Publications, Books

African American Music:  An Introduction  

New York:  Cengage Learning (formerly Schirmer Books; London:  Prentice Hall International), 1998.

ISBN-10: 0028602943  |  ISBN-13: 9780028602943

African-American Music provides a critical introduction to all the richness and diversity of African-American musical styles that have come into prominence since Reconstruction, focusing on the distinct characteristics and development of each genre and its inherent styles including: spirituals, blues, gospel, ragtime, jazz, pop, and classical music. 

Eclectic Fables

Seven Tales from the Black Experience

Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse (formerly known as 1st Books Library, San Bernardino, CA), 2002

ISBN:  978-1-40331-940-1

Eclectic Fables is a set of short stories derived essentially from the complex experiences of the author.  They still remain potent to this day - even if they are not as frequently or explicitly addressed.

Vernacular Harmony

San Diego, CA:  University Readers, an imprint of Cognella, 2010

ISBN:  978-1-60927-783-3

Provides an introduction to the complex world of harmony in jazz and jazz-derived music styles. It examines in rich detail the harmonies of the vernacular tradition in their primary, secondary, and extended manifestations. Beginning with a review of triads, intervals, and chord symbols, the book continues by examining the various scales employed in vernacular music. From there, a thorough examination of chord scales common to vernacular music is provided. Primary functions are then explored exhaustively, and secondary and extended functions treated in great depth. Finally an addendum of rarely used features rounds out the work. Replete with illustrative musical examples, this book is an indispensable tool for students of these complex styles.

The Art of Soul Music 1960-1980

(preliminary edition)

Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt Publishing Company, 2012

ISBN-978-0-7575-9999-6

Takes a critical look at the nature of melody, harmony, and structure during the 1960 to 1980 time period. The publication identifies, illustrates, and explains the musical figures, devices, and techniques that give soul music its aesthetic appeal and affective power. In the process, The Art of Soul Music gives the reader a new appreciation of the origins, evolution, and artistry of one of the most popular musical genres in the history of the world.