Josephine Matyas is a full-time travel writer and member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), and The Writers' Union of Canada (TWUC). She has traveled and written extensively for more than twenty years on destinations around the globe. Published writing samples, awards, and background information can be found at www.writerwithoutborders.com.

Craig Jones is a lifer-musician trained in political economy at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. The eclectic mix of music, history, politics, and current affairs is what drives his career in freelance writing, lecturing at the university level, teaching music, and performing regularly with multiple bands and choirs. Craig has a special interest in politics and has produced magazine and newspaper articles and reports on both music and social justice topics.

"In addition to practical information, it provides a fascinating background on history, culture and geography, covering everything from major destinations like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to festivals, signature instrument shops, driving and walking tours, venues and much more." --Blues in Britain

"Josephine and Craig have created the ultimate music aficionado map in The Music Lover's Guide to North America by including all of the major, and even hidden gem locations, for those of us who are the obsessed and even casual music fans. I am ready to hit the trail!" --Tracy Pitcox, Texas Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame

"Music is one of America's greatest gifts to the world. The Music Lover's Guide to North America is Jo and Craig's latest gift to the American traveler. A comprehensive guide to American music, the museums dedicated to preserving its legacy, and the talented musicians who continue to entertain us. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, this is a guide that should always travel with you!" --Webster Franklin, Tunica Convention & Visitors Bureau

"After a rockin' crash course on America's musical (r)evolution, The Music Lover's Guide hits the road-planning your next vacation. Or three. From the Hank Williams and B. B. King museums to Muddy Waters' cabin and John Coltrane's saxophone. From country music's "Big Bang" to the blues "Crossroads." Only the word Essential is lacking in the book title." --Roger Stolle, Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art and blues author

"The Music Lover's Guide to North America captures the essence of blues music, the legends, and the places that shaped a genre. Perfect for music lovers and adventurers alike, it's an indispensable guide to discovering the rich stories and vibrant culture of the blues." --Dr. Robert Nelson, National Blues Museum

"The Music Lover's Guide to North America is an excellent resource for those looking for music during their travels...museums, honky-tonks, and much more!" --Angela Smith, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum

"What a pleasure to travel the historic highways and bluesy back roads of our vast and humming landscape with this info-packed, adventure-seeking book as a companion. Be sure to take it along on your next musical road trip." --Steven Jenkins, Bob Dylan Center

"Music weaves its way through the tapestry of our shared history, and it has and always will be one of greatest communicators of all of the world's cultures. As a musician, music enthusiast, and professional in the museum industry, I am truly glad that this wonderful guide has been created, showcasing the amazing musical heritage found just down the street or thousands of miles away." --Zach Dressel, Earl Scruggs Center

"Jazz and its origins, evolutions, and definitions are complex, but never lacking in soul. This book takes on the task of talking about jazz and blues and keeps the soul without dumbing it down nor making it too complicated or esoteric for the lay person." --David Kunian, New Orleans Jazz Museum

"The authors have compiled a wonderful cultural resource for any music lover or museum enthusiast. Consult this book while planning your next cultural excursion or better yet, take it along on your travels for an impromptu side trip or weekend getaway. The book's format and brief overviews make you want to visit them all to get the most out of this country's rich musical heritage." --Dwight Vaught, Director of the National Music Museum

"Whether you're planning a road trip to visit these legendary sites or simply want to immerse yourself in their history, Music Lover's Guide to North America is a must-read for any fan of American music" --Rodney Hall, President of FAME Recording Studios