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The Fisk Jubilee Singers
The Fisk Jubilee Singers are a group of African American singers that originated at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. The Fisk Singers were the first to present African American traditional music to the public. Even though the majority of their audience was white, people began to appreciate the struggles of blacks through music. They are instrumental in preserving the musical tradition known today as Negro spirituals; African American work songs, dance tunes, and religious music. -
Beginning of African American Music
Music has been passed down and progressed over the past 2 centuries. George Washington Johnson became the first ever African American in 1890 to make commercial records, including "The Laughing Song". At that time, blacks were experiencing a high level of discrimination. George was born in 1846 and was born a slave. He was considered a playmate for his owners son and then got freed. He moved to New York and released "The Laughing Song", however, he is now forgotten. -
Rhythm and Blues...or R&B
Music that was produced by African Americans started to impact and change urban environments through social concerns and culture pride expressed through music. They forged multiple styles of music such as jazz, blues, boogie-woogie, and gospel that appeals to and pulls young audiences together, no matter their race. By the 70s, technology was being added to the music which birthed rap/hip hop. Following the footsteps of the Blues, rappers focused their music on their own hardships. -
1Pac 2Pac
Tupac Shakur, otherwise known as 2Pac is titled and praised one of the most Influential and unforgettable rapper in history. Tupac brought hip hop to a completely different level by displaying his poetic drive in how he expressed his lyrics. He created his own level of empowerment that attracted people, mostly African Americans, to listen and relate on what he had to say. Tupac had talent that allowed listeners to feel his voice. -
King of Pop
Michael Jackson was a big time singer that as broken so many records and had a big change in music and society. The Impact Michael had on music was unforgettable and huge. Michael had his own way of making his music and how it is performed which was very creative. He completely changed the structure and how music is now produced and promoted. He challenged all racial conflicts and even wrote music that reminded us about existing racism called "Thriller" which impacted the world. -
'This is America'
The song 'This is America' was made by Childish Gambino trying to send out a message or reminder for Americans. He talks and shows us about gun violence, racist segregation, shooting churches, and people targeting the black community for standing up for what they believe in. Throughout his whole video, black people are being represented as less valuable than a gun. Being able to speak on how the world is in music is another form of warning us how corrupt America.