6 Reasons Why 2001 Was a Huge Year for Black Women in Music

Black artists have always been a major force within the music industry. But many years these instrumental artists are not recognized for their contributions to the industry. But there are some years when the powers that be surprise us and pay homage to black artists, specifically black women. One of these years is 2001. This time in history proved to be a game changer for black women in the music industry. One of the markers of success in the music world is the Billboard Top 100 charts. It is a great feat for an artist’s single to make the charts, especially if it stays there for weeks at a time. In 2001, only 15 songs made the Billboard Top 100: and 40% of them were all by black women. Veteran artists by 2001, like Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston, continued to solidify their careers, while newcomers like Alicia Keys exploded on the scene and redefined black women in music. Read on to learn more about why 2001 was a huge year for black women in music.

Destiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child made a huge push in their career in 2001 with the release of their third studio album, “ Survivor.” It was one of the most successful albums thus far for the group, and had major hits that year, some making it pretty high on the Billboard charts. Those include “Emotion,” “Survivor” peaking at #2, and “Bootylicious” peaking at #1.

Janet Jackson

In 2001, Janet Jackson released her seventh studio album called “All for You.” That year, she had two songs top the Billboard Top 100 charts, “Son of a Gun,” and “Someone to Call My Lover,” which topped at #3.