Great Depression: American Music in the '30s collects popular songs from one of the nation's most challenging eras. Songs like
Victoria Spivey's "Detroit Moan," Billie Holliday's "Gloomy Sunday," Bill Cox's "NRA Blues," and
Rudy Vallee's "Brother Can You Spare a Dime" convey the hard times and despair synonymous with that period, while
Ted Lewis' "There's a New Day Comin'" and "Headin' for Better Times,"
Hal Kemp's "With Plenty of Money and You," and
Artie Shaw's "Whistle While You Work" add an optimistic touch.
Great Depression: American Music in the '30s gives a good representation of how swing, big band, folk, and blues helped America express and enjoy itself during tough times. ~ Heather Phares