Electric Blues in the Postwar Era

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to the development and characteristics of Chicago electric blues in the postwar era.

Chicago Electric Blues

A postwar urban blues style derived from the Mississippi Delta tradition, characterized by a more cosmopolitan sound.

Muddy Waters

A prominent blues musician from Chicago who integrated electric instrumentation and was influenced by traditional Delta blues.

Bottleneck Slide Guitar Technique

A guitar playing technique used by Delta blues musicians, where a slide is used to create smooth glissando effects.

Acoustic to Electric Transition

The shift made by many blues musicians like Muddy Waters from acoustic instruments to electric to meet the demands of urban audiences.

Lively Black Music Scene

The vibrant music culture in Chicago during the 1940s, which competed with other major cities for prominence in the music world.

Delta Blues

A style of blues music originating from the Mississippi Delta, reflective of African American folk traditions.

Urban Orientation

The adaptation of traditional blues music to fit urban settings and the experiences of new city dwellers.

Rural Past

The historical context of origins for many black musicians, which often includes a desire to move beyond traditional rural music styles.

Dance Music

Music that is intended primarily for dancing, which influenced the electric blues style to incorporate a more upbeat and energetic approach.

Blues Licks

Short phrases or riffs played on the guitar that are characteristic of the blues genre.