black female singers of the '80s
1985s Thats What Friends Are For went to #1 on three different Billboard charts and raised money for the American Foundation for AIDS Research. James Cleveland, Mahalia Jackson, the Clara Ward Singers, etc. Today, the best black, Read More 9 Black Lifetime Movies, The Best On The ServiceContinue, The Sugarhill Gangs 1979 hit Rappers Delight was the first rap song to rank in the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. There is a long list of talented black singers who found success in the 1980s, but there are also many who have been forgotten. This model-turned-singer reset beauty standards with her unapologetically androgynous style. As a child, she exhibited a great talent for music and dance and had a dream to become the African American Rockette. And while there were many talented female singers in the decade, there were also a few who were considered to be the hottest. Donna Summer She might have been considered the Queen of Disco, but Donna Summer transcended that label in the 1980s with the release of several hit singles. Still, his success during that decade did not end there. Not long removed from her teenage days spent singing on the streets of Harlem, jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald shot to stardom in 1938 with her stunning performance of "A Tisket, A Tasket." Based on. They're undoubtedly stunning, but today's music divas stand on the shoulders of gorgeous '80s glamazons like Whitney, Sade, Jody Watley and Miss Jackson (if you're nasty). Whitney Houston 7. From women to men, old to young, here are the 24 best black stand up comedians with specials, Read More 24 Best Black Stand Up Comedians With Netflix Comedy SpecialsContinue, The history of jazz is long, storied, filled with drama, tragedy, comedy, love, and outstanding singers. She was a trendsetter in the world of fashion and her unique style helped to define the decade. Billboard 200. Those that stayed went on to produce five albums in the span of a few short years. These women helped to break down the barriers for female metal singers and paved the way for later stars like Amy Lee and Sharon Den Adel. She studied theater and music at Syracuse, and during this time, was crowned Miss New York in 1983. A record eight Grammys in 1984 for that album gave him all the credibility he needed. Apart from solo artists, there were also a number of successful bands in the 80s that featured female lead singers. At the beginning of 1980, she had already sold more than 100 million records and was a huge success. These women are known for their powerful vocal performances and their ability to connect with audiences. Their songs spoke to the heart of people from all walks of life and showed that African American artists could make it big in mainstream America. Chapmans career began to fall off after she performed at Nelson Mandelas 70th birthday celebration. There was a time when country music was known for its twangy guitars and its tales of heartbreak, loss, and love. If youre looking for a movie with a Black-centric theme and cast that will have you cracking up, Read More 15 Best Black Comedy Movies Of All TimeContinue. 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. However, there were a number of successful female soul singers in the 1980s. Joan Jett Annie Lennox (Eurythmics) Cyndi Lauper Pat Benatar Chrissie Hynde (Pretenders) Ann Wilson (Heart) Grace Slick (Starship) Joni Mitchell Tori Amos Stevie Nicks (Fleetwood Mac) Debbie Harry (Blondie) Linda Ronstadt Suzanne Vega Bonnie Tyler 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. Essence may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. It is a sound that is steeped in pain and struggle, but also in hope and joy. In her early 20s, her boyfriend mailed off her demo tape to Sony Music, and she was quickly signed on in 1991. She won her first Grammy Award in 1998 for the collaborative single Ghetto Superstar with rapper Ol Dirty Bastard which was a number one hit in countries all over the world. The album, released in 1988, catapulted to number one in the United States and the U.K. thanks to its single Fast Car. Her initial album earned her three Grammy Awards for Best New Artist, Best Contemporary Folk Album, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performer. She has been the recipient of several Emmy nominations, a Tony nomination, and 11 Grammy nominations. Her first solo came at the age of two years old. These are the women who had a few hits but never quite made it to the top of the charts. Every decade has its share of one-hit wonders, and the 80s were no exception. The Pointer Sisters epitomized 80s cool, with their teased tresses, purple eyeshadow and bold, berry-stained lipgloss. This led to a second album which Brandy helped write and produce. From the early days of Madonna and Cyndi Lauper to the height of Whitney Houstons career, this list includes all the ladies who made the 80s such a great decade for music. & Rakim, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J. While there were many talented women who contributed to the decades pop sound, a few singers rose above the rest and achieved massive commercial success. As a result, they attracted large audiences with their soulful music and engaging personalities. And certainly, without these talented women, the 80s would not have been the same. Best Answer. This list is based on the highest album sales, influence over the fans, and overall impact on the music industry during the 80s. Now that you have the list, go ahead and give these singers a listen. The album was a huge success, reaching the top of the R&B charts and selling over a million copies. And while they may not be as well-known as some of the other female singers on this list, they are nonetheless important figures in the history of soul music. Related: For more like this, see our article on other black famous singers here. But what made them so special? But they left their fingerprints all over the music industry with classics like Im So Excited that played on the radio incessantly. Soul music is about the human experience, and it is one of the most emotionally powerful genres of music. 14 WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE LOVELY (BLACK) Sticker By christikdesigns From $2. In honor of their contributions, here are the best black female singers of the 80s. And it all came from the hard work and raw talent of these artists. The industry owes a lot to the black artists since they are the ones who shaped and created the trends we see today. Every decade has its share of one-hit wonders, and the 80s is no exception. These are just a few of the many talented black soul singers who found success in the 1980s. Multiple Grammy Award-winning singer, Mega Jovon Ruth Pete, better known as Megan Thee Stallion is next on the list. Despite their fade out, their music is still predominantly listened to in the US. 12 Black Disney Movies, Both Cartoons & Real Acting, 61 Black Celebrities That Died In 2023; A Tribute To The Fallen, 30 Black YouTubers 2023; Male & Female Channels. It was also a time when some of the most iconic and influential rappers emerged, including Eric B. Its hard to imagine, right? Other hot female singers of the 80s include Cindy Lauper, Janet Jackson, and Whitney Houston. Throughout her illustrious career, Williams has found success as a singer, actress, and fashion designer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHutZXREZ0E, Madonna Crazy For You (Official Video) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHutZXREZ0E), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbxUSsFXYo4, Dolly Parton 9 To 5 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbxUSsFXYo4), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU, Whitney Houston I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsattyYh8Ig, Lee Aaron Hands On (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsattyYh8Ig), Twisted Sister ( Were Not Gonna Take It ), Joan Jett (Joan Jett and the Blackhearts). Her brother, Michael Jackson, dominated the charts, but Janet was no slouch during the 80s either. Cyndi Lauper. After being ousted from New Edition in 1985, Bobby Brown could have taken his ball and gone home, but instead, he ran with it with his own successful solo career. Table of Contents Best Black Female Singers of the 70s Sheila Ferguson Chaka Khan Donna Summer Aretha Franklin Natalie Cole Roberta Flack Gloria Gaynor Gladys Knight Diana Ross Dionne Warwick Tina Turner Patti Labelle Minnie Riperton Etta James Nina Simone Conclusion Best Black Female Singers of the 70s Summer had several certified Gold records released during the decade as well. Known for R&B and Soul music, Desree is still releasing music today. Today, black female musicians like Doja Cat, Beyonce, and SZA inspire young women and have a hold on the music industry. Along with her incredible music, she has a distinct look that has become iconic. These women were able to adapt their sound to the changing times and they found success with a new generation of disco fans. Your email address will not be published. Braxton began singing in her fathers church choir early in her childhood. Sign up free 0:00 0:00 Company About Jobs For the Record Top Black Female Singers of the 90s, Final Thoughts. "Good Quality". Browns success continued in 1989 when he contributed two songs to the Ghostbusters II soundtrack: On Our Own and Were Back, the former peaking at #2. Shanice became a professional singer at the age of 8 years old when she was selected to sing alongside Ella Fitzgerald in a Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial. Male Reference photos Resources Photography Reference Humans Standard Use License USD $10. Copy. Annie Lennox People were captivated by Annie Lennox from the first second she pounded the desk in the "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" video. However, sometimes, youre just in the mood to laugh. Cyndi Lauper is one of the most iconic female pop singers of all time. In 1998, she went on a world tour and performed sold-out shows throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Soul music is often associated with the 1960s and 1970s and is considered to be a precursor to funk and disco music. During his time in the band Change, Luther Vandross was already a successful artist, but he finally broke through as a solo artist in 1981 with the release of Never Too Much. And some of the singers who emerged in the 80s are still relevant today. Hit single after hit single, Platinum record after Platinum record, Jackson transformed what it meant to be a pop star starting with 1979s Off The Wall. 2. To celebrate their contribution to this decade, in this post, weve put together a list of 15 of the greatest and most famous black singers of the 1980s. The lyrics were often dark and introspective, dealing with topics like love, loss, and betrayal. Powerhouses like Guns N Roses, Metallica, and Bon Jovi took over the airwaves with their loud and aggressive music. These artists brought a new sound and a new perspective to the genre, which all together helped it become more mainstream. This led to her first recording contract and the release of her album The Right Stuff, which went gold. The songs featured themes of feminism and female sexuality, although it was generally considered a slump. The 90s saw highs and lows for Chapman. From fashion to music, they have given us some of the best creations in history. Jade - " Don't Walk Away ." The group's debut album, consisting of members Tonya Kelly, Joi Marshall, and Di Reed, was certified gold. Richie released one more album in 1986, Dancing On The Ceiling, before taking a ten-year break. She got her big break in 1986 when she was introduced to a manager at Elektra records that helped her break into the industry. This Puerto Rican/Black soul singer turned heads with her impossibly lush pout and expressive, dark eyes. It earned her two Grammy Award nominations for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best New Artist, four Soul Train Music Awards, and the New York Childrens Choice Awards. Midnight Love would go on to sell over six million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of Gayes career. However, it was also a time when African American singers were topping the charts with their soulful sounds. With her exotic eyes, mile-long nails, and oversize earrings, this former Soul Train dancer was one of the fiercest trendsetters of the 80s! Though soul is often associated with the 60s and 70s, the genre continued to be popular in the 80s with artists like Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross, and Marvin Gaye. There are many amazing recent offerings, but this list also covers hits from the, Read More 19 Black Thriller Movies With Plot Twists & ExcitementContinue, Lifetime is one of the more popular basic cable channels out there. Vandross also worked with other artists during the decade, including his favorite artist, Dionne Warwick (more on her in a moment). Having risen to prominence as part of the Ike And Tina Turner Revue in the 60s and 70s, she broke away from her abusive husband to forge an unstoppable career of her own. Rappers like N.W.A., Public Enemy, and Beastie Boys were making a name for themselves with their controversial lyrics and innovative beats. And by the end of the decade, they had become some of the most popular female folk singers in the world. They earned a solid reputation as reliable backup singers, working with Lou Rawls, Aretha Franklin, Teddy Pendergrass, Diana Ross, Linda . Females in country music had been around since the genres inception, but they truly came into their own in the 80s. The 90s saw the release of the bands fourth studio album, Love Deluxe, which peaked at number four on the U.S. Thanks to them, LGBTQ+ people had someone to look up to and their music helped spread awareness and acceptance. Unfortunately, when we hear the famous name Janet Jackson, many minds go to the catastrophe at the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show. Each of Princes albums achieved massive amounts of critical success. So we're dedicating today's article to the best 80s female singers. The fact that many of the biggest stars of the 80s came from the UK is no surprise. Despite her career beginning in the 50s when she was just a teen, Tinas solo career didnt take off until 1983, when she recorded a cover of Al Greenes Lets Stay Together, which became an immediate hit and had people wanting more. . Wrapping Up For Our 80s Black Singers List, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRdxUFDoQe0, Michael Jackson Beat It (Official 4K Video) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRdxUFDoQe0), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHtT-a4n1vo, Sylvester Do Ya Wanna Funk (remastered remix) [HQ] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHtT-a4n1vo), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG3VcCAlUgE, Prince & The Revolution When Doves Cry (Official Music Video) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG3VcCAlUgE), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY7PmX6Oz58, Whitney Houston You Give Good Love (Official HD Video) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY7PmX6Oz58), Bobby McFerrin (Song Dont Worry Be Happy), The Weather Girls (Song Its Raining Men). Featured themes of feminism and female sexuality, although it was generally considered a slump since. Music, and SZA inspire young women and have a hold on the Ceiling, before a. Ten-Year break on this website, was crowned Miss new York in 1983 their contributions, are! 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