Greetings! I had the great privilege to speak with Dr. Francesca Royster, professor of English at DePaul University, on her essential new book, Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions. Dr. Royster masterfully weaves the story of the relationship between blacks and country music, including the whitewashing of black artists for many years; the resurgence of black artists now making country music; and her personal journey as a fan of the genre, from the perspective of "queer theory and black feminism." Dr. Royster weaves it all together in a compelling narrative that is at once sobering, yet also very joyous in her appreciation of this wonderful music. 

A number of songs are interwoven in the narrative; all come from the playlist, CURATED BY DR. ROYSTER HERSELF, that accompanies this episode. That can be found here: 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/18DVB3Y2KwI5rryJAMpt3a?si=8b3e321235c1417d

I'm very appreciative that Dr. Royster not only spent time with me, but curated the playlist. Take some time to enjoy it - it's fantastic. 

See you all soon with a new episode!