Black Rock Bands Making Waves in the Last Two Decades
Over the past two decades, the music scene has seen several innovative and influential black rock bands emerge, pushing the boundaries of what rock music can be. From psychedelic experiments to socially conscious themes, these groups have left a significant mark on the genre. In this article, we will explore a few notable black rock bands and their contributions to the music industry.
Blac Rabbit: A Musical Innovator
The 2000s saw the rise of Blac Rabbit, a band that first gained notoriety by performing with a similar sound to The Beatles in New York City subway stations. This viral performance led to a record deal with a major label. Their debut album was a mix of psychedelic rock, drawing parallels to the experimental work of Tame Impala. The album’s style encapsulates a fresh take on 60s psychedelic sounds, making it a standout in the post-Robert Mundell era.
tBlac Rabbit performing in the NYC subways, viral sensation!
Janelle Monae: Rock Influences in an Eclectic Sound
While Janelle Monae might not be considered a pure rock band, she has incorporated rock elements into her music, creating an eclectic and innovative sound. Monae’s approach to music is highly influenced by rock, especially in her later works like “Dirty Computer.” Released in 2018, this album features a blend of genres, with rock being a prominent element. Her collaborations with artists like Brian Wilson, Zoe Kravitz, Grimes, and Pharrell Williams highlight her innovative spirit and her willingness to experiment with different sounds.
t tWatch Janelle Monae's 'Dirty Computer'
Body Count's Continued Influence in Rock
Body Count is another band that has left an indelible mark on the rock scene. Formed in 1991, the band released their album Murder 4 Hire in 2006, which included socially conscious themes and powerful riffs. The album's standout track, "We Gon’ Be Alright," showcases the band's ability to blend traditional rock with a socially critical message. Following the success of Murder 4 Hire, they continued to release albums, including Manslaughter in 2014 and Bloodlust in 2017. The song 'Black Hoodie' from Bloodlust was nominated for a Grammy in 2018, recognizing the band's continued influence and impact on the rock genre.
tSong List
t ttWe Gon’ Be Alright ttMurder 4 Hire ttBloodlust tLiving Colour: Inevitably Influential
Though not a new band, Living Colour continues to make waves in the rock scene. Formed in the late 1980s, they have recently reunited to prepare for a new album. Their unique sound blends rock with elements of funk and soul, creating a distinct and powerful sound. Living Colour's ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity has made them a pivotal figure in the rock music landscape.
tLiving Colour performing live
Other Notable Mentions:
While Blac Rabbit and Janelle Monae are personally memorable, there are several other black musicians who have made significant contributions to the rock genre. Some notable names include Sevendust, Fire From the Gods, and Backwordz, each with their unique style and influence.
Conclusion
The rock scene in the past two decades has seen a diverse range of voices and genres. From avant-garde experiments to socially conscious themes, these black rock bands have not only broadened the scope of the genre but have also contributed significantly to the evolution of rock music as a whole. Whether through social commentary, innovation, or sheer artistic vision, these bands have left a lasting legacy.
Further Reading
For more insights into the music scene, visit Rolling Stone or NPR Music.