February may be the shortest month but there's no way you can forget about it. The second month of the year is Black History Month. What started as Negro History Week to spread an understanding of black culture and literature, eventually became an entire month long national observance in 1976. As we go through the month, here's some timeless classics that were brought to us by African American artists.

1. (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding

Redding was one of the most influential singers of the '60s. This song, one of his most popular, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year!

2. A Change Is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke

AllMusic once wrote that he "was the inventor of soul music" and had "an incredible natural singing voice and a smooth, effortless delivery that has never been surpassed."

3. At Last - Etta James

Born in '38, James performed in many different genres throughout her musical career. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

4. Feeling Good - Nina Simone

Simone was not only a great artist, but also an activist for Civil Rights. She was given the title "High Priestess of Soul."

5. Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Gaye was a singer with Motown. He went out on his own after his inspiring protest album "What's Going On." Terrell, who's career began as a teenager, was best known for her duets with Gaye.

6. Respect - Aretha Franklin

Franklin, the "Queen of Soul," is the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

7. Johhny B. Goode - Chuck Berry

Born in my home state and singer of my favorite Christmas song, Berry was an incredible and influential rock 'n' roll musician.

8. We Are Family - Sister Sledge

Four sisters who grew up in a home filled with music and performed across multiple genres. A lot of this group's success came during the disco era.

9. I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Houston

Houston, was one of the most successful female singers of all time, a true sensation from the start. (Aretha Franklin was also her godmother!!)

10. Superstition - Stevie Wonder

Born blind, and first discovered at only 11 years old, he has gone on to make music for decades.

11. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) - Michael Jackson

I couldn't do a list of the classics without MJ. The "King of Pop" has had hit after hit but this one is my personal favorite.

12. Lean On Me - Bill Withers

Although his career may not have lasted as long as others, around 8 years, he ended it on his own terms and with some great classics like this one that probably played at your high school graduation.

13. I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor

Quite possibly the Queen of Disco, Gaynor's incredible career spans over four decades.

14. I Got A Woman - Ray Charles

Charles is recognized as one of the greatest musicians of all time and most notably as the pioneer of soul.

15. September - Earth, Wind & Fire

This song has been on the top of every one of my playlists since my discovery of it back on that 21st night of September.

This list could have of course gone on and on. However, for now, you have 15 songs that you can now add to your playlists, if not already on them, and so much more opportunity for more discovery.