الاثنين، 17 سبتمبر 2018

A Brief History Of Blues Music

By Scott Gibson


Throughout history, a number of different musical genres have come and gone. Currently, one of the most overlooked when it comes to purchasing or downloading artists is that of Blues music. While this is the case, the genre is still alive and well when it comes to performing live at a number of historic and neighborhood venues.

While history as to when the blues were born varies, most believe it to have been sometime in the early 1900s. At the same time, as there is no detailed information available with regard to date, no one knows for sure. What is known, is that the style has grown over time with a strong belief that the earliest forms began on the African Continent.

The best estimate as to when the genre was born is believed to be the early 1900s, most likely somewhere between 1901 and 1905. During this period, a number of recordings were made which now closely resemble modern day blues. Later, the genre became better known when the music of black workers started singing songs which included technical themes and emotional lyrics.

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.

The genre having been born out of the slave trade much like many hymnals is often considered the beginning of the genre. For, many of the songs were created by slave hands and have been handed down through generations. While some remained closer to an acoustic style, others evolved into modern day styles which now grace many dive bars and festivals around the world.

The Akonting, a predecessor of the banjo was quite present in many songs played during that time. For, it is an instrument which dates back to Africa, long before the slave trade began. While this is the case, pedal, steel and slide guitar replaced the banjo while the banjo has now found a new home in bluegrass.

Whether due to style or history, there are a number of societies which promote and support musicians of the genre around the world. Most often, the funds from various events go to support musicians with healing, healthcare, housing and beyond. In order to raise these funds, non-profits often host contests, conventions and other events throughout the year.

The non profit organizations often present a number of fundraisers to garner money to support musicians in a number of areas. For example, during Hurricane Katrina, the Houston and New Orleans societies came together to help musicians whom had lost a bus, car, a home, equipment or were in need of medical care. As such, by contributing to one of these non-profits, an individual is not only helping musicians in need but also keeping the genre alive and well for future generations.




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