The Development of R&B and the Early Part of Rock: A Detailed Analysis

This essay explores the development of R&B and early rock music, focusing on key artists and their contributions. It examines the Ronettes' innovative use of the Wall of Sound technique in 'Be My Baby,' Bob Dylan's unconventional vocal style and its emotional impact, and the distinct approaches of James Brown and Aretha Franklin in establishing soul music. The analysis highlights the cultural and personal influences shaping their music, from Franklin's gospel roots to Brown's focus on Afro-American empowerment, providing a comprehensive overview of this transformative period in music history. Desklib provides access to similar essays and study resources for students.

Running head: THE DEVELOPMENT OF R&B AND THE EARLY PART OF ROCK
THE DEVELOPMENT OF R&B AND THE EARLY PART OF ROCK
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1THE DEVELOPMENT OF R&B AND THE EARLY PART OF ROCK
Part One
‘Be My Baby’ by Ronettes was one of the first song in which music composer and
song writer Phil Spector implemented his Wagnerian approach of what he called Wall of
Sound ("The Ronettes: Be My Baby (Spector / Barry / Greenwich, 1963)", 2018). Adding a
new and experimental flavour to the contemporary Rock n Roll music, the song has rightfully
received several accolades as one of the pioneers of the genre. However, the excitement and
impulse of Spector for making the experiment is clearly visible in the musical arrangement,
especially through the vehement use of multiple instruments, which a tonal base that
continues throughout the song. Besides the backing of the basic rock band, if the other
instruments were used more sensibly, it could have made the recording sound even better.
While, at times, the tone weighs down the quality of the song by suppressing the voice of
Veronica, the use of chorus and momentary harmony displays sheer artistry.
Part Two
In spite of raging controversies about the voice of Bob Dylan, one must agree that it is
unconventional to say the least. The coarseness of his voice is increasing with age, which
results in his inability to approach tonal variations which he could do earlier, and this may be
attributed to his extreme smoking habits. Although his voice, along with the harmonica, often
goes off-pitch, what grab the attention of the listener is the emotion and the soul that he gives
into his music, which is often reflected through his intonation and the attitude with which he
delivers the lines. The untrained and non-refined naturalness authenticity of his voice runs
parallel to the honesty and soul with which he sings, which is the main USP of Dylan and
helps to familiarize his audience ("Bob Dylan The Times They Are A Changin' 1964", 2018).

2THE DEVELOPMENT OF R&B AND THE EARLY PART OF ROCK
Part Three
Popularly regarded as the ‘Godfather of Soul’ and the ‘Queen of Soul’ , James Brown
and Aretha Franklin, had made considerable contributions in the establishment of a new
genre named ‘Soul Music’ in the 1950s and 60s America. Rooted in the traditional Afro-
American gospel music, this genre of music can be seen as a search for identity. However,
there are clear distinctions between the musical nuances of Franklin and Brown, which
largely results from their personal experiences. Having received many accolades since
childhood for her melodious voice and mastery over the piano, both in terms of sacred church
music, Franklin’s music attempted to bridge the gap between the secular and the spiritual.
Conversely, troubled childhood and personal life led James Brown’s music to concentrate
upon the cultural context, in both lyrics and music, thereby focusing on the empowerment of
the Afro-Americans. Unlike Franklin, who had considerable versatility, Brown’s music dealt
more with the sub-genre of ‘funk’ music ("Play that funky music white boy James Brown",
2018). A certain amount of experimental groove is visible in the music of both (YouTube,
2018).

3THE DEVELOPMENT OF R&B AND THE EARLY PART OF ROCK
Reference List
Bob Dylan The Times They Are A Changin' 1964. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7qQ6_RV4VQ
Play that funky music white boy James Brown. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ix-fKjTYFM8
The Ronettes: Be My Baby (Spector / Barry / Greenwich, 1963). (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9xxURZ1v3g
YouTube. (2018). Precious Lord You've Got A Friend - Aretha Franklin, Gospel Greats 1999
album. [online] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbwosNdlZy4
[Accessed 17 Sep. 2018].