Forever Ago Banjos Pt. 1: From Gourds to Grammys
Jul 17, 2024
Dive into the fascinating journey of the banjo, an instrument with deep cultural roots. Discover its evolution from Africa to its prominent role in country and bluegrass music. Rhiannon Giddens shares insights on the significant contributions of Black musicians to this uniquely American sound. Explore the banjo's history as a symbol of resilience, linked to the lute’s origins and the African heritage it carries. Plus, enjoy playful banter about the whimsical side of music video creation!
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Banjo's Black Roots Revealed
- The banjo is often linked to white musicians in country and bluegrass genres, but it deeply roots in Black musical history.
- Beyoncé's work highlights Black contributions and reshapes the instrument's cultural perception.
Rhiannon's Banjo Journey
- Rhiannon Giddens discovered her understanding of the banjo was incomplete and that Black musicians had a profound history with it.
- Seeing Black banjo players reshaped her perception of the instrument's cultural identity.
Meeting Joe Thompson
- Rhiannon Giddens' connection to the banjo was deepened by meeting Joe Thompson, an 86-year-old African-American fiddler.
- Thompson's music linked directly back to enslaved ancestors, inspiring her understanding of the banjo's legacy.