The Enduring Legacy of George Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue'

On a bitter cold day, February 12, 1924, Manhattan's Aeolian Hall buzzed with excitement for an event titled 'An Experiment in Modern Music.' Spearheaded by bandleader Paul Whiteman, the aim was to blend jazz with classical music, an ambitious and culturally significant endeavor. This led to the commissioning of 'Rhapsody in Blue' by a young George Gershwin, who was then only 25 and brimming with potential.

Inception of a Masterpiece

'Rhapsody in Blue' not only turned heads at its debut but also traversed into the realms of film, sports, and even airline branding. Its composer, Gershwin, had the challenging task of composing this iconic piece under time pressure, drawing inspiration from both the Broadway stage and the emergent jazz sounds filtering in from New Orleans. The influence of Harlem's jazz scene, particularly from pianists like James P. Johnson and Willie 'The Lion' Smith, was instrumental in shaping Gershwin's composition.

Success and Scrutiny

Gershwin's 'Rhapsody', despite being rapidly assembled, achieved monumental success in record and sheet music sales. However, with success came criticism. The idea that Gershwin may have appropriated Black music added a layer of controversy to the work's history. This concern was not just a modern reflection but was voiced subtly through artistic responses by Black musicians of the time, who felt that their cultural contributions were being overlooked.

Musical Rebuttal

Bessie Smith's film 'St. Louis Blues' and James P. Johnson's 'Yamekraw' subtly critiqued 'Rhapsody in Blue' by portraying how Gershwin's success had parallels to cultural theft—a sensitive implication considering the racial dynamics.

A Musical Kaleidoscope of America?

Gershwin described his creation as a 'musical kaleidoscope of America,' reflecting the nation's melting pot. However, this metaphor also evokes the issue of assimilation and the ways 'white' America consumed and transformed the cultural outputs of minorities, particularly in the case of jazz. 'Rhapsody in Blue' now sits in an uneasy middle between 'lowbrow' and 'highbrow', extracting from black culture while seeking acceptance from white audiences.

Reflections on Legacy

A century later, perspectives and values have evolved, and with them, the interpretations of 'Rhapsody in Blue.' As a cornerstone in American music, it continues to ignite discussions on its origin, impact, and meaning amidst the changing cultural landscape.

jazz, classical, meltingpot