The Jubalaires: Predecessors of Rap
Rap is a music genre that is heavily influenced by rhythmic speech and lyrical finesse. It has changed and evolved throughout the years as many talented individuals have incorporated their style and approach towards this type of music. However, while many may associate the foundations of rap with old school hip hop dating from the mid-to-late twentieth century, its origins and roots go way back to early American musical gospel groups, as exemplified by The Jubalaires.
The Jubalaires were a musical group active from the 1930s to the 1950s, with its members consisting of Caleb Ginyard, George McFadden, Ted Brooks, Orville Brooks, and later on Willie Johnson. The group initially sang under the name of the Royalty Harmony Singers, with many of their songs issued and released by Queens Records, with later songs releasing under Kings Record.
Many of their songs revolve around Christian spiritual gospels that heavily incorporate elements seen in modern rap. These elements primarily consist of rhyme, rhythmic speaking, harmonizing vocals, along with singing in well structured verses. Although their style of music was not directly referred to as time during that time period, the consistency of rhythmic verses in their songs are an early indication of what would eventually evolve into the rap genre. The group is also known for their well harmonized choruses, which is also referred to as the jubilee style of singing.
Throughout the time this quartet group of singers were active, they have sung many songs that are quite reflective of the genre of rap along with the themes of their act. Some of their best known songs include “Noah”, “The Preacher and the Bear”, “Ezekiel”, along with “Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition.”
By Andy Zhu.
Work Cited
Sarachik, Justin. “The Jubalaires Were Doing Gospel Rap Back in the 1940s.” Rapzilla, 11 July 2016, rapzilla.com/2016-07-the-jubalaires-were-doing-gospel-rap-back-in-the-1940s/.
“On This Day in Black Music History : Jay Warner : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming.” Internet Archive, Hal Leonard, 1 Jan. 1970, archive.org/details/onthisdayinblack00warn/page/n5/mode/2up.
