PHOTOS: Meet The Emerging Americana Stars Of The Black Opry Revue

June 30, 2023 10:42 AM

By:

Amanda Lopez and
John Morrison

Musicians Denitia, Larysa Jaye and Tylar Bryant pose for a photo before their set at Lulu's Downstairs in Manitou Springs, Colo., on June 17, 2023. They are members of the Black Opry, a touring musical revue dedicated to uplifting Black artists in country music. / Amanda Lopez for NPR

Whether one considers the African roots of instruments like the banjo and the fiddle, the folk songs of the deep south or the music of Black Appalachia, it becomes clear that Black folks have always had a deep and inextricable connection to country and Americana music.

Today, mainstream country music is a multi-billion dollar industry. A cursory glance at the audience and artist demographics might lead you to believe there is no room for Black people in country music. And yet, despite the limited number of Black country artists setting the charts on fire, a quiet but powerful movement of musicians have brought their talents and unique experiences to the country music landscape during the past few years.

In an effort to highlight these emerging artists, country music fan Holly G founded blackopry.com two years ago. The site initially started as a simple directory of Black country and Americana artists, but has since blossomed into a hub for a full-blown community of artists and fans.

Today, the Black Opry Revue has emerged from this community as a touring show bringing Black country artists to venues around the country.

On June 17, 2023, the Black Opry Revue pulled up to Lulu's Downstairs in Manitou Springs, Colo., for a night of music featuring rising stars Tylar Bryant, Denitia and Larysa Jaye.