Famous American Soul Singers

Alicia Keys is an American singer and songwriter known for her soulful voice and powerful songwriting skills. She began her career at a young age, signing with Columbia Records at 15 and achieving critical acclaim with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor." Throughout her career, she has released multiple successful albums, won numerous awards, and collaborated with other top artists. Keys is also recognized for her philanthropic efforts, including co-founding the nonprofit organization Keep a Child Alive to fight HIV/AIDS.

Marvin Gaye was an influential American soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and musician who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Motown in the 1960s. He started as an in-house session player before becoming a successful solo artist with hits like "Ain't That Peculiar" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." Breaking away from Motown's production company in the 1970s, Gaye recorded acclaimed albums like "What's Going On" and "Let's Get It On," influencing R&B subgenres like quiet storm and neo soul. His career culminated in winning Grammy Awards for songs like "Sexual Healing" before his tragic death in 1984.

James Brown was an influential American singer, dancer, and musician, known as the "King of Soul" and the "Godfather of Soul." He rose to fame in the mid-1950s as the lead singer of the Famous Flames, achieving success with hit ballads like "Please, Please, Please" and "Try Me." In the 1960s, he reached the peak of his career with albums like Live at the Apollo and hit singles such as "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "I Got You (I Feel Good)." Brown transitioned to a funk sound in the late 1960s, producing socially conscious songs like "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud." He continued to record and perform until his passing in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Jhené Aiko is an American R&B singer-songwriter and rapper based in Los Angeles. She began her music career in 2002 as a backing vocalist for R&B group B2K before pursuing her solo career. Aiko released her first full-length project in 2011 and gained mainstream recognition with her collaboration on Big Sean's single "Beware." Her debut studio album, "Souled Out," was well-received, followed by successful releases of her second and third albums, "Trip" and "Chilombo," which earned her multiple Grammy Award nominations.

John Legend is a renowned American singer, songwriter, pianist, record producer, and actor with a successful career spanning several decades. He gained recognition for his soulful music and powerful vocals, achieving multiple Grammy Awards for his albums and singles. Legend's collaborations with notable artists and his work across various genres have solidified his status as a versatile and influential figure in the music industry. Additionally, his achievements in acting, Broadway productions, and television have further showcased his talent and versatility as an entertainer.

Diana Ross is an iconic American singer and actress known for her groundbreaking success both as a member of The Supremes and as a solo artist. She achieved chart-topping success with hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Endless Love." Ross also made a mark in the film industry with acclaimed roles in movies such as "Lady Sings the Blues" and "The Wiz." Her achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Ray Charles Robinson Sr. was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known as "The Genius" and "Brother Ray". Blinded in childhood, he revolutionized music by blending blues, jazz, rhythm and blues, and gospel into soul music. He achieved crossover success in the 1960s, integrating country, R&B, and pop. With hits like "Georgia on My Mind" and albums like Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, he topped charts and influenced artists like Quincy Jones. Ray Charles received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Christopher Alvin Stapleton is an accomplished American country singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his prolific songwriting collaborations and powerful vocal performances. After moving to Nashville to pursue music, he co-wrote numerous hit songs for top country artists before rising to fame as a solo artist. Stapleton's debut album "Traveller" achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, leading to multiple Grammy Awards. With a string of successful albums and countless accolades, he has solidified his position as one of the most respected figures in country music.

Jennifer Hudson is a multi-talented American singer, actress, and television personality. She achieved EGOT status in 2022, being the youngest woman and third African-American to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award. Rising to fame on American Idol in 2004, she released successful albums and starred in hit films like Dreamgirls, winning an Academy Award. Hudson has also appeared in various acting roles, on TV shows, and as a coach on The Voice, showcasing her versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.

Stevie Wonder, an American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer, is a highly acclaimed and influential figure in the music industry. Known for his pioneering work across various genres such as R&B, pop, soul, and jazz, Wonder reshaped contemporary R&B in the 1970s with his innovative use of synthesizers. His critical success peaked in the 1970s with Grammy-winning albums like "Innervisions" and "Songs in the Key of Life." A commercial success in the 1980s, Wonder is renowned for his activism and has received numerous accolades, including 25 Grammy Awards.

Donna Summer, known as the "Queen of Disco," was an American singer and songwriter who rose to fame during the 1970s disco era. She collaborated with music producers Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte, releasing influential disco hits like "Love to Love You Baby" and "I Feel Love." Summer achieved remarkable success on the US Billboard charts, with multiple top-10 and number-one singles. She made significant contributions to electronic dance music and remained a prominent figure in the music industry until her passing in 2012.

Teddy Pendergrass was an American soul and R&B singer-songwriter known for his successful professional career. He initially gained fame as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes before launching a solo career under the Philadelphia International label. Pendergrass released five consecutive platinum albums, setting a record for an African-American R&B artist at the time. His career was interrupted by a car crash in 1982 that left him paralyzed from the chest down, but he continued to achieve success until his retirement in 2007. He passed away in 2010 from respiratory failure.

Vanessa Williams is a versatile American entertainer known for her accomplishments in singing, acting, modeling, producing, and dancing. She made history as the first Black woman to be crowned Miss America in 1984, later resigning due to a controversial photo scandal. Despite this setback, Williams achieved success as a singer with hit singles like "Save the Best for Last" and successful albums like The Right Stuff and The Comfort Zone. As an actress, she has appeared in Broadway productions and popular TV shows like Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives.

Daryl Hall is a prominent American rock, R&B, and soul singer-songwriter and musician. He is renowned as the co-founder and primary lead vocalist of the iconic duo Hall & Oates, alongside guitarist and songwriter John Oates. With a successful solo career, Hall has released five solo albums, notably collaborating with guitarist Robert Fripp on the progressive rock album "Sacred Songs." Inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Hall also hosts the popular streaming series "Live from Daryl's House," showcasing his musical talent alongside various artists.

Isaac Hayes Jr. was a versatile American musician known for his contributions to Southern soul music label Stax Records. He was a prolific songwriter, composer, and record producer, collaborating with David Porter on hits for various artists. Hayes achieved success as a recording artist with albums like Hot Buttered Soul and Black Moses. He also gained acclaim for his work as a composer for films, notably winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the iconic "Theme from Shaft." Hayes was recognized for his humanitarian efforts and received numerous awards for his influential musical contributions.

Minnie Riperton was an American soul singer and songwriter known for her incredible vocal range and use of the whistle register. She began her career singing with various established artists and later joined the psychedelic soul band Rotary Connection. Riperton achieved chart-topping success with her hit single "Lovin' You" in 1975. Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1976, she continued to record and tour, becoming a prominent figure in raising awareness about the disease. Riperton passed away in 1979 at the age of 31.

David Ruffin was an American soul singer known for his work as a lead vocalist for the Temptations during their "Classic Five" period. He contributed his distinctive raspy and anguished tenor vocals to hit songs like "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." Ruffin also achieved success as a solo artist with top-ten singles such as "My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)" and "Walk Away from Love." His talent was recognized with inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and rankings among the greatest singers by Rolling Stone magazine.

Bobby Brown is an American singer and rapper known for his pioneering work in new jack swing, a blend of hip hop and R&B. He started his career in the group New Edition before achieving solo success with his album "Don't Be Cruel" in 1988. The album produced multiple top 10 singles and earned him a Grammy Award. Despite his next album "Bobby" achieving platinum status, it did not match the success of his previous work. Brown also appeared in movies and reunited with New Edition for tours.

Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his successful solo career that took off in 1976 with the release of his album Silk Degrees. This album produced hit singles like "Lido Shuffle" and "Lowdown," leading to further success with platinum-certified albums Down Two Then Left and Middle Man. Scaggs took a hiatus in the 1980s but returned in 1988, continuing to record and tour. He played a significant role in the formation of Toto and has maintained close collaborations with its members over the years.

Macy Gray is an accomplished American R&B and soul singer, actress, and songwriter known for her unique raspy voice and soulful singing style reminiscent of Billie Holiday. Over the course of her career, she has released ten studio albums and garnered five Grammy Award nominations, winning one. Gray has also made a mark in the film industry with appearances in notable movies such as Training Day, Spider-Man, and For Colored Girls. She is particularly renowned for her international hit single "I Try" from her debut album On How Life Is. Additionally, Gray was inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014.

Jill Scott is a prominent R&B singer and actress renowned for her platinum record-selling music and soulful lyrics. Her career began with spoken word performances and she went on to collaborate with artists like Lupe Fiasco. With three Grammy Awards under her belt and multiple nominations, she has solidified her status as a music industry powerhouse. Scott's talent extends to the acting world, where she starred in Tyler Perry's film Why Did I Get Married? alongside Janet Jackson.

Roberta Flack is a retired American singer known for her chart-topping singles "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", "Killing Me Softly with His Song", and "Feel Like Makin' Love". She influenced the quiet storm subgenre of contemporary R&B and interpreted songs by acclaimed songwriters like Leonard Cohen and Beatles members. Flack made history by winning the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in two consecutive years, with "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" in 1973 and "Killing Me Softly with His Song" in 1974.

Robin Thicke is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his hit single "Blurred Lines." He has collaborated with various artists and worked on albums for Usher and Lil Wayne. Thicke has released R&B singles such as "Lost Without U" and "Magic" in the United States. He has also composed songs for Marc Anthony and appeared as a judge on the Fox musical competition show The Masked Singer. Thicke's music career is highlighted by his successful collaborations and solo releases.

Israel Houghton is a prominent figure in the American contemporary Christian music scene, known for his roles as a singer, songwriter, producer, and worship leader. He is most recognized under the moniker Israel & New Breed. Houghton has garnered acclaim for his contributions to the genre, creating impactful and inspirational music that resonates with audiences worldwide. His versatile talents have allowed him to make a significant mark in the music industry, earning him a dedicated following and numerous awards for his work.

Al B. Sure! is a multifaceted American artist recognized as a singer, songwriter, record producer, radio host, and former record executive. Rising to prominence during the late 1980s and early 1990s, he established himself as a leading figure in the new jack swing genre. With a successful career spanning various roles within the music industry, Al B. Sure! has left a lasting impact through his contributions to music production, performance, and radio hosting.

Eddie Kendricks was an American tenor singer and songwriter known for his distinctive falsetto singing style. He co-founded the Motown singing group the Temptations and was one of their lead singers from 1960 until 1971. Kendricks was the lead voice on popular songs such as "The Way You Do the Things You Do", "Get Ready", and "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)". As a solo artist, he recorded several hits during the 1970s, including the number-one singles "Keep On Truckin'" and "Boogie Down."

D'Angelo is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer known for his contributions to the neo soul movement. His debut album, "Brown Sugar," was a critical and commercial success, followed by the acclaimed album "Voodoo." Despite struggles with his image and personal issues, he made a comeback with the Grammy-winning album "Black Messiah." D'Angelo has collaborated with notable artists and continues to be recognized for his soulful music and vocal performances, with his work extending to various genres and projects.

Aaron Neville is an accomplished American R&B and soul singer known for his distinctive voice. He has achieved great success with four platinum albums and four Top 10 hits in the United States, three of which topped Billboard's Adult Contemporary chart. His 1966 hit "Tell It Like It Is" also reached number one on the Soul chart for five weeks. Neville has collaborated with his brothers in the Neville Brothers group and has made significant contributions to the music industry with his powerful vocals and soulful performances.

Taylor Dayne is an American singer known for her chart-topping hits in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She gained fame with her debut single "Tell It to My Heart" in 1987, followed by several other successful tracks like "Love Will Lead You Back" and "I'll Always Love You". Dayne has received accolades such as Grammy nominations, an American Music Award, and New York Music Awards. She has been honored in the New York Hall of Fame and recognized as one of the best female dance artists by Rolling Stone and Billboard magazine.

Bobbie Gentry is known for her successful career in the music industry, with several singles reaching high positions on the music charts. She garnered Grammy nominations for her work, and had a successful run of variety shows in Las Vegas. However, in the late 1970s, Gentry lost interest in performing and eventually retired from the music industry. Her current whereabouts are uncertain, as she has largely remained out of the public eye.

Johnny Gill Jr. is an American singer and songwriter known for his successful career in R&B and pop music. He gained prominence as the sixth member of New Edition and also collaborated in the supergroup LSG. Gill has released numerous solo albums, as well as albums with New Edition, LSG, and Stacy Lattisaw. With a global reach, he has sold over 15 million copies as a solo artist, establishing himself as a respected and accomplished figure in the music industry.

Tichina Arnold is an accomplished American actress known for her versatile performances in various television sitcoms. With a career spanning several decades, she has portrayed memorable characters such as Pam in "Martin," Rochelle in "Everybody Hates Chris," and Judi in "Happily Divorced." Arnold has also showcased her talent in leading roles, such as Cassie in "Survivor's Remorse" and Tina in "The Neighborhood." Her range and skill as an actress have earned her recognition and praise in the entertainment industry.

Cissy Houston is an accomplished American soul and gospel singer with a successful career spanning backup vocals for artists such as Roy Hamilton, Dionne Warwick, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan. Transitioning to a solo career, she won two Grammy Awards for her exceptional vocal work. Houston's talent and versatility have solidified her reputation as a powerhouse vocalist in the music industry, garnering acclaim for her contributions to various genres and collaborations with renowned artists.

Khalid Donnel Robinson is an accomplished American singer-songwriter known for his successful music career. He gained recognition with hit singles like "Location," "Young Dumb & Broke," and "Talk," which have achieved top positions on the Billboard charts. With multiple Grammy Award nominations and other accolades, Khalid has solidified his reputation as a talented artist in the music industry. His albums, including "American Teen" and "Free Spirit," have received critical acclaim and commercial success, further establishing his place as a prominent figure in contemporary music.

Brian McKnight is a versatile American artist known for his talents as a singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, radio personality, and multi-instrumentalist. With a strong head voice, high belting range, and skillful melisma, he has made a significant impact in the R&B genre. Throughout his career, McKnight has released multiple successful albums and singles, including hits like "Love Is," "One Last Cry," "You Should Be Mine (Don't Waste Your Time)," and "Back at One." His work has garnered critical acclaim, earning him 16 Grammy Award nominations.

James Ingram was a highly successful American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He achieved significant recognition in his career, winning two Grammy Awards and receiving two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song. Ingram charted numerous top 40 hits on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, as well as achieving success on the Adult Contemporary chart. His collaborations with other artists, such as Patti Austin and Linda Ronstadt, produced memorable hits and contributed to his lasting impact on the music industry.

Anderson .Paak is an American rapper, singer, drummer, and record producer known for his versatile talents in the music industry. With a successful solo career that includes albums like "Venice," "Malibu," "Oxnard," and "Ventura," he has garnered critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Additionally, he has collaborated with artists like Knxwledge in the duo NxWorries and formed the highly successful duo Silk Sonic with Bruno Mars. His dynamic performances are often enhanced by the band Free Nationals, showcasing his musical prowess and innovative style.

Lou Rawls was a distinguished American baritone singer known for his soulful voice and versatile musical talent. Throughout his career, he released an impressive 61 albums and sold over 40 million records worldwide. Rawls achieved chart-topping success with hits like "You'll Never Find Another Love like Mine." In addition to his music career, he also made significant contributions as a film, television, and voice actor. Rawls was a three-time recipient of the Best Male R&B Vocal Performance Grammy Award, solidifying his status as a celebrated artist in the music industry.

Rebbie Jackson is an American singer who began her career performing with her siblings in Las Vegas before appearing on The Jacksons TV series. She released her debut album "Centipede" in 1984, featuring songs by Smokey Robinson, Prince, and her brother Michael. She followed up with albums "Reaction" in 1986 and "R U Tuff Enuff" in 1988. After a hiatus, she returned with the cover of "Forever Young" for the Free Willy 2 soundtrack and later released the album "Yours Faithfully" in 1998. She also embarked on the Pick Up the Phone Tour in 2011.

Gerald Levert was a prominent American singer-songwriter, producer, and member of the R&B vocal groups LeVert and LSG. With a successful career spanning several decades, he released numerous solo albums and collaborated with other industry talents. Levert was known for his soulful vocals and contributions to the R&B genre. He was also influential in discovering and promoting new talent in the industry, showcasing his passion for music and dedication to nurturing emerging artists.

LeToya Nicole Luckett is an accomplished American R&B singer and actress known for her contributions to the iconic girl group Destiny's Child. As a founding member, she achieved immense success with hit singles and Grammy Awards. Transitioning to a solo career, Luckett continued her musical prowess with chart-topping albums and singles. She further diversified her talents by venturing into acting, starring in notable films and TV series. Luckett's professional journey showcases her versatility and enduring impact in the entertainment industry.

K Michelle is an American singer and television personality known for her appearances on reality series like Love & Hip Hop. She signed with Atlantic Records and released successful albums like Rebellious Soul, Anybody Wanna Buy a Heart?, More Issues Than Vogue, Kimberly: The People I Used to Know, and All Monsters Are Human. She has also starred in various reality shows and a special called The Rebellious Soul Musical. Throughout her career, K Michelle has received several award nominations and honors, including BET Awards, Soul Train Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and an ASCAP Women Behind the Music award.

Dennis Edwards Jr. was an American soul and R&B singer known for his time as the frontman of The Temptations for Motown Records. He joined the group in 1968, replacing David Ruffin, and sang with them on multiple occasions until 1989. In the mid-1980s, Edwards pursued a solo career and achieved success with the hit single "Don't Look Any Further." Following his solo endeavors, he continued to perform as the lead singer of The Temptations Review until his passing.

Jazmine Sullivan is an accomplished American R&B and soul singer-songwriter with a successful career spanning several albums. She has received accolades such as two Grammy Awards, a Billboard Women in Music Award, and two BET Awards. Throughout her career, Sullivan has released albums that have achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, with notable hits like "Need U Bad" and "Bust Your Windows." Her work has been recognized by Time magazine, placing her on their list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2022.

Nathaniel Rateliff is an American singer and songwriter based in Denver, Colorado, known for his influences in folk, Americana, and vintage rhythm & blues. He formed a backing band called the Night Sweats in 2013 for an R&B side project. Rateliff has released three solo albums, two solo EPs, and one album as Nathaniel Rateliff & the Wheel. With a successful career in the music industry, he continues to captivate audiences with his soulful and heartfelt performances.

Wilson Pickett was an influential American singer and songwriter known for his contributions to soul music. He recorded over 50 songs that charted on the US R&B charts and the Billboard Hot 100, including hits like "In the Midnight Hour," "Land of 1000 Dances," "634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)," "Mustang Sally," "Funky Broadway," "Engine No. 9," and "Don't Knock My Love." His impact on songwriting and recording earned him induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

Luke James Boyd is a multi-talented American singer, songwriter, and actor. Starting his career as part of the R&B duo Luke and Q, he later ventured into solo music, releasing successful albums and singles. James has collaborated with notable artists and received Grammy nominations for his work. In addition to his music career, he has made a name for himself in acting, starring in various TV shows and films. His performances have been well-received by audiences and critics alike, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Betty Wright was an American soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and background vocalist who began her professional career in the late 1960s as a teenager. Rising to fame in the 1970s, she achieved success with hits like "Clean Up Woman" and "Tonight Is the Night". Known for her use of the whistle register, Wright was a prominent figure in the music industry. Her talent and contributions to the soul and R&B genres solidified her reputation as a respected and influential artist.

Dee Dee Warwick was an American soul singer known for her powerful vocals and emotional delivery. She began her career in the 1960s, gaining recognition for her soulful performances. Warwick released several successful singles and albums, showcasing her talent for interpreting a wide range of musical styles. She collaborated with prominent artists and songwriters, leaving a lasting impact on the soul music scene. Warwick's music continues to be celebrated for its depth and authenticity, solidifying her legacy as a respected figure in the music industry.

Ruben Studdard is an American singer and actor known for winning the second season of American Idol. He has released seven studio albums, including Soulful and I Need an Angel. Studdard's hits include "Flying Without Wings", "Sorry 2004", and "Change Me". He has also ventured into television and stage work, starring in Ain't Misbehavin' and making his Broadway debut. Studdard appeared on The Biggest Loser, collaborated with David Foster on Unconditional Love, released Ruben Sings Luther, and launched the Always & Forever tour.

Leon Bridges is an accomplished American singer, songwriter, and record producer who has made a significant impact in the music industry. Signing with Columbia Records marked the beginning of his successful career. His debut album, "Coming Home," achieved platinum certification and a Grammy nomination. Subsequent albums, "Good Thing" and "Gold-Diggers Sound," also received critical acclaim and Grammy nominations. Bridges' work has consistently garnered recognition for its soulful sound and lyrical depth, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in R&B music.

Screamin' Jay Hawkins was a versatile American artist known for his powerful vocal delivery and theatrical performances. He excelled as a singer-songwriter, musician, actor, film producer, and boxer. His rendition of "I Put a Spell on You" remains a classic. Hawkins was a pioneer of shock rock, captivating audiences with his macabre stage props. His talents extended to the film industry, earning him a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for his role in the 1989 indie film Mystery Train.

Peabo Bryson is an accomplished American singer and songwriter known for his soulful ballads, often performed as duets with female singers. He has produced hit singles such as "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," "You're Looking Like Love To Me," "As Long As There's Christmas," "A Whole New World," and "Beauty and the Beast." Bryson has made valuable contributions to two Disney animated feature soundtracks and has been recognized with two Grammy Awards for his exceptional musical talents.

James DeBarge is an American R&B/soul singer known for his contribution to the vocal group DeBarge. He gained fame in the mid-1980s with hit songs like "All This Love", "Love Me in a Special Way", "Rhythm of the Night", and "Who's Holding Donna Now". His smooth and soulful voice captivated audiences, showcasing his talent for delivering heartfelt performances. DeBarge's music continues to resonate with fans, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the R&B genre.

Jody Watley is an accomplished American singer, songwriter, and producer known for her versatile music style that spans pop, R&B, jazz, dance, and electronic soul. She gained prominence as a member of the successful R&B/funk band Shalamar in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As a solo artist, she won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist and received numerous Grammy nominations. Throughout her career, Watley has been recognized for her contributions to music with awards, accolades, and honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Billboard magazine and induction into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame. She continues to make an impact in the music industry through various projects such as hosting her own show on Sirius XM Satellite Radio.

India Arie Simpson, known professionally as India Arie, is an American singer and songwriter. She gained recognition with her debut album, Acoustic Soul, released in 2001. Arie has released a total of six studio albums, selling over five million records in the US and ten million worldwide. She is a four-time Grammy Award winner, having won in categories such as Best R&B Album. With 23 Grammy nominations, India Arie's career has been marked by critical acclaim and commercial success in the music industry.

Phyllis Hyman was an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her expansive contralto range. Her music career spanned from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, with hit songs like "You Know How to Love Me", "Living All Alone", and "Don't Wanna Change the World". Hyman also gained recognition for her covers of popular songs, including "Betcha by Golly Wow" and "What You Won't Do For Love". She showcased her talent on Broadway in the musical revue Sophisticated Ladies, earning accolades for her performance. Tragically, she passed away in 1995.

Richie Havens was a renowned American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his unique blend of folk, soul, and rhythm and blues music. He was recognized for his rhythmic guitar style, often using open tunings. Havens gained widespread fame as the opening act at Woodstock and lent his distinctive voice to various television commercial jingles. Additionally, he served as the voice of GeoSafari toys. Throughout his career, Havens left a lasting impact on the music industry with his soulful performances and innovative musical style.

Ray LaMontagne is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his soulful, folk-inspired music. He has released eight studio albums, showcasing his talent for storytelling and emotive vocals. LaMontagne draws inspiration from a wide range of artists, leading to comparisons with legends like Otis Redding, Van Morrison, and Nick Drake. His music has received critical acclaim for its depth and emotional resonance, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the contemporary music scene.

Heather Headley is a versatile performer known for her talents as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. Her impressive career includes winning a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in Aida and a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album for her work on Audience of One. She has showcased her acting skills on television, notably in a recurring role on the NBC medical drama Chicago Med. Headley's professional journey is marked by critical acclaim and success across various entertainment mediums.

Angie Stone is a versatile American artist excelling in singing, songwriting, acting, and record production. She gained recognition as a member of The Sequence in the late 1970s and later as part of R&B trio Vertical Hold. Stone's solo career took off with her debut album "Black Diamond" in 1999, followed by successful releases like "Mahogany Soul," "Stone Love," and "The Art of Love & War." Alongside her music career, Stone has ventured into acting, appearing in various films, television series, and musical productions, earning Grammy Award nominations and Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards. In 2021, she was honored with the Soul Music Icon Award at the Black Music Honors.

Lari White Cannon was an accomplished American country musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. She rose to fame after winning a talent competition and signed with RCA Records Nashville in 1993. Over the years, she released four successful albums and charted multiple hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. White was known for her unique musical style blending country, blues, and contemporary R&B influences. She also made significant contributions to the music industry by producing albums for other artists and writing songs for well-known musicians. Additionally, White showcased her acting talents in various projects, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment world.

Donald "Duck" Dunn was a highly respected American bass guitarist, session musician, record producer, and songwriter. He gained prominence for his work in the 1960s with Booker T. & the M.G.'s and as a session bassist for Stax Records. Dunn's bass playing can be heard on numerous hit records by artists such as Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Rufus Thomas, and many others. His contributions were recognized with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a spot on Bass Player magazine's list of "The 100 Greatest Bass Players of All Time".

Shawn Stockman is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his prominent role as a member of the vocal group Boyz II Men. He has also been a part of the group Black Men United and served as a judge on the NBC television show The Sing-Off for five seasons. With a successful career in the music industry, Stockman has showcased his talent and expertise through his contributions to various musical projects and television appearances, solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the entertainment world.

Deniece Williams is an acclaimed American singer with a powerful soul voice, recognized as one of the greats by the BBC. Known for hits like "Free", "Silly", and "It's Gonna Take a Miracle", she achieved chart-topping success with singles like "Let's Hear It for the Boy" and "Too Much, Too Little, Too Late" with Johnny Mathis. Throughout her career, she has won four Grammy Awards out of twelve nominations. Williams also contributed to pop culture with the recording of the theme song for the TV show Family Ties, titled "Without Us".

Percy Sledge was an American R&B, soul, and gospel singer known for his emotive vocal style. His career peaked in the late 1960s and early 1970s with hits like "When a Man Loves a Woman," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B singles charts in 1966. Sledge worked as a hospital orderly before gaining musical success. He received accolades such as the Rhythm and Blues Foundation's Pioneer Award in 1989 and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.

Blu Cantrell is an American R&B singer who rose to fame in 2001 with the release of her debut single, "Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops!)", which achieved chart success in the US and internationally. She earned a Grammy Award nomination for the song. Cantrell's second album, "Bittersweet," was also nominated for a Grammy Award and included the hit single "Breathe" featuring Sean Paul. "Breathe" was a major global success in 2003, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and other charts worldwide.

Alexander O'Neal is an American R&B singer, songwriter, and arranger known for his successful career in the music industry. Rising to fame in the mid-1980s, he achieved commercial success with numerous hit singles on both the US R&B and UK Singles charts. His solo work, characterized by emotive vocals and themes of love and relationships, has garnered critical acclaim. With a discography spanning multiple albums and collaborations, O'Neal's powerful voice and soulful style have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the music scene.

Anthony Hamilton is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. He gained recognition for his guest performance on Nappy Roots' hit single "Po' Folks" in 2002, leading to a successful music career. With multiple Grammy nominations and one win, Hamilton's albums have achieved platinum and gold certifications. His music has charted well, with hits like "Charlene" and his co-written song "Freedom" for the Django Unchained soundtrack showcasing his talent and versatility in the music industry.

Kelly Price is an accomplished American R&B and gospel singer known for her powerful vocals and impactful contributions to the music industry. She began her career in 1992 as a backing vocalist for Mariah Carey, later gaining recognition for her work with artists like the Notorious B.I.G., Mase, and Whitney Houston. With hit singles like "Friend of Mine" and successful albums like Soul of a Woman, Mirror Mirror, and Priceless, Price has earned platinum certifications and Grammy nominations for her exceptional talent and artistry.

Brent Faiyaz is an American R&B singer who initially gained recognition as a SoundCloud rapper before transitioning into a successful career as a singer. He first made waves with his debut EP, "Black Child," showcasing his unique blend of singing and rapping. Faiyaz's breakthrough came with his feature on GoldLink's hit single "Crew," which garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. His subsequent albums, including "Sonder Son," "Wasteland," and "Larger than Life," have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the music industry, with multiple Billboard Hot 100 entries and positive reviews from critics.

R. Kelly was a prominent American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his successful career in R&B, hip hop, and pop music. He achieved commercial success with hit singles like "I Believe I Can Fly" and "Ignition (Remix)" and collaborated with renowned artists such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey. Despite his musical accolades, Kelly faced numerous accusations of sexual abuse, leading to his arrest and convictions on federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges involving minors, ultimately ending his career in disgrace.

Shanice Lorraine Wilson-Knox is a multi-talented American artist known for her achievements in the music and entertainment industry. With a successful career spanning singing, songwriting, record production, acting, and dancing, she has made a significant impact with hit singles such as "I Love Your Smile," "Silent Prayer," "Saving Forever for You," and "When I Close My Eyes." Shanice's distinct coloratura soprano voice and remarkable whistle register singing abilities have solidified her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist in the music world.

Booker T. Jones Jr. is a renowned American musician, songwriter, record producer, and arranger. He is most recognized as the frontman of the band Booker T. & the M.G.'s. Throughout his illustrious career, Booker T. Jones has collaborated with numerous prominent artists across the 20th and 21st centuries. His exceptional musical talents have earned him a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement. With a remarkable legacy in the music industry, Booker T. Jones continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians worldwide.

Phoebe Snow was an American roots music singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her hit songs "Poetry Man" and "Harpo's Blues." She also provided vocals for Paul Simon on "Gone at Last." Snow's unique contralto voice spanned four octaves and was praised for its bluesy growl. In addition to her music career, she sang commercial jingles for various U.S. products. Snow achieved success in Australia with five top 100 albums and collaborated on a gospel album with Sisters of Glory in 1995.