Meet the most influential African American artists of all time

Are you immersed in African American culture and would like to know who the most influential African American musicians of all time are? Or are you a history student and want to find out about how African American music helped to shape the general culture of the United States community? February is the black history month and this is the time when the history of African Americans is commemorated, and on this day, the influence of the most notable African American musicians is remembered.

The women and men on this list did well in their singing careers and left a lifelong impression among the black population. Racism is still a serious issue in America these days, although there have been serious efforts to ensure that it’s eliminated. With all the noise out there, it helps to acknowledge those who have come before us to fight for diversity, equality, equal representation, and the dignity of African Americans. There is a lot to be done about African American art in the United States and it’s good that the progress that has been achieved is celebrated.

Here are some of the most influential African American artists that left a huge impact with their music, Over her lifetime, she went ahead to win 40 and is among the few singers who managed to sell more than 40 million records.

1. Jimi Hendrix (1942-1970)

His music helped to shape rock music in 1960, and he is known for his electric guitar playing skills. Initially, he served in the United States Army before he requested to be discharged honorably. He started his musical career playing as a backup musician for major acts before going alone to become one of the well-known electric guitarists, combining aspects of soul, blues, and rock. 

2. Ray Charles (1930-2004)

He is the one who pioneered soul music, and his performances started in the 1950s. Although he lost his sight at the age of 7 and was sent to the Florida School for the deaf and blind, he went ahead to learn and master how to write and read music in braille. It’s also in that school where he learned to play the clarinet, saxophone, piano, and organ among others.

3. Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996)

Ella Fitzgerald is also known as the queen of jazz and was known for her ability to time strongly, as well as for provisional scat ability. Her career started around 1930 and she is the first black singer to win a Grammy award in 1958 for the best vocals category. Over her lifetime, she went ahead to win 40 and is among the few singers who managed to sell more than 40 million records. Moreover, she made many appearances in numerous television and film programs, and this helped to solidify her as an icon of pop culture.

4. Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

The late Michael Jackson was a popular king of pop, and he started his career as part of his siblings before breaking away to sing solo. He became a global icon because of his amazing songwriting ability, dancing, and singing. His Thriller album which he produced in 1982 remains the best selling record of all time.