1. A look at Black Culture and Music
Black History Month
A look at Black Culture and Music

2. Slave Music 1800’s
Harsh conditions meant slaves turned to MUSIC to keep their spirits alive.
Common instruments were the banjo, fiddle, and the drum.
Very common to hear singing while working. Why??

3. JAZZ Music Now
Emancipation lead slave music to develop into widespread instrumental music.
Lots of improvisation.
Very expressive music due to the background of the people playing it.

4. Blues Early 1900’s Occurred same time as jazz.
Expressed sad thoughts and feelings.
Can be played with any instrument or voice. Can we do it??? (yes)
Famous name: B.B. King (guitarist)

5. Gospel/Soul 1950-Now Combination of slave songs and church songs
Single singer or sang in group
Often heard in church, but also popular in pop culture.
Famous names: The “Godfather” of soul-James Brown. Aretha Franklin- “Respect”

6. Rock‘n Roll 1950-Now Beginning of rock music as we know it today
Granddady of Rock’n Roll is Chuck Berry
Common instruments are electric guitar, drums, bass guitar, singer
Influenced by blues, more upbeat.

7. Rap 1970-Now Spoken songs to a heavy beat Started in the city streets
Grandmaster Flash developed the modern day disc jockey (DJ)