Celebrating African American Music Month: 20 Songs to Add to Your Playlist
- Zany Waves
- 4 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Every June, African American Music Month serves as a celebration of the contributions Black artists have made to music and culture. Originally established as Black Music Month in 1979, the observance recognizes the artists, songwriters, producers, and innovators whose work has shaped genres ranging from jazz, blues, gospel, and soul to hip-hop, R&B, rock, and beyond.
To help you celebrate their artistry and impact all 12 months of the year, Cherrelle and Emma Zoe have selected songs from some of their favorite Black artists – 20 tracks that deserve a spot on your playlist this month and beyond!
Aaliyah – “4 Page Letter”
Aaliyah has and always will be my favorite artist of all time. I’ve been a fan of hers for as long as I can remember. I love everything about her, from her music to her style and everything in between. However, if I had to choose what I love about her the most, it would be her voice. Her voice was soft and velvety. It always hooks me from the moment she started singing and still keeps me wanting more. Another big thing I loved about her was her style, not just her music, but her style, fashion-wise as well. She had a unique style in both fashion and music, and on the music side, she was ahead of her time. Aaliyah forever deserves her nickname as the Princess of R&B. She’s more than just one of my favorite singers ever; she’s also my idol and one of my music inspirations. I know if she were still alive today and making music, she would be one of the ones on top. I don’t think I could choose one song to suggest by her because it’s impossible. Three of my all-time favorite Aaliyah songs would have to be “I Don’t Wanna,” “Miss You,” and “4 Page Letter.” – Cherrelle Johnson
Adia Victoria – “Magnolia Blues”
Doechii – “Black Girl Memoir”
GIVĒON – “Heartbreak Anniversary”
H.E.R – “Focus”
Infinite Coles – “DMs”
Infinity Song – “Stranger Danger”
Jae Stephens – “Precious”
Jamila Woods – “Wreckage Room”
Jensen McRae – “Just Like You”
Jordan Patterson – “Cinderella”
Joyce Wrice – “Crack The Code”
June McDoom – “Babe, You Light Me Up”
Leon Thomas – “Fade To Black”
Love Spells – “Crutch”
Orion Sun – “Dirty Dancer”
Ravyn Lenae – “Handle”
Shamir – “On My Own”
VINCINT – “Take Me Home”
Zsela – “Still Swing”