Call-and-Response: An Ancient Linguistic Device Surfaces in Usher's "Love in This Club"

Abstract

The call-and-response, originating from African tribal rituals, has become part of the foundation of modern African-American culture. This article explores the significance of call-and-response in Usher's "Love in This Club" and relates salient features of the music to the club culture that underlies it. "Club hip-hop" emerges as firmly rooted in the use of call-and-response. The rituals of the club are likewise mirrored in the style of the music, which at times can bear the importance of sacred ceremony.