13. Johnny Otis
Johnny Otis, often hailed as the “Godfather of Rhythm and Blues,” was a visionary bandleader, songwriter, and talent scout whose work bridged Black R&B with mainstream audiences. Otis discovered and nurtured numerous influential artists, bringing their sound into the spotlight and laying the groundwork for rock’s emergence. His keen ear and passion for music helped shape the direction of popular music. Discover his remarkable legacy at the Los Angeles Times.
