I got this book from the library (since then I’ve ordered my own copy) and I’m a little ashamed to say I expected the worse. But this book turned into a real page turner for me. Ok, I was stuck on an airplane but none the less, I read it cover to cover in one sitting. My one criticism of this book is it has not been updated since its 1998 publishing date which puts its contemporary blues section over 10 years out of date.
Lonnie Brooks, Cub Koda (of Smokin’ in the Boys Room fame) and Wayne Brooks really did a great job writing this book. The book is divided into multiple sections as follows:
What Are the Blues
A brief overview of blues styles and relationships to other music.
Who’s Who in the Blues
This section is most of the book and has impressive coverage of early blues legends (1900 to 1945), artist from the blues heyday (1946 to 1969?) and the contemporary blues artists (1970 to 1998). Remember this book was published in 1998 so this contemporary blues section is over 10 years out of date.
Listening to the Blues
This section lists essential records that blues lovers should consider adding to their collections
Playing the Blues
This section was not what I expected. I thought it may contain a little music theory and perhaps a tip or two for the key instruments. Instead its about putting together a blues band and given the experience of the authors I don’t doubt its accuracy and value for that purpose.
The Blues Community
A short and dated list of blues communities, blues events and finding blues online.
Parts of Ten
A short section containing miscellaneous sentries of blues awards, programs, publications and rare collectible blues recordings.
So what can I say, I enjoyed the stories and I enjoyed the lists of recommendations and comments sprinkled throughout the book. I’d have to say its a valuable resource – not an encyclopedia but a nice read all in all. you can have a look inside Blues for Dummies on Amazon.com
. Oh, I almost forgot to mention that this book also contains a CD of essential blues listening that alone is worth the cover price.