Date
11-13-2024
Department
School of Behavioral Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)
Chair
Richard Green
Keywords
Cultural Impact, Black Music, American Culture, Social Movements, Historical Interpretive Research, Qualitative Study, Critical Race Theory, Cultural Theory
Disciplines
Education | Psychology
Recommended Citation
Mardis, Jamie C., "Unveiling the Black Mavericks: Black Musical Pioneers and their Enduring Cultural Impact" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 6202.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/6202
Abstract
This study explores the profound cultural impact of Black musical innovators, examining their contributions across various musical genres and their enduring influence on American culture. The purpose of this qualitative historical interpretive study is to understand the cultural impact of Black musical innovators on broader American society. This research involves Black musical pioneers from diverse genres and historical periods in the United States. Guided by Cultural Theory, as articulated by scholars like Stuart Hall and Jean Piaget, the study investigates how cultural identities are produced through representation and social interaction. Piaget’s concepts of cognitive development help understand how Black musical innovators construct and adapt cultural elements, creating new musical forms through environmental interactions. Additionally, Critical Race Theory (CRT) is employed to examine the systemic nature of racism and how Black musical pioneers have used their platforms to challenge racial inequalities. CRT provides a framework to explore how these musicians navigate their identities within a racially stratified society, using their music as resistance and a tool for social justice. Data collection methods include interviews, surveys, and the analysis of historical documents, artifacts, and music recordings. Thematic analysis, content analysis, and critical discourse analysis identify patterns and themes addressing the research questions. This study highlights the resilience and creativity of Black musical pioneers, uncovering their role in shaping cultural identities and influencing social movements. It calls for further research to understand the profound significance of Black music within the cultural and psychological landscape of the United States.
