Sammy Stein has a rich and extensive bibliography about music —particularly jazz— and gender. I have had the honour to be featured in two of her books: Gender Disparity in UK Jazz – A Discussion and In Their Own Words – Interviews With Women In Jazz. Her writing is full of knowledge and sharp insights about the state of the scene and the industry, I highly recommend her work!
Speaking of which, she has recently published a new book, probably her most ambitious in terms of scope so far. It is titled Music Is Your Superpower: How Music Changes Lives, and this is the summary:
Music is more than sound — it is memory, emotion, identity, and connection. It shapes who we are, how we feel, and how we move through the world. In Music Is Your Superpower, acclaimed author and music specialist Sammy Stein explores the extraordinary ways music influences our brains, bodies, relationships, and lives.
Drawing on science, psychology, personal stories, and decades of musical insight, Stein reveals how music supports emotional wellbeing, strengthens memory, enhances learning, and helps us express who we are. From the songs that comfort us to the rhythms that energise us, music becomes a powerful companion through every stage of life.
I already ordered my copy, and I can’t wait to read it. I will tell you about my impressions when I do so. If you want to get a fresh and deep perspective on these fascinating topics, why don’t you join me and get a book for yourself? That way, you will not only have what I am sure is going to be a great read, but you will also be supporting an independent author do what she does best and loves the most.
It is available on Amazon. If you like it, remember to leave a review. That’s the best way to boost its visibility and help more people discover Sammy’s work!
