Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)
Publication Date
2024
College
Music and Performing Arts, College of
Department
Music, School of
BURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Virginia Lamothe
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
In my presentation, I will explain how financial institutions and racial segregation influenced the development of Chicago Blues. Songs by Muddy Waters and Eddie Boyd will be used as examples to show the hidden transcript in songwriting. The concept of hidden transcript is the idea that phrases in song lyrics might contain a different meaning for an average listener, but in reality, it holds a subtext that would be evident to those for whom the song was originally written. For example, Eddie Boyd writes a song that seems to be talking about a failing relationship between a man and a woman. The hidden transcript would suggest that the relationship described in Boyd’s song is in reality portraying the relationship that African Americans had with corrupt banks at the time. Through the exploration of hidden text, we can gain a greater understanding of the hardships endured by the African American community in this period of Blues music.
Recommended Citation
Sunderland, Luke J., "The Chicago Blues" (2024). Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS). 379.
https://repository.belmont.edu/burs/379
