Introduction: A Misconception about the Origins of Music
It is often suggested that the blues is the 'mother of all modern music.' However, this claim is incorrect and based on a lack of understanding about the history and origins of various musical genres. The blues, while influential, do not predate many other genres of music by centuries.
The Complex History of Music
Much to the contrary, the roots of the blues can be traced back to African spiritual music, field working songs, chants, and call-and-response styles. These musical traditions emerged long after the invention of music itself, which can be dated back to 3800 years ago on a Sumerian clay tablet. Even considering the timerange between the invention of music and the emergence of blues, many genres and styles have been around for much longer.
Take, for example, classical music, which dates back several centuries before the blues. The use of musical notation, which originated in the Catholic church to ensure uniformity in singing, can be traced back even further. Before that, there was church music from as far back as the 10th century, and hymns in modern hymnals can trace their origins to songs from the 15th century. Some of these hymns are still sung today, emphasizing the longevity and continuity of music.
The Influence of Blues on Modern Music
While the blues have a significant influence on modern music, especially in the realm of rock music, they did not spring forth from a vacuum. Drums, flutes, and the human voice are among the oldest musical instruments and sounds known to humankind. The blues, therefore, are a composite of various musical traditions, including vocal techniques and instrumentations that have been evolving for millennia.
A documentary called 'Rumble,' available on Netflix, celebrates the contributions of Link Wray, a legendary guitarist, and explores how the 'hollerin' aspect of blues singing sounds like it might have roots in Choctaw women's traditional vocal power. This stark and raw form of vocalization, combined with instrument play, is a likely precursor to the more structured forms of music that would follow.
The True Mother of All Music
Ultimately, attributing the 'mother of all music' title to any single genre or musical form is overly simplistic. When we consider the significant role that music has played in human culture from the very beginning, we realize that every note, every melody, and every rhythm that has ever been sung or played can be seen as the lineage of all music. Whether it's the rhythmic tapping of a stick on a log half a million years ago, the soulful vocalizations of ancient tribes, or the complex chords and rhythms of contemporary rock music, every note adds to the tapestry of music we enjoy today.
Conclusion: Embracing the Rich History of Music
Music, like language, is a communal and evolving art. It is shaped by countless influences and passes through generations, continually adapting and reinventing itself. The blues, while undeniably influential, are just one thread in the vast and complex fabric of music. Understanding this can enrich our appreciation of the rich heritage and diverse influences that contribute to the musical landscape we experience today.