How did African-American performers and musicians popularize black culture?

Answer 1

African-American music and performers greatly influenced rock 'n' roll, though not in the way you might think.

In the 50's, it was still very unusual for African American performers to have their records played on the radio, which was the way almost all popular music was promoted. Instead, many of them found fame and fortune when white singers sang (covered) their songs. Elvis Presley did this often. If you want to, you could say he exploited the original artists, but in truth, their careers usually benefited greatly from the simple fact that Elvis could get their songs on the radio; it was (and still is) very unusual to hear any of those African American artists say anything negative about Elvis.

Indeed, the historic "roots" of rock and roll music are in Jazz and Blues Music, both of which were developed by African Americans. Even the phrase "rock and roll", like "Jazz" before it, is borrowed from slang used in the African American community. (Their original meanings were both references to a particular act I will avoid mentioning to keep this discussion rated G.)

It is probably fair to say that the first 20th century American popular music form whose primary influences were not from African Americans was Punk, in the 70's.

Answer 2

In the 1950s, African-American culture became popularized. Performers and musicians such as Elvis Presley emulated the style of black singers, bringing the sound to a wider audience.

Answer 3

chicken wINGS

Answer 4

the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade