Music trails in eastern N.C.

The newest culture trail from the North Carolina Arts Council springs from the rich sounds rooted in eight counties east of Raleigh. Jazz, blues, R&B, funk, gospel and hip-hop ring out on the 17-track CD that accompanies a new book, “African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina.” The travel guide journeys to music venues, events and museums to illuminate the musicians’ lives and reveal the deep ties between music and community.

Interviews with more than 90 artists reveal a world of music, especially jazz, rhythm and blues, funk, gospel and church music, blues, rap, marching band music and beach music. Late great artists such as Thelonius Monk and Dr. Billy Taylor as well as modern musicians link past and present with amazing stories. New and historical photographs enliven the narrative, and maps and travel information for the counties of Edgecombe, Greene, Jones, Wayne, Lenoir, Nash, Pitt and Wilson help you plan your trips.

The best starting points are the website page (ncarts.org/experience-the-arts) and the book, written by Sarah Bryan and Beverly Patterson with Michelle Lanier. Published by UNC Press, it can be ordered at uncpress.unc.edu or by calling (800) 848-6224.