Encyclopedia Of American Gospel Music

For scholars and general readers, this encyclopedia supplies comprehensive information on both black and white gospel, not often combined in reference texts. Articles cover biographies of early and contemporary performers and groups, significant events, radio stations, record and publishing companies, publications, and instruments. The editor includes bibliographies and discographies, and birth and death dates when possible. McNeil is affiliated with the Ozark Folk Center, and entries are by 61 contributors from around the world. Annotation c2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Dr. William K. McNeil, a historian with a Ph.D. in Folklore and American Studies, has been the folklorist at the Ozark folk Center in Mountain View, Arkansas, since 1976. Dr. McNeil has also worked for the Smithsonian Institution and the Office of State History in Albany, NY. In 1995, he was elected to the Fellows of the American Folklore Society.
Dr. McNeil has writen sixteen books and contributed to many publications as an editor, columnist, or reviewer. He has also produced thirty-six recordings dealing with folk, popular, country, and gospel music. His Smithsonian Collection of Classic Blues was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1993.