Book Review

The Holy Profane: Religion in Black Popular Music. By Teresa L. Reed. Lexington: University of Kentucky Press, 2003. ISBN 0-8131-2255-4 (cloth) ISBN 0-8131-2255-4 (pbk). Pp. xii, 183. $40.00 (cloth), $25.00 (pbk.)

Teresa L. Reed's book, The Holy Profane: Religion in Black Popular Music, is a cultural study that aims to convey the religious consciousness of the African American community through its secular music, examining the expanse of secular genres from blues to gangsta rap. As her primary methodology, Reed privileges the community's voice through her examination of blues and popular song lyrics. She makes it clear that her intended audience expands beyond the walls of academia to a much broader readership that includes the popular music enthusiast as well as those seeking an introduction to popular forms and artists. Such a refreshing approach is part of the book's appeal.