You may not think of music as too influential on human society, but you should never underestimate the power of music. Over centuries of influential genres, jazz is just one music variety that has helped shape and express African American cultures and communities. This music genre is a diverse style of music often described as having stressed rhythms, complicated harmonies, and a prime focus on improvisation. Jazz origins go back to the late 19th century when African American musicians in New Orleans generated this unique style. Its parent genres include folk music, blues, and ragtime. Over the years, this genre has helped celebrate African American communities and culture.