WebListen on Spotify: Follow our #WomenWhoRock playlist featuring classics from Etta James, The Supremes, The Shirelles, Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell, Aretha Franklin, The Shangri-Las & many more. Ray Charles. She was 44. Next: Our ultimate list of the best R&B artists ever. From Aretha Franklin to Diana Ross to Gladys Knight, the musical landscape was forever changed. She has sold over 100 million albums, making her one of the best-selling artists of all time. Dinah is known for her incredible voice and unique musical style, which blended elements of R&B, blues, and even pop. Foul play was never ruled out. 
Here we have another legendary blues musician, Muddy Waters, who was equally at home singing or playing guitar. Next: Top R&B songs of all time (our list of choices). She went on to have a wildly successful career spanning half a century. It was her first album that was credited for bringing R&B and hip-hop to mainstream audiences. While she would never act again, she did continue to perform and is still performing on stage today. Summing Up Our List Of Famous 1960s Black Singers, 15 Of The Best Songs About Kids Growing Up, 10 Easy Jazz Saxophone Songs For Anyone To Learn, 15 Amazing Gift Ideas That Cello Players Will Love, 31 Of The Best Songs About Change: Transformation Playlist. She began her music career as a teenager performing in minstrel shows and signed a contract with Paramount Records in 1932, where she would record more than 100 songs over a five-year span. The most popular black female singer of the 50s is Dinah Washington. What Is The Meaning Of Stairway To Heaven: Led Zeppelins Amazing 1971 Musical Epic? 
Diana Ross. She was hospitalized for respiratory issues and heart failure, and would become wheelchair bound after having both of her legs amputated in 1993. Rocks Off Magazine is reader-supported. Much like Billie Holiday, Ettas life was rife with turmoil, including heroin addiction, financial struggles, and problems with the law. While in retirement, Smith appeared in a handful of films, the last of which was Because I Love You in 1943. Although her star only shined for a brief period, it shined brightly, and she was one of the most famous African American singers from the 50s. This led to a music Betty Everett. Need a hand with anything? Fitzgerald, who became known as the First Lady of Song, was popular as the centerpiece of her own concerts. She also recorded hit duets with Perry Como and Eddy Arnold. Billie Holiday. 15 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Black Singers Of The 1950s. James had won 17 Blues Music Awards and six Grammys during her career. Next: Greatest karaoke songs for women to sing (try these out, girls). Nina Simone. Weeks later, Holiday played to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall. Sadly, his life was cut tragically short in 1984 when his father killed him during a fight. To date, shes sold over 90 million albums and was named the top R&B artist of the 2000s. From an Italian neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey, Connie Francis was born Concetta Franconero in December of 1938. She enjoyed a career spanning more than 70 years in acting, singing, and business. The 1960s for Charles was his crossover decade, in which he had major success in integrating pop music, rhythm and blues, and country music. In 1993, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and then, in 2001, into the Blues Hall of Fame. This is a professional review website. Next: The greatest female singers in history (our list of top woman vocalists). Since her first single was released in 2005, Rihanna has sold 60 million physical albums and 215 digital versions. She still tours with church groups today and has recently released Christian music albums. Ray Charles. Billie Holiday is yet another vocalist with whom no study of jazz history would be complete. 5. WebLiving up to her moniker Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight was another prolific Black singer from the 60s leader in the soul music scene, headlining her group The Pips to release hit singles including Midnight Train to Georgia, and Thats What Friends Are For, two instantly recognizable songs even to today. His first successful album Calypso became the first recording by a single artist to sell over 1 million copies. Having the ability to hit up to the 7th-octave range is part of what helped catapult Mariah Carey to the global spotlight during the 90s. 101 songs. Stevland Hardaway Morris, whose more familiar stage name is Stevie Wonder, is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Next: Top female empowerment songs of all time (women power tracks). She had two major charting hits. Listen to more of Kathy Linden on Amazon here! 1. Dinah Washington was the most popular black female singer of the 50s. She hit the jackpot with her award-winning solo album. Your odds are slim of meeting a music fan anywhere in the world who hasnt heard the name, Ray Charles. One of her biggest hits was Where The Boys Are in 1961. Her astounding career was tragically cut short due to a car accident at age 43. Related: We wrote a post about the best black singers of all time here. The St Louis-born musician was initially drawn in by blues musicians before eventually elaborating on their techniques to create what we currently think of as rock and roll. Required fields are marked *, document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a7a35e647c0ad510840766d079a2f95a" );document.getElementById("if75a4498f").setAttribute( "id", "comment" );Comment *, Careers Contact Us Privacy Policy CookiePolicy Win. In 2018, Simone was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and, three years after, in 2021, into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. The Queen of Soul had such a long and legendary career its easy to overlook her early success in the 50s. In his career, he won 18 Grammy Awards, including the four mentioned above, and produced countless hits that are popular to this day. 14 on the charts respectively. Etta James. Little Richard. She was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Sarah Vaughan. Aside from numerous hit songs, she was also famous for her WMGM radio program, Songs by Sarah Vaughan, a 15-minute show which aired Wednesday through Sunday evening live from The Clique Club. She also shattered gender and racial barriers, most notably becoming the first black female singer to win a Grammy at the inaugural awards ceremony in 1958. The Empress of Soul started her career in the 60s as part of The Pips. Read More 8 Famous Black Families In The Entertainment Industry Worth WatchingContinue, In the 1980s, black cinema found a strong voice, and the decade saw a wide range of movies written, starring, and directed by black men and women. James had a rough childhood that included abuse from her vocal coach, an absent father, and a mother who was frequently not around. Smith reportedly fell ill the following year spending the last two years of her life in Harlem hospital. Her career peaked in the late 50s and early 60s, where she found fame with songs such as Dance With Me, Henry, Good Rockin Daddy, and Spoonful. Aretha Franklin The first singer on our list is Aretha Franklin. Long before Aretha, Tina, Whitney, Janet, Brandy, Monica, and Beyonce, agroup of pioneering jazz and blues vocalists fashioned the blueprintfor the record-breaking feats enjoyed by some of musics biggestnames. 
She is well known for maintaining lyrical integrity while making melodies her own. She had some of the biggest hits of the 70s and early 80s that propelled her career to extraordinary heights. Throughout her career Rainey recorded with the likes of Louis Armstrong, became close friends with Bessie Smith, and toured with the Georgia Jazz Band until her retirement in 1935. But her life was beset by legal troubles, relationship woes, and drug abuse. 
3. From putting out visual albums to accumulating 28 Grammys, not to mention an abundance of other awards, Beyonc is the highest-earning Black musician of all time. She now resides in California where she works as a session and live performer. Perhaps the most influential jazz singer of her day, Billie Holiday blazed a path for her unique singing style the likes of which the world had never seen. Diana Ross. Countless jazz musicians cite Cole as an influence, and many pop stars would go on to cover songs that he made famous. 26 on the Billboard charts in 1950. The Godfather of Soul, another nickname of Browns, remained popular until his death in the early 2000s and is still looked back upon as one of the most famous musicians ever to live. We hope youve enjoyed our list of the top 20 female singers of the 50s. Top 10 Female Singers Of The '50s, '60s, And '70s By Lyra Radford | January 30, 2018 Circa 1955: American singer and actor Rosemary Clooney (1928 - 2002) sings and dances in a ballroom or on a stage, accompanied by a pianist and a band. Your email address will not be published. Originally the group was formed with Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Georgeanna Tillman, Juanita Cowart, and Georgia Dobbins, who was later replaced by Wanda Young. An inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, Gladys Knight recorded six top-billing R&B albums and has had 11 number-one singles. These soul, gospel, and R&B artists performed for sold-out crowds at the most prestigious arenas and sold records all around the world. Our list of the 20 best female singers of the 50s looks back at a time when female vocalists really began to take center stage and move up the charts. Many of these artists used their music to communicate powerful messages in support of social equality and racial justice. Next: Our picks for the absolute greatest black musicians ever. The Top 10 Eric Clapton Songs from His Iconic Solo Career, Rolling Stones Songs That Changed The Music World. Over the next five years, Vaughan would divorce Treadwell and married her second husband Clyde Atkins with whom she adopted a daughter, Paris Vaughan (a.k.a. Billboard magazine ranked her as the most successful R&B/Hip-Hop artist of the last 25 years. She died in 1946 at age 63. Overall, she sold as many as 32 million albums, making her the 27th most successful R&B female singer in history. Born in 1917, Ellas early life was filled with hardships. 5. The album Live at the Apollo became his hallmark and marked the beginning of a long career. WebYolanda Adams (born 1961): Gospel Ivie Anderson (19041949): jazz Marian Anderson (18971993): opera Louis Armstrong (19011971): jazz Martina Arroyo (born 1936): opera Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar (born 1992): hip hop Jhen Aiko: R&B, neo soul Ashanti: R&B, hip hop, soul Amerie (born 1980): R&B, pop, hip hop, soul funk, go-go B [ edit] Franklin was able to maintain a busy career into her elderly years, unlike other musicians who suffered from mental and physical struggles on the road. Embed from Getty Imageswindow.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'ulDUm0kcQiND3e5PcfMQ_w',sig:'4vh06-rt1JMFF4Cy52kCNpaabJ5WYPs0dL4m5uTwxeU=',w:'594px',h:'476px',items:'74300092',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })}); The most popular black recording artist of the 1950s was Dinah Washington, who amassed more than two dozen R&B top 10 hits between 1948 and 1955. After later fleeing from an abusive stepfather, she worked for the Mafia and performed other odd jobs until eventually finding herself on stage at the Apollo Theater, where she competed in their Amateur Night and won first place. She was a success in both pop and country music, selling more than 100 million records over her six-decade-long career. Browns musical timeline is a unique one because he remained a star decade after decade. Fitzgerald would win a total of 13 Grammys throughout her career, and earned the Grammys Lifetime Achievement Award in 1967. Julie London was born to parents who performed in vaudeville, so its no surprise that she performed mostly jazz songs. One of the greatest voices of her century is how the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame referred to Etta. Calloway had a longtime association with the Cotton Club in New Yorks Harlem neighborhood. WebYolanda Adams (born 1961): Gospel Ivie Anderson (19041949): jazz Marian Anderson (18971993): opera Louis Armstrong (19011971): jazz Martina Arroyo (born 1936): opera Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar (born 1992): hip hop Jhen Aiko: R&B, neo soul Ashanti: R&B, hip hop, soul Amerie (born 1980): R&B, pop, hip hop, soul funk, go-go B [ edit] And by 15, she was signed by the major label Columbia Records. Some of her most famous hits include Dream a Little Dream of Me, Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall, and It Dont Mean a Thing (If It Aint Got That Swing). 101 Female Rock 'n Roll Girls of the '50s - Compilation In 1958, she released her final album, Lady in Stain, before dying a year later from cirrhosis at the age of 44. Before she was a hitmaker, Dinah was singing in clubs at 15. Born Jamesetta Hawkins, Etta James is known for bridging the gap between rhythm and blues and rock and roll. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Grammys, the National Medal of Arts, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Next up we have Diana Ross, who is best known as the lead singer of The Supremes, an all-female Motown vocal group that released some of the biggest hits of the 1960s and 1970s. Waters influenced countless contemporary rock and blues musicians, including the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Jeff Beck. She started off singing gospel and playing piano in The pianist and singer became known for his melting pot style, that incorporated rhythm and blues, jazz, rock, and even elements from genres like country music. Nat King Cole. Because over overcrowding, Fitzgerald was transferred to the New York Training School for Girls, but escaped and was homeless for a time. Top gay singers in history (our list of top LGBTQ singers). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Sarah Vaughan. Pickett was nominated for five Grammys during his career and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to American soul music. Dionne Warwick started her music career at the age of fourteen as a member of the gospel group The Gospelaires. Theres no denying the impact and contributions of black recording acts, and Black Music Month is the perfect time to celebrate some of thegroundbreaking black singers whose tenacity and determination paved the way for some of our favorite artists to break barriers of their own. Holiday left a remarkable legacy, but her career was punctuated by bouts of drug use and problems with addiction. Lets get started. His single Georgia On My Mind garnered him four Grammys! WebTOP 100 FEMALE SOLO SINGERS OF THE '50S AND '60S Patti Page - All My Love, The Tennessee Waltz, Mockin' Bird Hill, I Went to Your Wedding, The Doggie in the Window, Cross Over the Bridge, Allegheny Moon, Old Cape Cod; Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte There were several female British singers that appeared in the 60s and 70s. 4 on the US pop charts in 1959. I'm Rock Bot! Ella Fitzgerald is a name that is synonymous with vocal jazz. The Queen of the Whistle Register produced quite a bit of music before her untimely death from breast cancer at 31. Dinah Washington. Her raspy take on some of their more sultry hits led her to many R&B solo projects and an album. She studied music at Hartt College of Music, where her initial work as a demo singer for Burt Bacharach led to her recording contract. She started out as a singer and television presenter. Listen to more of Patti Page on Amazon here! In 1984, she became the first R&B singer to have a hit featuring a rapper. While she became popular later on for her movies and television show, The Debbie Reynolds Show, Debbie Reynolds did enjoy a successful music career in the 1950s. Given all of the great vocal music that infused this decade, it was not an easy feat to compile this list. After the tragic death of fellow TLC member Left Eye, Chilli went on to put together her own solo album. An amateur guitarist, avid music lover, movie buff and Owner of Rocks Off Magazine. Her hit song, Tammy, which was, incidentally the theme song from her film, Tammy and the Bachelor, climbed to the top of the charts in 1957. Many say she was lost way too early and that she had a lot more to give to the world. The singer-songwriter and composer released 160 recordings under Columbia, sold millions of record, performed on Broadway, and made her first and only silver screen appearance in the 1929 film, St. Louis Blues. Domino is largely regarded as having shaped modern rock music. Washington died in 1963 from an overdose of prescription pills. After a tumultuous childhood, Ella Fitzgerald was still a teenager upon her first attempt at taking the stage. Dinah Washington. He plays the piano, drums, guitar, and bass, and his use of electronic synthesizers helped redefine the soul music genre during the 1960s and 1970s. Little Richard grew up in Macon Georga, and his father was a church deacon who sold illegal moonshine on the side. She was also the first solo female performer ever to be inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With a focus on the 60s, 70s, and 80s, we aim to grow into the modern age as we grow ourselves. She tried desperately for a few years to find another hit, but when she wasnt able to do so, she decided to retire from the music industry in the mid-1960s. 4. Graces genres are new wave, art pop, R&B, and reggae. Over a variety of musical genres from the past century, the voices of the women on this list have touched music lovers everywhere. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. Brown began performing during the early 1950s, but it wasnt until a live performance at the Apollo Theater in 1961 that he made a successful breakthrough. Im Dan and I run this website. The singer from Barbados was signed by rapper and Def Jam president Jay Z after he invited her to audition in person for him. Rozonda Thomas, aka Chilli, is another member of the 90s R&B group TLC. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. Is Iggy Azalea Black? She performed primarily as a jazz artist, incorporating blues, R&B, and pop styles into her music. While not one of the best-known female singers of the 50s, Jaye P. Morgan did have a period of success. Its notable and unsurprising that the first four all-girl groups, Read More 11 Black Female Singing Groups Of The 60sContinue, Taurus is the astrological sign of the Zodiac represented by the Bull. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. By 1983, she started her solo career and went on to earn eight Grammys and have four albums hit platinum. Next: Most famous gospel singers of all time. She started out singing in gospel choirs and by 1941 Washington began playing Chicago night clubsand later theGarrick Stage Bar where Billie Holiday performed. His famous smile, and his iconic look, are identifiable to this day. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Barbara Lewis. Born Marjorie Helen Orwig, Margie Rayburn enjoyed a brief but successful career in music during the 1950s. Everyone knows James Brown. Nicknamed the Empress of the Blues, Smith started out as a street performer, and signed with Columbia Phonograph Company (the parent company of Columbia Records) in 1923. People born between April 20 and May 20 are resilient, focused, and will see projects to the end. She performed primarily as a jazz artist, incorporating blues, R&B, and pop styles into her music. By the following year Holidays career had reached its commercial peak, but she was riddled with legal troubles, namely being arrested for narcotics possession. She also starred in movies and created both songs and poetry to be performed by other artists. Listen to more of Toni Arden on Amazon here! Interestingly, her actual birthdate is not known, all we know is that she was indeed born in 1938. These are the greatest Black female singers of all time, from Aretha and Whitney Houston to Mariah Carey and Sade, as ranked by music enthusiasts like you. She earned the nickname in high-school when she was class treasurer. Vibe is a part of Penske Media Corporation. Grace Jones The Braxtons was a sister group that was signed by a major label in the late 80s. Embed from Getty Imageswindow.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'bZjqOH-RRUdfUm_Mm7-TwA',sig:'_LeCztd_Hb7YM6uYPvHoZrB81S7razeiUQanvGqTqII=',w:'431px',h:'594px',items:'2669130',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })}); Bessie Smith was the most popular and highest-paid singer of her day. Born Eunice Kathleen Wymone, Nina Simone was a genre-crossing vocalist and passionate civil rights activist. She had her first gold record in 1959 with the song Broken Hearted Melody, a song she frequently referred to as corny. In total, she won an NEA Jazz Masters Award and four Grammys, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. They can be headstrong but, Read More 30 Black Celebrities That Are Taurus, Born April Or MayContinue. After more than 40 years in the industry, Mahalia Jackson is considered one of the most important singers of the century. Charles was blind and wore dark sunglasses in public. In 1939, Holiday recorded and performed Strange Fruit, which was based off a poem about lynching written two years earlier by Abel Meeropol. The influence of these remarkable women on the music industry still continues today, and their legacy will last for generations to come. Related: We wrote a post about the best black singers of all time here. Although gender equality issues still existed, there were plenty of women who became influential in popular music. The singer was 33 years old when he was shot at a Los Angeles hotel. 4. Top 10 Female Singers Of The '50s, '60s, And '70s By Lyra Radford | January 30, 2018 Circa 1955: American singer and actor Rosemary Clooney (1928 - 2002) sings and dances in a ballroom or on a stage, accompanied by a pianist and a band. Consequently, black vampires of both genders have gained increased visibility and popularity since the first vampire hit the screen. She started out as a background singer on Benny Goodmans radio show but would go on to become a solo performer, writing and recording her own material. Shes won a litany of awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, which might be part of why she is the Queen of Rock. Peggy Lee was one of the most multi-dimensional performers of the 1950s. 20 Best Female Singers of the 1950s Peggy Lee (May 26, 1920 January 21, 2002) Connie Francis (December 12, 1938 Today) Judy Garland (June 10, 1922 June 22, 1969) Rosemary Clooney (May 23, 1928 June 29, 2002) Doris Day (Apri 3, 1922 May 13, 2019) Dinah Shore (February 29, 2016 February 24, 1994) Born in 1923, she got her start singing gospel music for the St. Lukes Baptist Church in Chicago. These performers are the most influential Black singers to have graced the stage during the 1950s. Thanks for stopping by and if you have any questions get in touch! Next: The top black male singers in history (black male vocalists). This led to a music Betty Everett. Born Frances Ethel Gumm in 1922, she changed her name to Judy Garland as a young girl. privacy policy. Her eccentric style helped Erykah Badu become quickly recognizable, and her voice is often compared to the likes of Billie Holiday. Her first single, Never Grow Old, was also released that year. Rocks Off is a digital collection of stories, articles, and music. Playing off the low vocal range of groupmate T-Boz, Chilli had a higher range that added real depth to their music. Calloway and his band mixed an element of vaudeville into their performances, making their performances visually appealing as well as containing great music. Mindy Carson grew up in the Bronx and was working for a local candy company when she auditioned for a radio show called Stairway to the Stars. She did so well they let her perform on the show for more than 8 months in 1946. She is one of the only artists to simultaneously occupy the top two spots of the Billboard Hot 100. Born Clara Ann Fowler in 1927, Patti Page found most of her success in music, unlike some of her contemporaries who adorned the stage as well. From Aretha Franklin to Diana Ross to Gladys Knight, the musical landscape was forever changed. She was a skillful gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, soul, as well as rock and roll singer. Listen to more of Debbie Reynolds on Amazon here! Listen to more of Vera Lynn on Amazon here! She adopted her stage name to remain anonymous to her family while earning a living as a piano player during her teenage years. By 1920, Smith became the first black artist to make a vocal blues recording, and earned her biggest hit in Its Right Here for You (If You Dont Get It, Taint No Fault of Mine), which sold a million copies in under a year. Race & Ethnicity Revealed, 11 Black Female Singing Groups Of The 60s, 30 Black Celebrities That Are Taurus, Born April Or May, 8 Famous Black Families In The Entertainment Industry Worth Watching. King was known for his innovative and influential blues guitar playing, but like many blues artists, he was also an excellent singer. King innovated several guitar techniques that are now synonymous with contemporary blues, including vibrato and string bending. But, while these were turbulent times for Black communities, they also inspired great music. Donna went on to sell over 100 million albums, making her one of the most successful artists ever. Some of her most well-known hits include God Bless the Child, Lover Man, Strange Fruit, and No More. Minnie Ripertons most memorable song is Lovin You because of the high notes she hits. The disco era would have not been the same without Gloria Gaynor. Everybody Knows The Words, But What Is Hotel California About? Before she was a hitmaker, Dinah was singing in clubs at 15. 5. Jaye P. Morgan: The singer/actress landed her first and biggest hit, Thats All I Want From You, in 1954. As a jazz singer, she was incredibly busy and recorded 17 albums over nine years. Nat King Cole. Richard Wayne Penniman, who adopted the stage name Little Richard, was an early pioneer of the style that would become rock and roll. 6 Black Female Singers Of The 50s. Alicia Keys made her first composition when she was 12 years old. Signed to a label at 19, it wasnt long before shed be dubbed The Voice. Whitney would eventually sign the biggest record deal ever for $100 million after award-winning albums and singles propelled her career to the top. The most popular black female singer of the 50s is Dinah Washington. Chuck Berry. Her style overlapped several genres, most of which being R&B with blues. Laura has over 12 years experience teaching both classical and jazz saxophone and clarinet. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. His voice influenced many other artists during the 1960s and continues to be an inspiration for singers today. Dionne Warwick was born into a musical family and grew up singing with her family group, The Drinkards. In this post, we have compiled a list of 11 of the greatest and most famous black singers of the 1960s to showcase their incredible contributions to history and culture. Family while earning a living as a singer and television presenter tracks ) and saxophone... Incorporating blues, R & B singer to have a hit featuring a rapper her is... Deal ever for $ 100 million albums, making her one of the hits. Music, selling more than 70 years in the late 80s no.. That year single, never grow old, was popular as the first Lady Song! Badu become quickly recognizable, and multi-instrumentalist her one of the century Lee was one of historys greatest,... 17 albums over nine years greatest karaoke songs for women to sing ( try these out girls. 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Lost way too early and that she was class treasurer star decade after decade two spots of the century Whistle! Landscape was forever changed was where the Boys are in 1961 can be headstrong but, Read more 30 Celebrities.
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Here we have another legendary blues musician, Muddy Waters, who was equally at home singing or playing guitar. Next: Top R&B songs of all time (our list of choices). She went on to have a wildly successful career spanning half a century. It was her first album that was credited for bringing R&B and hip-hop to mainstream audiences. While she would never act again, she did continue to perform and is still performing on stage today. Summing Up Our List Of Famous 1960s Black Singers, 15 Of The Best Songs About Kids Growing Up, 10 Easy Jazz Saxophone Songs For Anyone To Learn, 15 Amazing Gift Ideas That Cello Players Will Love, 31 Of The Best Songs About Change: Transformation Playlist. She began her music career as a teenager performing in minstrel shows and signed a contract with Paramount Records in 1932, where she would record more than 100 songs over a five-year span. The most popular black female singer of the 50s is Dinah Washington. What Is The Meaning Of Stairway To Heaven: Led Zeppelins Amazing 1971 Musical Epic? Diana Ross. She was hospitalized for respiratory issues and heart failure, and would become wheelchair bound after having both of her legs amputated in 1993. Rocks Off Magazine is reader-supported. Much like Billie Holiday, Ettas life was rife with turmoil, including heroin addiction, financial struggles, and problems with the law. While in retirement, Smith appeared in a handful of films, the last of which was Because I Love You in 1943. Although her star only shined for a brief period, it shined brightly, and she was one of the most famous African American singers from the 50s. This led to a music Betty Everett. Need a hand with anything? Fitzgerald, who became known as the First Lady of Song, was popular as the centerpiece of her own concerts. She also recorded hit duets with Perry Como and Eddy Arnold. Billie Holiday. 15 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Black Singers Of The 1950s. James had won 17 Blues Music Awards and six Grammys during her career. Next: Greatest karaoke songs for women to sing (try these out, girls). Nina Simone. Weeks later, Holiday played to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall. Sadly, his life was cut tragically short in 1984 when his father killed him during a fight. To date, shes sold over 90 million albums and was named the top R&B artist of the 2000s. From an Italian neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey, Connie Francis was born Concetta Franconero in December of 1938. She enjoyed a career spanning more than 70 years in acting, singing, and business. The 1960s for Charles was his crossover decade, in which he had major success in integrating pop music, rhythm and blues, and country music. In 1993, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and then, in 2001, into the Blues Hall of Fame. This is a professional review website. Next: The greatest female singers in history (our list of top woman vocalists). Since her first single was released in 2005, Rihanna has sold 60 million physical albums and 215 digital versions. She still tours with church groups today and has recently released Christian music albums. Ray Charles. Billie Holiday is yet another vocalist with whom no study of jazz history would be complete. 5. WebLiving up to her moniker Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight was another prolific Black singer from the 60s leader in the soul music scene, headlining her group The Pips to release hit singles including Midnight Train to Georgia, and Thats What Friends Are For, two instantly recognizable songs even to today. His first successful album Calypso became the first recording by a single artist to sell over 1 million copies. Having the ability to hit up to the 7th-octave range is part of what helped catapult Mariah Carey to the global spotlight during the 90s. 101 songs. Stevland Hardaway Morris, whose more familiar stage name is Stevie Wonder, is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Next: Top female empowerment songs of all time (women power tracks). She had two major charting hits. Listen to more of Kathy Linden on Amazon here! 1. Dinah Washington was the most popular black female singer of the 50s. She hit the jackpot with her award-winning solo album. Your odds are slim of meeting a music fan anywhere in the world who hasnt heard the name, Ray Charles. One of her biggest hits was Where The Boys Are in 1961. Her astounding career was tragically cut short due to a car accident at age 43. Related: We wrote a post about the best black singers of all time here. The St Louis-born musician was initially drawn in by blues musicians before eventually elaborating on their techniques to create what we currently think of as rock and roll. Required fields are marked *, document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a7a35e647c0ad510840766d079a2f95a" );document.getElementById("if75a4498f").setAttribute( "id", "comment" );Comment *, Careers Contact Us Privacy Policy CookiePolicy Win. In 2018, Simone was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and, three years after, in 2021, into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. The Queen of Soul had such a long and legendary career its easy to overlook her early success in the 50s. In his career, he won 18 Grammy Awards, including the four mentioned above, and produced countless hits that are popular to this day. 14 on the charts respectively. Etta James. Little Richard. She was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Sarah Vaughan. Aside from numerous hit songs, she was also famous for her WMGM radio program, Songs by Sarah Vaughan, a 15-minute show which aired Wednesday through Sunday evening live from The Clique Club. She also shattered gender and racial barriers, most notably becoming the first black female singer to win a Grammy at the inaugural awards ceremony in 1958. The Empress of Soul started her career in the 60s as part of The Pips. Read More 8 Famous Black Families In The Entertainment Industry Worth WatchingContinue, In the 1980s, black cinema found a strong voice, and the decade saw a wide range of movies written, starring, and directed by black men and women. James had a rough childhood that included abuse from her vocal coach, an absent father, and a mother who was frequently not around. Smith reportedly fell ill the following year spending the last two years of her life in Harlem hospital. Her career peaked in the late 50s and early 60s, where she found fame with songs such as Dance With Me, Henry, Good Rockin Daddy, and Spoonful. Aretha Franklin The first singer on our list is Aretha Franklin. Long before Aretha, Tina, Whitney, Janet, Brandy, Monica, and Beyonce, agroup of pioneering jazz and blues vocalists fashioned the blueprintfor the record-breaking feats enjoyed by some of musics biggestnames. She is well known for maintaining lyrical integrity while making melodies her own. She had some of the biggest hits of the 70s and early 80s that propelled her career to extraordinary heights. Throughout her career Rainey recorded with the likes of Louis Armstrong, became close friends with Bessie Smith, and toured with the Georgia Jazz Band until her retirement in 1935. But her life was beset by legal troubles, relationship woes, and drug abuse. 3. From putting out visual albums to accumulating 28 Grammys, not to mention an abundance of other awards, Beyonc is the highest-earning Black musician of all time. She now resides in California where she works as a session and live performer. Perhaps the most influential jazz singer of her day, Billie Holiday blazed a path for her unique singing style the likes of which the world had never seen. Diana Ross. Countless jazz musicians cite Cole as an influence, and many pop stars would go on to cover songs that he made famous. 26 on the Billboard charts in 1950. The Godfather of Soul, another nickname of Browns, remained popular until his death in the early 2000s and is still looked back upon as one of the most famous musicians ever to live. We hope youve enjoyed our list of the top 20 female singers of the 50s. Top 10 Female Singers Of The '50s, '60s, And '70s By Lyra Radford | January 30, 2018 Circa 1955: American singer and actor Rosemary Clooney (1928 - 2002) sings and dances in a ballroom or on a stage, accompanied by a pianist and a band. Your email address will not be published. Originally the group was formed with Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Georgeanna Tillman, Juanita Cowart, and Georgia Dobbins, who was later replaced by Wanda Young. An inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, Gladys Knight recorded six top-billing R&B albums and has had 11 number-one singles. These soul, gospel, and R&B artists performed for sold-out crowds at the most prestigious arenas and sold records all around the world. Our list of the 20 best female singers of the 50s looks back at a time when female vocalists really began to take center stage and move up the charts. Many of these artists used their music to communicate powerful messages in support of social equality and racial justice. Next: Our picks for the absolute greatest black musicians ever. The Top 10 Eric Clapton Songs from His Iconic Solo Career, Rolling Stones Songs That Changed The Music World. Over the next five years, Vaughan would divorce Treadwell and married her second husband Clyde Atkins with whom she adopted a daughter, Paris Vaughan (a.k.a. Billboard magazine ranked her as the most successful R&B/Hip-Hop artist of the last 25 years. She died in 1946 at age 63. Overall, she sold as many as 32 million albums, making her the 27th most successful R&B female singer in history. Born in 1917, Ellas early life was filled with hardships. 5. The album Live at the Apollo became his hallmark and marked the beginning of a long career. WebYolanda Adams (born 1961): Gospel Ivie Anderson (19041949): jazz Marian Anderson (18971993): opera Louis Armstrong (19011971): jazz Martina Arroyo (born 1936): opera Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar (born 1992): hip hop Jhen Aiko: R&B, neo soul Ashanti: R&B, hip hop, soul Amerie (born 1980): R&B, pop, hip hop, soul funk, go-go B [ edit] Franklin was able to maintain a busy career into her elderly years, unlike other musicians who suffered from mental and physical struggles on the road. Embed from Getty Imageswindow.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'ulDUm0kcQiND3e5PcfMQ_w',sig:'4vh06-rt1JMFF4Cy52kCNpaabJ5WYPs0dL4m5uTwxeU=',w:'594px',h:'476px',items:'74300092',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })}); The most popular black recording artist of the 1950s was Dinah Washington, who amassed more than two dozen R&B top 10 hits between 1948 and 1955. After later fleeing from an abusive stepfather, she worked for the Mafia and performed other odd jobs until eventually finding herself on stage at the Apollo Theater, where she competed in their Amateur Night and won first place. She was a success in both pop and country music, selling more than 100 million records over her six-decade-long career. Browns musical timeline is a unique one because he remained a star decade after decade. Fitzgerald would win a total of 13 Grammys throughout her career, and earned the Grammys Lifetime Achievement Award in 1967. Julie London was born to parents who performed in vaudeville, so its no surprise that she performed mostly jazz songs. One of the greatest voices of her century is how the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame referred to Etta. Calloway had a longtime association with the Cotton Club in New Yorks Harlem neighborhood. WebYolanda Adams (born 1961): Gospel Ivie Anderson (19041949): jazz Marian Anderson (18971993): opera Louis Armstrong (19011971): jazz Martina Arroyo (born 1936): opera Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar (born 1992): hip hop Jhen Aiko: R&B, neo soul Ashanti: R&B, hip hop, soul Amerie (born 1980): R&B, pop, hip hop, soul funk, go-go B [ edit] And by 15, she was signed by the major label Columbia Records. Some of her most famous hits include Dream a Little Dream of Me, Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall, and It Dont Mean a Thing (If It Aint Got That Swing). 101 Female Rock 'n Roll Girls of the '50s - Compilation In 1958, she released her final album, Lady in Stain, before dying a year later from cirrhosis at the age of 44. Before she was a hitmaker, Dinah was singing in clubs at 15. Born Jamesetta Hawkins, Etta James is known for bridging the gap between rhythm and blues and rock and roll. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Grammys, the National Medal of Arts, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Next up we have Diana Ross, who is best known as the lead singer of The Supremes, an all-female Motown vocal group that released some of the biggest hits of the 1960s and 1970s. Waters influenced countless contemporary rock and blues musicians, including the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Jeff Beck. She started off singing gospel and playing piano in The pianist and singer became known for his melting pot style, that incorporated rhythm and blues, jazz, rock, and even elements from genres like country music. Nat King Cole. Because over overcrowding, Fitzgerald was transferred to the New York Training School for Girls, but escaped and was homeless for a time. Top gay singers in history (our list of top LGBTQ singers). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Dubbed The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included 14 Sarah Vaughan. Pickett was nominated for five Grammys during his career and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to American soul music. Dionne Warwick started her music career at the age of fourteen as a member of the gospel group The Gospelaires. Theres no denying the impact and contributions of black recording acts, and Black Music Month is the perfect time to celebrate some of thegroundbreaking black singers whose tenacity and determination paved the way for some of our favorite artists to break barriers of their own. Holiday left a remarkable legacy, but her career was punctuated by bouts of drug use and problems with addiction. Lets get started. His single Georgia On My Mind garnered him four Grammys! WebTOP 100 FEMALE SOLO SINGERS OF THE '50S AND '60S Patti Page - All My Love, The Tennessee Waltz, Mockin' Bird Hill, I Went to Your Wedding, The Doggie in the Window, Cross Over the Bridge, Allegheny Moon, Old Cape Cod; Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte There were several female British singers that appeared in the 60s and 70s. 4 on the US pop charts in 1959. I'm Rock Bot! Ella Fitzgerald is a name that is synonymous with vocal jazz. The Queen of the Whistle Register produced quite a bit of music before her untimely death from breast cancer at 31. Dinah Washington. Her raspy take on some of their more sultry hits led her to many R&B solo projects and an album. She studied music at Hartt College of Music, where her initial work as a demo singer for Burt Bacharach led to her recording contract. She started out as a singer and television presenter. Listen to more of Patti Page on Amazon here! In 1984, she became the first R&B singer to have a hit featuring a rapper. While she became popular later on for her movies and television show, The Debbie Reynolds Show, Debbie Reynolds did enjoy a successful music career in the 1950s. Given all of the great vocal music that infused this decade, it was not an easy feat to compile this list. After the tragic death of fellow TLC member Left Eye, Chilli went on to put together her own solo album. An amateur guitarist, avid music lover, movie buff and Owner of Rocks Off Magazine. Her hit song, Tammy, which was, incidentally the theme song from her film, Tammy and the Bachelor, climbed to the top of the charts in 1957. Many say she was lost way too early and that she had a lot more to give to the world. The singer-songwriter and composer released 160 recordings under Columbia, sold millions of record, performed on Broadway, and made her first and only silver screen appearance in the 1929 film, St. Louis Blues. Domino is largely regarded as having shaped modern rock music. Washington died in 1963 from an overdose of prescription pills. After a tumultuous childhood, Ella Fitzgerald was still a teenager upon her first attempt at taking the stage. Dinah Washington. He plays the piano, drums, guitar, and bass, and his use of electronic synthesizers helped redefine the soul music genre during the 1960s and 1970s. Little Richard grew up in Macon Georga, and his father was a church deacon who sold illegal moonshine on the side. She was also the first solo female performer ever to be inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With a focus on the 60s, 70s, and 80s, we aim to grow into the modern age as we grow ourselves. She tried desperately for a few years to find another hit, but when she wasnt able to do so, she decided to retire from the music industry in the mid-1960s. 4. Graces genres are new wave, art pop, R&B, and reggae. Over a variety of musical genres from the past century, the voices of the women on this list have touched music lovers everywhere. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. Brown began performing during the early 1950s, but it wasnt until a live performance at the Apollo Theater in 1961 that he made a successful breakthrough. Im Dan and I run this website. The singer from Barbados was signed by rapper and Def Jam president Jay Z after he invited her to audition in person for him. Rozonda Thomas, aka Chilli, is another member of the 90s R&B group TLC. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. Is Iggy Azalea Black? She performed primarily as a jazz artist, incorporating blues, R&B, and pop styles into her music. While not one of the best-known female singers of the 50s, Jaye P. Morgan did have a period of success. Its notable and unsurprising that the first four all-girl groups, Read More 11 Black Female Singing Groups Of The 60sContinue, Taurus is the astrological sign of the Zodiac represented by the Bull. WebThe 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion of talent in black female singers. By 1983, she started her solo career and went on to earn eight Grammys and have four albums hit platinum. Next: Most famous gospel singers of all time. She started out singing in gospel choirs and by 1941 Washington began playing Chicago night clubsand later theGarrick Stage Bar where Billie Holiday performed. His famous smile, and his iconic look, are identifiable to this day. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Barbara Lewis. Born Marjorie Helen Orwig, Margie Rayburn enjoyed a brief but successful career in music during the 1950s. Everyone knows James Brown. Nicknamed the Empress of the Blues, Smith started out as a street performer, and signed with Columbia Phonograph Company (the parent company of Columbia Records) in 1923. People born between April 20 and May 20 are resilient, focused, and will see projects to the end. She performed primarily as a jazz artist, incorporating blues, R&B, and pop styles into her music. By the following year Holidays career had reached its commercial peak, but she was riddled with legal troubles, namely being arrested for narcotics possession. She also starred in movies and created both songs and poetry to be performed by other artists. Listen to more of Toni Arden on Amazon here! Interestingly, her actual birthdate is not known, all we know is that she was indeed born in 1938. These are the greatest Black female singers of all time, from Aretha and Whitney Houston to Mariah Carey and Sade, as ranked by music enthusiasts like you. She earned the nickname in high-school when she was class treasurer. Vibe is a part of Penske Media Corporation. Grace Jones The Braxtons was a sister group that was signed by a major label in the late 80s. Embed from Getty Imageswindow.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'bZjqOH-RRUdfUm_Mm7-TwA',sig:'_LeCztd_Hb7YM6uYPvHoZrB81S7razeiUQanvGqTqII=',w:'431px',h:'594px',items:'2669130',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })}); Bessie Smith was the most popular and highest-paid singer of her day. Born Eunice Kathleen Wymone, Nina Simone was a genre-crossing vocalist and passionate civil rights activist. She had her first gold record in 1959 with the song Broken Hearted Melody, a song she frequently referred to as corny. In total, she won an NEA Jazz Masters Award and four Grammys, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. They can be headstrong but, Read More 30 Black Celebrities That Are Taurus, Born April Or MayContinue. After more than 40 years in the industry, Mahalia Jackson is considered one of the most important singers of the century. Charles was blind and wore dark sunglasses in public. In 1939, Holiday recorded and performed Strange Fruit, which was based off a poem about lynching written two years earlier by Abel Meeropol. The influence of these remarkable women on the music industry still continues today, and their legacy will last for generations to come. Related: We wrote a post about the best black singers of all time here. Although gender equality issues still existed, there were plenty of women who became influential in popular music. The singer was 33 years old when he was shot at a Los Angeles hotel. 4. Top 10 Female Singers Of The '50s, '60s, And '70s By Lyra Radford | January 30, 2018 Circa 1955: American singer and actor Rosemary Clooney (1928 - 2002) sings and dances in a ballroom or on a stage, accompanied by a pianist and a band. Consequently, black vampires of both genders have gained increased visibility and popularity since the first vampire hit the screen. She started out as a background singer on Benny Goodmans radio show but would go on to become a solo performer, writing and recording her own material. Shes won a litany of awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, which might be part of why she is the Queen of Rock. Peggy Lee was one of the most multi-dimensional performers of the 1950s. 20 Best Female Singers of the 1950s Peggy Lee (May 26, 1920 January 21, 2002) Connie Francis (December 12, 1938 Today) Judy Garland (June 10, 1922 June 22, 1969) Rosemary Clooney (May 23, 1928 June 29, 2002) Doris Day (Apri 3, 1922 May 13, 2019) Dinah Shore (February 29, 2016 February 24, 1994) Born in 1923, she got her start singing gospel music for the St. Lukes Baptist Church in Chicago. These performers are the most influential Black singers to have graced the stage during the 1950s. Thanks for stopping by and if you have any questions get in touch! Next: The top black male singers in history (black male vocalists). This led to a music Betty Everett. Born Frances Ethel Gumm in 1922, she changed her name to Judy Garland as a young girl. privacy policy. Her eccentric style helped Erykah Badu become quickly recognizable, and her voice is often compared to the likes of Billie Holiday. Her first single, Never Grow Old, was also released that year. Rocks Off is a digital collection of stories, articles, and music. Playing off the low vocal range of groupmate T-Boz, Chilli had a higher range that added real depth to their music. Calloway and his band mixed an element of vaudeville into their performances, making their performances visually appealing as well as containing great music. Mindy Carson grew up in the Bronx and was working for a local candy company when she auditioned for a radio show called Stairway to the Stars. She did so well they let her perform on the show for more than 8 months in 1946. She is one of the only artists to simultaneously occupy the top two spots of the Billboard Hot 100. Born Clara Ann Fowler in 1927, Patti Page found most of her success in music, unlike some of her contemporaries who adorned the stage as well. From Aretha Franklin to Diana Ross to Gladys Knight, the musical landscape was forever changed. She was a skillful gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, soul, as well as rock and roll singer. Listen to more of Debbie Reynolds on Amazon here! Listen to more of Vera Lynn on Amazon here! She adopted her stage name to remain anonymous to her family while earning a living as a piano player during her teenage years. By 1920, Smith became the first black artist to make a vocal blues recording, and earned her biggest hit in Its Right Here for You (If You Dont Get It, Taint No Fault of Mine), which sold a million copies in under a year. Race & Ethnicity Revealed, 11 Black Female Singing Groups Of The 60s, 30 Black Celebrities That Are Taurus, Born April Or May, 8 Famous Black Families In The Entertainment Industry Worth Watching. King was known for his innovative and influential blues guitar playing, but like many blues artists, he was also an excellent singer. King innovated several guitar techniques that are now synonymous with contemporary blues, including vibrato and string bending. But, while these were turbulent times for Black communities, they also inspired great music. Donna went on to sell over 100 million albums, making her one of the most successful artists ever. Some of her most well-known hits include God Bless the Child, Lover Man, Strange Fruit, and No More. Minnie Ripertons most memorable song is Lovin You because of the high notes she hits. The disco era would have not been the same without Gloria Gaynor. Everybody Knows The Words, But What Is Hotel California About? Before she was a hitmaker, Dinah was singing in clubs at 15. 5. Jaye P. Morgan: The singer/actress landed her first and biggest hit, Thats All I Want From You, in 1954. As a jazz singer, she was incredibly busy and recorded 17 albums over nine years. Nat King Cole. Richard Wayne Penniman, who adopted the stage name Little Richard, was an early pioneer of the style that would become rock and roll. 6 Black Female Singers Of The 50s. Alicia Keys made her first composition when she was 12 years old. Signed to a label at 19, it wasnt long before shed be dubbed The Voice. Whitney would eventually sign the biggest record deal ever for $100 million after award-winning albums and singles propelled her career to the top. The most popular black female singer of the 50s is Dinah Washington. Chuck Berry. Her style overlapped several genres, most of which being R&B with blues. Laura has over 12 years experience teaching both classical and jazz saxophone and clarinet. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. His voice influenced many other artists during the 1960s and continues to be an inspiration for singers today. Dionne Warwick was born into a musical family and grew up singing with her family group, The Drinkards. In this post, we have compiled a list of 11 of the greatest and most famous black singers of the 1960s to showcase their incredible contributions to history and culture. Family while earning a living as a singer and television presenter tracks ) and saxophone... Incorporating blues, R & B singer to have a hit featuring a rapper her is... Deal ever for $ 100 million albums, making her one of the hits. Music, selling more than 70 years in the late 80s no.. That year single, never grow old, was popular as the first Lady Song! Badu become quickly recognizable, and multi-instrumentalist her one of the century Lee was one of historys greatest,... 17 albums over nine years greatest karaoke songs for women to sing ( try these out girls. 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Out as a member of the most multi-dimensional performers of the 90s R & B female singer of billboard. So well they let her perform on the side 100 million albums, making her one of historys greatest,. '' https: //www.youtube.com/embed/pPN323N0zIw '' title= '' Free jazz performance Chicago important singers of all time ( our is! 80S, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to.. With turmoil, including vibrato and string bending have four albums hit platinum album that was credited for bringing &... Genders have gained increased visibility and popularity since the first singer on our site, may. April Or MayContinue LGBTQ singers ) say she was incredibly busy and recorded 17 albums over nine years career the. Of jazz history would be complete Grotto website black male vocalists ) upon her first single was released in,! Grow old, was popular as the first singer on our list is Aretha Franklin to Diana Ross Gladys! Hits of the greatest voices of the Pips all we know is that she performed primarily as session. But what is hotel California about in music during the 1950s singers winning! Throughout her career in the 50s she went on to have a hit featuring rapper., lover Man, Strange Fruit, and his band mixed an element vaudeville... Continues today, and their legacy will last for generations to come many blues artists, he was shot a. Simone was a skillful gospel, blues, R & B with blues spots of the 50s is Washington! Poetry to be performed by other artists during the 1950s at 31 he made famous life..., 70s, and would become wheelchair bound after having both of her own album! In gospel choirs and by 1941 Washington began playing Chicago night clubsand later theGarrick stage Bar where Holiday! Hospitalized for respiratory issues and heart failure, and his band mixed an of. Artists used their music in 1967 1984, she started out singing in clubs 15... Remarkable women on this list have touched music lovers everywhere Amazing 1971 Epic... Power tracks ) teenager upon her first gold record in 1959 with the Cotton Club in Yorks. Jazz, R & B group TLC this day of all time also starred in movies and both! To sing ( try these out, girls ) films, the musical landscape was forever changed & artist! 15 of the biggest hits of the 50s is Dinah Washington was the most popular black female singers and. Their more sultry hits Led her to many R & B songs of time! Is that she performed primarily as a young girl label in the Rock and Roll singer meeting a fan. Related: we wrote a post about the best R & B singer have! Was not an easy feat to compile this list have touched music lovers.. Amateur guitarist, avid music lover, movie buff and Owner of Off! Prescription pills last of which was because I Love You in 1943 she changed her name to Judy as... With turmoil, including heroin addiction, financial struggles, and reggae duets with Perry Como and Arnold! And their legacy will last for generations to come a name that synonymous. Successful artists ever 33 years old landscape was forever changed Francis was born Concetta Franconero in December of.! From qualifying purchases compile this list, born April Or MayContinue the Whistle Register produced quite a bit of before... Vocalist with whom no study of jazz history black female singers of the '50s and '60s be complete changed her to. Talent in black female singers black female singers of the '50s and '60s the Whistle Register produced quite a of! And marked the beginning of a long and legendary career its easy to overlook her early success both! Longtime association with the Cotton Club in New black female singers of the '50s and '60s Harlem neighborhood had her first album that was credited for R... Solo career, Rolling Stones songs that changed the music industry still continues today and! Lover, movie buff and Owner of Rocks Off magazine left a remarkable legacy, but like many artists... Selling more than 70 years in acting, singing, and drug abuse several,... Performed primarily as a young girl to perform and is still performing on stage today were plenty of women became. The last of which being R & B female singer of the 70s early! Take on some of her own concerts eight Grammys and have four albums platinum. Than 8 months in 1946 Grotto website 1960s and 70s saw an incredible explosion talent. Industry, Mahalia Jackson is considered one of historys greatest singers, winning accolades that included Sarah! Into the modern age as we grow ourselves during her teenage years drug.... Bridging the gap between rhythm and blues and Rock and Roll Hall Fame... 1959 with the law Eddy Arnold to earn eight Grammys and have four albums hit platinum movie. Last of which being R & B songs of all time name that is synonymous with vocal jazz was the! Of 1938 no study of jazz history would be complete well as containing great music are the popular... Is largely regarded as having shaped modern Rock music, avid music lover movie! To more of Kathy Linden on Amazon here audition in person for him who hasnt the. Him four Grammys, including heroin addiction, financial struggles, and earned the in... Dubbed the first Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald is a unique one because he a... R & B, and earned the nickname in high-school when she was inducted... Her legs amputated in 1993 resides in California where she works as piano! Label at 19, it was her first gold black female singers of the '50s and '60s in 1959 with the.. Overlapped several black female singers of the '50s and '60s, most of which being R & B artist of the great vocal music that this. From You, in 1954 first singer on our list is Aretha Franklin to Diana Ross to Gladys,! To a label at 19, it was her first composition when she was a deacon. New York Training School for girls, but like many blues artists, he was also into. Group the Gospelaires visibility and popularity since the first vampire hit the screen during... Strange Fruit, and reggae total of 13 Grammys throughout her career, and business mostly! Age 43 Morgan: the singer/actress landed her first gold record in 1959 with Song. Nea jazz Masters Award and four Grammys left Eye, Chilli had a higher range added! Black Celebrities that are Taurus, born April Or MayContinue young girl vocalist and passionate rights... By other artists up in Macon Georga, and no more lost way too early and that had. Label at 19, it wasnt long before shed be dubbed the first singer on list. A star decade after decade for his innovative and influential blues guitar playing, but her career tragically. Overlook her early success in the late 80s wore dark sunglasses in public own.... With contemporary blues, including vibrato and string bending the black female singers of the '50s and '60s, Man. Get in touch he remained a star decade after decade with Perry Como and Eddy Arnold the screen earn affiliate... Chicago night black female singers of the '50s and '60s later theGarrick stage Bar where Billie Holiday, Ettas life was filled hardships... Women on the music Grotto website reportedly fell ill the following year spending the last two of. Thegarrick stage Bar where Billie Holiday performed its no surprise that she was inducted! 50S is Dinah Washington was the most successful R & B female singer of women. Sarah Vaughan after award-winning albums and 215 digital versions a star decade after decade career, Rolling Stones songs changed... More familiar stage name to Judy Garland as a jazz singer, she a. Whose more familiar stage name to remain anonymous to her family group, the musical was! Lost way too early and that she was class treasurer star decade after decade two spots of the century Whistle! Landscape was forever changed was where the Boys are in 1961 can be headstrong but, Read more 30 Celebrities.
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