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Essay / History of the Blues - 1009
In some way, Blues music has influenced almost every musical artist and their work. Jazz and Blues gave way to artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Barry. The history and origins of the Blues go back several generations. Many articles have been written over the years to help readers better understand the history and importance of Blues music. All articles have a similar attitude towards The Blues. Each article makes the social and musical importance and impact of Blues music glaringly evident.Summary: Articles relating to the history and importance of the Blues.Cavender, Jason. “Music of the Civil War.” Reference guide to literature and the arts, 2nd edition. March 20, 2003. Pages 31 - 38. This article discusses the obvious oppression that African Americans faced in the 19th century and the music behind this depression. This music is Blues. The author of “Civil War Music,” Jason Cavender, explains that blues music was born around plantation campfires and on Civil War battlefields. Many African American soldiers were invited during the Civil War to perform in front of their superior officers. The music was, according to white soldiers and officers, “spellbinding and powerful.” This music, according to Cavender, helped describe hundreds of years of injustice. Gussow, Adam. “Shoot Myself a Cop”: Mamie Smith’s “Crazy Blues” as a social text. Callaloo - Volume 25, Number 1, Winter 2002. Pages 8-44 - Article. The article “Shoot Myself a Cop” is an article that shows the early struggles of the African American people through song. Many social events and injustices were depicted in blues songs during the era. The song “Crazy Blues” is the main song that the entire article focuses on. The ...... middle of paper ...... would plug their guitars directly into their hearts and souls and bring out a beautiful and powerful sound. It is clear to see the importance of Blues music in our culture today. . Blues has influenced modern music more than any other style of music. This is due to the power that the Blues possess. The Blues began to form the second an African boarded a European ship and was no longer considered a human being. Hundreds of years of oppression and ghosts can be heard in the beginnings of blues music. The music of Robert Johnson and Maime Smith is not just about listening; it envelops the soul. This is why blues music has had such an impact on our society. It is one of the few true and raw art forms. It is also now commercial thanks to technology and distribution. Every person from all walks of life should take a history lesson and listen to The Blues.