How Did Rock And Roll Influence The Culture Of The 1950's

A disc jockey by the name of Alan Freed was the first to “attached rock and roll to a musical style (Campbell, 2008, pg. 101).” Although “rock and roll was originally a euphemism for the sexual act (Campbell, 2008, pg. 101)” and was later a code name for rhythm and blues, it would soon break out as its own style. Rock and roll came together in the 1950’s with a new sound and a new attitude. Teenagers during this time had more money and more time than those in the past and they spent both on rock and roll music. They were quickly drawn to the sounds and the teen geared lyrics. The rebellious nature that rock and roll stood for in the 1950’s was an immediate attraction for those interested in deviating from the norms of society. What could be

Elvis Presley came onto the scene with a sound all his own. Adding to that original sound, was the whole image that Elvis brought when he performed. “Little Richard brought substance and style to rock and roll (Campbell, 2008, pg. 115).” Rock and roll truly began to take shape when Chuck Berry brought in various elements to the genre, including the beat and his vigorous guitar playing. Each of these musicians and others that helped shape rock and roll brought their own style to the music that came from new ideas and old influences of the past. Rock and roll of the 1950’s had an edgy sound and rebellious attitude, so it seems difficult to think that it had various roots, some of which include parlors songs, British Isles folk music, country, blues, and many more genres. Over many years, elements and instruments from diverse genres of music were tweaked, combined, and/or were invented to slowly transform into what we know as rock and roll

Immigrants came to the United States for more opportunities. They left behind many struggles and rough living conditions to make a better life for themselves, and their families. With the struggles they left behind, they faced more obstacles in the United States. They faced discrimination in many places and had to search for jobs, often taking strenuous and low-paying positions. Those that came to the United States had difficulties providing for their families and were often living in poor conditions. These struggles that they left behind and the new obstacles they faced made for great stories. The lyrics of folk music highlighted the obstacles and barrier that they lived through every day. These real stories were presented to the world of music through folk music. Many times, these stories did include struggles but also put a spotlight on love, lose, and down-home lifestyles. Their storytelling of folk music was carried through the years and became a part of the rock and roll genre. Whether it is stories of cars, girls, surfing, or something along the lines of taking a political stand, rock and roll has implemented the storytelling of folk music. It relays certain times and periods that bring meaning and even a sense of imagery to the music. Storytelling, especially those that highlight real life situations, helps people connect to the