Book excerpt: Skillfully written in an easily understandable style, this comprehensive study of Black music examines a constantly changing art form and its continued influence on today's American music. The Black musician in American society from slavery to present is studied against the background of the social, political, economic, and religious influences on each period. Each Black music genre is discussed separately, allowing flexability of use. In addition, selected Black composers and a representative composition of each are discussed and analyzed. Numerous photographs and musical excerpts help the reader identify with individual artists and their recordings.