Before the Hype: Black Clevelanders and the Birth of Rock and Roll

By Tyisha Blade

Clevelanders were instrumental in the birth and evolution of rock-n-roll, contributing both musically and through media influence. Cleveland's own music scene thrived in neighborhoods where Black musicians infused their cultural narratives into music that resonated across racial lines. These artists not only shaped the sound of rock-n-roll but also challenged societal norms, pushing for greater representation and integration within the music industry. Artists such as Jalacy J. “Screamin’ Jay” Hawakins helped pave the way in the industry. The Cleveland native’s most successful recording, “I Put a Spell on You” (1956), was selected as one of The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, also known as the Rock Hall, found its home in Cleveland due to the city's rich musical heritage and its pivotal role in rock-n-roll history. According to clevelandhistorical.org, in May 1986, Cleveland was chosen as the location from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation following a nationwide competition and the successful fundraising from city and state governments, as well as local foundations. The 4-acre iconic building located at North Coast Harbor, was designed by architect I. M. Pei, and Cleveland native Robert P. Madison served as associate architect. Madison built a lasting legacy through his firm, Robert P. Madison International, based in downtown Cleveland. Throughout his groundbreaking career, he achieved numerous historic firsts, and today, the Shaker Heights resident holds the distinction of being the oldest living Black architect in the United States.

The Rock Hall, with its striking glass pyramid, has become a symbol of the genre's enduring legacy and Cleveland's place at its heart. The facility includes exhibition galleries, a DJ booth, offices, a museum shop, interactive displays, a café and store, an outdoor terrace, and a public plaza. In Sept. 1995, over 10,000 people gathered to witness VIPs dedicate the building. Former Cleveland Mayor Michael R. White and former Ohio Gov. George Voinovich led the local delegation. The Rock Hall hosts a variety of events and exhibits throughout the year, providing visitors with unique and engaging experiences. Some events include Black Music Now, Mx. Juneteenth, and Celebrating Black History Month,

Black Cleveland radio stations and DJs also played a key role in popularizing rock-n-roll by amplifying Black artists’ voices. WJMO, which began broadcasting in 1947, adopted a Black-oriented format in the 1950s after being sold to United Broadcasting. In 1958, it acquired WSRS/1490, expanding its reach. By 1970, protests over the lack of Black leadership led to Ken Hawkins becoming the first African American general manager of a Cleveland radio station. In 1990, United Broadcasting continued its growth by acquiring WRQC-FM/92.3, later rebranding it as WJMO-FM, further solidifying its influence in Black music broadcasting. Although Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed is often credited with popularizing the term “rock and roll,” the genre itself emerged in the 1950s as a fusion of Black rhythm and blues, jazz, gospel, country, and western swing. Freed’s efforts culminated in the 1952 Moondog Coronation Ball held at the now-closed Cleveland Arena. The event is widely regarded as the first major rock-n-roll concert—which celebrated Black musical  talent and underscored the genre’s rising popularity across diverse audiences.

In August 2025, the Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists (GCLEABJ) will host a Welcome to Cleveland Party at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum for the National Association of Black Journalists Convention and Career Fair. The party is Aug. 6 and kicks off at 9:30 p.m. This event offers attendees exclusive access to the museum, allowing them to explore exhibits and celebrate Cleveland's vibrant culture. The party will feature late-night snacks, a cash bar, and entertainment, providing a unique opportunity to experience the Rock Hall in a festive atmosphere. This party is part of the convention's larger celebration of NABJ's 50th anniversary and will provide a special networking opportunity for attendees. Purchase tickets to the Welcome to Cleveland Party here. Photos provided by cleveland.com