The Story of the Blues in 50 Songs

Highlights 50 milestone blues recordings and brings a new focus to the history of the blues, through key songs, singers, and the musicians who made it possible.

The Story of the Blues in 50 Songs traces the evolution of the blues and its influence on modern music.

Highlighting 50 key recordings, the book explores the genre’s roots in Black American culture and its impact on rock, soul, jazz, and hip-hop.

Entries discuss pioneering artists like Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, and Muddy Waters, along with later icons such as Eric Clapton and Janis Joplin.

Firsthand accounts from musicians and producers offer insight into the creative process, while “Voice Box” features provide additional commentary on key figures and labels.

Illustrated with vintage photos and memorabilia, this engaging volume is perfect for both seasoned blues enthusiasts and newcomers alike.[AuthorName]By Mike Evans and Evans and Photographs by Shelley Ritter[/AuthorName][AuthorBio]A musician in 1960s rock, soul, and blues bands, Mike Evans began writing about popular music in the 1970s, when he was a regular contributor to Melody Maker. He is also the author of the highly successfulThe Blues: A Visual History.Mike lives in Hastings, England.
Shelley Ritter is the executive director of the DeltaBlues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Under herdirection, the museum has been recognized nationally atthe White House with a National Medal for Museum andLibrary Services and a National Arts & Humanities YouthProgram Award and internationally with an induction toThe Excellence Club, Europa Nostra. She has over thirtyyears of experience in museums and has worked in grantadministration and historic preservation.[/AuthorBio][NumIllustration]250 color and b/w photos[/NumIllustration][CoAuthor][/CoAuthor][SubTitle][/SubTitle][ColorPattern]250 color and b/w photos[/ColorPattern]