Blog

Born in Albany, Georgia in 1923, he is well known for his innovation in blending popular music into his rhythm and blues performances and recordings. His work reflects inspiration from gospel, blues, jazz, pop, rock, R&B, soul and country musics. As a vocalist, he was originally inspired by pianist/songwriter Nat King Cole and his early recordings reflect that influence.

This early style of jazz that began in New Orleans and was originally learned by imitation

This style of writing music for the piano is the predecessor to jazz. It incorporates strong beats accented by a bouncing left hand part with syncopated melodies played by the right hand.  

A style of jazz that followed the swing era and returned to improvisation. It was led by artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and returned to small instrumental ensembles (the Quintet).

This battle between union and confederate forces raged from 1861 to 1865 and was the most divisive event in U. S. history.

Music that brings to mind images or associations other than purely musical notions.

This style emerged in 1980’s and was originally rapid recitation in rhyme over sampled sound. Later artists created live musical backgrounds. It began as the voice of inner city America and included vulgar lyrics that glamorize violence, drugs, and street life.

The group resisted the influences of disco and pop and remained Rock band throughout the 1970’s and 80’s.  Their long list of hits includes “Walk This Way” and “Dude Looks Like a Lady”

A popular 1970’s disco band that included horns and keyboards with drums and guitars.

The group of players includes trumpet, saxophone, piano, bass, and drums and was the most popular combination for Bebop.