‘Black Girl Songbook’ Celebrates the Undeniable Impact of Black Women in Music

Whitney Houston sings the national anthem before the start of Super Bowl XXV on January 27, 1991.

“I want every Black woman to receive the confirmation of resilience and brilliance she rightfully deserves,” wrote Danyel Smith in her stunning opening essay for the ZORA Music Canon last year. This isn’t just a desire. Smith put this into action.

Today, the seasoned and highly-decorated music and culture journalist launched Black…