Four Artists That Prove Mississippi is the Birthplace of American Music

From the Blues to Gospel to Jazz to Rock and Roll — Get to Know Them in Just a few Songs

Discover the songs that defined these genre-defining artists. Image credit: Elviss Railijs Bitāns

Mississippi has bestowed upon the world a plethora of remarkable contributions. While numerous cultural contributions from our state are nothing short of extraordinary, nothing quite rivals Mississippi's profound impact on American music. Mississippi is recognized as the birthplace of American music. It is the undisputed home of the blues. Without the blues, there is no rock 'n' roll, no R&B, no soul, no jazz, funk, or hip hop. Historically, Mississippi has produced exceptional musicians across every genre of American music. In celebration of Black Music Month this year, we’d like to take a moment to spotlight a selection of Mississippi artists who have significantly enriched the national music landscape.  Meet the Staple Singers, “God’s Greatest Hitmakers" Meet Memphis Minnie, the First Woman to Play Blues on an Electric Guitar Meet Bo Diddley who led the Transition from Blues to Rock and Roll Meet Cassandra Wilson who “Redefined what Jazz Could Sound Like”