In honor of Black History Month, I want to take you on a short journey of five African musicians that have influenced history.
February is Black History Month, which began in the early 1900s in the U.S. to promote achievements by Black Americans and other people from African descent. The 2021 theme is “Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity.”
Black people and their families have been portrayed in various ways throughout history, but one thing remains, they have made great positive contributions to worldwide history. I’ll spend the next few weeks giving you a glimpse. First, can we talk about music?
As I stated in this post, it seems like a trend now that people want to listen to Afro beats, try African food, and wear African clothing… thank you Wakanda! But Africans have been changing the world long since and here are 5 significant contributors:
The Cameroonian Afro jazz legend died in 2020 from the Coronavirus. He is known as the most sampled African artist with his music being reused over 125 times. The video below gives a good description of various people including Michael Jackson, Jay-Z, and more, who have been influenced by his music. You can also watch this original performance of his popular “Soul Makossa.”
The late South African singer-songwriter and actress also known as Mama Africa was a significant anti-apartheid advocate in South Africa. Watch her story in the video below.
Still going strong after decades of great music, this four time Grammy award winner from Benin continues to spread positivity about Africa through her music and her infectious personality.
The Malian singer-songwriter and activist has been called, “The Golden Voice of Africa.” Being born with albinism, Salif experienced a lot of discriminated. Through his music and foundation, he has spent many years advocating for the rights of people with albinism.
The late Nigerian artist and activist known as The Father of Afro beat was a major influence on current Afro beat music that many of us love to dance. His political music lyrics repeatedly challenged his government. Fela, a musical broadway show was created in 2008 based on Fela Kuti’s life and music.
It is remarkable that each of these artists utilized their personalities, experiences, talents, and passions to pursue what they found important. It is a reminder that this is how we change the world.
Yes! Greatest African Artists that have changed the world and their music continuously having a great impact – Impactful choice!!!
Great selection of African artists!
Great musicians from the lovely continent of Africa. Fela always nailed it on African leaders in his music. Nice!
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