Most of the black female singers mentioned in the OP are mostly from the Gospel/Soul genre, a genre in which requires a big voice.. you're not gonna see Janet Jackson or Diana Ross sing those songs because their voices aren't suited for it. Of course you're going to get a genre full of predominately big voices because it's a requirement, I mean
Black women have stronger vocals however not ALL of them for example: Rihanna. I love rihanna but she is not the best singer and will get out sung by Gaga, Beyonce, Adele, Xtina, etc any day.
Its not a race thing. There are many great singers within all races. Its more about the genre/style of music that has bigger tradition and influence in different parts of the world and also different music appeals to different groups of people.
While Afro-American singers you mentioned grew up being influenced by black American church, listening to gospel, soul, jazz or R&B, they adopted similar singing style and pursued their careers in those genres. For example in Europe are different traditions and influences, great singers tend to pursue their careers in opera, chanson, cabaret, professional choirs etc. where you can find just as many great singers. Being a great singer certainly isnt a race thing, but the style and genre of music a singer chooses to do tends to be.
In general they were singing in the Church growing up. In the African Anerican church you have a chance to develop your music skills either singing ,writing music and playing instruments without negatve comments. There you can deveop your style. That is why most of the great singers grew up the church and are great. There are no flops on the African American church. There is a lot of encouragement. There are great singers in the African American CHURCH THAT YOU WILL NEVER HEAR ABOUT- they will remain unknown. If you really want to know why they sing so well just go to an African American chuch for Sunday service and see for yourself. All talent levels are encouraged to develop.
