As Serious As Your Life: Black Music and the Free Jazz Revolution, 1957-1977

Val Wilmer's As Serious As Your Life remains a cornerstone text for understanding the seismic shift in black music during the 1960s and 70s, a period of profound social and political upheaval that found its powerful echo in sound. Celebrated photographer and respected jazz historian Wilmer doesn't just document the music; she intricately weaves the artistic breakthroughs of revolutionary African-American musicians like Albert Ayler, Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane, and the enigmatic Sun Ra into the very fabric of their time.

She paints a vivid picture of an era brimming with extraordinary innovation and fearless experimentation, where the pursuit of new sonic territories was intrinsically linked to the burgeoning Civil Rights movement and a growing sense of black consciousness. Wilmer masterfully illustrates how these artists, pushing the boundaries of jazz and forging new paths, saw their music as an extension of their lived experiences and a powerful statement within a society undergoing dramatic transformation.

Through insightful analysis and a deep understanding of the cultural landscape, Wilmer reveals how this generation of musicians established black music not merely as entertainment, but as the very cutting edge of American culture. Their explorations in improvisation, tonality, and rhythm weren't just musical exercises; they were sonic manifestos, challenging conventions and demanding to be heard with the gravity their experiences warranted. 

First published in 1977, As Serious As Your Life has lost none of its urgency or relevance. It continues to serve as an essential guide for anyone seeking to understand the complex interplay between music, identity, and social change. Wilmer's work is a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression in the face of adversity and a vital reminder of the profound and lasting impact of this dynamic musical movement on the twentieth century and beyond. It's a book that resonates with the seriousness, the passion, and the sheer artistic brilliance of the musicians it so eloquently champions.