Blues
Subtitle: the basics
By: Dick Weissman
Publisher: Routledge
Published: 2005
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 206
Subjects: Blues (Music) -- History and criticism
Description: Blues: The Basics gives a brief introduction to a century of the blues; it is ideal for students and interested listeners who want to learn more about this treasured American artform. The book is organized chronologically, focusing on the major eras in blues's growth and development. It opens with a chapter defining the blues form and detailing the major genres within it. Next, the author gives the beginning blues fan points on how to listen to and truly enjoy the music. The heart of the book traces blues's growth from its folk origins through early recordings of city blues singers like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith and country blues stars like Robert Johnson and Blind Lemon Jefferson. Finally, the author gives an overview of the blues scene today. The book concludes with lists of key recordings, books, and videos. Blues: The Basics serves as an excellent introduction to the players, the music, and the styles that make blues an enduring and well-loved musical style.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 157-189) and index
Table of contents: title: The roots of the blues : 1619-1919; title: The 1920s : documented beginnings of the classic and rural blues; title: The folk blues : 1920-1940; title: Rhythm and blues and the beginning of electic blues, 1940-1960; title: The blues revival : 1960-80; title: The new generation of blues artists, 1980-today