This concise, accessible book describes American music as a panorama of distinct yet parallel streams--hip-hop and Latin; folk and country; gospel and classical; jazz, blues, and rock--that reflect the uniquely diverse character of the United States. Comparing and contrasting musical styles across regions and time, the author delivers a vision of American music both exuberant and inventive--a music that arises out of the history and musical traditions of the many immigrants to America's shores.