The Best Soul Music Books to Read
Looking for a great book about soul music? Check out our list of the best ones to read!
Best Soul Music Books
There are many great soul music books available to read. We have compiled a list of some of the best soul music books. These books provide insights into the history and origins of soul music. They also explore the different subgenres of soul music and provide a look into the future of the genre.
‘The Soul of a Man: A Journey Through the American South’ by Richard Williams
The Soul of a Man is a journey through the American South, exploring the various influences that have shaped the music of the region. Richard Williams traces the history of soul music from its roots in gospel and blues, to its explosion in popularity in the 1960s and 70s. He delves into the stories of some of the genre’s most beloved artists, including James Brown, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke. The Soul of a Man is an essential read for any fan of soul music.
‘The Fire This Time: A New Generation Speaks About Race’ by Jesmyn Ward
This searing and beautifully written collection of essays and poems about race in America, edited by National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward, confirms Toni Morrison’s observation that “this is surely the time for words.” In light of recent events, readers will find this powerful anthology both timely and essential. Collection includes pieces by Kiese Laymon, Claudia Rankine, Kevin Young, Brittney C. Cooper, Franny Choi, Julie Doughty, Mitchell S. Jackson, Dinaw Mengestu, Natasha Trethewey, Wendy S. Walters, Tommy Orange, and Jesmyn Ward herself.
‘We’re Going to Need More Wine: Stories That Are Funny, Complicated, and True’ by Gabrielle Union
Looking for a good book to read that will make you laugh, cry, and think? Look no further than Gabrielle Union’s “We’re Going to Need More Wine.” In this collection of essays, Union tackles everything from motherhood to Hollywood to her experience as a black woman in America. She is vulnerable, funny, and most importantly, honest – giving readers a glimpse into her life that is both relatable and inspiring.
Why You Should Read These Books
These books will take you on a journey through the history of soul music and its impact on society. They are written by some of the most knowledgeable and respected authors in the industry. If you are a fan of soul music, or looking to learn more about the genre, these are the books for you.
To learn about the history and origins of soul music
Soul music is a genre that has its origins in African American culture. It is a combination of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz. Soul music became popular in the 1950s and 1960s with artists such as James Brown, Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye.
If you are interested in learning about the history and origins of soul music, there are a few books that you should consider reading. These books will give you a better understanding of the genre and its place in American culture.
“The Soul of Black Folks” by W.E.B. Du Bois is one of the most important books about African American culture and history. This book was published in 1903 and it is still relevant today. Du Bois was a sociologist and he used his experiences as a black man in America to write this book. “The Soul of Black Folks” is an important book for anyone who wants to learn about the origins of soul music.
“African Rhythms: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones” is another great book about the history of soul music. Quincy Jones is one of the most successful musicians of all time. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, and Frank Sinatra. In this book, Jones tells his story from growing up in Chicago to becoming one of the most successful producers in the world. If you want to learn about the history of soul music from someone who was there during its birth, then this is the book for you.
“Icons Of R&B And Soul: An Encyclopedia Of The Artists Who Transformation American Popular Music” by Mike Farris is another great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the history of soul music. This book features over 100 different artists who have made an impact on the genre. Each artist has their own chapter that discusses their career and contributions to soul music. If you want to learn about all of the different artists who have shaped this genre, then this is the book for you.”
To gain a better understanding of the genre
If you want to gain a better understanding of the genre, its history, and the people who made it what it is today, these are the books you need to read. From biographies to histories, these books will give you a deep dive into soul music and the artists who created it.
To appreciate the talent and contributions of African American artists
In order to appreciate the talent and contributions of African American artists,you should read these books.
“The History of Soul Music” by Craig Werner is a comprehensive guide to the genre, tracing its roots back to the blues and gospel music of the early twentieth century. Werner also explores how soul music has been shaped by the civil rights movement and the experiences of African Americans in America.
“The Soulful Sound of Blackness” by Jackie Higgins is a collection of essays, interviews, and memoirs that explore the history and influence of black music on American culture. Higgins includes contributions from some of the most influential names in soul music, including Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder.
“I Dream a World: Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America” by Brian Lanker is a collection of photographs and stories about African American women who have made significant contributions to their communities and to the world. Lanker captures the strength and spirit of these remarkable women, including Maya Angelou, Alice Walker, Oprah Winfrey, and Condoleezza Rice.
