When America Was Rocked Analysis

The article “When America Was Rocked” tells about how the American culture was changed and shaped throughout the 1940s and 1960s. One of the biggest changes was the amount of young people in America and the music they listened to. Young people at this time were being called reckless or rebellious. However most teenagers found out that they could express themselves better through music. Music at this time was sang only by white people, but a new genre called “race music” was becoming very popular. Race music, or as we know now as rock and roll, was a mix of blues, country and white gospel. Although Race music was very popular, it was hard to find a white person who sang this type of music. Until one day Elvis Presley walked into Sun Records to record two songs. Elvis became an
The culture of the United States was in a transition at this time. Teenagers were being viewed as reckless and the music was considered race music. Parents did not like the message that most rock and roll songs gave, because of the sexuality it portrayed. It is said that Elvis’ records were endorsing a new society and that young teens were the supporters of this.
2. Another type of artist that bridged a cultural gap are the motown legends like: Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder. Every one of these artists made an impact in music and society. Each Motown Legend impacted the black community at a time when blacks were not respected. These legends also showed a very diverse society that it didn’t matter what race you were. During this time young white people were looking up to these legends which was new in the American society.
3. I believe that there are still shows today that shape culture. For Example, a show that has shaped culture would be something like the Ellen Degeneres Show. Ellen gives back to people who need it most, which inspires people to do good. Also Ellen has new and upcoming artist on her show, like the Ed Sullivan show did during the