Book description
American pop music is arguably this country's greatest cultural contribution to the world, and its singular voice and virtuosity were created by a shining thread of Black women geniuses stretching back to the country's founding. This is their surprising, heartbreaking, soaring story--from "one of the generation's greatest, most insightful, most nuanced writers in pop culture" (Shea Serrano) "Sparkling . . . the overdue singing of a Black girl's song, with perfect pitch . . . delicious to read."--Oprah DailyONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: San Francisco Chronicle, NPR, The Root, Variety, Esquire, The Guardian, Newsweek, Pitchfork, She Reads, Publishers Weekly SHORTLISTED FOR THE PORCHLIGHT BUSINESS BOOK AWARD A weave of biography, criticism, and memoir, Shine Bright is Danyel Smith's intimate history of Black women's music as the foundational story of American pop. Smith has been writing this history for more than five years. But as a music fan, and then as an essayist, editor (Vibe, Billboard), and podcast host (Black Girl Songbook), she has been living this history since she was a latchkey kid listening to "Midnight Train to Georgia" on the family stereo. Smith's detailed narrative begins with Phillis Wheatley, an enslaved woman who sang her poems, and continues through the stories of Mahalia Jackson, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, and Mariah Carey, as well as the under-considered careers of Marilyn McCoo, Deniece Williams, and Jody Watley. Shine Bright is an overdue paean to musical masters whose true stories and genius have been hidden in plain sight--and the book Danyel Smith was born to write.
Accidental Genius
I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. I'm grateful for this app β it's made reading a part of my everyday life. This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening.
Sand Whiskers
I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. πΌ Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! π»π π§ Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly β this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. ππ A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Gas Man
πββοΈπ Combining exercise and exploration β audiobooks make my runs more exciting! πββοΈπ§ ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a major convenience during road trips. The variety of supported formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from different sources hassle-free. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
Cardinal Rebel
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for enjoying clear audio in any environment. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear and distraction-free listening. ListenBook has enriched my life with a world of captivating stories and knowledge. It's not just an app; it's a portal to endless possibilities. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Elder Pogue
ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length β I'm in! The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique feature that adds a personalized touch to the listening experience. ListenBook is a game-changer for audiobook lovers. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Purity
πͺ Flexing my reading muscles with this app's easy-to-use controls β I'm devouring books while managing my busy schedule. πΌπ Finally, an app that handles all my audiobook formats effortlessly. ListenBook is a must-have! One of the best audiobooks Iβve heard! The story was compelling, and the narratorβs delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
QuestWeaver
This app has turned my household chores into moments of intellectual growth. I can't get enough of this app's versatile features β from playback speed to bookmarking, it's all there. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. The range of supported formats is astounding. No more compatibility issues! ListenBook has enriched my life with a world of captivating stories and knowledge. It's not just an app; it's a portal to endless possibilities.
Spooky Electric
π This app has ignited my passion for reading β I can't get enough of its convenience! ππ₯ πΌ Workday blues? Not anymore β this app turns my office hours into reading time! π»π As an audiobook aficionado, this app is a dream come true. Its support for various formats and effortless navigation make it my perfect reading companion. ππ§
Killah Goose
I'm amazed at how this app has made reading such a natural part of my day. πΌ Balancing responsibilities with relaxation β audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. π»π ListenBook has become my workout companion. It keeps me engaged and entertained during exercise.
Mother Hen
Noise reduction on ListenBook enhances the clarity of dictaphone recordings, allowing me to enjoy content even in noisy environments. Audiobooks on this app have made my morning rituals something to look forward to. This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings. Flawless support for various audio formats. Highly satisfied.
Devil Chick
This app's user-friendly design makes navigating through books a breeze. No more hassle with converting files β ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily routines and activities. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you! The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Boost Princess
With ListenBook, I can keep track of my audiobook consumption and explore new content with ease. I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off.
Emerald Goddess
Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use. ListenBook has united my love for audiobooks with my passion for learning. What a brilliant app!
B@d B0y
As a language enthusiast, this app has been a fantastic tool for learning new languages. ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats means I can listen to all my favorite content without worries. Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams!
Mauve Cactus
ListenBook's commitment to delivering an exceptional audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design. ListenBook has revolutionized my audio experience, making it both personalized and engaging. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to introduce others to the joys of audiobook storytelling. Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment enhance the listening experience significantly. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off.
Trash Pocky
This app makes traffic jams a breeze β time flies by while I'm engrossed in a story. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. This app has added a new layer of enjoyment to my downtime β I'm truly grateful. Highly engaging! The combination of a well-written story and skilled narration made this audiobook hard to pause. I finished it much faster than I expected because I just couldnβt stop listening.
Easy Sweep
Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off. I love the ability to import books from my computer. Itβs so easy. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Cuff Queen
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my own audio content with unparalleled ease and comfort. π Rekindling my literary flame β this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. ππ I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. ππ« Bookmarks are a fantastic tool for keeping track of important moments. They're a game-changer. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature.
Leaf Assassin
ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. I'm blown away by the powerful audio downloading options. So versatile! Looping playback helps me retain knowledge from audiobooks effectively. It's an invaluable tool. Auto-rewind feature is very useful. Excellent app!
Poppy Coffee
π Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! π±π Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient. The app is perfect for people who love to read but donβt have the time.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience