Handy popularized "Memphis Blues" and made it a classic. ... Syncopation was noted as "the anticipatory emission of a note, shifting it from the strong part of one beat to the weak part of the preceding beat" (Hodier 200). For example, the note would be played a third of the beat ahead of time and last until two thirds of the next beat. ... Instead of emphasizing different notes, blues performers would not play some beats. ...

• Word Count: 1458
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography

Handy is the first person to publish a composition with the term "Blues" in the title and utilizing "blue notes, " which are flatted thirds and sevenths. ... Lastly, Bessie Smith defines the term of "classic" Blues singer; earned the title of "Empress of the Blues" with her sassy, bold songs that earned the respect of both Blues and Jazz artists. ...

• Word Count: 2036
• Approx Pages: 8
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School