What is Blues?

Blues History

Blues is a music genre originated on Southern United States probably after the Civil War (1861- 65) .

Around the 1860s

Origin of Blues

The inventors of Blues were slaves, ex- slaves, and the descendants of slaves. It was influenced by work songs and spirituals. Here we have a beautiful example of work song titled Cotton Song written by Nicholas Britell for the film 12 years a Slave.

1911- 1939

Deal with the devil

Robert Johnson is well know in the myth as the Blues player that sold his soul at crossroad in exchange of his musical talent and fame. Wether is true or not, the important thing is that he is the most studied blues player and he is subject of films, books and articles.

1925- 2015

The king

B.B King started to record in the 1940s and release over 50 albums. He is considered one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.

1926- 2017

The father of Rock

Here is a good example of how the blues influenced the birth of rock. Chuck Berry also know as “the father of Rock and Roll” and according to his biography, started to learn rhythm changes and blues chords. He was one of the first musicians to bring together a black and white audience in his shows.