How Sweet the Sound

A stunningly illustrated celebration of the history of Black music in America by the award-winning author of The Undefeated. Listen to the sound of survival, courage, and democracy—the soundtrack of America. Hear Billie Holiday's raspy, mournful voice, and tap your foot to Louis Armstrong's trumpet.

Scream with James Brown and bop your head to Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Come dance to Kwame Alexander’s melodious narrative of the history of Black music in America, accompanied by the vibrant illustrations of Charly Palmer. The book includes extensive back matter, providing even more context and history about the music and musicians.