In the 1950’s, with the popularity of performers such as Billy Haley, Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley, Rock and Roll became a worldwide phenomenon. Rock and Roll is a lot more than a musical genre its impact is seen in fashion, lifestyle and even language. Also, Its existence has laid the foundation for many sub-genres.
The roots of Rock and Roll music are in Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and Country. The arrival of Rock and Roll is no accident; it happened as a result of the convergence of many factors. First, were the technological changes, in the early 1950’s; these included the electric guitar, amplifier, and Portable radio. Other Important technological changes included the introduction of the 45, and 33 RPM record. In addition, during this time a number of independence record labels were created. These included studios such as the Chicago based Chess Records and the legendary Sun Studios in Memphis Tennessee. With the creation of these independent labels, performers such as Elvis Presley, and Chuck Berry were given their start. Also during this time, in the early 1950’s, white teenagers were getting bored with their parent’s music; with their own portable radios they started to listen to black radio stations playing Rhythm and Blues; radio stations noticed the shift in their listening audience, and looked for ways to keep this new audience; as a result, the name Rock and Roll was used to keep the white teen audience, and the traditional black listening audience happy. Alan Freed a Cleveland Disk Jockey, is credited with giving the phrase “Rock and Roll” main stream appeal. Once all these factors converged, the stage was set for Rock and Roll music to be heard, and felt throughout the world.
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