Special Events

High school dances at the Monroe School auditorium were held regularly. (Image from the 1940s.)

From Race Records to Rock and Roll

February 23, 2013
7 p.m.
Free

Music has the ability to unify society but it can also serve as a catalyst for youthful rebellion against traditional social norms. In its infancy, rock and roll reflected a unique harmony of various African American music genres that caught the attention of young adults to put on their dance shoes and twist the night away to the new sound. 

The music industry labeled all African American music as race records. Therefore, early rock and roll was considered race music. However, the new sound transcended racial barriers as young adults from every ethnic group flocked to dance halls wanting to hear rock and roll. 

The success of rock and roll as an instrument for integrating young adults and its label as race music created a negative backlash from segregationist grasping to the idea of cultural traditions that separated whites and blacks in every aspect of society. Various groups organized boycotts of music stores or radio stations that played rock and roll. Despite their efforts, rock and roll survived.  

Join Brown v. Board of Education NHS for a 1950s era sock hop event on Feb. 23 from 7-9 pm. Learn how to do the locomotion, the twist and other popular dances from the 1950s and dance to live music. 1950s era dress is encouraged. Refreshments are available. 

An education program for schools will be hosted on Feb. 22 from 11 am - 1 pm at Brown v. Board of Education NHS. Schools can contact Ranger Joan Wilson at [phone] if they are interested in attending the educational event.