Southern music refers to a diverse range of musical styles that originated in the southern United States. This includes genres such as blues, country, bluegrass, and gospel. Each genre reflects the cultural heritage and history of the region, often incorporating elements of African American, Native American, and European musical traditions. The blues emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by its expressive lyrics and unique chord progressions. Country music, which gained popularity in the early 20th century, often tells stories of everyday life and struggles. Together, these genres have significantly influenced modern music, shaping the sounds of rock and roll and R&B.