(ThyBlackMan.com) Few artists have had a more significant influence on both funk and soul music than Larry Graham. As the pioneering bassist of Sly and the Family Stone and the dynamic frontman of Graham Central Station, Graham didn’t just play music—he redefined how the bass guitar could drive a song. ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) When it comes to pure, effortless falsetto and emotional storytelling, few voices in R&B stand out like El DeBarge’s. Whether leading the family group DeBarge or stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, El had a way of making you feel every lyric. His songs weren’t just about ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) Charlie Parker didn’t just play jazz—he flipped it inside out and painted it with fire. Known as “Bird,” he soared through the bebop revolution with lightning-fast lines, harmonic daring, and soul-stirring emotion. His alto sax wasn’t just an instrument—it was a voice that cried, laughed, and preached the blues ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) When I think about the roots of blues music—the raw honesty, the pain wrapped in poetry, the joy carved out of hardship—I think of Ma Rainey. Her voice was more than a sound; it was a declaration. Long before it was fashionable or even safe, Ma Rainey was singing ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) There’s something about Etta James that goes beyond voice. It’s spirit. It’s soul. It’s truth wrapped in melody. While most folks immediately think of “At Last” when her name comes up, real music lovers know that Etta’s catalog runs deep—deeper than many ever take the time to explore. This ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) Phyllis Hyman remains one of the most underappreciated yet undeniably powerful voices in the history of soul, R&B, and jazz-influenced music. Known for her unmistakable alto, emotional transparency, and commanding stage presence, Hyman carved a niche that defied industry trends. While commercial superstardom largely eluded her, her artistry has ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) This is the fourth time I’ve written about Sam Cooke—and fans still keep asking for more. And honestly, it makes perfect sense. Sam Cooke is one of those rare artists whose catalog runs so deep, even longtime listeners find themselves uncovering hidden treasures. His music isn’t just timeless—it’s alive. ...
(ThyBlackMan.com) Shirley Horn was never one to chase the spotlight. Instead, she let the music whisper, sway, and ache on its own terms. A master of restraint, she redefined jazz vocal performance by doing less and saying more. Accompanying herself on the piano, Horn’s phrasing and timing could freeze time—each ...