Footsteps in the Dark: The Hidden Histories of Popular Music

meh, I find some of the information/history is too glossed over. For instance, on page 44 he mentions the dancehall sound system of Jamaica being brought forth by ' a key entrepreneur" that started in the 60s by Chinese Jamaicans (who were Black...he fails to mention this, it's important to understand why race is important, especially when it comes to the origin of African people's music), what he also fails to mention is that 1.) Jamaican Sound Systems started in the 50s SMH and 2.) Randy, Leonard and Clive Chin are Black. In fact, many are Black. I just don't like the gloss over and I certainly take issue with utilizing information that condemns the Fugees' expression of exploitation by Asians in Black areas.

George Lipsitz writes the way I wish most authors would write. George Lipsitz writes the way I wish I could write. His humanity,wit and intelligence shine through on every page. And he writes in language that is meaningful to any intelligent reader, avoiding jargon and the goobledygook of academic subter-speak. For example, there is the extended metaphor of "the long fetch" throughout this book, using the action of ocean waves to explain the deep causative roots of events in popular culture. It makes sense when Lipsitz writes it, and really clarifies the complicated background behind what surfaces in the media.Any student of music, race, or twentieth century popular culture should read this book, and while you're at it pick up the rest of his work!

Good book