-Origins of Race in the U.S.:1) Watch: The Origin of Race in the USAhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVxAlmAPHec2) Read: “The History of the Idea of Race,” Audrey Smedley (8 pages)-Work Songs, Field Ho

1.Discussion:

Watch: The Origins of Race in the USA, and Read: Smedley.(At least 1000 words)

1. What is the difference between race and skin color? Why was the idea of race constructed? By whom? When? How have the definitions of white and non-white changed over time? What does it mean that race is a ‘fluid social construct’?

2. What is systemic racism? What are some examples?

2. Assignment:

Respond to all of the following prompts. Total word count should be at least 1000 words. Cite all required readings and films at least once (except The Origins of Race in the USA, respond to that in the discussion board).

Discuss African-American 1) work songs, 2) field hollers, 3) folk songs, and 4) spirituals as forms of resistance, including the use of double meanings within songs. Give at least one example of each of the 4 types.

Discuss the blues as a form of empowerment. Include a discussion of Michael Cary’s notions of ‘blues power’ and ‘blues ideology’. How are these expressed through blues songs and instruments? How does the stereotypical lifestyle of a blues musician exemplify blues power?

Discuss the political and historical significance of the song ‘Crazy Blues’ as sung by Mamie Smith. How does the song speak to political issues of the time? Connect it to the immediate historical context and other similar songs of the period. Include a discussion of the African American ‘badman’ and discuss how Smith transformed this notion

Discuss the song “Strange Fruit” as sung by Billie Holiday. Who wrote the song, and what inspired it? Why was this event particularly significant, and how did it stand out from other similar events? What were the general reactions to the song by audiences and the music industry, why? What was Holiday’s relationship with the song, including her first impression, effects on her career, and personal associations? Listen to the Lupe Fiasco song “Strange Fruition”; compare it to "Strange Fruit" in terms of lyrical themes and overall sound.

Discuss the role/function of music in the American Civil Rights Movement. Include at least two examples of ‘freedom songs,’ and how they were related to (transformed from) older African-American music. You must cite the Reagon reading at least once, and the film: Soundtrack for a Revolution (either quote or paraphrase).

3. Extra Credit:

Read Robert McMichael, “We-Insist-Freedom Now.” Offer at least a 700 word summary of the article. Include mention of at least 3 major artists and 3 songs. Also, additionally, address the following: much of this jazz music is instrumental; discuss what effect not having lyrics might have on the interpretation and reception of this music.