Have you ever wondered what live entertainment would be like without the contributions of African-American performers? You don't? Fortunately, you'll never have to find out because even from the early days, black entertainers have always been at the heart of African-American culture.

From the lively stages of the 19th century to the bright lights of modern-day concerts, these entertainers have left an indelible mark on live performance. Over time, they not only entertained but also pushed for social change, using music, dance, and theater. Today, these performers are global icons, continuing the legacies of those who paved the way before them.

Let's discuss this incredible journey of black performers over the years and how their art has influenced the entertainment world.

Minstrel Shows and Early Performances in the 19th Century

Early Performances and Minstrel Shows

Minstrel shows were a form of entertainment that mixed music, comedy, and dance. While these shows often involved offensive and racist depictions of blacks, they also allowed a rare opportunity for them to show off their talent. And this is where many African-American performers began their entertainment journey in the 19th century.

One of the earliest and most famous African-American entertainers was Bert Williams, who rose to stardom as a comedian and singer. He broke barriers as one of the first black performers to become a major star in vaudeville. Although he still faced racism during his career, Williams' humor and clever performances made him a beloved figure.

The Early 20th Century Introduced Jazz and Vaudeville

As the 19th century rolled out into the 20th, vaudeville slowly became a popular form of entertainment. This theatrical genre was often comical, mixing pantomime, dancing, dialogue, and song. Alongside vaudeville, jazz and musical theater also became popular, and soon Afro-Americans began making waves.

Soon came Josephine Baker, one of the most famous performers of the early 1900s. She became a sensation with her captivating dances, including her famous "banana dance."" Josephine often performed in European clubs and theaters with her glamorous stage presence.

Then came Louis Armstrong, famously called "Satchmo,"" to become a key figure in live jazz performances. He was both an excellent trumpet player and a charismatic live performer who catapulted jazz into a global sensation.

The Mid-20th Century: Las Vegas and Casino Shows

The mid-20th century was when African-American entertainers became sought-after on casino stages. Although this was first met with racial segregation, the talent of these artists eventually broke through these barriers. Below are some top stars who graced casino stages, especially those in Las Vegas:

  • Nat King Cole: Nat was one of the biggest stars of the 20th century. He had a smooth voice and sophisticated style that made him a popular figure in gambling rooms during the 1950s. Due to Nat King Cole's charm, he was able to bridge racial divides and open doors for future black entertainers.
  • Sammy Davis Jr.: Next in line as an esteemed member of the black entertainers community was Sammy Davis. He was a member of the iconic Rat Pack, which included Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, after which he became famous for his versatility as a singer, dancer, actor, and comedian.
  • Lena Horne: Lena was an elegant singer who dazzled audiences with her live performances in nightclubs and casinos. She was well-known as a glamorous entertainer in her era and was especially famous for her signature song, "Stormy Weather."

Late 20th Century: Soul, R&B, and More Casino Legends

As the 1960s and 1970s arrived, African-American entertainers continued to dominate casino shows with the rise of soul and R&B music. Examples of these artists include:

  • Diana Ross and the Supremes: Diana Ross was the lead singer of The Supremes before she became a solo artist. As a solo artist, she transformed into a live performance legend, using her soulful voice to secure gigs at gambling venues and theaters around the world.
  • Gladys Knight: Together with her band "The Pips," Gladys Knight became a favorite fixture in Las Vegas casinos. She became known as the "Empress of Soul," entertaining audiences with hits like "Neither One of Us" and "Midnight Train To Georgia."
  • ames Brown: The "Godfather of Soul" electrified audiences with his explosive dance moves and powerful voice. Brown's live shows thus became legendary in venues across the U.S., including casinos.

Of course, how can anyone talk about the late 20th century without mentioning the man, the king, the legend, Michael Jackson? He first rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the Jackson 5 before becoming a solo superstar in the 1980s. Michael's influence then continued through the 1990s and into the 2000s, making him an influential figure in pop music, after which fans dubbed him the "King of Pop."

It is indisputable that Michael Jackson revolutionized pop music and performance art for the black community. He blended different genres—pop, rock, soul, and funk—while drawing inspiration from African-American musical traditions. Michael's onstage performances also featured his innovative dance moves, such as the moonwalk, which set new standards for entertainers. Overall, he brought a theatrical quality to pop concerts, making live performances an essential part of an artist's appeal.

Present-Day Black Performers in the Spotlight

In the present day, African-American entertainers continue to shine on casino stages, especially in Las Vegas. For instance, Usher, one of the biggest R&B stars of the 2000s, headlined his residency in Las Vegas. On numerous occasions, he has performed his hits for sold-out crowds at top casinos. With a smooth voice and electrifying dance steps, it wasn't difficult for Usher to become one of the most popular live performers of the modern era.

Another modern icon of African-American entertainers is Bruno Mars, who has also become a key figure in live casino shows. Bruno Mars was known for his blend of pop, R&B, and funk, which he has performed several times in Las Vegas alongside other black entertainers.

Last Dance

The influence of the abovementioned African-American performers on live entertainment is undeniable. They brought jazz, blues, soul, and R&B to the forefront of pop culture, using their incredible talent to turn casino stages into iconic performances. As such, these artists have not only entertained but have also broken down racial barriers, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment world.

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