Are blackness and whiteness useful concepts in the study of popular music?

When we listen or interact with different genres of music, consumers are often unaware of the cultural influence behind it. Race within music has always been an issue that has caused debate; it was during the earliest recording of music from the 1920s that race was a big problem. During these times leading record companies i.e. Colombia would have separate labels for black and white artists. Obviously as times have evolved and legislation has changed, something as drastic as distributing music by appointment of skin colour would be completely inappropriate. Some of today’s most famous popular songs that were originally sung and written by people from ethnic groups (i.e. blacks), have been covered by white artists which consumers are unaware of. I believe that it is useful to know these facts as it acknowledges the sources talents and triumphs, especially black artists that were involved and possibly exploited during the earliest days of recording. However I don’t think it is as important within our current social context, as racial discrimination would not be tolerated. Therefore the music will be judged and successful down to vocal talents not skin colour