That Year in Music 1914

1914 was a year of incredible musical innovation and creativity, despite the dark shadow of World War I looming over the world. In Britain, music lovers were captivated by the sounds of ragtime and early jazz, while in America, the blues were taking the country by storm.

Some of the standout albums of 1914 included "St. Louis Blues" by W.C. Handy, a groundbreaking record that helped spread the popularity of the blues across the United States. In Britain, music fans were dancing to the sounds of the early jazz band The Original Dixieland Jass Band, whose self-titled album was a sensation.

In terms of notable births, 1914 saw the arrival of two iconic music figures. First up, we have Sun Ra, the legendary jazz composer and bandleader who would go on to influence countless musicians with his innovative approach to music. Also born in 1914 was Leonard Bernstein, the renowned composer and conductor whose work would continue to be celebrated for decades to come.

On the global stage, 1914 was a year of immense upheaval, with the outbreak of World War I casting a long shadow over the music world. Nevertheless, artists continued to create music that brought joy and solace to people in a time of great uncertainty.

As we look back on 1914 from a musical perspective, it's clear that the power of music to transcend even the darkest of times was alive and well. The sounds of jazz, blues, and ragtime provided a much-needed escape for people all over the world, reminding us of the enduring power of music to bring us together and lift our spirits in even the toughest of times.