Up from the Cradle of Jazz

Up from the Cradle of Jazz documents the musical evolution of New Orleans from World War II through the modern era. The book traces the city's transition from traditional jazz to rhythm and blues, while examining the cultural forces that shaped these transformations. The text explores key figures, venues, and recording studios that defined New Orleans music across decades. Musical families, Mardi Gras Indians, and Caribbean influences receive particular focus, demonstrating the interconnected nature of the city's cultural traditions. The expanded 2009 edition includes new chapters covering Hurricane Katrina's impact on the New Orleans music community. This addition carries the narrative into the 21st century, addressing both the devastation and subsequent recovery efforts. The book stands as a chronicle of how New Orleans maintained its position as a musical epicenter through periods of both cultural prosperity and hardship. Its examination of the city's diverse influences and generational continuity reveals the foundations of American popular music development.

Readers cite this as a detailed history of New Orleans R&B and jazz from the 1940s-1980s. The book focuses on the musicians, venues, and cultural shifts during this period. Readers appreciated: - In-depth research and firsthand interviews - Coverage of lesser-known artists and clubs - Documentation of racial integration in music venues - Photos and historical context Common criticisms: - Writing can be dense and academic - Some sections lack narrative flow - Limited coverage of earlier jazz history Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (36 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (12 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Best documentation of New Orleans clubs and R&B scene during segregation" - Goodreads "Heavy on facts but light on storytelling" - Amazon "Required reading for understanding modern New Orleans music history" - LibraryThing

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🎵 The book took over seven years of research and interviews to complete, involving conversations with over 120 musicians and industry figures. 🎭 The title "Up from the Cradle of Jazz" references Congo Square, where enslaved people gathered to perform music and dance in the 19th century, laying foundations for New Orleans jazz. 🎺 One of the authors, Jason Berry, is also known for his groundbreaking investigative journalism about the Catholic Church, showing his versatility as a writer across different subjects. 🌊 The 2009 edition reveals how many musicians became cultural ambassadors for New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, using their art to draw attention to the city's recovery needs. 🎪 The book details how the Dew Drop Inn, a now-defunct nightclub, served as an essential incubator for R&B talent in the 1950s and hosted both Black and White musicians during segregation.