- African music: Blues music is rooted in the music of African slaves who were brought to America. African music is characterized by its use of call and response vocals, polyrhythms, and improvisation.
- European music: European music, such as folk songs and spirituals, also influenced blues music. European music brought with it the use of guitars, banjos, and other instruments.
- Ragtime: Ragtime is a type of music that developed in the late 19th century. Ragtime is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and its use of the piano.