Black Inspirations: Madison McFerrin on Chaka Khan

For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary Black artists to share some of their influences from the Black music vanguard. The series continues today with a testimonial from Madison McFerrin.

Singer-songwriter Madison McFerrin makes music that’s driven by low-key but undeniable grooves, and groove is definitely in the heart of the artist she chose to highlight for our Black History Month series Black Inspirations. Whether with her funk band Rufus or on her own as a solo artist, Chaka Khan set the bar for high-energy dance music. Here’s what McFerrin had to say about her.

Chaka Khan is an undeniable powerhouse. Her voice, her melodies, her range, her swag, everything about what she brings to the table makes you take notice. I chose Chaka because her music is timeless, something that in 40 years I hope I will be able to say about my own.   

Below, listen to three of Madison McFerrin’s favorite Chaka Khan songs, chosen for Black Inspirations on WXPN.