A Video Essay (17+ minutes) about the evolution and development of jazz in the United States. The video showcases music from a variety of genres (e.g. Swing, Bebop, Modal Jazz) and highlights each of their characteristics and unique upbringing in their respective eras. Each era is separated by a decade. You’ll also get to see live performances from famous musicians during their period.
Each jazz subgenre is a reaction to a previous subgenre.
Jazz never stops changing.
While researching jazz, it surprised me just how much went into developing it and the countless number of ways you can apply it to. For example, jazz isn't just for entertainment; it's activism and protest, a booming business, and most importantly, a guiding light for those who can't push themselves forward anymore. Art is ubiquitous, yet there are still people who won't take artists seriously when all the evidence is right in front of their faces. I am me because of art, otherwise, I am nothing. You can have a strong body and mind, but what drives us is the spirit.
