Bassist Melvin Gibbs on Black Music's Global Dominance

The veteran musician reflects on the rise of Black music and culture worldwide.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of the grooved, reflective surface of a black vinyl record, capturing the intricate textures and details in dramatic high-contrast lighting to conceptually represent the widespread influence of Black music.The global dominance of Black music is reflected in the intimate details of the vinyl record, a medium that has long been a canvas for groundbreaking Black artists.Brooklyn Today

Melvin Gibbs, a veteran bassist, discusses his decision to make the Twin Cities his second home after high-rise construction obstructed the view from his longtime Brooklyn apartment. In the interview, Gibbs reflects on the global dominance of Black music and culture, which he has witnessed over his decades-long career.

Why it matters

Gibbs' perspective provides insight into the widespread influence of Black music, which has become a dominant force in popular culture globally. His move to the Twin Cities also highlights the changing landscape of major cities like New York, where development is reshaping long-standing communities.

The details

After living for years in a rent-controlled apartment in Brooklyn with a view of the East River and Manhattan skyline, Gibbs decided to establish a second home in the Twin Cities around two years ago, after high-rise construction obstructed that view. In the interview, Gibbs reflects on the global rise of Black music and culture, which he has witnessed over his decades-long career as a bassist.

  • Gibbs made the decision to establish a second home in the Twin Cities around two years ago.

The players

Melvin Gibbs

A veteran bassist who has witnessed the global rise of Black music and culture over his decades-long career.

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What they’re saying

“How Black Music Took Over The World.”

— Melvin Gibbs, Bassist

The takeaway

Gibbs' move to the Twin Cities and his reflections on the global dominance of Black music highlight the evolving cultural landscape of major cities and the widespread influence of Black creativity on popular culture worldwide.