Depression Folk: Grassroots Music and Left-Wing Politics in 1930s America

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? Ronald D. Cohen 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, Cohen 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, Cohen 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.

Author: Ronald D. Cohen
Publisher: University of North Carolina Press
Published: 09/12/2016
Pages: 218
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.62lbs
Size: 8.58h x 5.49w x 0.59d
ISBN: 9781469628813

Review Citation(s):
Choice 05/01/2017

About the Author
Cohen, Ronald D.: - Ronald D. Cohen is emeritus professor of history at Indiana University Northwest.