Brief History of Jazz

by Liz Publika

Jazz emerged around the turn of the 20th century in New Orleans, Louisiana. The major port city quickly became a melting pot of cultures where musicians were exposed to an array of different types of music, ranging from European classical to South American folk. The resulting fusion of influences coupled with an emphasis on individual expression through the art of improvisation became its own style of music that we commonly refer to as jazz. In many ways, it is a reflection of the cultural diversity and individualism that define the United States of America.

Throughout its history, jazz has straddled the line between popular music and art music, and has expanded to a point where its styles are so varied that each one has its own distinct sound. By the 1920s and 1930s, Chicago and Kansas City had thriving jazz scenes; by the 1940s, New York had taken the lead, with fans flooding the dance halls to see Big Band ensembles play swing music — a direct outgrowth of jazz.

More recently, incredible musicians inspired by the early days of jazz have further diversified the genre, adding elements of R&B, blues, funk, rock, soul, and pop. Among these were Nina Simone, Etta James, Amy Winehouse, Caro Emerald, Esperanza Spalding, and many other gifted artists.

Note* Image is in the public domain.