The Views: Black Music Archive highlighting the history of black Musicians
Milik Kashad - Instagram
The Black Music Archive is committed to preserving and celebrating the diverse history of Black music across various genres, including gospel, blues, soul, hip-hop, R&B, and more. Created by Milik Kashad, an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, educator, and music historian, this channel provides in-depth videos that examine the significant contributions of Black artists and innovators to music. Featuring historical retrospectives, artist profiles, and genre analysis, the Black Music Archive delivers a comprehensive examination of the cultural impact of Black music, spotlighting both renowned figures and lesser-known talents. Whether you are a music aficionado, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the roots of popular music, this channel serves as an invaluable resource for uncovering the narratives behind the sounds that have influenced the global music landscape.
Handle: All of the videos can be found on The Black Music Archive’s YouTube channel under the handle @BlackMusicArchive. The channel's Instagram handle is @theblackmusicarchive, and Milik Kashad's personal Instagram handle is @milikkashad.
Series: While the channel features many series, some of his most popular is The Voice, which deep dives into Black singers, and genres of music. The Voice is a series where Kashad analyzes the vocal techniques of Legendary singers who have shaped genres.
Creators: The channel was run by Milik Kashad until August 13, 2024, when he announced he would be ending the channel.
Platform: The videos are all on the Black Music Archive YouTube channel.
Genre/Genres: The channel falls under the educational, and video essay genres.
Subscribers/Followers: The Black Music Archive currently has 130k subscribers on Youtube and 151k subscribers on Instagram.
The Black Music Archive YouTube channel functions as a digital museum that highlights the profound legacy and impact of Black musicians and artists. Through a collection of video essays, live performance recordings, and many other videos highlighting artists in different ways, the channel showcases the narratives of iconic artists, and the cultural movements catalyzed by Black musicians.
For instance, videos like "Let's Stay Together: Margie Joseph's Story" , which highlight a particular artist can be seen. This video highlights the life and musical journey of Margie Joseph, a prominent Black R&B and soul singer. Known for her powerful voice and contributions to the genre, Margie Joseph's career is a testament to the legacy of Black artists in shaping soul music. The video focuses on her rise to fame, including her collaborations with legendary figures such as Isaac Hayes and her time at Stax Records. It provides insight into her unique vocal style, the cultural and social context of her music, and the impact she had on the soul music landscape during the 1960s and 1970s.
The most viewed video, “Why The New Girls Can't Sing: A Video Essay,” explores the evolving standards of vocal ability in modern music. This video examines the shift from traditional vocal powerhouses to modern pop stars, questioning what has changed in terms of vocal technique, and the industry's approach to vocal performance. The essay provides an insightful critique, drawing comparisons between classical vocalists known for their exceptional skills and the new generation of singers who may prioritize style or image over vocal ability. It also discusses broader cultural trends and the impact of music production techniques, such as auto-tune and heavy studio editing, on the authenticity of vocal performance
What sets the Black Music Archive apart is its commitment to telling both well-known and lesser-told stories. While iconic performances like Jennifer Holliday’s rendition of “And I Am Telling You” provide moments of universal recognition, the channel also shines a spotlight on overlooked artists such as Margie Joseph, whose career in soul music is explored in depth through their videos. This balance of celebrating legends while uncovering hidden gems makes the channel a useful platform for honoring the full spectrum of Black music.
In addition to showcasing performances and artist biographies, the channel dives into technical and cultural discussions. Videos like “Technique Talk with Soprano Nia Drummond” analyze the intricacies of vocal performance, while others offer historical insights into how Black music has shaped and been shaped by societal movements. This multidimensional approach ensures the content is not only engaging but also educational, appealing to music enthusiasts, historians, and aspiring artists alike.
The personality of the creator of the Black Music Archive, Milik Kashad, is a driving force behind the channel's appeal. Kashad’s passion for Black music radiates through each video. As a storyteller, the host blends deep knowledge with an engaging narrative style, making complex histories accessible to a broad audience. His dedication to uncovering hidden stories and celebrating the artistry of Black musicians reflects a genuine love for the subject.
The audience of the Black Music Archive can be attributed to its unique ability to combine education, entertainment, and cultural knowledge. By focusing exclusively on Black music, the channel carves out a niche that appeals to viewers seeking meaningful, historically rich content. Its mix of emotional storytelling, technical insights, and untold stories creates a deep connection with audiences who are interested in music and black history. The host’s passionate and relatable personality further strengthens this bond, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity. Additionally, the channel’s commitment to uncovering overlooked artists while celebrating iconic figures resonates with viewers who appreciate a balanced and comprehensive approach. Together, these elements make the Black Music Archive not just a source of content, but a trusted space for preserving and celebrating the legacy of Black music, driving its consistent audience growth.
