Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces
The great achievement of Black music is not only that it gave birth to genres like jazz, blues, gospel, and soul.
It has also been a wellspring of inspiration for legendary songs in the histories of rock and pop, and it is the most influential force on musical genres since the 20th century—an influence that continues unbroken into the 21st century and beyond.
To explore the roots of this magnificent Black music, this time we’re researching classic tracks mainly from the soul and R&B realm spanning the 1960s to the 1990s.
In the latter half, we also introduce more recent songs, so whether you love the latest hip-hop and R&B or aren’t very familiar with Black music, this is a must-check!
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Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces (71–80)
Bitch PleaseSnoop Dogg ft Nate dogg,Xzibit
Featuring Nate Dogg and Xzibit, this track is one of Snoop Dogg’s signature songs.
It’s a classic where Snoop’s rap shines over a light, rhythmic melody.
Eminem later released a follow-up on his album titled “Bitch Please II.”
DynamiteTaio Cruz
A hot, danceable track by British singer Taio Cruz.
It’s great for the club, perfect for a drive, and ideal for a house party with friends.
It’s a song that will hype up any scene, so why not add it to your playlist?
Waves (feat. 6LACK)Normani
Normani, who’s been making waves mainly in the U.S.
as an R&B-style female singer, delivers “Waves,” a collaboration with Atlanta-born rapper 6LACK, that captivates with its chilled-out vibe.
Though the arrangement is sparse, her vocal prowess carries the song effortlessly to the end—impressive as ever.
Be sure to watch it together with the music video, which evokes a cosmic feel!
Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces (81–90)
I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston
It’s no exaggeration to say that “I Will Always Love You” is one of the most famous pieces of Black music in the world.
It’s Whitney Houston’s signature song.
Each time she performs it, she changes her delivery so listeners never get bored.
You can really sense her dedication to her audience.
RedboneChildish Gambino
This track also has a strong funk vibe.
While Uptown Funk has a light, bouncy feel, this song is characterized by a sticky groove and an addictive vocal.
By the way, Childish Gambino—aka Donald Glover—who sings this track is also active as an actor, and apparently he’s set to appear in the next Star Wars film.
He’s a singer/actor to watch.
I Will SurviveGloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor’s classic song “I Will Survive.” Many of you may know it because it’s covered in Universal Studios Japan’s Universal Monsters Rock and Roll Show.
Pay attention to its passionate lyrics and melody.
On Bended KneeBoyz II Men
This is a classic song released in 1994 by Boyz II Men, who were also very popular in Japan.
Back then they were a four-member group, and the harmony between the low and high parts in the chorus is incredible—truly goosebump-inducing.
It’s a track where you’ll want to listen closely to the tear-jerking melody and the lyrics that plead for forgiveness.