Biography: arts and entertainment Books

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Book SynopsisThe Who were a mass of contradictions. They brought intellect to rock but were the darlings of punks. They were the quintessential studio act yet were also the greatest live attraction in the world. They perfectly meshed on stage and displayed a complete lack of personal chemistry offstage.Along with great live shows and supreme audio experiences, the Who provided great copy. During the 1960s and ’70s, Pete Townshend, messianic about contemporary popular music and its central importance in the lives of young people, gave sprawling interviews in which he alternately celebrated and deplored what he saw in the “scene.” Several of these interviews have come to be considered classic documents of the age. Roger Daltrey, Keith Moon, and John Entwistle joined in. Even when the Who were non-operational or past their peak, their interviews continued to be compelling: changes in allegiances and social mores left the band members freer to talk about sex, drug-taking, business, and in-fighting.By collecting interviews with Who members from across fi ve decades, conducted by the greatest rock writers of their generation—Barry Miles, Jonathan Cott, Charles Shaar Murray, John Swenson, and Greil Marcus among them—The Who on The Who provides the full, fractious story of a fascinating band.

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Book Synopsis Billy Wilkerson was the most powerful man in Hollywood during the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. He was owner and publisher of the Hollywood Reporter, the film industry newspaper that became known as “Hollywood’s bible,” and he built the CafÉ Trocadero and other legendary nightspots of the Sunset Strip. In thirty years as Tinseltown’s premier behind-the-scenes power broker, Wilkerson introduced Clark Gable and Lana Turner to the world, brought the Mafia to Hollywood, engineered the shakedown of the Hollywood studios by Willie Bioff and his mob-run unions, helped invent Las Vegas, tangled with Bugsy Siegel (and possibly was involved with his murder), touched off the Hollywood blacklist, and conspired to cripple the studio system. Perhaps nobody in Hollywood history has ever ruined so many careers or done so much to reshape the movie industry as Billy Wilkerson, yet there has never been a solid biography of the man. Billy’s son, William R. Wilkerson III, has done tremendous research on his father, interviewing over decades everyone who knew him best, and portrays him beautifully—and damningly—in this book.Trade Review"Scandal at the Dream Factory! Based on unique and original research, Willie Wilkerson's sparkling new book provides devastating insight into the history of organized crime in Hollywood." ROBERT LACEY, historical consultant, The Crown , and author of The Year 1000 , Great Tales from English History , Inside the Kingdom , and Monarch"Willie Wilkerson's biography of his father fascinatingly illuminates the life of one of Hollywood's most important, dashing, but unsavory historical figures. Read it and encounter a storybook raconteurand be transported to a magical time when America's western outposts, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, were turning from orange tree pastures and deserts to the centers of the dark side of American culture." SHEILA WELLER, author of Girls Like Us and Dancing at Ciro's"Billy Wilkerson's lawyer called him a 'desperado'bold and reckless. Willie Wilkerson's poignant telling of his father's story reveals the good, the bad, and the ugly of one of the twentieth century's most influential publishers. Like a Mississippi riverboat captain, Billy Wilkerson held high society in one hand and organized crime in the other. This is a masterfully written must-read for anyone who wants to know the truth about what happened behind the velvet ropes of Hollywood's golden age." B. JAMES GLADSTONE, author of The Man Who Seduced Hollywood"Mr. Wilkerson's fascinating book, with its marvelous anecdotes and pause-giving speculations, reads like the wind." The Wall Street Journal"Payoffs provided a generous living for gangsters like "Handsome Johnny" Rosselli, who with his Chicago allies orchestrated the treaty, with the help of Wilkerson, publisher of The Hollywood Reporter , who provided his own mob contacts as well as friendly press coverage. Wilkerson's son, W.R. Wilkerson III, details this curious alliance in his candid and well researched book, Hollywood Godfather ." -- Deadline

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Book SynopsisThe Clash thought they could change the world. They never did, but they created some of the greatest rock music of all time in the attempt.Clash interviews were mesmerizing. Infused with the messianic spirit of punk, the Clash engaged with the press like no rock group before or since, treating interviews almost as addresses to the nation. Their pronouncements were welcomed but were hardly uncritically reported. The Clash’s back pages are voluminous, crackle with controversy, and constitute a snapshot of a uniquely thoughtful and fractious period in modern history. Included in this compendium are the Clash’s encounters with the most brilliant music writers of their time, including Lester Bangs, Nick Kent, Mikal Gilmore, Chris Salewicz, Charles Shaar Murray, Mick Farren, Kris Needs, and Lenny Kaye.Whether it be their audience with the (mainly) simpatico likes of punk fanzine Sniffin’ Glue, their testy encounters with the correspondents of pious UK weeklies like New Musical Express, Melody Maker, and Sounds, or their friendlier but no less eyebrow-raising conversations with US periodicals like Creem and Rolling Stone, the Clash consistently created copy that lived up to their sobriquet “The Only Band That Matters.”Trade Review" The Clash on The Clash returns to the heady days of '77, and confirms that the only English band that mattered made music, politics, and commerce matter like few others. Sean Egan's excellent collection of interviews ranges from the early days to the aftermath, from the dubious recollections of original guitarist Keith Levene to expanded versions of Egan's own 21st century interviews with the band members. Lester Bangs's 16,000-word love letter to the Clash is a real gem. Guttersnipes rejoice!" Randal Doane, author of Stealing All Transmissions: A Secret History of The Clash"A bright garland of well-selected interviews strung out across the saw-toothed time-line of one of the most truthfulas well as one of the most self-deceptivebands of all time. . . . What you have assembled here is the true and authentic voice of Radio Clash." Mike Laye, Clash photographer"Throughout, Egan's excellent annotations provide context and structure to the interviews and articles. Fans of music from the original punk rock era will enjoy this title." Library Journal

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Book SynopsisIt has been said that the records of singer and actress Julie London were purchased for their provocative, full-color cover photographs as frequently as they were for the music contained in their grooves. During the 1950s and ’60s, her piercing blue eyes, strawberry blonde hair, and shapely figure were used to sell the world an image of cool sexuality.The contrast between image and reality, the public and the private, is at the heart of Julie London’s story. Through years of research; extensive interviews with family, friends, and musical associates; and access to rarely seen or heard archival material, author Michael Owen reveals the impact of her image on the direction of her career and how it influenced the choices she made, including the ultimate decision to walk away from performing.Go Slow follows Julie London’s life and career through its many stages: her transformation from 1940s movie starlet to coolly defiant singer of the classic torch ballad “Cry Me a River” of the ’50s, and her journey from Las Vegas hotel entertainer during the rock ’n’ roll revolution of the ’60s to the no-nonsense nurse of the ’70s hit television series Emergency!Trade Review"Beautifully crafted and stunningly researched, this entertaining biography of Julie London reminds us why she matters, now and for always. It is a great read!" Michael Feinstein, singer" Go Slow offers us a long-awaited, highly detailed look at a neglected jazz and pop singer who has always been worthy of greater recognition and attention. The author provides lots of new information and historical context, while, to his credit, resisting the temptation to make outrageous claims for his subject. I learned a lot that I didn't know and it made me want to hear more." Will Friedwald, author of Stardust Melodies and Sinatra! The Song Is You"Michael Owen tells the unique story of a singular talent and reluctant celebrity with dispassionate appreciation, weaving personal life and professional history into the tale of a woman who was steadfast in her personal passions and career path without the ego and ambition that drives so many other singers and actors. Neither sycophant nor assassin, Owen deftly chronicles Julie London's life with both empathy and objectivity." Michael Cuscuna, record producer, writer, and discographer" Go Slow is a sensitive, informative biography, inviting the reader to discover Julie London's unique and solitary contribution to the history of American music. With an ear for tone and an eye for story, Michael Owen leads us seamlessly through a life fashioned for style, revealing an instinctive range where just enough sound can occupy a space, exploiting every lyrical nuance along the way. As Go Slow discloses, through years of struggle and turmoil, an irony was born that would further distill some of Julie's finest work as an interpreter of popular song. Esteemed jazz vocalists and musicians loved and respected her. A generous spirit to her family and friends, Julie London was one grand dame and there will never be anyone like her. Thanks to Michael Owen, we begin to understand why." Kevin Tighe, actor, Emergency!"An affectionate and complex portrait of London that will help rekindle an interest in her life and work." Kirkus Reviews"The book offers an intimate look at her memorable public career and the sharp contrasts of her private life." Discover Hollywood"Michael Owen has written an interesting book that fans of London or people interested in the popular culture of the 1950s will want to read." All About Jazz"Owen's fascinating, clear-eyed portrait examines her work and looks at her decision to walk away from show business in the '70s, as well as her apparent indifference to her career." The Arizona Republic

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Book SynopsisDouglas Fairbanks was the greatest leading man of his generation—the first and the best of the swashbucklers. He made some of the greatest films of the silent era, including The Thief of Bagdad, Robin Hood, and The Mark of Zorro. With Charlie Chaplin, D. W. Griffith, and his wife, film star Mary Pickford, he founded United Artists. Pickford and Fairbanks ruled Hollywood as its first king and queen for a decade. Now a cache of newly discovered love letters from Fairbanks to Pickford form the centerpiece of the first truly definitive biography of Hollywood's first king, the man who did his own stunts, built his own studio, and formed a company that allowed artists to distribute their own wealth outside the studio system. Fairbanks was fun, witty, engaging, creative, athletic, and a force to be reckoned with. He shaped our idea of the Hollywood hero, and his story, like his movies, is full of passion, bravado, and romance.Trade Review"For years, Fairbanks and Pickford reignedover Hollywood as its first king and queenand, here, in The First King Of Hollywood,weve the first, if not also the weightiest,Fairbanks biography. Acting out his ownstunts, Fairbanks, we learn, helped shape ourenduring concept of the Hollywood Hero.Worth reading for the legacy value alone....5 Stars" Philip Turner and Leslie Waller Screen Trade Magazine"one of the most delightful Hollywood biographies to slide down the mast in years." New York Times Sunday Review"Tracey Goessel's biography of Douglas Fairbanks is impeccably researched and elegantly written. It gives new relevance to one of the seminal figures of 20th century movies and manhood, and at the same time it gives us an amazingly intimate view of the tragic love affair between Fairbanks and Mary Pickford. This is not merely a worthy book, it's a necessary book." Scott Eyman, author of John Wayne: The Life and Legend and Empire of Dreams: The Epic Life of Cecil B. DeMille"Tracey Goessel gives us for the first time the real, three-dimensional man, in all his vibrancy, creativity, and sexiness. Beyond being a mega-star, he was a daring, hands-on producer and industry leader." Cari Beauchamp, historian, journalist, and author of Joseph P. Kennedy Presents: His Hollywood Years

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Book SynopsisWhile the Three Stooges were the longest-active and most productive comedy team in Hollywood, their artistic height coincided with the years Curly was with them, from 1932 to 1946. To their fans, Curly stands out as the zaniest of the three. Famous for his high-pitched voice, his “n’yuk-n’yuk-n’yuk” and “why, soitenly,” and his astonishing athleticism, Curly was a true natural, an untrained actor with a knack for improvisation. Yet for decades, little was known about his personal life. Then, in 1985, Joan Howard Maurer, Curly’s niece, published this definitive biography. When she first set out to write the book, there was almost no biographical information available about Curly. So she spoke at length to his relatives, friends, and colleagues. She amassed a wealth of Curly memorabilia, a mixture of written material and rare photographs of Curly’s family, films, and personal life. In Curly: An Illustrated Biography of the Superstooge, she put it all together to come up with the first and only in-depth look at this crazy comedic genius. She included plenty of intimate details about his astonishing relationship with his mother, his marriages, and his interactions with his daughters and friends. Despite its excellence as a well-rounded portrait of the most unpredictable—and most popular—Stooge, Curly has long been out of print. This new edition of a timeless classic, now updated with previously unpublished facts, is sure to be appreciated by Three Stooges fans new and old.

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Book SynopsisJoni Mitchell is one of the most celebrated artists of the last half-century and her landmark 1971 album ÊBlueÊ is one of her most beloved and revered works. Generations of people have come of age listening to the album inspired by the way it clarified their own difficult emotions. Critics and musicians admire the idiosyncratic virtuosity of its compositions. ÊWill You Take Me as I AmÊ ä the first book about Mitchell to include original interviews with her ä looks at ÊBlueÊ to explore the development of an extraordinary artist the history of songwriting and much more.ÞIn extensive conversations with Mitchell Michelle Mercer heard firsthand about Mitchell's internal and external journeys as she composed the largely autobiographical albums of what Mercer calls her Blue Period which lasted through the mid-1970s. Incorporating biography memoir reportage criticism and interviews into an illuminating narrative Mercer moves beyond the making of an album genre to arrive at a new form of music writing.

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Book SynopsisFOREVER

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Book SynopsisFrom the ashes of Nirvana, Dave Grohl rose as a one-man band with a self-titled album: Foo Fighters. Now, twenty-five years on and with a rock-solid outfit—including Nate Mendel (bass), Taylor Hawkins (drums), Chris Shiflett (guitar), Pat Smear (rhythm guitar), and latest addition Rami Jaffee (keyboards)—the Foo Fighters are reveling in the success of their ninth studio album, Concrete and Gold. Paying homage to the band’s enduring longevity, The Foo Fighters: The Band That Dave Made is a comprehensive look at a career that boasts worldwide sales of more than thirty million albums, ten Grammies, and hit stadium-rock anthems such as "Learn to Fly," "Best of You," and "Everlong." Illustrated throughout and including an album-by-album discography, this handsome biography from acclaimed rock writer Stevie Chick is a fitting tribute to a band born out of "the nicest guy in rock's" single-minded vision and now one of the planet's biggest rock groups.

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Book SynopsisThe movie audience respects talent but revels in charisma, and is always ready to elevate a star who is as much as character off the screen as on it. Ever since he came to the attention of the American public in the 1960s, Jack Nicholson has been the whole package. But who among us really knows the man who smiles that wicked grin from behind the darkest of shades? His generation's Mr. Hollywood, a fixture next to the Los Angeles Lakers bench, is in fact a native New Yorker: the son of a showgirl, born in the city in 1937 and raised largely by his grandmother so that Jack's mum could continue her career as a hoofer. Starting out, he appeared in B movies directed by Roger Corman, then burst through in the counter-culture classic Easy Rider. Immediately, his abilities were recognized in dramas, comedies, anything - and the awards and nominations began to pile up (he's been nominated for a dozen Academy Awards and has won three). Meantime, his rascal's persona and happily loose social life provided another kind of delicious entertainment; he has, down the decades, spent as much of his career in front of still cameras (often LIFE's) as he has on the set. If you want to know Jack, and enjoy his colourful life in all its ever-blazing glory, this latest, lavishly illustrated edition in LIFE's new Icons series is the book for you. LIFE Icons celebrates the larger-than-life figures among us, and none is larger than Jack Nicholson.

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Book SynopsisConductor, chorus director, airplane pilot, educator, activist, mentor, and advocate Margaret Hillis blazed a trail upon which many continue to tread. The first woman to regularly conduct a major symphony orchestra, she was the founder of the Chicago Symphony Chorus and served for thirty-seven years as its first director, winning nine Grammy Awards. In Margaret Hillis: Unsung Pioneer, author Cheryl Frazes Hill—a longtime colleague and associate—examines how Hillis was able to overcome the many challenges she faced, navigating a career in ways relatable not only to musicians but also to women in all professions. Margaret Hillis’s story is one of resilience, determination, and passion for music. Her journey is an inspiration, a portrait of what it takes to succeed at the highest level in any field.

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Book SynopsisOtto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary chronicles the career of Otto Binder, from pulp magazine author to writer of Supergirl, Captain Marvel, and Superman comics. As the originator of the first sentient robot in literature ("I, Robot," published in Amazing Stories in 1939 and predating Isaac Asimov''s collection of the same name), Binder''s effect on science fiction was profound. Within the world of comic books, he created or co-created much of the Superman universe, including Smallville; Krypto, Superboy''s dog; Supergirl; and the villain Braniac. Binder is also credited with writing many of the first "Bizarro" storylines for DC Comics, as well as for being the main writer for the Captain Marvel comics. In later years, Binder expanded from comic books into pure science writing, publishing dozens of books and articles on the subject of satellites and space travel as well as UFOs and extraterrestrial life. Comic book historian Bill Schelly tells the tale of Otto Binder through comic panels, personal letters, and interviews with Binder''s own family and friends. Schelly weaves together Binder''s professional successes and personal tragedies, including the death of Binder''s only daughter and his wife''s struggle with mental illness. A touching and human story, Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary is a biography that is both meticulously researched and beautifully told, keeping alive Binder''s spirit of scientific curiosity and whimsy.

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Book SynopsisAlready one of the biggest pop stars in the world at 25 years old, Ariana Grande is simply unstoppable. From her early career on Broadway, to her star turns on Nickelodeon, to three Billboard #1 albums including 2018’s Sweetener, Grande is a multi-talented international icon, and the best may still be yet to come! Ariana Grande: Break Free is the ultimate tribute to this pop queen and a must-have for Arianators. Including nearly 100 full-color photographs, fans are provided a glimpse into this star’s life as she tours the world and tops the charts. This keepsake also explores Grande’s unbeatable style, far-reaching activism and charity work, and her unique and special relationship with fans.

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Book SynopsisA profound remembrance of an extraordinary life cut short, celebrating Chadwick Boseman’s brilliance on screen as well as his rich existence as a generous friend, family member, and activist. Chadwick Boseman will forever be remembered as a sublime acting talent, infusing films such as Black Panther, 42, and Get on Up with his trademark blend of charisma, vitality, and vulnerability. His path to iconic status started quietly, a late bloomer by Hollywood standards. But Boseman rose to stardom with memorable roles including Jackie Robinson, James Brown, and, of course, King T’Challa, despite facing a private battle against colon cancer. Including dozens of full-color photographs, this commemorative book traces the actor’s early days growing up in South Carolina, his string of impactful and historic movie roles, and the widespread impact of his artistry and unfathomable strength. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to Fight Colorectal Cancer.

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Book SynopsisFew people in recent memory have dedicated themselves as devotedly to the story of twentieth- century American music as Rob Kapilow, the composer, conductor, and host of the hit NPR music radio program, What Makes It Great? Now, in Listening for America, he turns his keen ear to the Great American Songbook, bringing many of our favorite classics to life through the songs and stories of eight of the twentieth century’s most treasured American composers—Kern, Porter, Gershwin, Arlen, Berlin, Rodgers, Bernstein, and Sondheim. Hardly confi ning himself to celebrating what makes these catchy melodies so unforgettable, Kapilow delves deeply into how issues of race, immigration, sexuality, and appropriation intertwine in masterpieces like Show Boat and West Side Story. A book not just about musical theater but about America itself, Listening for America is equally for the devotee, the singer, the music student, or for anyone intrigued by how popular music has shaped the larger culture, and promises to be the ideal gift book for years to come.Trade Review"[An] enlightening study.... Rob Kapilow may be contemporary America’s most passionate evangelist for the quaint discipline known as 'music appreciation'... a winning combination of Leonard Bernstein and Bill Nye the Science Guy, an infectiously enthusiastic explainer of the inner mechanical workings of music.... A nifty companion website for the book includes helpful, easy-to-grasp audible demonstrations and vocals, as does the e-book version. For me at least, this digital crib-sheet was a vital tool for appreciating Kapilow’s arguments.... It is a testament to the depth and catholicity of Kapilow’s knowledge that he can effortlessly compare the sweet-sour takes on love in Rodgers and Hart’s “I Wish I Were in Love Again” with Stephen Sondheim’s “Being Alive.” He writes engagingly of Irving Berlin’s astonishing journey from a Russian village and Manhattan’s Lower East Side to the heights of fame, [and] astutely surveys the radical changes in popular taste in the 1960s and ’70s that dislodged the Broadway musical.... But it is the analysis of the songs that is the meat of the book — and something like its soul as well.... [Kapilow] rewards those patient enough to hold his hand as he walks them through just what makes these songs great." -- Todd S. Purdum, New York Times Book Review"Infectiously readable.... A carefully thought-out act of selection that gives you a starting point for your journey through the Great American Songbook. Who could ask for anything more?" -- Terry Teachout, Wall Street Journal"[Kapilow] recounts the 20th-century history of American popular music in lyrical prose.... [his] melodious writing hums with the vibrant music of American history and American popular culture." -- Publishers Weekly [starred review]"[A] lively and highly informative look at what makes musical show tunes great.... A seamless blend of music, history, and biography." -- Kirkus Reviews"The Great American songbook is a national treasure, and in this engaging and instructive guide, composer, conductor, and music commentator Kapilow unlocks its riches. Sixteen gems by eight American masters of song.... are analyzed and set into historical and cultural context, resulting in a greater appreciation of these American musical masterpieces.... The songs selected for examination make for a musical theater fan’s ultimate playlist.... A treat for music fans and a great addition to any performing arts or popular culture collection." -- Carolyn Mulac, Booklist"Kapilow doesn’t just explore what makes these songs catchy and unforgettable—the author dives into how societal issues like race, immigration, sexuality, and cultural appropriation can intertwine themselves into the greatest theatrical masterpieces." -- Dan Meyer, Playbill.com"Impossible to resist.... [Kapilow’s] insight combined with the ability to share it easily will deepen your knowledge of the best that Broadway has to offer." -- Michael Giltz, broadwaydirect.com"Through the lens of musical theater, Rob Kapilow allows us to experience the unique sound and spirit of a changing America. I came away inspired and ready to write." -- Lynn Ahrens, Tony Award–winning lyricist of Ragtime"Listening for America is an impressive achievement and one of the finest contributions to the annals of musical theater." -- Robert Kimball, editor of The Complete Lyrics of Cole Porter" Praise for Rob Kapilow: Rob Kapilow leaps into the void dividing music analysis from appreciation and fills it with exhilarating details and sensations." -- New York Times"A wonderful guy who brings music alive!" -- Katie Couric"It’s a cheering thought that this kind of missionary enterprise did not pass from this earth with Leonard Bernstein. Robert Kapilow is awfully good at what he does. We need him." -- Boston Globe

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Book SynopsisDuring her decades-long career in film, author Katherine Ann Wilson has amassed an amazing collection of movie memorabilia from 50 different major motion pictures. There are close to 500 photographs of these artifacts, from wardrobe sketches to call sheets, and some rather encyclopedic items like images of crew badges and set cranes. Katherine has been a mentor for film students as well—starting them as gofers, teaching them set etiquette, then taking them all the way through screenplay, set design, camera composition, auditioning, editing, soundtrack composition, copyright, marketing, premieres, film festivals, and world-wide distribution. More than a resource for film mentors like Katherine, this book answers the most unanswered question: How did you get into the movie business? For readers wanting to know how to stay in it, and how to succeed in it, Katherine delves into the art of filmmaking and her personal experiences.

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Book SynopsisA high school dropout at 15, and deported from Canada at 17, John Barbour is recognized as "the godfather of reality TV" for his role as the creator, producer, co-host, and writer of the trendsetting hit Real People. He won the first of his five Emmys as the original host of AM LA in 1970, where he interviewed controversial anti-war guests like Mohammed Ali, Cesar Chavez, and Jane Fonda. He was the first in America to do film reviews on the news, winning three more consecutive Emmys as KNBC’s Critic-At-Large. He spent ten years as Los Angeles Magazine’s most widely read and quoted critic and early in his career, he made stand-up comedy appearances on The Dean Martin Show, The Tonight Show, and others. In 1992 he wrote and directed the award-winning The Garrison Tapes, which Director Oliver Stone heralded as "the perfect companion piece to my movie, JFK." In 2017 he wrote and directed part two: The American Media and the Second Assassination of President John F. Kennedy, which was applauded as "the definitive film on JFK and the rise of Fake News." In this highly entertaining, deeply informative autobiography, readers will discover what a multifaceted storyteller Barbour is. Trade Review"More than a few months ago I received a copy of 'You're Mother's Not A Virgin' written by John Barbour, a man who I am proud to call a friend. At 700 pages plus, the idea of reading it seemed quite overwhelming...and it sat on my bedside table...taunting me for quite some time. Recently, though, I began to read. And kept reading. And read some more. Until...just 2 1/2 days later when I finished the book. When finished, I couldn't wait to speak with John...and on the phone I told him that even though I laughed out loud (literally) and had shed more than a few tears while reading, I was angry at him. I was angry at him for not writing this book sooner. I would have liked to have read this book thirty years ago...for a number of personal reasons. If ever there was someone who would be completely justified to feel bitter about their circumstances or their lot in life, having been dealt only four cards in a game of five card stud...it would be John Barbour. Yet, I have never heard one word...not a single utterance from John himself that would suggest that he has ever been a victim of anyone or anything. This is a collection of stories and tales and remembrances...some sad...some funny...all true. Stories about Frank Sinatra, Johnny Carson, Redd Foxx, Lenny Bruce, Jane Fonda, Dean Martin, Lucille Ball, George Burns and many others will have you laughing and leave a smile on your face. But this is more than a collection of fond recollections and witty anecdotes. This is a story of survival. Perseverance. Getting knocked down...but, more importantly, getting back up. And, to paraphrase Polonius...staying true to yourself and believing that you have something of value to offer...even and especially when no one else thinks so. For my friends that are readers, I encourage you to give this one a read." Jeff Arbaugh , Actor and Ownerat Perfect Point, LLC"Your book is an absolute knockout. Thank you for the gift of your Life. Your incredible memories. Your experiences. Your adventures. Your candor. Your talent. Your insight..and your powers of observation. My wife Shelley and I took turns reading it to one another. Our love to you. Mike." Mike Farrell , an American activist, public speaker, actor (best known for his role as Captain B.J. Hunnicutt on the television series M*A*S*H), and producer of Patch Adams starring Robin Williams"As a celebrity journalist in Las Vegas, I have interviewed well over a 100 A-list entertainment and sports figures, politicians, news anchors, business moguls and philanthropists. I also read a lot of books, and am writing one myself, so I know the hard work that goes into creating a captivating story. When I first saw the heft of John's book at over 700 pages, I couldn't imagine the time and energy that went into recalling and retelling one's own life. To be honest, the book sat in a pile for a month. Then one day I picked it up and from page one I was hooked. I read it every spare chance I had. I read it every night before I fell asleep. I've never read a book that made me laugh and cry. Every chapter had me spellbound. Starting with John's difficult childhood in Canada and his great desire to come to America to being deported and managing to come back twice. His career path was filled with lots of rejections, and each time John pulled himself back up and kept going. What a lesson in perseverance, forgiveness for those that did him wrong, and keeping a positive attitude that would have made most people bitter or depressed. Whether in Toronto, London or Hollywood, the stories are spellbinding. I cried when he reunited with his estranged father who deserted the family. I laughed at the exchanges he had with the talented, intellectual, heroic and sometimes controversial guests who appeared on his TV show, including Jane Fonda, Mohammad Ali, Ronald Reagan and Cesar Chavez. It didn't matter who it was, John Barbour was always truthful and true to himself whether he was dealing with Frank Sinatra or the head of the TV network who employed and then fired him. John Barbour is a man with a conscience and a man who stands up for what is right. He is a rarity in this world where many people value money above all else. I am honored to know John Barbour and call him a friend. This book will entertain, inform and inspire you. I couldn't believe that after 700 plus pages, I didn't want it to end. Bravo John for such a daunting undertaking. You told your story of a life well-lived with such amazing detail. It is thoroughly engaging. I wish there were more principled men like you in the world. I have the utmost respect and admiration for you. You have a brilliant mind, a huge and generous heart, and a sincere spirit." Marsala Rypka, Celebrity Scribe"WE LOVED THIS BOOK!! Shelley and I took turns reading this tome to each other, crying and laughing along with every step of John's astonishingly honest, insightful and courageous journey. His breathtaking candor, his outrageous talent, the unfailingly straightforward way he deals with all who cross his path - the stars, the wannabes, the crooks, the hopefuls, the heels, the hopeless, the thieves -- left us charmed and gasping. At first stunned at the cruelty a parent can inflict on a child but quickly inspired by that child's unwillingness to bend, let alone be broken by it, is enough in itself - but not for this guy. His insistent belief that there is something better out there fueled his willingness to go on, and on, in pursuit of his dream. And in realizing that dream, no matter the cost, he lets us know it is possible. Do not miss John Barbour's Your Mother's Not A Virgin! " Shelley Fabares and Mike Farrell

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Book SynopsisHoward Hughes was an industrialist, aviator, and eccentric, but he was also the most important movie producer during the golden age of Hollywood. At a time when filmmaking was tightly controlled and highly formulaic, Hughes used his enormous wealth to challenge the dictates and restrictions that defined the motion picture industry. Tackling subjects that were explicitly forbidden, he pushed the boundaries of onscreen sex and violence. He pioneered production and marketing techniques that were revolutionary, including the multimillion-dollar blockbuster and the promotion of scandal. When Hughes became the first person to completely own a major Hollywood studio, he continued his maverick approach to filmmaking as a mogul. Most importantly, Hughes’s role in the federal government’s antitrust case against the industry led to the collapse of the entire studio system and the transformation of American cinema. Although his contributions are often overlooked, Hughes was instrumental in shaping the motion picture industry that exists today.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Everything there is to Tell; 1 The World’s Most Famous Motion Picture Producer; 2 Forcing Costs Skyward; 3 A Demoralizing Influence; 4 The Picture That Couldn’t Be Stopped; 5 The Finale of the Studio Epoch; 6 Scandal, Malicious Tongue-Wagging and Dirt; 7 In Absolute Charge; Epilogue: The Tabloid Train Wreck Yet to Come; Endnotes; Select Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisIn July of 1969 the Beatles returned to Abbey Road studios; where they had first begun their incredible partnership with producer George Martin; seven years earlier. The band recaptured the magic and camaraderie from the earliest sessions and Abbey Road would go on to top the charts in both the UK and the US. Although the group's January 1969 recordings would eventually be issued on Let It Be in May 1970; Abbey Road would be the last album recorded by the Beatles.

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Book SynopsisThe Beatles Finally Let It Be includes the January 1969 rehearsals and recording sessions; the unreleased "Get Back" albums; "Let It Be" and "Let It Be...Naked;" along with American; British and Canadian perspectives. This volume also includes a detailed breakdown of every song released from those sessions as well as firsthand stories from lucky fans who were there for the Beatles final public performance on the roof of Apple Studios; January 30, 1969.

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Book SynopsisFour lads from a small town called Liverpool changed the face of Rock and Roll—forever. But their story is far more than one of music. It's about having dreams and making them come true. It's about the power of genuine friendship; it's about believing in yourself—and others—and living a life filled with heart, tenacity, and passion. John, Paul, George, and Ringo gave the musical world its Happily Ever After, and for this, a billion fans are eternally grateful. But, maybe even more than that, The Beatles' story is a heartfelt reminder to every one of us that it's not where you start that counts—it's how you finish.

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Book SynopsisIn the introductory pages of my last published book, The Beatles Finally Let It Be, I paraphrased the ending of the James Bond films from the sixties by stating that "The Beatles Album Series Shall Return..." When I wrote those words, I thought I knew what book would be next, but when travel restrictions were imposed due to Covid 19, I needed to work on a book that I could research from home. I quickly determined that there was a lot of information on the Beatles' activities during 1967 and 1968 that was available online. That led me to switch plans and produce a book covering Magical Mystery Tour and Yellow Submarine. As the songs for both projects were recorded after Sgt. Pepper and before The White Album, the pairing seemed quite natural, particularly since the four new Beatles songs appearing on the Yellow Submarine album would have made for a very small book! You will notice that, unlike the first four books published in the Beatles Album Series, the British section precedes the American section. The previous books covered albums that were essentially the same in both countries, so I started with the American records because they were the ones I grew up with and because the United States was the Beatles' biggest market. For this book, I started with England because the Capitol Magical Mystery Tour LP was an expansion of the British EP. When I get around to the remaining books in the series, which will cover the Beatles albums released before 1967, they will also start with the British perspective followed by what went on in America.,

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Book Synopsis“Essential for the aspiring filmmaker,” this is an inspiring, tell-all look at the independent film business from one of the industry’s most passionate supporters (Todd Solondz, director of Welcome to the Dollhouse)Hope for Film captures the rebellious punk spirit of the indie film boom in 1990s New York City and its collapse two decades later to its technology-fueled regeneration and continuing streaming-based evolution. Ted Hope, whose films have garnered 12 Oscar nominations, draws from his own personal experiences working on the early films of Ang Lee, Eddie Burns, Alan Ball, Todd Field, Hal Hartley, Michel Gondry, Nicole Holofcener, and Todd Solondz, as well as his tenures at the San Francisco Film Society, Fandor, and Amazon Studios, taking readers through the decision-making process that brought him the occasional failure as well as much success.Whether navigating negotiations with studio executives over final cuts or clashing with high-powered CAA agents over their clients, Hope offers behind-the-scenes stories from the wild and often heated world of “specialized” cinema--where art and commerce collide. As mediator between these two opposing interests, Hope offers his unique perspective on how to make movies while keeping your integrity intact and how to create a sustainable business enterprise out of that art while staying true to yourself. Against a backdrop of seismic changes in the independent film industry, from corporate co-option to the rise of social media and the streaming giants, Hope for Film provides not only an entertaining and intimate ride through the business of arthouse movies over the last decades, but also hope for its future.“There is nobody in the independent film world quite like Ted Hope. His wisdom and heart shine through every page.” —Ang Lee, Academy Award winning director of Brokeback Mountain

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Book SynopsisDylan can be as evasive and abstruse as he is witty. But in the right moments, he offers candid, revealing commentary about his groundbreaking music and creative process. Dylan on Dylan is an authoritative, chronologically arranged anthology of interviews, speeches, and press conferences, as well as excerpts from nearly a hundred additional Q&As spanning Dylan’s entire career. The material comes from renowned publications like Rolling Stone and from obscure periodicals like Minnesota Daily, a student newspaper at Dylan’s alma mater. Interviewers include some of the top music journalists of our time, such as Robert Love and Mikal Gilmore, as well as musicians like Pete Seeger and Happy Traum.

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Book SynopsisCash on Cash offers unprecedented insight into one of the most significant American cultural figures of the twentieth century. As an interviewee, Cash was an exemplary communicator to an astonishingly broad spectrum of people: always open and articulate, part friend, part spiritual authority, part flawed hero. Throughout a decades-long career, as Cash took risks, embracing new technologies, formats, and attitudes, he cleaved to a simple, core message of unvarnished truth. A comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash interviews and feature stories, some widely published and others never previously transcribed, culled from the 1950s through the early days of the new millennium, Cash on Cash charts a singular evolution. From hardscrabble Arkansas poor boy to rockabilly roustabout; international fame to drug addiction and disgrace; born again Christian to gimlet-eyed chronicler of spiritual darkness; TV and movie star to Nashville reject; redemption to loss and back again, several times.Cash’s story, told in his own words, shines unfiltered light on a journey of archetypal proportions that resonates still.

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Book SynopsisThe first Asian woman in hip-hop, Sophia Chang shares the inspiring story of her career in the music business, working with such acts as The Wu-Tang Clan and A Tribe Called Quest, her path to becoming an entrepreneur, and her candid accounts of marriage, motherhood, aging, desire, marginalization, and martial arts.Fearless and unpredictable, Sophia Chang prevailed in a male-dominated music industry to manage the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B. The daughter of Korean immigrants in predominantly white suburban Vancouver, Chang left for New York City, and soon became a powerful voice in music boardrooms at such record companies as Atlantic, Jive, and Universal Music Group.As an A&R rep, Chang met a Staten Island rapper named Prince Rakeem, now known as the RZA, founder of the Wu-Tang Clan, the most revered and influential rap group in hip-hop history. That union would send her on a transformational odyssey, leading her to a Shaolin monk who would become her partner, an enduring kung fu practice, two children, and a reckoning with what type woman she ultimately wanted to be.For decades, Chang helped remarkably talented men tell their stories. Now, with The Baddest Bitch In The Room, she is ready to tell her own story of marriage, motherhood, aging, desire, marginalization, and martial arts. This is an inspirational debut memoir by a woman of color who has had the audacity to be bold in the pursuit of her passions, despite what anyone—family, society, the dominant culture—have prescribed.

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