Genuine Negro Jig cover

Genuine Negro Jig

The Carolina Chocolate Drops · 2010

38 min · 12 tracks · country music

A vibrant fusion of old-time melodies and modern energy that celebrates African American musical traditions.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Peace Behind the Bridge — This track opens the album with a hauntingly beautiful melody, showcasing the group's ability to blend traditional storytelling with rich vocal harmonies.
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    Hit ’em Up Style — A playful reinterpretation of a contemporary R&B hit, this track exemplifies the band's innovative spirit by merging genres while maintaining an old-time feel.
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    Why Don’t You Do Right? — The group's rendition breathes new life into this classic jazz standard, highlighting their versatility and mastery of varied musical styles.
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    Snowden’s Jig (Genuine Negro Jig) — This title track encapsulates the essence of the album with its lively tempo and intricate fiddle work, celebrating the joy of dance and community.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends traditional and modern elements, showcasing strong craftsmanship and unique cultural roots.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, emphasizing the communal aspect of African American musical traditions.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of rhythmic energy
  • playful tunes for social gatherings
  • nostalgic vibes with modern flair
  • quick-paced tracks for lively moments

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer long, introspective albums
  • want heavy production

Where this album fits

Career context
The Carolina Chocolate Drops were gaining significant recognition with their innovative approach to traditional Appalachian music. 'Genuine Negro Jig' was their major label debut, following the success of their earlier album 'Dona Got a Ramblin' Mind,' marking a pivotal moment as they sought to reach a broader audience while staying true to their roots.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Why Don’t You Do Right?

    A pivotal moment occurs when the narrative shifts from longing to empowerment, urging the subject to take responsibility for their actions.

    This transition not only deepens the emotional impact but also showcases a shift from passive lamentation to active demand.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Peace Behind the Bridge 2:34
  • 2 Trouble in Your Mind 2:56
  • 3 Your Baby Ain't Sweet Like Mine 3:00
  • 4 Hit ’em Up Style 3:57
  • 5 Cornbread and Butterbeans 3:10
  • 6 Snowden’s Jig (Genuine Negro Jig) 3:52
  • 7 Why Don’t You Do Right? 3:37
  • 8 Cindy Gal 2:28
  • 9 Kissin’ and Cussin’ 3:21
  • 10 Sandy Boys 2:25
  • 11 Reynadine 2:37
  • 12 Trampled Rose 4:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata