"This ambitious picture book from the creators of Going Back Home offers a sweeping visual history of African Americans through music, from the pulsating drums of Africa … right on up to present-day rap and hip hop…. Impeccably crafted, this visually exciting and lyrically memorable tour de force is not to be missed." —Publishers Weekly (*starred review)

"Wood's vibrant paintings are based in historical detail, and resonate with emotion. The color choices, postures of the figures, as well as the expressions on their faces, reflect various aspects of African American music; the pictures broadcast joy, innovation, and exuberance in the face of systematic oppression."
     —Kirkus Reviews

"Each stunning spread—including art, poetic text, a description of the music style, and a time line of historical events—encompasses the spirit of the times and the strength of the communities where the music was born…. This children's book is an inspiring celebration of African American music and its far-reaching impact on the world." —Multicultural Education

"[The book] is a work of tremendous emotional power, both visually and textually, set against an illuminating flow of historical events and characters…. This compact picture book is infinitely rich, wide, and deep, showing how one musical form influenced the next." —Children's Book Award Annual (1999)