Summary: The story of how Jewish and African-American music came to be mingled is the story of how the soundtrack of the American Century came to be written
Jews and Blues offers a thought-provoking mixture of music, interviews and archival tape. There's singing by experts, and interviews with singers, and throughout, even though he doesn't delve into it deeply, Goldfarb doesn't shy away from bringing up what's controversial-- the sometimes tension-laden interactions of Jews and African-Americans, particularly in the world of entertainment. This piece strikes a great balance between information and music. Play it for avid Blues fans who should learn something if they listen to it, and for the passing enthusiasts who should be drawn in by the great and varied music.
Michael Goldfarb explores the connections between Jewish and African-American popular music in the 1st half of the 20th century in this fascinating hour. The music and interviews keep the pace of this program going throughout the hour, and Goldfarb’s narration and voice add to the mix with authority, interest, and enthusiasm for the topic. This should be no surprise to those who have listened to his reports over the years. An excellent execution of terrific tale. This program could be aired anytime of year, with emphasis on Black History Month, Rosh Hashanah, or if your blues programmer doesn’t show up at the last minute. I could also hear this piece on a weekend afternoon. Treat your listeners to radio done well.
Comments for Jews & Blues: Inside Out
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Rating Summary
3 comments
Mike Goss
Posted on May 22, 2014 at 09:28 AM | Permalink
Review of Jews & Blues: Inside Out
The social and musical aspects of this mingling are explored in an informative and entertaining way.
Sarah Elzas
Posted on August 12, 2005 at 07:24 AM | Permalink
Review of Jews & Blues: Inside Out
Jews and Blues offers a thought-provoking mixture of music, interviews and archival tape. There's singing by experts, and interviews with singers, and throughout, even though he doesn't delve into it deeply, Goldfarb doesn't shy away from bringing up what's controversial-- the sometimes tension-laden interactions of Jews and African-Americans, particularly in the world of entertainment. This piece strikes a great balance between information and music. Play it for avid Blues fans who should learn something if they listen to it, and for the passing enthusiasts who should be drawn in by the great and varied music.
Michael Johnson
Posted on August 10, 2005 at 12:20 AM | Permalink
Review of Jews & Blues: Inside Out
Michael Goldfarb explores the connections between Jewish and African-American popular music in the 1st half of the 20th century in this fascinating hour. The music and interviews keep the pace of this program going throughout the hour, and Goldfarb’s narration and voice add to the mix with authority, interest, and enthusiasm for the topic. This should be no surprise to those who have listened to his reports over the years. An excellent execution of terrific tale. This program could be aired anytime of year, with emphasis on Black History Month, Rosh Hashanah, or if your blues programmer doesn’t show up at the last minute. I could also hear this piece on a weekend afternoon. Treat your listeners to radio done well.