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It's Black Music Month! Join us on a musical journey through some of the most popular black music genres. In this episode, Black History educator Brittany Wilkins shares snippets of instrumentals from gospel, blues, jazz, Motown, hip-hop, and contemporary music. Discover a bit of history and groove along with The Coin: Black History on the Other Side podcast.
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Introduction
Thanks for tuning into Season 2 of The Coin: Black History on the Other Side. I'm your host Brittany Wilkins and today we are celebrating Black Music Month. A time to honor the legends, recognize the pioneers, and appreciate the cultural impact of Black music throughout history.
Black Music month was established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter to celebrate the contributions of Black musicians to the music industry. From jazz to hip-hop, gospel to R&B, Black artists have continually shaped and influenced the soundscape of not only America but the entire world. Let's take a journey through the genres and the moments that define Black music.
The Roots-Gospel and Blues
We begin our journey with the roots of Black music in America—gospel and blues. Gospel music, deeply rooted in the spirituals sung by enslaved Africans, provided hope and a sense of community. Artists like Mahalia Jackson and Thomas Dorsey brought gospel to the forefront, creating a genre that influenced many others.
Blues, emerging from the Deep South in the late 19th century, expressed the pain, sorrow, and resilience of Black life. Legends like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Ma Rainey took the blues from the cotton fields to urban centers, laying the groundwork for modern music.
The Jazz Age
Next we swing into the Jazz age. Jazz born in New Orleans, was a revolution in sounds. Artists like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald pushed musical boundaries. Jazz became a symbol of freedom and creativity.
Motown Sounds
Fast forward to the 1960s, and we land in Detroit, the home of Motown. Berry Gordy’s Motown Records brought us icons like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and The Supremes. Motown's polished sound and infectious melodies crossed racial lines and united listeners of all backgrounds.
The birth of Hip-Hop
In the late 1970s, a new genre emerged from the streets of the Bronx—hip-hop. DJs like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash, along with MCs like Run-D.M.C. and LL Cool J, transformed turntables and street corners into platforms for a cultural revolution.
Contemporary Impact
Today, Black music continue to evolve, where
Black artists are at the forefront of innovation and cultural influence. The intersection of technology and music has allowed for even greater creativity and reach.
Black Music Month is not just about looking back; it’s about celebrating the present and future of Black music. It’s a time to acknowledge the ongoing contributions of Black artists to our collective cultural heritage.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through Black music. Remember, the rhythms, melodies, and stories of Black music are the pulse of our culture. Celebrate it, honor it, and let it inspire you.