OC - USH - The 1950s - Birth of Rock 'n Roll

Why study the birth of Rock 'n Roll? (must choose 2 correct answers)

• Because music has always been important to societies and cultures from the beginning of civilization.

• Because OLD people like Mr. Alkire think it is important.

• Popular music of a given era reflects the culture AND helps shape the culture

• It is all you need to know to understand any culture at anytime.

In which period did rock and roll music originate and evolve in the United States?

• Late 1920s and early 1930s

• Late 1940s and early 1950s

• Late 1960s and early 1970s

• Late 1980s and early 1990s

What is rock and roll music a blend of?

• Classical, reggae, and electronic music

• African American blues, country, jazz, and gospel music

• Pop, hip-hop, and R&B music

• Latin, funk, and disco music

Who is often referred to as the "King of Rock 'n Roll" and was an important trailblazer for the movement in the 1950s?

• Chuck Berry

• Jerry Lee Lewis

• Elvis Presley

• Little Richard

What characterizes the music of Rock 'n Roll according to the learning material?

• Complex melodies and a wide range of notes

• A strong beat and simple melodies

• Slow rhythms and difficult sequences

• Electronic sounds and auto-tuned vocals

What is a common feature of the musical sequences in Rock 'n Roll?

• They are complex and challenging to play

• They are straightforward and easy to remember

• They are often improvised and unpredictable

• They are classical and influenced by opera

Rock 'n Roll melodies are known to be:

• Long and difficult to remember

• Clear and catchy

• Monotonous and repetitive

• Dissonant and challenging

Rock 'n Roll compositions often have:

• A wide variety of notes and complex harmonies

• A limited range of notes

• No discernible patterns or structure

• Multiple layers of electronic effects

The lyrics of Rock 'n Roll songs often focused on:

• Historical events and political issues

• Teenage life and issues of the time

• Abstract concepts and philosophical ideas

• Nature and the wilderness

Which song was played in class that represents the components of an early (1950s) rock song

(hint: released by the early pioneer of Rock 'n Roll and Hall of Fame legend.)

• Houndog by Elvis Presley

• Blueberry Hill by Fats Domino

• Johnny B. Goode by Chuck Berry

• Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' on by Jerry Lee Lewis