The book was praised in 1990 by musicologist Rhodes Spedale in the journal Louisiana History: "There is much to recommend in this biography...the author's depiction of Prima as a bandleader and businessman is illuminating in a factual, historical manner."
Said writer Bill Sweeney in the journal Popular Music : "Boulard is at his best in painting the social, ethnic, and family background to Prima's development in the early decades of the twentieth century."
Keitth Briggs in the monthly Blues Revue lauded the book, noting "Its quality is attested by its being judged worthy enough to win release under its new title in the University of Illinois Press' prestigious Music in American Life series."
Boulard's footnotes, added Sanson, "include references to copious amounts of primary and secondary resources as well as numerous interviews that he conducted as he explored his topic.
"[8] Times-Picayune columnist Angus Lind described the book as a "quick read" that "tells not only in words but in a wonderful collection of artwork the story of the man dubbed 'the Kingfish.
[16] In April 2021 Boulard was the guest of the White House Historical Association as part of a program discussing the life and career of President Franklin Pierce.