One notable change in country music in recent years has been the increasing diversity of country music performers and songwriters. While the genre has historically been dominated by white artists, there has been a push to include more artists from diverse backgrounds and to address a wider range of experiences and perspectives in country music.
A favorite of “Larry’s Country Diner” audiences is Tony Jackson. Jackson set the country music world on fire with his back-to-tradition vocal style on his highly acclaimed debut album, “Tony Jackson,” and never looked back. Touted as one of the most gifted singers ever to grace country music, his strong emotionally-charged and engaging voice captured the hearts of millions, seemingly overnight. The former U.S. Marine’s impressive string of radio chart hits include: “The Grand Tour,” “Old Porch Swing,” Nashville Cats,” Drink by Drink” and “Country Road.” Videos of Jackson performing on “Larry’s Country Diner” are among the most popular on the Diner’s YouTube channel.
There have been a number of other African American country artists who made significant contributions to the genre. Here are some notable figures and a brief overview of their careers:
Charley Pride: Charley Pride was a country music singer, songwriter and guitarist who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. He is remembered for his smooth baritone voice and hits such as “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin‘” and “Is Anybody Goin‘ to San Antone.” Pride was one of the most successful African American country music artists of all time was inducted into the Grand Old Opry in 1993 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000.
DeFord Bailey: DeFord Bailey was a pioneering African American country musician and harmonica player who was active in the 1920s and 1930s. He was one of the first African American performers to be featured on the Grand Ole Opry, and he is credited with helping to popularize the harmonica as a solo instrument in country music.
Stoney Edwards: Stoney Edwards was a country singer and songwriter who had a string of hits in the 1970s and 1980s, including “She’s My Rock” and “Hangin‘ In and Hangin‘ On.” He was known for his smooth voice and his ability to connect with audiences through his lyrics.
Ray Charles: Ray Charles was a groundbreaking musician who fused elements of country, blues and jazz to create a unique sound. He had a number of country hits, including “I Can’t Stop Loving You” and “You Don’t Know Me.” Charles was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2022.
Darius Rucker: Darius Rucker is a country singer and songwriter who first gained fame as the lead singer of the rock band Hootie & the Blowfish. He has had a successful solo career as a country artist, releasing hits such as “Wagon Wheel” and “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It.” Rucker has won numerous awards for his music, including three Country Music Association awards.
Charley Crockett: Charley Crockett is a country singer and songwriter who has released a number of albums and has gained a devoted following for his blend of traditional country and blues.
Cleve Francis: Cleve Francis is a country singer and cardiologist who has released several albums and had a number of hits, including “The Heart of a Man”.
Mickey Guyton: Mickey Guyton is a country singer and songwriter who has released several singles and is known for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics. She has been nominated for four Grammy Awards as well as receiving award nominations from CMT Music, the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.
Kane Brown: Kane Brown is a country singer and songwriter who has had a number of hits, including “Heaven” and “Lose It.” He has won several awards for his music, including two American Music Awards and a Country Music Association award.
Chapel Hart: Hailing from Poplarville, Mississippi, sisters Danica Hart and Devynn Hart, and their cousin Trea Swindle, are vocalists and songwriters. In July 2022, they competed on “America’s Got Talent,” where they finished fifth and also made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Despite facing challenges and discrimination within the industry, African American country musicians have persevered and continue to create meaningful and impactful music that resonates with fans around the world. Their contributions to country music are invaluable and their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
by Claudia Johnson