ECU Libraries Catalog

Depression folk : grassroots music and left-wing politics in 1930s America / Ronald D. Cohen.

Author/creator Cohen, Ronald D., 1940-2022 author.
Format Book and Print
Publication Info Chapel Hill : The University of North Carolina Press, [2016]
Copyright Notice ©2016
Description201 pages : illustrations ; 22 cm
Subject(s)
Contents On the trail of folk songs -- Depression's beginnings and labor songs -- The early Roosevelt years -- Heart of the depression -- 1937-1938: Woody Guthrie emerges -- 1938-1939: the New Deal survives -- Decade ends.
Abstract While music lovers and music historians alike understand that folk music played an increasingly pivotal role in American labor and politics during the economic and social tumult of the Great Depression, how did this relationship come to be? The author sheds new light on the complex cultural history of folk music in America, detailing the musicians, government agencies, and record companies that had a lasting impact during the 1930s and beyond. Covering myriad musical styles and performers, the author narrates a singular history that begins in nineteenth-century labor politics and popular music culture, following the rise of unions and Communism to the subsequent Red Scare and increasing power of the Conservative movement in American politics--with American folk and vernacular music centered throughout. Detailing the influence and achievements of such notable musicians as Pete Seeger, Big Bill Broonzy, and Woody Guthrie, the author explores the intersections of politics, economics, and race, using the roots of American folk music to explore one of the United States' most troubled times. Becoming entangled with the ascending American left wing, folk music became synonymous with protest and sharing the troubles of real people through song.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references and index.
LCCN 2015039988
ISBN9781469630465 hardcover ; alkaline paper
ISBN146963046X hardcover ; alkaline paper
ISBN9781469628813 paperback ; alkaline paper
ISBN1469628813 paperback ; alkaline paper
ISBNelectronic book

Available Items

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Closed Stacks - Ask at Circulation Desk ML3917.U6 C64 2016 ✔ Available Place Hold