"This deeply researched book explores the life and music of folk legend Lead Belly within the context of the Jim Crow era. The work will appeal to a range of audiences, from Lead Belly fans and historians to readers interested in civil rights, mass incarceration, and the power of narrative"-- Provided by publisher.

Encounter at Angola -- Two men from Texas -- On the road -- 1915 : the State of Texas v. Huddie Ledbetter -- Frayed nerves -- 1918 : the State of Texas v. Walter Boyd -- Northern debut -- Contracts -- 1930 : the State of Louisiana v. Huddie Ledbetter -- The end of the road.