Donald Clarke (1) (1940–)

Amazing, largely eyewitness accounts of the jazz scene circa 30's, 40's, & 50's as told by friends and acquaintances of Billy Holiday, and interpreted by the author. Based on over 150 interviews conducted by Linda Lipnack Kuehl circa 1970-72, Clarke manages to thread together a narrative that rifts with names, places and events that sometimes become too boggling to keep track of. The recollections of Jimmy Fletcher, a black narcotics agent for the government, are especially insightful about the crackdown on narcotics after Prohibition and the harrassment of high profile targets like Billy. Its all good, and should serve as primary reference for collectors and fans alike.… (meer)