Sound is often referred to as the “universal language,” that which can touch the human soul. Music is able to transcend race and political preference while invoking the deepest of emotions sometimes without saying a word. Harlem was the center of a musical evolution which uncovered amazing talent and created a unique sound that has yet to be paralleled.

From here on, we hope to surround you with the sounds of Harlem while discussing the musical progression and those artists which played major roles in making it possible. Explore the TIMELINE to see the various musical styles and how they progressed during this time period. We also have a SHOWCASE OF PERFORMERS that you can browse should you have a particular person you would like to know more about.