Books by Nat Hentoff

Focuses on representative individuals for whom American Constitution is a vital part of life. This title covers a range of American life in the profiles and stories about public and private heroes who challenge assaults on the Bill of Rights.

Nat Hentoff, renowned jazz critic, civil liberties activist, and fearless contrarian-"e;I'm a Jewish atheist civil-libertarian pro-lifer"e;-has lived through much of jazz's history and has known many of jazz's most important figures, often as friend and confidant. Hentoff has been a tireless advocate for the neglected parts of jazz history, including forgotten sidemen and -women. This volume includes his best recent work-short essays, long interviews, and personal recollections. From Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong to Ornette Coleman and Quincy Jones, Hentoff brings the jazz greats to life and traces their art to gospel, blues, and many other forms of American music. At the Jazz Band Ball also includes Hentoff's keen, cosmopolitan observations on a wide range of issues. The book shows how jazz and education are a vital partnership, how free expression is the essence of liberty, and how social justice issues like health care and strong civil rights and liberties keep all the arts-and all members of society-strong.

Thank God for Nat, who places the soul of the musician above that of his art.--Dizzy Gillespie

More than 20 years of Nat Hentoff's dazzling and provocative writings on jazz, politics, and American thought

"The last few years have witnessed an enormous resurgence in the popularity of jazz, after some lean times in the sixties when many potential jazz fans turned to rock. Now the pendulum is on the backsw"

"Here is Nat Hentoff's deeply felt exploration of jazz, blues, country, and gospel--and the musicians who bring the music to life. Hentoff has not only loved music all his life, he has lived it by being"