Ethan Teaches You Music Podcast You Are My Sunshine
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Apr 18, 2025 Discover the fascinating journey of "You Are My Sunshine" as it shifts from its Americana roots to modern interpretations. Explore the cultural interplay between traditional country and R&B, highlighted by Ray Charles’ iconic version. Dive into the complexities of country music's relationship with race, featuring pivotal historical moments and influential figures. This engaging discussion showcases how music can bridge divides and evolve across genres, revealing a rich tapestry of history.
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Origins of "You Are My Sunshine"
- "You Are My Sunshine" started as a country song recorded by the Pine Ridge Boys in 1939.
- Its verses tell a story of heartbreak despite the cheerful melody many know from the chorus.
Ray Charles' Blues Transformation
- Ray Charles' 1962 version uses the F minor pentatonic scale with a major third, blending blues elements.
- The song's melody and harmonies shift significantly from the original country style to a bluesy jazz feel.
Blues Chords Defy Classical Theory
- Ray Charles uses only two chords, F7 and Bb7, introducing the blues' characteristic dominant seventh chords.
- Western European tonal theory does not explain these chords' function as stable home bases in blues music.