Okeh Records

Definition

Okeh Records was an American record label founded in 1918, known for its early recordings of jazz and blues artists, which played a significant role in the popularization of African American music. The label was notable for signing a diverse roster of musicians, including some key figures in early jazz, and for its innovative approaches to recording technology that helped capture the vibrant sounds of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Okeh Records was among the first labels to record African American artists, helping to break down racial barriers in the music industry.
2. The label is credited with launching the careers of influential artists such as Mamie Smith and Louis Armstrong.
3. In 1920, Okeh became the first label to record a full-length race record, which significantly contributed to the rise of the blues genre.
4. The label's recordings often featured unique sound quality due to their use of innovative technology at the time, including improved microphones and recording techniques.
5. Okeh Records' impact extended beyond just music; it helped shape cultural perceptions of African American music and artists during a time of segregation and discrimination.

Review Questions

• How did Okeh Records influence the representation of African American artists in the music industry?
  • Okeh Records played a pivotal role in promoting African American artists at a time when racial segregation was prevalent. By signing and recording diverse musicians, the label helped bring their talents to mainstream audiences. This not only provided a platform for artists like Mamie Smith and Louis Armstrong but also challenged the racial barriers within the industry, paving the way for greater acceptance and recognition of African American music.
• Analyze how Okeh Records contributed to the evolution of recording technology and its impact on early jazz.
  • Okeh Records was at the forefront of adopting innovative recording technologies that significantly enhanced sound quality. Their use of better microphones and advanced recording techniques allowed for more accurate representations of jazz performances, capturing the nuances of rhythm and improvisation. This technical progress not only improved the listening experience but also influenced how musicians approached recording sessions, fostering an environment where jazz could thrive as an evolving art form.
• Evaluate the lasting legacy of Okeh Records on contemporary African American music and culture.
  • The legacy of Okeh Records is evident in contemporary African American music, as it set a precedent for record labels to support diverse artists and genres. By helping establish jazz and blues as significant cultural forces, Okeh paved the way for future generations of musicians who continue to draw inspiration from these styles. The label's early efforts also contributed to ongoing discussions about race and representation in music, making it a critical player in shaping both musical history and cultural identity within America.

Related terms

Race Records: A term used to describe records produced for African American audiences during the early 20th century, primarily featuring genres such as blues and jazz.

Jazz Age: The period in the 1920s and 1930s characterized by the widespread popularity of jazz music, coinciding with significant cultural shifts in America.

Alabama Blues: A specific subgenre of blues music that originated in Alabama, often highlighting the struggles and experiences of African Americans in the South.