African American Music Influence

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Music is a unique aspect within the African American subculture (Williams & Banjo, 2013, p. 196). Similar to other cultures, African Americans work diligently to maintain their assets and traditions (Templeton, 2008, p.54). Dated back as early as the 1600s, when their forefathers were bought to America (Barrow et al, 2007, p393), music influenced their racial identity. Music stimulates the need to contend with life, interact with feelings (Williams & Banjo, 2013, p. 200), and to master self-efficacy (Barrow et al, 2007, p. 398) no matter the age of the listener. Whether it is gospel or secular music, lyrics in music influence the actions (Majied, 2013, p. 269) and shapes the brain’s development, especially during adolescence. Adolescent years