Popular music Books
Orion Publishing Co Eagles Dark Desert Highway
Book Synopsis''This could be heaven or this could be hell...''So sings Don Henley on their biggest hit, ''Hotel California'', and it is true that the Eagles story was one that blurred the ultimate Hollywood highs and subterranean LA lows beyond recognition. The band that embodied the American dream with globe-straddling success, impossibly luxurious lives, almost supernatural talent also descended into nightmare with bloodletting betrayal, hate-filled hubris, the skeletons of perceived enemies, brutally discarded lovers and former band mates left unburied on the road behind them. The story of the Eagles is a truly gothic American fable: one of ultimate power and rivers of money; of sex and drugs at a time when both were the lingua-franca of sophisticated So-Cal living; of a band who sang of peaceful easy feelings in public while threatening to kill each other in private.Now, for the first time, esteemed music biographer Mick Wall will provide the definitivTrade ReviewMick Wall treats us to a savvy, authoritative chronicle of the flight of the Eagles, immersing us in the heady world of the Laurel Canyon scene and the other aspiring musicians who would rise to fame together. The Eagles persevered through obscurity and management and recording challenges to finally realize their dream, but the brilliance of their songwriting and musicianship was juxtaposed with the menacing tide of cocaine abuse, a broken brotherhood, and too much money. The Eagles: Dark Desert Highway is a comprehensive history of a band that burned so bright, yet finally succumbed to the heat. * Sandra B. Tooze, author of Levon: From Down in the Delta to the Birth of the Band and Beyond *
£10.44
Abrams The Motherlode
Book SynopsisAn illustrated highlight reel of more than 100 women in rap who have helped shape the genre and eschewed gender norms in the process, The Motherlode “shines a bright light on a history of overlooked female talent and breaks down the ingenuity of our current generation of stars” (Issa Rae, creator and star of HBO’s Insecure). Clover Hope’s comprehensive history showcases more than 100 women who have shaped the power, scope, and reach of rap music, including pioneers like Roxanne Shanté, game changers like Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliott, and current reigning queens like Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Lizzo—as well as everyone who came before, after, and in between. Some of these women were respected but not widely celebrated. Some are impossible not to know. Some of these women have stood on their own; others were forced into templates, compelled to stand beside men in big rap crews. Some have been trapped in a sTrade Review"This is the quintessential, comprehensive book about women in the rap industry that I've been waiting for. It shines a bright light on a history of overlooked female talent and breaks down the ingenuity of our current generation of stars." -- Issa Rae
£16.19
Little, Brown & Company Mo Meta Blues
Book SynopsisThe World According to QuestloveMo'' Meta Blues is a punch-drunk memoir in which Everyone''s Favorite Questlove tells his own story while tackling some of the lates, the greats, the fakes, the philosophers, the heavyweights, and the true originals of the music world. He digs deep into the album cuts of his life and unearths some pivotal moments in black art, hip hop, and pop culture.Ahmir ''Questlove'' Thompson is many things: virtuoso drummer, producer, arranger, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon bandleader, DJ, composer, and tireless Tweeter. He is one of our most ubiquitous cultural tastemakers, and in this, his first book, he reveals his own formative experiences--from growing up in 1970s West Philly as the son of a 1950s doo-wop singer, to finding his own way through the music world and ultimately co-founding and rising up with the Roots, a.k.a., the last hip hop band on Earth. Mo'' Meta Blues also has some (many) random (or not) mu
£13.49
Little, Brown Book Group Cowboy Song
Book Synopsis''The truest measure of the man we have thus far'' - Mojo''Affectionate, impeccably researched biography'' - Mail on Sunday''Head and shoulders above the usual rock hagiography'' - Sunday TelegraphThe first biography to be written with the cooperation of the Lynott Estate, Cowboy Song is the definitive authorised account of the extraordinary life and career of Thin Lizzy guiding spirit, Philip Lynott.Leading music writer Graeme Thomson explores the fascinating contradictions between Lynott''s unbridled rock star excesses and the shy, sensitive ''orphan'' raised in working class Dublin. The mixed-race child of a Catholic teenager and a Guyanese stowaway, Lynott rose above daunting obstacles and wounding abandonments to become Ireland''s first rock star. Cowboy Song examines his key musical alliances as well as the unique blend of cultural influences which informed Lynott''s writing, connecting IreTrade ReviewAn affectionate and unflinching book on Lynott ... It's the substantive flesh Thomson puts on the bones of Lynott's personal life, though, that makes Cowboy Song the truest measure of the man we have thus far - and a must-read for anybody ever smitten by Lizzy's fatally-flawed romantic * James McNair, Mojo *Well researched ... poignant ... revealing * RTE Guide *A genuinely sympathetic portrait * Uncut *An admirable book ... there are times when Graeme Thomson's prose reaches astute heights and stirs recognitions -- James O’Connor Irish TimesAffectionate, impeccably researched biography ... an impressively well-rounded story -- Geoff Barton Mail on SundayHead and shoulders above the usual rock hagiography -- Neil Armstrong, Sunday TelegraphOutstanding -- John Spain, Belfast TelegraphEven non-Thin Lizzy fans will find much to fascinate in Cowboy Song. Thomson's account ... is absorbing * Irish Examiner *Packs a real emotional punch * Spectator *An excellent, painstaking life ... Crowther's afterword about her errant bad-boy hubbie and their "beautiful, strong, funny, creative and loving girls ... of whom he would be so very, very proud" brought tears to my eyes -- Barney Hoskyns, GuardianCowboy Song goes further - uncovering how Lynott's race, country, and complex family life fed into his singular poetry and music -- Michael Curle, Irish PostEngrossing ... a candid depiction of a complicated soul -- David Burke, Rock’n’ReelFascinating -- Edel Coffey, Belfast Telegraph
£11.69
Hal Leonard Corporation George Jones
Book SynopsisGeorge Jones''s nearly 60-year recording and performing career has had a profound influence on modern country music and influenced a younger generation of singers including Garth Brooks Alan Jackson Randy Travis Tim McGraw and Trace Adkins. As Merle Haggard said of Jones in ÊRolling StoneÊ magazine His voice was like a Stradivarius violin: one of the greatest instruments ever made. ÞJones''s saga is a larger-than-life tale of rags to riches and back to rags again. He was born into near poverty in a backwater patch of East Texas. His formal education ended early; by his early teens he was singing on the streets of Beaumont Texas for tips. After beginning to record in the mid-1950s Jones became by sheer dint of his vocal prowess one of Nashville''s most celebrated honky-tonk singers. But from the start Jones''s life as often reflected in his music was shaped by misdirection chaos turmoil and emotional strife aggravated by a ferocious appetite for alcohol. Fame and adula
£18.04
Globe Pequot Dion
Book Synopsis
£27.00
Hal Leonard Corporation Queen for Classical Piano
Book Synopsis(Piano Solo Personality). 15 ever-popular hits from Queen are presented in classical piano solo arrangements by Phillip Keveren. Songs include: Another One Bites the Dust * Bicycle Race * Bohemian Rhapsody * Brighton Rock * Crazy Little Thing Called Love * Flash''s Theme (Flash) * Killer Queen * Radio Ga Ga * Somebody to Love * Tie Your Mother Down * Under Pressure * We Are the Champions * We Will Rock You * Who Wants to Live Forever * You''re My Best Friend.
£17.09
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Siouxsie and the Banshees Peepshow
Book SynopsisIn 1978, Siouxsie and the Banshees declared We don't see ourselves in the same context as other rock''n''roll bands.' A decade later, and in the stark aftermath of a devastating storm, the band retreated to a 17th-century mansion house in the deracinated Sussex countryside to write their ninth studio album, Peepshow. Here, the band absorbed the bygone, rural atmosphere and its inspirational mise en scène, thus framing the record cinematically, as Siouxsie Sioux recalled, It was as if we were doing the whole thing on the set of The Wicker Man'.Samantha Bennett looks at how Siouxsie and the Banshees' Peepshow is better understood in the context of film and film music (as opposed to popular music studies or, indeed, the works of other rock''n''roll bands). Drawing upon more than one hundred films and film scores, this book focuses on Peepshow's deeply embedded historical and aesthetic (para)cinematic influences: How is each track a reflectiTrade ReviewHer argument is strong and well researched. With so much forethought and evidence provided it’s easy to agree with Bennett before you finish the book. * Chicago Music *The book is both well-conceived and excellently written ... Peepshow makes a valuable contribution to punk and post-punk academic discourse. It takes the reader beyond the framing of Siouxsie Sioux as merely an objectified punk icon in seriously considering the Banshees as a fully functioning band with a musical output that clearly warrants further academic study. For that achievement alone Bennett deserves accolade but her use of a cross-disciplinary approach to frame her argument is one those engaged in academic study should recognize and embrace. * Punk & Post-Punk *Table of ContentsTrack Listing mise en scéne Early Cinema Noir Musical Vaudeville Western Fantasy Horror Epic Acknowledgments Films Cited Notes
£9.49
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Not for You
Book SynopsisRonen Givony is the author of 24 Hour Revenge Therapy (or, The Strange Death of Selling Out), part of Bloomsbury's 33 1/3 series. He is the founder of New York's Wordless Music series and orchestra (wordlessmusic.org) which the Village Voice named the city's Best Moderately Snooty Concert Series and a contributor of liner notes for Nonesuch, Constellation, Thrill Jockey, and Temporary Residence. A native of South Florida, he has worked as a producer for concert venues and music festivals in the US and abroad.Trade ReviewGivony trenchantly argues that Pearl Jam haven’t made a great album since 1998. Yet his sometimes contentious analysis is always delivered with a wry snap and bolstered by diligent sociocultural contextualisation, pinpointing one aspect of the band’s appeal; they’re more ‘for you’ than might initially appear to be the case. -- Keith Cameron * MOJO *[A] hefty and impressive work, digging into its subject with the kind of relentlessness any fan will appreciate… A thoughtful celebration of a band who’s still going strong, and should even be of interest to non-PJ fans, especially if they have an interest in alt rock of the ‘90s. * Record Collector News *Near perfect Pearl Jam prose… 'Not For You: Pearl Jam and the Present Tense' is a book every Pearl Jam fan needs to read. Not only is it an excellent biography it is also the definitive unofficial Pearl Jam book for fans of the Last Grunge Band Standing.™ * Guerrilla Candy *Brilliantly contextualises the early ’90s socio-political climate from which the grunge icons emerged. It paints a vivid portrait … Not For You is a compelling examination of one of modern rock’s most enduring and compelling groups. -- Kate Brayden * Hot Press *[A]n insightful work for many reasons, not least its temperate analysis of fandom. Author Ronen Givony never forgets the whys and wherefores of the Seattle outfit and of how from their early days in the 1990s, despite their status as one of the mostpopular US acts, they sidelined traditional commercial channels in favour of servicing their fans … Givony incisively reflects on th[is] and more, but the primary selling point is what the band have meant to their fans across the years and the often-profound bonds that can be made. -- Tony Clayton-Lea * The Irish Times *The strength of Givony’s book lies in his readiness to make the tough call. His book is unreservedly opinionated, as so few these days are … Givony proves himself a master of the bon mot, the memorable soundbite, demonstrating ample literary chops throughout. If I had room, I’d quote a hundred worthy passages. -- Des Cowley * Rhythm Magazine *CHOICE Magazine’s “New Year Reads” 2021 * CHOICE *CBC’s “18 Books for the Holiday Season” * CBC *Any music fan will almost certainly love this book… Givony’s writing is captivating and entertaining… Not For You takes the reader on a deeply personal and at times almost professional journey through the life and times of Pearl Jam, from not a journalistic perspective, but one far more important – that of a genuine fan. * PopWrapped *An enjoyable book and, as a non-fan, I found myself coming around to their music and what they were trying to achieve. Whether you love them or not, it is clear they were trying to be genuine and reach out to their fans. -- Simon Cocking * Irish Tech News *Ronen Givony's Not for You does what Givony would like Pearl Jam to do: it rises above its immediate purpose. It is a critical annotation to a body of work which lifts off the ground and becomes an extravagant performance about time, rebellion, fame, disenchantment, civil discourse, the idea of the mainstream, the desire of a fan, and what a band can do to answer it. * Ben Ratliff, author of Every Song Ever *Table of ContentsIntroduction: A Personal Preface 1 The Cast 2 A Dozen Moments in the Prehistory of Pearl Jam 3 The Bacchanal, San Diego (November 21, 1989) 4 The Off Ramp, Seattle (October 22, 1990) 5 “Jeremy,” “Garden,” “Yellow Ledbetter” (1991) 6 J.C. Dobbs, Philadelphia (July 12, 1991) 7 The Palladium, Hollywood (October 6, 1991) 8 Cow Palace, San Francisco (December 31, 1991) 9 MTV Unplugged (March 16, 1992) 10 Pinkpop Festival, Holland (June 8, 1992) 11 The Singles Soundtrack (1992) 12 Stadio Flaminio, Rome (July 6, 1993) 13 Lakefront Arena, New Orleans (November 16, 1993) 14 Hints, Allegations, and Things Left Unsaid (1993) 15 Civic Center, Pensacola (March 9, 1994) 16 Bayfront Amphitheater, Miami (March 28, 1994) 17 Patriot Center, Fairfax (April 8, 1994) 18 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington DC (June 30, 1994) 19 Dave (1994) 20 Self-Pollution Radio (January 8, 1995) 21 Soldier Field, Chicago (July 11, 1995) 22 38th Annual Grammy Awards (February 28, 1996) 23 Cox Arena, San Diego (July 10, 1998) 24 Binaural and the Battle of Seattle (1999) 25 Roskilde Festival, Denmark (June 30, 2000) 26 Madison Square Garden (October 15, 2000) 27 Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale (April 30, 2003) 28 Thin Air (2006—2013) 29 Tomas Young and Body of War (2005—2014) 30 Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia (April 29, 2016) 31 Altice Arena, Lisbon (June 20, 2019) Afterword (For Chris Cornell) In Memoriam Acknowledgments Bibliography Index About the Author
£30.00
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Hilltop Hoods The Calling
Book SynopsisDianne Rodger is a Hip-Hop fan and lecturer in anthropology at the University of Adelaide, Australia. Her research and teaching spans fields including youth culture, digital media, and health with a sustained focus on Hip-Hop culture in Australia. She began researching Hip-Hop in the mid-2000s when she completed an ethnographic study of the Adelaide and Melbourne Hip-Hop scenes. Subsequent works have explored First Nations Hip-Hop including the social media practices and impact of A.B. Original (co-authored with Dr. Suzi Hutchings) and Hip-Hop workshops for First Nations young people in Adelaide. She is currently researching the histories of Hip-Hop in Australia, work that also informs her examination of The Calling (2003).Table of ContentsAcknowledgement of Country Acknowledgements Preface 1. Introduction 2. Origin Stories – Hip-Hop in Australia and the Hilltop Hoods’ Biography 3. Hip-Hop Devotion – ‘Testimonial Year’ and ‘The Calling’ 4. Punchlines and Funky Beats – ‘Dumb Enough?’ and ‘The Nosebleed Section’ 5. Rocking the Party – Live Performances 6. Underground Politics – ‘Walk On’ and ‘Illusionary Lines’ 7. Posse Tracks and Battle Raps – ‘The Certificate’ 8. Conclusion – ‘The Sentinel’ References Index
£16.99
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Michael Jackson's Dangerous
Book SynopsisDangerous is Michael Jackson's coming of age album. Granted, that’s a bold claim to make given that many think his best work lay behind him by the time this record was made. It offers Jackson on a threshold, at long last embracing adulthood—politically questioning, sexually charged—yet unable to convince a skeptical public who had, by this time, been wholly indoctrinated by a vicious media. Even though the record sold well, few understood or were willing to accept the depth and breadth of Jackson’s vision; and then before it could be fully grasped, it was eclipsed by a shifting pop music landscape and personal scandal—the latter perhaps linked to his assertive new politics. This book tries to cut through the din of dominant narratives about Jackson, taking up the mature, nuanced artistic statement he offered on Dangerous in all its complexity. It is read here as a concept album, one that offers a compelling narrative arc of postmodern angst, love, lust, seduction, betrayal, damnation, and above all else racial politics, in ways heretofore unseen in his music. This record offered a Michael Jackson that was mystifying for a world that had accepted him as a child and as childlike and, hence, as safe; this Michael Jackson was, indeed, dangerous.Trade ReviewVirtually all of his creative moments were moments of transition, and Ms. Fast makes a strong argument that “Dangerous” was among his most disruptive. In this book, the 100th entry in Bloomsbury’s 33 1/3 series, each one devoted to a single album, Ms. Fast employs close readings of lyrics, musical production choices and video presentations to underscore little discussed aspects of Jackson’s creative output. So she breaks “Dangerous” into thematically rich sections: Jackson breaking with his old self, then switching to familiar modes to make bold political statements and then coming full circle. -- Jon Caramanica * The New York Times *Throughout this book’s 144 pages Fast certainly makes plenty of compelling arguments as to why ‘Dangerous’ represents a true coming of age album for Jackson as well as perhaps his most ambitious and experimental collection, but one that didn’t really get a chance to be appreciated or properly understood before it was eclipsed by the media circus that soon engulfed Jackson’s entire life. -- Chris Downton * Cyclic Defrost *As a musicologist, [Fast] is quite capable of writing about the complexity of Jackson's music, offering a clear insight into his process. By placing the work in a cultural context: racism, politics, gender and sexuality, she also offers the non-musician an excellent read and good critical insight. Mostly because she makes crystal clear that Jackson knew exactly what he was doing as a writer and performer, his versatile voice and body combining high and low art to convey a serious message. Fast's analysis also makes it clear that Jackson was able to ingeniously communicate his message through the compilation of the album itself. This book offers a much-needed in-depth analysis of Jackson's music and art…Highly recommended. -- Karin Merx * Cultural Studies *Susan Fast's new monograph on Michael Jackson's Dangerous album is an utterly compelling, utterly intelligent reassessment of Jackson's oft-maligned record of 1991 and a challenge to anyone who thinks that they have a grasp on Jackson's controversial art. Fast has an arsenal of literary theorists to help her support her claim (Gates, Foucault), but her writing style-like the Jackson album that is her subject-is dangerous. I can't think of a 33 1/3 book that's written with so much verve, so much life that the deployment of tough theory and philosophy is swept away in the author's passionate prose. -- Paul Gleason * Stereo Embers *Fast has provided a model for how to reach a broader audience with scholarly writing. * Journal of the Society for American Music *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction. Telling Stories About Michael Jackson Chapter One. Noise Chapter Two. Desire Chapter Three. Utopia Chapter Four. Soul Coda: Dangerous Notes
£9.49
Microcosm Publishing More Punk Than the Public Library
£12.75
Insight Editions Rush: Wandering The Face of The Earth: The
Book Synopsis2020 IBPA Awards Winner! Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, and Neil Peart performed together for the first time to an audience of 11,000 people in 1974. Forty years later, their last tour sold over 442,000 tickets. This is the story of everything in between. This is the story of Rush. Fondly known as the Holy Triumvirate, Rush is one of the top bands to shine through rock-and-roll history. Wandering the Face of the Earth covers Rush’s storied touring career, from their humble beginnings as a Toronto-area bar band playing middle school gymnasiums to their rise as one of the world’s most sought-after live acts, selling out massive arenas around the globe. This book includes every setlist, every opening act, and every noteworthy moment meticulously researched and vetted by the band themselves. Along with spectacular, never-before-seen imagery, this is THE must-have tour compendium for Rush fans. —In Loving Memory, Neil Ellwood Peart 1952-2020
£33.60
Fonthill Media Ltd Kylie Song by Song
Book SynopsisFrom 'Neighbours' TV teen queen to Stock Aitken Waterman's megastar, the rise of Kylie Minogue to the top of the charts is one of the biggest smash hit success stories in pop music. Across 15 studio albums her transition from SexKylie (with help from Michael Hutchence) to IndieKylie (thanks to Nick Cave and Manic Street Preachers), then to undisputed Princess of Pop (courtesy of the irresistible 'Can't Get You Out Of My Head') proved she was not just an actress, a singer and a remarkable live performer (including Glastonbury Goddess), but a true global superstar. After successfully beating cancer, Kylie returned to the top with several big-selling albums, including the critically lauded 'The Abbey Road Sessions', festive fave 'Kylie Christmas' and 2020's history-making 'Disco'. This book is an exhaustive "step back in time" through her complete 'Katalogue' across five poptastic decades. Every released track and collab from her 300+ song catalogue - many self-penned or co-written - over 35 years is examined in detail with new insights, revelations & vital video/remix information. 'Kylie: Song By Song' celebrates this unique artist's truly remarkable and unparalleled career and is a must-have for every dedicated fan of the lucky, lucky, lucky Australian pop princess.Table of ContentsIntroduction; About This Book; Acknowledgements; Glad To Be Getting Closer In Oz Era (1985-1987); Kylie Album/Especially For You Single Era (1988); Enjoy Yourself Album Era (1989); Rhythm Of Love Album Era (1990); Let's Get To It Album Era (1991); Greatest Hits Compilation Era (1992); Kylie Minogue Album Era (1994); Where The Wild Roses Grow Single/Impossible Princess Album Era (1997); Intimate & Live Album & More Era (1998-2000); Light Years Album Era (2000); Fever Album Era (2001); Body Language Album Era (2003); Ultimate Kylie Compilation Era (2004); The X Files Era (The Unofficial Xtra Tracks); X Album Era (2006-2008); Boombox Compilation & More Era (2008-2010); Aphrodite Album Era (2010-2011); Abbey Road Sessions Album & More Era (2012-2013); Kiss Me Once Album + Garibay & More Era (2013-2015); Kylie Christmas & Snow Queen Edition Albums Era (2015-2017); Golden Album Era (2018); Step Back In Time: The Definitive Collection Compilation Era (2019); Disco Album Era (2020); Appendix I: Kylie Kompletists; Appendix II: Kylie Koncerts; Appendix III: Kylie's Brit Hit List (1987-2020); About the Author.
£16.20
Poetry Wales Press Wonderboy
Book Synopsis
£9.49
Bonnier Books UK Mania
Book SynopsisStuart Woods love of music was ignited at fourteen when he, along with three schoolmates, formed a band. By the time he turned fifteen, he had left school to pursue a career as an electrician, blissfully unaware of the whirlwind that awaited him. Suddenly, he found himself living the life of a superstar, whisked away in limousines, pursued by frenzied fans on every continent, and thrust into the ranks of one of the bestselling artists in history.Between 1971 and 1975, Edinburghs Bay City Rollers achieved ten top 10 hit singles, four top 10 albums, two number-one singles and two number-one albums. For five years, they were the biggest pop teen sensation since the Beatles. But the music industry was not all glitz and glamour. Stuart had no inkling of the ruthless machinery behind the scenes, exploiting his talent and dreams for financial gain. Nor could he have foreseen the dark secrets surrounding his manager Tam Paton and his sinister agenda. Rollermania swept the globe, the Bay City Rollers conquered hearts and charts, selling a staggering 120 million records. While many claim to know the full Rollermania story, for the first time, Stuart - one of the few people who lived it - tells his story. Mania! Is a celebration of the worlds original boy band and their enduring legacy, a rollercoaster ride through fame, fortune and the unforgettable music that defined an era.
£18.70
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Us Against Whatever
Book SynopsisAnna is starting to think she made a mistake in moving to Hull. Steph sees her city changing and misses her dad. Both are looking for somewhere to call home and something to believe in. And Sheila? She’s determined to bring people together again, the only way she knows how – karaoke! ‘Cause what we need right now is to get up on our feet, grab a mic together and belt out a ballad after a pint or five. From Pride in Poland and Windass at Wembley, to City of Culture and Brexit Britain, Us Against Whatever is an electrifying cabaret about the places we keep in our hearts, with support from Hull’s finest voices – you!
£12.28
Headline Publishing Group The Little Book of the Beatles: Quips and Quotes
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.
£6.99
Omnibus Press John Lennon, 1980: The Final Days
Book SynopsisJohn Lennon, 1980: The Final Days in the Life of Beatle John tells the story of the legendary musician’s incredible last year. For Lennon, 1980 had begun as a ceaseless shopping spree in which he and wife Yoko Ono fell into the doldrums of purchasing blue-chip real estate and indulging their every whim. But for John, that pivotal year would climax in several moments of creative triumph as he rediscovered his artistic self in dramatic fashion, only to be cut down by an assassin’s bullets on Monday, December 8th, 1980, in the prime of a new life that was only just beginning to blossom.
£13.49
Samuel French Ltd A Christmas Carol
Book SynopsisPretty, singable music, witty lyrics and plenty of scope for dancing and colorful staging make this musical version of a well loved story a real piece of Christmas cheer. Tremble with Scrooge at the sight of Marley''s ghost and rejoice with him when he sees the errors of his ways, feel sorry for Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim, and take comfort from the good spirits of Christmas who make everything right in the end.Large flexible cast
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd Dream Date
Book SynopsisDream Date is a teenage comic-strip magazine which crams its pages, and the heads of some of those who read it, with glamorous fantasies of romance, pop stars and boyfriends. Contrasted with this is the central character, Kathy, a sixteen year old who has turn her back on her own life and friends in search of a fantastic Mr. Right, as personified in the feature articles of Dream Date.Large flexible cast
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd First Time A Musical Acting Edition S
Book SynopsisThis original and enjoyable show is best described as a musical revue which takes a light hearted look at the first time experience and feelings all of us have or will come up against. Each song and sketch is associated with the word 'first' in one way or another-- First Child, First Job, First Glance, First Family Christmas, First Bite(!). The show can be presented simply but effectively on an open stage, and the large number of characters provides the opportunity for a mixed cast to play a variety of interesting parts, with doubling. A great success in England.9 women, 9 men
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd The Hired Man
Book SynopsisBased on Melvyn Bragg''s stirring novel of rural and industrial working life early in the twentieth century, The Hired Man tells of one family''s - Bragg''s grandparents'' - journey from land laborers to colliers and back to the land. The superb score is a marvelous succession of chorales, operatic duets and vigorous foot stomping rhythms.5 women, 14 men
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd A Slice of Saturday Night
Book SynopsisThe Heather Brothers'' homage to swinging sixties music was a smash hit at the King''s Head Theatre and it enjoyed a long run after transferring to London''s Arts Theatre.-5 women, 4 men
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd Scrooge The Musical
Book SynopsisIn 1970, renowned writer-composer-lyricist Leslie Bricusse adapted the classic Charles Dickens tale, A Christmas Carol, into the hit screen musical Scrooge!. Now available as a charming stage musical, Scrooge! has enjoyed a hugely successful tour of England and a season at London''s Dominion Theatre starring the late Anthony Newly. Included are six new songs not performed in the film. Now this sure-fire audience pleaser is available in two versions: as a full-length musical and in a 55-minute adaptation that is ideal for small theatre groups and schools, where it can be performed as a short play or as part of a seasonal concert.Large flexible cast
£14.11
Samuel French Ltd Sherlock Holmes
Book SynopsisBased on characters created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle--Cover.
£11.99
Samuel French Ltd A Tale of Two Cities
Book SynopsisDickens''s novel of the French Revolution, A Tale of Two Cities, is brought vividly to life in this musical adaptation, which was successfully premi?red at the Thameside Youth Theatre in January 1990.6 women, 13 men
£12.76
Concord Theatricals, Ltd Pickwick A Musical Play Acting Edition S
Book Synopsis
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd Moll Flanders
Book SynopsisDaniel Defoe''s famous eighteenth-century novel about a girl born in Newgate Gaol: Twelve Year a Whore, Five Times a Wife (whereof once to her own Brother), Twelve Year a Thief, Eight Year a Transported Felon in Virginia whoat last grew Riche, liv''d in Honest and died a Penitent is brought to the stage in this rumbustious musical written by Claire Luckham.4 women, 5 men
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd Shake Ripple and Roll
Book SynopsisChildren''s Musical / Cast: 10 principals, chorusScenery: Unit setThis exuberant, fun packed musical written for a large cast of young people features a glitzy rock ''n'' roll score and plenty of action. Unless Joey Nobody and private detective Dirk Manley find Angelo''s will in time, bogus heir Deanne la Domme, the glamorous film star, will sell Angelo''s New York ice cream parlour to Crazy Flavors. So get out the bobby socks and join Chuck and the gang as they rock in this sizzling hour long musical for schools and youth groups.
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd The Canterville Ghost
Book SynopsisWhen a brash American family stay at the gothic English stately home, Canterville Chase, they fail to be the least bit frightened by Sir Simon, a ghost who is condemned by a curse to haunt the house. The young Virginia, however, searches out the ghost and embarks on a mission to set him free.
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd The Selfish Giant
Book SynopsisA giant builds a high wall around his beautiful garden to prevent the children from playing in it. However, a valuable lesson is taught when the wall keeps the spring from returning and the garden remains in winter all year round. This is an adaptation of Oscar Wildes's short story.
£11.91
Samuel French Ltd Aladdin
Book SynopsisWritten for London''s Theatre Royal, Stratford East, this pantomime combines all the traditional elements with original characterisations, imaginative and innovative staging ideas and witty, melodic songs.-Large flexible cast
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd The Railway Children
Book SynopsisLarge mixed cast of children and adults. May be played by 5m 5f, plus extras. Various simple settings on an open stage E. Nesbit''s well-loved tale of the three Victorian children sent to live in the countryside with their mother after their father has been disgraced for supposedly betraying his country''s secrets is brought vividly to life in this new adaptation, losing nothing of the original spirit of humor, tension, adventure and the final triumph of good over evil. The addition of songs to the action helps to highlight in particular Bobbie''s rite of passage to adulthood from Christmas Is Here! and Posh Talk to Nothing to Fear and Nearly Autumn.
£12.76
Samuel French Ltd Worzel Gummidge
Book SynopsisFollowing the successful television series based on Barbara Euphan Todd''s children''s classic, Keith Waterhouse, Willis Hall and Denis King bring us a new, effervescent stage musical of the story of Worzel Gummidge. The naughty, petulant, greedy, yet always lovable scarecrow is here with all the familiar characters: Aunt Sally, Sergeant Beetroot and Sue and John. Brought to life by the Crowman, Worzel creates havoc and farce wherever he goes in his frenzied efforts to win Aunt Sally''s unwilling hand until he finds himself before the scarecrow court on a very serious charge. But the final resolution is a happy one with a birthday cake enormous enough to satisfy even Worzel''s appetite!5 women, 13 men
£12.76
Samuel French Inc Sherlock Holmes and the Curious Adventure of the
Book SynopsisA Victorian romp with music Cleve Haubold, Music by James Alfred Hitt.Characters: 6 male, 4 female Interior Set This Sherlock Holmes adventure in the style of Gilbert and Sullivan brings the great detective and Dr. Watson up against the evil wiles of that master of disguise, Sir Sullivan Sinister. The world of New Year''s Eve, 1899, in London is a sparkling background against which Holmes wrestles with the puzzle of the Clockwork Prince, a brass key held for ransom, a stolen formula and a curiously missing cook who is nowhere and everywhere at once. Holmes makes the most of his gifts of deduction and disguise in a riotous race against the stroke of midnight with fatal results. <
£999.99
Samuel French Inc Steel Pier
Book SynopsisGenre: Musical Characters: 7 males, 8 females, and chorus of 8 males and 5 females In the honky tonk world of marathon dancing in Atlantic City in 1933, a captivating assortment of depression era souls eager to dance their way into fame and prizes gather on the Steel Pier. The spectacle is presided over by an oily tongued emcee who is secretly married to Rita Racine, the champion dancer. Her usual partner doesn't show up, so she is paired with a handsome pilot on leave. As the hours of dancing whirl on, Rita becomes increasingly disillusioned with her sleazy, conniving husband and more and more infatuated with the handsome young aviator and a vision of life in a peaceful cottage. Songs by the creators of Chicago, Cabaret and other Broadway classics perfectly capture the rhythms of the 1930's dance era. Beautiful songs skillfully interwoven with the plot.- New York Daily News Spectacular.- New York Post Steeped in wistfulness.- New York Times
£999.99
Samuel French Inc Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Book SynopsisMusical comedy Based on the story by James Thurber Characters: 5 male, 6 female, and as many extras as desired. Scenery: Various simple sets (or one basic set). On his fortieth birthday Walter Mitty reflects on his drab, ordinary life. Defeated in his quest for wealth and glory by family responsibilities, a mortgage, and a routine job, he creates elaborate fantasies in which he is the hero. His secret world is so enticing that he often loses sight of the boundary between dream and reality and comically slips into his imagination. An attractive would be chanteuse aptly named Willa de Wisp encourages Walter to leave his wife, shed the burdens of suburban living and really live the secret life. Unfortunately it is as unattainable as it is appealing. At the end of the play Walter discovers that he is happily committed to the real world. A thoroughly pleasant musical evening.-- Time.
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
Book SynopsisMusicalBook by Larry L. King and Peter Masterson. Music and Lyrics by Carol Hall.Characters: 13 male, 14 female, extras.Unit setThis happy go lucky view of small town vice and statewide political side stepping recounts the good times and the demise of the Chicken Ranch, known since the 1850s as one of the better pleasure palaces in all of Texas. Governors, senators, mayors and even victorious college football teams frequent Miss Mona''s cozy bordello until that puritan neme
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd Eating Raoul
Book SynopsisThe cult film classic has new life as a zany musical. The Blands want to open a restaurant, but they need cash. Suppose they lure weirdos to their apartment to kill and rob them?
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd A... My Name Is Still Alice
Book SynopsisThe critically-acclaimed sequel to the hit musical revueA...My Name Is Aliceis similar in format. Written by a wide variety of writers, lyricists, and composers, this lively entertainment continues to explore contemporary women - this time in the 1990s. The music ranges from gospel to country western to rock to some glorious pop ballads.
£999.99
Samuel French Inc Kiss of the Spider Woman
Book SynopsisCharacters: 15 male, 3 female Scenery: Interior Winner of multiple Tony Awards including Best Musical, Kiss of the Spider Woman revamps a harrowing tale of persecution into a dazzling spectacle that juxtaposes gritty realities with liberating fantasies. Cell mates in a Latin American prison, Valentin is a tough revolutionary undergoing torture and Molina is an unabashed homosexual serving eight years for deviant behavior. Molina shares his fantasies about an actress, Aurora (originated on Broadway by Chita Rivera) with Valentin. One of her roles is a Spider Woman who kills with a kiss. Thrilling.-- N.Y. Times. Compelling, beautiful, funny and moving...[Has] a cinematic fluidity and a poetic charge.-- N.Y. Daily News. Creates an entire world out of a prison cell...Dazzling.-- Newsweek.
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd Elegies for Angels Punks and Raging Queens
Book SynopsisMusical Book and Lyrics by Bill Russell. Music by Janet Hood. Characters: 20-25 males, 11-16 females (doubling or expanding possible.) Unit set A celebration of lives lost to AIDS told in free verse monologues with a blues, jazz and rock score, this piece is designed to include the community in a theatrical response to the AIDS crisis. It is often performed as a benefit for fund raising and consciousness raising. Dramatic.---Spectator
£999.99
Samuel French Inc Zombie Prom
Book Synopsis5m, 5f (with doubling) / Ints. This girl loves ghoul rock and roll Off Broadway musical is set in the atomic 1950s at Enrico Fermi High, where the law is laid down by a zany, tyrannical principal. Pretty senior Toffee has fallen for the class bad boy. Family pressure forces her to end the romance, and he charges off on his motorcycle to the nuclear waste dump. He returns glowing and determined to reclaim Toffee's heart. He still wants to graduate, but most of all he wants to take Toffee to the prom. The principal orders him to drop dead while a scandal reporter seizes on him as the freak du jour. History comes to his rescue while a tuneful selection of original songs in the style of 50s hits keeps the action rocking across the stage. A blast...Slick fun for the whole nuclear family. - N.Y. Daily News Stays safely on the sunny side of the macabre...A gentle send up of the teenage romance films ...given a radioactive glow of novelty. - N.Y. Times If you like Grease ...you [will] like Zom
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd Zombie Prom
Book SynopsisThis girl-loves-ghoul rock and roll Off Broadway musical is set in the atomic 1950s at Enrico Fermi High, where the law is laid down by a zany, tyrannical principal. Pretty senior Toffee has fallen for the class bad boy. Family pressure forces her to end the romance, and he charges off on his motorcycle to the nuclear waste dump. He returns glowing and determined to reclaim Toffee''s heart. He still wants to graduate, but most of all he wants to take Toffee to the prom. The principal orders him t
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd Tumacho
Book SynopsisIn a small town in the Old West, the mayor can’t keep his people from running away or dying at the hands of the local brute. And just when things can’t get any worse, an omen predicts that a demon ghost might soon return to possess one of the town’s few remaining people, and then to ravage the rest. Which tyrant will be more awful, the demon or the brute? And assuming the mayor can’t save the day – for it seems he can’t do much – will Catalina, the town vagrant, be the one who steps up? Tumacho considers hope in the face of evil, the community struggle to act, and demon cuisine, all in a deadpan ode to comedies of yore.
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd War Paint
Book SynopsisHelena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden defined beauty standards for the first half of the twentieth century. Brilliant innovators with humble roots, both were masters of self-invention who sacrificed everything to become the country’s first major female entrepreneurs. They were also fierce competitors whose fifty-year tug-of-war would give birth to an industry. From Fifth Avenue society to the halls of Congress, their rivalry was relentless and legendary – pushing both women to build international empires in a world dominated by men.
£999.99
Samuel French Ltd Dont Hug Me Were Family
Book SynopsisSet in a little north woods Minnesota town, the host of a radio show devoted entirely to ice fishing loses his only advertiser while his wife, a popular host of a book show, has all the advertisers, putting the competitive couple at odds. Their marital problems are compounded when two fish-out-of-water Brooklyn Italians come to the rural Minnesota town, buy the radio station, and turn everything upside down.
£999.99
