TRANSCRIPT:
I’m Mark Rapp, and this is Rapp on Jazz.
From the Great Depression through World War II and into the postwar era, jazz has been a story of resilience and innovation.
In the 1930s, swing lifted spirits and brought people together during hard times.
During World War II, small combos and the rise of bebop reflected the need for creative expression in challenging circumstances.
After the war, jazz evolved further with cool jazz and hard bop, pushing musical boundaries and breaking social barriers.
By the 1950s and ’60s, jazz had become a global language, embracing Latin rhythms, African and Asian influences, and new electric sounds.
Jazz has adapted, innovated, and inspired through every era while staying true to its roots.
The journey of jazz reminds us that creativity thrives even in difficult times. Its rhythm, color, and spirit continue to shape music, culture, and the world.
This has been Rapp on Jazz, a co-production of ColaJazz and South Carolina Public Radio, made possible by the ETV Endowment of South Carolina.