What notable aspect of African music greatly influenced jazz?

The influence of call and response patterns in African music is a significant aspect that shaped the development of jazz. This musical element involves a dynamic interaction where one musician or group of musicians (the "call") is answered by another musician or group (the "response"). This back-and-forth exchange is integral to many African musical traditions and was adopted by jazz musicians, creating a sense of dialogue and spontaneity in performance.

In jazz, call and response can be observed in various contexts, such as the interaction between soloists and the band during improvisation. This practice fosters a communal atmosphere, echoing its roots in African music where communal participation and interaction are vital. By incorporating these patterns, jazz musicians were able to create an engaging and conversational style, which became one of the hallmarks of the genre.

While complex rhythms, extended improvisation, and use of polyrhythms are all important elements that have influenced jazz, the call and response characteristic specifically captures the essence of communication within music that is so critical to both African traditions and jazz.