The Blues – Straight Ahead

Air Date:
Heard On The Odyssey Series

The unbroken signature of American blues, sweeps across continents, cultures and communities like the city of Chicago where the blues, deeply entrenched into the town’s musical landscape for generations, harkens back to 19th century rural communities in the Deep South of the United States.

Arguably, American blues as a genre, owes its existence and celebration to Africa. The form, mysterious and popular, is a multi-cultural genre, fusing traditional African music, European folk, American work songs, shouts and chants. The style offers a penetrating glimpse into the secular world of one of North America’s most important artistic statements.

Episode Credits

  • Dr. Jonathan Øverby Host
  • Dr. Jonathan Øverby Producer
  • Joe Hardtke Technical Director

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