In celebration of Black History Month, this article honors some of the many black artists who were pioneers in the art of music; this list consists of those who are not commonly spoken of. Here are five black musicians that have helped create the sounds we love today.
The Belleville Three
The best way to start this list off is with some local legends. The Belleville Three is made up of the DJ's Juan Atkins, Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson, who all went to Belleville High School. These three together would end up originating the rhythmic sound of techno music, specifically Detroit techno. They are responsible for creating the Music Institute in Detroit and many other techno groups.
Labbi Siffre
This British singer-songwriter has played a key part in today’s music. Labbi Siffre was a talented singer and activist in the 70’s and 80’s having hit songs like “I got the…,” (Something Inside) so strong,” and “My song.” Sadly, he did not get the popularity he truly deserved due to being a gay black man. His songs have been sampled in well known tracks like Eminem's “My Name Is” and Kanye West's “I Wonder.” He is iconic even beyond the studio as he constantly spoke out against homophobia and racism throughout his career.
Out of every artist here, no other musician has been disrespected more than Tina Bell. She was the frontwoman for a Seattle band named Bam Bam back in the 80’s. She is responsible for grunge music and is named the queen of grunge punk. Even though she was innovative and sonically ahead of her time, she and her band are never mentioned even after she has passed. Many unfortunately credit misogyny and racism as the reason for her being scrubbed out of history.
Big Mama Thorton
The king of rock and roll is a title given to the deceased and esteemed Elvis Presley. Yet, that name comes into question when one brings up Big Mama Thorton. Wilie Mae Thorton, born in Alabama, was a blues singer who is arguably the creator of rock and roll. Her strong and gritty voice was complemented by the swing music which led to many hit songs like “Hounddog” or “Ball n Chain.” Even though her music charted high on the billboards, she was never compensated fairly. Even worse, when Elvis stole her sound, he received all of the fame and fortune due to him being a young, good looking white male.
Betty Davis
Betty Davis was a powerhouse of a woman with an eruptive sound. She was a funk artist who was outspoken about her sexual life, which got her banned on many radio stations. Her funky sound was nothing less than ear catching and it influenced many artists from Miles Davis to Prince. Being mistreated and silenced by the industry, she now lives a reclusive life back in Philadelphia. The funkadelic artist has a timeless and riveting sound.
These few are just a small portion of the amazing talents that should be discussed this Black History Month. Most of them either due to history or the industry have been treated unjustly. One of the best ways to honor them is to learn from history, so it's not be repeated.
