New York: Pantheon, (1998.) dj. SIGNED hardcover first edition - A reinterpretation and celebration of the tradition of black blues singers, the importance of blues not only as the roots of jazz but as a 'life-sustaining' vehicle for black women - focusing on Gertude "Ma" Rainey, 1886-1939; Bessie Smith, 1898?- 1937; and Billie Holiday, 1915-1959. Includes a transcription of all the extant lyrics recorded by Rainey and Smith. SIGNED on the half title page. Illustrated with photographs. Notes, works consulted, index. xx, 427 pp. ISBN: 0-679-45005X.