Spirit of the Century

An insider history of the Blind Boys of Alabama, the longest running group in American music, and the untold story of their world, written with band members and key musical colleagues.

• “For more than seventy-five years since my Gospel-singing, schoolteacher mother introduced me to the Five Blind Boys from Alabama, we have been graced with their magnificent music, their thundering, harmonic power that moves soul and spirit. They’ve stood the test of time and they’re still striking hot iron with every note. Get on board with Spirit of the Century—people get ready, this is the train that’s comin’!”
  Taj Mahal
• “This is a story you WANT to know. If you know anything about The Blind Boys of Alabama—spirit, heart, and determination go into this fabulous blend of voices and music.  And you will understand the struggle, not just theirs but all of ours.”
  Whoopi Goldberg
• “This is an extraordinary story of an extraordinary group—a wonderful account of how these young men conquered their difficulties to become one of the most legendary and inspirational groups of our time.”
  Peter Gabriel
• “Gospel fans will have a hard time putting down this crowd-pleaser.”
  Publisher's Weekly
• “The Blind Boys of Alabama have enjoyed an astonishing career marked by an unwavering work ethic, inspired collaboration, and mesmerizing live performances… A riveting and excting read.”
  Booklist
• “A riveting celebration of the Blind Boys of Alabama’s glorious and often unpredictable musical journey.”
  Arts Fuse
• “Every page of Spirit of the Century teems with stories of the group’s challenges and triumphs.”
  No Depression
• "Spirit of the Century is as entertaining and filled with joie de vivre as the Blind Boys themselves."
  Living Blues
• “[The book] offers a rousing view of the old gospel highway…and provides a rare chance to pause and take stock for a group that has been moving forward for almost 90 years.”
  Washington Post