Question

kinds of music, including blues and ragtime. And, like the blues, it had its start in dance halls. Jazz has made an impression on its share of big-name artists, such as the American composer George Gershwin.
Beyond the blues and jazz, the music of Africa also influenced such rock-and-roll performers as Elvis Presley. It paved the way for such pop music artists as Whitney Houston. It also helped inspire performers who ultimately evolved into rap music superstars.
All of these musical genres and iconic performers were affected in some way by music that got its start on the African continent. The tunes we listen to today would be very different without the influence of African music.
Which BEST describes the effect the underlined phrase on page 5 has on the passage overall?
It compares the paths to success taken by American musical artists in different genres.
It emphasizes the connection between pop music and the music of Africa.
It implies that some types of American music are more traceable to their African roots than others.
It indicates which elements of African music have had the most lasting impact on American music.

Answer 1

It emphasizes the connection between pop music and the music of Africa.

Reason: the phrase ("paved the way") shows that African music helped make pop artists like Whitney Houston possible. It does not compare artists' paths (A), claim some genres are more traceable (C), or specify particular musical elements (D).