Jazz is recognised as a form of musical expression and is associated with freedom. Jazz allows for not only emotional freedom, but musical freedom as well. Jazz emerged during the late 19th century and early 20th century, centralizing in New Orleans due to New Orleans ' racial and cultural diversity. Jazz allowed blacks to heal from slavery and did not follow the accepted or liked styles of music during the time it emerged; therefore, it became a cultural outlet and movement. Jazz artists were able to play whatever came to mind in a song releasing their inner feelings, thoughts and stories through the use of improvisacion. Jazz also allowed for women to emerge into the music scene as both performers, and composers, which gave women the freedom