Saturday, 15 September 2018

Blues Music Of Yesterday And Today

By Scott Gibson


When it comes to music, there are several popular genres. In most cases, people either buy or download a wide variety. At the same time, blues music can also still be heard at a number of dive bars around the world.

Unlike other genres, the history of the blues is lesser known. In addition, the blues due to the emotional lyrics and dive bars at which many play, often draw a much older crowd. Like the genre itself, it appears it will take some time for music lovers to catch up to these musical offerings of what are some of the greatest musicians in the world.

The best estimate as to when the genre was born is believed to be the early 1900s, most likely somewhere between 1901 and 1905. During this period, a number of recordings were made which now closely resemble modern day blues. Later, the genre became better known when the music of black workers started singing songs which included technical themes and emotional lyrics.

Being an ever changing genre, the styles have evolved and changed over time. As musicians tend to add elements of individuality when playing solo or with a group, the change is one that is ongoing. As most participate in a number of open jam sessions, the instrumentals between the lyrics is often considered jamming or call and response created by those playing drums, guitars and keyboards.

The genre having been born out of the slave trade much like many hymnals is often considered the beginning of the genre. For, many of the songs were created by slave hands and have been handed down through generations. While some remained closer to an acoustic style, others evolved into modern day styles which now grace many dive bars and festivals around the world.

An Akonting, predecessor of the banjo is an instrument which dates back to a time long before the style became a well known genre. Since that time, the pedal and slide guitar are often front and foremost at a number of jams and performances. Whereas, the songs and vocals were incorporated from music once known as Field and Holler which laid a strong foundation for the genre. After which, a number of other styles such as folk and lyrical were blended in to create what is now known as modern day blues.

Whether due to the history or style, the genre became so popular that there are now a number of societies which promote the genre throughout the world. In addition, most of these societies sponsor blues contests and jams on either an annual or ongoing basis.

In many cases, there are local societies which host contests, then send the winning musician or musicians on to the semi-finals or finals. When it comes to the finals, there is often a large award ceremony. In fact, one of the biggest are the American Blues Awards held in Memphis on an annual basis. During this event, there is a banquet, silent auction and banquet along with contest winners and other artists providing entertainment.




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