EP 4: Checks and Royalties: The Unsung Black Roots of American Music

This episode explores the historical erasure and appropriation of Black musicians and songwriters. Mark Anthony Neal, Chair of the African & African American Studies Department at Duke University, explains how Black artists were often exploited, denied proper credit, and overshadowed by white artists who covered their songs. It also traces the origins of American music back to the spirituals created by enslaved Africans, the evolution of rhythms in New Orleans, and the influence of genres like jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll. Despite progress made by labels like Motown, contemporary artists like Kimberly Nichole question whether the industry truly embraces and celebrates Black musicians or simply perpetuates a cycle of erasure and appropriation. Reported by Kojin Tashiro.

Follow Mark Anthony Neal on Twitter @NewBlackMan Follow Kimberly Nichole on Twitter @KimNicky.