Known for innovative music styles that blended various genres like funk, rock, and R&B
Released 20 studio albums, won 3 grammies, nominated for 17 grammies, and had 5 songs in the Hot 100 for 42 weeks
Michael Jackson
Born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana
Died on June 25, 2009
Known as the "King of Pop" with numerous grammies, groundbreaking albums like thriller (which remains the best-selling album of all time
Reowned for his innovation music videos and signature dance moves, like the moonwalk
Aretha Franklin
Born on March 25, 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee
Died on August 16, 2018
Known as the "Queen of Soul" as a powerhouse vocalist and career spanning five decades
Receieved 18 Grammies with iconic hits like "Respect", "Natural Woman", and "Think"
Stevie Wonder
Born on May 13, 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan
He is still alive and continues to be an influential figure in music
A legendary singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his work in the soul, pop, and R&B genres
Received 25 Grammies and released classic hits like "Superstition", "Isn't She Lovely", and "Sir Duke"
Whitney Houston
Born on August 9, 1963 in Newark, New Jersey
Died on February 11, 2012
One of the greatest vocalists of all time, known for her powerful voice and incredible range
Received multiple Grammies and released timeless hits like "I Will Always Love You" and "Greatest Love of All"
Louis Armstrong
Born on August 4, 1901 in New Orleans, Lousiana
Died on July 6, 1971
A strong pioneering jaxx musician and one of the most influential figures in jazz history
Renowned for his contributions to jazz and innovative approach to music, releasing hits like "What a Wonderful World" and "When the Saints Go Marching In"
Sade
Born on January 16, 1959 in Ibadan, Nigeria
British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress
Known for her smooth, soulful voice and her unique blend of soul, jazz and R&B music
Popular songs include "Smooth Operator", "No Ordinary Love". and "The Sweetest Taboo"
Rihanna
Born on February 20, 1988 in Saint Micheal, Barbados
Globally reowned singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman
Her career took off with hits like "Umbrella", "Diamonds", and "We Found Love"
Beyond music, she is known for her significant strides in the fashion and beauty indsutries with her Fenty Brand
Usher
Born on October 14, 1978 in Dallas, Texas
Talented singer, songwriter, and dancer known for his smooth vocals and impressive dance moves
Delivered numerous hit songs like "Yeah!", "U Remind Me", and "Burn"
He has solidified his status as an R&B icon and influenced many artists in the music industry
Beyonce
Born on September 4, 1981
Incredible singer, songwriter, and performer known for her powerful vocals, captivating stage prescence, and empowering lyrics
Released iconic tracks like "Single Ladies", "Crazy in Love", and "Formation"
Known as one of the most influential and successful artists of her generation, renowned for her talent and dedication to her craft
Mary J. Blige
Born on January 11, 1971 in the Bronx, New York City
Iconic singer, songwriter, and actress known as the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul"
Some of her most famous songs include "Real Love", "Family Affair", and "Be Without You"
She has had a significant impact on the music industry with her powerful voice and emotional depth in her music
The Weeknd
Born on February 16, 1990 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Known for his unique voice and genre-blending music which incorporates elements of R&B, pop, and electronic music
Biggest hits include "Blinding Lights", "Can't Feel My Face", and "Starboy"
One of the most influential artists in contemporary music