History and Impact of Blues

Introduction

• Blues: One of the greatest inventions of the 20th century.
• Simple music but with a profound history.

Early Blues Era

• 1920s New York: Blues dominated by powerful women singing about intimate themes.
• Blues origins in the deep South, evolving from folk art to American music foundation.

Evolution of the Blues

• Blues transformed and influenced rock and roll.
• 1960s: Became a symbol of authenticity.
• From humble beginnings to celebrated by diverse audiences.

Roots and Origins

• Post-Civil War: Freed slaves in America began developing a new musical language.
• Blues emerged around 1900 in the Deep South.
• Served as a way to communicate and express emotions.

Key Figures and Milestones

• W.C. Handy: Pivotal figure, first heard blues in Mississippi. Translated it into a successful publishing business.
• Mamie Smith (1920): "Crazy Blues" becomes a hit, launching blues as pop music.
• Bessie Smith: Known as the first blues superstar; tackled themes of life’s hardships in her music.

Blues in the Record Industry

• Record industry initially ignored black musicians.
• Race records emerged, focusing on black performers for black audiences.

Blues Influence on Other Genres

• The call and response structure akin to African traditions, evolved into the 12-bar blues.
• Blues combined with swing music, influencing artists like Count Basie.

Introduction of New Blues Styles

• Blind Lemon Jefferson: Represented a new style of solo blues artist.

Delta Blues

• Charlie Patton: Father of Delta Blues; influential in blues' spread.
• H.C. Speer: Key figure in talent scouting, bringing artists to recording studios.

Migration and Social Impact

• Blues was a way out of plantation life for many black musicians.
• Great Migration: Blacks moved north for better opportunities, impacting blues development.

Blues and Politics

• 1930s: Blues intertwined with left-wing politics, aligning with civil rights movements.

Rediscovery and Legacy

• 1960s and beyond: Blues rediscovered by white audiences, leading to a revival.
• Robert Johnson: Posthumously acclaimed as a master of Delta Blues.

Blues Influence on Popular Culture

• Blues influenced rock music, evident in the works of bands like The Rolling Stones.

Conclusion

• Blues remains a powerful, mysterious force in music, symbolizing authentic expression and resilience.