History has definitely seen the impact Black Musicians have had on the creation of art and music. February is Black History Month, making this a great time to celebrate history’s most influential black musicians.
Here are 3 of the most influential black artists:
Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996)
Ella Fitzgerald, the “First Lady of Song,” is best known for her awe-inspiring jazz singing. Fitzgerald was the first black woman to win a Grammy Award for her vocal performances in 1990. Some of her most popular songs include “These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You),” and “A-Tisket, A-Tasket,” which are both songs still sung and played in modern day. Her sweet singing tone and wide range allowed her to inspire other black musicians all over the world. Winning a total of 13 Grammy awards, and selling over 40 million albums, Ella Fitzgerald’s ageless voice will forever have a major impact on musical history.
Louis Armstrong (1901-1971)
Arguably the most influential trumpet player of all time, Louis Armstrong’s stellar trumpet performances have stood the test of time. His fame began when he joined King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band. While he was a member of this band, Armstrong became popular through his second cornet lines, duet passages, and solos. Some of his most famous solos at this time included, “Chimes Blues,” and “Tears.” Later parting from Oliver’s band, Armstrong had a successful solo career. He recorded multiple masterpieces such as “Wild Man Blues,” and “Potato Head Blues.” Armstrong’s music and fame marked the beginning of respect for black musicians, as he was one of the first black performers to gain respect from a largely white-based audience.
Ray Charles (1930-2004)
Ray Charles, or the “Father of Soul,” is the famous pioneer of soul music. Some of his most groundbreaking music pieces include “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Unchain my Heart.” Born in Albany, Georgia, Charles had become blind by the age of 7 due to glaucoma . Nevertheless, Ray quickly emerged himself in the world of music. Throughout his lifetime, Charles learned how to play the piano, sax, organ, trumpet, and clarinet. In his musical career, many of Ray Charles’ songs, such as “I Got a Woman,” reached the top of R&B charts. He later won multiple Grammy Awards due to his outstanding music. Ray Charles’ creation of soul music has impacted musical history, inspiring everyone across the world with his outstanding musical productions.
Conclusion:
Although these are only 3 of the many awe-inspiring black musicians, these artists have influenced millions of people all over the world, and continue to represent the outstanding achievements in the black community!
