The soundtrack of slavery, the rhythms and sounds of the camps, enriched American culture and helped shape the American identity. The cross-fertilization between Africa and America that occurred through the slave trade had an impact on many areas of American culture, but above all on the development of new musical genres including jazz, gospel and, above all, blues. The blues, which was born deep in the region known as the Mississippi Delta, helped shape the American identity by providing a distinct sound incorporated into many musical genres and providing a voice to those who previously had none. Music helps define culture, and America is no exception. Used to express the thoughts and feelings of the masses and sometimes to influence them, music leaves a lasting impact on everything it touches. Musical genres evolve with the growth, creation and synthesis of various subcultures. For example, the musical form known as “the blues” pervades American music, helping to frame jazz, rhythm and blues, rock, hip-hop, gospel, pop, and other American musical genres. The blues permeates the soundtrack of movies, TV, and more (Thompson & Haquard, 126-139). It is no exaggeration to say that the blues is a fundamental element of American identity, its influence showing no signs of abating. As director Martin Scorsese wrote, “The blues has great emotional resonance and forms the foundation of American popular music.” (Springer, “Martin Scorsese Presents the Blues: A Film Tribute to America's Great Musical Tradition.”) Where musical subgenres evolved is closely related to the key characteristics of the music played. The blues originated in oppressive and destructive experiences of African Americans in the post-emancipation period... middle of paper... NGOs are playing a strong and vital role in our struggle. I believe it gives people new courage and a sense of unity to keep alive a faith, a radiant hope, in the future, particularly in our most difficult hours. “It is difficult to imagine American culture without the influence of the blues, hundreds of movie soundtracks and countless performances of all types were enriched by the music of poor black farmers struggling to survive in the Mississippi Delta. This unique cultural legacy, birthed in the poorest and most segregated corner of America, has shaped the world's perception of our country. Hear the tragedy of poverty, the work songs of slaves, the rhythms of Mississippi, and the fight for survivals that shaped Delta culture – and which in turn helped shape the identity we know as American.¬¬