I grew up in a household that was filled with music, whether it was Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Al Green, or Gladys Knight & the Pips. I can’t recall a definitive moment in which black women in music began to influence my life. However, as my taste in music began to evolve, I started to look to artists that looked like me and I could identify with. This list is only comprised of a few of the black women (mostly those who started their career before my time) that have not only shaped my musical taste, but have transformed how I view artistry. They are bold and beautiful, and their legacy continues to inspire me and others. I hope their art is as profound for you as it was for me.
Anita Baker
Favorite Song: Angel
Aretha Franklin
Favorite Song: Until You Come Back to Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)
Lauryn Hill
Favorite Song: Zion
Jill Scott
Favorite Song: A Long Walk
Whitney Houston
Favorite Song: I Have Nothing
SWV
Favorite Song: Rain
India Arie
Favorite Song: Beautiful Flower
Tamia
Favorite Song: So Into You
Sade
Favorite Song: Is It a Crime
Minnie Riperton
Favorite Song: Perfect Angel
Natalie Cole
Favorite Song: The Very Thought of You
Jade
Favorite Song: Don’t Walk Away
Toni Braxton
Favorite Song: You’re Making me High
TLC
Favorite Song: Creep
Phyllis Hyman
Favorite Song: Waiting for the Last Tear to Fall
Patrice Rushen
Favorite Song: Forget Me Nots (Single Version)
Chaka Khan
Favorite Song: And the Melody Still Lingers On (Night in Tunisia)
The Emotions
Favorite Song: Don’t Ask My Neighbor
Brownstone
Favorite Song: If You Love Me
Corinne Bailey Rae
Favorite Song: Like a Star