Rockabilly

Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music, dating back to the early 1950s in the United States. It is a blend of country music (often referred to as "hillbilly music" in the 1940s and 1950s) and rhythm and blues. The term "rockabilly" itself is a portmanteau of "rock" (from "rock and roll") and "hillbilly".

Origins

Rockabilly's roots lie in the American South, where African American and white American musical traditions began to merge. Artists like Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis were among the first to popularize the genre. The Sun Records label in Memphis, Tennessee played a significant role in the development and promotion of rockabilly music.

Characteristics

Rockabilly music is characterized by a strong rhythm, simple melodies, and a distinctive "slap-back" echo sound. The typical rockabilly band consists of an electric guitar, a double bass, and a drum kit. The acoustic guitar is also commonly used. The music often features a fast tempo and energetic vocals.

Influence and Legacy

Rockabilly has had a lasting impact on the development of rock music. It influenced the British Invasion bands of the 1960s and the punk rock movement of the 1970s. The genre experienced a revival in the 1980s with bands like The Stray Cats leading the "neo-rockabilly" movement.

Rockabilly Fashion and Culture

Rockabilly is not just a music genre but also a cultural movement. Rockabilly fashion includes elements such as leather jackets, pompadour hairstyles, and pin-up clothing. The rockabilly dance style is energetic and often includes jive and swing dance moves.

See Also

• List of rockabilly musicians
• Rockabilly Hall of Fame
• Sun Records

External Links

• Rockabilly Hall of Fame
• Sun Records