The Roots of Blues

Blues was born in rural areas where slaves would sing their own heritage African chants while working in the fields and during hard labor in prison. After the abolishment of slavery, slaves joined the military forces where they learned harmony and western European classical march beats, incorporating their African rhythm to western European music and instruments.

Field hollers were songs that slaves would sing in the cotton and corn fields to express their heritage and communicate with each other.

Work songs were songs that slaves would sing during hard labor in prison to synchronize their breathing and singing with their work, making it easier to endure the long hours.

After the abolishment of slavery, music evolved as slaves joined the military forces and incorporated their African rhythm into western European music and instruments.

Blues is considered the heart of jazz, as jazz wouldn't exist without the influence of blues. Jazz incorporates the fusion of two cultures and identities, creating a unique musical genre.