Lecture 7

Difference Between Independent Labels and Major Labels

• Major Labels:

  • Examples: Decca, RCA, CBS, Capitol.

  • Control over production, marketing, and sales processes.

  • Strict division of labor among departments.

  • Employ highly paid professionals for diverse roles:

    • Composing and arranging music.

    • Recording artists and engineering pressings.

    • National and international marketing.

    • Distribution to various venues and retail outlets.

• Independent Labels:

  • Example: Chess Records, operated with fewer staff.

  • Small teams composed of individuals like Willie Dixon and Leonard Chess.

  • Creative solutions for budget constraints (e.g., using a studio toilet for acoustic effects).

  • Less formal structures, making them nimble in promotional strategies.

The Rise of Independent Labels in the Post-War Era

• Growth of new radio stations operated on limited budgets.

• Independent labels exploited their nimbleness by:

  • Distributing records directly from the trunks of cars.

  • Using informal promotion tactics such as bribing DJs.

• Major labels lost some market share due to their inability to adopt these strategies.

Market Shift in the Late 1940s to 1950s

• In 1948-49, major labels released over 80% of top 10 hits.

• By the 1950s, independent labels began capturing more market share.

• Example of independent success:

  • The Orioles' cover of "Crying in the Chapel" hit number one on the R&B chart and number 11 on the pop chart, produced by Jubilee.

Introduction of the Top 40

• The Top 40 radio format was introduced in 1951.

• Originated from an observation by Todd Storz at a New Orleans bar regarding jukebox play.

• The Top 40 compiled and played the most popular songs repeatedly.

• Influenced by rapid changes in recording technology in the 1950s and 1960s (high-fidelity sound, stereophonic systems).

Interactive Radio and Listener Influence

• Radio stations became more interactive, allowing listeners to request songs.

• Gave a sense of influence and control to the public over music played on the air.

• Coincided with the emergence of rock and roll as a significant genre in American music.

Cultural Influences Leading to Rock and Roll

• The evolution of American popular music included influences from classical, jazz, blues, and country.

• Economic conditions during the 1940s and 50s allowed for a wider dissemination of previously marginalized music styles.

• Conflicts between industry groups like ASCAP and NAB contributed to a fertile environment for new genres.

Parental Concerns and Controversies

• Many parents disapproved of rock and roll music, associating it negatively with suggestive lyrics.

• Notable controversial songs included "60-Minute Man" and "Bow Legged and Poodle."

• Debate among historians regarding the classification of rock and roll as a distinct genre.

Musical Origins of Rock and Roll

• Louis Jordan's assertion: "Rock and roll is white folks doing rhythm and blues."

• Discussion about the blend of rhythm and blues with country western music.

• Acknowledgment of other cultural influences, including Latino and Caribbean music.

Urban Influence on Rock and Roll

• Rock and roll emerged from urban centers, particularly in culturally rich areas like New Orleans.

• New Orleans' cultural diversity played a crucial role in shaping the music form.

• Notable figures like Cosimo Matassa and Dave Bartholomew contributed significantly to the genre's development.

Key Personalities in Rock and Roll History

• Dave Bartholomew:

  • Multifaceted artist: singer, instrumentalist, writer, and band director.

  • Mentored Fats Domino; contributed hits like "Ain't That a Shame."

• Little Richard:

  • Key figure in rock and roll; known for his energetic performing style.

  • Recorded "Tutti Frutti," which became a significant hit and appealed across racial lines.

• Demonstrated the challenges that artists like Fats Domino faced due to cover versions being introduced by white artists.

• Recognition of how white covers sometimes helped the original artists gain recognition.

Conclusion: Impact of Rock and Roll

• Rock and roll's emergence is seen as a unique multicultural phenomenon rooted in urban experiences.

• It shaped future music styles and continues to influence artists across genres.