Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces

I Love You More Than You’ll Ever KnowDonny Hathaway

I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know

Danny Hathaway, a leading artist of the neo-soul movement that boomed in the 1970s.

Although racism against Black people was severe in America at the time, his family was affluent, and he studied classical music and more from a young age.

As a result, he harbored no prejudice against white people and released many covers of white artists—something virtually unprecedented then.

His original works were also highly acclaimed, and his elegant, classically informed musicality can be considered truly unique.

This track, “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know,” is a soul rendition that lets you savor his distinctive musical style.

Purple RainPrince

Prince – Purple Rain (Official Video)

Prince, the American artist who gained worldwide popularity for his originality and genre-defying musical style, was active throughout the 1980s and was often discussed as a counterpart to Michael Jackson at the time.

Among his works, the greatest is surely Purple Rain.

Crafted as a distinctive ballad, it went on to have a profound influence on later artists, including D’Angelo’s classic Untitled.

What’s Going OnMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

On January 20, 2021, the state of Michigan in the United States established “What’s Going On Day.” Marking the 50th anniversary of the release of Marvin Gaye’s timeless classic “What’s Going On” on the same day in 1971, it served as a reminder of the song’s historical significance as a literal “soul record” that advocates for peace, universal love, and unity.

In 2019, the first official music video was created by director Savannah Leaf, and in these turbulent times, “What’s Going On” continues to offer guidance on what truly matters.

It is undoubtedly one of the greatest legacies born from Black music.

Even if one doesn’t know much about Marvin Gaye himself, nearly everyone has heard “What’s Going On” at least once somewhere.

As noted, it was released as a single on January 20, 1971, by the prestigious Motown label and became a massive hit, later becoming a standard covered by many subsequent artists.

Gaye contributed to both the lyrics and composition, and the song was strongly influenced by the social climate of the time as well as letters he received from his younger brother, who had been sent to the Vietnam War.

Musically, it features a highly refined sound with flowing strings, a romantic saxophone tone, and a bass line that creates a distinctive groove—an excellent number born from superb production and ensemble work.

While Gaye’s vocals are relatively relaxed and gently conversational, he appeals to us listeners in the face of harsh realities, asking, “What’s going on?” In today’s deeply troubled world, we hope you’ll listen anew to the song’s urgent message.

Papa Was A Rolling StoneThe Temptations

The Temptations Papa Was A Rolling Stone 1972 Single Version

The Temptations are one of the signature vocal groups representing the legendary Motown label—indispensable to any discussion of Black music history—and have continued to perform from their debut in the 1960s right up to the present day in the 2020s.

At this point, Otis Williams is the only remaining original member, but it’s truly remarkable that, despite repeated lineup changes, they’ve continued to release hits across different eras.

The song featured here, “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” was first released in 1972 by a group called The Undisputed Truth.

In September of the same year, the Temptations covered it and released it as a single; not only did it hit number one on the U.

S.

charts and become a massive success, it also earned them a Grammy Award.

The greatness of this track owes much to producer and songwriter Norman Whitfield, whose presence was crucial.

Every Temptations release from 1966 to 1974 was created in partnership with Whitfield, who boldly infused the classic Motown sound with elements of psychedelic rock to forge a unique sonic identity.

One of the finest results of their collaboration is this very “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” Unfortunately, Whitfield’s emphasis on instrument-driven arrangements—despite working with a vocal group—ultimately led to their split.

Even so, the song’s fearsomely deep and cool forward-thinking edge is precisely the kind of work that deserves rediscovery by younger music fans.

TreasureBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Treasure (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars’s smash modern funk song, “Treasure.” Many of you have probably heard this classic on TV or the radio.

With its snappy funk rhythm and danceable vocals, it’s a track that’s perfect for getting you moving.

The mirror ball, the bright red jacket, and the 80s-inspired fashion are pure funk.

And as some of you may know, the video’s visual effects—drawing inspiration from Earth, Wind & Fire’s music videos—are especially fun to watch.

HumbleKendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar – HUMBLE.

“HUMBLE.” stands out with lyrics themed around a quintessential hip-hop rise to the top.

Kendrick Lamar’s background is astounding, and his lyrics—expressing his raw, real life—are a must-hear.

The track has a very powerful, impactful sound, so once you listen, it’s guaranteed to stick in your head.

UntitledD’Angelo

D’Angelo – Untitled (How Does It Feel) (Official Music Video)

D’Angelo is known as a leading artist in the neo-soul genre, which blends soul music with hip-hop, jazz, and funk.

He was a major figure from the 1990s through the 2000s, a pioneer who helped create a new genre in neo-soul, and an indispensable figure in the history of Black music.

His track “Untitled” is one of his signature works, crafted as a romantic piece influenced by Prince’s “Purple Rain.”