This 1965 recording traces the evolution of African American folk music from the South. The oral tradition of folk music in the African American community has demonstrated a perseverance through the eras of slavery and segregation while embracing and influencing American popular music through songs, lyrics and performance. 33 songs, 1. 4 hours, with liner notes by producer Charles Edward Smith detailing the historical underpinnings of African American folk music and background notes on songs including lyrics.