National Day of Rock ‘n’ Roll – July 7, 2024

History of National Day of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Christina Alexander created the National Day of Rock ‘n’ Roll in 2020 to celebrate the popular musical genre. The origins and history of Rock ‘n’ Roll are a matter of debate among musical historians; however, most agree it draws from African musical tradition and European instrumentation. All versions point to the 50s and ’60s being its formative years, and no matter the history, critics agree that Rock ‘n’ Roll, later known as Rock music, gave birth to legendary greats such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Bono, and Jon Bon Jovi, who have all left their mark.

Rock and roll music came about through the influences of country music and rhythm and blues. Initially, the lead instruments were saxophone or piano. Later, in the 1950s, the guitar took over, and further down the line, two electric guitars were the norm. Even though the genres from which it evolved were predominantly Black Americans, White Americans dominated Rock ‘n’ Roll. The first recorded song was released in 1951, and in 1952, the iconic DJ, Alan Freed, organized the first-ever Rock ‘n’ Roll concert. While the genre was only recognized two years later, in 1954, its cultural impact was far-reaching, affecting fashion, language, attitudes, and lifestyle.

Technological developments at the time also contributed to its rise in popularity, including the electric guitar and drums, the amplifier and microphone, and the 45 rpm record. Independent record labels emerged to change the record industry, and radio stations were keen to play music to hungry listeners. These changes inspired rock musicians to exploit this electronic potential of instruments giving rise to rock bands such as The Beatles (1960), Nirvana (1987), and Queen (1970).