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Father Of The Blues: An Autobiography
by
W.C. Handy
W. C. Handy's blues—“Memphis Blues," "Beale Street Blues," "St. Louis Blues"—changed America's music forever. In
Father of the Blues,
Handy presents his own story: a vivid picture of American life now vanished. W. C. Handy (1873–1958) was a sensitive child who loved nature and music; but not until he had won a reputation did his father, a preacher of stern Calvinist faith,
...more
Paperback
,
340 pages
Published
March 22nd 1991
by Da Capo Press
(first published February 1985)
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Community Reviews
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Some of the stories, particularly of Handy's life before he hit the big time, are interesting and told with a fine sense of humor. The chapter with Handy's take on ASCAP and copyright law circa 1940 was interesting also. Other parts of the book ramble on listing performers & music I've never heard of.
Handy's attitude toward black vs. white performers of the blues and his disdain for swing make for slightly uncomfortable reading. I also find it odd that he talks about how you can't feel it if ...more
Handy's attitude toward black vs. white performers of the blues and his disdain for swing make for slightly uncomfortable reading. I also find it odd that he talks about how you can't feel it if ...more
As someone who lives in Florence, AL, it was incredibly moving to read Mr. Handy's account on his life growing up in the area. It's amazing to know that he walked down the same downtown city streets that I do today. The writing is entertaining and honest. I would encourage anyone with a curiosity about Mr. Handy's life or the history of blues music to read this book.
There is value in the first person recount of an important phase of american music. But all too often Handy descends into listing artists and events without giving much attention to the world around them.
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