
American Originals: 1918 (Live)
Featuring
Did you know?
1/7Performer Biography
Rhiannon Giddens, a singer-songwriter and co-founder of the Grammy Award-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops, received a MacArthur Genius Grant in 2017.
Historical Context
World War I, which ended in November 1918, is seen as the beginning of America's cultural awakening, leading to the blossoming of jazz, country, and blues styles.
Cultural Impact
James Reese Europe's landmark 1919 recordings, including W.C. Handy's 'Memphis Blues' and Shelton Brooks' 'Strutter's Ball', are among the very first widely popular jazz standards.
Notable Performances
The New York 369th Infantry 'Hellfighters' Regimental Band, led by Lt. James Reese Europe, entertained troops and civilians in a ragtime style, popularizing 'ragtimitus' in France.
Cultural Impact
Composers like Stravinsky, Ravel, Poulenc, and Milhaud were inspired to create their own jazz compositions after hearing black regimental bands perform in Paris.
Cultural Impact
The US Army's embrace of African-Americans during World War I, despite shameful treatment, created new opportunities for black Americans, especially musicians.
Performer Biography
The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, founded in 1977, has sold ten million recordings globally since 1980 and has had over 55 recordings appear on the Billboard charts.




































