- Publisher : Independently published (February 4, 2021)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 146 pages
- ASIN : B08VYLNWSM
- ISBN-13 : 979-8704217886
- Item Weight : 7.4 ounces
- Dimensions : 6 x 0.33 x 9 inches
- http://www.amazon.com –> Johan Wijngaarden books —> A Blues Life
A BLUES LIFE
Wow! The author, Johan Wijngaarden, clearly has such a passion for the Blues, especially the Delta blues! He has been there, researched deeply, and you can feel how he feels about the blues with every page you turn. I learned a lot about many of the original blues artists, and this spurred me to listen more and do some of my own research, before buying some of the excellent music he mentions. Johan puts his own personal touch into each of the short stories, and this must be one of the most personal music-related accounts I have ever read. His stories inspire me to visit the Mississippi Delta. This book is a ‘must buy’ for any blues fan, or anyone simply wanting to inject more blues music into their life. I look forward to his next publication. Long live the blues, long live ‘A Blues Life’, and long live Johan Wijngaarden!
by Christopher Eccles, UK
Oct 8, 2015
Johan Wijngaarden surprised me with how touched I was by his experiences pursuing Delta Blues history and musicians. His deep commitment to the music and musicians, and his subtle and self effacing humor made me smile many times as I learned more about the early artists and the modern players he interacted with. Highly recommended for both simple satisfaction from a bunch of good stories as well as the education accompanying them.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on October 8, 2015
Johan Wijngarrden’s touching and humorous book, A Blues Life, is a rare jewel for those who love Blues music and the artists who give it life. Johan’s sincerity, depth of feeling, and intelligence way more than make up for his occasionally spotty command of English idioms. In fact I think his intuitive writing may be even more effective because of it. His stories stemming from a recent pilgrimage to America’s south Delta show that love opens doors and is returned many times over, with serendipitous connections and concerts by modern masters of the music. As a suggestion, If you find the early chapters are overly history-heavy, jump ahead to Part 2 where his personal experiences are more highlighted. Come back to the beginning later which may then be less dry with the greater personal context.
Highly recommended for lovers of early Blues.
by Steve Goodale, USA