African American music changed drastically during the film Dreamgirls. The film portrayed how African American music was centered on the feelings and emotions of the artist, with references to religion as well. R&B star Jimmy "Thunder" Early mentions early in the film that if is a part of a song, then the song must have some “soul.” This was a belief of African American artists at the time, which is the reason why the artists were only deemed successful within the African American community. Also, sex appeal was not deemed as necessary for the success of music in the African American community because music was viewed as a form of expression, not just a product to make music.
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Taylor then decided to start his own label, Rainbow Records, in order to ensure his music would not be stolen again and so he is able to call the shots.
Curtis decided to book the crew to sing in Miami Beach in front of a white audience in order for expansion. The show was successful, but Curtis decided to split Jimmy and the “The Dreamettes”. Jimmy was now going to go on tour as he always wanted and “The Dreamettes” were going to stay in Miami and perform. Curtis also made Deena head of the group rather than Effie because of Deena’s physical appearance. The group also changed the name from “The Dreamettes” to “The Dream.” With Deena as the lead the group became very successful because she was viewed more than an artist, but a product as well. Curtis realized that not only does the music sell, but sex appeal promoted the sell of the music.
Jimmy comes to Curtis with a song name “Patience” that mentions waiting on the war to end because good will eventually come. Curtis does not like the song because the song is sending a message. Curtis mentions that music is made to sell, which shows the reason Curtis is in the industry is for the money. Jimmy makes...
