The guitar has long been a symbol of rebellion. If we look at the history of the times that this country has beaten down and neglected certain individuals or systems of opposition have existed, music has coincided. The two seem to exist with each other. Humans will find a way to lift their spirits and provide some hope in a time of need.

For example, slaves would often sing field songs throughout their work. The call and response nature would serve as the basis for the most important innovation in music history. The birth of the blues. Blues music became the anthem of the downtrodden in this country. Born of the most horrendous event in our nation’s history comes music that would change the world. One of the earliest champions of the blues is Robert Johnson, pictured above. Johnson would become known as the man who sold his soul to the devil, a rumor that started after one day being able to play guitar like no one has before. His songs included themes of hard times and troubles.

 

Another type of music would develop years later. American folk music would become another key element in telling the story of the weak members of this country. Woody Guthrie famously wrote “THIS MACHINE KILLS FACISTS” on the body of his guitar, a statement of his opposition to the powers that controlled the world.