here are 7 black musicians that changed the industry

Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) known as “Satchmo,” was a jazz trumpeter. Many credit Armstrong with putting Jazz “on the map.” Most famous rendition – “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

Sam Cooke (1931-1964) known as “father of soul music.” In 1964 Cooke had a single “A Change is Gonna Come.” It was inspired when Cooke and friends were turned away at a white-only hotel.

James Brown (1933-2006) known as the “Godfather of soul.” Brown Began singing gospel with the Famous Flames. Brown inspired many up-and-coming artists – including a young Michael Jackson. His most famous song “I got you (I feel good).”

Etta James (1938-2012) a grammy award singer whose career spanned many genres – gospel, blues, rock, Jazz, R&B, and soul.

Nina Simone (1933-2003) Simone released her hit single “I love you Porgy” in 1958. She addressed racial inequalities with “Mississippi Goddam.” Simone was awarded an honorary degree by Curtis institute of music.

Michael Jackson (1958-2009) known as the “King of Pop.” He was a singer/songwriter with his siblings in the Jackson 5.  Michael went on his own to write and perform.  His album “Thriller”

produced many hit singles including “Beat It”, “Thriller”, and “Billie Jean”. “Thriller” is the world’s best-selling album according to Guinness World Records.

Tupac Shakur (1971-1996) 2pac is held as one of the greatest rappers and lyricists of all time despite his career only lasting 5 years. He was killed on the 7th of September 1996. He had hit albums made in less than a week. He was big in the Black Power movement and civil rights. He was a Black Panther. As the wise words of 2pac, “God Bless the Dead.”