Linthead Stomp: The Creation of Country Music in the Piedmont South by Patrick Huber

This book contends that the relationship between the increasing industrialization of the South (through cotton mills) and hillbilly music, one of the forerunners of modern country music, has not yet been adequately theorized. Through readings of the careers (and notable songs) of five hillbilly musicians, Huber attempts to correct that picture and show the influence of industrialization and the cotton mill on music of this type. Huber provides both biography, some sociological background (although I suspect there are better places to turn for straight sociology on the mills), and some reading of the music itself. I think the book works pretty well. I wanted an accompanying CD so I could *hear* what Huber was talking about, but he did quote lyrics, and provide a lot of photographs. I really enjoyed learning more about this music, and have been looking up the songs on Youtube and iTunes.