"Black music is the rhythm of nations,” says New Jersey-born super-producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. "The soul and honesty in Black music will forever be the guide for high musical expectations.” The list of artists who have benefited from Jerkins' hand is so iconic that last names aren’t even necessary: Beyoncé, Mary J., Michael, Janet, Whitney, Mariah, Rihanna, Ariana, Drake—and nearly every formative pop act from the beginning of the new millennium. The playlist he assembled for Black Music Month reflects some of those memorable partnerships, as well as influences like Nina Simone and Stevie Wonder. "These are songs that inspired me, that invoked a special feeling in me,” he says. "Some brought me joy when I was in pain, some brought me laughter when I was down, and others brought me to dance when I knew I really couldn’t dance. That's what good music does—it moves your soul! Overall these songs are a part of my journey and why I continue to produce music today.”