🎶 1. “What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye (Released: January 20, 1971, as a single)

Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On isn’t just a song—it’s a movement. Released in January 1971, it was a response to the social turmoil of the time, including the Vietnam War, racial injustice, and political unrest. With its lush orchestration and layered vocals, Gaye broke away from Motown’s pop formula and crafted a song that spoke directly to the soul of a nation.

Fun fact: Motown founder Berry Gordy initially didn’t want to release What’s Going On, believing it was too political. Gaye fought for its release, and it became one of the most influential songs of all time, proving that music has the power to spark change.

Even today, whether played in the background of a cozy lounge or sung aloud in protest, What’s Going On remains as relevant as ever—because great music never fades.

🎶 2. “Rock with You” – Michael Jackson (Hit No. 1 on Billboard: January 26, 1980)

Few artists could blend soul, disco, and pop quite like Michael Jackson. By the time Rock with You topped the Billboard Hot 100 on January 26, 1980, he had already transitioned from child star to solo sensation. The track, with its buttery-smooth vocals and irresistible groove, was one of the last big disco hits before the genre evolved into the ‘80s sound.

Did you know? The song was written by Rod Temperton, the same songwriter behind Thriller and Off the Wall. He originally planned to call it I Want to Eat You Up, but thankfully, the title changed before release!

Today, Rock with You remains a timeless slow jam, a go-to for setting the mood at any intimate gathering—just like a night at Dabney & Co., where every moment is meant to be savored.

🎶 3. “Hot in Herre” – Nelly (Won a Grammy: January 26, 2003)

When it comes to early 2000s party anthems, few songs had the impact of Hot in Herre. Produced by The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo), the track dominated clubs, airwaves, and dance floors, bringing a fresh, infectious energy to hip-hop. On January 26, 2003, Nelly won a Grammy for Best Male Rap Solo Performance for the song, solidifying his place in music history.

Not only was the song a commercial success, but it also sparked a cultural moment, with its famous hook—"It's gettin' hot in here, so take off all your clothes!"—becoming a permanent part of pop culture. Whether at a packed nightclub or a lively night out at Dabney & Co., Hot in Herre is one of those songs that never fails to get people moving.

🎶 4. “One in a Million” – Aaliyah (Released: January 27, 1997, as a single)

Aaliyah’s voice was otherworldly—soft yet powerful, angelic yet full of depth. When One in a Million was released as a single on January 27, 1997, it introduced a revolutionary sound to R&B. The song, produced by Timbaland and Missy Elliott, featured a unique beat that was futuristic yet deeply rooted in soul, influencing countless artists who followed.

Sadly, Aaliyah’s life was cut tragically short, but her influence on R&B, fashion, and music production remains immeasurable. Listening to One in a Million today is more than just enjoying a song—it’s honoring an artist who changed the game in such a short time.

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in conversation over a slow, hypnotic beat at Dabney & Co., you know the power of music like this—where every note lingers, every lyric means something, and every moment feels timeless.

🎶 5. “Empire State of Mind” – Jay-Z & Alicia Keys (Hit No. 1 Again: January 30, 2010, after a Grammy Win)

New York City has been the subject of many songs, but few have captured its essence quite like Empire State of Mind. When Jay-Z and Alicia Keys released this anthem in 2009, it quickly became a rallying cry for dreamers, hustlers, and music lovers alike. After winning two Grammys in 2010, the song shot back to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on January 30, cementing its place as one of the greatest city anthems ever made.

Beyond its love letter to NYC, the song embodies the universal feeling of ambition, resilience, and pride. Whether you’re walking through Times Square or sitting in a dimly lit lounge with a classic cocktail in hand, Empire State of Mind makes you feel like you can take on the world.

The Legacy of Black Music in January and Beyond

The last week of January has seen the release of some of the most iconic songs in history—tracks that have not only topped the charts but have also shaped culture, influenced generations, and provided the soundtrack to our lives. From Marvin Gaye’s socially conscious soul to Aaliyah’s futuristic R&B, from Michael Jackson’s disco-funk grooves to Jay-Z’s larger-than-life anthems, these artists have left an undeniable mark on music.

At Dabney & Co., we believe in celebrating these legacies every day. Whether it’s through the records we spin, the conversations we share, or the memories we create, the music of these legends continues to live on in the spaces we gather.