Soundies and the Changing Image of Black Americans on Screen: One Dime at a Time

In the 1940s, Soundies were three-minute films that preceded music videos. Susan Delson's book Soundies and the Changing Image of Black Americans on Screen explores the role of Black performers in this little-known genre, highlighting the women who helped shape Soundies and offering an intimate look at icons of the age, such as Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 418 pages
\n Publication date: 07 December 2021
\n Publisher: Indiana University Press
\n

In the vibrant 1940s, a captivating phenomenon emerged as people gathered around Panoram movie machines in bars and restaurants, eagerly watching three-minute films known as Soundies. These remarkable precursors to today's music videos captured the essence of musical entertainment and quickly became a beloved pastime. However, this rich history seemed to fade into obscurity, lost amidst the tides of time. It was only until the dawn of the digital era that Soundies found their way back into our lives, gracing phones and computer screens, including a heartwarming YouTube clip featuring a 102-year-old Harlem dancer, marveling at her younger self's vibrant performance in a Soundie.

In her insightful book, Soundies and the Changing Image of Black Americans on Screen: One Dime at a Time, Susan Delson delves deep into the world of these fascinating films, shedding light on the significant role played by Black performers in this lesser-known genre. Through her meticulous exploration, she highlights the remarkable contributions of women performers such as Dorothy Dandridge, who left an indelible mark on Soundies. Delson also provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of iconic figures of the era, including Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole, adding a layer of depth to our understanding of this captivating period.

By utilizing previously unknown archival materials, including letters, corporate memos, and courtroom testimony, Delson meticulously traces the precarious journey of Soundies. Through her meticulous research, she presents an insightful pop-culture snapshot of race relations during and just after World War II. This captivating book appeals to readers with a passion for film, American history, the World War II era, and Black entertainment history, offering a fresh perspective on the invaluable contributions of these Black artists.

In addition to the written text, Soundies and the Changing Image of Black Americans on Screen comes accompanied by a companion video website, susandelson.com, which further enhances our understanding and appreciation of this remarkable era. The website features interviews with experts, rare footage, and interactive elements, allowing readers to delve even deeper into the world of Soundies and the impact they had on shaping the cultural landscape of the time.

Through the pages of Soundies and the Changing Image of Black Americans on Screen and the accompanying video website, we are invited to rediscover the magic of Soundies and the profound impact they had on the lives of Black Americans. Susan Delson's book and website serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of these artists and their contributions to the world of entertainment. Let us celebrate their brilliance and honor their legacy by cherishing the Soundies that continue to captivate us today.

\n Weight: 780g\n
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780253058539\n \n