Mitch DodgeWith Black history month upon us, it was a must we reflected and educated ourselves on a very important subject in particular, Black history in House Music. House music was created by various DJ’s and producers in the mid-80’s from the Chicago area, and was adapted heavily by the Black and Gay community from roughly 1977 and 1982. Such artists as FrankieKnuckles, Jesse Saunders, Derrick Carter and Chip E. are just some of the pioneers and legends of the genre you are probably familiar with.
One of my personal favorites I wanted to talk about today is Jesse Saunders, who has been credited for taking House music to the masses. Saunders used his musical repertoire early in his career and championed his turntable skills to adapt House music to a broader audience. As a DJ Jesse knows exactly how to drive moments of desired parts of songs and stripped down drum and bass patterns, a tradition and staple he is known for today. Jesse also opened and owned the legendary ‘Playground’ nightclub in 1982 in Chicago.
Jesse has a deep history in particular with civil rights in America. Jesse’ maternal grandfather, Robert H. Miller, was voted the ‘Mayor’ of Bronzeville (the then Black section of Chicago) from 1937 to 1939. Robert also became involved in the American civil rights movement, having walked with MLK Jr. in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, later erecting a statue in honor of king Selma, Alabama.
I have always had a love for history, and in honor of Black History month it was proper to further educate myself on something I love so much. House music and Black history go hand in hand, beyond your favorite Beyonce album, or some DJ telling you to ‘put your hands in the air’. So the next time you hear your favorite 4/4 rhythm, maybe check out some Jesse Saunders while you’re at it.
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