Spirit of the Century

An insider history of the Blind Boys of Alabama, the longest-running group in American music, and the untold story of their world, written with band members and key musical colleagues.

The Blind Boys of Alabama are the quintessential gospel vocal group and the longest-running musical institution in America. Their story intersects with pivotal moments and issues in American history and is an ideal prism through which to view music, culture, history, and race in America. Spirit of the Century invites readers to follow the Blind Boys’ eight-decade journey together, from a segregated trade school through the rough-and-tumble indie record game and the grinding tour schedule of the golden age of gospel, to starring in an iconic Broadway musical; performing at the White House for three presidents; collaborating with Willie Nelson, Mavis Staples, Lou Reed, and Ben Harper, among others; singing the theme song for The Wire; and winning five Grammys. More than just a story of the Blind Boys’ illustrious career, Spirit of the Century also sheds new light on the larger world of African American gospel music, its origins, and the colorful characters at its center.

Though there have been several iterations of the group over the decades, Spirit of the Century rounds up all surviving members as contributors to the telling of their own story, and as a result, the book offers a unique and intimate perspective on the group’s enduring success. These legendary musicians provide this book with the voice, firsthand perspective, and authenticity that bring their story the same inspirational power that you hear in their songs.

Thought-provoking, heartfelt, and deeply inspiring, Spirit of the Century is a fascinating and one-of-a-kind read that you won’t be able to put down.