Black music has been at the forefront of American popular culture for decades, and male black singers have played a vital role in shaping the music industry as we know it today. From the smooth crooning of soul and R&B to the fiery energy of hip-hop and gospel, black male singers have showcased their musical prowess across a variety of genres.
This article celebrates the contributions of 20 of the most famous male black singers throughout history, showcasing their talent and the impact they have had on the music industry. These singers have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring generations of artists and listeners alike.
Some of the names on this list will be instantly recognizable, such as Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, and Prince, who not only dominated the charts with their music but also broke down barriers for black artists in the entertainment industry. Others, like Sam Cooke and Otis Redding, may be less well-known to some, but their impact on soul music is immeasurable.
From the soulful ballads of Luther Vandross to the catchy hooks of Usher and the socially conscious lyrics of Kendrick Lamar, these 20 black male singers have left an indelible mark on the music industry, and their legacies continue to inspire artists today.
1. Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye was an iconic black male singer who made a profound impact on the music industry during the 1960s and 70s. With his soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics, he became one of the most prominent figures of the Motown sound. Gaye’s career spanned over two decades and he produced a string of hits such as “What’s Going On” and “Sexual Healing”. His music tackled issues of racism, poverty, and war, and his legacy continues to inspire contemporary artists. Gaye’s untimely death in 1984 was a tragic loss to the music industry, but his music continues to be celebrated and revered by fans around the world.
2. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is one of the most iconic black male singers of all time, known for his soulful voice, masterful songwriting, and multi-instrumentalist talents. Born blind, Wonder began his music career at an early age and quickly rose to fame, producing a string of hit songs in the 1960s and 70s such as “Superstition” and “Isn’t She Lovely”. His music blended genres and broke down barriers, fusing elements of soul, funk, and pop with socially conscious lyrics. Wonder’s influence on music and culture is immeasurable, and he remains a beloved figure in the industry, having won 25 Grammy Awards throughout his career.
3. Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong, also known as Satchmo, was an American jazz trumpeter, composer, and singer. He is widely considered one of the most influential figures in jazz history, and his distinctive gravelly voice and improvisational style set him apart from other musicians of his time. Armstrong’s career spanned over five decades, and he recorded numerous hits, including “What a Wonderful World” and “Hello, Dolly!” He also broke down racial barriers in the music industry and became a beloved cultural icon.
4. Prince
Prince was an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and actor. He was known for his eclectic music style that blended elements of rock, pop, funk, R&B, and soul. With his flamboyant fashion sense, suggestive lyrics, and high-energy performances, Prince became a pop culture icon in the 1980s. He released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “Purple Rain,” “Sign o’ the Times,” and “1999.” Prince was also a talented guitarist and influenced generations of musicians with his innovative sound and style. He died in 2016, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
5. Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He first gained fame as the lead singer of the Commodores, a popular funk and soul group in the 1970s. In the 1980s, Richie embarked on a successful solo career, releasing numerous hits such as “Hello,” “All Night Long (All Night),” and “Say You, Say Me.” He also wrote and produced songs for other artists, including “We Are the World,” a charity single that raised millions of dollars for famine relief in Africa. Richie’s smooth and soulful voice, combined with his catchy melodies, have made him a beloved icon in the music industry.
6. Otis Redding
Otis Redding was an American soul singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the 1960s. He was born in Georgia in 1941 and grew up singing in church before pursuing a career in music. Redding’s powerful and soulful voice, combined with his heartfelt and emotive performances, made him a beloved icon in the music industry. He is known for hits such as “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” and “Respect.” Redding was also a talented songwriter and wrote many of his own songs. Unfortunately, his life was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1967, but his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
7. James Brown
James Brown, also known as the “Godfather of Soul,” was an American singer, songwriter, and bandleader. He was a pivotal figure in the development of funk and soul music in the 1960s and 1970s, and his electrifying stage presence and energetic performances made him a legendary figure in the music industry. Brown’s hits include “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” and “Sex Machine.” He also had a profound impact on the civil rights movement, using his platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice.
8. Bill Withers
Bill Withers was an American singer-songwriter and musician. He is best known for hits such as “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” and “Lovely Day.” Withers’ music was characterized by his smooth and soulful voice, combined with his thoughtful and introspective lyrics. He was a master at capturing the joys and struggles of everyday life and creating music that resonated with people from all walks of life. Withers’ music has been covered by countless artists and continues to be beloved by fans all over the world.
9. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. He first gained fame as a member of the Jackson 5, a popular Motown group in the 1960s. In the 1980s, he embarked on a highly successful solo career, releasing iconic hits such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” and “Beat It.” Jackson’s music and dance moves were characterized by their innovation and energy, and he became a global superstar and cultural icon. He also used his platform to advocate for humanitarian causes and was known for his philanthropic efforts. Jackson passed away in 2009, but his music and legacy continue to influence and inspire people around the world.
10. Ray Charles
Ray Charles was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who is often referred to as “The Genius.” He was born in Georgia in 1930 and grew up playing music in the church. Charles’ music blended elements of blues, gospel, jazz, and R&B, creating a unique and groundbreaking sound that influenced generations of musicians. His hits include “Hit the Road Jack,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “What’d I Say.” Charles’ distinctive voice and soulful performances earned him critical acclaim and widespread popularity. He also broke down racial barriers in the music industry and used his platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice. Charles passed away in 2004, but his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
11. Luther Vandross
Luther Vandross was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. He was born in New York in 1951 and began his music career as a backup singer for artists such as David Bowie and Bette Midler. Vandross’ smooth and soulful voice made him a beloved icon in the music industry, and his hits include “Never Too Much,” “Dance with My Father,” and “Here and Now.” He also wrote and produced music for other artists, including Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross. Vandross won numerous awards throughout his career and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. He passed away in 2005, but his music continues to inspire and move audiences around the world.
12. Sam Cooke
Sam Cooke was an American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur who is widely regarded as one of the most influential and pioneering figures in the history of soul music. He was born in Mississippi in 1931 and began his music career singing with gospel groups, but later transitioned to secular music. Cooke’s hits include “A Change Is Gonna Come,” “You Send Me,” and “Cupid.” He was known for his smooth and silky voice, as well as his songwriting abilities. Cooke also played an important role in the civil rights movement and used his music to advocate for social justice. Unfortunately, his life was cut short when he was tragically shot and killed in 1964 at the age of 33, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
13. Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole was an American singer, pianist, and jazz musician who is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of popular music. He was born in Alabama in 1919 and began his music career as a jazz pianist before transitioning to singing. Cole’s hits include “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Christmas Song.” He was known for his smooth and velvety voice, as well as his ability to cross genres and appeal to a wide range of audiences. Cole broke down racial barriers in the music industry and was one of the first African American musicians to host a television variety show. He passed away in 1965, but his music continues to be beloved by fans all over the world.
14. Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who is known for his smooth and soulful voice and his ability to write catchy and timeless songs. He was born in Michigan in 1940 and rose to fame as the lead singer of the Motown group, The Miracles. Robinson’s hits include “Tears of a Clown,” “Being with You,” and “Tracks of My Tears.” He is also known for his work as a songwriter and producer, penning hits for other Motown artists such as The Temptations and Marvin Gaye. Robinson’s influence on the music industry is immeasurable, and he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Despite his numerous accolades and accomplishments, Robinson remains a humble and respected figure in the music world.
15. Curtis Mayfield
Curtis Mayfield was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who is considered one of the most influential and innovative musicians in the history of soul music. He was born in Illinois in 1942 and began his music career as a member of the group The Impressions. Mayfield’s hits include “People Get Ready,” “Superfly,” and “Move On Up.” He was known for his socially conscious lyrics and his unique blend of gospel, soul, funk, and rock music. Mayfield’s music addressed themes such as civil rights, social justice, and poverty, and he used his platform to advocate for positive change in the world. Mayfield passed away in 1999, but his music continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
16. Barry White
Barry White was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who rose to fame in the 1970s with his unique blend of soul, funk, and disco music. He was born in Texas in 1944 and began his music career as a session musician before transitioning to singing and producing. White’s hits include “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe,” “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything,” and “Never, Never Gonna Give You Up.” He was known for his deep and velvety voice, as well as his romantic and sensual lyrics. White’s music has influenced countless artists in various genres, and he is often credited with pioneering the romantic soul and disco movements of the 1970s. He passed away in 2003, but his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans all over the world.
17. Ronald Isley
Ronald Isley is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who is known for his silky-smooth voice and his contributions to the soul and R&B music genres. He was born in Ohio in 1941 and rose to fame as the lead vocalist of The Isley Brothers. Isley’s hits include “Shout,” “It’s Your Thing,” and “For the Love of You.” He is also known for his collaborations with other artists such as R. Kelly and Burt Bacharach. Isley’s music has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, and his influence can be heard in the work of many modern-day singers. Despite his many accolades and achievements, Isley remains a humble and respected figure in the music industry.
18. Ben E. King
Ben E. King was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who is best known for his soulful and emotive voice. He was born in North Carolina in 1938 and rose to fame as the lead singer of The Drifters. King’s hits include “Stand by Me,” “Spanish Harlem,” and “There Goes My Baby.” He also had a successful solo career, with hits such as “Supernatural Thing” and “I (Who Have Nothing).” King’s music has been covered by countless artists in various genres, and his influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary singers. King passed away in 2015, but his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans all over the world.
19. Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist who is considered one of the pioneers of rock and roll music. He was born in Missouri in 1926 and began his music career in the 1950s with hits such as “Maybellene,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” and “Johnny B. Goode.” Berry’s music blended elements of rhythm and blues, country, and rockabilly, and he was known for his energetic performances and distinctive guitar style. His influence on rock and roll and popular music in general is immeasurable, and his songs have been covered by countless artists over the years. Berry passed away in 2017, but his legacy as a founding father of rock and roll lives on.
20. Jackie Wilson
Jackie Wilson was an American singer, songwriter, and performer who was known for his powerful and soulful voice and his energetic live performances. He was born in Detroit in 1934 and rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s with hits such as “Reet Petite,” “Lonely Teardrops,” and “Higher and Higher.” Wilson’s music was a blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and rock and roll, and he was known for his dynamic stage presence and acrobatic dance moves. He was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and played an important role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry. Wilson passed away in 1984, but his music continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
Macey West is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
