A well respected blues historian based in Lancaster, UK. His interests lie in the socio-historical and economic background of blues music (explored via the lyrics), as well as the philosophical/psychological aspects of the blues, and the evolution of the genre in the 19th century.

Max is a part-time tutor with the American Studies Department at Lancaster University, specialising in early blues. He also teaches for the Lancaster Department of Continuing Education and is part of the Creative Arts Team.

“RAILROADIN’ SOME” by Max Haymes http://musicmentor0.tripod.com/

This groundbreaking book, written by one of the foremost blues historians in the UK, is based on over 30 years research, study and absolute passion for early blues music.  It is the first ever comprehensive study of the enormous impact of the railroads on 19th and early 20th Century black American society and the many and varied references to this new phenomenon in early blues lyrics.

Below is a synopsis of the book giving you an insight into the wealth of detail. If you're interested in getting a copy, then please check out Music Mentor Books by clicking the link above.