Ain′t But a Few of Us

“Who should we read when we need to know how to listen to jazz? These writers are the answer. The variety of their paths to writing and the insights revealed by it demonstrate why black writers’ voices and interventions are needed now as much as ever.” - Shana L. Redmond, Columbia University

"With the conductive virtuosity of Butch Morris, Jenkins . . . assembles an impressive paean to the Black writers who’ve dedicated their lives to capturing in language what jazz musicians conjure in a split second. With more than two dozen thoughtful profiles, this is a fascinating dive into the sociopolitical realities of being a Black writer—in this case, Black writers who love jazz and express that love in vivid prose. . . . A memorable love letter to Black art, Black joy, and the writers who have sought to tell it like it really is." - Kirkus Reviews

"Extremely well guided along, introduced and contextualised by editor Willard Jenkins. . . . Writer after writer in sometimes impassioned and certainly exasperated fashion point out how under-represented African-American writers are on staff at magazines and major publications. They need answers. The discussion, and you would hope a process towards some kind of change, begins here." - Stephen Marlbank

"A modern, fresh collection of interviews. . . . A triumphantly panoramic view of the visceral experience of Black jazz journalists and those who choose to cover the music successfully, by being published widely and regularly throughout their careers." - Jordannah Elizabeth, New York Amsterdam News

"The spectrum of vibrant Black voices in Ain’t But a Few of Us is broad, relaying their experiences in the trenches of the jazz media field—from cub reporters to trailblazers.. . . . The book serves as a testament to the experiences of a rare few, proof-positive that Black writers and editors are not alone." - Ayana Contreras, Downbeat

"To say that this book is an essential read is an understatement. It is essential not only to enjoy the eloquence and grace of the writing, the depth of knowledge, expertise and experience of these writers, but because things must change. Jazz needs more black voices. The world needs more black voices." - Fiona Ross, Kind of Jazz

"For jazz buffs and those interested in American culture, this is a spellbinding read and quite impossible to put down. This is an open invitation for the curious wanting an aural adventure." - Robert Fleming, African American Literature Book Club

"The importance of Willard’s new book Ain’t But A Few of Us cannot be underestimated. A collection of journeys – lived experiences – from the voices of 49 truly inspirational black writers.  It is groundbreaking for many reasons. Groundbreaking because never before has the lack of black jazz journalists been documented. Groundbreaking because never before has such an inspirational collection of writers been given a platform to share their experiences. Willard has given a long overdue platform to incredible voices." - Fiona Ross, Jazz in Europe

"Revelatory, inspiring, passionate, damning and sobering." - Raymond Cummings, The Wire

"Ain't But a Few of Us should be considered required reading for high school and college students, particularly those pursuing careers in music or journalism. . . .  For students, each writer offers a personal history of their lives with shared commonalities in their insights, the importance of inclusion and diversity, and, regardless of barriers and disparities, giving up is never an option." - Ron Scott, New York Amsterdam News