Description
Book SynopsisNot only the life story of a jazz musician and spokesman but also a commentary on racism and jazz as a social force
Trade ReviewThe Jazz Life of Dr. Billy Taylor . . . does his high esteem justice. Without sacrificing the man's integrity, the book captures Dr. Taylor's wide-eyed enthusiasm for jazz and for his missions to further the music's tradition and expand its audience.
* JazzTimes *
...Those of us who had the privilege of hearing him speak will recognize how accurately Reed captures his spirit and his enthusiasm for the music to which he dedicated his life.
* NPR *
This must-read collaboration weaves not only the story of a highly esteemed jazz great and genre ambassador, but it is also a narrative on racism and the social influence of jazz.
* Smooth Jazz News *
This book (including Dr. Teresa L. Reed's eloquent introduction) captures with great clarity and accuracy the character of this man. Taylor not only always aspired to excellence, he was also humble and generous of word and deed. The Jazz Life of Dr. Billy Taylor provides the backstory of why he must be remembered as one of the major leading lights of America's classical music.
* New York City Jazz Record *
[C]o-author Reed has done an exemlary job of making the story flow in Taylor's own words.
* Jazzwise *
Table of ContentsIntroduction
Chronology of the Life of William Edward Taylor Jr.
1. Beginnings: 1921–1938
2. College Years: 1938–1942
3. Making Waves: 1943–1946
4. The Subject Is Jazz: 1946–1958
5. From "Tobacco Tags" to the Urban Airwaves: 1959–1968
6. How It Feels to Be Free: 1969–1990
7. Reflections
Discography
Selected Publications Authored by Dr. Billy Taylor
Index
