Music: Syl Johnson at the Echo

MUSIC

The ferociously voiced soul singer Syl Johnson might be best known for his barnstorming single “Is It Because I’m Black?” It was one of the first and most volatile songs to directly address the black experience in America in the late ‘60s. His catalog has long been a favorite for sample-heavy rap producers and MCs (Wu-Tang Clan and Jay-Z among them), and he’s finally touring after a long absence. At this show, he’ll be backed by the firecracker soul combo Breakestra. The Echo, 1822 Sunset Blvd., L.A. 9 p.m. Fri. $15. Attheecho.com.