The Blues

Description by OLDIES.com:

The Blues. tells the whole story of the evolution of the blues, tracing its roots in the South, following it to Chicago, New York and the West Coast, and traveling with it to Europe and the rest of the world. The blues has infiltrated practically every style of popular music - from rock to soul and jazz to country, playing a key role in the creation of rock 'n' roll.

At the heart of the book is the A-Z section, with profiles of almost 300 artists from every stage of blues history. Each entry contains concise biographical information, including career high-points and collaborations, and concludes with recommended recordings. The 24 most important figures are covered at length in Blues Legends.

Nine Ages of Blues vividly describes how the music developed from plantation and riverboat to club and concert hall, while the instruments changed from acoustic to electric and the 78 rpm record was succeeded by the LP and the CD.

From previously unavailable tracks now surfacing on CD, to classics of the present, Milestone Recordings highlights 50 of the most important blues albums, discussing their background and significance, the songs and the musicians involved.

Guides to the best in blues festivals, books and magazines and a suggested starter pack of introductory albums complete this comprehensive blues reference work, which is profusely illustrated with rare photographs.

The Blues is essential reading for both the newcomer and the committed fan.