Thursday, September 13, 2018

Exploring The Birth 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.

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.

The beginning of the genre included music with styles which closely resemble that of modern blues. As such, it is believed that the musical styles of today originated at the time the first songs came onto the music scene. For, it is strongly believed that the genre originated by black workers whom created and sang songs with technical themes and emotional lyrics based on real and fictional experiences.

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, 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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