Originally published in 1867 and reprinted in a more modern edition, this book of Slave Songs of 136 songs is, indeed, a tribute to the musical heritage of African-Americans. The collection is divided into four sections:
I. Southeastern Slave States,
II. Northern Seaboard Slave States,
III. Inland Slave States,
IV. Slave Songs of the United States. Among them are: Roll, Jordan, Roll; Jehovah, Hallelujah; I hear from Heaven to-day; Michael, row the boat ashore; Turn sinner, turn O; Nobody knows the trouble I’ve had; No Man can hinder me; Heave away; Charleston Gals; I’m gwine to Alabamy; I want to die like-a Lazarus die; Belle Layotte; On to Glory Jacob’s Ladder; My Father, how long?; Musieu Bainjo; Lean on the Lord’s side; God got plenty o’ room. Many of the songs were collected from people who had been slaves until very recently. The editors also include directions for singing, along with a commentary on each song’s history, its possible variations. The introduction is superbly revealing, both for the respect the compilers show African-American music and the attitudes they were struggling against. This book, Slave songs of the United States , by William Francis Allen, Charles Pickard Ware, Lucy McKim Garrison, is a replication of a book originally published before 1867. It has been restored by human beings, page by page, so that you may enjoy it in a form as close to the original as possible.