Black Music Month is the month of June. BMM Hall of Fame! Where you cast your vote for your favorite artists who have profoundly influenced the music industry across genres like soul, R&B, gospel, jazz, pop, and hip-hop. Legends such as Aretha Franklin, who has the honor of being called the "Queen of Soul," brought unmatched vocal power and emotional depth to every performance. From singing in the church, to singing in front of the president and the world. Her music also became one of many soundtracks for the civil rights movement and set records for future vocalists. Ray Charles, the pioneer of soul music, blended gospel with rhythm and blues, creating a sound that was already a part of the traditional African American home. These artists and many others have open doors for countless musicians of color that have and will come after them.
In recent years, performers like Beyoncé and Usher have stood on the foundation of those who came before them and their accomplishment and set a new bar. Beyoncé’s with 34 Grammys the most musical talents who currently hold the most Grammys by one person has become a cultural icon, with elaborate performances, and messages of empowerment. Usher, with his smooth voice and dynamic stage presence, has dominated R&B for over two decades, influencing artists worldwide. These singers, past and present, continue to redefine what it means to be a star while honoring the rich legacy of African American artistry and resilience in music.