The 1980s and 1990s were a golden era for black female singers.

Countless talented artists left an indelible mark on the music industry and shaped the sound of R&B, soul, and pop for generations to come.

This article will celebrate the incredible contributions of these influential women.

Highlighting their most iconic hits, their impact on the music scene, and the lasting legacy they’ve left behind.

From the powerhouse vocals of Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin to the soulful sounds of Anita Baker and Sade and the chart-topping success of Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson.

We’ll explore the careers of over 80 remarkable black female singers who defined an era and inspired countless artists who followed in their footsteps.

Black Female Singers of the 80s and 90s Who Ruled The Era

Black female singers of the 1980s and 1990s left an indelible mark on the music industry, captivating audiences with their powerful voices, unique styles, and undeniable stage presence.

These women dominated the charts and broke barriers, paving the way for future generations of black female artists.

Their contributions extended beyond music.

They became cultural icons, influencing fashion, style, and social movements.

1. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston was a legendary powerhouse vocalist with incredible range, control, and technical ability.

She remains one of the best-selling music artists ever, with over 200 million records sold worldwide.

• Famous songs: “I Will Always Love You”, “Greatest Love of All”
• Awards: 2 Emmy Awards, 6 Grammy Awards, 16 World Music Awards, 22 American Music Awards, 2 Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 1977-2012

2. Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson is a pop icon known for her innovative dance moves and powerful vocals.

She has released numerous hit albums and singles, cementing her status as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Nasty,” “Miss You Much,” “That’s the Way Love Goes.”
• Awards: 5 Grammy Awards, 11 American Music Awards, 5 Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 1974-present

3. Tina Turner

Tina Turner is a trailblazing pioneer of R&B and soul, known for her raw, expressive voice and powerful stage presence.

She became a critically acclaimed artist who pushed boundaries and fearlessly bared her soul through her music.

• Famous songs: “Proud Mary”, “What’s Love Got to Do with It”
• Awards: 8 Grammy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
• Years Active: 1958-2009

4. Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul,” possessed a powerful, emotionally charged voice and a unique gospel-inspired style that transformed popular music throughout her six-decade-long career.

She achieved commercial success and inspired countless artists across generations.

• Famous songs: “Respect,” “A Natural Woman.”
• Awards: 18 Grammy Awards, Presidential Medal of Freedom
• Years Active: 1956-2017

5. Diana Ross

Diana Ross was the lead singer of the music group The Supremes.

She released numerous hit albums and singles throughout her singing career, cementing her status as a pop icon.

• Famous songs: “Upside Down,” “I’m Coming Out,” and “Endless Love.”
• Awards: 2 Golden Globe Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1959-present

6. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey is a renowned singer and songwriter called the “Songbird Supreme” by Guinness World Records.

She is known for her powerful vocals and ability to hit high notes.

• Famous songs: “Fantasy,” “One Sweet Day,” “We Belong Together.”
• Awards: 5 Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, 11 American Music Awards, 14 Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 1988-present

7. Anita Baker

Anita Baker is a Grammy-winning R&B singer known for her soulful voice and smooth delivery.

She has released several critically acclaimed albums and has influenced many contemporary R&B artists.

• Famous songs: “Sweet Love,” “Giving You the Best That I Got.”
• Awards: 8 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1983-present

8. Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle is a legendary R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and energetic performances.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “New Attitude,” “If You Asked Me To.”
• Awards: 2 Grammy Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards
• Years Active: 1962-present

9. Sade

Sade is a British singer-songwriter known for her smooth, sophisticated sound and introspective lyrics.

She has released several critically acclaimed albums and has influenced many contemporary artists.

• Famous songs: “Smooth Operator,” “No Ordinary Love.”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1984-present

10. Chaka Khan

Chaka Khan is a legendary R&B and funk singer known for her powerful vocals and versatility.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “I’m Every Woman,” “Through the Fire.”
• Awards: 10 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1973-present

11. Natalie Cole

Natalie Cole was an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to blend contemporary and classic styles.

She won multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

• Famous songs: “This Will Be,” “Unforgettable”
• Awards: 6 Grammy Awards, Grammy Hall of Fame Award
• Years Active: 1975-2015

12. Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick is a legendary R&B and pop singer known for her smooth vocals and sophisticated style.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Walk On By”, “Do You Know the Way to San Jose”
• Awards: 5 Grammy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
• Years Active: 1962-present

13. Gladys Knight

Gladys Knight is a legendary R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Midnight Train to Georgia.”
• Awards: 7 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1952-present

14. Stephanie Mills

Stephanie Mills is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Never Knew Love Like This Before”, “Home”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1973-present

15. Jody Watley

Jody Watley is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her innovative style and ability to blend contemporary and classic sounds.

She has influenced many modern artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Looking for a New Love,” “Real Love.”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1987-present

16. Donna Summer

Donna Summer was a legendary disco and R&B singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Last Dance,” “MacArthur Park.”
• Awards: 5 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1968-2012

17. Deniece Williams

Deniece Williams is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Let’s Hear It for the Boy”, “Free”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1971-present

18. Phyllis Hyman

Phyllis Hyman was an acclaimed R&B and jazz singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Old Friend,” “Living All Alone.”
• Awards: 1 Grammy nomination
• Years Active: 1975-1995

19. Regina Belle

Regina Belle is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “If I Could”, “A Whole New World”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1987-present

20. CeCe Peniston

CeCe Peniston is an acclaimed R&B and dance-pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest live performers ever.

• Famous songs: “Finally”, “We Got a Love Thang.”
• Awards: 1 Billboard Music Award
• Years Active: 1991-present

21. En Vogue

En Vogue is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.

• Famous songs: “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It)”, “Don’t Let Go (Love)”
• Awards: 7 MTV Video Music Awards, 3 Soul Train Music Awards
• Years Active: 1989-present

22. TLC

TLC is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.

• Famous songs: “Waterfalls,” “No Scrubs.”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards, 5 MTV Video Music Awards
• Years Active: 1990-present

23. SWV (Sisters With Voices)

SWV is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.

• Famous songs: “Weak,” “You’re the One.”
• Awards: 3 Soul Train Music Awards

24. Xscape

Xscape is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups ever.

• Famous songs: “Just Kickin’ It,” “Who Can I Run To.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1992-1998, 2005-present

25. Aaliyah

Aaliyah was an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and innovative style.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Try Again,” “One in a Million.”
• Awards: 2 MTV Video Music Awards
• Years Active: 1994-2001

26. Brandy

Brandy is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “The Boy Is Mine”, “Have You Ever”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award, 1 Billboard Music Award
• Years Active: 1993-present

27. Monica

Monica is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “The Boy Is Mine”, “Angel of Mine”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award, 1 Billboard Music Award
• Years Active: 1995-present

28. Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige is an acclaimed R&B and hip-hop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Real Love”, “Family Affair”
• Awards: 9 Grammy Awards, 4 American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1988-present

29. Faith Evans

Faith Evans is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “You Used to Love Me”, “Soon as I Get Home”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1994-present

30. Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Un-Break My Heart,” “He Wasn’t Man Enough.”
• Awards: 7 Grammy Awards, 7 American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1992-present

31. Mýa

Mýa is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “It’s All About Me”, “Case of the Ex”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1998-present

32. Deborah Cox

Deborah Cox is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here”, “We Can’t Be Friends”
• Awards: 1 Juno Award
• Years Active: 1995-present

33. Karyn White

Karyn White is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Superwoman,” “Secret Rendezvous.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1988-present

34. Shanice

Shanice is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “I Love Your Smile,” “Silent Prayer.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1987-present

35. Tamia

Tamia is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Officially Missing You,” “Stranger in My House.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1998-present

36. Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Save the Best for Last,” “Dreamin’.”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award, 1 Primetime Emmy Award
• Years Active: 1988-present

37. Pebbles

Pebbles is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Mercedes Boy,” “Giving You the Benefit.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1987-present

38. Lisa Fischer

Lisa Fischer is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “How Can I Ease the Pain”, “So Nice”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1983-present

39. Brenda Russell

Brenda Russell is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Piano in the Dark,” “Get Here.”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1979-present

40. Angela Winbush

Angela Winbush is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Angel,” “Lay Your Troubles Down.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1987-present

41. Miki Howard

Miki Howard is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Ain’t Nuthin’ in the World”, “Ain’t Nobody Like You”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1986-present

42. Evelyn “Champagne” King

Evelyn “Champagne” King is an acclaimed R&B and disco singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Shame,” “I’m in Love.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1977-present

43. Cheryl Lynn

Cheryl Lynn is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Got to Be Real”, “Shake It Up Tonight”
• Awards: 1 Grammy nomination
• Years Active: 1978-present

44. Melba Moore

Melba Moore is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “This Is It”, “You Stepped Into My Life”
• Awards: 1 Tony Award, 1 Grammy nomination
• Years Active: 1971-present

45. Lalah Hathaway

Lalah Hathaway is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Angel”, “Let Go”
• Awards: 5 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1990-present

46. Chanté Moore

Chanté Moore is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Chanté’s Got a Man,” “Bitter.”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1992-present

47. Brownstone

Brownstone is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for its powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

It has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest vocal groups of its generation.

• Famous songs: “If You Love Me”, “Pass the Lovin'”
• Awards: 1 Soul Train Music Award
• Years Active: 1993-1998, 2013-present

48. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill is an acclaimed R&B, hip-hop, and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to blend genres.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Doo Wop (That Thing)”, “Ex-Factor”
• Awards: 8 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1994-present

49. Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her unique style and ability to blend genres.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “On & On”, “Bag Lady”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1997-present

50. Destiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Bills, Bills, Bills”, “Say My Name”
• Awards: 3 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1990-2006

51. Salt-N-Pepa

Salt-N-Pepa is an acclaimed hip-hop and R&B vocal group known for their influential style and ability to tackle social issues through music.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Push It”, “Shoop”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1985-2002, 2007-present

52. Des’ree

Desiree is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “You Gotta Be”, “Life”
• Awards: 1 Brit Award
• Years Active: 1991-present

53. Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Killing Me Softly with His Song”, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1969-present

54. Millie Jackson

Millie Jackson is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to tackle controversial topics through her music.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Ask Me What You Want,” “If You’re Not Back in Love by Monday.”
• Awards: 2 Grammy nominations
• Years Active: 1972-present

55. Denise Williams

Denise Williams is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Let’s Hear It for the Boy”, “How Deep Is Your Love”
• Awards: 4 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 1977-present

56. Etta James

Etta James was an acclaimed R&B, soul, and blues singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “At Last,” “I’d Rather Go Blind.”
• Awards: 6 Grammy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
• Years Active: 1954-2012

57. Oleta Adams

Oleta Adams is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Get Here,” “Circle of One.”
• Awards: 4 Grammy nominations
• Years Active: 1990-present

58. Teena Marie

Teena Marie was an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Lovergirl,” “Square Biz.”
• Awards: 1 Grammy nomination
• Years Active: 1979-2010

59. Joyce Sims

Joyce Sims is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Come Into My Life”, “Lifetime Love”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1986-present

60. Melissa Morgan

Melissa Morgan is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Do You Feel Me”, “Tears On My Pillow”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 2007-present

61. Jocelyn Brown

Jocelyn Brown is an acclaimed R&B and dance singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Somebody Else’s Guy,” “Love’s Gonna Get’cha (Material Love).”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1970s-present

62. Gwen Guthrie

Gwen Guthrie was an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Ain’t Nothin’ Goin’ on But the Rent,” “Outside in the Rain.”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1982-1999

63. Melanie Fiona

Melanie Fiona is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “It Kills Me,” “4 AM.”
• Awards: 2 Grammy Awards
• Years Active: 2009-present

64. Patrice Rushen

Patrice Rushen is an acclaimed R&B, jazz, and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Forget Me Nots,” “Haven’t You Heard.”
• Awards: 3 Grammy nominations
• Years Active: 1970s-present

65. Caron Wheeler

Caron Wheeler is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me),” “Keep On Movin’.”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1989-present

66. Klymaxx

Klymaxx is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “The Men All Pause,” “I Miss You.”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1979-1988, 1998-present

67. Cherrelle

Cherrelle is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists

and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “I Didn’t Mean to Turn You On”, “Saturday Love”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1984-present

68. Alannah Myles

Alannah Myles is an acclaimed rock and blues singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Black Velvet”, “Just Once”
• Awards: 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1990-present

69. Mica Paris

Mica Paris is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “My One Temptation”, “Where Is the Love”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1988-present

70. Lisa Stansfield

Lisa Stansfield is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “All Around the World”, “People Hold On”
• Awards: 1 Brit Award
• Years Active: 1989-present

71. Heather Headley

Heather Headley is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “In My Mind”, “I Wish I Wasn’t”
• Awards: 1 Tony Award, 1 Grammy Award
• Years Active: 1997-present

72. Joi

Joi is an acclaimed R&B and soul singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Sunshine and the Rain”, “Lick”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1994-present

73. Taral Hicks

Taral Hicks is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “A La Menthe”, “He’s the Reason”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1996-present

74. Zhané

Zhané is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal duo known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Hey Mr. DJ”, “Sending My Love”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1993-1999

75. Jade

Jade is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Don’t Walk Away”, “Every Day of the Week”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1992-1998

76. Groove Theory

Groove Theory is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal duo known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Tell Me”, “Keep Tryin'”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1994-1998

77. Adina Howard

Adina Howard is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Freak Like Me,” “T-Shirt & Panties.”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1995-present

78. Shola Ama

Shola Ama is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “You’re the One I Love”, “Make It Good”
• Awards: 1 Brit Award
• Years Active: 1997-present

79. Divine

Divine is an acclaimed R&B and pop singer known for her powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

She has influenced many contemporary artists and is considered one of the greatest singers of her generation.

• Famous songs: “Lately” and “Predictable.”
• Awards: None
• Years Active: 1998-present

80. Eternal

Eternal is an acclaimed R&B and pop vocal group known for their powerful vocals and ability to interpret various musical styles.

They have influenced many contemporary artists and are considered one of the greatest vocal groups of their generation.

• Famous songs: “Stay”, “Just a Step from Heaven.”
• Awards: 1 Brit Award
• Years Active: 1992-2000

The impact of these singers can still be felt today, as their music continues to inspire and resonate with listeners of all ages.

Social and Cultural Impact

The influential Black female singers of the 1980s and 1990s profoundly impacted society and culture, extending far beyond their musical achievements.

These artists used their platforms to address social issues, promote empowerment, and challenge stereotypes.

• Artists like Janet Jackson, Queen Latifah, and Salt-N-Pepa tackled racism, sexism, and body positivity in their music.
• Whitney Houston’s iconic performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the 1991 Super Bowl symbolized national pride and unity.

Many of these singers also became fashion icons, setting trends and inspiring Black women to express themselves through their style.

• From Janet Jackson’s military-inspired jackets to Tina Turner’s bold stage outfits, these artists showcased the diversity and creativity of Black fashion.
• Moreover, these women’s success in a male-dominated industry inspired future generations of Black female artists.
• They proved that Black women could succeed and thrive in the music business, paving the way for the likes of Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Alicia Keys.

These Black female singers’ social and cultural impact cannot be overstated.

They empowered Black women, challenged societal norms, and left a lasting legacy that continues to influence and inspire today.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy and influence of the Black female singers from the 1980s and 1990s continue to shape the music industry and inspire new generations of artists.

These women set the standard for the following:

• Vocal prowess
• Stage presence
• Artistic innovation
• Leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Artists like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Toni Braxton redefined the power ballad, showcasing their incredible vocal range and emotional depth.

Their songs have become timeless classics, still widely celebrated and covered by artists today.

The influence of these singers can be seen in the work of countless contemporary artists, from Beyoncé and Rihanna to Adele and Ariana Grande.

Many of today’s biggest stars cite these ’80s and ’90s icons as their primary inspirations, crediting them for shaping their musical styles and careers.

The legacy of these Black female singers extends beyond music.

As we look back on the incredible contributions of these artists, it is clear that their legacy will endure for generations to come.

They changed the face of music and left an indelible impact on society and culture, cementing their place as true icons of their time.

Conclusion

The influential Black female singers of the 1980s and 1990s have left an enduring mark on the music industry and society.

From Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey’s soaring ballads to Janet Jackson and Queen Latifah’s empowering anthems, these artists dominated the charts, broke barriers, and inspired generations.

Their incredible voices, unique styles, and dedication to their craft have made them true icons whose influence can still be felt today.

As we celebrate their legacy, it’s important to recognize their profound impact on shaping popular culture, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for future Black female artists.

Their music resonates with listeners of all ages, serving as a testament to their timeless talent and the enduring power of their artistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Are Some of The Most Influential Black Female Singers from The ’80s and ’90s?

Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Tina Turner, Mariah Carey, Anita Baker, Sade, Lauryn Hill, and Erykah Badu are some of the most influential Black female singers from the ’80s and ’90s.

What Impact Did Black Female Singers of The ’80s and ’90s Have on The Music Industry?

Black female singers of the ’80s and ’90s dominated charts, broke barriers, and paved the way for future artists by showcasing their incredible vocal talents and unique styles.

How Did These Singers Influence Modern Music and Contemporary Artists?

These singers influenced modern music and contemporary artists by setting new standards for vocal performance, songwriting, and stage presence, inspiring generations of artists across various genres.

What Are the Best Albums or Songs from Black Female Artists from The ’80s and ’90s?

Some of the best albums and songs include Whitney Houston’s self-titled debut, Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation 1814,” Tina Turner’s “Private Dancer,” and Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.”

How Did These Singers Break Racial and Gender Barriers in The Music Industry?

These singers broke racial and gender barriers by achieving unprecedented success, challenging stereotypes, and opening doors for future Black female artists in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry.