Top 17 books about music and musicians
Just Kids
What is Just Kids about?
Just Kids by Patti Smith tells the story of her close relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, beginning with their chance encounter in Brooklyn back in the wild '60s and '70s. With this book, you’ll follow their journey through New York City's artistic scene, from humble beginnings to the culture of Max's Kansas City and the Hotel Chelsea. Dive into this nostalgic tribute to their creative bond and a snapshot of an era filled with art, music, and personal growth.
The Storyteller
What is The Storyteller about?
“The Storyteller” is the inspiring memoir of the world-known musician Dave Grohl. He tells readers unique stories of his life, from taking a great risk to start a music career to becoming a part of the famous band “Nirvana.” You’ll learn how Grohl’s tragedies and values helped him become who he is now.
The Woman in Me
What is The Woman in Me about?
“The Woman in Me” by Britney Spears tells the story of the iconic pop star from her point of view. Based on the stories from the singer's life, you will learn the facts that were twisted or not revealed by the tabloids. Whether you’re an old Britney fan or just interested in pop culture and its impact, you'll find this profoundly personal book engaging.
The Rest Is Noise
What is The Rest Is Noise about?
Read The Rest Is Noise by Alex Ross to dive into the fascinating world of modern music. This book will tell you about the evolution of music during the rise of mass culture. Ross, who has immense experience as a music critic for The New Yorker and has received numerous awards, brings his enthusiasm and deep knowledge to this comprehensive overview of 20th-century musical history.
How Music Works
What is How Music Works about?
If you want to explore music's evolution across time and place, the book How Music Works by David Byrne is a perfect read. The book emphasizes how recording technology has transformed the way music is created, performed, and experienced. Combining the roles of a historian, anthropologist, and musician, Byrne explains the patterns and influences that shape music. Read on and learn more about the author’s experiences with Talking Heads and collaborations with artists like Brian Eno and Caetano Veloso.
What to Listen for in Music
What is What to Listen for in Music about?
In his book What to Listen for in Music, Aaron Copland invites you into the wonderful world of music appreciation. Copland provides profound insights into music composition and helps to uncover the nuances and emotions within musical works. If you want to turn listening into a fulfilling experience, this book is a must-read for music enthusiasts of all levels.
This Is Your Brain on Music
What is This Is Your Brain on Music about?
Music is an integral part of our lives, and no other species can experience and enjoy it as much as we do. In his book This Is Your Brain on Music, Daniel J. Levitin uses examples from Mozart to Van Halen to explore the science behind music and why we like it. You’ll find out how musicians use neurobiology to create their music, why the music we listened to during formative years remains so significant throughout our whole lives, and why we happen to have earworms inside our minds.
Chronicles
What is Chronicles about?
Chronicles: Volume One shows Bob Dylan's outstanding voice and storytelling skill, letting us in on the journey that shaped his legendary artistry. Bob Dylan reflects on the most influential moments in his life and career and describes Greenwich Village in the 1960s and his experiences in New York City. He shares stories of wild parties, moments of inspiration, and relationships, walking readers from New Orleans to Woodstock.
Miles
What is Miles about?
In the book called after his own name, Miles Davis, a musical legend in the world of jazz, speaks out about his journey, shaped by drug addiction, racism, and women. Find out some incredible details of his music career and his collaborations with Monk, Mingus, Dizzy, and others. The book Miles is a perfect read not only for the fans of Miles Davis but for any music enthusiasts as well.
The Song Machine
What is The Song Machine about?
The Song Machine by John Seabrook is a unique exploration of the hit-making in today’s music industry. Seabrook travels from New York to Stockholm to Korea and interviews modern hitmakers about how they manage to create earworms of our times. You’ll find out the secrets of making legendary song “hooks” for the Super Bowl halftime show, malls, casinos, and more.
Please Kill Me
What is Please Kill Me about?
Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk will grab your attention whether you’re a die-hard punk fan or simply curious about this period of musical history. Based on the firsthand accounts of influential figures like Iggy Pop, Dee Dee and Joey Ramone, it takes you on a journey through the rise and fall of the punk movement. You’ll explore deep struggles and creative processes of the artists beyond the clichés of sex, drugs, and rock’n’roll.
Cash
What is Cash about?
In his book Cash: The Autobiography, Johnny Cash bares his soul, offering his insights into his struggles with love, faith, and fame. His story evokes a range of emotions and a newfound appreciation for this true American icon. You are sure to find inspiration in Cash’s journey from darkness to redemption, fueled by passion and spirituality.
Heavier Than Heaven
What is Heavier Than Heaven about?
Heavier Than Heaven explores the life of Kurt Cobain, one of the rock’s most enigmatic figures. Charles R. Cross doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of Cobain’s life – his struggles with addiction and mental health issues. Using over 400 interviews, diary entries, and letters, Heavier Than Heaven provides a portrait of a genius songwriter and musician, both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Girl in a Band
What is Girl in a Band about?
Kim Gordon, founding member of Sonic Youth, tells her captivating story in Girl in a Band. Her book provides a personal account of her life and career from a unique perspective as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Gordon’s unapologetic voice paints a candid picture of music, art, and identity.
Musicophilia
What is Musicophilia about?
In Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain renowned neurologist and author Oliver Sacks unveils how music can profoundly impact individuals. The book presents curious cases of «musical misalignments», driven by the author’s personal experience with patients. If you want to enrich your understanding of how music can interact with the human brain, keep reading!
Our Band Could Be Your Life
What is Our Band Could Be Your Life about?
If you’re looking for an exciting, personal view into the early to mid-80's indie scene, Our Band Could be Your Life is a perfect read. Michael Azerrad captures the iconic essence of such bands like Sonic Youth, Black Flag, Fugazi, and many others. This book is a chronicle of musical rebellion and the broader cultural landscape.
Last Train to Memphis
What is Last Train to Memphis about?
Last Train to Memphis presents a vivid portrait of Elvis as a person, tracing his evolution from his humble beginnings to becoming a music icon. This book stands out for its neutrality and depth of research, based on hundreds of interviews. It delves into Elvis Presley’s passion for music and his relationships, as well as his loneliness and trustfulness.
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