How Blues Evolved: Volume One - A Comprehensive History of the Genre

How Blues Evolved Volume One

by Paul Merry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8922 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	185 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The blues is a genre of music that originated in the African-American communities of the Deep South in the late 19th century. It is characterized by its use of the blues scale, a twelve-bar chord progression, and a strong focus on improvisation. The blues has had a profound impact on the development of other genres of music, including jazz, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues.

Origins of the Blues

The origins of the blues can be traced back to the work songs and field hollers of African slaves in the United States. These songs were used to express the slaves' pain and suffering, as well as their hopes and dreams. After the Civil War, many former slaves migrated to the cities, where they brought their musical traditions with them. In the cities, the blues began to take on a more secular and commercial form, and it became popular with both black and white audiences.

The Blues Scale

The blues scale is a six-note scale that is used in the vast majority of blues songs. The scale is made up of the following notes: 1, b3, 4, #4 (or #5),5, b7. The blues scale can be played in any key, but the most common key is E.

The Twelve-Bar Chord Progression

The twelve-bar chord progression is a common chord progression that is used in many blues songs. The progression is made up of the following chords: I, IV, V, I, IV, V, I, IV, V, I, IV, V.

Improvisation

Improvisation is a key element of the blues. Blues musicians often improvise solos over the twelve-bar chord progression. Improvisation allows musicians to express their own individual creativity and style.

Impact of the Blues

The blues has had a profound impact on the development of other genres of music. Jazz, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues all have their roots in the blues. The blues has also been used in film, television, and literature.

The blues is a genre of music that has a rich and complex history. It is a genre that has been shaped by the experiences of African-Americans in the United States. The blues has had a profound impact on the development of other genres of music, and it continues to be a popular and influential genre today.

How Blues Evolved Volume One

by Paul Merry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8922 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	185 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE