Broadcasting the Blues

"For the past half-century Paul Oliver, more than any other writer, has established and defined the topics for discussion in the blues field. Broadcasting the Blues collects radio scripts that he has written over this period, reflecting his broad interests in the blues: its historical and stylistic development, its relationship to African-American culture and history, its lyric themes, its sources in African music and older American folk and popular music, its status as performing art and literary expression, and the history of blues research itself. In a very readable form it summarizes the subjects covered in Oliver's many books on the blues, presenting his vast knowledge and insight to a new generation of readers." -- David Evans, The University of Memphis

"As a founding father of blues literature, Paul Oliver has introduced my generation and beyond to the complex social history behind our treasured record collections. Now his BBC radio scripts (with annotations of records played) have been retrieved from the airwaves to add to Paul's valuable blues bibliography - for the further education of us all." -- John Broven, Author of 'Rhythm & Blues in New Orleans' and 'South to Louisiana: The Music of the Cajun Bayous'

"Paul Oliver is one of the world's foremost experts on the Blues idiom, and this text serves as an impeccable summary of the most influential and wide-reaching of all music movements." -- Electric Review

"With its unusual insights into the world of blues broadcasting and history alike, Oliver's perspective provides a unique survey indeed." --The Midwest Book Review