The Rhythm of Resilience: The History of Black Music in Seattle
Photos provided by the MOHAI, Al Smith Collection as well as Supreme La Rock, Tiffany Wilson, Kuddie Fresh, Roc Phizzle, Jordan Somers, The Black Tones, Breaks and Swells, and Yonny.
By Emma Schwichtenberg
The Black Music sound in Seattle is not merely a singular genre or style; rather, it's a complex blend of diverse musical influences and histories layered over more than a century. This sonic tapestry has been woven by the hands and voices of countless musicians, each contributing their own unique story and perspective to the city's musical narrative.
From the early days of jazz and blues resonating through the smoky clubs of Jackson Street in the Central District to the gritty punk rock scene that emerged in the underground venues of Capitol Hill, Seattle's sound has continually evolved, reflecting the shifting social, cultural, and economic dynamics of the city.
At the heart of this sonic evolution lies the resilience and creativity of Black musicians who have played a central role in shaping Seattle's musical identity. From the swinging rhythms of jazz legends like Quincy Jones and Ernestine Anderson to the soulful grooves of Ray Charles and the groundbreaking guitar wizardry of Jimi Hendrix, Black artists have left an indelible imprint on the city's musical landscape. Among these influential figures, Frank Waldron stands out as an icon and master of influence. Not only was he a teacher and mentor to Quincy Jones and others, but he was also an amazing musician and composer in his own right. Waldron's contributions to the jazz scene in Seattle were profound, from his performances in underground clubs to his establishment of The Waldron School of Trumpet and Saxophone, where he nurtured the talents of budding musicians like Buddy Catlett and Quincy Jones. His self-published records and instructional book, "Frank D. Waldron Syncopated Classic," served as a testament to his musical mastery and educational legacy. Waldron's studio on Jackson Street in Seattle became a hub for the burgeoning jazz scene in the area, further solidifying his impact on the city's musical heritage.
As the decades passed, Seattle's sound continued to evolve, embracing new genres and styles while retaining its gritty authenticity and DIY ethos. The rise of grunge in the 1990s catapulted Seattle onto the global stage, with bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden defining a generation and cementing the city's reputation as a hotbed of musical innovation.
Today, Seattle's music scene continues to thrive, with a diverse array of artists pushing boundaries and breaking new ground across genres ranging from hip-hop and indie rock to electronic and experimental music. Yet, amidst this diversity, the echoes of the past still resonate, reminding us of the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped the city's sound.
Early Beginnings: Jazz Era (1920s-1940s)
While the Jazz Era is generally considered spanning the 1920s-1940s, the earliest jazz performance was June 10, 1918 at Washington Hall with Lillian Smith's Jazz Band performing at a NAACP benefit.
The 1920s marked a significant period of migration for Black Americans, particularly from the Southern states to the industrial cities of the North and West, including Seattle. This movement, known as the Great Migration, brought thousands of African Americans seeking economic opportunities and fleeing racial disparities.
In Seattle, this influx of Black residents led to the establishment of vibrant communities in neighborhoods like the Central District. As Black communities began to take root in Seattle, early venues and social clubs became essential hubs for cultural expression and entertainment. Among these venues were theaters and clubs that hosted vaudeville shows, a popular form of variety entertainment that featured a mix of musical performances, comedy acts, and theatrical presentations. These vaudeville shows provided a platform for emerging Black artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences, though it should be noted that Black people were not always welcome in the audience. Despite this exclusion, Black performers played a crucial role in the development of vaudeville and often brought unique cultural expressions to the stage, enriching the art form and influencing American entertainment.
Early venues and social clubs played a crucial role in nurturing the burgeoning Black music scene. These spaces provided opportunities for musicians to perform, audiences to gather, and communities to connect. Places like the Black and Tan Club and the Washington Social Club became hubs of cultural activity, hosting performances by local and touring artists and serving as important gathering places for Seattle's Black residents.
During this era, Seattle's jazz scene flourished, nurturing not only renowned figures like Quincy Jones, Ernestine Anderson, and Ray Charles but also a host of other talented individuals who contributed significantly to the city's musical landscape. Among these unsung heroes were Bumps Blackwell, Edythe Turnham, Floyd Standifer, Patti Bown, and Ruby Bishop, each leaving an indelible mark on Seattle's jazz heritage.
Quincy Jones, a prodigious talent from an early age, honed his skills as a trumpeter and arranger in Seattle before embarking on a legendary career as a composer, producer, and bandleader. His contributions to jazz, pop, and film music have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the pantheon of musical greats.
Ernestine Anderson, known for her rich, soulful voice and impeccable phrasing, began her career singing in Seattle clubs like the Black and Tan Club before finding success on the national stage. With a career spanning over six decades, Anderson left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, earning accolades and admiration from audiences and fellow musicians alike.
Ray Charles, whose distinctive blend of R&B, gospel, and jazz revolutionized popular music, got his start playing piano in Seattle's clubs and bars. It was here that he developed his signature sound and style, laying the groundwork for a career that would make him one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Bumps Blackwell, a native of Seattle, led a jazz ensemble in the late 1940s, counting luminaries like pianist Ray Charles and trumpeter Quincy Jones among its members. Blackwell later ventured to Hollywood, where his talents as an arranger and producer at Specialty Records shaped the sound of rhythm and blues and rock and roll, producing hits like "Tutti Frutti" and "You Send Me."
Edythe Turnham and her husband, Floyd, were pivotal figures in Seattle's jazz scene, establishing the Edythe Turnham Orchestra as a cornerstone of the city's musical community. Meanwhile, Floyd Standifer, born in Wilmington, North Carolina, became a respected jazz musician in Seattle, showcasing his talents on tenor saxophone, trumpet, and vocals while leading the Floyd Standifer Quartet.
Patti Bown, a Seattle native, made waves in the jazz world with her virtuosic piano playing and compositional prowess. After studying at the University of Washington, Bown embarked on a career in New York City, collaborating with luminaries like Quincy Jones and recording with jazz icons such as Gene Ammons and Duke Ellington. Her compositions, recorded by esteemed artists like Sarah Vaughan and Duke Ellington, solidified her reputation as a significant figure in jazz.
Ruby Bishop, beloved in Seattle's jazz community, enchanted audiences with her musical brilliance and infectious personality. From her humble beginnings on a Thurston County farm to her induction into the Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame in 2016, Bishop's journey epitomized the spirit of Seattle's vibrant jazz scene. Her performances, characterized by spirited renditions of jazz standards and captivating showmanship, endeared her to audiences and fellow musicians alike, ensuring her place as an icon in Seattle's musical legacy.
Venues like the Black and Tan Club and the Washington Social Club provided a platform for these artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences. These spaces not only nurtured the careers of local musicians but also helped to shape the sound and identity of Seattle's music scene during the jazz era. However, beyond these iconic venues, Seattle boasted several other hot spots where the city's vibrant music culture thrived. Locations such as the Blue Note, which also housed the Black Musicians Union, Al's Lucky Hour, Rocking Chair, China Pheasant, Chinese Garden (commonly known as the "Bucket of Blood"), Rizal Club, and 908 Club were frequented by jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. These establishments served as hubs where musicians could jam, audiences could immerse themselves in live performances, and the essence of Seattle's jazz era truly came to life.
Rhythm and Blues to Funk (1950s-1980s)
The post-World War II era brought about significant changes in the music landscape of Seattle's Black community. As the influence of jazz began to wane, a new sound emerged, characterized by the fusion of rhythm and blues (R&B) with elements of gospel music. This transition reflected the evolving tastes of audiences and the changing socio-cultural dynamics of the time.
Gospel music, with its soul-stirring rhythms and emotive vocal delivery, played a pivotal role in shaping the emerging R&B scene in Seattle. The spirited performances in churches and gospel choirs resonated deeply with musicians, inspiring them to infuse their music with elements of spiritual fervor and soulfulness.
During this period, the seeds of musical genius were sown in Seattle, with artists like Jimi Hendrix beginning their illustrious careers. Before achieving global fame as a pioneering rock guitarist, Hendrix honed his craft in the local R&B circuit, playing in bands like the Rocking Kings and the Velvetones. His early experiences in Seattle's vibrant music scene would later influence his groundbreaking sound and innovative approach to guitar playing.
Seattle's musical landscape also saw the emergence of artists deeply rooted in gospel traditions, exemplified by the legendary Patrinell Wright. Wright, affectionately known as Seattle’s ‘first lady of gospel’, was strongly influenced by her church upbringing. She transitioned from R&B singing to become a monumental figure in gospel music. Founding and directing the Total Experience Gospel Choir at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in 1973, Wright played an instrumental role in nurturing the musical talents of local youth. Her impact extended beyond the church walls, reaching communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Through her unwavering dedication to gospel music and her exemplary singing voice, Wright centered Black heritage, leaving a legacy of love and inspiration for future generations to cherish.
The 1960s and 1970s witnessed the emergence of funk and soul music as dominant forces in the Black music scene of Seattle. Cultural shifts and community events played a crucial role in shaping the sound and ethos of this era, as artists sought to capture the zeitgeist of the times through their music.
Prominent figures like Larry Mizell, a multi-talented musician, producer, and arranger, played a pivotal role in defining the funk and soul sound of Seattle. Mizell's innovative production techniques and visionary approach to music composition helped shape the sonic landscape of the city, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition.
Among the luminaries of Seattle's funk scene was Frank P. Barrow, whose dedication to radio and community service earned him widespread acclaim. Barrow's illustrious career spanned six decades, during which he became a recognizable voice on stations like KZAM, KYAC, KRIZ, and KYIZ. His commitment to empowering Black voices and fostering community cohesion was exemplified by his leadership during a pivotal strike against KING, which ultimately led to the establishment of the West Coast’s first independently-run Black radio station.
Similarly, Robert L. Scott blazed a trail as Seattle's first African-American DJ on a Top-40 station, KJR-AM (950). Scott's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for radio were evident from a young age, as he convinced the manager of KUOW-FM to let him host a jazz show at just 14 years old. Throughout his diverse 30-year career, Scott brought imagination and intensity to every role he undertook, leaving an enduring legacy in Seattle's broadcasting community.
Gordon Berry DeWitty, known as the "world's youngest DJ," emerged as a prodigious talent on Seattle's burgeoning funk scene. Despite being blind since childhood, DeWitty's musical prowess was unmatched, and he quickly rose to prominence as a pianist and composer. His band, the Living End, gained recognition with the release of "Skyride" in 1966, and DeWitty's collaborations with iconic artists like Bobby Womack and Earth, Wind & Fire solidified his status as a musical luminary.
Alongside these influential individuals, iconic bands like Cold, Bold & Together, Cookin' Bag, Black on White Affair, and Robbie Hill's Family Affair defined the sound of Seattle's funk era. Their innovative blend of soul, jazz, and rhythm captivated audiences and propelled the city's music scene to national prominence.
As Seattle's funk scene continued to evolve, it served as a testament to the city's rich musical heritage and the enduring legacy of its pioneering artists. Through their creativity, passion, and dedication to their craft, these individuals and bands left an indelible imprint on Seattle's cultural landscape, shaping the future of Black music in the city and beyond.
It was during this time that a new generation of DJs, producers, and musicians began to emerge in Seattle, deeply influenced by the sounds of the past. Artists like Supreme La Rock, Vitamin D, Tiffany Wilson, Kuddie Fresh, Roc Phizzle, and Jimmy Scratch James grew up immersed in the rich musical heritage of their predecessors, and its influence is still present in their music today.
Hip-Hop and Contemporary Scene (1990s-Present)
Seattle's Black music scene also owes much to Jonathan Moore, known by his stage name Wordsayer, who was a rapper, DJ, and producer born on April 21, 1969, in Seattle, Washington. Moore, often referred to as Seattle's "hip-hop ambassador" and "cultural mayor," was a pivotal figure in the Northwest hip-hop scene. His image adorns the signal box at the corner of 23rd Ave & E Jefferson, adjacent to Ezell's, symbolizing his iconic status.
In the early 1990s, Seattle witnessed the burgeoning hip-hop scene spearheaded by trailblazing artists like Sir Mix-a-Lot, whose groundbreaking singles, including "Baby Got Back," propelled him to national fame and put Seattle on the map of hip-hop culture. Mix-a-Lot's success not only showcased the city's talent but also laid the foundation for a thriving hip-hop community. Jonathan Moore furthered this legacy by founding the group Source of Labor in 1989 and becoming a cornerstone of Seattle's second wave of hip-hop.
Growing up in the Columbia City neighborhood, Moore attended Roosevelt High School before moving to Atlanta to attend Morehouse College. Upon returning to Seattle, he formed Source of Labor with his brother Upendo Tookas and friend DJ Kamikaze, later joined by Vitamin D. Moore's politically conscious lyrics and efforts to promote hip-hop downtown, coupled with his work to overturn restrictive laws like the Teen Dance Ordinance, made significant contributions to the scene. He managed emerging artists and promoted all-ages venues, helping to sustain and grow Seattle's hip-hop community.
Jonathan Moore's influence extended to managing groups like THEESatisfaction and Shabazz Palaces, and he co-hosted Sunday Night Sound Sessions on KUBE 93. His legacy continued until his passing on March 8, 2017, leaving an indelible mark on Seattle's music history. His work and memory are celebrated by the community he helped build and the artists he inspired.
Since then, Seattle's Black music scene has continued to evolve, embracing a diverse range of genres beyond hip-hop. The growth and diversification into modern R&B and neo-soul have expanded the city's musical landscape, attracting a new wave of artists pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
Contemporary musicians like Shaina Shepherd, Yonny, and Parisalexa are a part of a new generation emerging in Seattle's music scene, infusing their unique styles and perspectives into the city's vibrant cultural tapestry. Shepherd's soulful vocals, Yonny's introspective lyricism, and Paris Alexa's eclectic sound have captivated audiences, earning them recognition both locally and nationally.
Bands like Breaks and Swells have garnered attention for their fusion of soul, funk, and jazz, contributing to the eclectic mix of sounds that define Seattle's contemporary music scene. Their dynamic performances and innovative approach to music composition have solidified their place within the city's rich musical heritage. Ayron Jones, born on August 23, 1986, in Seattle, Washington, is another key figure in this scene. An American guitarist, singer, and songwriter, Jones blends elements of grunge, rock, hip-hop, and soul in his music. After gaining recognition performing in local venues with his trio Ayron Jones and the Way, he caught the attention of producer Sir Mix-a-Lot and eventually signed with John Varvatos/Big Machine, releasing his first major album on May 21, 2021.
The Black Tones, founded by twins Eva and Cedric Walker, welcome audiences into their musical family every time they take the stage. This Seattle-based rock 'n' roll band has grown from humble beginnings in their grandmother’s basement to receiving recognition from Guitar World, AfroPunk, KEXP, American Songwriter, Under the Radar, and NPR, which noted, “The Black Tones are redefining Seattle music.” Whether singing about the danger Black bodies face daily, spiders in their childhood bedrooms, or fantastical “ghetto spaceships,” The Black Tones' charisma and infectious blues-punk approach is exemplary, essential, and deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Eva Walker even named her new baby girl Hendrix, further cementing their connection to Seattle's musical legacy.
Festivals and events dedicated to celebrating Black music, such as the annual Northwest Folklife Festival and the Capitol Hill Block Party, continue to provide platforms for emerging artists and established acts alike to showcase their talent and connect with audiences. As Seattle's music scene continues to thrive, the legacy of its Black music pioneers remains a source of inspiration and influence for generations to come.
Now, Converge Music is entering the scene.
Launching in June, aligning with Black Music Month, it presents a dynamic addition to Seattle's bustling music sphere. Focusing on the distinct narratives of local Seattle artists and talents nationwide, Converge Music seeks to honor the city's musical legacy while embracing a rich tapestry of genres.
With a focus on immersive storytelling, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes content, Converge Music invites users to engage deeply with the artists they love. Through interactive features facilitating fan-artist connections and in-depth artist profiles, the platform offers a rich and interactive experience.
At its core, Converge Music seeks to shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of musical talent within Seattle, showcasing the contributions of local artists while also amplifying exceptional voices from across the nation. By providing a space for artists and fans to converge, Converge Music aims to be more than just a platform — it aims to be a catalyst for community and creativity.
Visit whereweconverge.com for more information and to sign up for updates, and follow @wwconverge on social media for the latest news and exclusive content.
