The Language of the Blues

Find out what the words in your favorite blues songs really mean! In The Language of the Blues: From Alcorub to Zuzu (Foreword by Dr. John), rock musician Debra Devi defines 170 blues terms like mojo, hoodoo, buffet flat and killing floor with wild stories and fresh insights from her interviews with such blues stars as Hubert Sumlin, Robert Jr. Lockwood, Henry Gray, Little Milton Campbell, Bob Margolin, Jody Williams, Robben Ford, Jimmie Vaughan, and more. Devi combines her interviews with in-depth research into etymology, African language, voodoo and the origins of blues, rock and jazz. The result is a lively read Reuters calls "a witty, bawdy and fascinating dictionary." The Language of the Blues has received the ASCAP Deems Taylor Award for Outstanding Book on Music


The Language of the Blues includes more than 30 photos (17 color) and a remarkable foreword by Dr. John, who helped Devi uncover the illegal gambling origins of terms like "gig" and "axe." The Language of the Blues has earned back-cover praise from Bonnie Raitt, Joe Bonamassa, former Muddy Waters guitarist Bob Margolin, producer Hal Willner, and even Ministry singer Al Jourgensen! "What a great resource, as fascinating as it is informative. Debra Devi's passion for the blues shines through," says Bonnie Raitt. Joe Bonamassa adds, "Devi's book will teach you what you really need to know about blues history and where the blues are coming from." Al Jourgensen notes: "Finally one can understand the mechanics behind the overwhelming viscera of the Blues. Debra Devi's work is a true guide book to the soul."


Blues Revue deems The Language of the Blues "an essential purchase for scholars and fans" and New York Times columnist Shelton Ivany says, "If you have any questions about blues songs, lyrics, musicians or events, chances are you will find your answers in this unparalleled publication."


"Don't think that The Language of the Blues might read like a dictionary or reference book," explains former Muddy Waters guitarist Bob Margolin. "There's no plot, but you can open it at random and fall into the world of your favorite blues songs, finding out more about the lyrics than you would by guessing from context. I learned a lot more about the blues music I love."


Devi is an American Blues Scene contributing editor and former Blues Revue associate editor. She is also an accomplished rock singer and guitarist. Visit her at www.debradevi.com


Backcover Blurbs for The Language of the Blues: From Alcorub to Zuzu by Debra Devi


"What a great resource, as fascinating as it is informative. Debra Devi's passion for the blues shines through." - Bonnie Raitt.


"Devi's book will teach you what you really need to know about blues history and where the blues are coming from." - Joe Bonamassa


"This book is fascinating! Take it to the bathroom and don't come out until you're done reading it." - Jimmy Vivino


"This is a beautiful book. After hearing 'Hellhound on My Trail' in high school I bought every vintage blues record available at the time. Upon receiving The Language of the Blues I discovered my knowledge only scratched the surface. Debra Devi has written an invaluable reference book. And it's also great fun to read." - Hal Willner


"Congratulations to Debra Devi for The Language of the Blues. Its candor and witty