Primary Source Spotlight: Music
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Today in History: Mahalia Jackson
Today in History–October 26–the Library of Congress features Mahalia Jackson, born on this day in 1911. The “Queen of Gospel Song” performed at national venues and sang for four presidents in addition to singing “I’ve Been ‘Buked and I Been Scorned” just before Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 march on Washington. If…
Today in History: W.C. Handy & the Blues
Today in History–September 28–the Library of Congress features William Christopher Handy, whose song the “Memphis Blues” was published on this date in 1912. Handy introduced the blues into mainstream music and became known as the father of the blues. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access a rich collection of blues music…
Today in History: California Folk Music Project
Qanun solo: performed by Bedros Haroutunian Today in History–June 15–the Library of Congress features the California Folk Music Project. Visit the Today in History section to grab hold of some fun trivia and learn about the misnice and the qanun—now there’s a great SCRABBLE® word. Then follow the links below to access more primary source collections related to…