✊🏿ap african american studies review

Rhythm and blues (R&B)

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

An African American musical genre that combines blues, gospel, and jazz elements with a strong rhythmic emphasis, influential in the development of rock and roll.

AP course connection

Topic 4.17: 4.17 The Evolution of African American Music: From Spirituals to Hip-Hop

Unit 4

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