W.C. Handy: Father of the Blues (Step 3)

ReadOasis Step 3
(Part 2)

The First Blues Music Ever Published: The Memphis Blues

It is significant that the Father of the Blues came from a religious home. This highlights a meaningful musical and cultural fact. Blues and gospel music share roots and similarities. They share musical qualities, such as “blue notes.” But more importantly, blues singers often cry out to God as gospel singers do. Handy would say that both genres reflect a desire for freedom.

Blues singers may sing at clubs, and ...