After a century of racist whitewashing, country music is finally reckoning with its relationship to Black people. In “Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions”—the first book on Black country music by a Black writer—Francesca Royster uncovers the Black performers and fans who are exploring the pleasures and possibilities of the genre.

Informed by queer theory and Black feminist scholarship, Royster’s book elucidates the roots of the current moment found in records like Tina Turner’s first solo album, Tina Turns the Country On! She reckons with Black “bros” Charley Pride and Darius Rucker, then chases ghosts into the future with Valerie June. Join Royster for a conversation with journalist Taylor Crumpton. Book signing to follow.