Music Is History combines Questlove's deep musical expertise with his curiosity about history, examining America over the past fifty years.

Discusses the evolution of African-American music from its roots in the rhythms and instruments from Africa through the development of the blues, gospel, and soul to modern rock and rap.

Examines the diversity of Black American music.

Since their enslavement in West Africa and transport to plantations of the New World, black people have made music that has been deeply entwined with their religious, community, and individual identities. Music was one of the most important constant elements of African American culture in the centuries-long journey from slavery to freedom. It also continued to play this role in blacks' post-emancipation odyssey from second-class citizenship to full...

In his acclaimed debut as a filmmaker, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson presents a powerful and transporting documentary, part music film, part historical record, created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture, and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just one hundred miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park). The footage was largely forgotten,...

Chronicles and captures poetically the history, mood, and movement of African American music.

Uses the music and lyrics of thirteen Afro-American songs as a focal point for relating the history of the African-American experience and for telling American musical history.

A rare musical treasury containing complete music and lyrics for over 130 songs, arranged by geographical region.

This book recounts the true story of the man behind the iconic American hero featured in the song "John Henry," recounting the tale of a young Virginia convict who died working on the first rail route through the Appalachian Mountains.