Popular music Books

Book Synopsis The latest book in the bestselling All the Songs series, this is the most in-depth exploration of Springsteen's songs ever written.Spanning nearly 50 years of albums, EPs, B-sides, and more, read the full story behind every single song that The Boss has ever released. Moving chronologically through Springsteen's long career, expert authors Margotin and Guesdon explore everything there is to know about every single song. No stone is left unturned across 670 pages, from the inspiration behind the lyrics and melody to the recording process and even the musicians and producers who worked on each track.Uncover the stories behind the music in this truly definitive book - a must-have for every Springsteen fan.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBy the time she was 14, Chrissie Hynde knew she had to get out of Akron, Ohio. Her perfect ’50s American childhood upturned by a newly acquired taste for rock ’n’ roll, motorbikes and the ‘get down boys’ seen at gigs in and around Cleveland – Mitch Ryder, the Jeff Beck Group, the Velvet Underground and David Bowie among the many.Wrapped up in the Kent State University riots and getting dangerously involved in the local biker and drug scenes, she escaped - to Mexico, Canada, Paris and finally London where she caught the embryonic punk scene just in time not only to witness it first-hand, but more importantly to seize the opportunity to form her own band, the Pretenders.Iggy Pop, the Sex Pistols, the Clash, Vivienne & Malcolm, Ray Davies … on every page household names mingle with small town heroes as we shift from bedroom to biker HQ; from squat to practice room; from pub gig to Top Of The Pops – the long and crooked path to stardom, and for the Pretenders, ultimately, tragedy.That Chrissie Hynde is alive to tell the tale is, by her own admission, something of a miracle. Throughout she is brutally honest, wryly humorous and always highly entertaining. She has written one of the most evocative and colourful music memoirs to be published in recent years.Trade ReviewChrissie Hynde has just written the rock memoir of the year * Sunday Times *Chrissie Hynde’s autobiography Reckless ... out-rocks them all * Washington Post *She writes just like she lives, and just like she makes music. She does it her way, which is an inimitable multiplicity of things: impulsive, untamed, ragged, proud, a little sad around the edges * Daily Beast *Full of engaging stories, dry wit and revelations * Guardian *She writes beautifully -- Mail on Sunday

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Little Book of the Beatles is a superb book of quotations by, and about, the band that revolutionised popular music the world over. A perfect companion for Beatles fans everywhere, this collection of bite-sized quips helps capture exactly what made the Fab Four so special. From insightful quotes by fellow artists, collaborators and friends, to words of wit and wisdom from John, Paul, George and Ringo themselves, you'll find more than 170 amusing and inspiring soundbites inside. 'I'd like to say thank you on behalf of the group and ourselves, and I hope we passed the audition.' John Lennon, 1970. Table of ContentsIntroduction. Hello Goodbye. Beatlemania. Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. John, Paul, George and Ringo. Twist and Shout. And in the End.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Daniel Rachel imagines what the next Beatles album might have been like, with painstaking detail and great stories' - David Hepworth, The Guardian'A fantastical journey through what might have been... Exciting and compelling.' - Chris Hawkins, BBC 6 Music'Daniel Rachel's forensic investigation makes a strong case for looking afresh at the evidence... a fascinating detailed read' - Mojo'In this meticulously crafted book, Rachel offers an extraordinary peek behind the curtain of one of the most celebrated music groups in history...a must-read for any music aficionado' - Music Devotee'A detailed researcher and writer... Ingenious.' - Record Collector'Full of enthralling details about the highs and lows of the band's last year... it's like the DNA in a crime scene.' - David Hepworth, Word in Your Ear'A book that is religiously detailed and yet manages to create tantalising glimpses of what might have been' - Louder Than War***This is the story of the great lost Beatles album.The end of the Beatles wasn't inevitable. It came through miscommunication, misunderstandings and missed opportunities to reconcile.But what if it didn't end? What if just one of those chances was taken, and the Beatles carried on? What if they made one last, great album?In The Lost Album of The Beatles, Daniel Rachel - winner of the prestigious Penderyn Music Book Prize - looks at what could have been. Drawing on impeccable research, Rachel examines the the Fab Four's untimely demise - and from the ashes compiles a track list for an imagined final album, pulling together unfinished demos, forgotten B-sides, hit solo songs, and arguing that together they form the basis of a lost Beatles masterpiece.Compelling and convincing, The Lost Album of The Beatles is a daring re-write of the group's history, and a tantalising glimpse of what might have been.Trade ReviewDaniel Rachel imagines what the next Beatles album might have been like, with painstaking detail and great stories -- David Hepworth * The Guardian *A book that is religiously detailed and yet manages to create tantalising glimpses of what might have been -- Craig Campbell * Louder Than War *Daniel Rachel's forensic investigation makes a strong case for looking afresh at the evidence... a fascinating detailed read * Mojo *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Times Book of the Year 'Most underrated group? World of Twist.' - LIAM GALLAGHER'They're a top band. No one could do what World of Twist do, except World of Twist.' - NOEL GALLAGHER'They were such a special band, such a moment in time, and Gordon has written such a special book.' - JON RONSONWorld of Twist: the greatest lost band of all time.While fame, glory and untold riches seemed like an inevitability for World of Twist at the turn of the '90s, the universe was simply not ready for a group of retro futurists, psychedelic adventurers and cosmic tunesmiths.Too late for Madchester, too early for Britpop and too much fun to pigeonhole, the band went on to face a demoralising string of near-misses and 'what could have been's, ultimately falling apart in a medley of incompatible drugs, musical contretemps, sartorial differences and all-round shoulder-shrugging apathy.But they burned bright and left an indelible mark on everyone who looked deep into their light...Now, in When Does the Mind-Bending Start?, co-founder, guitarist and principal songwriter Gordon King tells the incredible inside story of his time with World of Twist, revealing the jealousy, anguish and personal demons experienced by the clashing personalities of King and the band's late singer, Tony Ogden.This is a memoir of tragedy and triumph, comedy and drama, demise and recovery.Trade Review'They were such a special band, such a moment in time, and Gordon has written such a special book.' -- Jon Ronson'Amazingly good: moving, funny and about everything - music, friendship, success, failure, loss, place and 1,000 other things. You won't regret buying it and reading it.' -- John Harris'The engaging narrative is rich in comedy, mundanity, fantasy, hubris and poignancy. 4/5' -- Mojo'One of the most vivid, celebratory and honest books ever published about love for music. 4/5' -- Record Collector

Read more less

Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Penderyn Music Book PrizeAn Uncut Magazine Book of the Year A Rough Trade Book of the Year A Resident Book of the YearThe story of soul legend P.P. Arnold is one of musical highs, personal lows and extraordinary endurance.From her origins in powerhouse church gospel, the talented singer's performing career began at the age of just seventeen when she joined the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. But little did the young Ikette know that her world was about to be turned upside-down...Upon arriving in London in 1966 to support the Rolling Stones, the shy but vivacious teenager caught the eye of frontman Mick Jagger. He would persuade her to stay in the city and record as a solo artist, ultimately leading to a five-decade career working with everyone from Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, the Small Faces, Nick Drake and Barry Gibb to Peter Gabriel, Roger Waters, the KLF, Paul Weller and Primal Scream.However, it has been far from a gilded life for the soul superstar. After being forced into marriage upon becoming pregnant at the age of fifteen, Arnold went on to endure a string of devastating personal traumas. Yet the versatile musician survived it all and has continued to reinvent herself throughout the years -be that as a West End actress, a much-sought-after session singer or a renowned pop vocalist in her own right.Now, for the first time, P.P. Arnold shares her remarkable adventures. This is the long-awaited memoir of a true soul survivor. 'Jaw-dropping.' - Mojo'Powerful.' - Woman's Hour'Explosive.' - Daily MailTrade Review'Brutally honest ... this memoir is a sizzler.' -- Daily Telegraph'Searingly honest account of an extraordinary life ... powerful stuff.' -- Radio Times'A jaw-dropping memoir. Arnold's resilience sparkles throughout. This isn't just surviving, it's flourishing.' -- Mojo'An adroit blend of pathos and self-deprecating honesty. Its occasionally shocking and even heart-wrenchingly tragic in places, but ultimately the book's tone is a triumphant one. 4/5' -- Record Collector'An extraordinary book by an extraordinary artist.' -- Lauren Laverne'Very powerful.' -- Emma Barnett, Woman's Hour'Explosive.' -- Daily Mail'Searingly honest.' -- Daily Express'Nobody could accuse Arnold of pulling her punches ... but it doesn't read like score-settling either. Absorbing.' -- Irish Independent'Not long after arriving in England, I met P.P. Arnold. On reflection, she was just like me. Determined, naïve, in a world we did not understand. We spent a lot of hours at IBC Studios in Portland Place recording new songs that still, today, bring back such amazing memories. I will never forget those times. Pat was on the ascent until the terrible moment of her daughter's passing. This brought Pat to her knees. It was the saddest time. What I think I understand now is what real loss means and Pat understood that long before I did. I relish those times we spent together. Those are some of the great memories.' -- Barry Gibb'Exceptional!' -- Craig Charles

Read more less

Book SynopsisComprising a vivid and varied series of miniature biographies, revealing profiles, thought-provoking essays and a multitude of previously unknown anecdotes and quotes, Hercules!: The A to Z of Elton John is the perfect compendium for the casual fan or devoted connoisseur, providing a funny, comprehensive and fully alphabetised overview of the star's life and music.Charting all the highs and lows, the major record releases and the significant tours, the strokes of genius and the bottoms of barrels, this insightful portrait will cover serious subjects such as Elton's battle with the media, his highly publicised addictions, his route to sobriety, his tangled love life and his struggles to come to terms with his sexuality, hair loss and temper. But, as Elton himself always does so well in the hundreds of interviews he has given over the past half-century, his stories will also be told frankly and humorously, his demons now conquered and his success unrelenting.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Dividing pop sheep from out-there GOATS with spite and guile, it's part SCUM manifesto, part insane hot or not list.' SUNDAY TIMESThe followers - this book is not for you.The salt of the earth - this book is not for you.The worthy - this book is not for you.The ideologists - this book is not for you.Hedonists and bohemians - this book is not for you.The middlebrow - this book is not for you.The highbrow - this book is not for you.Dilettantes - this book is not for you.1970s middle school RE teachers - this book is not for you.The England football team (women's and men's) - this book is not for you.The litanists - this book is not for you.Gatekeepers - this book is not for you.Gamekeepers - this book is not for you. (Not even for the poachers...)The curators - this book is not for you.The left, the right - this book is not for you.The list-makers - lists are for shoppe

Read more less

Book SynopsisCrooners sing close to the mic in a soft, intimate style. In this book Alex Coles explores the crooner in popular music from the 1950s to the present. Each chapter focuses on one song and one singer – Frank Sinatra, Scott Walker, Barry White, David Bowie, Bryan Ferry, Tom Waits, Grace Jones, Ian McCulloch, Nick Cave and Nas – and examines in detail how each contributes to the crooner image. The book describes how crooners traverse era, gender, geography and genre – where Barry White developed out of disco, Nick Cave sprung from alternative rock; where Grace Jones was born from reggae and funk, Nas originated from hip-hop. Ultimately, Coles shows how the crooner continues to be a figure that enables listeners to reflect on and communicate their emotions.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Frank Sinatra: ‘What’s New?’ (1968) 2 Scott Walker: ‘It’s Raining Today’ (1969) 3 Barry White: ‘Bring Back My Yesterday’ (1973) 4 David Bowie: ‘Word on a Wing’ (1976) 5 Bryan Ferry: ‘When She Walks (in the Room)’ (1978) 6 Tom Waits: ‘Ruby’s Arms’ (1980) 7 Grace Jones: ‘Unlimited Capacity for Love’ (1982) 8 Ian McCulloch: ‘Ocean Rain’ (1984) 9 Nick Cave: ‘Far from Me’ (1997) 10 Nas: ‘Bye Baby’ (2012) Conclusion References Select Bibliography Select Discography Acknowledgements Photo Acknowledgements Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis in-depth biography details Harry's life so far. From his childhood and his journey to fame on the X-Factor to releasing incredibly successful solo music and becoming a fashion icon, this book gets you closer to Harry than ever before.From the start of his career we follow the roller coaster of emotions as One Direction broke up, and we learn how Harry reinvented himself. Free from the shackles of being in a boyband he was able to be the rock star he had always dreamed of being and conquer the US by himself.Not content with being one of the world's biggest popstars, Harry has also cultivated a career as a film star, kicking off with a starring role in box-office hits like Dunkirk before going on to become a member of the iconic Marvel universe and, in 2022, taking the lead in My Policeman and Don’t Worry Darling. Now, as universally acknowledged fashion royalty, he has hosted the Met Gala with Serena Williams and Lady Gaga and regularly models for Gucci. In 2021 he released his beauty brand, Pleasing, and he has even partnered with the meditation app Calm to record a story designed to help listeners drift off. His new album Harry’s House soared to the top of the charts in both the UK and the US, and his 2022 tour 'Love on Tour' has sold out globally. In short, his phenomenal success shows no signs of slowing down. Get to know the iconic singer in greater depth with this book that gets you to the heart of a very modern pop star – a must read for all of Harry's fans.Also available:Ariana: The Biography (9781782439745)Adele: To 30 and Beyond: The Unauthorized Biography (9781789294361)Britney: The Unauthorized Biography (9781789294590)

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe story of pop legend Dusty Springfield from the people who knew her, from her troubled childhood to 60s mod queen and enduring music icon. Dusty Springfield was one of our greatest pop singers. From 60s hits like ‘I Only Want to be With You’, ‘Son of a Preacher Man’ and ‘You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me’ to her 80s collaboration with the Pet Shop Boys and beyond, she was a musical pioneer and the very essence of authentic white soul. A member of the US Rock and Roll and UK Music Halls of Fame, international polls have named Dusty among the best female pop artists of all time.Twenty-five years after her passing, she continues to fascinate and inspire. This classic biography is based on over forty-five original interviews with close friends and people who worked with her, including Sir Tom Jones, Lulu, legendary arranger Ivor Raymonde, and the late, great Atlantic Records trio, Jerry Wexler, To

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

No period of Bob Dylan's six-decade career confounds fans more than the 1980s. The singer began the decade with Saved, the second in a trio of explicitly religious records, and a tour in which he declined to play his older songs because of concern they were anti-god. Dylan's ambivalence about the songs that made him an icon was mirrored by fans, many of whom found his post-conversion messages strident and judgmental. This made Saved his worst selling album in years and set a pattern for the next several years. Despite being a prolific time, in which the singer released seven studio albums, the decade was defined by inconsistency. Throughout the 1980s, some of his most profound work alternated with lackluster compositions and indifferent performances - sometimes on the same album. However, even as Dylan struggled artistically, all of his albums contained reminders of why he continued to be celebrated. By the end of the decade, his perseverance - both on stage and in the studio - and a spontaneous collaboration with some of his peers coalesced into his best received releases since the 1970s. Rather than closing a book, the combination of Oh Mercy and the first Traveling Wilburys record pointed to new chapters. The 1990s began a remarkable run of success that few popular artists have managed at any stage of their careers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThey pulled on their platform boots and slapped on the makeup when everybody else was discarding theirs. Their albums were subject to poor production, scathing reviews, and commercial indifference. Other bands refused to have them as their opening act. Their record company was up against the wall. By all reasoning, they should have become one of the 'lost' bands of the 1970s, like the Harlots of 42nd Street or the Hollywood Stars. Yet in 1975 Kiss unexpectedly came Alive! and by the following year, they were the biggest rock and roll band - and brand - in America. This is a journey through Kiss's first and most storied decade. It is the story of the four men behind the masks, and the music they made, the studio albums, the legendary live albums, and of one of the greatest rock follies in music history, the four simultaneously released solo album. Along the way, it tells of the costumes and the concerts, the merchandise and the Marvel comic books, the television appearances and the disastrous 1978 movie, Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park. And having bestrode the 1970s like an unstoppable colossus, it ends with Kiss under siege, beset by changing public taste without, and combustible personalities within.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFew singers have been able to change with the times like Johnny Mathis. Although his fame rests on his massive popularity in the 50s and 60s when he competed with Elvis and Frank Sinatra and outsold almost anyone, Mathis has remained relevant through the decades and no other crooner is as technically skilled or able to cover multiple genres so convincingly. Jazz, soul, disco, country, classic and contemporary pop, Mathis has adapted his impressive vocal range to all kinds of music and transgressed the stereotype of what a male voice is supposed to sound like. The longest-running artist on Columbia, he has been recognized by the record industry with The Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award and three recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame, but so far, there hasn't been an exhaustive examination of his complete recordings in book form. Authorized by Mathis and including fresh insights from himself as well as his producers and arrangers, Misty: The Music of Johnny Mathis, rights that wrong. With detailed discussions of the records and a discography, the book traces Mathis's musical journey from the past to the present and includes a wealth of photos and album scans from his own archive. It's the ideal companion for fans and new listeners interested in exploring one of the most prominent voices in American music.

Read more less

Book SynopsisGreen Day are one of rock history's greatest and most successful bands. Singer/guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong, bassist Mike Dirnt, and drummer Tre Cool have been together creating rock music with a punk heart for over three decades. The trio has reigned supreme, shattering previously conceived notions of how commercially successful a punk rock band can be. They helped extend the boundaries of the genre by adding excellent pop/rock song writing. Green Day harnessed alternative music's creativity with a passion and fire that ignited two of rock's best albums, the influential Dookie, which sold 20 million, and the culturally important rock opera American Idiot, which sold 16 million and went on to become a Broadway show. In their 30-plus years, Green Day revolutionized rock musically and lyrically, inspiring countless bands. During the 1990s, they lead the pop-punk charge, and in the 2000s, they inspired a second generation of fans and bands through a lyrically intelligent and musically complex style of hard rock. Green Day: On Track takes a journey through the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame band's career, analysing every album and song in their storied catalogue

Read more less

Book SynopsisTraversing power metal, acoustic introspect and finally settling on their breakthrough cinematic sound, Finnish heavyweights Nightwish are the leading name in the sumptuous world of symphonic metal. Having tackled numerous high-profile line-up changes, each threatening to derail the grand vehicle of spirit curated by founder Tuomas Holopainen, their every turn has been documented across nine studio records. Whilst the surface presents the Nightwish discography as a feast of metaphor and imagination, it's in the undercurrent that the vulnerability of the compositions are revealed; the fury of 'Master Passion Greed' detailing the acrimonious split with vocalist Tarja Turunen, the melancholia permeating Century Child and the awe-inspiring ode to evolution of Endless Forms Most Beautiful. This book analyses every song released by the group, from their Angels Fall First debut to 2020's Human. : : Nature., discussing inimitable singles 'Nemo' and the begrudgingly composed 'Sleeping Sun' as well as patriotic sport soundtracks, impromptu live outings and curious cover versions. Nightwish On Track also discusses the abundant live releases and compilations from their career to date and gathers together an exhaustive list of the band's B-sides and rarities.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the band’s first single, ‘In The City’ in April 1977, to their last, ‘Beat Surrender’ in November 1982, The Jam went from new wave wannabees to arguably the biggest band in the UK. The Jam on track covers every song released by the group during their five-and-a-half-year career on the Polydor label and includes the pick of demos and little-known recordings from various compilation albums after the band’s demise. Each song is looked at from a musical and lyrical viewpoint, and includes contemporary comments from Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler, music critics and those working closely with the band. Album and single sleeves, videos (or promo films as they were more widely known at the time) and TV appearances are part of the mix as author Stan Jeffries looks at what made The Jam one of Britain’s most respected acts and how their legacy continues to this day. For both the dedicated and the curious, this book guides you through the career of one of the country’s musical giants.

Read more less

The White Stripes were one of the breakout bands of the early 2000s 'rock revival'. They produced some of the most indelible songs of the 21st Century and reintroduced a sense of mystery and panache to the staid indie rock scene of the era. But that was only the beginning for singer-guitarist Jack White. From his humble origins in the fabled Detroit garage rock scene, via The White Stripes and his other bands, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather, to his ongoing solo career, Jack White has forged an extensive and eclectic body of work. Now, as the head of his own record label, he has achieved what most musicians dream of: the freedom to follow his idiosyncratic muse where it takes him, regardless of the whims of the record industry or popular taste. His music takes in all styles, from psychedelic power pop, to gothic swamp rock, to futuristic synth-funk, but he remains connected to the traditions of American roots music. He is always eager to cite his influences, and his collaborations and production work are an important part of his musical development. This is the first book that takes in the entire scope of Jack White's career: his bands, his solo work, and his work with other artists. By going through his discography track-by-track, this book will argue that Jack White is one of the great artists of the modern age. Perhaps, in fact, the last great rock star.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDive into the musical universe of solo Ian Hunter songs like never before with Ian Hunter On Track. We unlock the secrets behind every lyric, riff, and melody in this one-of-a-kind musical journey. From the soul-stirring anthems that defined an era to the hidden gems that eluded the spotlight, this book leaves no chord unheard.

Read more less

Book SynopsisReleased in 1969, Let it Bleed was The Rolling Stones' eighth studio album (tenth in the USA). This account examines in detail the background, inspiration and recording of the songs, the reception of the work as a whole, and its legacy and influence on subsequent generations of bands and performers to this day.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFew artists have had as great an impact with their debut single as Procol Harum. Mesmerising and perplexing in equal measure, 'A Whiter Shade of Pale' remains the perfect distillation of the possibilities of psychedelia in that brief period when British pop seemed to promise a summer of love that would last forever.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPacked with more than 185 facts, stats, quotes, quips, trivia and historic dates an essential read and collector's item for every AC/DC enthusiast and obsessive.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom his allegiance to punk rock in his adolescence to becoming an essential voice on music and culture, Kelefa Sanneh makes a deep study of how popular music unites and divides us. Distilling a career's worth of knowledge, he explores the tribes music forms, and how its genres, shape-shifting across the years, give us a way to track larger forces and concerns.This is a book to shock and awe the deepest music nerd, and at the same time to work as a heady gateway drug for the uninitiated.Trade ReviewThe most elegant history of popular music ever written . . . Sanneh not only delivers a coolly dazzling overview of the battlefields of genre but also revels open-heartedly in the music itself, his taste unbound by dogma or prejudice. The operative word is keen: zealous in spirit, exact in execution, ferociously acute from the first sentence to the last -- ALEX ROSS * * author of The Rest is Noise * *Kelefa Sanneh has achieved the impossible. Major Labels somehow manages to unspool everything you need to know about 50 years of music, but more impressively, he makes you care about all of it. Even the stuff you don't care about. It's funny, it's personal, and as a piece of writing the book borders on poetry -- DAVID LETTERMANAn intellectually rigorous retelling of rock and pop history * * The Times, Best Books of the Year * *The most wide-ranging music book of the year . . . elegantly written * * Herald, Music Books of the Year * *Intriguing, controversial, personal . . . a unique and absorbing read * * Guardian * *The book is immensely readable, and full of rich detail * * Independent * *This is a long-haul read, yet charmingly conducted in that languid, laconic New Yorker style that makes such a mammoth undertaking even possible. Its kick is to sew into the stories some near hidden gems - and socking ones too -- ANNIE NIGHTINGALESanneh's hospitable prose makes understanding this labyrinthine history feel like an adventure * * Guardian * *Entertaining, diligent . . . His observations are always fresh and thought-provoking, and presented with clarity and wit * * MOJO * *Inside this big, ambitious hybrid book was a smaller, more personal and altogether more compelling exploration of belonging and identity through music * * Observer * *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA breathtaking, never-before-seen glimpse into life on tour with David Bowie, by the late singer's official tour photographerIn 1983 David Bowie set out on the Serious Moonlight Tour, his biggest ever. On the road with him was his official photographer, Denis O'Regan. Few artists and photographers have had such a close touring relationship. This book is the result: a never-before-seen photographic portrait of a year with Bowie, from the theatre of performance to his most unguarded moments. Introduced by O'Regan and with every single image personally approved by Bowie, this is an intimate view of an icon at the height of his fame.Trade ReviewThese are relaxed, intimate pictures, many showing Bowie off-stage, Bowie himself, even. * The Evening Standard *A stunning collection of over 300 personal pictures, with many published for the first time. Visually, it is a handsome book that is beautifully produced, with first-rate graphics and splendid reproduction . . . Ricochet is a remarkable photo essay about an artist at his inflection point, capturing Bowie's story as well as that of the culture surrounding him. * All About Jazz magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA pocket-sized collection of more than eighty hits by the biggest names of the 1960s. Presented in chord songbook format, with chord symbols, Guitar chord boxes and complete lyrics.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDuring its eighty years under London's legendary Oxford Street everyone from Louis Armstrong to rock icons the Rolling Stones, Sex Pistols and Chuck Berry have played the historic 100 Club. In Ace of Clubs, with foreword by Jools Holland, we read its story in the words of the people who came to the club to play, work, dance or just listen to the music. Handsomely illustrated in colour, this is the first comprehensive story of one of the world's longest-running clubs, its seventy-year jazz history and its transformation into the greatest grass-roots music venue in the UK. Now granted special status it is ranked alongside Abbey Road Studios, Jane Austen's home and Shakespeare's birthplace. The 100 Club's story is an inspiring and frequently hilarious must-read for music fans everywhere.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFive superb albums of graded pieces provide a wealth of jazz repertoire for you to play. Throughout, there is a huge range of styles, from bebop blues to calypsos, boogie-woogie to ballads, jazz waltzes to free jazz. There are classic tunes by the jazz greats, including Duke Ellington, Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk. And there are brand-new pieces specially commissioned from professional British jazz musicians and educators. Each album presents 15 pieces in three lists: blues, standards and contemporary jazz. The head of each piece is set out with all the characteristic voicings, phrasing and rhythmic patterns you need for a stylish performance. The improvised section gives guideline pitches and left-hand voicings as a practical starting-point. Accessible, student-centred and of the highest musical standards, these pieces will get you playing jazz confidently and creatively. Contains all the pieces for ABRSM's new jazz piano exam.Trade ReviewA comprehensive, intelligent, beautifully packaged presentation. * Piano *Awe-inspiring in its thoroughness...Especially impressive in this series are the specific scales, aural skills and piano pieces-a pedagogical marvel that Americans would do well to emulate. * Piano & Keyboard *The new Associated Board jazz syllabus is not only timely for young and not so young Australian musicians now clamouring to know more about jazz-it is an attractive, well-thought through compilation of 'real' jazz knowledge that will get authentic results. * Associate Professor Patrick Crichton, Head of Jazz Studies, Western Australian Conservatorium of Mus *The arrival of the Associated Board's jazz syllabus marks a vital step towards recognition that jazz requires study and discipline like any other art form. * Stuart Nicholson, Author 'Jazz Rock: a History' and 'Billie Holiday' *A musical revolution that should make every jazz lover leap for joy. * The Guardian *Table of ContentsBlue Monk [Theolonius Monk] ; Three-Four Blues [Bill Kinghorn] ; Oscar's Boogaloo [Charles Beale] ; Freddie Freeloader [Miles Davis] ; Footprints [Wayne Shorter] ; I'm Beginning to see the Light [Duke Ellington / Harry James / Johnny Hodges / Don George] ; Lazy River [Hoagy Carmichael / Sidney Arodin] ; Nobody knows the Trouble I've seen [Trad.] ; Undecided [Charlie Shavers] ; Original Rags [Joplin] ; Shh! [Charles Beale] ; In a different Light [Phil Peskett] ; Heading Home [Chris Batchelor] ; Blues for Pete Johnson [Liam Noble] ; IKON (Memories of Ike) [John Myhill]

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'I can be scratching around at home on an acoustic guitar, or singing a funny little idea into my phone, and all of a sudden, it becomes a beautiful fully fledged song. And I'm asking myself, how did we do that again? I still find that fascinating. It's magic.' - PAUL WELLER In Magic: A Journal of Song, Paul Weller talks about his life and music through a personally curated selection of over 100 songs spanning his entire musical career. As one of the most innovative and remarkable songwriters of the last 50 years, Paul Weller has proved to be the ultimate shapeshifter, moving from The Jam's punk sensibilities to the genre-defying Style Council, and later through a remarkable 30-year solo career. Alongside Lennon and McCartney, Weller is one of few artists that has attained a UK number one album over five consecutive decades, and has also received career defining awards from the BRITs (Lifetime Achievement Award), NME Awards (Godlike Genius Award) and a GQ Award for Songwriter of the Year. Magic: A Journal of Song is the definitive book of Weller's songwriting career from founding The Jam in his teenage years, to creating The Style Council, through to his years as a solo musician. Offering unprecedented insight into Weller's creative process, his lyrics are accompanied by more than 450 photographs and items of memorabilia, and an illuminating commentary of over 25,000 words. As told to journalist and author, Dylan Jones, Magic is Paul Weller's most candid and intimate account of his musical life to date. 'Paul Weller has proved that he is not only beyond reproach, in some senses he is quite possibly without equal.' - DYLAN JONES OBE 'The thing I have discovered is that music in its truest sense is beyond any trend or movement or category.' - PAUL WELLER

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Beach Boys: All The Songs is a detailed look at the recorded output of this most unique and influential popular music group. From the 1962 debut Surfin' Safari through to 2012's That's Why God Made the Radio - the first record Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys had made together in sixteen years. This book covers all the material released by the major labels. To qualify, a song must have been issued commercially and released under the name "Beach Boys." Some of the truly obscure are included, such as `Howdy from Maui', a collaboration with Jeff Foxworthy from 1996. As well as covering the highest UK and US chart placings, each album is dissected with explanations on each song including songwriting credits and also includes background information to the making of each album. Documented in chronological order, each album release is given its own chapter and "orphaned" tracks such as B-sides and outtakes are also included within the appropriate time line. Author Rick Swan also provides bios for the key band members as well as the supporting musicians and the book is capped off with a full song title index for easy reference. Whether you are just starting out on your discovery of The Beach Boys or a longstanding fan, this detailed tome provides great insight into this most enduring band.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

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 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 SynopsisPop Rock Icons takes us into the extraordinary world of London, England at the time of the greatest countercultural upheaval that the country has known. A real musical revolution began at the beginning of the 1960s, led by the Beatles, further ignited by the Rolling Stones and many others. The incredible rise of rock music continued until the end of the 1970s, when Punk arrived and launched a new wave of DIY rebellion. In photographs which capture the spirit of the times, [re]discover the optimism of the Beatles; the Stones' dark rhythm'n'blues; the energy of The Who; the innovation of prog rock with Pink Floyd and Genesis, as well as the explosive heavy metal of Black Sabbath and Deep Purple. The 70s gave us the glam rock of T Rex and the gritty pub rock of Dr Feelgood, without forgetting the rock giants: Led Zeppelin, Queen, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and the unclassifiable David Bowie.Trade Review"...this lavishly illustrated book is not only a treat for rock fans, it's a veritable study guide for the budding bohemian fashionista." - Zoe Howe, author of Lee Brilleaux: Rock 'n' Roll Gentleman and more; "a very tastefully designed volume with a wide scope that embraces rhythm and blues, pure pop, guitar heroes, 'prog', heavy metal, glam and pub rock... It's a tremendously eclectic gallery of off-duty movers and shakers" - Russell Newmark, The Beat Magazine; "Why collate a photography collection of musicians? The answer is simple because "fashion was driven by music and musicians" in the 60s & 70s. Furthermore, the choice of photographs selected are more than just savvy promotional photo shoots. For instance, The Beatles are captured together playing pitch and putt, looking rather unsophisticated. The alluring presence of the late founder of The Rolling Stones, Brian Jones, came across, and it was a wise choice to include all Rolling Stones images with him in them. There is even a photograph of Jones with John Lennon and Yoko Ono with a nervous-looking young Julian Lennon. Standing in the background is Roger Daltrey.... Best of all, through the forum of music, we see how a diverse generation during the "London's Swingin' 60s & 70s" discover who they truly were."- Michael Barron, xsnoize; "rock fans of every generation will enjoy flicking through photos of stars in their finery given a certain je ne sais quoi in full colour plates." - Claudia Elliott, Classic Rock Magazine; Pop Rock Icons by Philippe Margotin is one of those exceptional photo books every good household interested in rock needs because it showcases rock history through eye-peeling photos captured by some of the best photographers of the era. The book embraces the '60s and 70s era that was probably most fruitful for the genres such as classic rock, pop rock, hard rock, progressive rock, heavy metal, pub rock, and glam rock. Pop Rock Icons explores all these music genres through high-quality photography, longevous preludes into every section of the book, brief information about every band, fun facts, and other trivia you unquestionably need to know about some of the greatest names of the rock scene."- Djordje Miladinovic, Thoughts Words Action; "The book takes you on a wonderful journey into the history of British rock music, specifically focusing on the freedom and trends in the country's capital city, London. It starts and takes you through the 60s with game changers who led the musical revolution in the early 60s, which was marshalled by The Beatles and further erupted by The Rolling Stones, amongst others. Philippe has done a sublime job of collating the best and signature photographs to embody the time for musical significance, culture, and fashion. It takes you on a nostalgic trip, offers an insightful look into the spirit of that time, and demonstrates the crucial milestones of those who set the foundations of rock and metal in Britain. "- Carina Lawrence, Mad About Rock magazine; "Many of the 'icons' such as the Rolling Stones and the Who came from west London and made their names playing clubs in Richmond, Teddington and Ealing, and Pop Rock Icons; London's Swingin' 60s and 70s has pictures of them rehearsing, relaxing, just being themselves as well as the set piece publicity images published to promote their tours and albums. The book starts with the Stones and the Beatles and makes its way through the London of the Mods and the Anglification of R&B to the eras of progressive rock, heavy metal, pub rock and glam rock... I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and looking at the pictures." - Bridget Osborne, The Chiswick Calendar; seizes Zeitgeist of the '60 and '70s almost perfectly. Coffee books rarely are so engrossing. - DMME; "A beautiful book for fans of Rock 60's and 70's. Behind a fairly common brood hides a splendid collection of photographs of rock icons of the 60's and 70's. We meet among others Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards, the Yardbirds. The books is recommended to fans of British Rock but also to those who are interested in the fashion of the 60's". Rated: ***** - Nicolas Coupannec, Bookseller at Decitre; "A hugely fascinating book. One in which all music fans can find something to lose themselves in." - Craig Campbell, Louder Than War; "Book with nice photos that makes a great Christmas present for my husband"--Valeri c fnac

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 SynopsisThis fully illustrated book celebrates the captivating lives of legendary figures who revolutionised music, from Elvis and Hendrix to Bowie and Jagger. Authored by music journalist Kathy McCabe and featuring stunning images from renowned rock photographer Tony Mott, this book makes the perfect gift for any rock music enthusiast.

Read more less

Book SynopsisListen to My Heart is a completely candid and passionate, heartbreaking yet often witty life story of one of rock music’s most resilient lead singers, Marie Fredriksson from Roxette ("It Must Have Been Love," "Listen to Your Heart," "The Look," "Joyride").Given only a few months to live following a harrowing diagnosis in 2002, Marie boldly forged ahead into a life with newfound courage and inspiration. She continued as both a solo singer and with Roxette, where she performed over 550 concerts, sold 75 million records, and released over 50 singles including several global hits. In all, Roxette is Sweden’s biggest music group—second only to ABBA.Filled with behind-the-scenes stories involving everyone from Tina Turner and Elton John to The Rolling Stones and Frank Sinatra, Listen to My Heart also explores her humble family beginnings, an early tragedy in the sudden loss of Marie’s sister, her transition into the music industry as a solo artist, and the formation and challenges of being in one of the world’s most successful pop groups. All while trying to maintain a stable marriage and being a mother to two young children in the face of a life-altering illness. Marie passed away in the aftermath of her diagnosis in December, 2019.Heart-wrenching yet winning, and told with exceptional energy and sincerity, Listen to My Heart sheds new and revelatory light on the life and work of one of our generation’s most talented and courageous artists.Contains a foreword by Marie’s longtime friend, director Jonas Akerlund (Madonna, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, U2) and over 100 personal photographs, live and backstage shots, and memorabilia images.Trade Review"Singer-songwriter Marie Fredriksson (1958–2019) offers a heartbreakingly candid recollection of her early life, pop career [including many years with Roxette], and struggle with illness in this posthumous memoir. Fredriksson more than delivers on her stated mission to ‘share her moments of transcendence and offer consolation to those full of doubt’ by cataloging her favorite performances and refusing to let her diagnosis overshadow her career. Anecdotes about celebrities from Elton John to Frank Sinatra are just the cherry on top. Pop music fans will treasure this." — Publishers Weekly"Fredriksson's frustration at being discounted in the men-dominated music industry and her attempts to find alternative lifesaving treatments makes for an engaging read. Most poignant is her vulnerability as she opens her closets and photo albums that showcase a life well lived." — Library Journal

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less