Musicians, singers, bands and groups Books

Book SynopsisThe ultimate pick-me-up to save you from the nine-to-five heartbreak blues. The Little Guide to Dolly Parton is your bible of devastating Dolly-isms. Yes, that's right, the most iconic and acclaimed female country singer in the history of music is so inventive and brilliant with her clever wisecracks and sage advice that popular culture has crowned her with an -ism after her name. No one else is as worthy. For more than five decades, Dolly has been laying down her own brand of whip-smart wit and wisdom to the world, with many quotes and quips becoming as famous as her lyrical genius, for which she has won too many song writing awards and honours to mention. Stacked to the rafters with more than 150 bite-size bon-mots, one-liners and ripostes – as well profound and sincere observations – The Little Guide to Dolly Parton is your new favourite life companion. 'I never think of myself as a star because, as somebody once said, "A star is nothing but a big ball of gas" – and I don't want to be that.' Reflecting on stardom during an interview with Billboard, 2014. 'I'm proud of my hillbilly, white trash background. To me that keeps you humble; that keeps you good. And it doesn't matter how hard you try to outrun it – if that's who you are, that's who you are. It'll show up once in a while.' Discussing her background, during an interview with Southern Living, 2014. Table of ContentsHello Dolly! • Jolly Dollyisms • Rags to Riches • Hillbilly Heartbreaker • Queen of Country • Living Doll.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn 2015 Chris O'Leary published the first folume of his two-volume exporation, Rebel Rebel, of every song David Jones / David Bowie ever wrote, in chronological order. This is the second volume. Ashes to Ashes covers every single Bowie song, whether it was sung, written, or produced by him, from 1976, when he first recorded with Iggy Pop on "The Idiot," to his last masterpiece "Blackstar," released just days before his death in 2016. Each song is annotated in depth and explored in essays that touch upon the song's creation, production, influences and impact. It hits everything from "Heroes" to the Labyrinth soundtrack, from his 1985 camp duet with Mick Jagger on "Dancing In the Street" to "Where Are We Now," his comeback single in 2013. Along the way we encounter a vast cast of characters, weaving in and out of Bowie's life and his music: Brian Eno, John Cale, Nile Rodgers, Lou Reed, Freddie Mercury, Scott Walker, Marc Bolan, Arcade Fire, John Lennon, Mickey Rourke, Gary Oldman, Iman, Hanif Kureishi, Julien Temple, Giorgio Moroder, Neil Young and many others. And we range across the globe from Bowie's years in divided Berlin to his "exile" years in Switzerland through his final years as a New Yorker, recording within walking distance of his home.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen the classic Deep Purple MKII line-up reformed in 1984 after an eleven year absence, it proved once again that this was the definitive Deep Purple and their reunion tour was a box office bonanza. Sadly by 1989 the friction between Blackmore and Gillan that had led to the spilt first time around did so again and Gillan was fired. With all eyes on the 25th anniversary of the band's 1968 inception, there was huge pressure, both from within and outside the band for Gillan to return to the fold so that the occasion could be celebrated in style. The critics said it wouldn't work — it did. And they said it wouldn't last... well they were certainly right about that! Upon Gillan's return in late 1992 they produced The Battle Rages On... album and then planned to embark on a world tour. However, the American shows were all cancelled, which left just Europe and Japan. Whilst the tensions within the band were greater than ever, Jon Lord went on to say, “the shows were done at an energy level and ability level I’ve rarely seen attained before. I think we played as well as we’ve ever played.” Indeed, for those fortunate to witness the tour most fans shared Lord's opinion. Yet, the divisions between Blackmore and Gillan grew as the tour progressed with Blackmore calling a halt to proceedings before the Japanese leg could begin. In all there would be just thirty-seven shows — the last hurrah of the ultimate Deep Purple line-up. Author Jerry Bloom caught ten of the shows and was privy to some of the shenanigans that went on, making him the ideal person to document the last MKII tour in detail. Along with the comprehensive narrative, this beautifully designed book is crammed full of never before seen photos from the tour. It includes many shots of the band both on stage as well as back stage, in hotels, on aeroplanes and relaxing as the tour wound its way across Europe culminating in Blackmore's last show with the band in Finland on 17th November 1993.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn updated biography of the Korean superstars BTS. After debuting in 2013 with their single album 2 Cool 4 Skool, BTS released their first Korean-language studio album, Dark & Wild, and Japanese-language studio album, Wake Up, in 2014. The group?s second Korean studio album, Wings (2016), was their first to sell one million copies in South Korea. K-Pop sensations BTS are the biggest boy band in the world and the first Korean act to achieve number one albums and singles in the US and UK with their special brand of turbo-charged hip hop and rap. The talented group of rappers, vocalists, and dancers who make up BTS are RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jin, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Their fresh sound has made them the most exciting act to dominate the music charts for years and the highest grossing boy band of all time. In total they have sold more than 40 million albums and made number 1 on iTunes in more than 65 countries. They show no sign of stopping. While they are still creating innovative music, shattering records, and winning awards around the world, their history is still in the making. This is the story so far.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Don't live life worrying about it, just T. Rex the s*** out of it.' - Sylvain Sylvain The New York Dolls were called many things; glam, proto-punk, hard rock, but are probably best understood as a 'dirty rock & roll' band. Combining an aggressively androgynous style with street smart New York attitude and campy humour, the New York Dolls ushered in the era of CBGBs, heroin chic, loud guitars and referential lyrics which gave rise to Patti Smith, The Ramones, Television and many more. Fans of the band range from Guns N' Roses to Morrissey, who organised the reformation of the band when he curated Meltdown festival in 2004. Sylvain Sylvain was there from the start, and this is his story. Taking in his early life in New York, the rise, fall and rise again of the New York Dolls, and all his misadventures between, There's No Bones in Ice Cream is the true story of one of rock's greatest, told in his own authentic voice. 'In any great band it's often The Quiet One who has the best stories. There's No Bones in Ice Cream would be a superb book even if Sylvain worked in a bank. As it is it's one of the best rock biographies ever. Ten out of ten.' - Classic Rock

Read more less

Book SynopsisRonnie Lane's story is that of a working-class kid who started his musical career busking a ukulele at the age of eight. As a young man he signed with legendary manager Don Arden, who paid him in paisley shirts. He then enjoyed a phenomenal 17 consecutive Top 40 singles, womanising and LSD, and fell under the spell of a mystic before joining forces with Rod Stewart. Ronnie was later diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, moved to America, went broke and died far too young. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with friends and family, Caroline and David Stafford unearth the truth and talent of the man behind the music.Trade Review'A spirited and heartfelt account of Ronnie’s amazing life and music’ Charlie Hart, Slim Chance; 'This book captures the man and his incredible musical and personal journey in a celebratory way, but also handles his terribly sad ending sensitively. I raise a glass to both the book and to Plonk and say thank you for both' Mark Baxter, author of Scorcha!

Read more less

Book SynopsisLife's a Gamble is the autobiography of iconic singer-songwriter Pauline Murray. It recounts her journey from a small mining village in northeast England, through to gaining national recognition as the frontwoman of her band, Penetration, and how she became a key member of the punk movement. Emerging onto the punk scene at just 18 years old, inspired by an early encounter with the Sex Pistols, Pauline details how she played alongside the leading bands of the era, navigated the demands of the music industry, conquered the post-punk landscape with the Invisible Girls, opened her own music studios and reformed Penetration in 2001. Highly illustrated with unseen photographs and drawing upon Pauline's teenage diaries, interviews and archive material from her personal collection, this book chronicles the life and work of an authentic creative artist and punk rock legend.Trade Review'A beautifully written down to earth account of growing up in the north of England, discovering punk, and making a career from music. Pauline writes from the heart with no airs or graces. It is a joy to read her long awaited life story and unique perspective of those legendary times and beyond, with plentiful accompanying images. Essential reading!' Gaye Black, The Adverts 'This is a clear-eyed account of Pauline’s creative journey. She never loses her punk vision, and serves as an example to up-and-coming musicians of the resilience and tenacity you need to survive and thrive. You’re with her all the way- I couldn't put it down.' Helen McCallum

Read more less

Book SynopsisSeventy years since the radical music of the 1960s first hit the airwaves, the anthems of the era continue to resonate with our current times. Through studying these musicians and the political contexts in which their pioneering songs were birthed; amidst paranoia, psychedelic delusions, desire and civil unrest; Aaron Leonard’s Whole World in an Uproar is an important new critical history of countercultural music from the Summer of Love to the unwelcome arrival of Bob Dylan.Trade Review"What happened when HUAC, the FBI, Jim Crow, corporate media outlets, drug warriors, the religious right, and even the Old Left tried to stop a freight train? Drawing on a broad range of sources, including FBI files, Whole World in an Uproar recounts that momentous story.""Aaron Leonard integrates an amazing amount of research into a story that ranges from FBI surveillance of the Old Left to the rock scene to the social dissension around the anti-Vietnam War and Black liberation movements. A well-thought through, fascinating documentary about movements and people who were affected by oppressive societal actions.""A fascinating counter-history of the 1960s music revolution through the eyes of the persecutors, paranoiacs and culture warriors who tried to stop it."

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Damned are forever in the history books as the first UK punk band to get an album out. Damned Damned Damned was a flamethrower of a record, led by the incendiary violence of “New Rose” (first UK punk single as well) and “Neat Neat Neat,” two shocking punk anthems that defined the golden era of the new wave more purely pogo-mad than anything outta The Clash or the Sex Pistols. And the mayhem never let up, with the band already breaking up and reforming (another first!) by 1979 for one of the greatest punk albums of all time, Machine Gun Etiquette (by the way, The Damned were also the first UK punk band to tour America). More punch-ups and gratuitous vandalism ensued as the band expanded its palette through the years. Popoff has wanted to write Lively Arts: The Damned Deconstructed for decades, and now that it’s finished, he’s been all over video and radio calling it his favourite and best book he’s ever done. For in it, Popoff got to analyse monastically — headphones and repeat button at the ready — every damned Damned song across all the albums and every EP and single. This herculean task represented a joy of an exercise from a penmanship point of view, but it was most satisfying in a proselytizing sense — Martin wants everybody joining him in poring over The Damned catalogue in minute detail. Let this long-suffering band of scrapping, scratching cats in a sack know how important and beloved they are before they’re all dead!

Read more less

Book SynopsisPete Brown is a lot of things. A major songwriting talent who was responsible for Cream's classic musical moments, important collaborations with Jack Bruce and such notable experiments in jazz and rock as The Battered Ornaments, Graham Bond and countless progressive music groups. A talented poet who helped pioneer the emerging UK Beat scene in the sixties, making history with his earliest performances and going poetic toe to toe with the likes of Allen Ginsberg, Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Gregory Corso. He was also a child of war and the memories of The Blitz are still with him to this day. He is an anarchist at heart who believes in the mantra of telling it like it is and has done as much through the decades of a songwriter, musician, producer and poet. Within certain circles Pete Brown is a legend, a creative force of nature who is constantly on the move to the next big thing. To much of the world, Pete Brown is an unknown quantity, known for his Cream fame and not much else. With this book, Pete Brown: The Poet Who Rocks, the creative whirlwind will be on full display. This is Pete Brown. Now his story can be told.

Read more less

Book Synopsis*Includes an exclusive new chapter*'Excellent' Guardian'Hugely enjoyable' Irish Times'Dazzling' LRB 'Fascinating' New Statesman 'An absolute must-read' GQAn NME and BBC Culture Book of the Year 2020For a while, Sweet Dreams were made of this.From the testimony of the people who lived it, comes Dylan Jones' masterful history of the Blitz kids, synth-pop and the style press, from 1975 to 1985. 'Few music scenes have received more opprobrium than the New Romantics. A bunch of fame-grabbing clothes-horses? Certainly. But also, a progressive force that opened new routes for music while embracing most genders, ethnicities and sexual preferences.' MOJO 'Compelling reading for those who lived and breathed the indulgence of the era without realising its signific

Read more less

Book SynopsisImportant insight into the work of a truly great songwriter.Updated to include the albums Western Stars and Letter To You and packed full of insightful stories from Springsteen's long career, Bruce Springsteen: The Stories Behind the Songs takes a detailed look at each and every one of his tracks, providing a unique look at this rock legend's method, as well as some of the many anecdotes and tales that are prolific in his long music history.The legend of Bruce Springsteen may well outlast rock 'n' roll itself. And for all the muscle and magic of his life-shaking concerts with the E Street Band, it comes down to the songs – music that helped define the best version of the United States for itself and the rest of the world; that bridged the gap between Bob Dylan and James Brown, between Phil Spector and Hank Williams; and that somehow managed to make New Jersey seem like a promised land. Deeply researched, laced with insight from decades of fandom and original reporting, this book is an exhaustive and unique look at the writing, recording and significance of Springsteen's singular catalog of songs – the first book to cover every officially released track, from hits to obscurities, from 1974's Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J. to 2014's High Hopes.Table of ContentsBruce Springsteen: The Stories Behind the Songs looks at every song that Springsteen performed on his albums, from 1973's Greetings From Asbury Park N.J., to 2020's Letter To You. Each album is discussed and then each song is examined in terms of lyrical meaning, placing in historical context where necessary or relevant.

Read more less

Book SynopsisKnown the world over for her unique musical style, distinctive look and a voice that propelled her into the charts time and time again, Dusty Springfield was undoubtedly one of the biggest and brightest musical stars of the twentieth century.Never one to be shy of the spotlight, Dusty broke the mould as the first female entertainer to publicly admit she was bisexual, and was famously deported from South Africa for refusing to play to segregated audiences during apartheid in 1964, just a year after the launch of her solo career.Combining brand-new material, meticulous research and frank interviews with friends, lovers, employees and confidants, journalist Karen Bartlett reveals sensational new details about the soul diva's unconventional upbringing, tumultuous relationships and unbridled addictions, including a lifelong struggle to come to terms with her sexuality.Named one of the Sunday Times's best musical biographies of 2014, this is the intimate portrait of an immensely complicated and talented woman - the definitive account of one of music's most legendary figures.Trade ReviewKaren Bartlett's biography sends you back to the music - to the extraordinary, dusky vulnerability of her voice. The Daily Telegraph It's an incredibly sad story but Bartlett gets the balance right, celebrating a talent with few equals. MOJO Bartlett spins the tale adroitly; never surrendering to the impulse to sensationalise... the author's chief concern is to locate the shy frightened woman behind the iconic exterior. Irish Independent A well-researched and revealing biography - Those last few years, however, make for a heartbreaking read, but [are] handled sympathetically and without sensationalism. Record Collector Dusty is a fascinating read, desperately sad and painful though it is to discover its heroine's Californian dark night of the soul. The Tablet

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Biographic series presents an entirely new way of looking at the lives of the world's greatest thinkers and creatives. It takes the 50 defining facts, dates, thoughts, habits and achievements of each subject, and uses infographics to convey all of them in vivid snapshots. Each Biographic title is designed to be as entertaining as it is informative. Timelines not only pinpoint significant dates, but set them in the context and culture of their times. Dynamic maps locate biographical events alongside other points of interest. Character traits are illuminated by visual comparisons. Many people know that Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970) was a pioneering guitarist and songwriter whose electric playing and performances were at the heart of Sixties pop culture. What, perhaps, they don't know is that he trained as a paratrooper in the US Army; that his first guitar cost only $5, while the guitar he set light to at the Monterey Pop Festival later sold for $380,000; that the Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded only 3 studio albums; and that he is one of many rock stars to have died at the age of 27. Biographic: Hendrix presents an instant impression of his life, work and fame, with an array of irresistible facts and figures converted into infographics to reveal the artist behind the music.

Read more less

Book Synopsis‘Williams’s memoir is as flinty, earthy  and plain-spoken as her songs’  New York Times ‘The often hilarious, occasionally harrowing Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You is a bracingly candid chronicle of a sui generis character plotting a ramshackle but ultimately  triumphant trajectory’  Wall Street Journal ‘An engaging read and beautifully written’ MOJO The beloved and iconic singer-songwriter and three-time Grammy winner opens up about her traumatic childhood in the Deep South, her years of being overlooked in the music industry, and the stories that inspired her enduring songs.  Lucinda Williams’s rise to fame was anything but easy. Raised in a working-class family in the Deep South, she moved from town to town each time her father—a poet, a textbook salesman, a professor, a lover of parties—got a new job, totalling twelve different places by the time she was 18. Her mother suffered from severe mental illness and was in and out of hospitals. And when Williams was about a year old she had to have an emergency tracheotomy—an inauspicious start for a singing career.   But she was also born a fighter, and she would develop a voice that has captivated millions.   Lucinda Williams takes readers through the events that shaped her music—from performing for family friends in her living room to singing at local high schools and colleges, to recording her first album and headlining a sold-out show at Radio City Music Hall. She reveals the inspirations for her unforgettable lyrics, including the doomed love affairs with ‘poets on motorcycles’, and the gothic Southern landscapes of the many different towns of her youth. Williams spent years working at health food stores and record stores during the day so she could play her music at night, and faced record companies who told her that her music was ‘too unfinished’, ‘too country for rock and too rock for country’, and criticism that she didn’t have the right voice for radio or TV. But her fighting spirit persevered, leading to a hard-won success that spans 17 Grammy nominations and a legacy as one of the greatest and most influential songwriters of our time.  Raw, intimate and honest, Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You is an evocative reflection on an extraordinary woman’s life journey.  Trade Review‘Don’t Tell Anybody The Secrets I Told You sees the full flowering of the prose writer her lyrics always hinted at. There’s a remarkable honesty to it. At times it is painful…and occasionally hilarious... But always determined and defiant’ * Uncut Magazine *‘An engaging read, it’s as “unsugar-coated” as she said…And it’s beautifully written’ -- Sylvie Simmons * MOJO *'Deeply personal' * New York Times *'Raw and honest, this must-read account soars on the back of Williams’s hard-won wisdom about making art and overcoming struggle. Fans and non-fans will be rapt' * Publishers Weekly *'Honest and raw, this book serves a slice of an inspiring life that reminds readers to keep trying' * Library Journal *‘What elevates Don’t Tell Anybody The Secrets I Told You above the typical musical biography is that she very much does tell us the secrets. It’s her back story, her life experiences, and the way these events interwind with her songwriting, that really brings this book to life' * Louder Than War *'Remarkable… Reading like it was written on a series of cocktail napkins in the absolutely best way, this ever-quotable memoir of a born songsmith has something to offer nearly any grownup who has listened to music for the last half-century' * Booklist *Revealing…a poignant, plainspoken life story from a dedicated musician' * Kirkus Reviews *‘This tough, tender autobiography details Williams' often heart-breaking inspiration for her greatest songs' * Uncut *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA behind-the-scenes, in-depth look at the making of one of the greatest sonic masterpieces and most commercially successful albums of all time.Over three decades after its release, Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon' remains one of the most acclaimed albums of all time. Its sales total around 30 million copies worldwide. In its first run, it took up residence in the US charts for a mind-boggling 724 weeks. According to recent estimates, one in five British households owns a copy.This, however, is only a fraction of the story. Dark Side' is rock's most fully realised and elegant concept album, based on themes of madness, anxiety and alienation that were rooted in the band's history and particularly in the tragic tale of their one time leader Syd Barrett.Drawing on original interviews with bass guitarist and chief songwriter Roger Waters, guitarist David Gilmour, and the album's supporting cast ,The Dark Side of the Moon' is a must-have for the millions of devoted fans who desire tTrade ReviewPraise for ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’: ‘A fascinating read.’ Observer 'John Harris's account of the making of the Floyd's 35 million-selling concept album, "The Dark Side of the Moon", has come along at just the right time … Harris's book is good enough to make me want to sit down and, for the first time, give "The Dark Side of the Moon" a proper, prejudice-free listen.' New Statesman ‘[A] clear-sighted examination of Floyd’s famous epic … Harris’ admirably concise study sidesteps the usual mythologising to provide a detailed and coherent retelling of how “The Dark Side” … came into being. ****’ Q Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisA biography of the influential jazz pianist, Bill Evans. Peter Pettinger, himself a concert pianist, describes Evans's life, his personal tragedies and commercial successes, his music making, his technique and compositional methods, his approach to ensemble playing, and his legacy.Trade Review"Pettinger understands what sets the pianist apart, and explains with a minimum of technical language and just enough musical transcriptions to get his key points across. . . This is an ideal companion for those who want to 'understand' Evans in the most important way, through listening."—Bob Blumenthal, Boston Globe"Peter Pettinger writes frankly in his fine new biography of what was no secret to Evans's appalled colleagues: The most influential jazz pianist of the past half-century was addicted to drugs—first heroin, then cocaine—for much of his adult life."—Terry Teachout, New York Times Book Review"[A] fine new biography . . . packed with . . . shrewd critical commentary."—Terry Teachout, New York Times Book Review"Peter Pettinger sets out to catalog and explain Evans’ wide-ranging genius. . . . The making of every important Evans recording is discussed, and as he follows the extreme ups and downs of a career vexed by heroin addiction and other problems, Pettinger shows how the personal helped shape the artistic sensibility of this jazz innovator."—Tom Moon, Philadelphia Inquirer"Pettinger . . . has thoroughly researched Evans’s life, reading the available literature and tracking down the pianist’s associates for commentary, and he has listened assiduously to the Evans catalog, which is no small feat given its enormousness."—Adam Bresnick, Wall Street Journal"Pettinger provides a portrait of Evans that will serve as a foundation for further investigation of this quiet jazz giant. Recommended for jazz fans and music buffs."—Library Journal"Pettinger is eminently qualified to assay Evan’s evolution as a pianist, and students of Evan’s music will no doubt enjoy the author’s references to Evan’s scores and academic excursions."—Publishers Weekly"A fine new biography. . . . Pettinger, a concert pianist, is brilliant in describing, with a technical precision which is nonetheless accessible to the non-musician, what Evans was up to. Its a good read."—S.D. Feeney, Face Magazine"Pettinger's book is a reliable guide, but its chief asset is the late author's insight and enthusiasm for a unique performer."—Brian Priestly, Piano"One of the great perfectionists of jazz has been given a biography worthy of gifts."—Michael Kerrigan, The ScotsmanSelected as a 1998 Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times Book ReviewWinner of the 1999 ASCAP–Deems Taylor Award in the Pop Books Category"Peter Pettinger’s book on pianist Bill Evans is one of the best jazz biographies I have ever read. It is beautifully and lovingly written, meticulously researched, and filled with deep insight into Evans’s personality and musicmaking."—Barry Kernfeld, author of What to Listen for in Jazz"This book is likely to become a classic. There is nothing quite like it in the history of jazz. A concert pianist looks at the work of a jazz pianist whom many authorities consider one of the greatest musicians of the twentieth century. Pettinger hears all sorts of subtleties as only a fellow pianist can. He is also a felicitous and interesting writer. This is a brilliant piece of extended analysis."—Gene Lees

Read more less

Book SynopsisA ROUGH TRADE BOOK OF THE YEAR"To flip through the book is to be immersed back in the glory days of Cool Britannia... and it's just as cool as you remember"GQRemember Britpop and the '90s through hundreds of its most striking images - with many seen here for the very first time. Taken by renowned photographer Kevin Cummins, chief photographer at the NME for more than a decade, the images in this book explore the rise and fall of Cool Britannia and all that came with it.Nostalgic, anarchic and featuring contributions from icons of the Britpop era including Noel Gallagher and Brett Anderson, While We Were Getting High is a seminal portrait of a decade like no other.Artists featured include:OasisBlurSuedePulpElasticaSupergrassThe CharlatansGeneSleeperKula ShakerEchobellyThe Bluetones...and many more

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe definitive account of Whitney Houston's astonishing life, ground-breaking career and tragic death complete with never-before-seen photographs from the only one who truly knows the story behind the headlines: her mother, Cissy Houston.Cissy has said little publicly about Whitney's heart-breaking death. Now, for the first time, she opens up and shares the unbelievable story of her daughter's life, as well as her own, and addresses Whitney's brightest and darkest moments.A legendary Grammy Award-winning gospel singer in her own right, Cissy Houston shows how the lessons from her own musical journey helped to shape Whitney's career from teaching Whitney to use her voice, to keeping her level-headed throughout her meteoric rise to fame.With candour and respect, she sets the record straight about Whitney, exploring both her turbulent marriage and her misunderstood struggles with drug abuse. Cissy goes behind the tabloid headlines to show fans around the world the true, human side of a strong, successful yet flawed musical icon who died much too young.Includes a Foreword by Dionne Warwick.Trade Review‘Essential reading for anyone who wants the inside angle on one of the greatest musical careers of the 20th Century.’ Daily Mail

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Success is a state of mind... Success isn't about conquering something; it's being happy with who you are.' - Stylist Magazine, 2011.Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning pop icon Britney Spears is one of the most successful and celebrated entertainers in pop history selling nearly 150 million records worldwide. Born in Mississippi and raised in Louisiana, Britney started out as a dancer and gymnast, before landing a role at twelve years old in 'The All New Mickey Mouse Club'. She became a household name as a teenager when she released her first single '...Baby One More Time'.This collection of Britney's relatable, inspiring and hugely optimistic quotes reveals a caring, generous personality who champions following your dreams. Despite a very public and at times troubling life, this is a book which sparkles with positivity and happiness; the 'Princess of Pop' offers you the best advice and lifts you up when you're down.Sample Quotes:'Performing is my therapy, to become different people onstage.' USA Today, 2013 'I have my relationship with God and myself, and that's what matters to me. I really don't care what most people think.' - V Magazine, 2016Table of ContentsEarly Years • Baby One More TIme • Princess of Pop • Femme Fatale • Circus • Glory.

Read more less

Book SynopsisRemembered for his flamboyant stage presence and his innovative and distinctive music videos, Prince (born Prince Rogers Nelson) is still widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time, known for his eclectic music style, which blended elements of funk, rock, R&B, soul, and pop. From his early beginnings in Minneapolis to his rise to global stardom, Prince left an indelible mark on the music world.Filled with quotations by one of the most innovative artists in history. The Little Guide to Prince is the perfect companion for fans everywhere. Through this collection of quotes, readers will discover Prince's thoughts on creativity, art, love, and life. His words are both profound and whimsical, reflecting his playful personality and his unwavering commitment to living life on his own terms.Whether you're a lifelong fan of Prince or simply a lover of great music, this is the perfect way to revisit his legacy and celebrate his enduring influence."Despite everything, no one can dictate who you are to other people." PrincePrince's best-selling album, Purple Rain, was released in 1984 as the soundtrack to the film of the same name, going on to become one of the most successful albums of the 1980s and selling over 22 million copies worldwide.Table of ContentsThe Revolution Will Be Televised • Symbol of the Time • Sexy MF • Purple Reign • Partyman.

Read more less

Book SynopsisABBA blasted their way onto the global pop scene with a Eurovision Song Contest win in 1974. The song, 'Waterloo', the band's tenth single, was a top 10 hit around the world and spurred them on to enormous chart success with singles, then albums, then compilations selling in the millions. They truly conquered the world, recording, touring, performing and entertaining huge crowds everywhere they went, but after less than a decade, the dream was fading and they went their separate ways, seemingly never to record together again.The superstardom was over, but their music continued to be popular and in every decade that passed the question was asked: will ABBA ever re-form? The answer was always no – they even allegedly turned down a billion-dollar tour – until the late 2010s, when rumours and announcements abounded and finally, to enormous global fanfare, the band revealed that a new 10-track album would be released in November 2021, and a virtual avatar tour would take place in from May 2022; fans went wild.The Little Guide to ABBA celebrates everything the super Scandinavian pop group represents: brilliant pop music, 70s style, influence on hundreds of subsequent acts and an enduring legacy.SAMPLE QUOTE: 'I had a dream, and it was fulfilled by meeting with Benny, Bjorn and Agnetha.' - Anni-Frid LyngstadSAMPLE FACT: ABBA Gold is the #2 bestselling album of all time.Table of ContentsBefore they were Abba: Biography of and the early careers of the four musicians, singers and performers: Anni-Frid, Benny, Björn and Agnetha. Arrival: How the newly formed band skyrocketed to Swedish, then European, then global success. Super Trouper: Critical and popular acclaim by the numbers and quotes - all things ABBA. So Long: The split, and what happened next for all four talented members. The Voyage Continues: 2021 and the future of the band, its members and the music. Thank You For The Music: Full listing of all Abba's singles, albums, DVDS and more.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBorn in 1948 into a family of ministers in Kingston, Jamaica, the statuesque and strikingly beautiful Grace Jones lived with her family in Syracuse, NY, before launching a career as a model in New York City. Gaining fame as the cover girl for such publications as Vogue and Elle, Jones''s flamboyant look proved to be a hit on the New York City nightclub circuit and she became a darling of the disco scene, which led to a recording contract and a substantial following among gay men. With her sexually charged, outrageous live shows, Grace soon earned the title of ''Queen of the Gay Discos.'' When she moved to Paris in 1970, the French fashion scene embraced her unusual, androgynous looks and, in addition to cover work, she dominated the runways of designers like Yves St. Laurent and befriended the likes of Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld. While there, she shared an apartment with Jerry Hall and Jessica Lange and became artist Jean-Paul Goude''s muse - he also fathered her son Pau

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhich Song is the Best and Why? Read it and see! Organized by rank, from 1 to 100, this illustrated celebration of the best songs by the boys who revolutionized rock-and-roll includes expert commentary, historical context, interview material, and lots of great sidebars (including 'best' lists from some of today's pop music powerhouses.) Like all 'best of' lists, the book's opinionated stance generates animated discussion.Here, There, and Everywhere is profusely illustrated with photos of the band at work and play, and all of the unforgettable album-cover art. Appendices include a complete song list, discography, videography, and bibliography, making it a one-stop source of Beatles facts and figures.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWords like "inspiring," "expansive," and "moving" are regularly used to describe Sigur Rós's ( ), and yet the only words heard on the record itself are a handful of meaningless nonsense syllables. The album has no title—or rather, its title is no title: just an empty pair of parentheses. The intention being that listeners will fill in the parentheses with their own title, their own interpretation of the sounds on the record. The CD sleeve consists of twelve pages that are essentially blank, lacking song titles, liner notes or production credits. Instead, it contains only semi-translucent frosted images of abstract natural scenes (tree branches, clouds, etc.), on which the listener is free to inscribe their own notes—or no notes at all. And then there are the lyrics, sung in a deliberately unintelligible tongue called "Hopelandic" which the band invites listeners to interpret freely. Ethan Hayden's book doesn't try to fill in the gaps between the album's parentheses, but instead explores the ways in which listeners might attempt to do so. Examining the communicative powers of asemantic language, the book asks whether music can bring sense to nonsense. What happens to the voice when it stops singing conventional language: does it simply become another musical instrument, or is it somehow more "human"? What role does space play on ( )? And how do we interpret music that we cannot possibly understand, but feel very deeply that we do?Trade ReviewWhile Sigur Ros fans who are not also students of linguistics would probably prefer a book that concentrated more on the music and less on things like trochaic rhythm, xenogloss and echolalia, there’s no denying that Hayden does make his points successfully and reading this book did give me a new level of appreciation for an album I already loved. * Midnight to Six *Ethan Hayden painstakingly transcribes the eight untitled tracks on ( ) into a series of long vowel sounds and odd clusters of consonants in an attempt to diagram the syntax of this strange new tongue and figure out what the band might be saying (despite their best efforts not to say anything). -- Stephen M. Deusner * Pitchfork *Table of Contentsacknowledgements ( nonsense voice space hope ) bibliography index

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt was 1969, and Miles Davis, prince of cool, was on the edge of being left behind by a dynamic generation of young musicians, an important handful of whom had been in his band. Rock music was flying off in every direction, just as America itself seemed about to split at its seams. Following the circumscribed grooves and ambiance of In A Silent Way; coming off a tour with a burning new quintet—called ‘The Lost Band’—with Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, Dave Holland and Jack DeJohnette; he went into the studio with musicians like frighteningly talented guitarist John McLaughlin, and soulful Austrian keyboardist Joe Zawinul. Working with his essential producer, Teo Macero, Miles set a cauldron of ideas loose while the tapes rolled. At the end, there was the newly minted Prince of Darkness, a completely new way forward for jazz and rock, and the endless brilliance and depth of Bitches Brew. Bitches Brew is still one of the most astonishing albums ever made in either jazz or rock. Seeming to fuse the two, it actually does something entirely more revolutionary and open-ended: blending the most avant-garde aspects of Western music with deep grooves, the album rejects both jazz and rock for an entirely different idea of how music can be made.Trade ReviewWhen Davis felt he could go no further with straight-ahead acoustic jazz, he embraced the electric age… by 1969, when he recorded the monumental double album Bitches Brew—the subject of a perceptive new monograph by George Grella Jr. in the 33 1/3 series—he had forged a bold new style, later dubbed the “electric Miles.” Today no period of Davis’s work exerts as much fascination for young jazz musicians. * The New York Review of Books *George Grella Jr. discusses time and the slippage thereof in Bitches Brew (one of the latest additions to the brilliant 33 1/3 series) ... [An] articulate and thought-provoking book ... [Grella] writes well about the music on the album itself, providing a readable and non-technical description of musical themes ... [and] offering insight into the construction ... of individual tracks and the album as a whole. * International Times *George Grella dissects the creative process engineered by Miles Davis album, delves into the motivations that led its creator to break with the basics of swing and incorporate influences from rock and unprecedented use of recording techniques in jazz . Grella also devotes two chapters to study the outstanding technical features of each of the six items on the double LP … and explores with passion, wit and analytical rigor [the] constellation of musical, social and psychological forces that came together to produce one of the most revolutionary works of contemporary music. * El Intruso (translated from Spanish) *A worthwhile companion to your next Miles Davis listening session. * Jazzinstitut (Bloomsbury translation) *Table of ContentsIntroduction Miles Davis Doesn't Care What You Think Directions in Music by Miles Davis Gramaphone, Trumpet, Razor Blade Bitches Brew, CS 9995 Bitches Brew, CS 9996 It's About That Time Selected & Annotated Bitches Brew Discography Selected Bibliography

Read more less

Book SynopsisMost people know that Bob Marley (1945–1981) was a singer-songwriter who popularised reggae music and whose Jamaican culture and Rastafarian beliefs have attained worldwide influence. What, perhaps, they don’t know is that his music inspired 7,000 prisoners of war to escape; that after running out of money he was forced to spend two years living in London; that he has sold more than 75 million records around the world; and that he was shot twice while trying to bring peace between two political groups. Biographic: Marley presents an instant impression of his life, work and legacy, with an array of irresistible facts and figures converted into infographics to reveal the musician behind the music.

Read more less

Book Synopsis"Tusk", the first record in history to cross the million dollar threshold in production costs, was the Fleetwood Mac's critically acclaimed, commercially disappointing 1979 double album. This book looks at one of the most unusual albums ever released by a major rock band.Trade Review[The] journalistic revelations and general insight add yet more layers to the double album's controversial standing. * The Austin Chronicle *Trucks doesn’t spend much time analyzing songs; the book is a tribute to the auteur spirit ... Readers may skim Trucks’ long digressions into his own autobiography, which is too bad because they contain some interesting anecdotes, especially regarding the popularity of the Buckingham Nicks album in the author’s native Alabama. The real draw of the book, however, are interpolated testimonials from indie rockers such as Camper Van Beethoven’s Jonathan Segel and Dave Portner of Animal Collective. -- Kirk Curnutt * Paste Magazine *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Intro: The Warning Shot Chapter One What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Jonathan Segel of Camper Van Beethoven Chapter Three What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Walter Egan Chapter Five What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Kaki King Chapter Seven What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk A.C. Newman of the New Pornographers Chapter Nine What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Gretchen Heffler of the USC Spirit of Troy marching band Chapter Eleven What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Dan Boeckner and Hadji Bakara of Wolf Parade Chapter Thirteen What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Dave Portner, a/k/a Avey Tare, of Animal Collective Chapter Fifteen What We Talk About When We Talk About Tusk Michael G of Tusk, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band Chapter Seventeen

Read more less

Book SynopsisJIMI is the ultimate tribute to the greatest guitar player in rock and roll history, celebrating what would have been Jimi Hendrix's 80th birthday on November 27, 2022. This comprehensive visual celebration is an official collaboration with Jimi's sister, Janie Hendrix, and John McDermott of Experience Hendrix L.L.C. JIMI significantly expands on the authors' previously published titles, including An Illustrated Experience, and features a new introduction by Janie, extensive biographical texts, and a trove of lesser known and never-before-published photographs, personal memorabilia, lyrics, and more. Additionally, JIMI includes quotations by legendary musicians, such as Paul McCartney, Ron Wood, Jeff Beck, Lenny Kravitz, Drake, Dave Grohl, and others who have spoken about Hendrix's lasting influence. In the four years before his untimely death at age 27, Jimi Hendrix created a groundbreaking musical legacy, one that includes revered classics such as "Purple Haze" and "Voodoo Child." His signature guitar playing, provocative songwriting, and charismatic performances have continued to inspire legions of musicians and fans alike.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn indispensable and captivating document, now back in print!Table of ContentsIntroduction to the 2000 Reprint, by David CannataPrefaceProloguePart I1. Zverev and His Cubs2. A New Family3. Aleko and "Free Artist"4. Deaths and Failure5. Second Concerto6. Imperial Theater7. Operas and Projects8. Dresden9. Europe10. First American Tour11. "Re" and The Bells12. War and Night VigilPart II13. Virtuoso14. Ties with Russia15. The Composer Resumes16. Work and Rest17. Exile Reinforced18. Senar and Rapsodie19. The "Russian" Symphony20. The Composer Rebuffed21. Retreat from Europe22. Symphonic Dances23. CaliforniaNotes on the TextAppendix 1. WorksIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis'The nature of Lou Reed's lyric writing that had been hitherto unknown in rock ... gave us the environment in which to put our more theatrical vision. He supplied us with the stretch and the landscape, and we peopled it.' - David Bowie

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Bookended by tragedy, shot through with violence, ultimately uplifting' Guardian'An insight into a singular artist' New Statesman'Fierce, funny and indomitable' Observer'My tears were relentlessly pricked by Tricky's memoir' Daily Telegraph Tricky is one of the most original music artists to emerge from the UK in the past 30 years. His signature sound, coupled with deep, questioning lyrics, took the UK by storm in the early 1990s and was part of the soundtrack that defined the post-rave generation.This unique, no-holds barred autobiography is not only a portrait of an incredible artist - it is also a gripping slice of social history packed with extraordinary anecdotes and voices from the margins of society. Tricky examines how his creativity has helped him find a different path to that of his relatives, some of whom were bare-knuckle fighters and gangsters, and how his mother's suicide has had a lifelong effect on him, both creatively and psychologically. With his unique heritage and experience, his story will be one of the most talked-about music autobiographies of the decade.Trade ReviewMy tears were relentlessly pricked by Tricky's memoir * Daily Telegraph *Tricky is that rarity, a famous person genuinely appalled by fame. This book is an insight into a singular artist -- Julie Burchill * New Statesman *Although bookended by tragedy, and shot through with violence and abuse, Hell Is Round the Corner proves an ultimately uplifting read, the testament of a fierce, funny and seemingly indomitable spirit * Observer *

Read more less

Free were formed in 1968 towards the end of the British blues boom. After two critically acclaimed albums, the release of ‘All Right Now’ and the album Fire and Water in 1970 brought them major success. Musical and personal differences took their toll and they split after the comparative failure of their next album and single. After starting new bands that never took off they reformed, but following further dissension and guitarist Paul Kossoff’s drug problems they disbanded for good in 1973. Vocalist Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke then formed Bad Company, who became one of the hottest bands on both sides of the Atlantic, maintaining a stable line-up with ex-Mott The Hoople guitarist Mick Ralphs and ex-King Crimson bassist Boz Burrell for the rest of the decade. Each member later pursued outside ventures, although they regrouped at intervals, recruiting new members after Ralphs’ retirement and Burrell’s death. This book examines both bands’ work and career from 1968 to 1980, plus the Kossoff, Kirke, Tetsu, Rabbit album, Kossoff’s solo work and Back Street Crawler, with a chapter on their later history, notably Rodgers’ three years with Queen.

Read more less

Book Synopsis Cypress Hill is considered the first-ever Latin American hip hop group, and has sold over 20 million albums to date, with this graphic novel release timed to their 30th anniversary and activities and merchandise planned around it Graphic novel traces the group’s origins back to Los Angeles, CA and is set against a backdrop of the turmoil of the LA Riots, making this an all-too relevant release following the events of 2020 and clashes between police and protestors in the Black Lives Matter movement Written by former Complex Editor-in-Chief and Def Jam Records executive Noah Callahan-Bever Feature media coverage in LA Times, NY Times, High Times Planned regional features across Southern California print and radio outlets, including daily and weekly publications in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego 1991: XXX years ago, a trailblazing trio made music history blending East Coast hip-hop fundamentals with West Coast chicano swagger to form a sound all their own. Before they became icons, Louis and Senen were just a couple teenage cholos from around the way, trying to stay out of trouble--Until a series of chance encounters with both sides of the law changed their path forever.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFlip the Script showcases some of the best rappers currently making music in the UK. It has taken a significant amount of time for women to get recognition in the genre, even though there have been phenomenal women in hip hop since its beginnings in the Bronx in the 1970s - but why did we take so long in the UK? Flip the Script gets to know the women who have paved the way, the successes and experiences of those that shape the thriving scene we have today. Arusa goes in depth with a number of female rappers who are making waves right now to find out about their relationships with hip hop, why they were attracted to the scene, what their thoughts are on the future of the genre and whether or not they feel a sense of belonging. Using her own research, and with reference to pioneers and critical theory, she explores hip hop's history of misogyny and how women have traditionally been looked over by their peers, and celebrates the brilliant icons who have made this one of the most exciting genres to be part of. A must read for fans of music, feminism, and culture.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Little Book of Elvis Presley is a superb collection of quotations by and about the man regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the twentieth century. A perfect companion for Elvis fans everywhere, this book of bite-sized quips helps capture exactly what made the The King of Rock 'n' Roll so special. From insightful quotes by fellow artists, collaborators and friends, to words of wit and wisdom from Elvis himself, you'll find more than 170 amusing and inspiring soundbites inside. 'I figure all any kid needs is hope and the feeling he or she belongs. If I could do or say anything that would give some kid that feeling, I would believe I had contributed something to the world.' Elvis Presley. Table of ContentsIntroduction. The Man from Memphis. The King. Elvis & Friends. Behind the Scenes. The Vegas Years. Hollywood Calls.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSteve Tupai Francis has over 25 years' experience in writing in a range of contexts including music, academia and civil society. Steve is obsessed with music, with David Bowie, Kate Bush, Prince, Japan and Kraftwerk taking pride of place in his collection of over 3,000 records.Trade ReviewSteve Tupai Francis pops the hood on Kraftwerk’s Computer World and delivers a lovingly exhaustive examination of the road to realizing their perfect sonic vision, the reverberations of which are still felt today … Artfully balancing key elements from the band’s previous work while shedding light on the various tools that helped create Computer World, (shoutout Speak and Spell!), Francis does an exceptional job of managing an avalanche of information, and keeping it moving and relevant. -- Wayne Jessup * The Owl Mag *Francis brings clarity to subjects like Bauhaus-influenced design, the Düsseldorf division of IBM, Hazeltine 1500 computers (the monitor that graces the album’s cover) and the intricate details of how Kraftwerk's Kling Klang studios came to be. * Spectrum Culture *Table of Contents1. Ohm Sweet Ohm 2. We Are the Robots 3. Planet Rock 4. Speak & Spell 5. From Station to Station 6. “We had no fathers”. 7. Interpol and Deutsche Bank, FBI and Scotland Yard… 8. Hiroshima Mon Amour 9. Tomorrow’s World 10. “Here’s to the Crazy Ones” 11. The Pleasure Principle 12. Neon Lights

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music,'' says Jimi Hendrix''s citation in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. James Marshall Hendrix remains unique as an African American who broke out of the traditional ''Black'' genres of blues, r&b and soul to play hard rock to an overwhelmingly white audience, almost single-handedly creating what became known as heavy metal. With unprecedented access to Jimi''s younger brother, Leon, the two most important women in his life and numerous previously untapped sources, bestselling music biographer Philip Norman resurrects the real Jimi from the almost mythical icon who has continued to influence young guitarists. His death in 1970, aged only twenty-seven when his fame was at its height, has long been rock''s greatest unsolved mystery. But finally we learn where the responsibility lay for Jimi''s lonely, squalid end.''An engaging memorial to a rock revolutionary whose music, in contrast to many of his reTrade ReviewAn engaging memorial to a rock revolutionary whose music, in contrast to many of his revered Sixties peers, retains much of its explosively thrilling voodoo power -- Stephen Dalton * THE TIMES *Norman's access to Hendrix's younger brother Leon brings a greater clarity to the facts of their wretched upbringing. Hendrix was haunted throughout his life by his bullying, overbearing father Al, alcoholic mother Lucille, and their doomed, loveless union. Likewise, Norman puts Jim Crow America during the early 1960s into sharp focus through the prism of Hendrix's slogging on the Chitlin' Circuit, as back-up guitarist to other black powerhouses such as Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Little Richard and Curtis Mayfield... Wild Thing confirms what we already know of Hendrix: he was a true one-off, star-bright shining, and ultimately someone for whom it was all too much, too soon. -- Paul Rees * DAILY EXPRESS *It's 50 years since Jimi Hendrix died and, as Norman puts it, became "president for eternity" of the infamous 27 Club. The guitar legend's excess all areas life story is familiar but new details emerge. Jimi's brother fills in the blanks on his wretched childhood in the US, and the racism of the UK, his adopted home, is sadly laid bare. The mystery over whether his death was accidental or murder is no clearer but Norman has one big revelation: Jimi loved watching Corrie * THE SUN *Hendrix's short life is outlined in detail and with insight by Norman...From being rock music critic of The Times during the 1970s to writing acclaimed biographies (deemed by many to be definitive) of Elton John, the Rolling Stones, John Lennon and Eric Clapton, Norman has the historical perspective and authentic writing nous to dig deep and achieve results -- Tony Clayton-Lea * BUSINESS POST IRELAND *WHEN McCartney, Jagger and other grandees first saw Hendrix, 'Everyone was dumbstruck, completely in shock, as if hit by a 50-megaton H-bomb'. This book is a first-rate analysis of Hendrix's 'fretboard wizardry and showmanship' - but nothingbecame the guitarist's life like the leaving of it, aged 27. Philip Norman gives a forensic account of Hendrix's death, about which controversy still rages -- Roger Lewis * DAILY MAIL *This is a good read that throws up interesting facts about the hugely exploitative nature of the 1960s music industry and its relationship to organised crime ... Wild Thing reveals some of the man behind the well-encrusted mythology, and sends the reader back to those wonderful records that still radiate with supernatural light -- Jon Savage * NEW STATESMAN *

Read more less

Book SynopsisContradicting assumptions that disco albums are shallow and packed with filler, Donna Summer's double album Once Upon A Time stands out as a piece that delivers on its promise of an immaculately crafted journey from start to finish. A new interpretation of the Cinderella story, it is set in the then contemporary world of New York disco and takes the listener on a journey from urban isolation and deep despair to joy and vindication, all filtered through the mind of its naïve and fantasy-prone protagonist.As well as charting the production of the album within the legendary Munich Machine in Germany, this book digs deep into the album's rich themes and subtexts. Approaching the book from inventive angles, the four essays within the book act as a prism connecting the reader to the classical aspirations of Eurodisco, the history of the black fairy tale and a queer knowledge that reads Summer's Cinderella tale in some surprising ways.Trade ReviewJeffery perfectly blends a personal, queer and highly subjective experience with historical context to make this one of the… better entries on a growing shelf of books that take disco seriously as an art form. * Spectrum Culture *Excellent… offers a fresh insight into this classic record. * Choice *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Once Upon A Time 1. Sweet Romance: A Tale of Two Discos 2. Faster and Faster to Nowhere: Fairy Tales and the Black Urban Experience 3. Working the Midnight Shift: Life and Music Inside the Munich Machine Brief Interlude: A Man Like You or How to Get Your Man 4. Fairy Tale High: A Personal Reading of Once Upon A Time Happily Ever After: An Invitation

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn August 1994, Manic Street Preachers released The Holy Bible, a dark, fiercely intelligent album that explored such themes as mental illness, murder and war. Richey Edwards, the band's lyricist and motive force, vanished five months later; he was never found. In his absence The Holy Bible entered the rock canon alongside Joy Division's Closer and Nirvana's In Utero, the valedictory works of troubled young men. This book tells the dramatic story of Manic Street Preachers'' masterpiece. Tracing the album''s origins in the Valleys, an industrialised region of South Wales where the band spent their formative years, the author argues that The Holy Bible can be seen as a meditation on the uses and abuses of history.Trade ReviewEvans approaches the Manics' dark, sinewy third album, The Holy Bible, with the same studious zeal that precipitated its arrival ... An essential companion piece. [Five stars]. * Record Collector *In this book David Evans does a beautiful and passionate job of placing the record in the context of the band’s Welshness … as well as the political and cultural landscape of the UK in 1994 ... If as a Manics fan you ever picked up a specific book because it was referenced in The Holy Bible, it’s essential further reading. * Classic Rock *A careful and thoughtful examination of The Holy Bible that manages to make sense of an album with which ... it’s hard to know where to begin...[Evans] insightfully examines the influence of the Welsh chapel tradition on Richey’s lyrics and outlook. * Review 31 *For the non-academic reader who happens to love the Manics, this book is absorbing and highly readable; for the specialist there are the sprinklings of ivory towerism – like chilli flakes on a fine risotto, just enough. In this wonderful world of purchase power, I hope you will all go and find a copy. You won’t regret it. * Daryl Leeworthy, author of Labour Country: Political Radicalism and Social Democracy in South Wales 1831-1985 *The Holy Bible is an album which has stimulated hundreds and thousands of words ... [and] has intrigued, perplexed, worried and inspired an army of listeners. It is thus a triumph that this small book is able to encapsulate so much of what is vital, special and worth celebrating on the record ... For anyone new to The Holy Bible, this well written, enthusiastic, literate, easy to read and totally 4Real book is a perfect introduction to why it is a unique record. For anyone who's grown up with it, Evans achieves the essential feat of impelling you to listen to it and think about it again. * R*E*P*E*A*T fanzine *[A] well-rounded, comprehensive and smart document of the album, its contexts and legacy...More than anything, Evans’ book is a reminder of the album’s strength as a recurring galvanising force * Concrete Islands *It took me back to when a band meant everything. I loved the Welsh angle, the big nod to the music - often overlooked because of the focus on Richey's lyrics - and the respect it shows to the fans. It's a brilliant book. The album is an alternative bible and here it has the treatment it deserves. * Mariana Enríquez, author of Things We Lost in the Fire *What a thing of beauty this book is. I love how as well as describing the song recording process and band chronology it also reads around the album, interrogating literary works thoughtfully and looking for threads to pull. It made me see the music in new ways. * Rodge Glass, author of Alasdair Gray: A Secretary's Biography, winner of the Somerset Maugham Award *Table of ContentsTrack Listing Prologue Introduction Scars The bigger things Things can only get better This is yesterday Machines Into the black Portals Forever delayed Epilogue

Read more less

Book Synopsis'I've been on six-week tours of America and it breaks you open, but to do it straight off the bat, in the middle of winter, with three new girls... I was thinking, If we survive this, it'll be a miracle... but it was the best time we've ever had.'The first official book from Noel Gallagher, this is the behind-the-scenes story of his biggest ever solo tour and the making of the critically-acclaimed album Who Built The Moon?.Join Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds as they embark on the Stranded On The Earth world tour - a phenomenal year-long journey around the globe, taking in dates across the USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Europe and Southeast Asia.With photography by Sharon Latham, who was granted unprecedented access, this fully illustrated book documents life on the road for one of the world's most successful artists; featuring unseen images and candid interviews with Noel and the band.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMusic writer Womack delivers a fascinating, in-depth look at the creation of Abbey Road, the Beatles'' penultimate album released 50 years ago.... Womack displays a detailed and insightful analysis that fans will hope he applies to the band''s other albums.? Publishers Weekly Acclaimed Beatles historian Kenneth Womack offers the most definitive account yet of the writing, recording, mixing, and reception of Abbey Road.In February 1969, the Beatles began working on what became their final album together. Abbey Road introduced a number of new techniques and technologies to the Beatles'' sound, and included Come Together, Something, and Here Comes the Sun, which all emerged as classics. Womack''s colorful retelling of how this landmark album was written and recorded is a treat for fans of the Beatles.Solid State takes readers back to 1969 and into EMI''s Abbey Road Studio, which boasted an advanced solid stTrade ReviewMusic writer Womack delivers a fascinating, in-depth look at the creation of Abbey Road, the Beatles' penultimate album released 50 years ago.... Womack displays a detailed and insightful analysis that fans will hope he applies to the band's other albums. * Publishers Weekly *In the enjoyable deep dive Solid State, Kenneth Womack tells a detailed story of how the album came to be. * FORWARD *Womack has created an account of the Abbey Road sessions that is extremely well-researched and well-written. The timing of the publication is perfect, given the recent success of the 50th Anniversary Reissue of the album. It is well worth a read for die-hard fans, and even casual fans, who are interested in how this work of art was created. * Spill Magazine *Womack humanizes and demystifies the mythic status of the album and of the four Beatles, but not by diminishing their achievements... Solid State is as fine a tribute to the Fabs as one could hope for in 2019. * Spectrum Culture *If you are a studio nerd or a Beatles aficionado you will love this book. * Aquarian Weekly *Solidly entertaining. * On the Seawall *Kenneth Womack is an acknowledged Beatles archaeologist and archivist, and in this effort he undertakes a fine biography of this fine recording, taking it apart and reassembling it for us along the way...It is definitive indeed regarding the writing, recording, mixing and reception of Abbey Road. * Criticsatlarge.ca *Table of ContentsForeword by Alan Parsons, by Alan Parsons Introduction: "Unmitigated Disaster" 1. EMI TG12345 Mk1 2. Stereophonic Sound 3. Tales of Men and Moog 4. "The Long One" 5. The Wind-Up Piano and Mrs. Mills 6. Virtuosi 7. Tittenhurst Park 8. Letting It Be 9. Solid State Acknowledgments Notes Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe question of control for Black women is a costly one. From 1986 onwards, the trajectory of Janet Jackson's career can be summed up in her desire for control. Control for Janet was never simply just about her desire for economic and creative control over her career but was, rather, an existential question about the desire to control and be in control over her bodily integrity as a Black woman. This book examines Janet's continuation of her quest for control as heard in her sixth album, The Velvet Rope. Engaging with the album, the promotion, the tour, and its accompanying music videos, this study unpacks how Janet uses Black cultural production as an emancipatory act of self-creation that allows her to reconcile with and, potentially, heal from trauma, pain, and feelings of alienation. The Velvet Rope's arc moves audiences to imagine the possibility of what emancipation from oppression--from sexual, to internal, to societal--could look like for the singer and for othersTable of ContentsTrack Listing Acknowledgments Preface 1. A Special Need 2. Like the Blues Need the Pain 3. Damn, Disconnected 4. Mmm … My Lips Hurt 5. Work in Progress 6. Let Me Just Fuck With it For a Minute 7. Welcome to My World Notes

Read more less