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Overview of Culture and Media in African American History

Culture plays a significant role in expressing relief and psychological comfort.
Singing serves not only therapeutic purposes but also aids in community bonding.

Ebony Magazine (Founded by John Johnson, first issue on 11/01/1945)
- Modeled after Life Magazine, focusing on a stylish and glamorous portrayal of African American life.
- Aimed to showcase the brighter side of Black life—family, joy, and culture.
- Gradually included more serious topics, including articles on the civil rights movement.
- Featured famous personalities: Lena Horne and Martin Luther King Jr. highlighted strongly in various issues.
Jet Magazine (Founded by John Johnson, first issue on 11/01/1950)
- Smaller format, akin to a magazine suited for carrying in a handbag.
- Focused on gossip, television, and timely societal concerns.
- Positioned as a more accessible medium for the middle class.
- Notably documented civil rights events, including the aftermath of Emmett Till's murder.

Both magazines contributed to a more profound representation of African Americans beyond suffering and civil rights struggles.
- They illustrated themes of Black achievement and cultural pride, while also addressing socio-economic issues.
- Ebony created a platform for content that reflected the everyday experiences of Black individuals, including themes of divorce and family life.

Music resonated deeply with diverse audiences and served as a unifying force during the civil rights movement.
**Key Songs and Artists: **
- Odetta's "Take This Hammer" (1957): an anthem emphasizing labor and resilience.
- **Role of Music: ** Played during marches and rallies, boosting morale and unity.
- Martin Luther King Jr. deemed music as "the soul of the movement."

Transitioning from Christian hymns to folk, gospel, soul, and funk.
Increased financial support for concerts, raising funds for civil rights causes.
**Prominent Figures: **
- Joan Baez's version of "We Shall Overcome" (1963) highlighted women's visibility in movements.
- Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come" (1964): became a pivotal anthem posthumously after Cooke's murder.
- Nina Simone’s response song to the 16th Street Church bombing (1963) accentuated the urgent call for justice.

Motown's establishment under Barry Gordy in Detroit prioritized the appealing presentation of Black artists.
- Not all Motown music carried revolutionary themes; marketed more towards middle-class respectability.
- Artists like Marvin Gaye gradually challenged the expectations with socially conscious music.
Motown's influence crossed racial lines, inspiring young people regardless of race to embrace Black culture.
Significant groups: The Supremes, The Temptations, and others became icons of mainstream culture.

As civil rights gained traction, so did the cultural expression of various movements:
- Black Power Movement: Shift towards more assertive themes in music, reflecting urgency for change.
- Artists like James Brown declared pride in race with bold performances.
Gil Scott-Heron's work emerged, melding poetry and early rap, influencing contemporary hip-hop.

Freedom Summer Theater (1963-1964)
- Founded by Boris Derby, John O'Neil, and Gilbert Moses to engage with Black experiences.
- Incorporated community participation, blurring the lines between audience and performers.
- Engaged audiences in discussions about the material post-performance.

Key films 1950s-1960s beginning to tackle race relations:
- "The Defiant Ones" (1958): Showcased interracial cooperation during captivity.
- "Imitation of Life" (1959): Focused on biracial identity and societal acceptance challenges.

As cultural expressions evolved, they reflected the broader social complexities and aspirations of African Americans throughout the civil rights movement and beyond.
Engagement through various media illustrates a collective pursuit for identity, acknowledgment, and progression in society.