Bob Crawford, bassist for The Avett Brothers, has published his first book, America’s Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick, on March 10. The release coincides with the 25th anniversary of his joining the band in March 2001. The book explores Adams' post-presidency efforts against slavery using accessible, modern language.
Bob Crawford joined Scott and Seth Avett as the bassist for The Avett Brothers in March 2001 while studying jazz guitar at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina. This marked the beginning of a band that would tour extensively and release multiple albums, including a self-titled record in May 2024 and a collaboration with Mike Patton in November 2025.
Crawford's interest in history, nurtured during long tours, led to the book America’s Founding Son. The work focuses on John Quincy Adams after his one-term presidency, highlighting his congressional battles against the expansion of slavery in the 1830s and 1840s. Crawford describes Adams as a bridge between George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing themes of courage and perseverance.
The book originated from a 2023 podcast series, Founding Son: John Quincy’s America, featuring voices like Patrick Warburton as Adams. Crawford aimed for an engaging read under 300 pages, incorporating modern phrases such as 'O.G.' and 'FOMO' to connect with contemporary audiences. 'I’m telling you the story of John Quincy Adams in a way you can best understand it with your 21st century brain,' Crawford said.
Scott Avett praised Crawford's passion for history: 'He has a real love for American history and politics and what it means to be human in America.' Manager Dolphus Ramseur noted Crawford's dedication, likening it to the 10,000 hours invested in his music career.
Crawford, now 54 and living near Durham, North Carolina, hosts history podcasts The Road to Now and American History Hotline. The book tour includes stops in North Carolina, while the band has upcoming shows in South Carolina.
