New York. Columbia Press University. 1963. Signed. Hardcover w. typographic and pictorial dust jacket. Book Condition: Fine. Jacket Condition: Good w. tear along top, minor shelf wear.

Courlander, a renowned folklorist and ethnomusicologist, meticulously documents the diverse array of musical forms, including spirituals, work songs, blues, and jazz, that have emerged from the African American experience.

Through extensive field research and archival sources, Courlander delves into the origins, meanings, and social contexts of these musical traditions, shedding light on their profound significance within African American communities and their broader influence on American music as a whole. From the haunting melodies of spirituals born out of the crucible of slavery to the vibrant rhythms of blues and jazz that emerged from the cultural hubs of the early 20th century.

Published during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Courlander's work serves as both a celebration of African American culture and a call to recognize the enduring contributions of black musicians to the American musical canon. Emerging in 1963, as a vital resource for scholars, musicians, and enthusiasts alike, providing invaluable insights into the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite communities across time and space.