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 (121–130)
Candy Shop ft. Olivia50 Cent
This is a track by 50 Cent, a rapper from the United States who has often made headlines for various troubles.
His low-toned rap gives the song a cool edge, and R&B singer Olivia’s sultry vocals add a seductive touch.
Although the title sounds pop, the contrast with the song’s mood and his rap works really well.
Beautiful ft. Colby O’Donis, Kardinal OffishallAkon
It’s a song by Akon, who has Senegalese and American backgrounds, in collaboration with Colby O’Donis and Kardinal Offishall.
The just-right tempo and the harmonies between Akon and Colby are captivating.
Kardinal’s rap also matches the melody perfectly.
Slow downBobby Valentino
A smash hit from the album “Bobby Valentino,” which reached No.
3 in the U.S.
in 2005.
Its dreamy melody and sweet, romantic vocals are captivating.
Sung by him, “Slow Down” became a classic that enchanted teens across America.
Bodak YellowCardi B
Cardi B originally drew attention by appearing on a TV reality show, but one of her own songs became a huge hit.
It’s said to be the first major hit by a female rapper as a lead artist—not as a featured guest—since 2014.
She’s definitely one to watch going forward.
Johnny B. GoodeChuck Berry
Chuck Berry is an artist known for his distinctive guitar riffs.
A titan of rock and roll, he is recognized by listeners around the world as a “legend of rock.” While not necessarily the founder of the rock and roll genre, he is often considered the closest figure to one and had an enormous influence on later music.
One of his signature songs, “Johnny B.
Goode,” was released in 1958 and reached No.
2 on the R&B singles chart.
