Blues Timeline B.K.

By bkremer1

  • 1861

    The Civil War begins leaving the ability to abolish slavery slim. Soon, enslaved people came together in unity creating songs, and began gaining hope.

  • 1893

    Lemon Jefferson is born.

  • 1899

    "Maple Leaf Rag" is published by Scott Joplin.

  • 1901

    Victor Records records the first African American tape.

  • 1908

    The first blues song "I got the Blues" was published.

  • 1912

    Memphis Blues sheet music is published.

  • 1920

    Mamie Smith's rendition of "Crazy Blues" sells over 1 million copies in the first year of its release.

  • 1924

    The first folk blues record is issued.

  • 1934

    Urban Blues forms as a result of the Great Depression

  • 1941

    The broadcast of "King Biscuit" gained notice.

  • 1945

    Blues became more popular after soldiers returned home from war.

  • 1946

    Arthur Crudup recorded "That's All Right" which would later be sung be Elvis Presley.

  • 1954

    Elvis records Arthur's "That's Alright Mama".

  • 1960

    Muddy Waters perform at the Newport Jazz Festival.

  • 1967

    The book "Slave Songs of the United States" is published.