Remembering Etta James

January 20, 2012

From doo-wop to soul to gospel to blues, her 50-year career was the mature sound track for several generations.

Romare Bearden: A Birthday Tribute

The late, great artist would have turned 100 this month, and he doesn't get the respect he deserves.

The Professor and the Bellhop

A Twitter war broke out among black academics about Cornel West's rant about President Obama. But no one's talking about his elitist screed against a bellhop. Why not?

Hear This: Cam'ron, Musiq Soulchild and Beastie Boys

It's been a banner year for hip-hop and neo-soul veterans. The Root's roundup highlights spring's best offerings.

Hear This: Les Nubians, Ambrose Akinmusire, Pharoahe Monch

April brings eclectic offerings from The Root’s Roundup, from Spanish-and-African-flavored jazz to conscious rap to Pan-African neo-soul. Good listening awaits.

The Root Roundup: Raekwon, Delfeayo Marsalis and Marsha Ambrosius

Two solo comebacks from members of Wu Tang and Floetry, and a remake of an Ellington classic -- all worth a listen.

The Best Martin Luther King Jr. Anthem Ever

Today she's largely forgotten. But no one sang a better, more searing tribute to the slain civil rights leader than R&B-and-jazz singer Big Maybelle.

Teena Marie: The Godmother of Hip-Hop

From the Fugees to DJ Lovebug Starski, Teena Marie, aka Lady T, made soulful music that influenced an entire generation of hip-hop.

Happy Birthday, Clef Club!

One hundred years ago this week, a group of Harlem musicians formed an organization that changed the way black musicians were perceived and treated.

An Open Letter to Michelle Obama

Dear Michelle, can Barack please have a cigarette?