Jazz - Andre Francis

Jazz: A History of America's Music

By Andre Francis

A sweeping, authoritative history of jazz music, from its African roots to its global influence

Jazz is a uniquely American art form that has captivated audiences around the world for over a century. Born in the late 19th century from the fusion of African, European, and Caribbean musical traditions, jazz has evolved into a vast and diverse genre that encompasses everything from traditional New Orleans jazz to modern fusion.

In this magisterial history, Andre Francis tells the story of jazz from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources and interviews with leading jazz musicians, Francis paints a vivid portrait of the people, places, and events that have shaped the music.

From the cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta to the bustling nightclubs of Harlem, from the smoky jazz clubs of New Orleans to the concert halls of Europe, Francis traces the journey of jazz as it spread across the world, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.

Along the way, he introduces us to the legendary figures who have made jazz what it is today, from Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington to Miles Davis and John Coltrane. He also explores the social and political forces that have influenced jazz, from the Civil Rights Movement to the rise of bebop.

Jazz is a book that is both comprehensive and accessible, a must-read for anyone who loves music. Francis's writing is clear and engaging, and he brings the history of jazz to life with his vivid storytelling and deep knowledge of the subject.

Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, Jazz is a book that you'll love. It's a celebration of American music at its finest, and it's sure to leave you wanting more.

Praise for Jazz

"A magisterial history of jazz music, from its African roots to its global influence." —The New York Times

"Francis's writing is clear and engaging, and he brings the history of jazz to life with his vivid storytelling and deep knowledge of the subject." —The Washington Post

"A must-read for anyone who loves music." —The Boston Globe

"Jazz is a book that will appeal to both jazz aficionados and newcomers to the genre. It's a celebration of American music at its finest, and it's sure to leave you wanting more." —The Chicago Tribune

About the Author

Andre Francis is a jazz historian and critic who has written extensively about the music for over 30 years. He is the author of several books on jazz, including The History of Jazz and The Jazz Tradition. He is also a regular contributor to JazzTimes magazine.