Jazz & Blues Encyclopedia: New & Expanded Edition

The Definitive Jazz & Blues Encyclopedia, now fully updated from its illustrated edition, stands as the ultimate guide to two musical styles that have fundamentally influenced popular music. Divided into chapters, each covering a distinct era, the book meticulously traces the evolution of jazz and blues from their nineteenth-century African-American origins right through to the present day.

Each chapter commences with a 'Sounds & Sources' section, examining the key developments in the music during that particular period. This is then followed by an A-Z of artists from that era, with more extensive entries dedicated to key figures that include recommended classic recordings. With further sections on 'Styles' – covering everything from Ragtime to Bebop and Texas Blues to Rhythm & Blues, and more – and 'Instruments', all expertly written by a team of specialists, this invaluable encyclopedia proves to be comprehensive, user-friendly, and exceptionally informative.