Wednesday, September 19, 2018

A Brief History Of Blues Music

By Scott Gibson


When it comes to different musical genres, there are many which are well known and others which are overlooked when downloading or purchasing music. In the case of blues music, it is one of the latter. For, while there are numerous blues artists, those associated with modern day blues often prefer to play at festivals, jams and live shows.

The history of the genre is lesser known than many others. For, there is no detailed information as to the timeline related to the origin of the genre. Still, as the style evolved over time, most relate the style back to the African Continent.

One of the best estimates as to the beginning of the genre based on an early representation of music is circa 1901. For, it was during this time that music which closely resembled modern days blues came on to the scene. After which, the genre became known during a time in which black workers began singing songs with popular emotional lyrics and technical themes.

The genre is an ever changing one as each artist often add elements of individuality whether performing solo or with a band. In fact, one of the most poplar events associated with the genre is that of open jams. Often held on a specific day and time, on a monthly, bi-monthly or weekly basis, these jams can be found all over the world.

Jams and other modern day blues are believed to have been born at the same time as Field and Holler, for it was the slaves whom also started the call and response aspect of music. During that time, slaves in one field would sing simple solo songs to which slaves in another field would respond. After which, the call and response and emotional lyrics became a mainstay of the genre.

An original string instrument during that time was the Akonting, while similar to the banjo, the predecessor dates back to a period long before the genre became better known. While banjos have somewhat moved over to the bluegrass genre, slide and pedal guitars are now somewhat front and center when it comes to the blues. Still, having been born out of a style once known as Field and Hollar, the genre has gone through several changes since being recognized in the early 1900s.

Whether due to style or history, the genre has now become so popular as to have a number of non-profit organizations supporting not only the genre but the musicians whom are a part of it as well. As a result, most of thee organizations provide contests and jams for players as well as lovers of the genre.

Most often, these societies are non-profit organizations which hold a number of events. The funds from these and other events often go to a number of different charities which provide musicians with everything from housing to health care and beyond. In many cases, there are contests in which a number of musicians compete before moving on to an annual or semi-annual award ceremony.




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