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Beyoncé country

Today, Explained

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Evolution of Black Music in Commercial Recordings

Black artists faced structural obstacles in the early days of commercial recorded music, with some opting not to speak or sing on records to avoid revealing their race. Despite challenges, artists like D Ford and Lil Hardin Armstrong made significant contributions to music. For instance, Lil Hardin Armstrong's performance on Blue Yodel No. 9 challenged stereotypes as it is considered one of the most iconic country songs, showcasing the evolution and impact of Black artists in the music industry.

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