14 Unsung Musicians Who Influenced Popular Music

In the world of music, many influential artists often remain in the shadows, overshadowed by the more famous names they inspired. These unsung musicians have significantly shaped popular music, leaving an indelible mark on various genres. Their contributions, though not always widely recognized, have influenced countless artists and helped to mold the sounds we love today. Here, we celebrate the legacies of 14 such musicians, highlighting their unique impacts and enduring influence on the music industry.

Sister Rosetta Tharpe 

Often hailed as the “Godmother of Rock and Roll,” Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a pioneering guitarist and vocalist. Her unique blend of gospel and electric guitar in the 1930s and 1940s laid the groundwork for rock and roll. Despite her profound influence, she remains less known than her male counterparts. Tharpe’s energetic performances and guitar solos inspired legends like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. Her contribution to music is undeniable, yet she never received the widespread acclaim she deserved.

Big Mama Thornton 

Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton was a powerful blues singer and songwriter. In 1952, she recorded “Hound Dog,” which became a massive hit when Elvis Presley covered it. Thornton’s raw, soulful voice and commanding stage presence influenced countless artists in rock, blues, and R&B. Despite her significant impact, she often didn’t receive the recognition or financial rewards she deserved. Her legacy endures through the artists she inspired and the music she created.

Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup 

Arthur Crudup is often remembered as the man who gave Elvis Presley his start. Crudup wrote and originally recorded “That’s All Right,” which became Elvis’s breakout hit. A blues singer and guitarist, Crudup’s music laid the foundation for rock and roll. Despite his crucial role in music history, he struggled financially and legally to gain royalties from his work. His influence is evident in the countless artists who have covered his songs.

Link Wray 

Link Wray is often credited with inventing the power chord, a fundamental element of rock music. His instrumental hit “Rumble” in 1958 was revolutionary, featuring distorted guitar sounds that influenced countless rock musicians. Wray’s innovative techniques predated the heavy rock sound of the 1960s and 1970s. Despite his pioneering contributions, he never achieved the same level of fame as many who followed in his footsteps. His work continues to resonate with guitarists and rock enthusiasts worldwide.

Carla Thomas 

Known as the “Queen of Memphis Soul,” Carla Thomas was a significant figure in the 1960s soul scene. Her duets with Otis Redding and solo hits like “B-A-B-Y” showcased her versatile vocal talent. Thomas’s influence extended beyond her music; she helped shape the sound of Stax Records, a cornerstone of Southern soul music. Despite her contributions, she often remains overshadowed by her male counterparts. Her soulful voice and powerful performances continue to inspire.

Nina Simone 

Nina Simone was a classically trained pianist and singer whose work transcended genre boundaries. Her powerful voice and emotional delivery made songs like “Feeling Good” and “I Put a Spell on You” timeless. Simone’s music addressed social and political issues, making her an icon of the civil rights movement. Despite her profound impact on music and culture, she faced significant personal and professional challenges. Her legacy endures through the many artists she inspired and the lasting relevance of her music.

Terry Callier 

Terry Callier was a unique voice in the Chicago music scene, blending folk, jazz, and soul. His introspective lyrics and innovative arrangements garnered critical acclaim but limited commercial success. Callier’s work in the 1970s influenced a new generation of musicians in the 1990s and 2000s. Despite his limited mainstream recognition, his music continues to be celebrated for its depth and originality. Callier’s influence can be heard in the works of contemporary artists across various genres.

Odetta 

Odetta Holmes, known simply as Odetta, was a folk singer with a powerful voice and a commitment to social justice. Her interpretations of traditional folk songs influenced the 1960s folk revival. Artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez cited her as a significant influence on their music. Despite her impact, Odetta never achieved the same level of fame as those she inspired. Her contributions to music and civil rights continue to be recognized and celebrated.

Linda Ronstadt 

Linda Ronstadt is a versatile singer whose career spans rock, country, and Latin music. Her powerful voice and genre-defying approach influenced a wide range of artists. Despite her success, Ronstadt often doesn’t receive the same level of acclaim as her male contemporaries. Her contributions to music are vast, including bringing attention to traditional Mexican music through her albums in the 1980s. Ronstadt’s influence and talent continue to be celebrated by musicians and fans alike.

Mickey Baker 

Mickey Baker was a guitarist and songwriter whose work in the 1950s and 1960s influenced rock, R&B, and jazz. His distinctive guitar style can be heard on countless recordings from the era. Baker’s instructional books also helped countless musicians develop their skills. Despite his significant contributions, he remains relatively unknown outside of musician circles. His influence on popular music is profound and lasting.

Roky Erickson

Roky Erickson was a pioneer of psychedelic rock as the frontman of The 13th Floor Elevators. His innovative sound and distinctive voice influenced the development of the genre in the 1960s. Despite his contributions, Erickson faced significant personal and legal challenges that limited his career. His music has since been rediscovered and appreciated by new generations of fans. Erickson’s legacy endures through his groundbreaking work and influence on psychedelic rock.

Betty Davis 

Betty Davis was a funk singer and songwriter known for her bold style and powerful performances. Her work in the 1970s challenged gender norms and pushed the boundaries of funk music. Despite her influence, Davis never achieved mainstream success. Her music has since been celebrated for its originality and impact on later artists. Davis’s fearless approach to music and performance continues to inspire.

Big Star 

Big Star was a power pop band in the early 1970s that received critical acclaim but little commercial success. Their melodic sound and introspective lyrics influenced countless alternative and indie rock bands. Despite their lack of mainstream recognition, Big Star’s music has become highly influential and widely respected. The band’s legacy endures through the many artists who cite them as an inspiration. Big Star’s story is one of talent and influence overcoming commercial failure.

Gil Scott-Heron 

Gil Scott-Heron was a poet, musician, and spoken-word performer whose work in the 1970s laid the groundwork for hip hop and neo-soul. His socially conscious lyrics and innovative musical style influenced a generation of artists. Despite his significant impact, Scott-Heron often remains underappreciated in mainstream music history. His work continues to be relevant and influential, addressing issues of race, politics, and social justice. Scott-Heron’s legacy is celebrated for its depth and lasting impact on music and culture.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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