Welcome to John A. Jackson

Welcome to my website. I’ve been writing about American popular music history for over two decades (see my brief biography), and during that span I’ve been fortunate to have several books published. Lately I’ve felt an urge to become a bit more accessible. Despite my success, I realize the group of people aware of my writing endeavors remains relatively small. I’m also pretty certain there are those in that group who would enjoy what I do, if only they knew it existed. (See my “works.”) As for those already familiar with my writing, some might be wondering what I’m up to these days; if, perhaps, another book might be “in the works.”

Others might have a question or comment pertaining to my writing. (See my Blog.) Whenever I complete a particular project, the research I’ve conducted remains—in the form of interviews, photos, and what have you. Much of it is enlightening in its own right, and deserves the light of day. (See my Gallery and Blog.) Every so often I have an idea or opinion I’d like to express, one that doesn’t require (or even deserve) an entire book. With this website I now have that opportunity. So if you happen to be a newcomer, by all means, c’mon in and take a look around. I hope you’ll find something of interest. To those of you already familiar with my work, now you know where to find me.

Works

  • Amazing Gracie

    Amazing Gracie

    Amazing Gracie!: Rock and Roll's Hidden Giant Tells His Story. Van Nuys, CA: Alfred Music, (Forthcoming) 2014. ...
    The Alan Freed Story: The Early Years of Rock & Roll

    The Alan Freed Story: T...

    The Alan Freed Story: The Early Years of Rock & Roll.Narberth, PA, Collectables (Paperback, 2005) ...
    A House On Fire

    A House On Fire

    "If You Don't Know Me By Now," "The Love I Lost," "The Soul Train Theme," "Then Came You," "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now"--the distinctive music that became known a ...
  • American Bandstand

    American Bandstand

    "I don't make culture, I sell it" Dick Clark once remarked. Indeed, the man who reigned as host of American Bandstand for nearly four decades may not have inven ...
    Big Beat Heat

    Big Beat Heat

    Big Beat Heat: Alan Freed and the Early Years of Rock & Roll. Received the ARSC Award for Excellence and the Ralph J. Gleason Music Book Award. ...

Author & Music Historian

- John A. Jackson