In the 1950s, the American popular music scene experienced
a dramatic shift with the explosion of rock and roll.
Origins
Although rock music has an easily identifiable style today, few people realize that it was influenced by many different musical styles. These styles include folk, country, blues, and even classical music!
Rock developed at a time when racial tension in the United States was high. Like jazz, rock music represented a fusion of black and white musical style. Although most of the early rock stars were white, many of the songs were written by obscure black songwriters. Because rock remains dominated by white males, few people are aware that the genre was largely developed by black musicians.
Instruments
Rock music tends to rely upon a fairly standard instrumentation. Most rock bands include drums, electric bass, and two electric guitars. The two guitars have different functions within the band. The rhythm guitarist plays chords and creates the harmonic foundation of the music. The lead guitarist plays solos and melodies that interact with those of the vocalist(s).
Although this instrumentation is used by the majority of rock bands, many bands branch out to include unique variations on the standard model. Artists like Elton John and Ben Folds have made the piano a popular rock instrument. Dave Matthews uses wind instruments in his band, and groups like Mumford and Sons and The Avett Brothers have recently popularized American folk instruments like the banjo, mandolin, and dobro.
Characteristics
Like the Swing music of the thirties, rock music tends to follow a fairly standard format that is predictable and easy to dance to. The majority of rock songs are in 4/4 time and are at a moderate to fast tempo. They tend to use the major/minor tonality of European classical music, and they usually follow a strophic, or verse-chorus format. Rock music tends to have lyrics that are very personal, dealing with love (successful or unrequited), rebellion, and youth.
Whether playing at small clubs or large stadiums, rock bands tend to exhibit a lot of swagger and showmanship when they perform. Rock music has close ties with marketing, fashion, and film, so a successful rock musician can become a cultural icon.
Since the 1950s, rock music has become a broad category that has many different subgenres. Some of these include folk rock, country rock, jazz fusion, progressive rock, heavy metal, punk, grunge, and alternative.
For more information about Rock and Roll history, we advice you to check this great website: http://www.rockmusictimeline.com (no affiliation).
