I'd Fight the World: A Political History

of Old Time, Hillbilly and Country Music

REVIEWS

from the back cover: 

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Harry Reid, former Senate majority leader

“I’d Fight the World provides unique insights into the iconic, American-made musical genres of old-time, hillbilly, and country and western. La Chapelle’s book is educational, interesting, and very easy to read. I recommend it without question.”

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Kinky Friedman, independent gubernatorial candidate and author of Heroes of a Texas Childhood

“In I’d Fight the World, La Chapelle explores the turbulent and tawdry connections between country music and politics. Country music, at its best, can be described as the music of the people. My definition of ‘politics’ never changes: poli- means more than one and tics are bloodsucking parasites. La Chapelle takes us on a lively ride through it all.”

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Jocelyn Neal, author of Country Music: A Cultural and Stylistic History

“Thoroughly researched and insightful, I’d Fight the World exposes the political themes embedded in country music of all stripes, as well as the sometimes subtle, sometimes blatant, always shrewd employment of this music by politicians. La Chapelle reveals a political legacy in country music that today’s audiences have an obligation to confront.”

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David Gilbert, author of The Product of Our Souls

“In this well-written and expansive book, La Chapelle narrates a national history of politics and country music, from nineteenth-century populism to post–World War II conservatism. I’d Fight the World demonstrates how both political and cultural history can shine light upon each other, creating a rich tapestry of scholarship.”

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from book reviewers and journalists: