Book Description

Rap and hip hop, the music and culture rooted in African American urban life, bloomed in the late 1970s on the streets and in the playgrounds of New York City. This critical collection serves as a historical guide to rap and hip hop from its beginnings to the evolution of its many forms and frequent controversies, including violence and misogyny. These wide-ranging essays discuss white crossover, women in rap, gangsta rap, message rap, raunch rap, Latino rap, black nationalism, and other elements of rap and hip hop culture like dance and fashion. An extensive bibliography and pictorial profiles by Ernie Pannicolli enhance this collection that brings together the foremost experts on the pop culture explosion of rap and hip hop. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A rather good book
Very interesting, with opinions that don't always duplicate what the last person said. I really enjoyed some of the essays of this book. It challenges white patriarchal assumptions about Black music, its relevance, and those who are trying to appropriate it for their own financial gain. Tricia Rose's book is also a good one.

A plethora of intellectual and dynamic thoughts on hip hop.
Droppin science is a collection of insightful essays from a variety of intellectuals about the social dynamics and history behind the music now known as hip-hop. Every hip-hop head or any music lover in general could benefit from this insightful collection. From the influences of the island cultures on rap to the history of dance, this book illuminates and expands the present discourse on rap. This is a book I will surely pass onto others in the hip-hop community. ... Read more

Book Description

Follow Christian singer/songwriter Tammy Trent as she tells of her beautiful love story turned tragic, still pointing to God as the source of all life and hope.

Theirs was a fairy-tale romance. Her husband, Trent, was Tammy’s best friend, business manager.Dating for seven years, starting at age 15, and then being married for 11 years, had created a unique bond between these two young people. While vacationing in Jamaica in 2001, a routine free diving excursion in the Blue Lagoon turned drastically tragic when Trent never resurfaced. Unfortunately, the following day’s events of 9/11 would create an incredible obstacle to Tammy’s and her family’s efforts to connect and handle these horrendous events.

She spent eleven days literally trapped in this foreign country while America was in upheaval and filled with uncertainty. Tearful prayers pleading with God to make himself real have been answered, and God is slowly restoring Tammy’s joy and hope, as she begins to sing and dance again for him.

While Tammy has had two #1 and nine top ten radio hits, this powerful book also includes stories and photos of Tammy on the road, a must for any of her fans. Audiences are resonatingwith her message that people are to be cherished and that life is precious, and, no matter what may come, with Christ, we can live a victorious even joyful life.Tammy says, “I’ll be healing the rest of my life, but I’m okay.Yes, I’m gonna be OK because God is helping me learn to breathe again.”

Reviews (1)

Awesome Story and Testimony!
What an awesome story and testimony of how someone can not only survive a tragic loss but also keep a positive outlook on life and encourage others! Tammy Trent is a wonderful singer and speaker, but reading her story makes her that much more inspirational. I can't imagine someone reading this and not being touched by it. It will make you stop and thank God for the people you love - and not take a moment with them forgranted. ... 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

An in-depth, eyewitness account of the creation of one of Bob Dylan's most celebrated, anguished albums, written by the album's guitarist and an acclaimed journalist.

In 1974 Bob Dylan wrote, recorded, reconsidered, and then re-recorded Blood on the Tracks, and to this day, no one who hears it can avoid being blown away by its emotional power. Commonly referred to as "the greatest break-up album of all time," it was written as Dylan's own twelve-year marriage began to painfully unravel. Songs like "Tangled Up in Blue," "Idiot Wind," and "Shelter from the Storm" have become the template for multidimensional, adult songs of love, longing, and loss.

Yet the full story behind the creation of this album has never been told. The authors have drawn upon first-hand information and interviews with the musicians, producers, industry insiders, as well as Dylan's friends, associates, and relatives. A Simple Twist of Fate is an engaging chronicle of how one artist transformed his personal pain and confusion into great art. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Essential for fans of this album.
For those who don't know, Blood on the Tracks was recorded in NYC in late 1974. Dylan then re-recorded 5 of the tracks with local Minnesota musicians and released the album in 1975. It went on to be one of his most successful albums ever. It's a great treat to have one book focus on one classic album. This book goes into every possible detail of the recording of these 10 songs, from who they were written about, how and where they were recorded, to how the musicians were chosen. There is a lot of detail into the actual recording from the musicians who played on both the NY versions and the Minnesota versions which is pretty interesting b/c some of them did not like Dylan's recording process while some of them thrived in the improvisational nature of it. The most interesting piece is hearing how the Minnesota musicians feel 25+ years later about not being credited in the liner notes--some are upset, some are surprised, and some just don't care. This is a terrific book and I can only hope that similar books will be written, focusing specifically on Blonde on Blonde or Bringing it all back home.

BLOOD ON THE TRACKS FACTS
It's a good time to be a BOTT fan. I recently found Mary Lee's Corvette's version of BOTT on CD as well as a bootleg CD of some of the New York sessions songs (which incorrectly listed the studio dates as September 12th, 16th, and 23rd instead of the 16th, 17th, 19th, and 24th and sounded more like demos then anything else). Anyway, imagine my delight at finding this book sitting on the shelf at a local bookstore while browsing in the music section. At first glance at the title, "A Simple Twist Of Fate", I thought that this was just another Dylan biography. Luckily, the subtitle, "Bob Dylan And The Making Of Blood On The Tracks", was also printed on the spine. When I snatched the single copy off the shelf, you'd have thought I'd found the Holy Grail. Not far off the mark for me considering that apart from my March 13, 1975 issue of Rolling Stone (Volume 182), I hadn't read more then a sentence or 2 about BOTT anywhere else. It's about time that some light was shed on the making of this seminal recording. Very informative, long overdue, and a must have for any true BOTT fan. Come read the Blood On The Tracks facts.

Self indulgent
The Dylan gossip and details about the recording sessions are essential for any true Dylanphile, but the authors' analyses of Dylan songs are at best self indulgent and at worst a 9th-graders' pompous research report. Skim it to avoid the weak attempt at literary interpretation.

The whole album should have been recorded in Minneapolis
The New York tracks sound lifeless and insignificant in comparison. The Minneapolis-recorded tunes are crisp and vibrant. Look for the bootlegs of the unreleased Minneapolis tunes to see how this wonderful album could have been even better.

Decent book, by the way. Good info and an entertaining read.

A far deeper inspection of Dylan's relationships
Simple Twist Of Fate isn't just another biography of facts about rock musician Bob Dylan: it's a narrowed focus on the making of his Blood on the Tracks album, a break-up album written as his 12-year marriage unraveled, and it comes packed with insights based on first-hand interviews with musicians and producers, Dylan's friends and associates and relatives, and industry professionals. In using the album as a starting point, Andy Gil's examination provides a far deeper inspection of Dylan's relationships and life than the general biographical sketch could offer. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The myth has always been that Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington shared an identical approach to music. In Lush Life: A Biography of Billy Strayhorn, David Hajdu dismisses that notion from the very beginning. Schooled in Debussy and Ravel, Strayhorn brought a sensitivity and complexity that was missing in the Ellington oeuvre. Although he had talent enough for a career without Ellington, Strayhorn lacked the confidence. Being both black and gay forced him to take a back seat to his partner's celebrity. Denied greater public recognition, he sought solace in a "lush life" of his own, smoking and drinking himself to an early death in 1967. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

very detailed book
i find myself always enjoying Books on People&this is no exception.very well detailed Book on a Important Composer&His Many Demons&Surroundings.I heard a few years back that Will Smith was considering doing the Bio Movie on Billy Strayhorn.it would be really interesting to see how things would come out on the Big screen.this book reflects on Music Talent&whole Life.very well done book.

A very enjoyable read
This book has a lot going for it. Do you like music, swing and jazz? Do you like intersting people? Did you live through the 30's, 40's and 50's? Do you enjoy reading about that era? Do you enjoy reading a well written biogratphy? If the answer to any of these is yes, you'll like this book, it the answer is yes to several of these questions then you'll LOVE this book. David Hajdu has done an exemplary job of documenting the life of Billy Strayhorn. I really felt like I knew the man after reading this. He has done his research and he also writes with a very smooth style that keeps you intersted. I love music and I've read bios of Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, BB King, Chuck Berry, Led Zepplin, Allman Bros. on and on. This is one of the best if not the best music bio I've read.

The World of Ellingtonia
Great Book... if you're an Ellington fan and like "Strays" music this is an absolute must. Very informative and interesting and also great reading. The author was here in Seattle for an Elllngton concert with Earshot Jazz and I met and chatted with him.... a very charming and informed man. cmm

Well Rounded Review
Hajdu really does a nice job of summarizing the life of a songwriter. He keeps his story moving with pacing, characters, travel, and yes, even drama! Racial prejudice, sexual prejudice, loneliness and alcoholism did nothing to stop this little man from Pittsburgh who knew he was destined to a "lush life" and wrote about it in his fantasies, such as the title song begun at age 19 in Pittsburgh.

He grew up poor, effeminate, and misunderstood; but he loved the theater, and he knew where he belonged. Off to New York where his awesome talent so impressed Duke Ellington that he was immediately hired into the organization, where he would thrive and struggle and live and write for the rest of his life. He died of cancer, after penning and arranging much of Ellington's later work.

The book tells his story with panache that would make him proud!

Understated Genius
Billy Strayhorn's contribution to the work of Duke Ellington is immeasurable--at last he is given his full due in David Hajdu's perceptive and insightful portrait of this largely unsung genius of 20th century music. Hajdu's sensitive biography, derived from countless interviews with friends, family and fellow musicians, reveals Strayhorn as a complex, creative individual who preferred to stay discreetly in Ellington's shadow throughout much of his life. It also provides a telling portrait of a man who lived his life as a gay African-American musician completely out in the open during a time in this country when it was both difficult and dangerous to do so. Hajdu has given us telling portraits as well of many of Strayhorn's contemporaries such as Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hodges, Ray Nance and the Duke himself who loved "Swea-Pea" (Strayhorn's nickname) as a part of himself. Not only a portrait of a creative, intellectual genius, "Lush Life" also gives us an insightful look into the world of jazz and African-american popular music that grew out of an age of racism and discrimination. The concluding chapters that chronicle Strayhorn's involvement in the civil rights movement of the early '60's and his friendships with Martin Luther King and Medgar Evans and his own battle with the throat cancer that cut his life short (at age fifty-one) are especially powerful. Throughout the book, Hajdu provides lively anecdotal writing while remaining a respectful journalist and chronicler of his subject. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in jazz history, popular culture, or purely for a portrait of an understated genius. ... Read more

Book Description

This highly anticipated follow-up to Bruce Spizer's critically acclaimed "The Beatles Records on Vee-Jay" contains detailed information on the group's Capitol singles from "I Want To Hold Your Hand" through "Lady Madonna", as well as chapters on Beatlemania in America, how Capitol marketed the Beatles, Capitol's Beatles related singles, the history of Capitol Records, the Capitol Record Club and other fascinating stories. Hard cover with over 500 color photos throughout, including all picture sleeves, label variations, trade advertisements and press kits. Essential and entertaining for both casual fans and serious collectors. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Story of The Beatles US Singles on Capitol!
If you have any interest at all in The Beatles' American issues, this book is the last word on the 45 rpm singles that changed the way music is packaged, marketed, enjoyed and celebrated. Bruce Spizer takes you on a chronological journey from late 1963 to mid 1968 with a detailed account of how and why Capitol Records packaged their Beatles releases for the US market.

There are many people, who are beginning to discover, collect, and appreciate vintage vinyl and The Beatles' issues are undeniably among the primary treasures. However, since the issuance of only the British catalog titles on compact disc, there has not been a resource available to explain the vintage US releases to collectors, let alone dealers. Numerous rumors, counterfeits, bootleg CDs and other pitfalls have been observed in shops, yard-sales, trading floors and auction houses where records can be found, flooding the market with misinformation and ambiguous facts.

This book, and its counterpart, present itemized and detailed information that is practical in style and rich with color illustrations of labels, sleeves, promotional materials and memoranda. For the very first time, in one publication, anyone can see firsthand what made these records so significant and fun! It is a very easy and enjoyable read from cover to cover and it's also broken into useful sections for brief research.

For all the criticisms that have been made about the Capitol releases, much of which has come from The Beatles themselves, these records were the way millions of Americans had initially discovered the "Fab Four" and a certain amount of that magic can be found in the way the music was graphically presented, remixed and issued. This book provides a thorough and highly competent segmental analysis of a cultural phenomenon that still influences generations.

The Beatles Story on Capitol Records, Part One
For those who lived through the first wave of Beatlemania, or those who wish they had, this book provides a vivid look at the most important aspect of America's love for the Fab Four: the records. Spizer's well researched text clarifies the sometimes confusing circumstances that allowed Beatles singles to be released on several different labels before Capitol took over with its marketing muscle. The real treat comes in page after page of color photos of rare picture sleeves, promotional materials, even record club marketing of the Beatles. The book is pricey, but every penny is on the pages-- beautifully done! Even if you've been following the Fabs since February 1964, I'll bet you will learn something new and see something you have never seen before in scores of Beatle books.

Something for every Beatle fan
I had heard that Bruce Spizer's books were full of images of record labels, so I wasn't sure I'd be interested in them. A friend of mine who is a serious collector told me this book was the one to start with. As it turns out, it combines lots of new information with a really great trip down memory lane. While I don't find every version of every label particularly interesting, there's a lot in this book that's REALLY great! The opening section on Beatlemania in America is an excellent overview of the subject. The chapters on each of the 45s include great images of picture sleeves and vintage Billboard ads; and Spizer describes in fascinating detail how the songs were written and recorded. It's hard to believe, but Capitol originally intended for "Act Naturally" to be the A side over "Yesterday." This was because in the early days of Beatlemania, Ringo was the most popular Beatle. (I preferred Paul.) This is just one of the great factoids that Spizer writes about and then illustrates - this one with images of Ringo on covers of a comic book and MAD magazine. The last section details how Capitol Records came to be and how the company creatively used merchandising and promotion to sell records (hard to believe the Beatles needed help!) - again, lots of pictures, e.g., actual press kits, etc. Although I skipped over some of the technical information, it's a great reference book besides being a fun read. The information is new, the stories are fascinating and the pictures really help tell the story. This book was completely worth the price - now I'm saving to buy his other ones!

who is this book for?
These reviews are very misleading... they led me to purchase this book! Once I got a copy I was beyond disappointed: this book is an extensive collection of record labels. Little more. I mean, who is this for? People who are interested in how 45s got labeled (or often mislabeled) in the 60s? When is says "Beatles story ON capitol records", it means literally.

AN AMAZING JOURNEY BACK INTO BEATLEMANIA - PART 1
This was the first Bruce Spizer book that I had bought. It is an amazingly enjoybale piece of work to behold. The thoroughness of the man is never in question and the quality of the book puts many others to shame. The label reproductions are wonderful and helpful if you've bought the original US singles. I've since determined that I've probably picked up a couple of fake Beatles 45's along with the bunch of many originals that I acquired a few years back. Buyer beware but that's luck of the draw I suppose and I'll have to search out original equivalents of those forgeries. This book serves so many useful purposes apart from being entertaining and authorative. Now experienced and would-be collectors can purchase originals better educated than before. Overall the quality is superb and Mr. Spizer's books sit in the same class as those of Mark Lewisohn's "Complete Beatles Chronicle" & "Abbey Road" books as well as the massive "Beatles Anthology" tome. While each part stands alone quite well you must buy Part 2 to complete the set as they complemment each other beautifully. I thoroughly recommend these books to any Beatles fan and lovers of Rock Music books. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A day-by-day journal from the journals of the ever-volatileHenry Rollins on tour from 1981 to 1986 that captures the irrationality and violence of punk specifically, and the stresses of being on the road in a rock band generally. ... Read more

Reviews (40)

amazing portrayal of life on the road, dev. of an artist
Rollins' anecdotes of life on the road with Black Flag and back in "The Shed" are fascinating, but for me the most fascinating parts of Get in the Van are about Rollins' thought development and epiphanies that lead to his convictions about his artistic direction. It is fascinating to compare the "form" of Get in the Van, which is pretty much the memoir, to the form(s) of song lyrics; since Rollins is a poet/lyricist, the relations between raw notebook entries, memoirs, poems and song lyrics are intriguing. Another interesting aspect of Get in the Van is R's continuing struggle to articulate who he is in relation to other people--audience and band members, society, etc., and especially how he tried to deal with his ambivalence toward people. On another level, the book is about survival (Rollins' and others')and death (esp. his struggle to come to terms with the death of a good friend, who incidentally encouraged Rollins to begin keeping records of his life with Black Flag in the first place). The book also has a heavy amount of commentary on the state of America in the late 20th Century--where the creative vibrancy is, where the stagnant zombie gunk is--esp. as refracted through the eyes of someone living the hard core punk life. In the back of the book, Rollins includes a statement to the reader about what can/should be done to live a creative and courageous life, which for me dispels any doomsday soothsayers' assertions that the future looks bleak for anyone in America who aspires to be a creative artist.

Good stuff... for a guy who can't write.
If you haven't read the book yet, let me lay your suspicions to rest... Henry Rollins is indeed illiterate. But! That fact does nothing to repress the raw energy bursting from every page of this book. This is the stuff. True accounts from the front lines. The first two chapters are basically just Rollins telling stories from Black Flag. The rest of the book is journal entries, and my only complaint is that Henry comes off as retarded when he tries to play the hardcore intellectual. This book is excellent as an anthropological record, not as a literary feat. It's a coffee table book for degenerates. (Man is there a lot of good juicy violence in here! Rollins gets his ( ) kicked like 500 times!) Good stuff.

Rollins best work
This is Henry's diaries from his tours with Black Flag. It follows him across the world through struggles with bandmates, fans and promoters. This is a great read and can't help but to motivate.

Thoroughly Enjoyable Read(3 1/2 Stars)
Whether you are a Black Flag fan or not is pretty much inconsequential. "Get in the Van", Henry Rollins' journals from back in the Black Flag days is a realy interesting look at the band and a time in American music.
Rollins may not be a poet, but his writting style reflects well upon the experinces he was going through at the time. If you were living in a van two hundred days a year, playing shows every night, I really doubt that you would write eloquent passages either.
This book is also an easy read and is full of really cool photos that are fun to look at even if you don't really care about Rollins writting.
Overall, "Get in the Van" is worth buying if your a fan of punk rock and this period of it.

Thoughts from inside the mind of a tortured soul
I've read this thing about 3 times now, it never gets old. To tell you the truth, I didn't really dig punk rock when it was happening (whether it was East Coast or Euro). I kind of don't dig it now. I am, however, a musician and have spent some time on the road. Nothing like Rollins!! This guy had it bad! Full of wit and somber moments, this is a roller coaster ride. The interesting thing to note is that Henry lived the most jaded life and managed to articulate it perfectly so that you could hear the roar, smell the sweat and feel the pain. Even if you don't like the music that he makes, this book is more than entertaining to read, it is an experience! ... Read more

Book Description

Cream became the first British band to break open the lucrative US market and here you can join them on the road, day by relentlessly hedonistic day as they write the rule book of rock decadence and cemented Eric Clapton's reputation as the most exciting blues-based guitarist in the world. A brilliant combination of skilful instrumental virtuosity, great bluesy songwriting and a lifestyle which top rock writer Dave Thompson turns into one of the most readable rock biographies ever. ... Read more

Book Description

In a career that spanned five decades and encompassed stardom in every medium, Judy Garland's professional achievements remain unsurpassed. Now her timeless joy comes alive in JUDY GARLAND: A PORTRAIT IN ART & ANECDOTE. Hundreds of rare and previously unpublished photographs, studio memorabilia, and personal mementos from the family archives, along with scores of anecdotes drawn from interviews with her professional colleagues, friends, family, and Judy herself, showcase her on- and off-stage "talent to amuse." Decade by decade, her incomparable accomplishments on stage, film, television, radio, and recordings are lovingly illustrated and remembered by those who knew her best. Often funny, sometimes poignant, but always fascinating, this book singularly conveys the happiness that Garland's own great and buoyantly emotional performances have brought to hundreds of millions of admirers. Anyone who ever enjoyed a Garland song will revel in this glowing, lavishly illustrated tribute. ... Read more

Reviews (37)

More than just a legend...
This is the greatest new book on Judy Garland. It includes many new photographs and images never seen before. The format of the book shows Judy as performer through the decades of her life as well as showing her as the devoted mother of her three children. For those of us who grew up watching Judy on television (other than her movies), it is fascinating to see the candid shots and the behind the scenes' photos. This book is a tribute to Judy, not only as a legend, but also as a mother. Judy Garland would be very proud of this collaboration of John Fricke and Lorna Luft. I cannot think of two people more qualified or devoted to the memory of Judy Garland to present such a fascinating study of a mother and a superstar that we lost too early.

C'mon Get Happy
John Fricke has really outdone himself! I got this book for a Christmas present and since then have become a HUGE Garland fan. This is a great book for any Judy fan or anyone who is interested in learning more about her. It doesnt go way into her life and talk about one subject for 10 pages. It shows you a more personal side of Judy Garland, coming from those who loved her the most. There are alot of good stories, many told by Margret Whiting,the false teeth story is funny. There are quotes on what people thought of her as a entertainer and as a person. Not only are there great stories and quotes there are magnificent pictures. Pictures you cant find anywhere else. There are some great candids of Judy just throwing her head back in laughter. Very nice concert shots, that just give us a glimpse of her fabulous energy. There are even a few unretouched photos as well. Then there are the pictures of her with her kids, you can just see the love shining in her eyes. The last 10 pages of pictures and quotes are so powerful that I at least have to mention two of the pictures. The one of her rose covered coffin being carried down some street in New York, the reporters, the tons of fans that all lost some one, not just a celebrity but some one they thought of as a friend. Then there is the very last page of the entire book, an audience applauding and Judy getting ready to take a bow. Very powerful last page. This book isnt pne that is going to sit on your bookshelf and collect dust. But it is one that will be sitting on your coffe table. The one you look at almost everyday and never get tired of.

Gushy
When I picked up this book at the library, the librarian said to me, "You've got the heaviest book in the library."

I replied, "It may be heavy in weight, but it won't be heavy reading." And indeed it was not. The only reason to look at this book is for the pictures, many of which I've not seen elsewhere.

The text, however, is gush, gush, gush. The author repeats himself ad nauseum and quotes only people who haven't a single word to say against the great, the fabulous, the one and only legend! It gets tiresome. Yes, Judy Garland was a great talent, but how many times do we have to hear it?

Completely won over???? You will be..
This book is magic. I really felt once i had finished the book..I read it from start to finish in one sitting..that Judy Garland was clapping at the end and giving me an impish grin because I had followed her all her life.
The photos speak for themselves - the beautiful glamour shots, the fat ones, the thin ones, the ones of Judy singing, throwing her head back and laughing, reaching out to people, crying (but not really)the close ups of her and her freckles and puffy eyes..toto, Lorna, Joey, Liza.. Ranse Ranson..whoever you are, you did a wonderful job. A beautiful presentation.

The text summarises each decade of Judy's life and career so don't expect too much indepth analysis here. But everything is accurate to my knowledge, and Judy's sense of humour and the ironical come across loud and clear. Some may find it a bit too gushy..but come on..this is written by a huge fan so as well as historian John Fricke so what do you expect? Tabloid trash?

The quotes are fitting but I wish there were more from the entertainment world that I knew and still alive..like Elizabeth Taylor, Mickey Rooney, Liza Minelli..I mean she could say something new it's not like one had to be close to Judy have insight to her. Fricke didn't have to rehash old quotes..but it's nice to have them anyway. Even those who were extremely close to Judy sometimes could not understand her. I mean those arrangers couldn't understand why Judy never vocalised before a concert! Hello! She was saving her voice!!! She wasn't an opera singer!

Most of the quotes are gushy (like she is the greatest..etc)..and some make you mad, because they're just people's biased opinions, and some are truly lovely and what Judy would have liked to hear and read.

Lorna contributed to the foreword and it's lovely to have Judy Garland's daughter's perspective. It does remind you that Judy was a human being not a mythological legend and that she left living legacies in her children. Joey too is quoted, however he is a quiet man and does not like to speak much about his ma and I respect that. What would be interesting is when everyone is prepared to speak out about Judy once past wounds have been healed. quotes from David Rose, Sid Luft, mark herron and Mickey Deans are noticeably absent. Sid Luft is still living but he is not prepared to open the past..although he has collaborated with one Judy biography that shall be nameless. So don;t go looking for Judy's personal love life here! Her love was with her audience, and it shows. Also I think this book will contribute to vindicating Judy from some misinterpretations of her worth as a person and entertainer.

Be warned, it gets sad towards the end....

This is a fascinating book,even if you buy it for the pictures alone..it's worth the money!!!!! It will become a collectors item I think and will give pleasure for generations to come. Keep it for the treasury.

Brilliant
I read all the other reviews posted here prior to purchasing this book, and was curious as to how I would respond to this book. I have read everything that has been written or done on Garland, and this far outshines all the others. This is not a tired rehashing of the same old stories. It is a loving tribute that allows Garland's genius to shine through. My partner has always patiently tolerated my love of Judy--after looking through this book, he said that he finally could see what the hubbub is all about. Now THAT's an achievement. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Don't believe everything you read :)
Just scanning the synopsis of this book is quite distressful. I am hoping that the book does not say something as completely wrong as "his sudden deafness at age 26." That is completely false. I am not sure about this book, but I would highly recommend Maynard Solomon's "Beethoven" It is a careful and thoughtful analysis of the man and the musician.

excellent
This is a great book about a great man, Ludwig van Beethoven. Each page has many fine photographs; most in color. It is a very well-written book which will not disappoint. In addition, the quality and feel of the paper is tops. It is nice to have color portraits of people such as Beethoven's grandfather and other members of his family, as well as Antonio Salieri, Haydn, Kreutzer, Clementi, and many of his benefactors and other personal friends, not to mention street scenes, scenes of Beethoven playing the piano as a mesmerized audience looks on, scenes of Fidelio, etc. No one who buys this book can be bored by it or have buyer's remorse.

The reader is transported back to the the late 18th and early 19th century. One thing I liked was finding out what Beethoven was doing at the precise time he wrote a certain work. In the book, Ferdinand Ries (a friend and composer) points out that Beethoven had been humming out loud during a walk in the woods. When he returned, he put to paper the 3rd movement of the famous Appassionata sonata.

This book gets an A plus. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Anthologies of jazz writing tend to be mixed bags, combining reviews, profiles, and usually a couple of short stories in which the protagonist happens to play the tenor saxophone. This collection from former New Yorker editor Robert Gottlieb is indeed such a miscellany, but it has been assembled with rare taste and discrimination. The emphasis on autobiographical writing is particularly welcome, reminding us that, in prose as in jazz, voice is the ultimate artistic thumbprint. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Note on the Editor
Robert Gottlieb is indeed up to the job of editing this anthology.The information about him provided on the book is incomplete--necessarily incomplete, because Gottlieb has one of the longest and most distinguished editing careers in American letters.He was head of a publishing house and editor-in-chief of "The New Yorker."He is responsible for some of the best writing of the last quarter century.

Chock full o' stories!
This book collects a vast range of articles, reviews and biographies covering jazz's most influential musicians.It's a wonderful compendium.I discovered great music from many artists I'd never heard of before.Well worth reading!

Not What I Hoped It Would Be
This is a disappointing book. The Autobiography section is rather good, but the other two-thirds is really quite inadequate. A great many articles by "moldy figs" are included, and one reaches the conclusion that the editor himself is something of a moldy fig. He admits in the introduction that he "came to jazz late in life," and his previous publications are listed as having edited collections of Rudyard Kipling and John Cheever and authored a study of "The Art of the Plastic Handbag 1949 - 1959." Editing a volume on jazz seems to have proven a little beyond his capacity. After the Autobiography section, it's rather good on the 20s and 30s, so-so on the 40s and 50s, and quite lame on anything that has occurred in the past 40 years. There are some gems among the selections, but not enough of them. Incidentally, the astonishing omission of an index is really unforgivable. If you're looking for more up-to-date and more substantive jazz criticism, with more musical analysis, might I recommend a subscription to the quarterly magazine Jazz Improv (which I'm not associated with) whose issues include excerpts from books of jazz criticism of a much higher standard than the selections in this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Silence, A Year from Monday, M, Empty Words and X (in this order) form the five parts of a series of books in which Cage tries, as he says,to find a way of writing which comes from ideas, is not about them, but which produces them. Often these writings include mesostics and essays created by subjecting the work of other writers to chance procedures using the I Ching (what Cage called writing through). ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Essential
Not just for musicians, but for anybody who is interested in music or philosophy. Cage's ideas presented in the work are fascinating in and of themselves, but even the manner in which he physically notates his thoughts on paper is amazing to see.

There's a common argument that his ideas (and this book) are overrated. I find this difficult to digest, especially when one considers the enormous impact Cage's writings and compositions have had on countless composers (basically anyone composing after 1950 has most likely taken a thing or two from the ideas in this book).

Sometimes he can be a little tough to follow in the book, as properly constructed sentences are not high up on Cage's list of priorities. However, this book has so much to offer that it is worth wading through the occasional slow spot.

So give it a whirl. Even if you don't like Cage's music, reading this book will give you insights into what he did that may change your mind or at least instill a newfound respect. At its best, this is inspiration of the highest sort.

Quintessential Cage
I keep reading it year after year and I keep finding sections of it I've never seen before. magic. A the same time, I read the same part overs and over again years later and they just get better.

It's just a remarkable text.

You have to get it.

This book is slightly overrated, actually
There is no denying the importance of John Cage as a composer as well as a writer. But even though this book is a necessary provocation for anyone who thinks they know what music is and should be, he is not a philosopher, and his ideas are often contradictory, naive and even romantic.

Romantic? Yes, I would say that for instance his idea of "sounds in themselves" and "nature" are romantic. Can we really eliminate all cultural impact and distortion just by refusing intention? I think not. Sounds are always inflected by history.

Still, I would not want a world without the challenge of his extreme stance.

Nothing Has Been The Same
It's always a strange sensation for me to go into a record store, or even see what's available here, and find so many John Cage recordings in print. As the most essential and avant-garde composer of the century, that's gratifying to me [a composer] but also unnerving that anyone so experimental and uncompromising in the arts would enjoy such popularity.

This book goes a long way towards explaining that. And in many ways, this book stands apart from his music, and can be enjoyed without ever hearing or knowing of Cage's music pieces. Because the music was almost by accident - Schoenberg told Cage that he was an inventor, not a composer, and this book demonstrates that, and goes further to show Cage was a philosopher. Music just happened to be the medium where he best expressed his philosophy, but it could have been painting or film, depending on his path. The book defines a way of living and thinking and seeing, and of course hearing, the world. That's what it's about. And it's beautiful and gentle quality capture the essence of Cage, a true quiet revolutionary. His revolution was profound, and best expressed in his piano piece 4'33", where the pianist does not make a sound at the instrument. The revolution of that event was the most profound and destabilizing in the history of music, and yet it was entirely silent. Such is the power of Cage's ideas that he has no need to really 'lecture' about them, he merely presents them and let's their own strength do the rest.

to whom it may concern
'I have nothing to say and I am saying it', wrote John Cage in his Lecture On Nothing, included in Silence. This collection of Cage's lectures and writings, which spans the two decades before its sixties publication, is perhaps his most important. ... Read more

Book Description

An intimate biography of the great songwriter, this is also a deeply affectionate memoir by one of Johnny Mercer's best friends.

"Moon River," "Laura," "Skylark," "That Old Black Magic," "One for My Baby," "Accentuate the Positive," "Satin Doll," "Days of Wine and Roses," "Something's Gotta Give"--the honor roll of Mercer's songs is endless. Both Oscar Hammerstein II and Alan Jay Lerner called him the greatest lyricist in the English language, and he was perhaps the best-loved and certainly the best-known songwriter of his generation. But Mercer was also a complicated and private man.

A scion of an important Savannah family that had lost its fortune, he became a successful Hollywood songwriter (his primary partners included Harold Arlen and Jerome Kern), a hit recording artist, and, as co-founder of Capitol Records, a successful businessman, but he remained forever nostalgic for his idealized childhood (with his "huckleberry friend"). A gentleman, a nasty drunk, funny, tender, melancholic, tormented--Mercer was a man immensely talented yet plagued by
self-doubt, much admired and loved but never really understood.

In music historian and songwriter Gene Lees, Mercer has his perfect biographer, who deals tactfully but directly with Mercer's complicated relationships with his domineering mother; his tormenting wife, Ginger; and Judy Garland, who was the great love of his life. Lees's highly personal examination of Mercer's life is sensitive as only the work of a friend of many years could be to the conflicts in Mercer's nature.And it is filled with insights into Mercer's work that could come only from a fellow lyricist (whose own lyrics were much admired by Mercer).

A poignant, candid, revelatory portrait of Johnny. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Darkest Hour
Being a long-time admirer of Mr. Rollins since his Black Flag days, I was compelled to look into some of his work other than music, which leads me to reading this book.

"See a Grown Man Cry/Now Watch Him Die" encompasses Henry's personal reflections of his life and touring throughout the 1988-1992 period. Mr. Rollins' book is comprised of writings taken from his personal journal and poems that he wrote during one of the darkest periods of his life, including witnessing the murder of his best friend, Joe Cole. Reading the first half of this book, his poems, leaves the reader with a taste of Henry's lonely and depressed feeling of obscurity. His poems not only reflect the dark side of his life, but also the tender and vunerable side that often causes him pain. . . one would think that Henry's often suicidal view is a cry for help. But in reality, he choses to hang on as shown by his defiant attitude towards life. The second half, comprised mostly of journal entries while touring, reflects the often angry Henry who wants nothing more than to spit in your face and to be left alone. At the same time, he wants everyone to know who he is and where he's coming from, yet needs the loneliness of his existence--one can only feel that Henry's expressions are nothing more than a contradiction: he desires success and fame, but agonizes over what comes with the territory of being famous (having fan recognition and having to do interviews).

The book is a true, sometimes brutal account of Henry's life and what he has endure during this dark and depressing time. I can appreciate his straight forwardness, honesty and defiant attitude towards life because we all share a painful period in our lives; some more than others. At the same time, I feel that while he deserves success, he does not necessarily deserve total kudos for his achievements, although I shall continue to respect his work.

Overall, I would still recommend it to fans of Henry Rollins. WARNING: Do not read this book if you're expecting a happy ending.

His seminal work?
I've read much of Henry Rollins' work, but 'See a Grown Man Cry' is the one book I keep picking up on a regular basis, as evidenced by my completely tattered copy. It is a completely engaging text. The emotion is so very true and real, reading this book one feels like they are inside of Henry's mind, feeling his emotions. Anytime I recommend his work to someone, I recommend 'See a Grown Man Cry' and then 'Now Watch Him Die'.

Honest Writing
There is so much farcity in the world today that it's so good to come across a writer like Henry who's willing to show everyone what he thinks, how he feels, what his life is like and how he perceives the world around him.

This book is very brutal and honest, which I think always makes for good writing. He has a very clear perception of the people around him and how they think, which lets him view the world from all sides including his own. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to open their eyes to someone else's reality.

The world's most powerful book
7 years ago, a friend of mine read me a poem from "Now Watch Him Die" (They were seperate books back then). It's the one on page 164 of this volume, the one that starts with "I love you and you'll never know." Since then, I have not gone anywhere without a copy of these books close at hand. They are an all-encompassing chronicle of one man's solipsism, isolation, desperation and depression. This may not sound fascinating, but that man happens to be Henry Rollins, who has a talent for intensity and a command of words rivaled by no one of this era. Not since Bukowski has someone used so little to say so much. If you are ready for a descent into a maelstrom of anger, violence and pure, blinding pain, then this is the book for you. If you're looking for something sappy, sweet and redemptive, then try Oprah's Book Club instead.

An excellent albeit depressing work
I bought this book on a whim one day from a local bookstore and wasn't able to put it down. It's a brutally honest rendition of a life filled with tragedy, depression, doubt and one unsuccesful relationship after another. It's one of the more depressing books I've read, but I pick it up even when I'm feeling down. The intense emotion is almost palpable, you'll feel every bit of rage, heart-ache and frustration, loneliness and confusion. See a Grown Man Cry is worth every penny you pay, every minute you read and every pang of grief you feel for the suffering Mr. Rollins. If you ever by a book by Henry Rollins it should be this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Perhaps the most important Mozart biography ever written, this book is subtle, rich-textured, endlessly stimulating and provocative -- just like the man's music. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

A compelling look at a life of creativity and of pain
It's hard to fathom the sheer genius that was Mozart, a musician and composer capable of playing and writing music that will never be forgotten. This book goes a long way to helping to understand a complex and talented man whod ied at a young age but left such an astounding legacy. The difficult relationship with his father, his loving relationship with his mother and sister, his breakaway to Vienna, his marriage, all receive attention in this masterful volume. The Freudian jargon does detract at times from the story (and occasionally mystifies the reader with odd sentences and abstractions that seem meant for psychotherapists to argue about: was his use of an occasional nickname for himself of "Adam" in place of "Amadeus" really another way for him to see himself reborn with his mother as Eve??...well, I don't know or care, really). Solomon's extensive attention to Mozart's relationship with his father does have a nice way of bringing the story all together. Leopold comes across as nearly insane, a man who never comes to accept his son's obvious genius, pushing his son to consider lowly postings in Strasbourg in deference to his family, rather than go to Vienna to assume his place among the musical elite of Europe. Mozart's split with his father and sister comes through brilliantly. The reader can share his pain and ambivalence in moving to Vienna, knowing that his art and talent demanded it but suffering as a result. I have not read other Mozart biographies, but I am hard-pressed to imagine what I may be missing. This is a masterly and fascinating look at one of the millenium's most prodigious talents.

Still the best Mozart biography I have found
An enjoyable read but not without some rather large flaws. Much easier to digest than Guttman's biography of Mozart in this regard. Certainly a readable and sometimes exciting chronology of Mozart's life. One gets a feeling of what Mozarts life was like but something in Solomon's psychological and cultural portraint seems to be missing. When I was finished I was left with as many questions about the life and times of Mozart as I had when I begun.

A very dissapointing discussion of Mozarts works, in fact there is no systemic evaluation on his output. Nothing on the piano concertos, chamber music, symphonies, or operas. Instead we are left with a few chapters superimposed into the text (Solomon admits they where used earlier as lecture material) that try to relate some adagio and concerti to outdated and apsychological theories of aesthetics. One should refer to Swafford's biograpy of Brahms as a model for an integrated discussion of a composers life and works.

Most annoying of all is Solomons incessant need to Psychoanalyze. More time is spent trying to pigeonhole Mozart's relation with his father into a Freudian model than is discussing the musical culture of Viena, or for that matter Mozarts sources of creativity. Dare I say, most of Solomons charachter analysis amounts to little more than psychobabble. This takes special crecedence when one considers how dubous and now abandoned Freudian theory is today in general.

Mostly Mozart
I was looking forward to reading Maynard Solomon's biography of Mozart, since I've wanted to know more about him, especially after reading and seeing "Amadeus". I know Shaffer's play is largely based on speculation, and I wanted some facts. Since this biography was generally well reviewed and praised, I believed I would be of the same opinion. However, Solomon has taken perhaps the most outrageous character of classical music and placed him in the most tame and boring of tales.

Solomon's biography is thoroughly researched. He is profoundly adept at analyzing Mozart's music and the various shifts as the composer searches for his own unique style. Even if you are not familiar with the pieces mentioned, you can still recognize the genius of the notes on the page, provided for you. And even his analyses of Mozart's character, although mere speculation, are well-written and thought-provoking.

However, Solomon spends too much time on the seemingly insignificant. Yes, Mozart's relationship with his father is important in the course of Mozart's development, but do we really need the speculation as to what Leopold Mozart "may have earned" on their musical travels? Too often Solomon's research reads like a laundry list of gifts, events, and musical compositions. The reader hardly knows what to make of Mozart by the end of this biography; since Solomon himself never presents this mythic character in a clear light. Upon finishing, I felt I had learned more about Mozart's father than I had about the composer himself. In wanting to give us the entire "life" story of Mozart, he ironically gives us a biography that is lacking exactly that - life.

Excellent
This is a wonderful biography of the great musician. It really dispelles all the false truths and paints Mozart as a living breathing person. There is quite a bit of phycho anaylses some of it was a bit boring but I really enjoyed the anaylises of his relationship with his father. It is a little heavy at times but most of the time reads like a good novel. Wonderful.

should be Mozart ¿ A Psychoanalysis
This book should be titled "Mozart - A Psychoanalysis"

The book has some strong points - a good analysis of musical style with many examples (if you can't play them on a piano at least tap out the rhythms to get an idea of what he was trying to do) and details about Mozart's dirty letters and fondness for writing backwards. He also makes a good case for Mozart having good earnings. Some of these things are probably difficult to find elsewhere.

However it leaves out some extraordinary things, including Mozart's attitude toward Salieri - and vice-versa, meeting Voltaire and Beethoven, and much of the political climate.

The author drones on with page after page of psychobabble that serves to over-exhaust both the subject and the reader. For example, the following run-on sentence (one of many in the book) occurs five (!) pages into a continuous set of statements about musical imagery:

"An argument can be made, however, that in the last analysis we bring to the entire continuum of such (anxious mental) states derivatives of feelings having their origin in early stages of our lives, and in particular the preverbal state of symbiotic fusion of infant and mother, a matrix that constitutes an infancy-Eden of unsurpassable beauty but also a state completely vulnerable to terrors of separation, loss, and even fears of potential annihilation, a state that inevitably terminates in parting, which even under the most favorable circumstances leaves a residue of grief and melancholy, engendering a desire - wrapped in the likelihood of further disillusionment - to rediscover anew the sensations of undifferentiated fusion with a nurturing caretaker."

That was just ONE sentence! The author then appears to summarize the argument, at which point the reader emits a sigh of relief then turns the page: only to be confronted by two more pages of psychology before the author then spends several more pages applying the argument to several musical works.

The reader gets treated to several whole chapters of analysis of Mozart's emotional mind, emotional relationships with relatives, physical attributes - and what emotions they cause. There is a WHOLE chapter devoted to the fact that Mozart temporarily altered his middle name to "Adam" when he signed his marriage documents! I'm not kidding. The Chapter is entitled, "Adam" and it analyzes the emotional states that caused Mozart to change Amade(us) to Adam. Then, when the reader finally arrives at a chapter that actually describes historical events in Mozart's life (and their emotions), the events are often not played out in chronological order.

The names of Mozart's major works are most often NEVER written in English and the author often uses German, French, or Italian to make major points without bothering to let the reader in on the English translation: Mozart said of his pet starling "Das war schon." The motto of some riddlers was "Honi soit qui mal y pense." It's frustrating not knowing what those sentences mean in English.

I faithfully read the first 344 pages of this book then could no longer bear it - I skimmed the rest, then started reading Gutman's "Mozart - a cultural biography" which appears to present Mozart more idealistically than was the case, but at least I'm getting a feel for what was happening around Mozart during his lifetime.

I hope I wasn't too emotional. ... Read more

Book Description

In his life and in his music, Cole Porter was "the top"--the pinnacle of wit, sophistication, and success. His songs--"I Get a Kick Out of You," "Anything Goes," and hundreds more--were instant pop hits, and their musical and emotional depths have made them lasting standards.

William McBrien has captured the creator of these songs, whose life was not merely one of wealth and privilege. A prodigal young man, Porter found his emotional anchor in a long, loving, if sexless marriage, a relationship he repeatedly risked with a string of affairs with men. His last eighteen years were marked by physical agony but also unstinting artistic achievement, including the great Hollywood musicals High Society, Silk Stockings, and Kiss Me Kate (recently and very successfully revived on Broadway). Here, at last is a life that informs the great music and lyrics through illuminating glimpses of the hidden, complicated, private man.




... Read more

Reviews (9)

A Memorable Biography of a Brilliant Artist
Cole Porter (1891-1964) determinedly created the image of an extremely wealthy man who traveled the world, played with the rich and famous, and now and then wrote a Broadway show or two for the pure pleasure of it. But although he was in some respects a shallow man who lived largely for personal pleasure, he was also a very driven and complex one, a man whose fame on the stage did not come easily and who faced a series of horrific hurdles in his private life.

Porter risked his grandfather's ire--and the family fortune he controlled--by settling on a career in music, and while he earned early fame at Yale through his compositions, his first Broadway venture, See America First, was a humiliating fiasco. Homosexual in an era when it was flatly unacceptable, he would marry to retain respectability and forge a remarkable emotional (if completely platonic) relationship with wife Linda Lee Thomas--even while conducting a series of same-sex affairs that would prove frustratingly superficial. Near the height of his career, a horseback riding accident would leave him crippled and in physical agony for the rest of his life, and the pressures of pain and keeping up appearances would plunge him into fits of depression that seemed to border on the psychotic.

Biographer William McBrien is meticulous in his research and his recreation of Porter's very high society, and in other hands such a weight of knowledge might plunge a book into absolute impenetrability--but although McBrien sometimes errs by flooding the reader with inconsequential detail, by and large he keeps a fine balance on his very difficult subject, tracing the arc of Porter's life from Indiana to Yale to New York to Europe to Hollywood, tracing the arc of his career from the humiliating fiasco of Porter's first Broadway show "See America First" to the brilliance of such successes as "Anything Goes" and "Kiss Me Kate."

In the process McBrien not only seems to capture Porter, but an entire era as well--a world of sharp sophistication when terms like "star" and "toast of two continents" and "gentlemen" still had meaning, when the "have-nots" danced to the tempo of the "haves" and the wealthy went slumming for a thrill. Filled with numerous photographs and large chunks of Porter's memorable lyrics, this is one biography that truly does its subject justice.

GFT, Amazon Reviewer

READ IT!
WILLIAM McBRIEN has done it;he has given all the PORTER fans of this world the biography they were waiting for for thirty-four years.What this book gives us is an accurate account of the composer's life including his well known homosexuality, even if he married for respectability.PORTER's early years were quite different when compare with the other composers of his generation;he had a millionnaire grandfather and a rather aloof father with whom he didn't really communicate.He led a rather easy going life until he finally decided at the age of 37 to let his talent bloom on BROADWAY.There is considerable irony to the fact that from his riding accident in 1937,that man who had everything suffered a great deal until his death in 1964.You end up knowing what was this thing called love.

A Ride Down Memory Lane
I was more curious about Cole Porter's life because I, too, am in love with the lyrics and music he created. Songs like ANYTHING GOES, YOU'RE THE TOP, I LOVE PARIS to name a few are classics to no end. I like a book that takes me back in time, but I'd prefer a good story. I was a bit disappointed how the book became too informational with naming of who's who and who did what vs. a classic story. There are definitely stories behind the stories that would be much more interesting...so, I suppose we have to use our imagination. This book is a great resource to anyone studying about Cole Porter. I had no idea about his horse accident which really put a damper on his lifestyle. He was quite the world traveler in the 20s & 30s which is quite an accomplishment in those days. He definitely had a way with words...but if you read this...complement it with a CD of the COLE PORTER Songbook. It took me a while to get through this because it IS a book that you can put down & keep on your coffee table for a long time (before you pick it up again).

Audiotape
I have been listening to the audiotape and find it surprising that the book is so highly rated by other reviewers. The tape starts out with a reading of what I assume is the introduction to the book--droning on and on and on and on about the different people who assisted with the research. (My mother-in-law apparently couldn't get past the intro--she returned the tape to me saying that she had expected something different but that she guessed he had to thank all those people.) I did eventually find the fast forward button which is truly a wonderful invention.

I am wondering why they decided to issue an unabridged tape. The book includes long descriptions of dead and forgotten people, many of whom had only obscure connections with Porter. It also includes a plethora of incomprehensible French phrases which I found somewhat obnoxious and believe could easily have been replaced with English equivalents. I imagine the author was trying to set a tone consistent with Porter's lifestyle but I think it was a bad idea. (FYI I am not a total ignoramus when it comes to foreign languages--I am fluent in both German and Spanish, and took Greek in high school.)

Thus far the only information I have found that seems worthy of note is the fact that the lifestyle depicted in the Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers movies might have been lifted directly out of Cole Porter's life. I always thought it was exaggerated.

But for the wonderful words and music that he wrote, I would have absolutely no interest in the man. I am now in the middle of the 4th tape and think it is likely I will return the tapes to the library without finishing the book, without the slightest regret. If I happen to see the book on the library shelf, I might look at it to see whether it is better in print than on tape.

An interesting biography of Cole Porter
After finally realizing that many of my favorite songs through the years were written by one man, namely Cole Porter, I searched for a biography and found this one. I had recently finished a biography of Gershwin and thoroughly enjoyed it. Comparing the two men was inevitable. They both composed a tremendous amount of music and were very disciplined when it came to their craft. There the similarity ended. Gershwin was always pushing his limits and developing as a composer. Cole Porter pretty much settled for being a tunesmith- a very clever and witty one, though. Gershwin was always working and learning. Porter was always partying - booze, drugs, and sex. It is amazing that he was able to stand up, nevermind sit down for several hours at the piano everyday to compose, no matter what his activities of the night before. While Gerhswin's life reveals a composer striving for ever increasing greatness, Porter's life is pretty superficial and shallow - consisting of one party after another with the "beautiful people". It was a bit of a shock to see that his life was as shallow and mindless as it was and wouldn't add up to much of anything if it were not for his incredible talent. Wealthy beyond most of our dreams, he seems to have been oblivious and/or indifferent to the Depression and the great World War - my guess is that he probably saw them as little more than pesty distractions from his round of parties. With Gershwin, you admire his talent, his discipline, his striving, his willingness to take musical risks after he had become wealthy. With Cole Porter - well, there is always his talent. ... Read more