This intriguing book examines how Tennessee’s diverse music genres – including country, blues, gospel, bluegrass, soul and new acoustic – have evolved and influenced one another across the state and over the years. It provides practical site information for visitors exploring this rich musical territory, plus compelling tales of the men and women at the heart of Tennessee’s unique musical legacy.

Author Peter Zimmerman rambles to a series of small, out-of-the-way communities (Podunks), where tourists rarely stray, due to the fact that they offer no amenities or attractions. In the best tradition of Twain, Steinbeck, Least Heat Moon, and Bill Bryson, he follows the roads and trains “less traveled by” and delves into each place’s idiosyncratic history and culture.