This 1867 landmark book represents the first systematic effort to collect and preserve the songs sung by the plantation slaves of the Old South. Most of the 130 songs, arranged by geographic area, were recorded directly from the singers themselves. Includes the melody line and all known verses to each song.
American Negro Songs: 230 Folk Songs and Spirituals, Religious and Secular by John W. Work Authoritative study traces the African influences and lyric significance of such songs as "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "John Henry," and gives words and music for 230 songs. Bibliography. Index of Song Titles.
