Reviews (3)

Awesome!
This book has great facts, and pictures! It's one of my favorite books! Get it if you're a fan! You really won't be sorry!

Awesome pictures, and stories!
This book is really great! It has facts, great pictures! And a story about each guy! But the pictures are what impressed me the most! Some of them are really cool! Buy this book, you won't be sorry! See ya later!

fab
this great if u really want to get to know these 5 fabulous guys uve gotta get this"nsyncndepth". ... Read more

Book Description

Two hundred and fifty stunning photos of pop sensation Kylie Minogue track her career from girl–next–door actress to sexy icon of music and style. Now in a re–designed and updated new paperback edition. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Superficial pretentious drivel!
Unfortunately this is more of the same on the lines of the first book. It really is a retread of everything that you already knew about Ms Minogue, and she has to be desperate to keep flogging expensive books like this about herself on to the market all the time. The book is an exercise in self-indulgence and she really is NOT the "cultural force" that she is commonly made out to be here, the pictures are nothing special, the writing is stupid and yes v. self indulgent!
....I don't think many people even care for the subject, it fails to break new ground and its just another retrospective of her career...BORING!!! it fails in every aspect as its a subject that holds very little interest, all comes to mind is that Kylie as an artist and entertainer and producer and songwriter and any insight into the motivation behind her fulfilling these roles is very under represented
....Kylie should hang up that microphone and become a glamour model instead, 'cause there's more interest in her arse these days than her ability to craft a well written song.

Yeah...
I found this book to be really interesting except for the fact that every now and then the co-writer 'Willian Baker' would talk more about himself than kylie, more about his super hero 'Boy George' than Kylie and reveal anecdotes of his adolescence that really aren't to the point. If we wanted to read a review on William Baker or Boy George, we would have bought their own autobiographies but we bought one called 'KYLIE : La la la' and expect it to be about her. I thought the parts she wrote were most interesting and I loved the pictures. This book is done tastefully and isn't the smut that some have blasted it to be. I live in Australia and the cover of my copy is different but the content is all the same. It's a fantastic testament to her career and really shows in visual form the history that has been her performing life so far. A great companion to any album or concert release, I found it most interesting and I good read.

Hot Hot Hot..La La La
Well, this book is somethin'!!!! There's very good pictures and great text! This is maybe the greatest book I've ever watched! Kylie is on billiard table...on a lake...almost everywhere...there's hundreds of pictures aboyt her and all the people she has worked with (Jason Donovan, Nick Cave etc.) This book tells everything you have wanted to know about Kylie...well almost...you may need "Kylie Naked" in addition. You don't need p*rn magazined anymore! This book is made for all of you who want to know about Kylie or m**turb**e! There's pictures of her music videos etc...read and watch this! Kylie is lovely! This is the last proof of that the Kylie is the most beautiful and se*iest woman in the world! Enjoy yourself!

Great insight into Kylie's World
This book is great; lots of photos and behind-the-scenes views of Kylie's life and especially her tours. While it is nice to hear her address her feelings on topics such as the "Impossible Princess" album and her SAW years, it is not the tell-all autobiography many had hoped it would be. Kylie does offer insights here and there, but she states early in the book that she's not ready to write an autobiography yet. For example, she barely mentions her relationship with Michael Hutchence.

My only real gripes with this book are that sometimes the text is really difficult to read with the color combinations that were chosen, and that William Baker, who wrote much of the book, injects too much of his own autobiographical information. I know that for part of it, he is trying to establish his credentials as a fashion consultant or whatever he is, but it comes off as incredibly self-absorbed a lot of the time. Quite frankly, I'm surprised that Kylie, as the star of the book, allowed that to happen. I would have given it only 4 1/2 stars if that were possible, but I rounded it up to 5 to be fair.

These are minor complaints however...it really is a great book. I had to go watch my Kylie Tour DVDs again after reading the it, taking into account all the tidbits I had learned about what went on. Plus, the photograph collection really is amazing. Looking through the pictures that chronicle her evolution over the years, it is really easy to see why some call her "The Australian Madonna" here in the States. No Kylie fan should pass this book up! ... Read more

Book Description

POP PRINCESS

Britney Spears is putting girls back on the map in the pop music world. With the effervescent and intoxicating sounds of her first album, ...Baby One More Time, Britney shot straight to the top of the charts--in just the first week of the album's release. Her ripe style and smart lyrics have captured the hearts of millions of fans, young and old.

But Britney didn't just come out of nowhere: she is a multitalented entertainment sensation who can't remember a time in her life when she wasn't singing, acting, or dancing. She broke into the biz at the tender age of eight, and it wasn't long before she made her mark. TRUE BRIT gives you all the backstage info, from her first audition for The New Mickey Mouse Club to her exciting decision to go solo. You'll also find out what it was like for Brit to work with the boys of 'N Sync, the rumors of romance, and her dazzling life beyond the stage.

Britney is more than just a singer--she's a performing phenomenon. And TRUE BRIT is your ticket into her amazing world.
... Read more

Reviews (7)

Good book to read
My 9 yr. old daughter is a huge Britney fan & loved this book. It is well writen & has lots of info!

IT IS THE WORST BOOK!!
This was the worst book I ever read.

Britney Spears Retired
7 Years Ago Britney Spears Retired From the mmc mickey mouse club and till recriet

YOU GOTTA BUY THIS BOOK
well iam a big BRITNEY SPEARS fan and than i buy this book and man this book is great is not like other book well this book will make u happy that u buyed this one .it has picture and quize

No regrets! It's great!
This book is the best book I have ever read. SERIOUSLY! It's wonderful. Beth Peters uses a great technique of writing to make it very interesting. It's not just a book that you sit down and read through. It's got quizzes about Brit, facts (from her fave things to the address of where to get a script of the play "Ruthless" that she stared in), and information on her former MMC stars and where they are now. In between all that, it tells the story of super star, Britney Spears. If you like Brit, and want to learn cool facts that you probably don't know, but don't feel like sitting and reading a whole book, get this. It's interactive, and a bunch fun. GO GET IT! ... Read more

Book Description

Singer, composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and superstar,Sheryl Crow is one of the most respected and accomplished artists on the rockscene today, with eight Grammy awards, sold-out concerts, and album sales inexcess of 20 million copies. Her distinctive vocal style and idiosyncraticsound, which blends rock with "alternative country," folk with "neo-hippy," hasbeen widely imitated.Sheryl Crow: No Fool to This Game tells the unvarnished story behind the southMissouri native who, in addition to her own accomplishments, has collaborated onstage and in the studio with many of the world's most celebrated musicalartists. This mesmerizing biography digs beneath the media hype and public imageto uncover the full facts about this talented, complex, independent, andincredibly driven woman who, within a relatively short period of time, hasblazed a rich and intricate trail on her own terms.New York Times best-selling author Richard Buskin has closely tracked SherylCrow's career from the release of her award-winning 1993 debut album, TuesdayNight Music Club, through her equally successful follow-ups, including her new2002 album, C'mon, C'mon. Filled with in-depth research and personal interviewswith Sheryl Crow's friends, colleagues, and even adversaries, this book offers afascinating, multifaceted look at a life that has encompassed numerous highs andlows-while also providing rare insight into how a star is born, nourished, andmarketed in today's cutthroat music industry. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Average reading
This is currently the only book about Sheryl Crow in print. In the first chapter, the author, Richard Buskin, states and explains how Sheryl wanted no part in this book. It's easy to see why. While the book is informative, it draws from too many of the same sources. I lost count of the times he quotes VH1's Behind the Music special on her. Not only that, but the text is often very meandering and the author often repeats himself. However there are some interesting accounts of her albums. Like the acclaimed first album that was never released because Sheryl did not like the polished sound of the record, to the behind the scenes turmoil behind her first album TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB, in which Sheryl was accused of taking all the credit and giving none to the band. That was the longest part of the book. Next was SHERYL CROW's second album and how she did not want to work with Bill Botrell who she worked with on her first released album. This is when the book became more interesting, because it dealt with where Sheryl became more in control of the type of music she wanted to do and how she wanted to present herself. I enjoyed the story of how the song "The Book" came to be. Next was THE GLOBE SESSIONS, her 1998 album, and how she was having trouble recording the album and finding the right songs, how it was delayed etc. Then he explains about her current album C'MON C'MON and the trouble she suffered during the recording process such as depression, not wanting to record, and everything like that. The book does not talk much about her relationships with Eric Clapton and Owen Wilson. It's not that bad a book but hopefully there will be an autobiography in the future or at least a book written about her with better references and quotes.

Great effort especially given his limitations
Hope that Mr. Buskin gets an opportunity to write an authorized biography of Ms. Crow. In the introduction, he freely acknowledges that neither she, her family nor her management would speak to him. In spite of this, his book seems to present a pretty balanced account of her career and avoids being sleazy. He provides terrific insight into the record industry and how records and stars are made. Still, I would like to read "the rest of the story...," to hear more from Ms. Crow and her family. Would recommend to book to anyone interested in Ms. Crow and her career.

Behind the Music......
It's fascinating reading about how my favorite Sheryl Crow songs were birthed into existence. That was my favorite part of the book and Mr. Buskin did a superb job of detailing the history of all of her songs. This is a gripping story of Ms. Crow's rise to fame via determination, hard work and a single-minded ambition to succeed. I came away applauding her tenacity, her talent and her sheer will to survive in the dog-eat-dog music business. If you enjoy Sheryl Crow's music then this book is a must-read for you. You'll come away feeling as if you know her and her music in a deeper way. I highly recommend this well-written book.

Some Good Insight But Certain Aspects Are Missing
Don't get me wrong. I am a fan of Sheryl Crow's music. Furthermore, I admire her perserverance to make it in the music business. However, Richard Buskin's unauthorized biography No Fool To This Game seems only able to tell part of the story. In addition, the writing style is not easy to read with too much hearsay from VH1 episodes.

Richard Buskin does give some good details of Crow's growing up years and her musical influences. Buskin seems to portray her as your average teen with typical mood swings. Her later experiences in rock n roll bands are documented but somehow nothing really excites the listener. Probably due to the fact that Buskin could not get any documentation from Sheryl herself. The scattered information from her peers just does not seem to cut it.

The details behind her working with Michael Jackson and Don Henley are pretty interesting. Its amazing how the gloved one is portrayed as so aloof to his fellow band mates. Nonetheless, Sheryl's networking abilities are quite inspiring.

Also of interest are her several romantic adventures which unfortunately did not lead to true love. At least she and Eric Clapton are good friends. Whereas these insights do help me relate even more to the words and the attitude to Sheryl Crow's songs, somehow I am left with the feeling that there is more information behind the scenes that Mr. Buskin could not give us. We need more than just quotes for a good biography.

The information behind the key songs on Sheryl's recordings are pretty interesting. However the meandering writing style is certainly distracting.

The Coda chapter stands strong as Buskin gives some good quotes on Sheryl which give insight to her true personality. A good glossary section and a nice photo arrangment as well.

Some good insight on Sheryl Crow yes indeed. However, I am hopeful that someone else will come out with a more detailed account of this very talented singer.

Crow in Depth
If you're interested in the inner workings of the record industry and what it takes to get a chance to make it then "No Fool to this Game" is a MUST read. Buskin covers her early career and the Crow Machine as she plows over all those in her path. It's a fascinating story that ends with her latest album, C'mon, C'mon. Sheryl may not be a fool to this game but she has given up her personal life (marriage & family) for the riches of R'N'R. I wonder if she thinks it's all been worth it? ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

New York Times best-selling celebrity Mark Bego herin delves into another self-made and strong-willed femail star: internationally renowned soul/pop vocalist Tina Turner. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

great data on Tina's recording career
If you want to know more about the private life of Tina Turner, buy "I, Tina" written by Tina Turner and Rolling Stone journalist Kurt Loder.
What makes this book great is the fact that it gives you a very detailed view of Tina's recording career and the chart positions her records achieved in the US and the UK charts.
Also a really great discography in the back of the book.
For someone more interested in her achievements instead of her private life, I think this is a great item to add to your Tina Turner collection.

OK bio, but I TINA is her definitive life story
Mark Bego may be making a living writing celebrity biographies, but his efforts at chronicling the life of Tina Turner falls short. Everything any Tina fan needs to know has been covered in her autobiography I, TINA she wrote with Kurt Loder years ago. Though I, TINA doesn't cover her career from the 1990s to the present day, what Bego has included could be found on any fan website or in the public domain through newspaper clippings and magazine articles in Rolling Stone, etc.

I am a longtime fan and follower of Tina's life, and she truly is a survivor. If you want the real deal, pick up a copy of I, TINA to read, and a copy of PRIVATE DANCER for the best solo album of the 1980s, period!

One word of advice to the author for his next book, lay off the exclamation points which are really too numerous.

NOT "SIMPLY THE BEST"
As a huge Tina fan, I became very excited when I heard about this book. Unfortunately, this book didn't live up to my expectations.

I think the main flaw lies with the author's research. It doesn't appear as if he interviewed Tina or anyone connected with her. If he had, it might have made a world of difference. The book seems to be a compilation gleaned from every other Tina bio that has been written. There is very little info that hasn't been printed before. Even worse, there are numerous incorrect facts. Most of which could have been fixed had the author done better research.

Case in point: the author states that after leaving Ike and starting her solo career, Tina never again performed the songs A FOOL IN LOVE and ITS GONNA WORK OUT FINE until they had to be re-recorded for her 1993 film biography. Not true. In a commercially-released concert home video from the late 70s, Tina indeed performs both of those songs, along with I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU TOO LONG (another song that the author claims Tina dropped after leaving Ike.)

For those who have not read any other bios on Tina, this is a good introduction and a quick read. But those who have closely followed Tina's life and career will be hard pressed to find anything new here. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

GREAT BOOK!!
Dude, this is the greatest book ever!! It has lots of facts! It also has pin ups of each guy! I'm tellin' ya it's awesome! Who ever wrote it is a genius! IT'S GREAT! It even has pictures of the guys when they were kids! I really like it! It's one of my favorite books! I read the whole thing the same day that I got it! That's how good it is! If you are an nsync fan GO BUY IT NOW!! If you're someone that's just looking at stuff this is a great book to own! SO BUY IT! The pictures are great! I'm tellin' ya buy it! It's way COOL! So just give it a try. If you don't like it you can always take a refund. But who would wanna? So buy it!

Nsync- Pop Odyssey
I am a major Nsync fan, and when I bought this book and was finished reading it, I was about ready to die. It was soo good. The writing was fantastic, and it gives you a good look at Nsync. They are a great group of guys, and this book is perfect for them. I give this book five stars, and I recommend it for anyone, Nsync lovers and haters!(if there are any!) ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Raw and inside the music business
This is a very unusual book. There is the early Ike Turner of Clarksdale and Sun Studios and Modern Studios of California. A fascinating look into the birth of rock and roll.

Then there is the Tina era and a no holds barred portrait of Ike's desires as a man. Fame, substance and women. It is reminiscent of the Miles Davis autobiography as the courage to acknowledge his desires and actions is everpresent.

Finally is the Tina fiasco cleanup. I admire Ike for writing this book. He is not takin it lying down. He is affected by the experience but does not whitewash it. And he feels he has not been dealt with square.

At times the narrative is unconvincing. But I think it is healing his spirit to write his book. There is goodness and devil in everyman and Reading this one reminds me of the devil in me as well as the goodness in Ike.

And lastly do not miss the Little Richard introduction. Unbelievable!!!

The Two Halves That Make A Whole
I, like most people, learned much of what I knew of Ike Turner from his eighth ex-wife Tina's autobiography, I, Tina. From that time to approximately 1997 I had an ongoing fascination with finding out more about often reclusive Turner. Takin' Back My Name fills in many of the gaps left by Tina's book and by interviews that have focused more on his relationship with his wife than with his life and career. Contrary to other reviews of this book which appear on this site, Turner is not illiterate or unfamiliar with the English language -- nor is the book full of mis-spellings. It was co-authored by Nigel Cawthorne, a British journalist and printed in the United Kingdom where the spellings are "proper English". When sent here to the United States, the publisher did not deem it necessary to change over spellings of words like "tyre" or "recognise". For those looking for an in your face, honest examination of Ike & Tina, look no further. Pay close attention to the fight that takes place in Texas the prefaced Tina's departure. It takes checking out both books to get a clearer understanding of what made Ike and Tina Turner both spectacular AND volatile.

Wow...a baffling read...
I have to start this review clearing a few obvious things. First, most people are aware that the film WHATS LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT does have inaccuracies, and yes, there are two sides to every story, BUT...

That out of the way, I read much of TAKIN' BACK MY NAME with my mouth open in disbelief. Ike IS recognized as a pioneer in Rock-n-Roll, no denying, and of course we should take that into account, but genius does not justify the monster that even he admits that he was. For those who credit him for admitting it, its really hollow praise- I mean, he had NO CHOICE but to admit it- if he tried to deny it, he would have countless witnesses to the abuse, adultery, drugs etc. who would tear him to shreds!

As a read, this is definitely fascinating, although frustrating in its context and confusing in its narrative (Ike is apparently not a slave to chronology). He seems to contradict himself at various points, and even seems a bit out of touch at other times (does he really think Tina would reunite for a reunion tour??? The Supremes couldnt even do it, and Ike thinks that Tina's gonna??? LOL)

My main problem was the subject matter- it is so difficult to have compassion for the author, even in light of his declaration of mistakes. If you can get past it, you may enjoy this book...

PS. for the prior entries who ridiculed Tina for staying with Ike so long, have you even considered the possiblity that she may have been fearful of what he might do? Its much easier to make that statement if you're not actually in the situation...

SHEENA OF THE JUNGLE
BY OWNING UP TO THE MISTAKES HE MADE IKE TURNER HAS REDEEMED HIMSELF. I'LL ADMIT I'VE ALWAYS BEEN ANNOYED BY THE POSTURING
TINA BANDWAGON RIDERS. BUT LITTLE RICHARD SETS IT STRAIGHT WHEN HE SAYS ABOUT TINA "SHE KNOWS MY NAME BUT SHE DON'T CALL ME."
GIVEN THE TIMES OF THE "TINA ERA" IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A PRUDENT
CAREER MOVE TO PLAY THE ABUSED SPOUSE- IT APPEARS SHE AND HER PUBLIC RELATIONS MACHINE DID THIS-
HER TIMING WAS PERFECT & SHE BUILT QUITE A CAREER OUT OF IT.
IT WAS QUITE THE FASHION-EVEN DID A DUET WITH MICK JAGGER-
BUT A ONE TRICK PONY. BEAR IN MIND HER ENTIRE SCHTICK WAS DESIGNED DOWN TO THE LAST WARDROBE DETAIL BY IKE TURNER (HIS FANTASY BEING "SHEENA OF THE JUNGLE" THE 1940'S FILM CHARACTER)-AND AS OLD IKE SAID- "SHE KNEW WHAT I WAS LIKE-WHY DID SHE STAY AROUND SO LONG?"
WHAT I LIKED BEST ABOUT THIS BOOK WAS THE SLANG USED REMINDED ME OF THE GHETTO TALK OF MY YOUTH. AND THE EXPERIENCES IKE REMEMBERS ARE NOT THAT UNUSUAL FOR THOSE OF US THAT HAVE SEEN THE BOTTOM RUNG OF THE LADDER. THE MAN HAS AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF TALENT AND CONTINUES TO BE A MAJOR INFLUENCE. THIS BOOK SERVES AS A PRIMER AND INSPIRATION FOR ANYONE SURVIVING-INTACT-COMING OUT OF THE URBAN JUNGLE AND BEING THROWN INTO THE BUSINESS JUNGLE-WITH ALL ATTENDANT STRESSES AND PAINS- ALL THE VIOLATIONS- ALL THE HEARTACHE OF DISLOYALTIES - AND THEN BEING THROWN BACK INTO THE BOTTOM AGAIN-NOT IN ANONYMITY-BUT UNDER THE SCRUTINY OF THE WHOLE WORLD- AND THEN BOOTSTRAPPING YOURSELF -FOR A THIRD TIME!!!!!!!- THIS MAN UNDERSTANDS SURVIVAL-
WELCOME BACK, IKE-

"Takin' Back My Name" Hardly Ike
In this sad excuse of a memoir Ike Turner tries and tries and tries to convince us that he is a good person. WRONG! Instead he comes off as a psychopathic obsessive fool who ruined the best thing in his life when he destroyed his relationship with the wonderful TINA. He also jumps back and forth with his opinion on TINA but hey who cares? We must remember that HE BEAT HER UP and like the old saying goes "A leopard cannot change its spots" or to quote Marlo Thomas on "Friends" "once a cheater always a cheater" Take that, Ike. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I AM SHOUTING FROM THE ROOFTOPS-GET THIS BOOK!!!
If you have some of Mickey Newbury's work, you Have to get this book... If you don't
know Mickey Newbury, but you have heard of him because of Townes or Guy Clark or any
other of his many "children" out there, you Have to get this book... Whatever IT is, IT
begins and ends with Mickey Newbury... IT has Always been about Mickey Newbury since the
late Fifties - early Sixties when he first picked up a pen and stepped up to a microphone...
Believe me, I am not overstating this or engaging in the hyperbole that is the fashion of
the day, when I tell you that this book may be your one chance to cut through all the junk
that passes for information these days and find out THE TRUTH about the music that you and
I have both come to love and worship... The only music that counts, the music from the
heart, not for the cash, but for the Art; the music and words that we would write if WE
were artists... If we were only artists like Joe Ziemer and Mickey Newbury...

Mickey Newbury, Crystal & Stone
I am currently in my second reading of " Mickey Newbury, Crystal & Stone by Joe Ziemer.It chronicles the life and music of Milton Sims(Mickey)Newbury,Jr. It is the first book written about this American Treasure and will be the standard by which all subsequent writings will be judged.
I have been a fan of Mickey's music for thirty five years and a friend for the last few years of his life. On each page I could feel and hear Mickey reaching out to me. For anyone wishing to learn more about the greatests American songwriter/singer ever to draw a breath, it is necessary reading. What more can I say. ... Read more

Book Description

Prince is once again King. Twenty years after the inauguration of his Purple Reign, the illustrious icon is back commanding the music scene. His resurgence--an acclaimed album and tour project and his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame--has reminded critics and fans alike that he remains the greatest artist of our time:

· the most complete virtuoso in pop history - a master of many instruments and an innovator in the studio

· a prolific and highly influential composer who's written over 50 hits and amassed an unprecedented catalog

· a commercial behemoth who's sold over 100 million records and built a cottage industry of films, business ventures and satellite stars

· a cultural maverick with a daring sense of style

· an industry pioneer who's created his own independent business models

· the most dynamic showman ever to hit the stage

Prince: A Life in Music celebrates his achievements with a retrospective look at 50 of his songs. It is a "playlist history," and each song documents a chapter in his eventful career. Read along--and listen when you're able--to the life and work of an amazing phenomenon in the history of pop.

Book Description

Paul McCartney: I Saw Him Standing There presents an insider's glimpse into the private persona of one of the world's greatest musician-singer-songwriters or our time. It has sure-fire, multigenerational appeal for the legions of fans who have followed the star's career for decades.All of the pictures in the book are the work of one professional photographer who has had unique access to McCartney from 1976 to the present. Her exclusive photos, taken during tours, record signings, private parties, press conferences, award ceremonies, backstage moments, and numerous personal encounters, show the many faces of McCartney-the musician, devoted husband, proud father, environmentalist, and animal rights activist. Revealing statements by the artist himself, lively accounts by many of his fans, and commentary by the author complete this remarkable chronicle of an internationally beloved entertainer. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

A Beautiful Book!!
Jorie Gracen is a talented photographer who has captured the essence of Paul McCartney in concert in this book of incredible photos. There are plenty of great candids in this book, too. The fans' stories are wonderful. A must for all Macca fans!!!!

PAUL FANS, THIS BOOK IS A MUST!!SHOOTING STARS TO YOU JORIE
It will be very hard to find the right words to describe the pictures in this book, but I will try!! Jorie Gracen was able to CAPTURE PAUL THE WAY I SEE HIM!!!!!Her pictures are the BEST PICTURES I HAVE EVER SEEN OF PAUL!!! If you are a Paul McCartney fan you will love the way the author/photographer is able to make you feel like you are sitting in the FRONT ROW!!

She has great little stories to go with each photo, what is going on at that moment, the song he is singing. There are also some great interviews and stories from fans just like us that have seen Paul in concert or had the opportunity to meet him in person. For me it was a way to see all of the magic and excitement surrounding this great musician and man!

I think another thing that is so admirable about Ms. Gracen is that she will be donating percentages of HER own personal money to Breast Cancer Research in memory of Linda.

I feel that not only does her EXTRAORDINARY TALENT shine through as a FIRST RATE PHOTOGRAPHER with this book, but also her geniune love and respect for Paul and Linda.

He FELT Her Standing There
This book is a wonderful collection of Memories of many Magical Moments in the presence of Paul McCartney. The pictures span two and a half decades of devoted work. The author and Mr. McCartney connect in several of these pics,and he hams it up for her. Who but someone so tuned in to him, could capture these moments??. Linda McCartney appreciated Jorie Gracen and her work...what else needs to be said.? I highly recommend this book and hope that Ms. Gracen will put out another collection following his recent world tours.Anyone who appreciates Paul will thouroughly enjoy this book!!!!!!!!!

Linda from Boulder, CO
This is an excellent, fun book for any fan who has ever attended a Macca concert and I have attended many. It is also fun for people who have yet to experience the thrill of having Paul wink at them or point at their sign. I don't consider myself a "wacko" or a "stalker". I just enjoy seeing Paul in concert and reading this book brings back many memories, including the story I wrote for the book about Liverpool on June 28, 1990.

Wow! To have been standing there
Great Pictures, great format.
Ms. Gracen gives us a fly on the wall view of McCartney's touring days. Closeups and rare photos. Well put together and an endless parade of snapshots. Perfect coffee table book. If you put this on your coffee table with ten other books it's almost guaranteed that this is the one your guests will pick up. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

All about perspective
This is neither a "companion piece" nor a "tell-all" book. Equally, it is not a flimsy paperback stapled and glued together just in time for the band's next big tour. What Denise Sullivan does write (and write well, also) is much closer to an anecdote, a souveneir, a recalled event. She avoids the trite and passionless type of "rock'n'roll" review/expose we have to endure all the time and instead lets the reader get a glimpse not so much of the band REM, but of the people that REM exerted some influence on, or the people for whom REM mattered. Reading Sullivan's book, I am reminded of how one of my closest friends and I discuss REM -- from memory, from songs, from what has been happening in our lives. This book feels like a friend.

A Necessary Companion
Unlike most "rock-n-roll" books which often pander to the lowest common denominator -- which usually is the author's own personal bias barely hidden in the text and most often the lens through which we are forced to watch the history of the band/singer unfold -- Denise Sullivan gives us something better, and frankly, more fun. "TATP" offers an original and fresh perspective on a very enigmatic yet familiar college - rock - alternative - mainstream - wacky - superstar band. This book is a must-have for both the fan and fanatic. The writing is well-done, the subject matter well-handled. While almost everyone's favorite REM song and/or album may change over time, this remains my favorite book on the band.

An informative look at R.E.M.
This book was excellent. It was great to get a history of what went on by people who actually were there.Recommendwd if you are a fan of Mr. Stipe and Co. or just interested in a the history of great music that shaped a scene.

Great
You can't get much better than this -- personal accounts of people who actually were there. There is just as much information to be found here as in _It Crawled from the South_. It proceeds chronologically with great detail, and feeds the REM-fact hungry reader just what he/she wants. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A must have for B*Witched fans
If you love B*Witched and to know everything about them this is the book for you. It tells you about there History OF there life and there hopes and dreams for the future. There are plenty of pitures which are great.There are facts on B*Witched and even a quiz to test your knowledge. If you wanna know more about B*Witched this is most certaintly the book for you. Adam

Fresh and fun, just like their music.
The official book is a must for the true B*Witched fan ,such as myself. The book provides a delightfully fun yet informative insight about the girls, by the girls. The book doesn't take on the form of a stuffy autobiography, but rather takes on a fun narration of the story of the best group around. Simply said, a great book.

Wonderful, a MUST for any true B-Witched fan!
I love this book SO much. B*Witched is my favourite band, and this book gave me SO much info on the girls and wicked pics...I REALLY suggest getting this book if you like B,

This is one good book!
This book is must for big B*Witched fans like me. It has great pics, fab facts, and interesting stories on B*Witched. Definatly 5 stars!

A Must for the BWitched fan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I loved this book and I am a huge fan of B*witched. There are tons of great pictures and loads of info on the group. ... Read more

Book Description

Taking up the story where "The Beatles: A Diary" left off, this is a highly detailed chronicle of what each of the ex-Beatles did from January 1970 onwards. A fascinating, fully illustrated account of four individuals emerging from the straitjacket of pop music’s greatest ever success story. (hardcover, b/w photos) ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Great Addition to the Beatles' Story
First let me say what a wonderful book this is. I bought it thinking of it as a reference, but ending up reading it cover to cover. There are many stories that run through the book, John, Paul, George, and Ringo's lives, for sure, but you can also follow the legal cases (I never knew Apple records sued Apple Computers, and got an undisclosed settlement!), the tours, the press bickering and the love fests in the press.

I found the organization exceptional. While an index would have been nice (maybe for future editions), I didn't really need it. My favorite activity while reading this book was to follow various threads from entry to entry. So, when John wrote a letter to Melody Maker, that is noted and you are directed to the subsequent dates to find out the response, etc. I found this to be fun and engaging. All in all, a wonderful book.

What a great book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I thought this book was a great read!. Its researched with great detail & passion from a writer who knows his stuff. I'd love to meet the writer, as I imagine that he could talk for hours about the Beatles & you wouldn't get bored!.

Essential No Matter What
This is a great book. The research is fantastic. However some things are wrong with this book. There is a complete lack of an index, appendixes, and discographies. It is also somewhat annoyingly not a coffee table style book but shaped like a novel. There is some obvious events that are missing and some dates are incorrect. Not to mention some are pretty much irrelevant. Also, it starts on April 1, 1970(the last day a Beatle [Ringo] recorded something on a Beatle Song)which is somewhat clever, but it should have started at sometime around August 1969, which as we all know was for the most when the real breakup occured. This may be a harsh opinion, but when it comes to Beatle books there is only one thing you can do and that My friends is to compare them to the Lewisohn books.

Best Beatles Book in 10 years!
This is the best book since Lewisohn's Day By Day book of the Beatles which cover 1962-1989. It picks up where he left off and gives us the most complete picture of the Beatles after the Beatles to date. Only a few mistkaes on dates and times, which hopefully will be corrected in the next edition. Buy it ASAP!

Exhaustive Overview Of The Post-Beatles Era
The authors have provided a detailed day by day account of the ex-Beatles lives. A very thorough job. In fact, they probably know more about what happened to them on a daily basis than they do themselves. The diary format is good for this kind of a book but I would like to see a discography and musical analysis book on the former Beatles. Roy Carr had a good book out in the early eighties but that is now out of print. This book is the best available book about the Beatles following the events of 1969 to the present and was good reading, even if it was like reading someone else's journal. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

It's Fantastic
If you love Dean Martin this is definetly the book for you!! I actually put the book down and stopped reading it to make it last longer. It was wonderful! Ricci takes you to their home and places you right there to watch their life unfold. I laughed at the good times and cried with the sad times. Makes me want to turn back the clock of time. This book is well written. The love of a son for his father & family is apparent. Now that I have read it, I will definetly read it again. This is a must read!!!!

Very entertaining read, like spending time with the family
Ever since I can remember, I have been a fan of Dean Martin, and after reading this book I no longer wonder why. Ricci tells us what I always suspected, that Dean was real, he was a loving person, a good Dad and his son reports he didn't put himself above anyone else. I like that in a person. I remember seeing the lovely Olympic Ice Skater Dorothy Hamill interviewed on TV, shortly after Dean's death several years ago and she said he was one of the kindest people she ever met. Dorothy had been married at one time to Dean's son, Dino, of the 1960's Rock'N Roll Band, Dino, Desi & Billy. There are some wonderful photos in the book, heart-warming memories from his son and an insight to life must have felt like having a super star for a father, although I got the impression Dean was very much a regular guy once he arrived home after work. The book has some great (funny!)stories about Ricci and his brother, Dean Paul (Dino). How I wish I could have seen Dean in Vegas with his buddies on stage. This book could have been a few hundred pages longer! Good job, Ricci, thanks for sharing memories of your father and your family with us. Funny I could write this review without mentioning Dean's wonderful singing voice, and who in the world didn't love to listen to Dean!

Meeting Ricci Martin
I am a huge Dean Martin fan and when I went to Vegas and discovered that Ricci Martin was going to be at the Riveria, I jumped at the chance to meet him. I expected him to be a stuck up man, who would just tell about him father and try to promote his book. Boy was I wrong.

He started the concert off by talking about his father and what he really was like. The stories touched me so much that I almost cried. I was surprised to see that Dino was, infact, a family man and how much love his son had for him. He talked about him with such admiration that it showed just how great of a man his father really was. Ricci sang many of his father's songs with such passion.

I discovered that Ricci was a down to earth person. After the show, I came up to him and we talked for about 10 min. He was surprised that a 17 year old enjoys his father's music. He gave me a hug, a kerchief, and autographed my ticket for my boyfriend.

I have not yet read the book, but because of this expiernce, I definately will. Seeing Ricci Martin connected me with someone who I have never had the pleasure of seeing in my time, which is a shame.

Wonderful tribute to Dean Martin
This book is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful Dad. Dean Martin is remembered by his son Ricci. Forget all the negative stuff you have ever read about Dean Martin. This is the true Dean. Dean was a man who loved to golf and loved his family. It is refreshing for a son to write a tribute to his Father. Enjoy it.

Chris added...continuity---
In final pages...'afterword'..Ricci visits his dads tomb,& a woman visiting- from Pittsburgh recognizes him...Meta Bishop helps present annual 'DeaN Martin Festiva' in Steubeville,OH each June since '95. We hope he'll visit--002, for book signing here,too. Ricci is busy (online) in entertainment/media---i.e....Show Biz, see: riccimartin.com ... Read more

Book Description

From his first major success, the now-classic "The Man I Love" (1924) to his last great hit, "The Man That Got Away" (1954), Ira Gershwin wrote the words to some of America's most beloved standards. In Ira Gershwin: The Art of the Lyricist, Philip Furia illuminates the craft behind this remarkable achievement to reveal how Gershwin took the everyday speech of Americans and made it sing. Furia traces the development of Ira Gershwin's lyrical art from his early love of light verse and Gilbert and Sullivan, through his apprentice work in Tin Pan Alley, to his emergence as a prominent writer for the Broadway musical theater in the 1920s.

After describing the Gershwin brothers' brief but brilliant work in Hollywood before George's sudden death--work that produced such classics as "They Can't Take That Away From Me" and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off"--Furia follows Ira's career through such triumphs as "Lady in the Dark" with Kurt Weill, "Cover Girl" with Jerome Kern, and "A Star is Born," with Harold Arlen. Along the way Furia provides much insight into the art of the lyricist and he captures the magic of a golden era when not only the Gershwins, but Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II, Gertrude Lawrence, Fred Astaire, and other luminaries made the lights of Broadway and the Hollywood screen shine brighter than ever before. In Ira Gershwin: The Art of the Lyricist, the older and less flamboyant of the Gershwin brothers at last steps out of the shadows to claim his due as one of American songwriting's most important and enduring innovators. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

4 1/2* Ira: The Wordsmith
When "Girl Crazy," the musical that introduced such endurable songs as "I Got Rhythm," "Embraceable You," and "But Not for Me," opened in month, 1932, composer George presented lyricist Ira with a bracelet inscribed "George, the Music; Ira, the Words." The collaboration of the two brothers' collaboration produced some of the best standards and the starting point of much of the best jazz in years to come.

This book tells the musical history of Ira, Nicknamed "the Jeweler" because of his meticulous fitting of words to music, or as he put it, the construction of a music/word mosaic, the sometimes under-appreciated Gershwin wrote the clever, ironic, and always intelligent word to Gershwin tunes as well as collaborations with (Harburg, Kern, Arlen, Weill, Wodehouse, Bolton, and Duke).

As in his brilliant "Poets of Tin Pan Alley," Furia's masterfully dissects the lyricist's craft, explaining such techniques as pseudo rhymes, internal rhymes, alliteration and assonance, allusions and tone. He examines the importance of a song's "singability." Furia, as in 'Poets' traces the history of the theatre song as a stand-alone number (a la Ziegfried Follies) to its height as an integral "character" that advances the show's plot (first accomplished in "Showboat" and "Oklahoma." Finally, he shows how Ira Gershwin's style (and often his skill) was different from other lyricists of the Golden Age.

The problem is that there is a dearth of original research, especially about Ira's latter non-writing years. I wonder why the author did not interview Michael Feinstein, who befriended Gershwin in the latter year, and here receives a one paragraph cite on the next to the last page. Most of the references on the latter years come from two books alone. Furthermore, while not the life of the party like George, we don't get much of a clue as Ira's personality or personal life. Some original research into Gershwin's personal life and post-writing years would have added greatly to the book. Finally, his use of phrases such as "saying I love you in 32 bars" and "singability" is so repetitive that it becomes grating.

Still, this is an excellent book for students of songwriting and Gershwin fans in particular. There are some excellent behind-the-scenes details about how songs are written (and sometimes ruined) and it's mostly an enjoyable read. For a better overview of the best lyricists of the era, I highly recommend his earlier "The Poets of Tin Pan Alley."

Philip Furia is the Master of Songwriter Biographies...
I've not felt strongly enough about a book or author to submit a review before, but as a songwriter myself, I can not praise Mr. Furia's books enough. He follows the development of the lyrist or songwriter as an artist first, before their celebrity, etc. He shows how their styles changed with time and experience. I have read two of his books. I'm starting a third, and I've bought copies for my friends. I will endeavor to read every songwriter book he produces. He lets you look inside the art of the artist, yet it still reads like a story. I'd give all of his books ten stars. Thank you Mr. Furia, for a wonderful read.

S'Wonderful, S'Marvelous!
A wonderful look at a most talented man. Finally someone writes about Ira rather than George. The book is informative, well written and charming. I highly recommend it. I loved every word!

An informative, readable spotlight on Ira Gershwin.
Ira Gershwin, often seen as the non-dazzler of the remarkable Gershwin brothers, was called "the jeweller" by his peers because of his meticulously crafted lyrics. And this duality of the famed songwriter makes Philip Furia's book especially intriguing. How Ira wrote the songs, how he saw himself, and the famed body of music he created is fascinating reading. But right here, let's just look at one aspect -- the close, loving relationship between the two brothers, Ira and George, the successful collaboration that produced a series of sparkling, sophisticated hit songs for Broadway and Hollywood all throughout the 1920's and 1930's. Ira was the older brother, shy and modest. He idolized the more dashing and outgoing George, and like many others, recognized his musical genius. Once they permanently joined professional forces in 1924, they were unbeatable, but that came after Ira's early career writing light verse and then song lyrics under the name, Arthur Francis. From the first Ira-George hit, "The Man I Love," they meshed perfectly, George's touching and intricate melody married to Ira's deceptively simple and straightforward lyric, "Someday he'll come along..." Everyone recognized the spark the two ignited in their songs. Tunes as unusual and catchy as, Fascinating Rhythm" demanded a rhyme scheme that would place accents in the most effective points. Even when George joined DuBose Heyward to write "Porgy and Bess," Ira had a role in polishing some lyrics, and writing the straightforward, colloquial lyrics for the character of Sportin' Life, such as, "It Ain't Necessarily So." Ira occasionally collaborated with other composers, like Vernon Duke and "Yip" Harburg. But author Furia points out that in a ten-year period, except for the "Porgy and Bess" music with Heyward, all of George Gershwin's songs were with Ira Gershwin lyrics. In their last years, their music seemed particularly closely mated. When "They Can't Take That Away From Me," was nominated for an Academy Award, losing to "Sweet Leilani," Ira was especially disappointed, feeling George should have given more input in how the song was presented in the film, Shall We Dance, because it was evident that their song was superior to the winner. "Love Is Here To Stay" was their last song together for The Goldwyn Follies of 1938. George died before the song was completed. Ira was left to grieve and finish the film. He was distraught. He felt responsible for not noticing his brother's illness until it was too late. In time, Ira's wife. Leonore and their friends, songwriters like Jerome Kern, Harold Arlen, and "Yip" Harburg, helped him accept the fact that he was not responsible for George's early death. In addition, Leonore convinced Ira that he was the remaining Gershwin, and it was up to him to continue the high standards the team had set. It wasn't easy. Ira was always the one who stepped back from the spotlight of his outgoing brother. Philip Furia places Ira Gershwin in the spotlight, and in a readable and informative treatment, gives due credit to one of our most beloved and respected contributors to the American songbook, a man who went on to write many more fine songs with other composers, yet somehow, those lyrics with George shine brightest with irreplaceable wit and sparkle. ... Read more

Book Description

THE FILMS OF BARBRA STREISAND features over 150 stunning color and black & white photographs--many published for the first time--as well as complete cast and credit listings, and a sampling of reviews.The volume also boasts exclusive, illuminating comments from dozens of Streisand's co-workers and friends.Authors Christopher Nickens and Karen Swenson have included a forty-page biographical overview that traces Barbra Streisand's remarkable journey from "dreary obscurity in Flatbush to heights of fame, acclaim and fortune no one would have dared predict."Her legendary triumphs as a concerts and recording artists, Broadway star and television personality are well documented, as are highlights from her personal life--including her marriages to Elliott Gould and James Brolin. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Overview
Barbara Streisand isn't given her due for Her Films.this Book covers alot of Her Film Career! good Pictures&Reflections.

Films Of Barbra Streisand
This book is an excellent insight into Barbra's film career. Lots of detail to the behind the screen stories. Many Classic picture's and hard to find shot's of Barbra. A must have for any Barbra Fan!!!

Barbra Fans Unite!
Calling all Barbra Joan Streisand fans! Now is the time to support the would be publication of a comprehensive resource guide to Barbra's extraordinary film career. If Citadel is unable to publish such a nifty volume, then we should let other publishers know that such a book would be of significant interest. I hope that it won't be long until Ms. Swenson and Mr. Nickens find a home for their work (and on a more personal note, I hope that the somewhat overlooked "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever" (1970) and the sadly neglected "Up The Sandbox" (1972) receive the glowing credit these two glorious films deserve.) I encourage other Streisand partisans to compose "reviews" of the book they'd most like to add to their library shelves. ... Read more

Book Description

Revised and expanded edition of the Beach Boys compendium Mojo magazine deemed an "essential purchase." This collection includes all of the best articles, interviews and reviews from the Beach Boys_ four decades of music, including definitive pieces by Timothy White, Nick Kent, and David Leaf. New material reflects on the tragic death of Carl Wilson and documents the rejuvenated Brian_s return to the boards.

Reviews (4)

a treasure trove
Even having read several books and anthologies on the Beach Boys before, there are pieces in here that I had never even heard of. For fans only, of course, but fans should treaasure it.

An Excellent Reader
This is a wonderful collection of articles covering the Beach Boys and Brian Wilson. Much better than reading those sad tabloid "biographies". It is refreshing to read about the music and not about courtrooms.

Comprehensive & Insightful
Solid chapters on all aspects of the group, its troubles, controversies, triumphs, from the most noted Beach Boys scholars (Nick Kent, David Felton, David Leaf, Timothy White, Dominic Priore, Tom Nolan, Jules Siegal, Kingsley Abbott), of the last 30 years. A bit detailed but also designed to be a fun read. Diehard fans and new recruits will both dig it.

Lots of behind the scenes scoop from every era of the band.
A superbly edited collection of a few dozen features, interviews and editorials that serve as an excellent primer to the Smile-era Beach Boys, as well insights into the early years and Brian's solo daze as well. With reviews. Very good value; 4/5. ... Read more