Singing links Creeks with Scots, African-Americans

A singing style that originated in Scotland has been found among Muscogee Creek churches in Oklahoma.

Jazz musician and Yale University music scholar Willie Ruff has linked on line singing, an a cappella vocal style from 18th century Scotland, to African-American churches in the South. He was surprised when a member of the Muscogee Creek Nation told him of similar singing in Creek churches.

After visiting the churches, Ruff became convinced of the link. He said the Creeks probably picked up the style when they lived in the southeastern U.S. and brought it to Oklahoma during the removal period.

Get the Story:
Indian, Black Gospel and Scottish Singing Form an Unusual Musical Bridge (Religion News Service 4/21)
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