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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- [2026] Best Western R&B Love Songs and Romance Songs Compilation
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Great Black Music: Recommended Classics (51–60)
AnytimeBrian McKnight
Brian McKnight, an artist who was hugely active from the late 1980s through the 2000s, is known for his exceptionally advanced vocal technique.
In particular, his breathy whisper voice showcases remarkable singing prowess.
One of his signature songs is “Anytime.” Unlike typical R&B, this track is infused with adult contemporary elements, giving it a distinctive atmosphere.
If you enjoy skilled, authentic R&B, be sure to check it out.
teachmeMusiq Soulchild
Musiq Soulchild is an R&B singer who blends elements of jazz and soul, earning high praise from around the world.
While he’s often categorized as neo-soul because of his style, I personally see him as belonging to the R&B field, since he foregrounds R&B elements so strongly.
His track “teachme” is renowned as one of his signature songs, featuring a classic R&B foundation with a distinctive, lightly bouncing rhythm.
Sexual HealingMarvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye, one of the leading artists of neo soul, is an artist who has had a major influence on contemporary R&B.
Alongside his contemporaries Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder, he helped lay the foundations of modern Black music.
A song of his I highly recommend is “Sexual Healing.” It’s a work that directly expresses the sexual feelings one has toward a lover.
Expressions like this likely had a significant impact on today’s R&B.
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.
What’s Luv?Fat Joe feat. Ashanti
As his name suggests, Fat Joe has an imposing build.
He’s not only a rapper but also a music producer and an MC—a multi-talented figure.
This track, which features R&B songstress Ashanti, is one of his signature songs.