The Role of Music on Society

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The Role of Music in Society Music plays a role in societies around the world and has for thousands of years. Particularly concentrating on the effects of music in American society, music in America dates back to when the first Europeans and Africans arrived in North America. Throughout American history songs have been produced that play a major role in our society. These songs help society express feelings, point of views, and also help people of society relate to one another. Through exploring the history of songs, the role of songs in society, and how they express the point of views of society an understanding of how important music is to our population will be discovered. Starting with the early history of America (1607-1820), songs of this time come from British, English, African-American, and French inheritance. The earliest songs that are most recognized by Americans are songs like “Yankee Doodle” and the “Star Spangled Banner.” Along with these two songs hymns, ballads, and drinking songs came from the English descent. American songs grew popularity through shows known as minstrel shows. These shows spread comic relief and political influence through songs performed by blackface performers in the 1800’s. Songs are familiar to our society today derived from productions in minstrel shows such as, “Turkey in the Straw” (1824) and “Oh Susanna” (1854). With minstrel shows being the beginning foundation of how songs spread throughout America, advancements in technology made it possible for Americans to hear music in their own homes and this made songs have an even stronger role in society. Music can change a person’s mood or even persuade them to do something. In society music can be a powerful tool because when music is put into a song it can persuade, change a society’s mood, and bring people together on topics. Songs are said to persuade
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