Life in the Key of Em: Conversations with the Blues

The Blues, as a music form, in an integral part of the sonic fabric of the United States. In order to keep the blues alive, the newest generation of music lovers must find ways to connect with the great diversity of blues talent around them. This book brought students from Drake University together with local Iowa blues talent. The students interviewed these players in coffee houses, venues and other locations and discussed influences, song-writing, performing, and a host of other topics. It allowed students to construct what the blues means to them personally. The idea of "keeping the blues alive" is manifested through this book along with the social, historic, and cultural meanings rooted in the genre. The book includes interviews with: Rob Lumbard, Tina Haase Findlay, Justin Appel, Scott Allen, Tom Gary, Bob Dorr, Malcolm Wells, Matt Woods, Dwight Dario, Bob Pace, Scott Cochran, Vicki Price, Joe Price, George Davis, James Biehn, Greg Sutherland, and Scott Eggleston.