In this interesting encyclopedia article, you can read about the beginning of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a gospel group which performed spirituals all over the country and the world.

A biography of famed country music singer Charley Pride, one of few African Americans in the industry to both perform at and be inducted to the Grand Ole Opry.

This encyclopedia entry extols Queen Latifah as the most influential female rap singer. You can read about her evolution as a rap singer and actress.

This encyclopedia article tells the high points of Mahalia Jackson's life. She was a world-renowned gospel singer whose influence was felt in the civil rights movement.

Biographical profiles of famous singers in major musical genres. Includes photo and links to snippets of their songs.

This encyclopedia entry details the life of Ella Fitzgerald, the incredible jazz singer.

This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica's Guide to Black History features Beyonce, an American singer-songwriter and actress who achieved fame in the late 1990s as the lead singer of the R&B group Destiny's Child and then launched a...

Some great photos and a look at The Fisk Jubilee Singers' 1885 travel logbook from their European trip.

This entry from Encyclopedia Brittanica's Guide to Black History features Taj Mahal, an American singer, guitarist, songwriter, and one of the pioneers of what came to be called world music. He combined blues and other African-American...

This encyclopedia entry tells of Billie Holliday's life. She was, perhaps, the most accomplished jazz vocalist. There is a link to a PBS website for further information.

This brief encyclopedia entry gives information about Nat "King" Cole, an influential jazz pianist and vocalist.

This encyclopedia entry tells about Paul Robeson, famous baritone, and his struggles for racial equality. A link to a website for more information on African-Americans is provided.

Sam Cooke's influence on music, as the pioneer in cross-over from gospel to rhythm and blues, is described in this encyclopedia entry. His music was important to the African-American identity in the Civil Rights movement.

Learn about the life of Ella Fitzgerald, from her childhood as an orphan to her rise as a successful jazz singer. Includes audio (requires RealPlayer).

Celebrate Black American History Month by studying this noteworthy Black American musician from the past Learn why Marian Anderson was called the voice of the century, how she impacted the lives of other Black musicians, and what it...

Celebrate Black Heritage Month by studying this extraordinary vocalist who transcended a troubled childhood to become an American treasure. Create a musical timeline of the noteworthy events in Ella's life. Explore her sensational lyrics...

This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Sammy Davis, Jr., an American singer, dancer, and entertainer.

This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Lloyd Price, an American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Price made his mark in rock music history with his exuberant tenor and his flair for recasting rhythm and blues as...

Biographical details on jazz singer Billie Holiday, a 2000 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Includes a timeline of key life events, essential songs list, and recommended reading.

PBS profiles American jazz singer and actress Lena Horne's life and music. Includes video.

Read some interesting biographical facts on the great R & B singer, Little Willie John, a 1996 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Includes a timeline of key events, recommended reading list, and essential songs.

An informative biography of jazz singer Sarah Vaughan (1924-1990 CE) is presented highlighting her long musical career.

PBS profiles the life of African American actor, athlete, singer, author, and political activist, Paul Robeson. Click on the timeline to see highlights of his often turbulent career.

Actor and singer Paul Robeson and playwright August Wilson are two African Americans featured in this discussion. Throughout their careers, they fought for justice for African Americans. This page has readings of their works and expert...