Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces

XXzibit

Xzibit – X

“X,” one of Xzibit’s signature tracks, is a hip-hop classic that pairs heavy, bass-driven production with his powerful, commanding voice.

In the music video for this song, you can see a cool, tough Xzibit—quite the opposite of the cute, playful side he sometimes shows on variety shows.

Still Not a Player feat. JoeBig Pun

Big Pun – Still Not a Player (Official Video) ft. Joe

The allure of this landmark East Coast hip-hop track, which made a major impact in the late ’90s, lies in the sensual world crafted by Big Pun, a trailblazing Latin artist.

His exceptional lyrical skill, commanding flow, and the addition of R&B singer Joe created a sound that captivated countless listeners.

Released in March 1998 as the second single from the album Capital Punishment, the track reached No.

24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and achieved the historic feat of becoming the first platinum-certified single by a solo Latin hip-hop artist.

It’s a perfect song for late-night drives.

The exquisite groove woven from sultry R&B phrases and deft rap pairs flawlessly with the city at night, and its soothing melody is sure to move you.

If I ain’t got youAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

This song, performed by R&B diva Alicia, opens with a beautiful piano melody.

No matter how many diamonds or other costly things one might obtain, without you they mean nothing—there’s nothing I want besides you.

It’s an immortal classic with moving lyrics.

Back To BlackAmy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse – Back To Black

This is the song Back to Black by the late British charismatic singer Amy Winehouse.

With her distinctive voice and emotionally rich performances, Amy was regarded by the music industry as a rare talent in recent years.

However, in her private life she was entangled in a troubled relationship with a man, which left her both physically and emotionally devastated.

After cutting ties and breaking free from that relationship, she married another man and seemed on the verge of finally finding happiness, only to pass away soon after.

She was just 27 years old.

It pains me to think what songs she might be singing now if she were still alive.

Gypsy WomanBobby Womack

Bobby Womack – Gypsy Woman

Alongside Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, and Stevie Wonder, singer Bobby Womack left a profound mark on 1970s soul music.

While neo-soul—a stylish, cutting-edge strain of soul—was booming at the time, Bobby incorporated elements of neo-soul while continuing to center his work on classic soul.

His “Gypsy Woman” is also rooted in classic soul, and it remains a masterpiece that has influenced many artists to this day.

Didn’t Cha KnowErykah Badu

Erykah Badu – Didn’t Cha Know

Erykah Badu is a female singer whose unique sound—evoking elements of folk and world music—has been distilled into neo-soul, earning her the love of hardcore Black music aficionados around the globe.

Alongside Lauryn Hill, she is a defining figure of neo-soul, but unlike more conventional neo-soul, her music exudes a distinctly languid, enigmatic vibe.

You could say it’s like a looser, more laid-back take on Al Green’s musical sensibility.

You can fully savor that individuality in her track “Didn’t Cha Know.” If you’re into distinctive, left-of-center neo-soul, she’s an artist you absolutely shouldn’t miss—be sure to check her out.

Remember MeJennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson – Remember Me

This is a number by Jennifer Hudson, whose singing talent was highly praised on the American audition show American Idol and who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the film Dreamgirls.

With a gospel-like sound combined with a crisp, dynamic rhythm, it’s a stylish track.

Jennifer’s powerful, dynamic vocals are truly impressive and well worth a listen.