Celebrating African-American History Month

From the blues to zydeco, and jazz to hip-hop; from the slave-era spirituals about struggle and personal empowerment to the forefathers of rock & roll, America’s roots music is absolutely replete with the influence of the African-American community. So there is, quite possibly, no better way to celebrate African-American history month than by taking a look at the incredible music that has been contributed to the American story by African-American musicians and writers.

The influence of African-Americans on folk music has been immeasurable. Many of the songs that have come to be synonymous with struggle, empowerment, human rights, and perseverence have come from the African-American community. From folk-blues singers like Huddie Ledbetter (a.k.a. Leadbelly) to modern day hip hop artists like Common and Kanye West, the folk music of the African-American communities has embodied the struggle of the marginalized worker in America.
History of African-American Folk Music
Folksingers & The Civil Rights Movement
Civil Rights Songs