“Dangerous Rhythms: Jazz and the Underworld” by T.J. English A Compelling Tale of Music, Crime, and the Shadows Where They Meet

Explore the Sultry Sounds and Sinister Secrets of “Dangerous Rhythms: Jazz and the Underworld” by T.J. English

From the jumpin' sounds of jass in New Orleans in the 1920s to the smoky jazz clubs of Harlem with the neon-lit streets of the 1940s, T.J. English unveils a gripping narrative that intertwines the seductive melodies of jazz with the dark underbelly of organized crime in his latest book, “Dangerous Rhythms: Jazz and the Underworld.” Released to critical acclaim, this riveting exploration of music and crime is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of art and underworld intrigue.

“Dangerous Rhythms” takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the heyday of jazz, a time when swing ruled the airwaves and the city pulsed with the energy of creativity and vice. With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, English paints a vivid portrait of the musicians, mobsters, and hustlers who inhabited this vibrant world, from the legendary jazz legends to the shadowy figures who lurked in the alleys and backrooms.

But what sets “Dangerous Rhythms” apart is its exploration of the symbiotic relationship between jazz and the underworld. English delves into the stories of musicians who found themselves drawn into a world of crime, whether through coercion, temptation, or sheer necessity. From the speakeasies of Prohibition-era Chicago to the jazz clubs of Harlem’s Cotton Club, he uncovers the hidden connections between music and illicit activities, revealing a web of intrigue that shaped the course of American history. Dangerous Rhythms tells the symbiotic story of jazz and the underworld: a relationship fostered in some of 20th century America’s most notorious vice districts. For the first half of the century, mobsters and musicians enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership. By offering artists like Louis Armstrong, Earl “Fatha” Hines, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington, Louis Prima, Billie Holiday, Cab Calloway, Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald and many more a stage, the mob, including major players Al Capone, Meyer Lansky, and Charlie “Lucky” Luciano, provided opportunities that would not otherwise have existed.

At its heart, “Dangerous Rhythms” is a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the pursuit of dreams in a world where danger lurks around every corner. English’s narrative unfolds like a noir thriller, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the treacherous waters of jazz’s underworld. With its evocative prose and compelling characters, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who ventures into its pages.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey into the heart of jazz’s darkest secrets, pick up a copy of “Dangerous Rhythms: Jazz and the Underworld” today. With its blend of history, mystery, and music, it’s a captivating read that will keep you enthralled from beginning to end.

T.J. English is a New York City noted journalist, screenwriter, and author of the New York Times bestsellers Havana Nocturne, Paddy Whacked, The Savage City, and Where the Bodies Were Buried. He also authored The Westies, a national bestseller, Born to Kill, which was nominated for an Edgar Award, and The Corporation. His journalism has appeared in Esquire, Playboy, and New York magazine, among other publications. His screenwriting credits include episodes for the television dramas NYPD Blue and Homicide, for which he was awarded the Humanitas Prize.