Black entertainment has a rich and vibrant history that has made significant contributions to the cultural landscape of the United States and beyond. From music to film to television and beyond, Black entertainers have broken barriers, challenged stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations.

In music, Black artists have had a profound influence on a wide range of genres, from jazz and blues to rock and hip-hop. Legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Louis Armstrong helped shape the course of American music in the early to mid-20th century. In the 1960s and 70s, artists like Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Marvin Gaye used their music to address social and political issues, becoming icons of the civil rights movement.

In film, Black entertainers have also made their mark, with pioneers like Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge, and Hattie McDaniel breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes in Hollywood. In recent years, filmmakers like Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and Barry Jenkins have continued to push boundaries and tell diverse and authentic Black stories on the big screen.

On television, Black entertainers have played key roles in changing the landscape of television programming. Shows like "The Cosby Show," "In Living Color," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," and "Scandal" have all featured diverse Black casts and tackled issues of race, class, and identity in groundbreaking ways.

Overall, Black entertainment has played a crucial role in shaping popular culture and challenging societal norms, while also providing a platform for Black voices and experiences to be heard and celebrated.