Over the weekend, journalist Michael Harriot created a post on Twitter that shed light on the cultural differences of fame. Harriot asked Twitter users to name the most “Blackfamous” people of this generation.
“Blackfamous” is a person who is esteemed by the Black community, but often oblivious to most White people in America. After thousands responded to the post, Harriot came up with a list of the most “Black famous” celebrities.
Frankie Beverly, a legend in the Black community, was named as the most “Blackfamous” celebrity. Beverly, the lead singer of the group Maze, created the hit “Before I Let Go” in 1981. Since its release, “Before I Let Go” has stood as a favorite in the Black community as the song is often played at cookouts and even at nightclubs. Beyoncé recently remixed the song, which she featured during her 2018 Coachella performance.
Other “Black famous” people who made the list included Ralph Tresvant of New Edition, radio host Tom Joyner, gospel singer Shirley Caesar, and Kiki Shepard of “Showtime at the Apollo.”
Several White people responded to the “Blackfamous” list.
“As a white guy who’s usually pretty up on pop culture, I approve this list. I literally don’t know who any of those people are. I’m not proud of it, but it’s true,” Erik Raabe tweeted.
Twitter user @ejgallagher tweeted, “[Kiki Shepard] Name-dropped by OutKast, so of course I Googled her a few years ago. Only reason i didn’t go 0 for 10!”
Another user, @swcville tweeted, “Great list. Totally oblivious to all these names.”
Twitter user @boringnate said, “Well this is embarrassing. Time to start expanding my experiences. I’ve only heard of a few of these people.”
View Harriot’s list below:
Here are the top 10 results from the #Blackfamous list
10. Dave the Dope Fiend
9. Betty Wright
8. Eddie King Jr.
7. Kiki Shepard
8. Shirley Caesar
6. Tie: Shirley/Barbara
5. Tom Joyner
4. Ralph Tresvant
3. Boo the Fool
2. Stacy Adams1. Frankie Beverly
— michaelharriot (@michaelharriot) December 16, 2019
