Craig Von Buseck - Nobody Knows: The Forgotten Story of One of the Most Influential Figures in American Music

2014 by Craig von Buseck

Published by Baker Books

a division of Baker Publishing Group

P.O. Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

www.bakerbooks.com

Ebook edition created 2014

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any meansfor example, electronic, photocopy, recordingwithout the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4412-4554-0

Scripture used in this book, whether quoted or paraphrased by the characters, is taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

Im thrilled that the historical and important story of the legendary Harry Burleigh is finally being told! That he was for fifty-two years a member and celebrated soloist at the very church I attend here in New York City makes it all the more extraordinary. Hats off to Craig von Buseck for his tremendous research and work!

Eric Metaxas , New York Times bestselling author of Bonhoeffer : Pastor , Martyr , Prophet , Spy and Amazing Grace : William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery

Mr. von Busecks book, Nobody Knows , reads like a good novel, and yet he balances this colorful historical narrative with reliable scholarship. His subject of choice is the great African American legend, singer and songsmith Harry T. Burleigh. Mr. Von Busecks language is warm and accessible. I love being taken by surprise, particularly when being introduced with such clarity to a historical figure of my own country, a pioneering spirit, one of those rare musical types that gave the soul of this nation its voice. Nobody Knows is delightfully readable.

David Teems , author of Majestie : The King Behind the King James Bible and Tyndale : The Man Who Gave God an English Voice

This is an important book for people interested in American music, the Episcopal Church, and African American cultural life. Harry Burleigh was a starhe brought light to a vast number of peoplehis art was shared in Jewish and Christian communities, in New York City, Marthas Vineyard, and so many places. He was a man of deep feeling and ability who shared his gifts in all directions.

Rev . Tom Pike , former rector of St. Georges Episcopal Church
in New York City

We welcome Craig von Busecks new book on Harry T. Burleigh, the great African American musician. Nobody Knows adds a rich chapter to the record of great American composers and musicians.

Vinson Synan , Dean Emeritus, Regent University School
of Divinity; author of The Century of the Holy Spirit

Nobody Knows is an important tribute to a master of the American spiritual. An inspirational story, this work is an important read, as it sheds light on a key composer whose contributions to the history of American music are otherwise neglected.

Afa S . Dworkin , executive director of the Sphinx Organization; member of President Obamas National Arts Policy Committee

I dedicate this book to my children, Aaron, Margo, and especially David, who asked at the age of six, Daddy, how long is Harry T. Burleigh going to live with us? Harrys finally moving out, guys, but I know he will always be in our hearts. Thank you for your never-ending love and encouragement. With much love.