Book Description

The reissue of a cult classic--with an extraordinarily engaging and intelligent ramble with one of the most lively and original minds of our time.

Jerry Garcia (1942-1995) is an American icon. The guitarist and de facto leader of the Grateful Dead was a gregarious talker, keenly engaged with the new world exploding around him. In 1972, Garcia was visited by Charles Reich, a Yale law professor, and Jann Wenner, the founder of Rolling Stone. Garcia was just thirty-one years old but already viewed--to his lasting dismay--as a social avatar for the new sensibility sweeping the land, an anarchist streak with a populist undercurrent that had roots in Ken Kesey's pranksters, the writers of the Beat Generation, and the libertine tradition of the American transcendentalists. In this interview, Garcia reveals how he is a combination of these and other influences, a high-school dropout and autodidact blessed with a gift for eloquent turns of phrase and a refreshing directness. He speaks of the saga of the Grateful Dead and his hoodlum youth growing up in San Francisco's Mission district. He delves into fascinating discourses on the music that shaped his own playing and writing, and freely discusses his use of drugs and explains why he felt it was important to stay high. Like the Grateful Dead's best music, Garcia: A Signpost to New Space is familiar, friendly, and inviting. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wow
This book really gives you insight into Jerry and the band. What they were really up to and how they looked at it. If you are a real fan of the band, then you will find confirmation of your deepest insights. Buy it and let Jerry blow your mind again.

a review
Entertaining and enlightning book.
The first part is mainly straitforward question and answer. The "stoned Sunday rap" is the heart and soul of the book. You feel as if your hanging out with Jerry, Mt. Girl and Charles Reich. Not really an interview but rather a group of people having a "stoned conversation". Some really interesting stuffCharles seems to have dropped all his inhibitions since the first interview and really opens up to Jerry it sometimes seems as though Jerry's interviewing Reich.

The first interview has been Published in the book "Garcia by the editors of Rolling Stone", but the "stoned Sunday rap" makes this a must buy for any fan.

Signpost to New Space
Wow! Someone finally reissued this excellent book. First published by Straight Arrow Publishers, I bought my copy new back in '72 and read it often. It is a great interview with Garcia at a time when the Dead were just taking off. Garcia reveals he "has just made the commitment" to see where the music takes him, and as we all know, the band really went places. Hopefully, the current publishers have reissued it in its original form.

The second part of the book, "A Stoned Sunday Rap," is a great piece that really gets to the heart and soul of the Dead experience, beyond the music. I've always admired the philosophy behind the music for its zen-like approach to life and living; Garcia and Reich tease out the details.

A must-read for anyone who enjoys the Dead. Much better than any of the tell-alls that have been published recently. ... Read more

Book Description

John Henry "Bonzo" Bonham was the godfather of hard rock drumming - and he remains an idol to legions of Led Zeppelin and heavy metal fans worldwide. Although Bonham had to be courted away from more lucrative offers, he joined the newly formed band in 1968, helping guitarist Jimmy Page and vocalist Robert Plant create such famous songs as "Stairway to Heaven" and "Kashmir" until his sudden death in 1980 at the age of 32. His unmistakable drum patterns are among the most emulated and sampled by todayÕs rock drummers. This book is the first biography focusing on Bonham, providing a detailed track-by-track analysis of his greatest recordings, 45 color photos, and the most detailed and accurate inventory ever of BonhamÕs drum kits and percussion equipment. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

a big disappointment
I had high hopes for this book. I have been a John Bonham fan since I was a kid. He was the reason I wanted to learn to play the drums. This book falls short by skating over many of the Led Zeppelin years. I have read both 'Hammer of the Gods' and 'Stairway to Heaven' and I had high hopes that this book would be as good as those, but just focused more on Bonzo than the whole band. Unfortunately, this book just doesn't cut it as a biography. It's got some neat photos and the analysis of Bonham's playing and his drum setups are great, but the rest of the book is more like a high school term paper. The authors should read 'Stevie Ray Vaughan: Caught in The Crossfire' by Joe Nick Patoski and Bill Crawford for clues about how to write a biography, then try again to write a Bonham biography. The Led Zeppelin DVD is a FAR better investment than this book.

A Good Place to Start
It's nice to finally see a book that focuses on Zeppelin's secret weapon, Bonzo. Not only was he one of the greatest ever, his drum SOUND was without parallel. Reading about how he tuned his drums and other information about he got that sound was invaluable. Like another reviewer stated, too much time was spent on his pre-Zep days, and not enough as part of Hammer of the Gods era. The last chapter, with individual tracks explained was great, but it also have been nice to see some transcriptions of some of his amazing fills, etc. If you buy this book, you also owe it to yourself to buy the new Zeppelin DVD, which allows to see Bonzo in action in a serious way for the first time (it's light years better than "The Song Remains the Same."). If you do want to know where John's greatness came from, this book is a good place to start.

A Book for any Drummer
Obviously the best rock drummer of all time, the book includes ample information about Bonham's personal life, as well as his professional side and even his tricks of the trade.

The book is a clinic for rock drummers. Bonzo and others who worked with him, discuss how he tuned his drums, what drums he used and why, what to do and not to do about drumskins, and more.

The book also contains some remarkable color photos of the band on stage. With their dazzling light show, the photos suggest what it might have been like.

But what I can't understand is this. The book says that Bonham "drank vodka out of a bottle like water". Someone that far gone obviously needs help. With all of the people around him, did anyone try to organize a posse to get him some help?

Bonzo's alcoholizm even got to the point of interfering with rehearsals and shows, and soon after, ending his life. Did they all think they were invincible? Robert Plant's experiences in near previous years should have taught not. What a waste of an incredibly gifted musician, and a human being.

One Huge Blunder
OK, I love John Bonham, but the authors stated he died when he was 31, CORRECTION!! He died when he was 32! Do some more researh before you try to write a book...

bonzo
This book was great for 2 reasons its biographical, and drummer friendly. I would no suggest it to any zep fans for it drum terminaliogies. But if you are a drummer or a fan o the great bonzo go for it. ... Read more

Book Description

A labor of love, "The Ties That Bind" is an encyclopedic examination of the people, places, events, and recordings significant in the artistry and thirty-plus year career of one of America’s most eminent and enduring rock icons. Ranging from the Academy Awards to Warren Zevon and all points in between (including the mighty E Street Band), the encyclopedia examines all aspects of the Springsteen universe, including artistic, intellectual, and personal relationships, influences and the influenced, significant others, career evolution, recordings, side ventures, political forays, geographic bases, and, of course, legendary shows and venues.

With 300 entries (plus sidebars) and 100 photos (many previously unpublished), this is the first book that systematically and objectively chronicles Springsteen’s life and music. Plus, "The Ties That Bind" provides lists of concert appearances, television appearances, and E Street Band tribute bands and tribute albums; the text of Springsteen’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame speeches; and a lyric index, amid other comprehensive indexing.

Damon Gough (Badly Drawn Boy) and Mike Mills (of R.E.M.) each contribute the nicely written forewords.

Award-winning journalist, Gary Graff, is assisted by an elite ensemble of music writers hailing from Backstreets magazine, Rolling Stone, No Depression, and elsewhere, including Chris Phillips, Steve Knopper, Robert Santelli, Daniel Durchholz, Erik Flannigan, Robert Bader, Michael Norman, Jonathan Pont, Lynne Margolis, Matt Lee, and Jeffrey Zaslow. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A MUST-HAVE FOR ANY BRUCE FAN!
Old and new fans alike will love this Bruce Springsteen resource. Everything you've always wanted to know about the Boss...and more! If you like Bruce, you have to have this book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Michael Getz and John Dwork are serious deadheads. The two "passionately and relentlessly record and trade the Dead's music on tape." Who better then to compile a "database" of recorded Grateful Dead music? In this, the first volume, Getz and Dwork cover the years 1959 (the date of the first pre-Grateful Dead recordings) to 1974 (the year the band took an 18-month hiatus from touring). The listings are chronological and include the location of each show, the set list, source and length information, a quality rating, and a review of the recording.

Just in case this mass of detailed information about every known Grateful Dead recording made over an almost-20-year period does not satisfy your yen for the Dead, the book includes a centerfold of color photos of the band in concert. Additionally, the authors introduce the compendium with a philosophical assessment of the taping phenomenon, and interviews with the likes of soundman Owsley "Bear" Stanley and official Dead tape archivist Dick Latvala. A smattering of black-and-white photos and reproductions of original ticket stubs are sprinkled throughout. This book is almost sure to extend the long, strange trip of the Grateful Dead fan who opens it. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

A must for all Deadheads
Wow! What a book! An absolute must for all Deadheads and not just tapers. If you are an experienced taper, then this tells you all you need to know about the history of taping of Grateful Dead shows. If you are a newbie, it tells you how to start amassing you own collection of the world's most recorded rock band. And for all those interested in the Dead, it has an excellent sequence of colour photos, stacks of relevant interviews with members of the Dead's extended family, plus reviews of every known tape throughout the period covered in this, the first volume of what promises to be a massively important series. If you've been to any of the shows reviewed here, you're in for a real treat as you take that Long Strange Trip down memory lane - the reviews are of a consistently high standard. And the book tells the reader what tapes are worth getting, how to get hold of them, and what to listen out for once you've got them. Towards the back of the Compendium, there's a list of all the tracks the Dead played with show dates for the hottest versions of each of them - so, whether your favourite Dead track is Stella Blue, the Green Green Grass of Home, or Scarlet Begonias you can easily search out the best show for adding to your collection. My wish list is just about completely satisfied with this book - the only additional thing I could ask for (and I feel almost guilty mentioning it when the book is just so good) is individual track times as well as overall show length times. Roll on volume two.

A must-have for new & old fans of Grateful Dead music
This is an excellent reference book for beginners and experienced tape collectors alike. I particularly enjoyed the articles and interviews with the tapers. The individual tape reviews are very helpful in deciding which tapes to acquire and which ones to pull out of my collection and listen to again. There's a detailed "how to" section for those who want to take up the hobby of collecting live concert tapes. Great photos! Can't wait for Vol 2 & 3.

a deadhead's book of tales should be the title
This book has mis-directed focus. It proclaims to be a 'compendium' of recordings, set lists and reviews, but it is certainly unrealistic and virtually impossible to create a printed volume that doesn't become wildly inaccurate in a very short period of time. The advent of electronic media over the internet makes the print medium obsolete for this. And there are at least half a dozen different consistently updated online resources out there already for set lists and recordings.

So, if you leave out the set lists and notations of a relatively small group's collections, you are left with reviews. This part is an anecdotal amusement park. Absolute fun but in no uncertain terms should it be used as a reference for whether the 'tire-kickin' collector should check it out.

Very rarely would a serious or knowledgeable deadhead concur with even their closest and dearest friend on each other's unique and personal experience with the music. I'm paraphrasing, but even Jerry Garcia once said that he pushed Phil Lesh down a flight of stairs following a performance he thought was aweful, only to discover later while listening to the tapes that the show was "crackling with energy".

So, the title should be "an in-depth guide to the fiction known as 'deadheads opinion's of grateful dead on tape'"

The most important Dead biography!
Will the Dead's music continue to be sought and traded a hundred years from now? Perhaps, but regardless of that possibility, this book and its two proceeding volumes will continue to stand as unique testaments to the art of the band. Currently marketed as resources for tape traders, these volumes will evolve into something much more vital as the members of the band and their fans fade into time.

Never has music been more thoroughly documented and described in the context of it composers. Unprecidented! Imagine a biography about John Coltrane that included descriptions of each performance of his career!

If future generations are curious about The Grateful Dead, they will be interested in the band's art, not the personal flaws or outside experiences of its individual members. I believe these volumes will outlive all the many conventional biographies about the band. They cover the things we should be allowed to know about The Grateful Dead. The rest is "better left unsung."

reply to "bible"
in reference to : "This book should be used as a guideline for enhancing the experience of Grateful Dead taping and tape trading - not as a Bible. No Bible will ever exist for all the shows the band played because some were unfortunately either never taped or the tapes were lost to time."

Well...I believe that the grateful dead themselves should be the judge of that. They are the ones who possess almost all recorded versions of shows in existence. Only then should a comprehensive "bible" of tapes be published/. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you think John Lennon was the smart, arty Beatle while Paul was an empty head twittering prettily, this book will hip you to the facts. While John sat in the suburbs getting stoned to numb the pain of his imminent divorce, bachelor Paul was feeding his head by immersion in the London avant-garde. He pioneered the Beatles' experimental stuff, though his witty song-by-song account proves that it really was a 50-50 partnership--and some of the best innovations, like the snarling 1964 feedback intro to "I Feel Fine," happened by pure accident. Paul's insight into John's genius, which sprang from howling paranoia and a stark childhood, is still deeper than his insight into himself, but the book's true glory is its inside info on all those songs--the six tunes about John's marriage on A Hard Day's Night; Paul's heist of the "I Saw Her Standing There" bass line from Chuck Berry's "I'm Talking About You" (found on Berry's The Chess Box); the true meanings of "Norwegian Wood" (pine paneling, which the song's narrator burns to avenge the girl's refusal to have sex with him), "Got to Get You into My Life" ("you" is marijuana), and "Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da" ("life goes on" in Yoruba). This book is even better than A Hard Day's Write: The Stories Behind Every Beatles' Song and Revolution in the Head. Here is the last word on the Beatles, inevitably slanted toward McCartney but generally more convincing than Lennon's own recollections.--Tim Appelo ... Read more

Reviews (96)

Terrific Look Over The Wall Into McCartney's Private World!
Those of us who grew up watching the evolution of the Beatles and Paul McCartney will find this authoritative biography written by longtime friend Barry Miles a thought-provoking and interesting glimpse into many aspects of McCartney's otherwise quite private and personal life story. The view is startling, given the fact that so many in the media have forwarded the view that Paul was the lesser of the two main creative forces within the group. The account delivered here via a long-running series of interviews with Paul puts the lie to that notion, showing just how influential and fateful were Paul's contribution to the Lennon and McCartney writing genius. It also gives the fascinated reader a mind-boggling glimpse into the creative forces behind the individual songs, and travels knowingly along the historic path leading each of the "Fab Four" from poverty and obscurity to fabled fame and fortune. The result is a marvelous biography and an immensely entertaining reading experience.

The book is full of insider information about the genesis and sources of each of the songs and albums along the way, ranging from the creation of "I Saw Her Standing There" all the way to the "Long And Winding Road", at a time when the members of the group could barely stand to inhabit the same space for any period of time. We come to understand how the arrival of fame and fortune changed each of them forever, and although Paul's perspective is the only one aired here, one marvels at just how fair-minded and self-effacing he seems to be in assessing the values, contribution, and failings of each of the Beatles, himself included. It also shows just how instrumental the guidance of the so-called fifth Beatle, George Martin, was to both their initial breakthrough as well as to their successful riding of the wave-crest of fame that swept over them with such an enormous impact.

It also illustrates just how versatile and intelligent Paul has been, masterfully managing and orchestrating both his music and his fortune to become one of the wealthiest and most successful of the rock luminaries emerging from the sixties. And while his later music may have been disappointing in more critical terms, there is no doubting that he has been a continuing critical influence in the continuing evolution of popular music in the thirty years since the Beatles disbanded. Paul has had a rich and rewarding life, and has become a well-known benefactor of worthy causes and sometimes-reclusive widower of his long-time love and wife Linda, who died several years ago, succumbing to cancer. Still, the McCartney magic seems to shine, and this biography of him is both an interesting read and a privileged look behind the tall walls that he has built around himself in the last several decades. Given the crazed attack that fellow Beatle George Harrison suffered from a deluded fan, perhaps his concern about privacy and protection are all too well advised. Enjoy!

"A great for McCartney lovers"
This book is great for all Beatles and Paul McCartney fans. Paul's quotes and words about what the songs are really about are terrific. The story rarely gets boring as it tells almost everything about Paul's life, from losing his mother and meeting John, to playing in Hamburg, to the fame of the Beatles and finally to the present time and all that fits in between. One trouble I found with the book is how ready Barry Miles is to put down John as a doped up, lazy junkie...very far from the truth. He also finds ways to put Paul on an altar and condemn nearly EVERYTHING John has done. This is not true at all of Paul's words which are quoted as he rarely has anything bad to say about John, which is reassuring. Finally, another fault I found with the book is how Paul seems to be a glutton for credit of nearly every great Lennon-McCartney song...he gives himself much of the credit of the great songs of John's and claims he could almost never write a "middle-eight". Most disturbing of these claims is his taking 40% of the writing credit for "Norwegian Wood", says he wrote the entire musical part of "In My Life", and he takes a lot of credit for "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". However, he is not as ready to share the credit with many of his songs. But all in all I would recommend this book for Beatle fans as it gives an inside view of how things began and tells a story behind most of the songs made and then gives good details surrounding the break-up and justifies his actions when suing the other Beatles.

McCartney's Beatles
You're not going to find a better book that points out Paul's contributions to the Beatles. Paul's cooperation and reflections are the bulk of the book. Between passages of history, McCartney adds long quotes about his memories and experiences of specific events. He disagrees with the public record on some pretty interesting things.

First, he doesn't believe the popularly held idea that the death of Brian Epstein was anything but an accident.

Second, he says that the Beatles were never angry at the Maharishi. They didn't consider him a fraud as popularly reported. They had just learned everything they needed to learn from him and they wanted to get back to real life. Paul says he still meditates using the mantra taught to him by the Mararishi. John's song Sexy Sadie was indeed about some disillusionment with the spiritual leader, but the feelings weren't lasting.

Third, the collaboration between John and Paul lasted into the later years of the Beatles when most people assumed that they were writing their songs solo and tacking on the other's name. Paul talks about John's help with Hey Jude and his own contribution to the Ballad of John and Yoko.

Fourth, Paul is very fair with everyone. He doesn't blame Yoko for breaking up the Beatles. He thinks that Yoko probably saved the H addicted John's life and thus extended the life of the Beatles. He surprisingly doesn't blame Yoko for his conflicted relationship with John after the breakup.

People can argue on whether McCartney's vision is the reality or what he wants to portray. Either way, you won't get a complete picture of the Beatles without reading this book.

In Spite of All the Danger...
...of feeling some disappointment, I felt this was worth reading.

An inveterate Paul McCartney fan, I was interested in what this author had to say about the former Beatle and highly gifted performer. Although I found the love between Linda and Paul lovely and highly moving, I was displeased to see how harshly John was described. It was like a yin-yang balance - the tone used in describing Paul was one of fawning deference and on the other hand, John was described in an almost condemnatory fashion. I didn't like that.

On the plus side, the lighter moments such as Paul and Linda's trips to New York were cheery and loving. I also enjoyed reading about the final Beatle movie, "Let It Be" which is more or less a chronicle of the dissolution of the group.

I found this work to be mediocre.

Where is my review?
I wrote two reviews more than one week ago. They were never posted. Why? ... Read more

Reviews (11)

robert hunter is...
... one of the greatest poets ever. in my opinion. reading his poems as oposed to listning to them on a album is a vastly differnet experiences. his words touch me like no other. this book is absolutly amazing, especially reading the things the dead never played. "jack o roses" the seventh section of "terrapin station" is the most beautiful thing iever read ( you can hear hunter sing it by going to the hunter archive at dead.net". everyone should read this, and for the few that really get it, it will be a transcendant experinece.

Bay Area Psychedelic Poesie
I have to admit to a great deal of personal bias here because I am a lifelong DeadHead. So it stands to reason that my opinions towards Hunter may be a bit coloured and clouded. (Pun possibly intended.) But this is a wonderful collection of lyrics. Hunter is a true poet whose song lyrics deserve to live and breathe in printed form. I always felt there was a poetry to rock lyrics: Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, Jim Morrison, Richard Hell et al. Robert Hunter also deserves to be recognized on that list of Rock Poet Laureates. Beautiful lyrics like Box Of Rain and Ripple take on a new life when read from the page. It gives one the chance to see how good the use of language actually was. Terrapin is a tour de force epic of Rock poetry and almost everything from American Beauty and Workingmans Dead ring out as great poetry. While there is some average, weaker material as well, this gives Hunter a chance to earn acknowledgment for the fine poet that he is. The Grateful Dead would never have achieved their legendary status without the mystical, magical lyric ability of Robert Hunter. This book is a treasure trove that deserves a place next to the Dylan lyric book from 62-85 and the collection of lyrics put out by Lou Reed as well.

STRANGE FIGURES OF LIGHT FLOAT IN AIR....
you need to buy this book. you wont regret it.. its got the most amazing lyrics/poems youll ever read!! Robert Hunter could possibly be the best lyricist of all time.

Becouse I hav'nt read the book yet.
You know how sometimes or for some of you's, All the time, you can open a book turn on the radio say Hello to a stranger(insert a situation here) and the answer the comfort the direction you need is being laid out before you. Sort of a Serendipidus I-Ching reading. Well "Aim at the Heart" is one of those moments. wich is why I have put my comments here, but only (2)stars. Robert, May we all age so Gracefully.

'If My Words Did Glow With The Gold Of Sunshine........
...and my tunes were played on the harp unstrung would you hear my voice come through the music would you hold it near as it were your own?' Part of the experience of a Grateful Dead concert (and now The Other Ones, Ratdog, Phil Lesh and friends, and Mickey Hart's band) was listening to the words of Robert Hunter dance and twirl in your head. Hunter probably isn't the greatest American poet of the second half of the 20th Century, but he does know how to turn a phrase, borrow a line, and mix a metaphor. And his strange mix of phrases went well with the strange mix of American music written by the late Jerry Garcia. Box Of Rain is a must reference for anyone interested in the lyrical end of rock and roll. The book will clear up many an on going debate on just what Jerry was singing all those nights so long ago. And for all those people who can't understand why the Grateful Dead was so successful, this book will let you in on part of the secret. 'If you get confused, just listen to the music play....' ... Read more

Book Description

Authorized by the band, this is the inside story of U2's live career, from the very beginning to now-with more than 500 exclusive photos from the U2 archive, including many never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes shots.

Everything about U2 is huge-from their music to their tours to their influence on popular culture and politics worldwide. They are cultural icons as well as multimillion-album-selling pop stars.

Underpinning the band's popularity, from the beginning, is their passion for touring. For more than twenty years, U2 has been primarily a live band-hardly ever off the road. Performing live is what they love to do best. And it is their touring that defines their creativity and reflects the direction of the band. From the first bare-bones Tick Tock Tour of 1980 through the massive, seminal Joshua Tree and ZooTV tours of the eighties and nineties to the most recent, more intimate Elevation Tour of 2001, it is their live shows that have set U2's agenda.

For the first time, the band has agreed to chronicle this vital part of its creative energy. More than 500 photos from hundreds of performances have been handpicked from a twenty-five-year archive. Many of these photos are behind-the-scenes shots that have never been published before. The book includes commentary by Diana Scrimgeour, the official photographer on recent tours, as well as first-person accounts from band members, the core creative team, friends, and associates.

U2 Show is the music publishing event of 2004. ... Read more

Book Description

For the first time in paperback, and fully updated-the definitive history of the most popular rock-and-roll band of all time, the Eagles.

The Eagles are the most popular, enduring rock band in America. With singles and albums hitting the top of the charts for a quarter century and a greatest hits collection that has sold more copies than any other recording in history, the Eagles have entered the pantheon of pop music. To the Limit is the unauthorized account of the group from its earliest years through the breakup, solo careers, and reunions.

Blending the country and folk music of the late sixties with the melodic seductiveness of Detroit-style roots rock, the Eagles brought a new sound to a stagnant music scene. Under the brilliant management of David Geffen, the Eagles projected a public image of unshakable camaraderie-embodied by the cerebral, brooding Don Henley and the intuitive, self-destructive Glenn Frey-bolstered by the gorgeous harmonies of their songs. Behind the scenes, however, there was another story.

At turns revealing, inspiring, funny, and shocking, To the Limit is the chronicle of a time, a place, and a group that succeeded in changing forever the world of popular music. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

The book lacks details and is rather smug through out.
What a disappointment this book was! 'Hoping to learn the in-depth history of my all-time favorite band, this book left me with more questions than it did answers. Mr. Eliot could have done us all a favor and left out alot of the behind the scenes dealings of the music industry. While a fraction of the material was relevant to story of the Eagles, the majority of it was not. Few kind words were said about any of the band's members save for Don Henley - who was in fact, the chief reason for the break-up of the band in the first place. This fact seems to be lost amidst Mr. Eliot's ranting about the solo success Henley had after the Eagles, and going too far in-depth on Henley's personal life. True, there is some interesting information about the band's early years and their trials and tribulations during the time when Rock and Roll was taking on a new face. Also of some interest is the fact that Kenny Rodgers took an interest in the band very early only to see them go elsewhere and find incredible success without him. But overall, the book says little that is flattering about anyone other than Henley, and to a far lesser extent, Glenn Frey. Perhaps Mr. Eliot should have researched Randy Meisner's time with Poco a little more diligently; the members of that band had nothing but praise for him. Little praise is given to the talents and contributions of Don Felder, Bernie Leadon and Timothy Schmidt. The big question I have after reading the book is; " Did Mr. Eliot owe Don Henley a favor?" Do yourself a favor and wait for the paperback version or wiat until you see it on the bargain table.

Eagles soar despite biased writing
Having long been a fan of the Eagles, I was quite ready to read a biography of this splendid, though somewhat lacking Southern California band. Eliot does a fair job of presenting their history, but he lacks in descriptions about the making of the music, and he focuses too much on Don Henley. On one hand Eliot seemed to be fixated with Henley, and on the other hand he seemed to have an axe to grind with him. To The Limit really came off more as a Don Henley book, than an Eagles book.
For one thing there are too few quotes from Glenn Frey, who in my opinion really gave the band its heart. Just because Henley began singing almost half of the songs on the last two albums, doesn't mean he should have. I can think of several songs, that Glenn Frey could have sung just as well. I'd also like to have learned more about why Leadon and Meisner quit. Though Eliot did explain it in some detail, there was much missing. It would have been interesting to have heard from Glenn Frey on those issues, as well as from Leadon and Meisner.
The book is heavy in quotes from Henley, but short on quotes from any other band members. Much of the material seems to come from other previously published material, i.e. Rolling Stone reviews, interviews, articles, and much of it comes from Mansion On the Hill, a detracting book written in the early 90s which includes a section on Geffen and Azoff.
While is was interesting reading about Henley's take on Joe Walsh joining the band, I would have really liked reading about Joe's take on joining the band. In my opinion, Walsh's guitar playing saved the Eagles from fading into country-rock mediocraty.
I would have also liked to have learned more about Felder's role in the band. Learing about Felder's role in the song, Hotel California was really interesting, but it made me want to know more about Felder's and Walsh's guitar work. How did they work out strategies? How did they bounce ideas around? Did they feel left out of the inner-cirlce?
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed reading about the Eagles, and I'd like to read another book about them, though I'd really like for it to be less about Don Henley, and more about the Eagles.

Unreadable
I am filing this "review" in the hopes of bringing down the average number of stars for this truly awful book. I love juicy rock bios, so I thought this would be just the book for me. Look how wrong you can be! The two main problems with this book are as follows:

1) It is unspeakably boring. I honestly couldn't even finish it; the grind just wore me down.

2) Factual errors. Others have already pointed this out, but it is especially galling to see George Grantham (the superb musician and singer from Poco) referred to as George Lantham. And how 'bout that gig in Hawthorne Beach? Where the heck is that? Somewhere between the City of Hawthorne and Hermosa Beach, perhaps. You get the idea . . . . It would drive you out of your mind if you weren't already bored out of your mind.

Perhaps the fact that Amazon has 62 used copies ("from $2.95") gives you the best indication of this book's overall merit. Proceed at your own risk.

Dull,Boring......Just like its subject.
Unfortunately,most of the airwaves of the 70's were assaulted by the mellifluent,pedestrian,nondescript, and light rock sounds of the Eagles. This book is written in a smug tone.....Again,just like its subject matter. The Eagles were/are everything that is wrong with popular music. Think of it as watered down Bud Lite. Music for extremely white folks. Henley's exploits are enough to cause R.Kelley to blush. And I'm not talking about Henley's nondescript drumming abilities. WOW!! Whoda thunk it? Too bad so little attention was directed towards the other players. Most of whom,have accomplished music careers outside of the Eagles. Notice without the collective known as the Eagles,Henley and Frey can't write a decent tune.....And I use the term decent quite loosely.

Obvious mistakes cast doubt on author's research
It wasn't a bad book; neither was it a great book. I also noticed some of the odd errors and omissions that other reviewers have pointed out. An obvious mistake that the author makes is describing the song "Get Over It" as "...a comical, good-natured nod at the feud between Henley and Frey." Did Eliot even listen to the song? I always thought it was about low-brow, opportunist morons on afternoon talk shows like Oprah and Montel. This is confirmed by the Eagles themselves in the liner notes of the recent release of "The Eagles: The Very Best Of." When the author makes overt goofs like this, the reader has to wonder about other 'facts'. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Objective Biography
For any fan, the biography of their idol is usually found wanting. As a U2 fan and Bono enthusiast, it's difficult for me to give a good review on a biography of Bono simply because it's irrelevant for me to own a biography on Bono. For the obsessive fan, there's rarely any new information that i haven't already heard; also, biography's on living people are already hard to judge simply because they're obsolete the day they're released.

All of that aside, this book was a great addition to my U2 collection. Jackson presents a well-rounded look at the rock star's life, focussing mostly on his social work. Of course, if i had written this book it would have been gushing with admiration and fan-boy emulation. the fact that it's not proves that it's a superior, well-written account written for anybody on the reader spectrum, long-time fans and non-fans alike.

My only complaint is the lack of focus on Bono's spiritual side. This book almost gives the impression that Bono's endeavors are purely socially and politically motivated, almost without any transcendent consideration. Of course, enough has been written and discusssed about Bono's spirituality, so perhaps a fresh take on his life story thus far is something fans can use. However, for a social and spiritual balance, i recommend reading Walk On: The Spiritual Journey of U2, although that succumbs to several of the inherent problems with fan biographies. ... Read more

Book Description

On July 3rd, 1971, one of the most popular rock stars of all time, Jim Morrison, died of a drug overdose. Or, did he? ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Captivating
The story draws its reader into the drama of the book. It is very well written. Thank you Marshal Lawrence Pierce III for your creative imagination and your contribution to literature.

could be written by jim... but we all know he died in 1971
I was intrigued by the title. I ordered a copy of this book and read it entirely the evening it arrived. I was captivated by the stories. I wanted to believe this was truly Jim. It sounded like Morrison to me. But I've been to his grave site. Morrison died in 1971.

If this is not really written by Jim, then this author/editor knows Morrison well.

Even though I don't believe Morrison was alive during the time period these entries are supposedly written, I still look forward to subsequent volumes as promised - the cover page says this is Book I of III. These diary entries are as close to the real Jim Morrison as you can find. Real or not, if you're a Doors fan, this book is a must read.

Bravo
Hands down, this was an excellent read. Superbly crafted in such a way to pull the reader in. I believed this was real. Bravo!!! Marshal Lawrence Pierce III - to find a writer so sensitive and to possess such high powers of empathy!
Thank you!

A masterful new work of art
This amazing book flirts with the myth of the disappearance of Jim Morrison after his death. An interesting view of the personal life of Jim as poet - as human. Become captured by the prose. Live with Jim through his struggles and triumphs; grimace at his vulgarity; weep for his humanity. Discover yourself.

Jim -- The Lizard King
This book is simply a master piece. A relative collaboration of Jim's life. An excellent read! ... Read more

Book Description

Millions of words have been written about The Beatles, but nobody knew them quite like Alistair Taylor. Originally published as A Secret History, and now in paperback, this is a unique insider portrait of the Fab Four. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Beatles from the Inside
Just when you thought you had read everything there was to know about the Beatles, another book comes along! But this one is unlike the others in that it is told from a different angle. Alistair Taylor was in a unique position and this book shows it. I am glad to add it to my collection of books about the Beatles.

Many great stories
Alistair Taylor was Brian Epstein's personal assistant and the "Mr. Fix-it" to the Beatles in the sixties. In this long overdue memoir, Mr. Taylor takes us briskly through the Beatles story firsthand, from Taylor's accompanying Epstein to see the Beatles for the first time at the Cavern, to his final ignominious sacking at the hands of Allen Klein. Anyone who has an interest in picking this book up will probably already have a pretty good understanding of the Beatles' history, so it won't matter that the book is cursory in describing the chronological details of that story. Instead, this book is best read for its many anecdotes, which give us insight into the personalities involved, especially Brian, John, and Paul. Taylor himself comes off as a likeable, loyal fellow and while he is honest, he does not dish nasty dirt the way Peter Brown did in his book "The Love You Make." Taylor also takes time to clear up certain myths, among them the idea that there ever was a "Raymond Jones" who came looking for the Beatles' German single "My Bonnie" at Brian Epstein's shop. (Taylor made the name up when he placed the order himself.)Taylor also cannot hide his disappointment with the Beatles, whom he served so loyally, when they did nothing to prevent his firing in the end. (Indeed, they don't even mention Taylor in "the Beatles Anthology," though they do reprint the famous photo ad he appeared in for Apple records.)
So, while this book is rather a jumpy hodge-podge of anecdotes, it will give you a new admiration for Brian Epstein, an appreciation of the mirthful madness of working with the Beatles, and some understanding of why they inspired such loyalty in the first place. Recommended for fans.

Finally, something new about the fab four!!!!
You'll learn stuff about the Beatles and those around them that you won't see anywhere else! Some good, some not so good, some bad. Eye-opening and a great read!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Join Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley as they take you on a wild ride through the early years ofkiss
with rock photographer Waring Abbott.

• With 250 photos of the hottest band in the world!
• Rare, behind-the-scenes pics of Gene, Paul, Ace, Peter, and Eric!
• Stories from Gene and Paul about life on the road, makeup tips, publicity stunts, and much more! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Good historical book...from Gene and Paul's view
If you buy this book be prepared to get more of Paul and Gene's bashing Ace and Peter, more self-indulgence and lots of Gene's "we are the greatest band in the world" and Paul's "Women love my hairy chest" and all that stuff. On the good side, the pictures presented here are amazing. From a walk on Central Park in full makeup! circa. 1975, to a session of facials the band got in a beauty parlor, the rare pics are worth the price of the book alone. You will read this book in an hour and certainly will enjoy the dozens of pictures Waring Abbott shot from 1974 to 1981. I would have liked for the leaders of the band and writers of the book to comment more on each individual photo and also invite Ace and Peter to give their two cents on the shots. Anyway, a good book on Kiss at a not so high price. Great for any fan of the band.

The Classic KISS
A fantastic book for any KISS fan. The beauty of KISS is they have always been not only a great band to listen to, but even more so, a great band to look at. This book captures the band on their rise to super stardom and includes pictures from the Elder era when the band were rock Icons on their way down. True KISS fans like myself are always on the hunt for new sights and sounds of the band, and this book delivers many new unpublished photos that everyone will enjoy. From pictures of the band applying makeup, to the infamous Cadillac, Michigan high school event. Fantastic color and black and white photos abound, guaranteed to satisfy all KISS fans. A must have.

To DIE for
This book was really amazing because of its historical and photographic conception. I was really blown away by the quality of this photo book because it makes other bands' books look puny and unimportant. Many times bands put out books that offer either too much boring writing without content or dazzling photos in empty pages. Here Kiss is the focus and the images and content is actually very exciting. It works to their visual appeal and charismatic persona. The quality of the photos is really breathtaking and juicy enough for the viewer to have a glimpse into the backstage lives of America's nuttiest band. Buy this and add it to your collection.

ONE OF TWO WORTHWHILE ROCK BOOKS JUST OUT
I have been a Kiss fan since I was a boy in the mid 1970s and what a trip down memory lane this book was. It was pretty cool to see all these pictures from the early years and hear the stories behind them. I have to admit that I was fascinated to see it all for the first time. But would I still buy a new Kiss album...probably not. It was just a little nostalgia. I recommend this one...but the better brand new rock book I've read is "LAYNE STALEY: Angry Chair" about the Alice In Chains singer who died from a little too much isolation for five years and a lot of heroin and depression.

A Must For Any True KISS Fan...
If you love KISS, you'll love this book. Has many pictures that even the hardcores, like myself, have never seen. Alot of stuff from when the band first started out. When they had little money and were struggling to be the topps in NY. Many photos show the true integrity of the band. ... Read more

Book Description

Beginning their career as a popular surf band, the Beach Boys had emerged by 1966 as America's preeminent pop group, the only act able to challenge the success of the Beatles with both mainstream listeners and the critical community. The Beach Boys tracks every move in this great band's career. With the help of band members, the author has reconstructed their evolution into one of the best-produced groups of the '60s, exemplified by their 1966 peak with the Pet Sounds LP and the number-one single Good Vibrations. The book also profiles Brian Wilson, one of the most gifted songwriters, producers, and arrangers in popular music, whose 1967 nervous breakdown required the band to carry on without his full participation. The book's easy-to-browse, day-by-day format details the group's entire concert history, all known recording sessions, their broadcast history, and all records issued in the U.S. and the U.K. The book also includes 100 photographs, many of which have never been published. ... Read more

Book Description

The official lyric book containing the words to every one of Tori's released songs, from the best-loved hits to the rarest B-sides.Featuring the lyrics to over 100 songs, a foreward by Tori herself, and orignal artwork by Hern Leonhard, this beautiful, collectible book is a must for all Tori Amos fans.Includes 35 full color illustrations. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A Must Have for The Tori Amos Fan!
This is possibly the most exciting thing I own from Tori Amos aside from her actual music. There are over 100 different songs displayed for your reading and pondering pleasure. But not only is having most of Tori's lyrics at my fingertips incredibly divine, but Herb Leonhard's illustrations are absolutely extraordinary and take my breath away. He has truly captured Tori's dreamscapes with his art. This is a brilliant marriage of image and idea. Well worth the money! xo

Great book!
This book is absolutely beautiful. Not only does it have lyrics to over 100 of Tori's songs, from "Crucify" to "Bells for Her" to "Talula" to "Spark" to "Bliss", it has every song off of all her albums from "Little Earthquakes" to "To venus and back", plus several of her B sides and songs she wrote when she wasn't Tori (i.e. "Just Ellen.") The paintings are absolutely gorgeous, and go well the with songs they accompany (see "Bliss" and "Waitress.") This is a must have for all Tori fans.

Good but...
... this would be better if there was sheet music to accompany it. I don't just want to read her lyrics; I want to play her music. I think this is a book for Tori Amos fans only.

look for a "like new" used copy
I was turned off by the price, so I got it for half off used. The artwork is beautiful! The book is very handy for looking up lyrics from a certain song, especially b-sides. The songs are listed in alphabetical order. It is a bright addition to my tori collection.

"You don't need my voice girl you have your own" - Bells For Her, Tori Amos
...

Lyrics book - Tori Amos
An absolutely beautiful book! The introduction by Tori was delightful and touching. This is the book Tori fans have been waiting for, for such a long time...the words to her sometimes incoherent pronunciations have now been clarified and the beautiful illustrations enhance the meanings of her songs. This is a must for true Tori fans...a great example of the power of words, their affect on us, and Tori's committment to stand by them. ... Read more

Book Description

No one knew Led Zeppelin like Richard Cole. The band's tour manager for more than a decade, Cole was there when they burst onto the music scene, achieved cult status, cut platinum records, and transformed popular music. Second only to the Beatles in sales for years, Led Zeppelin was rock's premier group. But unlike the boys from Liverpool, the excitement of this band"s music was matched by the fever pitch of their antics on and off the stage....

In hotel rooms and stadiums, in a customized private Boeing 707 jet and country estates, Richard Cole saw it all -- and here he tells it all in this close-up, down-and-dirty, no-holds-barred account that records the highs, the lows, and the occasional in-betweens. This revised edition brings fans up to date on the band members' lives and careers, which may be a little quieter now, but their songs remain the same.

Reviews (38)

A Candid Portrayal of Led Zeppelin
The novel Stairway To Heaven: Led Zeppelin Uncensored is a truly adventurous novel that provides a candid portrayal of the colossal band, Led Zeppelin. Throughout the lengthy novel the reader discovers the most vivid description of each of the band members. After reading the book I feel as if I have drunken tea with Robert Plant or even jammed with Jimmy Page. The author and former road manager, Richard Cole, leads the reader on a wild escapade from the band's heroin addiction to their obsession to J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings. The book provides an ample background for each of the band members' pre-Zeppelin days and also follows up on the members' lives after the band's downfall. The vast range of the novel touches lightly on many events while only focusing much attention on certain events. While describing the band's many wild experiences, Cole eloquently adds extra meaning and depth to many of Led Zeppelin's songs, which turns a fan like myself into a raving zealot. After reading the biography I have found myself even more passionate about the band's music and it has fed my hunger to learn more about the seemingly mysterious band of generations past.

The novel was very well written, providing both a pinch of drama to an abundance of comedy. The best feature of the novel was the author's input on many of the songs that the band produced. His input usually derived from what Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, the two main writers of most of their songs, had to say about the music they produced. The most interesting piece of information is that the song "Stairway to Heaven" was originally written with reggae-style music and accent but on the band's first cut they played it without their intended reggae influence and produced that copy. Cole also invites the reader into each of the band members' lives outside of the band, which is usually not done because rock stars treasure the little privacy they receive.

The worst thing about the book is that some events of the band's long journey are not touched upon very strongly. Some events draw much interest but because there is so much to say, Cole neglects to elaborate on many interesting events that the band experienced. Also, the time period for much of the biography is not very clear, which isn't too bad, but it is good to know when all the events occurred. Cole toured with the band for many years and developed a much stronger relationship with Jimmy Page than with Robert Plant, which produces a biased opinion on some conflicts and also directs much of the book's focus on Jimmy Page while largely neglecting John Paul Jones. Jimmy and Robert are the most famous and many readers know plenty about them already, and a main reason for reading the book could have been to discover more about the less popular members.

Often Maligned, but...
This book isn't as bad as one might believe it to be. Mainly it's been criticised by Robert Plant for Richard Cole selling out and manufacturing stories and attributing events to Zep. Still, it does give some insights into Cole's relationship with the band. Cole undeniably had a long history with Zeppelin. Like "Hammer of the Gods" - one has to take this one as an anecdotal account and with a pinch of salt...

I found it to be readable.

i truthfully never have read the book
i havent read the book yet but after reading numerous reviews i do not feel enthusiastic about reading it. what i really want to know from a zeppelin fan is the comment i once heard about zeppelin being satanic....if you have any information email me about it at ccrew180@yahoo.com

LIBEL! This book is so lawsuit worthy!
Richard Cole is a vile man. This "book" is one lie on top of another. Like others have said, Jimmy Page has dismissed this book and denounced Cole for the lying, no-good snake he is. After Bonham died, Cole lost everything he had and spent several years in an Italian prison. He is bitter and money-hungry--so don't waste your money on this trash!

Led Zeppelin
Personally i think this was a very intrseting book. It's been said many times that most of it was lies. Now i'm not saying that, that statement is wrong but i dont think all of the book is fiction. Maybe 40% of it is. I think Cole only did it for money because he was broke. Many people would probably agree with me that the only reasons cole was the tour manager was because he thought they had potential to make him money and so he could score some free smack. It's one of the better books bout the band, but, Page should get an authour to write his story of led zeppelin. Not that page needs or wants anymore money but the truth should be known. P.S If anyone thinks that Plant (Eventhough he was great) was not the reason Zep was good... Page = Zeppelin. This Book by Richard Cole should be read though. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

GENE DOES IT AGAIN!
Gene Simmons does it again, with his second book: SEX MONEY KISS. He has written another great piece of work! Plus, his philosophy is now accessible to the public! This book is a financial advise-type of book, explaining how Gene started out as a poor boy in Israel, and came to America, making millions as he lives his life. The information presented in this book is much to my taste. I like the way Gene thinks, acts, and writes. He is so awesome. I just love reading his writing, the subjects are great, his opinions are great, and his writing style is great. He is just a great, great man! This is very informative to KISS fans as well as anybody who is in the market for some good advice or a new philosophy.

"New York Times bestselling author (KISS and Make-Up) GENE SIMMONS returns to explain his philosophy of life: how he's gotten more sex, money, and KISS than he ever imagined... and how you can too." [Gene Simmons Front Cover]

I picked this book because it was written by possibly the greatest man on earth... Gene Simmons. He is my favorite band member of the greatest group in rock history: KISS. Plus, this is written around Gene's philosophy, which makes people who follow it, lots of money. I like money also, so yet another reason I chose this book. Another thing, cover is sure to catch your eye. It features a bright, silver-metallic background, with Gene's mouth presenting his unusually long tongue. I find this cover quite awesome. It's sure to grab your attention! He did a great job on the presentation of the book itself. It's very neat and the appearance of the cover is great.

"Let's face it, just because I stick out my tongue a lot and spit fire doesn't mean I have any qualifications to advise anyone on relationship, money or career issues. I don't. Yet I've lived with a beautiful woman for twenty years with never a cross word between us, in a relationship based on honesty and full disclosure. I've amassed a fortune-and 'expert business people' work for me. And for three decades I've been in KISS- a bad that has scaled the heights and broken every possible record, from album sales to touring to merchandising and licensing." [Gene Simmons Front Cover]

I loved this book for the reasons such as: it was written, in a sense, very similar to the way I think, and it was written by my role-model, about how he made his fortune. The fact that it was written by him added greatly to my enjoyment. Gene was also an English teacher before he started hitting it big in KISS. I'm guessing that is why he writes so greatly. This book is almost flawless. You just have to keep an open mind to what he's saying. Personally, he could tell me to go jump off a cliff, and I would do it. Although, I don't think that a lot of people are so greatly committed to being a KISS fan as I am. Still, his advice is definitely worth considering. It could be very helpful to those who are in need of a financial track.

"Believe in your gut feelings... your own instincts. Everyone around you will tell you why something won't work. It's up to you to prove them wrong and be there at the finish line to collect." [Gene Simmons 74]

Summing up this review, there wasn't a thing I didn't like about this book. The author (Gene) writes wonderfully, the content is very informative, plus the appearance and overall presentation are excellent. It was a very good piece of literature. It also helps if you have read his other New York Time's best selling book: KISS and Make-up. It too has a bunch of wonderful information about Gene, as well as the rest of the band, and his thoughts on different subjects. Both books are a must for the big-time KISS fans. Well, Gene, keep on writing, we'll keep on reading!

Interesting book
Gene Simmons is many things--celebrity, entertainer, singer,songwriter, bass player, producer, actor and owner of a 7 inch tongue, yet since the 90's Gene Simmons has certainly showed his muscles as a great business man and a hands-on person who will take the bull by the horns to get the job down and fulfill his american dreams. All on his own, he's published his 1st book KISSTORY & did official KISS conventions all on his own, worked out the red tape with Ace & Peter to do the KISS reunion, and many other marketing avenues like 100's of KISS collectibles, his own magazine TONGUE, cartoon show MY DAD THE ROCKSTAR and put out a new solo cd...Basicly, this is the sister book to KISS & MAKE-UP...where K&MU was an autobiography, SEX, $, KISS is his story of how he lives by his own rules--wheather it's dealing with his relationships with women, his do-it-yourself additude to make money and fulfill his dreams and how he turned KISS (again!) into a multimillion corporation by managing the Band himself since the early 1990's. I like how Gene is so self motivating...in this book, he explains how he rolls up his sleeves, researches how to produce, market & distribute many things like books, conventions, band member contracts and the such and how it can pay off in the end and how by reading the book, can utilize his advice to reach your goals for as much $$$ you can get out of a job or product..nice touches in the book are his sample drawings of works in process that have succeeded like his magazine, selling his own line of bass guitars and comic books and some that haven't--or haven't yet--like KISS sneakers and,yes, KISS toilet paper!!...the part about his views on woman & marriage is blunt, yet truthful in some instances and is very entertaining and humorous... Some things in this book hit home and other things you can take with a grain of salt..Gene has great charisma, and I love hearing him talk in interviews and, now, in books--Gene is NOT a stupid rockstar--he is an extremely smart & savy business man who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty to reach his goals---he calls distributors, adding a personal touch with the poeple he works with to create & distribute his merchandise and ideas, researches, manufacturers and is into the design and concept of many of his goods & products---from KISS arena tours to movies to comics, action figures--and even a KISS wreastler--Gene's THE MAN and a great role model for any businessman--weather you try to work at being a rockstar to having the most popular fruit stand on a street corner, Gene's delivery in these pages can offer you clarity, guidance and an esteem booster!!!..Thru music or literature, Gene sure makes you think and can give you a kick in the pants to get up and live and do your best to reach happiness & fortune. This book was great and reccommend it to both KISS and non-KISS fans!!

My New Financial Advisor
There's something almost heroic about Gene's single-minded ability to gouge as much money from his fans as possible.

But the results don't lie. Gene gives solid advice and tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to.

I can't wait for his lectures to be put on dvd. Man, he's got me buying more Kiss Krap!

Not much to understand but a lot to get...
Ok, here's the deal with this book (and his other "Kiss and Make-Up"): his philosophy is based on a typical I-was-poor-as-a-child-and-now-i'm-rich approach. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that, of course. In fact, as simplistic as what he writes is, it doesn't make it any less true.
He basically states that if you save your money and create ways to make new money based off of what you KNOW ALREADY, you can't loose. Keep yourself clean (no drugs, alcohol, etc.). Keep yourself straight minded and accumulate allies/friends for the purposes of bettering yourself. Good grief, man! That's the American credo! I would think not taking this book for what it states would be anti-American!
insert funny footnote here: I've noticed that Gene continuously talks of how you should not waste your money and that you should live (just) below your means. And yet for his fans he has PLENTY of knick-knacks and trinkets that people can waste their money on. (some examples include [and I kid you NOT]: a KISS baby-bib, a KISS motorcycle, Key chains and even--get this--a KISS casket to bury your die-hard fan in. NO kidding).
So with so much to spend your money on, yet his advice is to save money...would the merchandise bus be just some giant test?! Too funny, Gene. Too funny. G*d bless ya.
Why only 4 stars? Come'on, nobody's perfect. Even Gene will tell you that.

I Was Made For Bilking You, Baby!
Your financial advise ain't worth a deuce! ... Read more