"America was the birthplace for many genres of music, including jazz and rock 'n' roll. Both have deep roots in the African American community. Throughout the 20 th century, these genres also helped change the cultural landscape. When people were divided because of race, music brought them together. When tragedies hit the nation, music brought people comfort, hope, and a way to express difficult emotions." -- Hoffman Academy
"First came the Blues, rooted in African spirituals and work songs from the time of slavery. Then ragtime brought recognition to musicians like Scott Joplin. The rise of jazz in the 1920s helped bridge racial gaps as an art form by people of all origins.
The beats and sounds of these genres then influenced rock, soul, gospel, swing, be-bop, boogie-woogie, and so many more! Many famous rock artists, including the Rolling Stones and the Beatles, credit the Blues and jazz as major influences. In more recent decades, funk, Motown, and hip-hop gained popularity, bringing with them new styles of dance and song." -- Hoffman Academy