Review: Category: Music/History Books The music genre of rhythm and blues has a rich history that spans several decades. To learn more about this fascinating genre, one can turn to various books on the subject. In this review, we will take a closer look at six such books and provide our thoughts on each. 1. The Way I Heard It, Volume 1: History of Rhythm & Blues : The Roots 1947-52 by Bob Dylan This book is a collection of interviews with musicians who were instrumental in the development of rhythm and blues. Dylan conducts these interviews and provides his own insights into the genre's history. This book is a great introduction to the roots of rhythm and blues, as it covers the period from 1947-52 when the genre was first starting to take shape. The book also includes some interesting anecdotes about the musicians interviewed, making for an engaging read. 2. Rhythm & Blues History / Various by Various Artists This is a compilation of various songs and artists that have contributed to the development of rhythm and blues. It covers a wide range of styles and sub-genres within the genre, including rock 'n' roll, soul, and gospel music. This book is a great way to get an overview of the many different sounds and influences that make up rhythm and blues. The songs included are also well-chosen and provide a good representation of the genre's history. 3. The Death of Rhythm and Blues by Greil Marcus This book takes a more critical approach to the history of rhythm and blues, examining how the genre has evolved over time and how it has been influenced by other musical styles. Marcus also explores the ways in which rhythm and blues has been used as a form of political expression. This book is well-written and provides some interesting insights into the genre's history. However, it may not be suitable for those who are looking for a more straightforward overview of the genre. 4. History of Rhythm & Blues: Pre-War 1925-42 by Ted Gioia This book covers the early years of rhythm and blues, from its origins in the Deep South to its spread throughout the United States. It includes biographies of key figures in the genre, such as Robert Johnson and Bessie Smith, as well as an analysis of the music itself. This book is a great way to learn about the roots of rhythm and blues and how it evolved during the pre-war period. The writing is engaging and the book provides a good overview of the genre's history. 5. History of Rhythm & Blues Rocknroll 3 by Various Artists This compilation of songs covers the rock 'n' roll era of rhythm and blues, from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. It includes a wide range of artists, such as Chuck Berry and Little Richard, who were instrumental in shaping the genre during this period. This book is a great way to get an overview of the rock 'n' roll era of rhythm and blues and how it influenced other musical styles. The songs included are also well-chosen and provide a good representation of the genre's history. 6. History of Rhythm & Blues 1957-62 by Various Artists This compilation of songs covers the period from 1957 to 1962, when rhythm and blues was at its peak popularity. It includes a wide range of artists, such as James Brown and Otis Redding, who were instrumental in shaping the genre during this period. This book is a great way to get an overview of the genre's history during the 1950s and early 1960s and how it influenced other musical styles. The songs included are also well-chosen and provide a good representation of the genre's history. In conclusion, these six books on rhythm and blues provide a great way to learn about the genre's history and how it has evolved over time. Each book offers its own unique perspective on the subject matter and provides some interesting insights into the music and the musicians who have contributed to the development of this fascinating genre.