“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke- Inspired by an event where Cooke and his entourage were turned down at a whites-only hotel.The song combines themes of pain and faith with the hope for continuing progress, specifically in earning equal rights for black people. Originally a poem written in 1900 by James Johnson, his brother John Johnson set the song to music five years later. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson (poem) and John Rosamond Johnson (music) - The song that has been recognized as the “Black National Anthem” deserves its rightful spot on this list.Here is a list of some of the songs that have made that impact. It is essential to note the songs that have come to be an essential part of black history. Dating back as early as the 18th century, black musicians have an extensive catalog of songs that have come to be essential to black culture.
For minorities, not only can music relay a message, but it can be a form of protest, a call to action, a celebration of cultures and more.īlack artists have used their voices to create an everlasting impact in the music industry through genres such as country, rhythm & blues, hip hop/rap/trap, house, disco, rock and roll, and more . Throughout history, musicians have used their art as a form of communicating messages.
