This week, The Viking Diaries Outloud is celebrating an extraordinary lineup of black artists who have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Should this show have aired during Black History Month? Absolutely. Was I organised enough to *make* that happen? Clearly NOT. But Black History Month is way too short anyway … especially when it comes to music! So this week’s playlist features legendary talents like Roberta Flack, Jay-Z paired with Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, Prince, The Jackson 5 and En Vogue.
One of the late Roberta Flack’s signature songs will kick off the show. Her influence can be seen in contemporary artists who strive to bring emotional depth and storytelling to their performances.
I’ll also play Jay-Z, one of the greatest rappers of all time, and Alicia Keys, a powerhouse vocalist and pianist, who joined forces to create an anthem that captures the essence of New York City and has become a symbol of ambition and success. Can you guess what it is?
We’ll also hear Jay-Z’s better half, Beyoncé, both as a solo artist and the most consistently present member of Destiny’s Child. She’s basically a force of nature in the music industry, known for her powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and unyielding work ethic. The success of Destiny’s Child in the late 1990s and early 2000s laid the groundwork for other girl groups and female artists in the industry.
Prince was, of course, a musical genius who blurred the lines between genres and pushed the boundaries of creativity. His innovative style and fearless experimentation continue to inspire musicians to explore new sounds and artistic expressions today.
The Jackson 5, featuring a young Michael Jackson, took the world by storm with their infectious energy and undeniable talent when they debuted 50 years ago. Their success in the 1970s set the stage for Michael Jackson’s legendary solo career and inspired generations of performers.
We’ll also hear from En Vogue, one of the most successful female vocal groups of the 1990s, known for their powerful harmonies. I’m going to play a standout track that highlights their vocal prowess and emotional depth. Like Destiny’s Child, En Vogue’s influence on the music industry is evident in the many girl groups and female artists who have followed in their footsteps.
I hope you’ll join me on this musical journey to celebrate the legacy and influence of these incredible artists, because Black History Month was just too darn short!