Mike Mann and the NightRiders don't consider their style of music (CowboySoul) to be "Country Western Music", but there are many Black musicians and songwriters who were (and still are) instrumental in the development of todayss style of Country Western Music.
Here are some sites with historical facts on the influences and contributions of Blacks to Country Western music, and also sites of Black Country Music artists present.

The musical miscegenation that began in those New England churches is arguably not as vital as it once was, but it continues today in various forms, from white rap, and black hip-hop that samples hard-rock guitar solos, to the blues that have been appropriated by whites and turned into simple party-down music since being abandoned by most blacks.
Black Country Music: Crossing Country

Carl Ray: Often compared to Vince Gill and Bryan White, Carl Ray is certain to impact the country music scene with his hypnotic voice, dynamic personality and handsome good looks.


Vicki Vann has caught the collective ear of country music fans from California to Nashville. Having appeared at Fan Fair in Nashville as a special guest artist, to playing throughout California with her band, The Vicki Vann Band,Vicki's soulful, soaring voice has earned her a reputation as one of the newest talents of country music.

Sunny Daye: Sunny Daye has been singing country with a passion ever since she got her first Tanya Tucker album at the age of eight. Her favorite singing sensations include: Wynonna Judd, Garth Brooks, Patsy Cline, and Charlie Pride. Sunny Daye is a burst of energy and a bright spirit. Her writing & singing style is the tell tale sign that her blood is pure country. Sunny Daye will definitely make a shining impression on the country music world!

Buddy and Tina: Long before these two West Texas teens were old enough to go to grammar school, they were cranking out blues numbers by T-Bone Walker or Albert King whenever they weren't practicing etudes, concertos or sonatas. The best way you can sum up these two exceptional people is to say "They were born musicians."