Essential Works of the African American Vernacular Culture When thinking of musical genres such as jazz, blues, and hip-hop, most Americans do not realize that they are the essential components to the evolution of African American Vernacular Literature. In fact, it is the key factor that brought African American culture into the limelight in America. Since the first black peoples in America were slaves, and were not allowed to read or write, the African American Vernacular Traditions began as completely oral communications in the form of church songs, blues, jazz, rhythm and blues, and hip hop. The African American Vernacular began as Spiritual and Secular works, which portrayed the struggles of the slaves and black population over the …show more content…

As many know, Michael Jackson from the Jackson 5 would go on to be a mega pop artist, possibly the most influential of his time. R&B can be described as blues like with sentimental songs, or upbeat and cheerful, such as Martha and the Vandellas’, Dancin’ in the Street. Another highly famous singer, Aretha Franklin was influential in the Rhythm and Blues frenzy. With her song, Respect, came a complete protest to ‘the man’ as well as men in relationships. With songs and groups such as these, Rhythm and Blues shed even more light on the African American vernacular culture. The most recent African American influenced craze is Hip Hop. It is inspired by many of the same cultures such as Native Americans Caribbean’s and Europeans. Otherwise known as rap, hip hop is a type of “stylized talk between verses that is characteristic of blues and rhythm and blues song forms” (Gates, McKay, 78). It can be traced back everywhere from black preacher’s sermons, to game chants, to barber shop arguing. It also derives from the banter of disc jockeys who spoke over the recording they were spinning (Gates, McKay, 78). It also has traces of scat singing from jazz, and structure from the black arts movement poetry. In the late 70’s hip hop became popular underground in New York City, and finally it was recognized by producers. It’s unique way or using sound systems as instruments by scratching and