An American singer who shocked the world
In Japan, when people say “Western music,” I think they usually mean American music.
In fact, from a commercial standpoint, the American music scene is the largest in the world.
This time, I’ll be introducing American singers.
Rather than simply featuring artists who scored massive hits, I’ve selected those who had a major impact on the music scene.
As a result, you’ll also get to learn about the history of American music.
I’ve selected tracks from a variety of genres—soul, jazz, R&B, hip-hop, hard rock, and more—so please take your time and enjoy.
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American singers who shocked the world (1–10)
Isn’t She LovelyStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, the legendary artist who helped fuel the neo-soul boom of the 1970s.
He’s a singer who is extraordinarily well-known in Japan as well.
He has left us with countless classics, but his greatest appeal is surely his free, unbounded musicality.
Besides Stevie Wonder, there are about three other famous artists who supported neo-soul, but even among them, Stevie’s musical approach was uniquely distinctive.
In fact, you can tell a song is his even when someone else is singing it.
His ever-evolving approach—changing styles while continuing to grow—sent shockwaves through the American music scene from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Sexual HealingMarvin Gaye
In today’s Black music scene, genres like R&B, slow jams, and hip-hop are mainstream.
Among them, R&B and slow jams are said to have their roots in soul music, and Marvin Gaye—who sings “Sexual Healing”—is known as someone who helped pave the way for the completion of R&B.
He was a great singer who supported the New Soul movement of the 1970s and continues to influence many artists today.
Be sure to check him out.
Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A
When discussing the American music scene, the presence of hip-hop is indispensable.
And when discussing hip-hop, the presence of N.W.A is indispensable.
Known as a legendary group in West Coast hip-hop—aka the “Wesside”—they laid the groundwork for modern gangsta rap.
Given the era, younger heads accustomed to today’s trap might find it a bit jarring, but the fiery vibes will hit you right in the chest.
Definitely give them a listen.
Fly Me To The MoonNat King Cole
Nat King Cole is one of the most famous singers in American standard jazz.
While there are many other great artists in the jazz scene, he had a unique strength: his vocal quality.
His voice was one of a kind throughout history—extremely low.
It wasn’t just low; it also had extraordinary warmth and depth, a sound that could enchant anyone who heard it.
In order to maintain that voice, he smoked excessively and ultimately passed away from lung cancer, but his soul—having chosen song at the cost of his life—continues to shine in the jazz world today.
Feeling GoodNina Simone
Nina Simone, the American-born singer famous as “the greatest singer the US let slip away.” She had a long career, and in her later years she moved around the world while being based mainly in France.
That’s why she’s known as “the greatest singer the US let slip away.” Her greatest appeal is, above all, her extraordinary expressive power.
Even among American singers, her depth is unmatched, and she has influenced many artists, including Lauryn Hill.