You probably grew up listening to a different types of music and have a favorite song or genre. Chances are, your song preferences were strongly influenced by African Americans who shaped and sculpted the musical industry you know today. From jazz to rock, their influences changed the world's musical culture.

This musical influence began before the 20th century, beginning with Ragtime and Blues, heavily inspired from traditional African slave spirituals, work calls and chants. The century ended with enormous transformations in the musical worldwith hip-hop, rap and R&B. All this musical history made your favorite songs possible. Celebrate February by turning on this timeline of music from some of the most influential black artists in U.S. history:

1890's - Ragtime

1900's - Blues

1910's - Jazz

1920's - More jazz

1930's - Gospel

1940's - Big Band

1950's - Rock n' roll

1960's - R&B/soul

1970's - Motown

1980's - Disco

1990's - Grunge rap and pop punk

2000's - Hip hop/R&B

2010's - Techno/pop

The playlist

To experience the whole playlist, click here.