Author Description

Find out what the words in your favorite blues songs really mean! In The Language of the Blues: From Alcorub to Zuzu (Foreword by Dr. John), rock musician Debra Devi defines 170 blues terms like mojo, hoodoo, buffet flat and killing floor with wild stories and fresh insights from her interviews with such blues stars as Hubert Sumlin, Robert Jr. Lockwood, Henry Gray, Little Milton Campbell, Bob Margolin, Jody Williams, Robben Ford, Jimmie Vaughan, and more. Devi combines her interviews with in-depth research into etymology, African language, voodoo and the origins of blues, rock and jazz. The result is a lively read Reuters calls "a witty, bawdy and fascinating dictionary." The Language of the Blues has received the ASCAP Deems Taylor Award for Outstanding Book on Music The Language of the Blues includes more than 30 photos (17 color) and a remarkable foreword by Dr. John, who helped Devi uncover the illegal gambling origins of terms like "gig" and "axe." The Language of the Blues has earned back-cover praise from Bonnie Raitt, Joe Bonamassa, former Muddy Waters guitarist Bob Margolin, producer Hal Willner, and even Ministry singer Al Jourgensen! "What a great resource, as fascinating as it is informative. Debra Devi's passion for the blues shines through," says Bonnie Raitt. Joe Bonamassa adds, "Devi's book will teach you what you really need to know about blues history and where the blues are coming from." Al Jourgensen notes: "Finally one can understand the mechanics behind the overwhelming viscera of the Blues. Debra Devi's work is a true guide book to the soul." Blues Revue deems The Language of the Blues "an essential purchase for scholars and fans" and New York Times columnist Shelton Ivany says, "If you have any questions about blues songs, lyrics, musicians or events, chances are you will find your answers in this unparalleled publication." "Don't think that The Language of the Blues might read like a dictionary or reference book," ex