![]() In boogie-woogie, the syncopation of the weaker beats is essential. The harmony created by both hands is an invitation to move and dance. The right hand has the freedom to improvise by playing counter-rhythms, ostinato, riffs, licks, or short melodies. The left hand plays steady and repeating base patterns that will keep the rhythm during the songs. To establish this, both hands need to play something dissimilar but at the same time, keep a musical connection. The most important characteristic of boogie-woogie piano music is that musicians would emphasize rhythm over melody. ![]() The music is using blues scales, is adding syncopation to emphasize weak beats, is usually played in a 12-bar blues, and the performer improvises over the chord progressions. By 1920 it reached its peak thanks to the contributions of Bessie Smith and Robert Johnson.īoogie-woogie piano music is following the many traditions of the blues. As the blues evolved, it gained popularity. ![]() It got characterized by sad melodies and simple harmonies. ![]() In this early form, the music was slow and emotional. In early blues music, African-American communities combined plantation songs with religious spirituals and African rhythms. There is no doubt that boogie-woogie music has strong connections to the blues.
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