Jubilee Quartets were mainly comprised of men, they tended to be well dressed Black men whose main instrument was their voice. Their ensemble of songs were comprised of a medley of intricate vocal harmonies and acapella. The songs were a mix of songs coming from formerly enslaved African American people and religious hymns.
Jubilee is seen to develop over three eras. Starting off from 1880-1929, known as the jubilee period. Followed by the traditional period which lasted from 1930-1945. Lastly came the gospel period from 1946-1969. Each period is distinctly different in its own way, and yet builds off the history and harmony that came before it. Seen below in chronological order, different jubilee groups over the span of its history. from left to right, the Fisk University Jubilee quartet, Blue Jay jubilee quartet, Golden Gate quartet.
The Jubilee era (1880-1929) was seen to be highly formal and polished, the songs focusing on themes of christianity, spirituality and religion. Sang in a capella and tight four part harmonies with restricted emotional expression. The music was aimed at both Black and white audiences with a goal to raise funds for Black institutions and groups like Fisk University jubilee quartet.
The Traditional era (1930-45) grew to incorporate more rhythmic and emotional singing. Quartets began to mix in elements of the blues, syncopation and call-and-responce. Continuing to sing of religion, themes of the political climate and social issue relevant to African Americans were seen as reflection of the pre-civil rights era. As recording technology became more popular groups such as the Golden Gate Quartet were able to gain broader audiences through radio shows and recorded albums.
The Gospel era (1946-1969) saw the influence of modern times, bringing a soulful and electric sound. Quartets began to use instruments to accompany their vocal harmonies, specifically the piano, drums and electric guitar. Early hintings at the rise of gospel and r&b are heard in the songs of this era. While lyricism still carried a heavy focus on religious aspects, the personal and emotional were brought in with a continued emphasis on promoting social and political change. This era sees a shift in performers, bringing a flare for the dramatics with soloist in front and the rest of the quarter accompanying from behind. Groups like the Soul Stirrer and the Swan Silvertones continued the legacy of jubilee quartets while blending the genre to influence soul, r&b, and even rock and roll.
In each era of jubilee the music was a reflection of the times and what message and image Black artists and people needed highlighted, directly or indirectly.
"The blues is not the creation of a crushed-spirited people. It is the product of a forward-looking, upward-striving people."
