''Robert L. Stone knows sacred steel music in a most profound way. He has amassed an incredible archive of photos, interviews, and recordings related to this remarkable musical culture. This book will appeal to those interested in not just sacred steel but the history of the steel guitar, gospel, blues, and American roots music in general.'' Craig Morrison, ethnomusicologist and author of Go Cat Go! Rockabilly Music and Its Makers ''A pioneering work on the emergence, development, and current status of a vital but long overlooked tradition. Students of African American music, folklore, and ethnomusicology will find Sacred Steel both enlightening and engaging.'' Scott Barretta, music historian and former editor of Living Blues magazine