April Legends: 5 Black Celebrities Who Were Born To Shine
April is home to the birthdays of some of the most influential Black figures in music, film and beyond. Here are five celebrities born in April who have made a lasting impact on pop culture.
Pharrell Williams (April 5, 1973)
Pharrell Williams is a multi-talented producer, artist and entrepreneur whose impact on music is undeniable. From his work as a member of N.E.R.D to his solo hit, “Happy,” Pharrell has continuously pushed the boundaries of Hip-Hop, R&B, pop and fashion. As a producer, he’s worked with the likes of Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Madonna, and his unique sound has definitely shaped modern music.
Maya Angelou (April 4 1928)
A poet, author and activist, Maya Angelou’s work transcended the written page. Known for her powerful autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and her poem Still I Rise, Angelou is an ever-lasting global symbol of strength, resilience and wisdom. Angelou passed away in 2014 at the age of 86, but her work continues to influence writers, artists and activists across the globe.
Eddie Murphy (April 3, 1961)
A comedy legend, Eddie Murphy made his mark as a star of Saturday Night Live before dominating the big screen with hit films like Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America and The Nutty Professor. His iconic career has spanned stand-up comedy, acting and producing, and he remains one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood history.
Young M.A. (April 3, 1992)
Brooklyn-born rapper Young M.A. took the Hip-Hop world by storm with her distinctive voice and raw lyrical style. Known for her breakout hit “Ooouuu,” Young M.A. has struggled with drug addiction and health issues, causing her to put her music on pause. However, her success in breaking barriers in a male-dominated rap-scene offers a fresh perspective on LGBTQ+ representation in the music business.
Marvin Gaye (April 2, 1939)
Often referred to as the “Prince of Soul,” Marvin Gaye and his contributions to music are legendary. With timeless albums like What’s Going On and Let’s Get It On, Gaye’s smooth voice and socially conscious lyrics continue to inspire generations of artists. His impact on R&B and soul music, as well as his advocacy for social change, cement his place as one of the most impactful musicians of all time. He passed away a day before his birthday in 1984 at the young age of 44.
These April-born trailblazers have left an indelible mark on music, film, literature and culture. Their legacies continue to inspire people around the world to dream big and push boundaries.
