Liner Notes for the Revolution: The Intellectual Life of Black Feminist Sound

Daphne A. Brooks' Liner Notes for the Revolution is a groundbreaking exploration of the overlooked contributions of Black women in the music industry, tracing the lines between critics, collectors, and listeners and challenging perceptions of Black women on stage and in the recording studio.

Format: Hardback
Length: 608 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2021
Publisher: Harvard University Press

Daphne A. Brooks, a renowned Black feminist music critic, embarks on an exhilarating exploration of radical sound, spanning from the era of Bessie Smith to the contemporary era of Beyoncé. In her groundbreaking work, Liner Notes for the Revolution, Brooks delves into the intricate tapestry of music archives, seeking to unravel the complex narratives that have shaped perceptions of Black women in both the stage and recording studio. With a sharp analytical eye, she questions how iconic artists like Aretha Franklin and Beyoncé manage to exist simultaneously at the center and on the periphery of the culture industry.

Brooks' exploration extends beyond the realm of music alone, as she delves into the overlooked contributions of other Black women who have played pivotal roles in shaping the musical landscape. Zora Neale Hurston emerges as a sound archivist and performer, Lorraine Hansberry as a queer Black feminist critic of modern culture, and Pauline Hopkins as the pioneering Black female cultural commentator in America. Through their diverse perspectives, Brooks offers a startling new perspective on these acclaimed figures, shedding light on their often-overlooked contributions.

In her book, Brooks tackles the intricate racial politics that permeate blues music recording, song collecting, and rock and roll criticism. She delves into the experiences of blues pioneers like Bessie Smith and Mamie Smith, as well as the fans who transitioned from being enthusiasts to critical observers, such as the record-label entrepreneur and writer Rosetta Reitz. Brooks' lyrical forays into these diverse narratives provide a rich tapestry of insights and anecdotes, adding depth and complexity to her analysis.

Liner Notes for the Revolution is not only a scholarly work but also a celebration of the power of music to inspire and transform. Brooks' writing is lively, engaging, and accessible, making it a must-read for music enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of race, gender, and culture in the world of music. Through her meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, Brooks offers a fresh perspective on the history of Black women in music, challenging prevailing narratives and illuminating the untold stories that have shaped the genre.

In conclusion, Daphne A. Brooks' Liner Notes for the Revolution is a groundbreaking work that delves into the complex and multifaceted world of Black feminist music criticism. Through her meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging writing, Brooks offers a fresh perspective on the history of Black women in music, challenging prevailing narratives and illuminating the untold stories that have shaped the genre. This book is a must-read for music enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of race, gender, and culture in the world of music.

Weight: 1044g
Dimension: 168 x 242 x 56 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674052819