Emotional courage is an underestimated characteristic of successful Black life in the segregated, unjust US south. Author Greg Freeland reflects on how music reflected, impacted, and influenced Black life in 1950s and 1960s North Carolina.

The celebratory aspect of the Black rhythm and blues, jazz, and gospel music of Freeland’s life is one of his clearest memories of the time. In this book, he recalls and reflects upon how music was integral to the solidary and resilience of his Black community in an unequal and unjust society. Through examples of music in the household, church, clubs, parties, and schools, this book explores how music worked in a manner that facilitated the development, mobilization, and realization of Black life.

Gregory Freeland PhD is Uyeno-Tseng Professor of Global Studies and in the Department of Political Science for California Lutheran University. A member of the Caribbean Studies Association and the Western Political Science Association, he teaches courses on Social Movements, Latin American/Caribbean Politics and Culture, and Music and Civil Rights Movement. In April 2017, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) in recognition of outstanding and invaluable service to the community.