African American Music covers the historical development and cultural significance of various musical genres rooted in African American traditions. You'll explore styles like blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and their influences on popular music. The course delves into key artists, musical innovations, and the social contexts that shaped these genres.

Is African American Music hard?

African American Music isn't typically considered a tough course, but it does require active listening and engagement. The difficulty often comes from the sheer volume of content covered, spanning centuries of musical evolution. If you're not used to analyzing music or discussing cultural contexts, it might take some adjustment. But overall, most students find it pretty manageable and enjoyable.

Tips for taking African American Music in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Create playlists for each genre studied to familiarize yourself with the sounds
Watch documentaries like "The Blues" series or "Hip-Hop Evolution" for visual context
Practice identifying musical elements (e.g., call-and-response in gospel)
Attend live performances of African American music styles when possible
Read artist biographies to understand their influences and impact
Discuss the music with classmates to gain different perspectives
Use mnemonic devices to remember key dates and figures (e.g., "Satchmo" for Louis Armstrong)

Common pre-requisites for African American Music

Introduction to Music Theory: This course covers the basics of reading music, understanding rhythm, and analyzing musical structure. It provides a foundation for discussing musical elements in African American genres.

American History Survey: This class gives an overview of U.S. history from colonial times to the present. It provides crucial context for understanding the social and cultural factors that influenced African American music.

Classes similar to African American Music

Jazz History: Focuses on the development of jazz from its roots to modern styles. You'll study key artists, improvisation techniques, and jazz's cultural impact.

Hip-Hop Culture: Examines hip-hop as a cultural movement, including its music, dance, visual art, and social significance. You'll explore its evolution from block parties to global phenomenon.

World Music: Surveys musical traditions from various cultures around the globe. You'll learn about instruments, styles, and cultural contexts of music from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and more.

Popular Music in America: Traces the evolution of popular music in the U.S. from the early 20th century to today. You'll study various genres, industry trends, and music's role in shaping American culture.

Music: Focuses on the study and performance of music across various genres and styles. Students develop skills in music theory, history, and performance.

Ethnomusicology: Examines music in its cultural context, combining elements of anthropology and musicology. Students study diverse musical traditions and their social significance.

African American Studies: Explores the history, culture, and experiences of African Americans. Students analyze literature, art, politics, and social movements related to the African American experience.

Cultural Studies: Investigates how cultural practices shape and are shaped by social, political, and economic forces. Students examine various forms of media, art, and popular culture.

What can you do with a degree in African American Music?

Music Journalist: Write about music for magazines, websites, or newspapers. You'll review albums, interview artists, and analyze music trends.

Music Producer: Work with artists to create and refine their sound in the studio. You'll oversee recording sessions, mix tracks, and help shape the overall musical vision.

Music Educator: Teach music in schools, universities, or community programs. You'll design curricula, lead ensembles, and help students develop their musical skills and knowledge.

Arts Administrator: Manage music-related organizations like concert venues, festivals, or record labels. You'll handle budgets, coordinate events, and develop promotional strategies.