The Blues

When thinking of American Music, jazz and the Blues stand out as truly American creations. In this, African American history month, we here at CLP LBPH offer a few books on the subject of the Blues for your enjoyment. From a personal journey in the words of Blues guitar legend Buddy Guy, to a social and historic discussion of the subject by prominent poet Leroi Jones (aka Amiri Baraka), to the reflections of noted ethnomusicologist Alan Lomax, these reads can kindle your relationship with a truly amazing, truly American art form. Happy African American History Month!

When I Left Home
Buddy Guy
DB 75698
Legendary blues guitarist Buddy Guy (born 1936) reminisces about growing up as the son of Louisiana sharecroppers, moving to Chicago in 1957 and playing in nightclubs, and working with Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Junior Wells, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones. Strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2012.

Blues People: Negro Music in White America

Leroi Jones
DB 21323
A reinterpretation of jazz and blues in light of black American social and economic history. Many anecdotes add to the liveliness of Jones’ account, which is flavored by his personal brand of warmth and wit.

The Land Where the Blues Began
Alan Lomax
DB 38149
When the author, a southern white ethnomusicologist, began to record the sounds of poor African-American people living in the Mississippi Delta in the 1930s, segregation created a barrier that had the effect of keeping black music intact. Lomax’s recollections, interspersed with the voices of the people who shared stories and songs with him, create a first-hand account of the blues in its natural habitat. Some strong language. 1993.

-Eric