Atlantic Records

Definition

Atlantic Records is a prominent American record label founded in 1947, known for its influential role in the development of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and soul music. The label has been crucial in promoting and supporting numerous artists who shaped the sound of modern music, particularly during the rise of rock and roll in the 1950s and the emergence of legendary pioneers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Atlantic Records was founded in New York City by Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson, initially focusing on jazz before expanding into R&B and rock and roll.
2. The label was instrumental in launching the careers of several legendary artists, including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones.
3. In the 1950s, Atlantic Records became known for its distinctive sound, which emphasized a blend of various musical styles that appealed to a wide audience.
4. The success of Atlantic Records helped establish New York as a major center for the music industry during the rock and roll era.
5. Atlantic Records continues to be influential today, maintaining a diverse roster of artists across multiple genres while upholding its legacy from the mid-20th century.

Review Questions

• How did Atlantic Records influence the development of rock and roll during the 1950s?
  • Atlantic Records played a pivotal role in shaping rock and roll in the 1950s by promoting a diverse array of artists who blended elements of rhythm and blues with other musical styles. The label's focus on creating high-quality recordings allowed them to capture the energy and excitement of this emerging genre. Notable artists like Ray Charles and Ruth Brown became household names through their association with Atlantic, significantly contributing to the popularity of rock and roll during this time.
• Discuss the contributions of Ahmet Ertegun to Atlantic Records and how they impacted its success.
  • Ahmet Ertegun's vision and leadership were fundamental to the success of Atlantic Records. As co-founder, he actively sought out unique talents across genres, helping to cultivate a rich roster that included groundbreaking artists like Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding. Ertegun's passion for music and his ability to recognize emerging trends allowed Atlantic to stay ahead of the curve in an evolving industry, establishing it as a leading label during the rise of rock and roll.
• Evaluate the legacy of Atlantic Records in today's music industry while considering its historical context.
  • The legacy of Atlantic Records is evident in today's music industry through its continued influence on diverse genres ranging from hip-hop to pop. By successfully blending various musical styles during its formative years, Atlantic set a precedent for artist development that emphasizes creativity and innovation. This historical context showcases how the label not only shaped rock and roll but also laid the groundwork for future record labels to prioritize artistic expression over strict genre boundaries, reflecting a lasting impact on how music is produced and marketed today.

Related terms

Ahmet Ertegun:

The co-founder of Atlantic Records, Ertegun played a key role in shaping the label's identity and fostering relationships with numerous groundbreaking artists.

Rhythm and Blues (R&B): A genre of popular music that originated in the 1940s, characterized by its strong backbeat and use of jazz, gospel, and blues influences, which Atlantic Records helped popularize.

Rock and Roll: A genre of music that emerged in the late 1940s and gained widespread popularity in the 1950s, blending elements of rhythm and blues, country, and jazz, with Atlantic Records being a significant player in its development.