If music had grandparents, they’d be blues, jazz, and R&B. Wise, cool, and still running the show with great and fresh influence in the music world.
Blues is a music genre that originated among African Americans in the Deep South of the United States around the 1860s. The English phrase “blue devils” referred to the upsetting hallucinations brought on by severe alcohol withdrawal and later was shortened to “the blues.” Born from the stories and struggles of African Americans, voicing their “personal woes in a world of harsh reality: a lost love, the cruelty of police officers, oppression at the hands of white folks, and hard times.” Blues laid the foundation and incorporated work songs, field hollers, shouts, and chants. Early traditional blues verses often consisted of a single line repeated four times. Great artists shined in that genre, like B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Even films like Sinners, which center on blues, bring the genre’s rich and emotional depth to a new generation.
Jazz followed, a music genre that originated in the African American communities in New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most people consider Buddy Bolden the first jazz musician, and he was even once named as the “first man of jazz.” With its roots in blues, hymns, marches, African rhythmic rituals, and European harmony. Bursting with great complexity, wild solos, and smooth style. Jazz is characterized by complex chords and improvisation. In most performances, players play solos that they make up on the spot, which requires great skill. The greatest jazz musicians of all time: Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, and John Coltrane. 
Then came R&B (rhythm and blues), fusing soul and rhythm, becoming a base for modern pop, hip-hop, and more. Originated within African American communities in the 1940s. R&B is one of the most listened to genres in our generation, with great artists like Brent Faiyaz, Giveon, and Daniel Caesar. Even your favorite tracks probably borrowed a thing or two from these genres, as it will continue to evolve and hold great influence in music.
In our personal opinion, these genres are our personal favorites, as they carry raw and soulful emotions that are relatable and always match our moods, and they hit every time. You should give it a try and have a listen if you haven’t, as they’re versatile genres.
By : Fatma Berisha & Marwa Mohammed