Photo by EBAR

The Sound of Legacy: Elevating Black History in Music

Hey, I’m Zacchae’us Paul, and I’m excited to launch this new blog where I’ll be exploring the powerful role that Black history has played—and continues to play—in shaping sound recording and composition. As a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and educator, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing firsthand how music can be both a tool for personal expression and a vehicle for social change. But beyond my own work, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the broader legacy of Black musicians who have paved the way for what music is today.


Growing up, I was always surrounded by the sounds of Black music—whether it was jazz, gospel, blues, hip-hop, or soul. These genres have deeply shaped who I am as an artist, and the more I’ve learned about the incredible contributions of Black musicians, the more I’ve felt a responsibility to carry that legacy forward. From the innovation of jazz pioneers like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie to the boundary-pushing work of contemporary artists like Kendrick Lamar and Melanie Charles, Black musicians have always been at the forefront of shaping the soundscape we know today.


But it’s not just about the musicians themselves—it’s also about the people behind the scenes who helped make this art form possible. This blog will also explore the history of Black composers, producers, and sound engineers who have often been overlooked in traditional narratives about music. Whether it’s through the contributions of Sam Cooke and his pivotal role in shaping the music industry or the overlooked genius of Mile Davis’ collaborators in the studio, these figures have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what music can be. It’s important that we honor their work, not just as artists but also as innovators who changed the way music is created, recorded, and heard.


For me, the journey of discovering Black history in music has been both a personal and collective experience. I’m part of a new wave of jazz artists, with my upcoming label debut “Better Dayz” being executive produced by the legendary Terri Lyne Carrington. But like many artists of my generation, I’m influenced by a mix of genres—hip-hop, jazz, soul, electronic music, and everything in between. It’s the blending of these genres that excites me, and I think it’s an expression of the way Black artists have always challenged musical boundaries and created something entirely new in the process.


This blog will be a space where I dive deep into the artists and movements that have shaped and continue to shape the future of music. I’ll explore both the well-known figures and the unsung heroes who have made lasting impacts on sound, and I’ll share insights from my own journey as a musician trying to find my voice in a constantly evolving industry.


In addition to celebrating Black artists, this blog will also highlight the important conversations happening in music today—whether it’s about representation, the ongoing struggle for justice, or the role of activism in artistic expression. As I’ve learned through my work teaching music in places like underprivileged schools and homeless shelters, music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a tool for healing, community, and personal growth. In my own work, I’ve been inspired by the themes of empowerment, reparations, and resilience, which are central to the music I create and the movements I support.


I’m excited to write about the artists I know, like Melanie Charles, Morgan Guerin, and Terri Lyne Carrington, whose music has directly influenced me. But I’m also thrilled to share stories about those I’ve yet to meet and the ways they’re continuing to push Black music into new realms. I’ll also be writing about the historical figures who laid the groundwork, from the creation of gospel to the evolution of jazz, hip-hop, and beyond.


This space is meant to foster a conversation about the power of sound to elevate culture, tell stories, and unite communities. Whether you’re an artist, a fan of music, or someone looking to learn more about Black history in music, I hope you’ll find something here that resonates with you. Let’s explore the sound of our past and look forward to the future together.


So, welcome to my blog, and let’s take this journey through Black history in sound—one note at a time.



Written by: Zacchae’us Paul

Posted on: Nov. 10 2024