The late 19th-century Blues Music is distinguished by its incorporation of structured forms, such as the 12-bar blues, which provided a more defined framework compared to earlier, more improvisational styles. Additionally, the use of specific chord progressions and lyrical themes reflecting personal struggles and societal issues became more pronounced during this period. This shift towards a more standardized format allowed for greater dissemination and recognition of blues as a distinct musical genre.
Blue music in the late nineteenth century is distinguished by its incorporation of more structured forms and a greater emphasis on lyrical storytelling compared to earlier blues forms. This period saw the emergence of published sheet music and the influence of African American folk traditions, which blended with popular music styles. Additionally, the use of specific chord progressions and the introduction of the twelve-bar blues format became defining traits during this era, setting it apart from the more improvisational and less formalized earlier styles.
in the 1920's or earlier
19th century
"Lost Your Head Blues" features a combination of instruments typical of early 20th-century blues music, primarily focusing on the piano, which provides the main melodic and harmonic structure. Guitars and possibly a harmonica or other wind instruments may also accompany the piano, adding to the song's depth and texture. The arrangement emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics, characteristic of the blues genre.
The first African American blues singer is often considered to be Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, who gained prominence in the early 20th century. However, there were earlier performers, such as Mamie Smith, whose 1920 recording of "Crazy Blues" is credited with bringing blues music to a wider audience and is often recognized as a significant moment in the genre's history. Both artists played crucial roles in popularizing the blues and paving the way for future musicians.
Blue music in the late nineteenth century is distinguished by its incorporation of more structured forms and a greater emphasis on lyrical storytelling compared to earlier blues forms. This period saw the emergence of published sheet music and the influence of African American folk traditions, which blended with popular music styles. Additionally, the use of specific chord progressions and the introduction of the twelve-bar blues format became defining traits during this era, setting it apart from the more improvisational and less formalized earlier styles.
in the 1920's or earlier
19th century
Blues music began shortly after the civil war.
The beginning of the 20th century. The beginning of the 20th century.
African American blues originated on Southern plantations during the 19th century. Even though the blues originated in the 19th century it didn't become popular and spread until the 1930's and 1940's.
Rhapsody and Blues
Some common blues chord progressions used in music include the 12-bar blues, the 8-bar blues, and the 16-bar blues. These progressions typically use dominant seventh chords and follow a specific pattern of chord changes that create the characteristic sound of the blues.
"The Weary Blues" by Langston Hughes was first published sometime in 1925. Source: wwnorton.com Of course, the author could have written it much earlier.
Perhaps the question you should really be asking is: "How big of an influence has the BLUES had on the 20th century?
Jazz and Blues is Music Genres that originated at the beginning of the 20th century in African American communities in the Southern United States from a confluence of African and European music traditions. From its early development until the present, jazz has incorporated music from 19th and 20th century American popular music.
"Lemon Brown" can be seen as an accurate description of the blues in how it explores themes of hardship, loss, and resilience. Through Lemon Brown's character, the story portrays the emotional depth and honesty characteristic of blues music. Ultimately, the story effectively captures the essence of the blues as a means of expressing pain and finding solace.