Music History

History of music genres from jazz to hip-hop

Music Through the Ages

Music has evolved through many genres and eras. Jazz emerged in 1920s America (and SA). Rock and roll arose in the 1950s. Hip-hop started in 1970s New York. In SA, genres evolved from marabi and mbaqanga to bubblegum, kwaito and now amapiano. Each genre reflects its time and place.

Example

SA Music Timeline

• 1920s-40s: Marabi (piano, jazz influence, shebeens) • 1950s-60s: Pennywhistle jive, SA jazz (Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela) • 1970s-80s: Mbaqanga, bubblegum pop (Brenda Fassie) • 1990s-2000s: Kwaito (Arthur Mafokate, Mandoza) • 2000s-10s: House music, Afro-house • 2010s-present: Amapiano (Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa)

Note

Remember

Music genres don't replace each other — they layer and influence each other. SA music has always been connected to social movements: jazz and the anti-apartheid struggle, kwaito and post-1994 freedom, amapiano and youth expression. Music is a mirror of society.

Key Vocabulary

GenreA style or category of music with shared characteristics

JazzMusic featuring improvisation, swing rhythms and blue notes

KwaitoSA music genre blending house beats with hip-hop vocal style

EvolutionHow something gradually changes and develops over time

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