Around what year did the nominal stage begin, marked by DJs using the term rock 'n' roll to describe what was really black R&B?

• A. 1940
• B. 1950
• C. 1960
• D. 1970

Answer: (B)

The test is about how labeling shifted to market a style of music. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, DJs and record labels began using the term rock and roll to describe the black rhythm and blues sound, aiming this label at white teenage listeners and moving away from earlier tags like race music. This labeling change marks the start of the nominal stage, as the genre name starts to take hold in public perception and marketing. That shift took hold around 1950, with the term gaining traction on radio and in promotion, even though the big breakout hits would come a few years later. So the best fit is around 1950.