Rhythm Without Blues: The Dichotomy of a Music Genre | by Dr. Syleecia Thompson (Book)
Is Black Music Dying?
Dr. Syleecia Thompson’s Rhythm
Without Blues: The Dichotomy of a Music Genre takes the reader inside
the world of a 70-year-old music genre with candid and never before
heard information about the music industry. Thompson’s book includes
interviews with artists, producers, lawyers, managers and industry
insiders.
Most of us only hear about the success stories of
those who’ve been fortunate to have made it. But what did these artists
have to go through in order to reach fame and fortune? This tell-all
book exposes the dark side of the R&B music industry; the greed,
manipulation and deceit. It reveals how talent is tarnished by trickery
and music consumers are continuously fooled by the industry. Everything
comes to light in her book as it also offers hope and supplies sensible
solutions to picking up the pieces and saving the soul of R&B.
As
the daughter of soul legend, Syl Johnson, and sister of R&B great,
Syleena Johnson, Dr. Syleecia Thompson has seen it all. This insider’s
narration reveals the dark side of the industry. Thompson’s book
contains excerpts from unedited interviews (several anonymous) from
such greats as R. Kelly and Syleena Johnson, industry giants Micky
“MeMpHitz” Wright of Jive Records, Brownstone’s Nichole Gilbert,
Michael “Blue” Williams and countless others.
Thompson’s book is
not only an eye-opener, but it serves as a teaching tool for aspiring
R&B artists, novice label executives, and music lovers. For those
already in the business, this book is an invaluable resource.
If
you’ve ever felt the blues, sang the blues, or simply love rhythm and
blues, you’ll want to pick up a copy of Thompson’s book and give one to
friends who love and appreciate a style of music that was the precursor
to rock and roll and soul. You’ll fall in love with R&B all over
again, and rediscover what its roots and message are really about.
Rhythm
Without Blues is a stunning tribute to the heart and soul of a music
genre steeped in tradition, rich history, Southern sound, gospel, and
urban influences. To order go to www.amazon.com,
www.rhythmwithoutblues.com or www.barnesandnoble.com.
About the Author:
Dr.
Syleecia Thompson is a professor and academic scholar in Leadership,
Organizational Change, Business and Music Business Management. She is a
member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and the New York Chapter of the
Recording Academy. She serves as a music expert and consultant to small
independent labels and artists and has been an industry insider for
years. She is also president of Aneelys Records. Thompson is currently
writing her second book and lives in New York. Thompson is currently
available for speaking engagements, book signings and public
appearances across the country.