Questions: W. C. Handy is considered the "father" of ragtime jazz the blues gospel

The answer is: the blues.

W. C. Handy is widely regarded as the "father of the blues." He was an American composer and musician who played a crucial role in popularizing blues music in the early 20th century. Handy's compositions, such as "St. Louis Blues" and "Memphis Blues," were among the first to bring the blues genre to a broader audience, blending traditional African American musical elements with more mainstream styles.

Let's briefly examine why the other options are incorrect:

• Ragtime: This genre is more closely associated with Scott Joplin, who is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Ragtime is characterized by its syncopated or "ragged" rhythm.

• Jazz: While W. C. Handy's work influenced the development of jazz, he is not considered the "father" of jazz. That title is often attributed to figures like Louis Armstrong or Jelly Roll Morton.

• Gospel: Gospel music has its roots in African American spirituals and hymns, and key figures in its development include Thomas A. Dorsey, often called the "father of gospel music."

In summary, W. C. Handy's significant contributions to the blues genre earn him the title of the "father of the blues."