Sing Songs of America

Shaw, John.  This Land That I Love: Irving Berlin, Woody Guthrie, and the Story of Two 
          American Anthems.  NY: Public Affairs, November 2013.  ISBN: 978-1-61039-223-5

John Shaw masterfully entwines the lives of two songwriters (Irving Berlin and Woody Guthrie) and two of their most famous songs (God Bless America and This Land is Your Land) in This Land I Love.  He explores a number of parallels in their lives in regard to poverty stricken early life, early success, etc.  He also contrasts their differences in background, politics, and success in life. 

However, not satisfied with entwining the songwriters, Shaw also compares the songs, looking into the textual history of each, tracing the myriad changes until we arrive at the finished product that we listen to or sing.  Shaw provides the context that shaped each song, taking the reader on an exploration of American musical history that deepens our appreciation of each song.  Shaw also kindly provides a recommended list of Berlin's and Guthrie's works.

If you enjoy exploring musical history or just American history, This Land That I Love will provide plenty of pleasure.