Jazz has always been seen as a bold genre of music. But how did this bold form of music influence women? Or let us say, how did it help women to feel liberated?
In this blog, you will read about some of the most amazing facts that will tell you how and why the era of jazz is closely linked to women’s emancipation. And while you read this blog, do not forget to stay tuned in to Swing Street Radio, the no. 1 jazz music radio station USA for unlimited jazz songs.
How Did Jazz Emancipate Women of Its Time?
Jazz had propelled the Women’s Liberation Movement in the USA in the 1920s. Women were also fighting for adult suffrage at this time which they eventually won. These victories gradually strengthened the faith of women in themselves and jazz just formed a catalyst to help women vent out their concerns through it. Jazz music soon became a platform for rebellion for these women. Not only the young women but the middle-aged and aged ones too soon took to jazz music.
● Economic independence
Women found jobs in the music industry at large and this soon expanded the base for women to be more thoroughly involved in this musical genre. So, the jazz music industry recognized equal participation from women and gave them well-paid jobs. Financial independence became one of the first steps towards women’s liberation.
● Escaping the traditional roles
With the Constitutional Amendments in the 18th and 19th centuries that gave women a lot of rights, this gender now challenged the traditional roles of being mothers and daughters only. They denied being addressed as the ‘weaker sex’ and proved to their counterparts that they were capable of doing more. As a result of their continued frustration, they soon found the jazz clubs and dance halls the most alluring places to relax and unwind. These places helped them to escape the harsh realities of domestic life. Facts have it that the older generations rejected jazz yet jazz music and jazz dance forms rightly became the ideal ways for young women to rebel against their grandparents and parents. Thus, breaking the stereotypes.
● Prolific careers
Women could now go out of their way and establish themselves in careers that they loved. Not only did they begin earning a livelihood but also found themselves as successful singers and music composers. You will see that in the jazz genre, women musicians and singers almost walked shoulder to shoulder with the men musicians. This was something that no one saw coming earlier. Through jazz music, women could now express their desires, feelings, and emotions, and surprisingly they were heard. This became an outcry for all those women who were still shackled by the societal taboos and superstitions, binding them down and holding them back from tasting freedom.
● Changed behavior
As a consequence of the other changes, a combined effect was seen in the women’s behavior. They became more outgoing and knew what was best for them. Daring, street smart, fashionable, and vocal were the main adjectives best suited to describe the women of the jazz genre. Such changes in behavior and character made women choose their own fate and soon jazz music saw the involvement of more women participants.
Final Words:
So, you see jazz was not just a musical genre but it was a way of life. It gave great exposure to women and gave them a new meaning to live. Bringing such facts and more to you is your very own and favorite Swing Street Radio. Listen to jazz songs and numerous other swing music hits that will leave you gaping at the musical wonders. Pep up your life and keep swinging and jazzing with the all-time hits only on one of the big band radio stations i.e. Swing Street Radio.
留言