Not all stars are created equal. Look no further than the recent confusion around The Four Tops singer Alexander Morris’ identity to see how this works out for certain celebs. Let’s face it, some artists are instantly recognizable to Black folks, while other communities may not have the same connection to their work. This isn’t a slight to their talent, it just means they’ve made an indelible impact on the culture. These special group of artists are deemed #BlackFamous. We’re saving you the embarrassment of asking for examples and have gathered a list of some of our favorite #BlackFamous artists.
Tasha Smith
Actress/director Tasha Smith has made a career out of playing the exasperated wife/mother/best friend. However, she brings something different to every role, and we always know we’re going to get something fun.
Leon
If you’re Gen X, you definitely had a crush on Leon. From “Cool Runnings,” to “Waiting to Exhale,” he had the ‘90s on lock. And he’s still fine today.
Evelyn “Champagne” King
One of the divas of disco and dance music, Evelyn “Champagne” King has some of biggest party hits of all time. If you put “Love Come Down” on at your barbecue this weekend, clear the dance floor.
Blue Magic
If you’re taking a drive that lasts an hour or more with your father or uncle, Blue Magic “Sideshow” is definitely going to be somewhere on the playlist.
Boris Kodjoe
The popular actor has gained a loyal fanbase with roles in “Station 19,” “Madea’s Family Reunion” and “Real Husbands of Hollywood.” He’s also a lot of fun when he plays against his sex symbol status.
LisaRaye McCoy
After her breakout role in “The Player’s Club,” LisaRaye McCoy carved out a long career by branching out into comedies, thrillers and dramas.
Phyllis Hyman
The late Phyllis Hyman had a voice that captured every emotion that comes with falling in and out of love. She may not have reached mainstream crossover success, but her music still resonates.
Tevin Campbell
It may actually be a law that when “Can We Talk” comes on, Black folks must participate in a sing-a-long. Don’t act like you’ve never belted it out in a supermarket.
Richard T. Jones
Name a TV show and Richard T. Jones has been on it. He’s obviously recognizable to more than just Black audiences, but we’re the ones who know his name and don’t just know him as the guy from that show. We also know that when he appears we’re going to get a rock solid performance that makes us wish he were more than a guest star.
Frankie Beverly
If you’re at a cookout, things have slowed down a little and you want to instantly hype them back up, play Maze featuring Frankie Beverly “Before I Let Go.” It’s the secret to a successful party.
Lynn Whitfield
She’s the disapproving mother, the distant wife, the girlfriend who’s tired of your shit, and the elegant, rich relative who shows up just to look down on you. She’s extraordinary in all these roles and she’s timeless. It’s true, Lynn Whitfield doesn’t age.
Stephanie Mills
If Diana Ross is the Dorothy you’re most familiar with, you’re missing out. Stephanie Mills originated the role in “The Wiz” on Broadway and she still brings the house down with “Home.”
Robin Givens
Robin Givens was thee It Girl of the ‘80s and ‘90s. Her elegance, beauty, brains and swag made her standout from the crowd. If you saw her on The CW’s “Batwoman,” you know she’s still got that same captivating persona. She’s also the epitome of “Black don’t crack.”
Bumper Robinson
If you watched a sitcom in the ‘80s and ‘90s, you definitely saw Bumper Robinson and chances are, you had a crush on him.
Larenz Tate
From :Love Jones” to “Power Book II: Ghost,” it feels like we’ve been watching Larenz Tate put on for the culture our whole lives. This man has told our stories for two generations and is still going strong. Larenz never disappoints.
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