Ellas Otha Bates, better known as Bo Diddley, was an iconic American musician, guitarist, and songwriter who left a huge impact on the music industry. Born on December 30th, 1928, he became one of the founding fathers of Rock ‘n’ Roll due to his unique playing style and innovative techniques. Teaching students about Bo Diddley not only exposes them to a rich musical history but also helps them understand the roots of many contemporary music genres.

Early Life and Influence

Bo Diddley grew up in McComb, Mississippi and later migrated to Chicago with his family. It was there that he learned how to play the violin and took an interest in the guitar. His exposure to gospel music in church, blues from local musicians, and an overall love for creating sound culminated into his distinctive style: a fusion of blues, R&B, and African rhythms.

The Bo Diddley Beat

One of the most important aspects of teaching students about Bo Diddley is introducing them to his signature beat. The “Bo Diddley beat” – a syncopated rhythm played with a maracas part – has been used by countless artists across various genres such as Buddy Holly, The Rolling Stones, U2, and George Michael. Students can learn about the origins of this beat and its influence on modern music.

Teaching Techniques

1. Listening Activities: Have your students listen to various Bo Diddley songs like “Hey! Bo Diddley,” “Who Do You Love,” “Mona,” and others. Engage them in discussions about what they hear – the distinctive rhythms, use of instrumentation, and musical style.

2. Biographical Study: Encourage students to research Bo’s life story from his early childhood until his passing in 2008. This includes major accomplishments, musical influences, and significant events that shaped his career.

3. Comparing and Contrasting Activity: Play different songs from artists who have used the Bo Diddley beat – both older and more contemporary musicians. Have your students compare and contrast the renditions, discussing how Bo’s style has impacted and evolved through the generations.

4. Music Projects: Divide your students into groups and listen to multiple Bo Diddley tracks together. Then, ask them to create their own compositions or rhythms using the Bo Diddley beat as a foundation.

5. Cultural Impact: Introduce discussions about Bo Diddley’s influence on fashion, dance styles, and how he shaped an entire movement in the music industry. This will help students appreciate the broader impact of his work on popular culture.

6. Music History: Place Bo Diddley in the context of other important musicians who were pioneers in their genres like Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and Fats Domino. Discuss the contributions of these musicians in shaping modern music

Conclusion

Teaching students about Bo Diddley presents an opportunity to explore a critical part of music history and better understand how different musical styles emerged over time. It encourages discussions on creativity, influential trends, cultural change, and most importantly, learning about a remarkable musician who had a lasting impact on future generations of artists.