Throughout history, a number of different musical genres have come and gone. Currently, one of the most overlooked when it comes to purchasing or downloading artists is that of Blues music. While this is the case, the genre is still alive and well when it comes to performing live at a number of historic and neighborhood venues.

Unlike other genres, the history of the blues is lesser known. In addition, the blues due to the emotional lyrics and dive bars at which many play, often draw a much older crowd. Like the genre itself, it appears it will take some time for music lovers to catch up to these musical offerings of what are some of the greatest musicians in the world.

The beginning of the genre included music with styles which closely resemble that of modern blues. As such, it is believed that the musical styles of today originated at the time the first songs came onto the music scene. For, it is strongly believed that the genre originated by black workers whom created and sang songs with technical themes and emotional lyrics based on real and fictional experiences.

As with other genres, there are a number of subsets within the genre. For example, there are acoustic, electric and R&B. One reason this is the case, is that each individual artist often adds elements of individuality whether playing solo or in a band, When it comes to acoustic styles, the sound is most likely as close as one can get to hearing what the genre was like in the beginning.

The genre having been born out of the slave trade much like many hymnals is often considered the beginning of the genre. For, many of the songs were created by slave hands and have been handed down through generations. While some remained closer to an acoustic style, others evolved into modern day styles which now grace many dive bars and festivals around the world.

An original string instrument during that time was the Akonting, while similar to the banjo, the predecessor dates back to a period long before the genre became better known. While banjos have somewhat moved over to the bluegrass genre, slide and pedal guitars are now somewhat front and center when it comes to the blues. Still, having been born out of a style once known as Field and Hollar, the genre has gone through several changes since being recognized in the early 1900s.

Whether due to style or history, there are a number of societies which promote and support musicians of the genre around the world. Most often, the funds from various events go to support musicians with healing, healthcare, housing and beyond. In order to raise these funds, non-profits often host contests, conventions and other events throughout the year.

In many cases, there are local societies which host contests, then send the winning musician or musicians on to the semi-finals or finals. When it comes to the finals, there is often a large award ceremony. In fact, one of the biggest are the American Blues Awards held in Memphis on an annual basis. During this event, there is a banquet, silent auction and banquet along with contest winners and other artists providing entertainment.