Harriet J. Ottenheimer spent fifteen years listening to and recording the stories told by Pleasant "Cousin Joe" Joseph, noted New Orleans bluesman. His colorful portrayals of the characters who parade through his life document more than seventy years of changing relationships between blacks and whites. In his own words, Cousin Joe describes growing up in Louisiana, working a rice plantation, and how gospel music put him on a career path. His candid remarks underscore the economic struggles prevalent in a musician's life, and the resulting narrative is an authentic and moving portrait of a true American original.

Within the tales of gigs, card games, and romantic exploits are intimate glimpses of legendary figures, including Billie Holiday and Muddy Waters. His descriptions of performing in New Orleans, New York, and Europe are especially revealing, providing valuable insights into the relationships between the New Orleans blues scene and the development of jazz, the pop entertainment world in general, and Afro-American culture in the last century.

Pleasant "Cousin Joe" Joseph was born in Wallace, Louisiana, just outside of New Orleans in 1907. He was a self-taught musician who got his start in gospel singing. His album Bad Luck Blues was named 1972 Blues Album of the Year in France. He died in New Orleans in 1989.

Harriet J. Ottenheimer is emerita professor of anthropology and American ethnic studies for Kansas State University, with a focus on writing and research.