Mark Anthony Neal

Pryor's use of the word represented something valiant.

The intersection of Black music and queer identity.

In 1968 Gaye shifted his musical vision to give voice to impoverished Black urban communities and the rising dissent against involvement in the Vietnam War.

Don Cornelius had faith that Black culture would attract a mass audience, and a belief that Black culture should be in the hands of Black people.

In 1971, a wave of Black artists released explosive new work that put its politics front and center.

Comedian Richard Pryor's performance of Blackness throughout his career.

Public Enemy's "Fight the Power," featured in Spike Lee's "Do the Right Thing," embodied many sentiments of a black generation.

The summer's hit songs offered a glimpse into the changing views of Black America.