5 Music Genres That Originated in the American South

Musicians from around the United States have created a number of genres through the centuries, and quite a few of those genres were birthed out of the southern states. Let’s have a little music history lesson and explore five music genres that originated in the American South!

1. Blues

Everybody loves the blues in some capacity. This genre of soulful music can be traced back to the 1860s in the Deep South. The origins of the blues started with African-American musicians who created the genre out of work songs, chants, and spirituals. Today, the genre has expanded into jazz and R&B, and blues is considered a major influence behind the early iterations of rock and roll. A few other noteworthy subgenres include country blues, dirty blues, and electric blues.

2. Bluegrass

This form of American roots music is one of the biggest inspirations and influences behind country music and folk music. Bluegrass started around the 1940s in the Appalachian region and notably in states like Kentucky and Tennessee. The name “bluegrass” comes from pioneers of the genre, Bill Monroe And The Blue Grass Boys. Much of bluegrass comes from African-American music and British/Irish folk music, with the introduction of string ensembles. Progressive bluegrass and “jam bands” are considered loose derivatives of traditional bluegrass.

3. Cajun

Louisiana culture is incredibly rich, and Cajun music is just one of many cultural contributions from that particular state. Cajun music is rooted in old ballads from French-speaking Canadians and likely began in the late 1700s. It’s one of the catchiest genres on this list, complete with addictive beats, accordions, triangles, fiddles, and stunning vocals. One popular subgenre of Cajun music today is swamp rock.

4. Rock And Roll

Ah, rock and roll. It’s the biggest, most globally-known genre of music on our list of genres that originated in the American South. The exact pinpoint origin of rock and roll is the subject of much debate among music historians and fans today. However, we do know that it kicked off in the 1940s, likely via African American music from the Deep South like jazz and electric blues, as well as country music. There are virtually endless subgenres and iterations of rock and roll, and it continues to evolve today.

5. Zydeco

Cajun music and zydeco are often confused with one another, though they are separate genres. Zydeco music came to be in the early 20th century in the southwest area of Louisiana by Afro-Americans of the Creole heritage. Songs from this genre have a beautiful blend of blues and Louisiana Creole music. The French accordion and the washboard are staple instruments of the genre.

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