The book "Religious Folk Songs of the Southern Negro" by Howard Washington Odum is a unique collection of spiritual songs sung by Southern African Americans. In this work, the author examines the meaning and functions of religious songs in the culture and life of the African-American community of the US South. He attempted to trace the evolution and influence of these songs on the state of African American culture. The book reproduces the lyrics and provides important explanations and context for each song. "Religious Folk Songs of the Southern Negro" has become a source of valuable information for research in the field of African American music and culture.