Expert: George Armstrong - 3/23/2008

Question
QUESTION: I was wondering if you could tell some history about blues in general. And some information about the blues.

ANSWER: Hi Travis!

Blues started in the rural south U.S.A. as "Call Outs" for work crews. Workers would sing out or "call out" a line, other workers would respond with the same line, or fitting response. It was vital to African American peoples as entertainment and expression. It later influenced modern music such as jazz and rock. It has grown, and is now a fair sized music market share through out the world. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have a specific question? Regards, George Armstrong



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: By some chance do you know who some of the pioneers are in this genre?

Answer
Hi Travis,

I picked some names for you, however, there are many more people that I suggest are Blues Pioneers. My suggested lineup follows: Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, Willie Dixon, Howlin' Wolf, and Cab Calloway. To balance out the women, I'll suggest Mamie Smith, Clara Smith, and Ma Rainey. Thanks for the question! Regards, George