a little help...

[bohemiangel]

I'm planning a unit of work on African-American music (linking in to various social developments and cultural change in America). I want a range of specific artists and songs to look at across the last 100 years

Comments

[logopolys]

Maybe I'm just the Nirvana fan here, but...

Ledbelly. He was a principle influence on the formation of rock music, which I certainly find far more interesting than rap music.

I'm sure I could make a case for Hendrix, but I'm also sure someone else who likes him more will.

Here's a list -- a short list

[lastwordy_mcgee]

What's Goin On -- Marvin Gaye (first socially-conscious "hit" record by a black artist

[thetinysambo]

Aretha Franklin might be good thrown into the mix too. Other than that I can only think of a few modern ones like Lenny Kravitz and Kanye West

[miskatonika]

Jimi Hendrix! He played his guitar left handed AND upside down. The man was a genius :)

[momus]

Let's see, if I can scare up a few that haven't been touched here...
Jazz is huge, of course.
But I'm not a huge Jazz fan, and most names are escam\ping me at the moment.
But...
Louis Armstrong is a massive influence on... well everyone in a way
john Coltrane
Herbie Hancock
Nat King Cole

Gospel: Mahalia Jackson is outstanding and probably has one of the most amazing voices I've ever heard.

Punk: Bad Brains

[bohemiangel]

Yeah Billie is definitely going to feature. The Harlem renaissance is going to to make a big appearance as well...albeit in a form that 12 year olds can deal with! :)