The form, harmony, and instrumentation of the Blues was heavily influenced by European/Western music. The instruments used, such as washboards, jugs, and kazoos were reinterpretations of traditional African instruments. Blues were often compared to griots, with similarities in singing style, instruments, and social commentary in the music.
Of all the new genres emerging at that time, the Blues were the most self-contained, with performances being mostly solos. It was described as individualistic, introspective, self-absorbed, and serious.