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Black country music has a rich and storied history, and has produced some of the most iconic and influential artists of all time. From the soulful sounds of Ray Charles, to the twangy guitar licks of Charley Pride, to the powerhouse vocals of Whitney Houston, black country singers have left an indelible mark on the genre. With their unique blend of blues, gospel, and country, these artists have created music that speaks to the soul and touches the heart.
In this article, we will explore the top 18 songs about famous black country singers. These songs celebrate the contributions of black country artists, and pay tribute to the rich legacy of black country music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre, or just discovering it for the first time, these songs are sure to inspire and uplift. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey through the history of black country music, and the incredible artists who have helped shape it.
1. Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X, born Montero Lamar Hill, is a Grammy-winning rapper, singer, and songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia. He first gained attention with his viral hit “Old Town Road” in 2019, which blended elements of country and hip-hop and became a chart-topping sensation. Lil Nas X is known for his unique style, incorporating elements of country, rap, and pop into his music, and for his bold and often controversial public persona. He is openly gay and has used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the music industry. In addition to “Old Town Road,” Lil Nas X has released a number of popular singles and collaborated with other high-profile artists such as Billy Ray Cyrus and Cardi B. He is also known for his eye-catching fashion choices and has been featured in campaigns for brands such as Calvin Klein and Christian Cowan. With his boundary-pushing music and fearless attitude, Lil Nas X has become a cultural icon and a powerful voice in the world of music.
2. Darius Rucker
Darius Rucker is a Grammy-winning singer and songwriter from Charleston, South Carolina. He first gained fame as the lead vocalist for the rock band Hootie & the Blowfish, but later transitioned to a successful solo career in country music. Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Rucker has released numerous hit singles, including “Wagon Wheel,” “Alright,” and “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It.” He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, including his work with the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the USO. In addition to his music career, Rucker is also an avid sports fan and has been involved in various charity events and organizations related to sports. With his talent, generosity, and infectious charisma, Darius Rucker has become a beloved figure in the world of music and beyond.
3. Charley Pride
Charley Pride was a trailblazing country singer and musician from Sledge, Mississippi. He is considered a pioneer in the genre, as one of the first black artists to achieve mainstream success in country music. Over the course of his career, Pride released dozens of albums and chart-topping singles, including “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” and “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone.” He also won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award in 1971. Pride was known for his smooth baritone voice and his ability to infuse his music with elements of gospel and blues. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 86, but his legacy as a trailblazer and icon in country music lives on.
4. Mickey Guyton
Mickey Guyton is a rising country music star from Arlington, Texas. She is known for her powerful vocals and her willingness to tackle difficult social issues in her music, including racism and discrimination. Guyton has released a number of successful singles, including “Black Like Me” and “Heartbreak Song,” and has been nominated for multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Country Solo Performance. She has also been recognized for her advocacy work, including her involvement with the Black Music Action Coalition and her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the music industry. With her talent, determination, and commitment to social justice, Mickey Guyton is a powerful voice in country music and a role model for aspiring artists and activists alike.
5. Rhiannon Giddens
Rhiannon Giddens is a Grammy-winning American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for her powerful vocals and eclectic musical style. With roots in folk, blues, gospel, and traditional African American music, Giddens seamlessly blends genres to create a unique sound that is both deeply rooted in history and refreshingly modern.
Born in North Carolina, Giddens first gained recognition as a founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a group that revived and reimagined traditional African American string band music. Since then, she has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several critically acclaimed albums that showcase her impressive range and versatility as a performer.
Giddens is a masterful storyteller, using her music to explore themes of history, race, and identity. Her lyrics are often deeply personal, reflecting her own experiences and the experiences of those around her. She is also a skilled instrumentalist, playing a variety of instruments including banjo, fiddle, and guitar.
In addition to her music career, Giddens is a passionate advocate for social justice and has used her platform to speak out on issues such as police brutality and immigration reform. She is also a scholar of African American music and history and has worked to preserve and promote traditional music through her work with organizations such as the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings.
Overall, Rhiannon Giddens is a remarkable artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music and beyond. Her powerful voice and poignant lyrics have touched the hearts of many, and her dedication to social justice and cultural preservation make her an important voice in the modern world.
6. Cleve Francis
Cleve Francis is an American country music singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born and raised in Georgia, Francis originally pursued a career in medicine, working as a cardiologist for several years before turning to music full-time.
Francis burst onto the country music scene in the late 1980s with his debut album, “Finer Things in Life,” which featured the hit single “Love Light.” His smooth, rich voice and emotionally charged lyrics quickly won him a loyal following, and he went on to release several more successful albums over the next decade.
Francis is known for his ability to blend elements of traditional country music with pop and R&B influences, creating a sound that is both contemporary and timeless. His songs often deal with universal themes such as love, loss, and perseverance, and he is praised for his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
In addition to his music career, Francis is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting a variety of charitable causes including cancer research, children’s healthcare, and animal welfare. He has also been recognized for his advocacy work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community and is widely regarded as an important voice for equality and inclusivity.
Overall, Cleve Francis is a talented and compassionate artist who has made a significant impact on both the country music world and the broader community. His music continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages and backgrounds, and his commitment to making a positive difference in the world is truly admirable.
7. Kane Brown
Kane Brown is an American singer and songwriter known for his distinctive voice and blend of country, pop, and R&B influences. Born and raised in Georgia, Brown first gained attention as a social media star, posting cover songs on YouTube and Facebook that quickly went viral.
Brown’s self-titled debut album was released in 2016 and quickly topped the Billboard Country charts, thanks in part to the success of hit singles such as “What Ifs” and “Heaven.” Since then, he has continued to be a dominant force in the country music world, releasing several more successful albums and collaborating with other popular artists.
Known for his smooth, soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Brown has been praised for his ability to connect with fans on a deeply personal level. His songs often deal with universal themes such as love, family, and faith, and his lyrics are frequently autobiographical, reflecting his own life experiences.
In addition to his music career, Brown is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting a variety of causes including veterans’ organizations and disaster relief efforts. He is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about his struggles with anxiety and depression.
Overall, Kane Brown is a talented and versatile artist who has made a significant impact on the country music world and beyond. His unique sound and relatable lyrics have won him a loyal following, and his commitment to using his platform for good is truly admirable.
8. Ray Charles
Ray Charles was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his groundbreaking contributions to soul, R&B, and jazz music. Born in Georgia in 1930, Charles began his career as a gospel singer before branching out into secular music in the 1950s.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Charles became known for his powerful, expressive voice and innovative musical style, which combined elements of blues, jazz, gospel, and R&B. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of soul music and helped to popularize the genre with hits such as “Georgia on My Mind,” “Hit the Road Jack,” and “What’d I Say.”
In addition to his music career, Charles was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and used his platform to promote equality and justice. He was a frequent performer at benefit concerts and used his music to address social issues such as racism and poverty.
Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges throughout his life, including blindness and drug addiction, Charles continued to produce powerful and influential music until his death in 2004. He is remembered as one of the greatest musicians of all time and a true icon of American music.
9. Lesley Riddle
Lesley Riddle was an American musician and songwriter known for his contributions to the development of country music in the early 20th century. Born in North Carolina in 1905, Riddle grew up in a musical family and began playing the guitar at a young age.
Riddle is perhaps best known for his collaborations with the legendary country music performer A.P. Carter, who he met in the 1920s. Together, the two men traveled throughout the Appalachian region collecting and recording traditional folk songs that would later become classics of the country music canon.
Despite his significant contributions to the genre, Riddle’s legacy was largely overshadowed by his more famous collaborator, and he struggled with poverty and obscurity for much of his life. However, in recent years, he has begun to receive greater recognition for his pioneering work in country music, and his legacy has been celebrated through tribute concerts and other events.
Overall, Lesley Riddle was a gifted musician and songwriter whose contributions helped to shape the early development of country music. His dedication to preserving traditional folk songs and his collaborations with some of the genre’s most legendary figures have left an indelible mark on American music history.
10. Carolina Chocolate Drops
Carolina Chocolate Drops is an American string band known for their unique blend of traditional African-American music and contemporary influences. Formed in 2005 in North Carolina, the group consists of multi-instrumentalists and vocalists Rhiannon Giddens, Dom Flemons, and Leyla McCalla.
The band’s music is rooted in the rich history of African-American musical traditions, including blues, folk, and string band music. However, they also incorporate elements of contemporary genres such as hip-hop and rock, creating a sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
Over the course of their career, Carolina Chocolate Drops has won numerous awards and critical acclaim for their powerful and moving performances. They have been praised for their ability to bring new life to traditional songs and for their commitment to preserving and celebrating African-American musical heritage.
In addition to their music career, members of the band have also been involved in a variety of social justice and activism efforts, using their platform to raise awareness about issues such as racial inequality and police brutality.
Overall, Carolina Chocolate Drops is a talented and innovative musical group that has made a significant impact on the contemporary music scene. Their unique sound and commitment to preserving and celebrating African-American musical traditions make them an important and inspiring presence in American music.
11. Cowboy Troy
Cowboy Troy is an American country rapper known for blending traditional country music with hip-hop and rap influences. Born in Texas in 1970, he began his music career as a DJ before branching out into performing and recording his own music.
Troy’s unique style of country rap has won him a dedicated following and critical acclaim within the country music community. His music incorporates elements of both genres, with lyrics that reflect on life in rural America and a sound that draws on both the traditional twang of country music and the hard-driving beats of hip-hop.
In addition to his music career, Troy has also been involved in a variety of other projects, including hosting a country music-themed radio show and appearing in films and television shows. He has become known for his distinctive look, which includes a cowboy hat, bandana, and oversized belt buckle.
Overall, Cowboy Troy is a talented and innovative artist who has made a significant contribution to the evolution of country music. His unique blend of country and hip-hop influences has won him legions of fans and established him as an important figure in contemporary American music.
12. Trini Triggs
Trini Triggs is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his deep, soulful voice and traditional sound. Born in Louisiana in 1963, Triggs began his music career in the 1990s and quickly gained a following within the country music community.
Triggs’ music draws heavily on traditional country influences, with a sound that is reminiscent of classic artists such as Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life, and his distinctive voice brings a sense of authenticity and sincerity to his music.
Over the course of his career, Triggs has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. He has also become known for his dynamic live performances, which showcase his powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.
Overall, Trini Triggs is a talented and accomplished country music artist whose music reflects a deep love and respect for the genre’s rich history and traditions. His soulful voice and timeless sound have won him a dedicated following and established him as one of the most respected performers in contemporary country music.
13. Petrella
Petrella Ann Bonner is an American country music singer and songwriter. Born and raised in Alabama, she began her music career in the mid-2010s, and quickly gained a following within the country music community.
Petrella’s music draws on a wide range of influences, including traditional country, blues, and rock, and her songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. Her soulful, emotive voice brings a sense of authenticity and sincerity to her music, and her performances are marked by a deep emotional intensity.
Over the course of her career, Petrella has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. She has become known for her dynamic live performances, which showcase her powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.
Overall, Petrella Ann Bonner is a talented and charismatic artist whose music reflects a deep love and respect for the traditions of country music. Her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics have won her a dedicated following and established her as one of the most exciting performers in contemporary country music.
14. Miko Mark
Miko Marks is an American country music singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and deeply personal lyrics. Born in Flint, Michigan, Marks moved to California in the 1990s to pursue a career in music, and quickly gained a following within the country music community.
Marks’ music draws on a wide range of influences, including gospel, blues, and traditional country music. Her songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the challenges of everyday life, and her distinctive voice brings a sense of authenticity and emotional depth to her music.
Over the course of her career, Marks has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. She has become known for her dynamic live performances, which showcase her powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.
In addition to her music career, Marks has also been involved in a variety of social justice and activism efforts, using her platform to raise awareness about issues such as racial inequality and police brutality.
Overall, Miko Marks is a talented and passionate artist whose music reflects a deep commitment to social justice and personal expression. Her powerful voice and moving lyrics have won her a dedicated following and established her as an important voice in contemporary country music.
15. Aaron Neville
Aaron Neville is an American R&B and soul singer known for his distinctive, high-pitched voice and his smooth, soulful sound. Born in Louisiana in 1941, Neville began his music career in the 1960s as part of the group The Neville Brothers, before branching out into a successful solo career.
Neville’s music draws on a wide range of influences, including gospel, blues, and jazz, and his unique voice brings a sense of emotional depth and vulnerability to his performances. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life, and his music has won him legions of fans around the world.
Over the course of his career, Neville has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. He has also collaborated with a wide range of other artists, including Linda Ronstadt, Willie Nelson, and Dr. John, and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music.
Overall, Aaron Neville is a legendary artist whose music continues to inspire and move audiences around the world. His unique voice and soulful sound have made him an important figure in American music, and his legacy as one of the greatest R&B singers of all time is secure.
16. Carl Ray
Carl Ray is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his smooth, soulful voice and his powerful, emotional lyrics. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Ray began his music career in the 2000s, and quickly gained a following within the country music community.
Ray’s music draws on a wide range of influences, including classic country, R&B, and soul, and his songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. His soulful voice brings a sense of authenticity and sincerity to his music, and his performances are marked by a deep emotional intensity.
Over the course of his career, Ray has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. He has also become known for his dynamic live performances, which showcase his powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.
Overall, Carl Ray is a talented and passionate artist whose music reflects a deep love and respect for the traditions of country music. His soulful voice and emotional lyrics have won him a dedicated following and established him as one of the most exciting performers in contemporary country music.
17. Jimmie Allen
Jimmie Allen is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his catchy, upbeat sound and his heartfelt, relatable lyrics. Born and raised in Delaware, Allen moved to Nashville in the early 2010s to pursue a career in music, and quickly gained a following within the country music community.
Allen’s music draws on a wide range of influences, including pop, R&B, and hip-hop, and his songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. His smooth, soulful voice brings a sense of authenticity and sincerity to his music, and his performances are marked by a deep emotional intensity.
Over the course of his career, Allen has released several albums and singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. He has become known for his dynamic live performances, which showcase his powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.
Overall, Jimmie Allen is a talented and charismatic artist whose music reflects a deep love and respect for the traditions of country music. His upbeat sound and heartfelt lyrics have won him a dedicated following and established him as one of the most exciting performers in contemporary country music.
18. Breland
Breland is an American singer, rapper, and songwriter known for his unique blend of country and hip-hop music. Born in New Jersey and raised in Atlanta, Breland began his music career in the mid-2010s, and quickly gained a following within the music industry.
Breland’s music draws on a wide range of influences, including country, hip-hop, R&B, and pop, and his songs often explore themes of love, relationships, and identity. His smooth, soulful voice brings a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to his music, and his performances are marked by a deep emotional intensity.
Over the course of his career, Breland has released several hit singles that have won critical acclaim and commercial success. He has also become known for his dynamic live performances, which showcase his unique sound and engaging stage presence.
Overall, Breland is a talented and innovative artist whose music reflects a deep love and respect for a variety of musical genres. His unique blend of country and hip-hop has won him a dedicated following and established him as one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary music.