Music, over the years, has changed and evolved all over the world. The United States, a young country in comparison to many others, has developed its own type of music. American music, however, is not entirely original. Early American musicians were influenced by other countries’ music. Despite assistance from foreigners, the United States formed its own style of music as it grew. Though American music was originally greatly influenced by African and English music, it soon evolved into its own category.
Before the Revolutionary War, religious music was extremely popular. The violin and the flute were the most common instruments for a man to play, but many others were still well liked. For women, it was acceptable to play English guitars or harpsichords. Songs were commonly about love. Because, during this time, the United States belonged to England, they had a large influence on American music.
During the Revolutionary War, folk music was the most popular genre. Yankee Doodle was a well-liked song, and is still well known today. Other songs were mainly written about certain battles. William Billings, considered to be the first American composer, was actively writing during this period. Despite the fact the two countries were at war, England still remained a large influence on early American music.
Old-time and country music were the most popular genres of music after the Revolutionary War. America’s favorite songs were still from other countries, most still having a religious connotation. Most songs were still about love, but their topic was slowly changing to discuss their newly found independence. Slaves really began to embrace music, using what they had for instruments. They were very creative while composing. Religious, work, and recreational songs could be heard while those activities were taking place. During this time, “Amazing Grace” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” were written. “The Star-Spangled Banner,” America’s national anthem, was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. John Newton wrote “Amazing Grace” about his experiences on a slave ship. Between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, the United States grew not only in size, but also greatly expanded its musical repertoire. America began to create its own type of music, taking less lead from other countries and going for itself.
The Civil War was a war between the countries, but it was also a war involving music. Many songs discussed politics or military events. During this time, the genres diversified, from Mother Goose to gospel music to war music. Africans had a large influence on the music during this period. Also, Julia Ward Howe wrote “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” considered the Civil War anthem, gaining her much recognition despite the fact that she was a woman.
After the Civil War, new genres of music unique to America came about, with Scott Joplin creating ragtime music. Scott Joplin was a very important figure in United States’ history, since he was the first black man to write a grand opera. Also, he combined European styles with African harmony and rhythm, creating the first “true American” style. Popular songs included “Clementine” and “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad.” The phonograph, invented in 1877, was important to the expansion of music by allowing songs to be recorded in one place and heard in another.
