A Wealth of Children’s Music by African Americans

Right now, parents and educators are sharing lists of anti-racist media for children. From the parenting experts at New York Times to Common Sense Media and PJ Library, these lists include books, movies, TV shows and educational resources. So far, we haven’t seen anyone beyond a few kids’ show DJs, who are spotlighting the grand traditions of Black music for children. Lead Belly created songs just for kids, and Ella Jenkins, regarded as the First Lady of Children’s Music, rarely get the national media attention that they deserve.

Today’s Black “kindie” artists include award-winners like Jazzy Ash, the Alphabet Rockers, Choo Choo Soul, Uncle Devin, SaulPaul and many more. All of them add a rich history and fresh perspective to the art of songwriting for children.

We’ve started a playlist of children’s songs performed or written by African Americans, and it was surprisingly easy to think of and add songs created with children’s interests in mind. Some are political, but most are simply just fun. They tell stories, they play with words, and they all add some beautiful color to family life.

Here’s the playlist on Spotify. It provides more than 90 minutes of listening for your family to enjoy.