John Coltrane grew up in High Point and was a highly influential jazz saxophonist. For more on his life, please read the aptly-titled "John Coltrane: His Life and Music" by Lewis Porter. Thelonius Monk, Billy Taylor, and dozens of other jazz, gospel, blues, and rap artists are studied in the extensive "The African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina" by Sarah Bryan and Beverly Patterson.
Interested in learning more about the influence of this state on jazz and blues musicians? Then please check out these books at your local library or bookstore! Happy reading (and listening)!
