as blues, jazz and soul, creating new ways for people to tell their stories and bring people together in times of adversity.
Junior Jason Minnie shares his insights, stating, “I think we can celebrate Black History Month by acknowledging the black artists that have made a big impact on the industry and how they have changed some genres for the better.”
Introducing new styles of music brought about ways to voice oppression in the black community. It became a tool to demand change and call out systemic racism. The melodic beats serve to be vessels of black history, opening the eyes of those who are oblivious to the hate experienced daily by the black community.
Over time, some of the most inspiring songs came to light, inspiring social change in a world of cruel racial injustice. In 1965, The Staple Singers released “Freedom Highway” in support of Martin Luther King Jr.’s calls for freedom and equality. Grammy-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar came out with his song “Alright,” which became the anthem of Black Lives Matter protests. Lamar deemed the simple phrase “We gon’ be alright” to be one of hope and inspiration. Childish Gambino even took home a Grammy for “Song of the Year” in 2019 for his record “This Is America,” which directly confronts racial violence and prejudice.
Minnie mentions some of his personal favorite artists who have impacted him, such as Frank Ocean, Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, Jimi Hendrix and Whitney Houston.
“I see these artists as important to me because they have changed my perspective on things that have influenced me to express my voice and views on things. They have given me a good example of what it means to be a black person in today’s world and how it is okay to be me and express who I am as a person,” he adds.
With the growth in representation as black music continues to dominate the industry, it’s important to remember the legacy that paved the way for generations to come.
