The Effects of Racial Music on Rock and Roll “African Americans invented rock and roll,” observed a prominent American historian. “Without their musical contributions, we wouldn't have the genre.” Based on what you learned in History 105 about the origins and first decade of Rock and Roll in the United States, is this an accurate statement? Why or why not? Rock and roll is a genre of popular music that originated in the United States of America in the late 1940s and early 1950s. It derives from African American roots in musical styles such as gospel, boogie woogie, jazz, jump, and rhythm & blues, but also has strong roots in hillbilly music that would later be known as country. Rock and Roll has actually been around since the 70s. Although considered the day Rock 'n' Roll was born, many other events in American history gave foundation to this beloved idea. Rock 'n' Roll is much more than just music, it is rather the movement that emphasizes cultural imperialism. Rock had also promoted a culture of comfort and freedom from social constraints. Although the style of "rock music" is easily adaptable to many different sounds, it is still completely identified by its decidedly amplified rhythm. The sudden worldwide popularity of rock and roll has had an unprecedented social impact. Rock 'n' roll influenced lifestyles, fashion, attitudes and language in a way that few other social developments have equaled. The social impact is so great that rock stars are revered around the world. In its early years, many adults condemned the musical style, placed a stigma on its name, and forbade their children from listening to it and following it. Many considered Rock 'n' Roll culture to be a bad influence on all people, but as the genre aged and the aging audience matured, Rock was respected and this great influence of African-American culture in the industry music began in the Great Migration. A period of change involving a large number of African Americans migrating to northern cities. This was due to aspirations of finding a new life away from the South. This migration has caused positive changes in wages and living conditions. This great change in North American society ushered in the birth of Okeh Records. Okeh was a specialized record company as it produced a lot of jazz music. In 1926, Columbia Records purchased Okeh Records but allowed them to remain as they were, a solitary label. The only good that would come from this deal is that Okeh would grow as he would now be able to reach new heights behind the power of such a big label. Victor, Paramount and Golden Age jumped on the boat and began looking into the racial music business that would appeal to African American consumers and, later, the white race as well. This was the rise of the race