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 (61–70)
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?
Planet RockAfrika Bambaataa & Soul Sonic Force
This is a quintessential old-school classic—one could say this track helped massively open up the world of hip-hop! It’s a great song that I want not only hip-hop fans but all Black music fans to hear.
Afrika Bambaataa, a father-like figure who named the creative culture of Black people “hip-hop.” Released in 1982, it’s a historically important track said to have influenced all dance music.
The unique groove unleashed by the drum machine feels so good.
You Don’t Know My NameAlicia Keys
This is a song by Alicia Keys, brimming with her talent for piano and vocals.
The beautiful piano melody and Alicia’s soft, husky voice match the slow tempo perfectly.
In the music video, she plays a café waitress, looking cute in her uniform and hat.
The song poignantly expresses the feeling of falling in love with a man who doesn’t even know her name.
Best Thing I Never HadBeyoncé
It’s one of Beyoncé’s classic songs, showcasing her timeless beauty and vocal prowess then and now.
Her powerful voice soars over the grand ballad.
In the music video, Beyoncé fondly looks back on memories of a past lover, while her radiant smile stands out as she happily prepares for marriage with her current partner.