"Encyclopedia of the Blues is an indispensable reference source for everyone involved with or intrigued by the music. The work alphabetizes hundreds of biographical entries of the performers who have created and popularized the blues, presenting detailed examinations of the instruments, trends, recordings, and producers. It is appended with a very useful bibliography and discography, as well as mini-studies of selected blues standards."--

A comprehensive dictionary of blues lyrics invites listeners to interpret what they hear in blues songs and blues culture, including excerpts from original interviews with Dr. John, Bonnie Raitt, Hubert Sumlin, Buddy Guy, and many others.