The Daily ‘1619,’ Episode 3: The Birth of American Music
Sep 7, 2019
Explore how Black musical traditions forged in captivity shaped the very essence of American music. Discover emotional depth in genres like jazz, gospel, and doo-wop, which reflect resilience and cultural pride. Delve into the troubling history of minstrel shows and their appropriation of talent, illustrating a painful disconnection from authentic Black culture. Finally, witness how the struggle for freedom resonates through Black music, capturing profound human emotions and embodying America's core values.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Yacht Rock Revelation
- While cooking, Nicole Hannah-Jones listened to Yacht Rock and realized something profound.
- She recognized elements of Black music woven into the genre, causing her to laugh.
Black Music's Undeniable Influence
- Black music's influence is undeniable in American popular music, even when performed by white artists.
- This fact fills Hannah-Jones with pride but also reminds her of the painful history behind it.
Early Black Music Recordings
- Early Black American music recordings from the 1930s reveal a mix of sorrow and playfulness.
- These songs, passed down through generations, reflect the experiences of enslaved people.
