Rock vs Blues
Rock and Blues, this may seem to be a bit difficult to differentiate when it comes to technicality but somehow when one listens to it, the difference is evident. Both have a rich history that spawned various sub groups in their respective genre.
Rock
Rock became famous in 1950, though there were several elements of rock that was manifested in some blues and country songs way back in the 1920’s. It is believed to be a fusion of different genres, like country music, folk, blues, gospel songs and jazz. Rock continuously evolves into different spheres, so placing an absolute definition can be quite complex, but its modern basis would be a genre that uses electric guitar, drums and bass.
Blues
Blues, as they say, is perhaps one of the strongest marks that came from Africa and conquered the west. Initially, this is a music that was exclusively made by African- American for African – Americans during the post slavery era; it resonates strongly of spirituality and drum music. Original blues was basically free of form, however it is now generally accepted that it has a 12 bar structure with a particular series of notes.
Difference between Rock and Blues
Form and structure aside, it is better to take a look at their difference in their impact and style. To take into consideration, blues strongly influenced almost all popular music like jazz, country and rock. Rock however created enigma, by defying the conservative norm during its advent by introducing sexually suggestive ideas and dance steps. Blues on the other hand, came to be popular given the fact that it is written entirely to present sorrow, melancholy and the yearning to be liberated from the difficulty that they are facing. It also introduces a multitude of instruments in its beat, such as saxophone, trombone, violin, piano and xylophone.
Rock and blues are undeniably the pillars of what we all call now as music. They have come a long way from their original form and has evolved greatly that they have imprinted their shadow to most of the songs that we listen to right now, and is steadily shaping music worldwide.
| In brief:
• It is believed to be a fusion of different genres, like country music, folk, blues, gospel songs and jazz. • Original blues was basically free of form, however it is now generally accepted that it has a 12 bar structure with a particular series of notes. • Modern basis of rock would be a genre that uses electric guitar, drums and bass. • Rock however created enigma, by defying the conservative norm during its advent by introducing sexually suggestive ideas and dance steps. • Blues on the other hand, came to be popular given the fact that it is written, entirely, to present sorrow, melancholy and the yearning to be liberated from the difficulty that they are facing. |
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