Roland Hayes: The Legacy of an American Tenor

When it comes to who’s who in American history or that of African American History during the 1920-30s,- names such as Paul Robeson and Josephine Baker, (on a global platform) we knew well. But whatever happened to that of Roland Hayes? Why was this person with fame and equal global attraction missed? How is it that this man, singer, entrepreneur, author, mentor, father, husband, teacher, and historian overlooked? Roland Hayes: The Legacy of an American Tenor, by Christopher Brooks and Robert Sims; scholarly introduces the candid, gossipy, eloquent, valid, conservative, aggressive, romantic, racial struggles, business oppositions/accomplishments and dramatic mysteries of this legendary man. Brooks’ research proved to be academically approached with devoted attention to details made possible and accessible to the world and the fans of Roland Hayes. If you’re looking to understand the historical story, personality and character of Roland Hayes, it’s in this book. I am very pleased with the intellectual hard work put into this book. Roland Hayes, even made mention that he’s a messenger and his mission was to share not only his talent and skills but to send a message. This fascinating biography amplifies that message comprised with concert and recital repertoire, pictures, bibliography, notes, letters, and index. Personally, I highly recommend this reading material. This insightful biography was long overdue and yet right on time! Cleverly obtainable, absorbing information and valuable to music literature, this biography illuminates the best pictorial life of this great man. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!- Jackson Caesar, Vocal performer/entertainer, Washington, DC.

This was a fascinating read about one of America's forgotten musical stars. It focused a great deal on when/where Mr. Hayes performed, while still giving the juicy and interesting biographical details that make biographies worth reading. My only complaint is that it didn't give any commentary on the intersection between Roland Hayes and Marian Anderson. I picked it up expressly to find out how they were connected (from his end), because she wrote about him with warmth in her autobiography "My Lord, What A Morning". I was a little saddened that the biographers didn't explore that connection with any depth. It seemed far more focused on his individual career (which is fine, but not quite what I was hoping for).

I knew Roland Hayes, having accompanied in his studio in Boston nearly 50 years ago. This is truly a fascinating record of the life of a fascinating man. I recommend it wholeheartedly. There was always something mysterious about Mr. Hayes. If only I could have known then what I have learned from this book! I can't say that this book demystifies him...in fact, the more we know, the more we want to know. But this is a terrific book...one of those few books that make you sad that you've read the last page.

Comprehensive look at the son of a former slave, an extraordinarily talented singer and savvy businessman. Although little known today, he was the first world renown African American classical singer. Wonderful piece of history.

I much prefer a different biography: "Angel Mo' and Her Son, Roland Hayes", written at the request of Roland Hayes by his friend. That one conveys a more personal feel, and a gestalt of a really special and important person (which Hayes was!) with many beautiful anecdotes.This one is excellent if you want huge amounts of details, but seems more about exposing Hayes's earthly flaws than about conveying his divine contributions.

My interest in Roland Hayes has spanned decades and I thought I knew pretty much everything about him. However, after having read this juicy and well researched biography I was surprised to discover aspects of his history and personality of which I never knew.I want to thank the authors for this long overdue book and I urge all classical music lovers to buy a copy ASAP!

This wonderful book is long overdue! It is a very interesting read about an amazing man, who forged his own way into a stellar career. It is unfortunate that not enough of us know about his life and work. This book will take care of that. A lot of research and love went into the writing of it. Enjoy!

Striving, dignity and developing talent from the church house to the concert hall. Roland Hayes lived artistic daring boldness and accomplishment.

I love it when I can discover the life of a remarkable person. As a singer and music lover this book beautifully presents the story of a mostly unknown talent (at least to me) that could not be suppressed, even by racism. I wish more young people of color would read more about their amazing ancestors. It's a fantastic read, I can barely put it down.