1.3 Cultural influences on American music
4 min read•august 15, 2024
American music is a of cultural influences. African traditions shaped and , while European classical music influenced art and popular forms. Native American practices contributed to folk and , creating a rich tapestry of sounds.
Immigration waves brought new musical traditions to America. The Great Migration spread blues and jazz across the country. European, Latin American, and Asian immigrants introduced ethnic styles, instruments, and concepts that blended with existing American music, creating diverse new genres.
Cultural Influences on American Music
African, European, and Indigenous Contributions
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- African musical traditions shaped blues, jazz, and through:
- Polyrhythms
- Call-and-response patterns
- Improvisation techniques
- European classical music provided the foundation for:
- American art music (opera, symphony, chamber music)
- Influenced popular music forms
- Indigenous Native American musical practices contributed to folk and country music with:
- Complex rhythms
- Unique vocal techniques
- Ceremonial functions in music
- Fusion of African and European elements in the American South created:
- Early forms of country music
- explains the merging of diverse musical traditions, resulting in new hybrid forms
- Specific instruments exemplify cultural blending:
- Banjo (African origin)
- Guitar (European origin)
Musical Evolution and Cultural Blending
- Great Migration spread blues and jazz across the country as African Americans moved from rural South to urban areas
- European immigration waves introduced ethnic musical traditions, contributing to:
- American development
- Urban popular styles emergence
- Latin American immigration influenced:
- Other Latin-infused American genres
- Asian immigration introduced:
- New instruments
- Musical concepts influencing experimental and avant-garde composers
- "Melting pot" vs. "" concepts explain how immigrant musical traditions:
- Assimilated into American music
- Maintained distinctiveness within American music
- Case studies illustrate diverse impacts:
- Irish immigrants influenced American folk music
- Italian immigrants shaped American opera
Immigration and Musical Diversity
Immigrant Contributions to American Music
- European immigration in late 19th and early 20th centuries introduced:
- Various ethnic musical traditions (Polish polka, German waltzes)
- Contributed to American folk music development
- Influenced urban popular styles (Tin Pan Alley)
- Latin American immigration significantly shaped:
- Latin jazz (Afro-Cuban rhythms combined with jazz harmonies)
- Salsa (blend of Cuban son, mambo, and American jazz)
- (fusion of Latin American and Caribbean styles with hip-hop)
- Asian immigration introduced:
- New instruments (erhu, koto)
- Musical concepts influencing experimental composers (John Cage's use of I Ching)
Migration and Musical Spread
- Great Migration of African Americans led to:
- Spread of blues from Mississippi Delta to urban centers (Chicago, Detroit)
- Evolution of jazz in northern cities (Harlem Renaissance in New York)
- Development of urban blues styles (electric Chicago blues)
- Internal migration patterns influenced regional music styles:
- Dust Bowl migration contributed to California country music scene (Bakersfield sound)
- Appalachian migration to industrial cities spread and old-time music
- "Melting pot" vs. "cultural mosaic" concepts applied to musical traditions:
- Assimilation: Jazz as a uniquely American art form blending African and European elements
- Distinctiveness: Preservation of traditional music in ethnic enclaves (Klezmer in Jewish communities)
Religion and American Music
Sacred Music Traditions
- :
- Born from slavery and Christian conversion experiences
- Laid foundation for gospel music
- Influenced development of blues and soul
- Protestant hymns shaped American folk music:
- Particularly in Appalachian regions (shape-note singing)
- Influenced country and bluegrass genres
- Religious music in various faiths contributed to diversity:
- Christian church services (choral music, contemporary worship)
- Jewish synagogue worship (cantorial music, niggunim)
- Islamic devotional traditions (nasheed, qawwali influences)
Intersection of Sacred and Secular Music
- "Sacred and profane" concept in American music explores:
- Religious themes in secular genres (U2's spiritual lyrics in rock)
- Gospel influences in soul and R&B (, )
- Native American spiritual practices influenced:
- Traditional music (powwow songs, peyote songs)
- Contemporary genres (ambient, New Age)
- Contemporary Christian music emerged as distinct genre:
- Blends religious themes with popular music styles
- Artists like bridged sacred and secular markets
- Religious music's impact on secular artists:
- 's gospel recordings
- 's exploration of spiritual themes
Music and Social Movements
Civil Rights and Protest Music
- Civil Rights Movement of 1950s and 1960s closely tied to:
- Development of (We Shall Overcome)
- Use of music as tool for social change
- Particularly influential in folk music (, Joan Baez)
- Soul music as voice of black empowerment (Sam Cooke's A Change Is Gonna Come)
- Counterculture movement of 1960s and early 1970s linked to rock music:
- Expressed anti-war sentiments (Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival)
- Promoted social liberation (San Francisco psychedelic scene)
Identity and Empowerment Through Music
- Feminist movement influenced music from 1970s onward:
- Emergence of women-centered music genres (riot grrrl punk)
- Challenged gender norms in various styles ( in folk, in rock)
- Hip-hop culture and rap music emerged as powerful voices for:
- African American urban experiences
- Addressing racial inequality ('s Fight the Power)
- Critiquing police brutality (N.W.A's F*** tha Police)
- Highlighting socioeconomic disparities ('s The Message)
- LGBTQ+ rights movement reflected in and supported by:
- Disco in the 1970s (Sylvester, Village People)
- Contemporary pop music promoting visibility (Lady Gaga's Born This Way)
- "Music as social commentary" concept applied across eras:
- Folk revival of 1960s (Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie)
- Punk rock's anti-establishment stance (The Clash, Dead Kennedys)
- Modern pop stars addressing social issues (Beyoncé's Formation)
Key Terms to Review (36)
African American Spirituals: African American spirituals are religious folk songs that originated in the African American communities of the United States during the era of slavery. These songs often express deep faith, sorrow, and hope, serving as a means of communication, resistance, and cultural identity among enslaved people. They played a crucial role in shaping various forms of American music and reflect the blending of African musical traditions with European hymnody.
Amy Grant: Amy Grant is a prominent American singer-songwriter known for her pioneering work in contemporary Christian music, as well as her crossover success into pop music. Often referred to as the 'Queen of Christian Pop,' her music blends elements of rock, pop, and gospel, making her a significant figure in the evolution of American music and its cultural influences. Grant's career began in the early 1980s, and she has since become an icon, influencing both Christian and mainstream artists alike with her heartfelt lyrics and approachable sound.
Aretha Franklin: Aretha Franklin was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist known as the 'Queen of Soul.' Her powerful voice and emotive performances defined the rhythm and blues genre and played a significant role in shaping American music, reflecting the cultural dynamics and historical events of her time.
Bluegrass: Bluegrass is a genre of American roots music that emerged in the 1940s, characterized by its use of acoustic string instruments, close harmonies, and improvisation. It blends elements of Appalachian folk music with influences from other genres such as jazz, blues, and traditional country. The genre is often associated with a strong cultural identity and has roots in the music traditions of the Appalachian region, reflecting the social and historical contexts of its development.
Blues: Blues is a music genre that originated in the African American communities of the Deep South, characterized by its expressive style, use of specific chord progressions, and lyrical themes that often reflect sorrow, hardship, and resilience. This genre has significantly influenced the development of various musical styles in America, marking it as a cornerstone of American music culture.
Bob Dylan: Bob Dylan is a pivotal American singer-songwriter known for his profound impact on music and culture since the 1960s, particularly through his poetic lyrics and unique fusion of folk, rock, and blues. His work not only redefined the role of the songwriter in popular music but also reflected and shaped the social movements of his time, influencing generations of artists and fans alike.
Country music: Country music is a genre that originated in the Southern United States in the early 20th century, characterized by its use of folk melodies, simple chords, and lyrics that often reflect themes of love, hardship, and rural life. This genre is deeply rooted in the musical traditions of folk, blues, and gospel, and it has become a significant part of American culture, influencing and being influenced by various social and cultural movements.
Cultural Appropriation: Cultural appropriation is the adoption or use of elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without permission and typically in a way that can be seen as exploitative. This practice raises questions about power dynamics, ownership, and the impact of cultural exchange in contexts where one culture dominates or marginalizes another.
Cultural Identity: Cultural identity refers to the sense of belonging and connection individuals feel toward a particular culture, shaped by shared practices, beliefs, values, and experiences. This identity influences how people perceive themselves and their relationship to others within and outside their cultural group, impacting various aspects of life, including art and music. Through cultural expression, such as music, individuals articulate their unique cultural narratives and histories, creating a rich tapestry that reflects the diversity of human experience.
Cultural Mosaic: A cultural mosaic refers to a society that consists of various distinct cultural groups coexisting, each contributing its own unique characteristics while maintaining its individual identity. This concept emphasizes the idea of diversity and the enrichment that comes from different cultures living together harmoniously, influencing various aspects of life, including music.
Cultural syncretism: Cultural syncretism refers to the blending and merging of different cultural elements, practices, and beliefs to create something new. This process often occurs when diverse cultures come into contact, leading to the integration of various influences that shape a unique cultural identity. In the context of American music, cultural syncretism has played a crucial role in the development of genres by combining influences from various musical traditions and communities.
Elvis Presley: Elvis Presley, known as the 'King of Rock and Roll,' was an iconic American singer and actor who played a crucial role in popularizing rock music during the mid-20th century. His unique blend of musical styles, including country, blues, and gospel, along with his electrifying performances and charisma, helped shape the landscape of American music and culture, influencing countless artists and transforming the music industry.
Folk Music: Folk music refers to the traditional music that is typically passed down orally through generations within a community, often reflecting the cultural identity, experiences, and values of the people. This genre is characterized by its use of simple instruments and melodies, and it serves as a means of storytelling, preserving history, and connecting individuals with their cultural heritage. Folk music has been influenced by various social and historical contexts, adapting over time while still retaining its roots in the community it originates from.
Gospel music: Gospel music is a genre of Christian music that expresses faith and spiritual themes through joyful, uplifting songs, often characterized by its rich vocal harmonies and use of call-and-response techniques. This genre has roots in African American spirituals and has significantly influenced the development of various music styles in America, highlighting its importance in both cultural and religious contexts.
Grandmaster Flash: Grandmaster Flash is a pioneering hip-hop DJ and producer, known for his innovative techniques in turntablism and his role in shaping the early hip-hop sound. He played a critical part in developing the art of mixing and scratching records, influencing countless artists and helping to establish the genre's cultural significance in American music. His work not only showcased the technical skill of DJs but also helped to elevate hip-hop as a mainstream cultural force.
Jazz: Jazz is a genre of music that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by swing and blue notes, call and response vocals, polyrhythms, and improvisation. It has become a defining aspect of American music, reflecting the nation’s cultural diversity and historical influences while also shaping the evolution of various other genres.
Johnny Cash: Johnny Cash was an influential American singer-songwriter known for his deep, resonant voice and a style that blended country, rock and roll, and folk music. He is often celebrated for his storytelling ability and his exploration of themes such as love, loss, redemption, and the struggles of the working class. His music reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences, contributing to the evolution of country music, cowboy songs, and the outlaw genre.
Joni Mitchell: Joni Mitchell is a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter known for her poetic lyrics and innovative music style that blends folk, rock, jazz, and pop. She is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, with her work reflecting the cultural changes and social issues of her time, particularly in the context of American music.
Latin jazz: Latin jazz is a musical genre that combines elements of jazz with Latin American rhythms and styles, particularly Afro-Cuban music. This genre showcases vibrant percussion, syncopated rhythms, and improvisational elements that highlight the influence of both African and Latin music traditions, making it a distinctive part of the American music landscape.
Louis Armstrong: Louis Armstrong was a groundbreaking American jazz musician and singer, renowned for his virtuosic trumpet playing and distinctive gravelly voice. His contributions to jazz, particularly in the development of improvisation and solo performance, helped define the genre and elevate its status in American music. Armstrong's influence can be seen across various musical styles and has shaped the cultural landscape of the United States.
Madonna: Madonna is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and actress, often referred to as the 'Queen of Pop.' She has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American music and culture since the early 1980s, using her platform to explore themes of sexuality, identity, and social issues. Her innovative approach to music videos and performances has influenced countless artists and changed the way music is consumed in modern society.
Melting Pot: The melting pot is a metaphor that describes the process by which diverse cultures and ethnicities blend to form a cohesive society. This concept highlights how various cultural influences, particularly from immigrants, contribute to a unique American identity through the fusion of traditions, customs, and artistic expressions, including music. It emphasizes the idea of assimilation and cultural exchange, where different musical styles interact and evolve, enriching the overall soundscape of American music.
Music industry: The music industry refers to the business that involves the production, distribution, and promotion of music and its related products. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including record labels, concert promotion, artist management, and digital streaming services. The industry's structure and practices have been heavily influenced by cultural trends and technological advancements, which shape how music is created, consumed, and valued.
Musical identity: Musical identity refers to the ways in which individuals or groups define themselves through their musical preferences, practices, and affiliations. This concept encapsulates how music reflects personal and cultural backgrounds, influences social connections, and shapes experiences in diverse environments, particularly within the rich tapestry of American music, where various cultural influences interact.
N.W.A.: N.W.A. (Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an influential hip-hop group formed in 1987 in Compton, California. Known for their raw lyrics and unapologetic portrayal of urban life, they played a pivotal role in popularizing West Coast hip-hop and bringing gangsta rap into mainstream music. Their groundbreaking album, 'Straight Outta Compton,' not only challenged societal norms but also sparked conversations about race, violence, and police brutality in America.
Native American music: Native American music encompasses the diverse musical traditions of the indigenous peoples of North America, reflecting their cultural, spiritual, and social practices. This music often features vocal expressions, rhythmic drumming, and the use of traditional instruments like flutes and rattles, showcasing a rich heritage that is integral to community ceremonies, storytelling, and rituals. Understanding Native American music reveals the deep connections between cultural identity and artistic expression within various tribal groups.
Patti Smith: Patti Smith is an iconic American singer-songwriter, poet, and visual artist known for her influential role in the punk rock movement of the 1970s. Often referred to as the 'punk poet laureate,' she seamlessly blends music and poetry, challenging societal norms through her unique lyrical style. Her work not only shaped the music scene but also served as a voice for feminist and countercultural movements, making her a significant cultural figure in American music history.
Protest songs: Protest songs are musical compositions that express strong opposition or advocacy for social or political change. These songs often address issues like war, civil rights, and environmental justice, serving as powerful tools for activism and collective voice. The connection of protest songs to cultural movements can be seen in their ability to reflect societal tensions and inspire action, as well as their influence on various musical genres, particularly blues and folk.
Public Enemy: Public Enemy is a highly influential American hip hop group formed in 1985, known for their politically charged lyrics and energetic performances. Their music addresses social issues such as racism, inequality, and empowerment, making them key figures in the evolution of hip hop culture during its formative years. The group's integration of rap with activism exemplifies the cultural impact of hip hop as a platform for social change.
Reggaeton: Reggaeton is a genre of music that originated in Puerto Rico in the late 1990s, combining elements of reggae, hip-hop, and Latin music. It is characterized by its infectious beats, catchy melodies, and often explicit lyrics, making it a popular choice in dance clubs and on radio stations. Reggaeton reflects the diverse musical influences and cultural exchanges that define American music, showcasing how different traditions can merge to create a vibrant and dynamic sound.
Rock 'n' roll: Rock 'n' roll is a popular music genre that emerged in the United States in the late 1940s and early 1950s, characterized by a strong rhythm, simple melodies, and a blend of various musical influences, including rhythm and blues, country, and gospel. It played a vital role in shaping American music and culture, representing youth rebellion and social change during a transformative era.
Salsa: Salsa is a lively and rhythmic dance music genre that originated in the Caribbean, primarily influenced by Afro-Cuban musical styles and Puerto Rican rhythms. It combines various musical elements, including jazz, rock, and funk, reflecting the multicultural influences of Latin America and the United States. Salsa is not just music but also embodies a vibrant dance culture that has spread globally, influencing other genres like Latin pop and reggaeton.
Sam Cooke: Sam Cooke was a highly influential American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur known for his smooth vocal style and pivotal role in the development of soul music. Often referred to as the 'King of Soul,' Cooke's music blended gospel with rhythm and blues, paving the way for future artists and shaping the sound of American music during the 1960s. His contributions helped bridge cultural divides and brought a distinct African American sound to mainstream audiences.
Spirituals: Spirituals are a genre of music that originated in the African American community, deeply rooted in the experiences of slavery and the struggle for freedom. These songs often express themes of hope, faith, and resilience, drawing from Christian hymns and African musical traditions, while serving as a powerful form of cultural expression and communication among enslaved people.
The counterculture movement: The counterculture movement refers to a social and cultural phenomenon that emerged in the United States during the 1960s, characterized by a rejection of mainstream values and norms. This movement was marked by a desire for social change, experimentation with alternative lifestyles, and a deep connection to music as a form of expression and protest. The counterculture not only influenced music but also brought attention to issues like civil rights, environmentalism, and anti-war sentiments.
The harlem renaissance: The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, primarily among African American communities. It marked a period of renewed interest in African American culture and identity, leading to significant advancements in literature, music, art, and politics. This movement not only defined a critical era in American culture but also laid the groundwork for future generations to explore and express their cultural heritage through various artistic forms.