Composers Books

Maxine Brown has created a masterpiece about the history, and characters involved in the making of Country Music. Her story is honest and heartbreaking at times. She has bumped into just about everyone who has had anything to do with the industry. She's smart, funny, honest and in some cases, unforgiving of those that have crossed her in the business. And, rightly so. Just the insight into the beginning career of Elvis Presley is worth the read. She toured with this shy kid who would become king. She gave us a glimpse into what it was like to know him before all the fame. This woman had guts to stick it out in a business that could be very unkind to women in the early days. Her determination to carve herself out a place in the business of country music is witness to her drive. The Browns hold a very important place in the history of Country Music. They influenced an entire generation, and let us not forget, were one of the first crossover sensations. Not only did they create a fire here in the States, they took on Europe with huge success as well. They lived through the rough and tumble days in Nashville when a chosen few could make or break a career. There were also good guys, like Chet Atkins who believed in the Browns, and stood up to the big studio execs to ensure that their records were made with integridy. Maxine was there to see it all, and tell it through her amazing recall. This book is an important piece of history, and should be read by anyone who calls themselves a fan of country music.

I've been a fan of the Browns ever since I was a young child in the early 1960's and my mom bought a Browns album. In recent years, I continue to enjoy the sweet harmonies brought by this incredible brother/sisters singing team.

Maxine Brown writes a riveting story of what country music was like in the 1950's, when they got started. It was a brutal, unforgiving business at the time and the Browns had their share of unscrupulous businessmen. She also writes about the relationship the Browns had with other country music singers of the day, some who have become major legends.

Very honest & open by the Author/Singer Maxine Brown. Very interesting & revealing, especially about Elvis Presley & Jim Reeves. Very good book.

Maxine Brown was part of a family country band with her brother, Jim Ed and sister, Bonnie. Their most famous recording is that of Edith Piaf's `The Three Bells'.

She writes about her early family life growing up in rural south Arkansas during the Depression. Her journey in country music and the people with whom she traveled and the songs she wrote. The people she met and performed with such as Jim Reeves, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Chet Atkins. Performing on the Louisiana Hayride, at The Grand Old Opry and touring Europe. Particularly touching was the story about Jim Reeves' tragic death. It bought a new reality to his life for me.

I particularly enjoyed her stories of their encounters with Elvis Presley and how he fell in love with Bonnie and asked her to marry him. She turned him down. One particular incident was at the time of his discharge from the army when he called a press conference and invited the Browns to attend. He asked Bonnie did she wait for him and she told him `no', she was married and expecting a baby. She must have known what would have been ahead.

I absolutely loved reading this book and did it in 3 days. I love country music and it is also takes a look at the background of some of the great American country performers and the people involved with their careers.

Here in Australia we only see the end result of some the greats and have no idea what life was like for budding country singers in America.

I found this book while listening to WSM America's Country Music Station broadcast live from The Grand Old Opry. There was a live interview with Maxine promoting the book.

Thank you Maxine, for the experience.

Kudos to Maxine Brown for her fascinating no-holds-barred look at the country music industry of the 1950's and 1960's. Maxine, along with sister Bonnie and brother Jim Ed, were legendary country group The Browns, who chalked a number of hits for fifteen years, notably THE THREE BELLS, one of the biggest hits in country music history and as well as a number one pop hit for them. The Browns were all but ready to throw in the towel when they scored that monster hit. Their RCA recordings were not producing major hits. The group earlier came to success on the small Fabor Records label founded by one Fabor Robinson. Like many vocalists on small labels during the era, according to Maxine, the Browns "never made a dime" on their hit LOOKING BACK TO SEE, needless to say she has harsh feelings for Robinson "probably the sorriest b****rd then infesting the industry." She recalls a string of horrors the Browns had to put up with due to the association, so much so Robert Cochran, in the book's introduction feels to need to note country musican historian Colin Escott found similar stories from other Robinson associates in his research. Maxine titles one of her chapters "We Get Screwed" and her tales of blackmail attempts to harassment are truly astonishing.

There's lots of good times too, from dozens of close friends in the industry from Elvis Presley to George Jones and their years as the leading country vocal group. The Browns were especially close to Jim Reeves, and like Reeves they suffered from some backlash in some country circles because of their pop hits. Maxine recalls a run-in she had with Little Jimmy Dickens at a country music function during the peak of the Browns' crossover success when Dickens strolled up to them and said "What are you doing here? You Ain't country." As you might have guessed Maxine is not the type to just stand there and take that, calling him a "sawed-off son of a b***ch" which broke into a cuss fest that led to Maxine and Dickens not being on speaking terms for years although she happily notes they have since made amends.

After the Browns disband in the late 1960's and brother Jim Ed becomes a popular male star, Maxine found it difficult to launch a solo career (I personally love her only solo album SUGAR CANE COUNTY) and is surprised how quickly the industry seems to have forgotten she was one third of the hottest group in country music. Happily, the Browns have frequently reunited for concerts since the late 1980's and still perform today.

LOOKING BACK TO SEE is a great read, loaded with rare photos. Maxine writes in a friendly, talkative style and as you might guess, is as blunt as someone having an intimate conversation. This is a fairly large book - 348 pages - for a country star autobiography. The University of Arkansas (Maxine's home state and where she still lives) published this book and did a fine job with it. It's clear a local press is the way to go for country music star's of the past who might not be able to attract New York publishers. This book is a must for anyone who loves country music during it's classic "Nashville Sound" era.

My title is part of the inscription her husband Charlie had placed on Patsy's grave marker.Time has shown that truer words have never been said.
All the letters in this book were written to Treva Steinbicker who started and operated her fan club.They corresponded very frequently from the time that Patsy started in the business in 1955 when she was was only 23.The letters continued till 1959.There may have been more and Treva probably continued until she was killed in a car accident in 1960;but no letters were found during that period. Patsy met her untimely death in a plane crash on March 5,1963.
More than anything else,these letters show what a huge struggle and sacrifice to health,family and security the artists of the 50's went through in establishing a career.The number of Country Artists ,who made a living,were only a few dozen,and it took many years to make it.However,the music they made came from the heart and soul and was so good because they really lived it.Today new superstars appear like autumn leaves,and in my opinion most of it is "studio" music and that which the Industry promotes.It is hihhly that the stoff promoted today will be enduring like that which we got from the artists of Patsy's time.
Try as they may,to replace Country Music with Pop,Rhinestone Cowboy stuff,Country Rock,New Country,Line Dance music,the music of the Legends like Patsy,Hank Williams,Web Pierce,Johnny Horton,Roy Acuff,Ernest Tubb,Loretta Lynn,and other artists of the 50's and 60's,the real Country music survives because of the simplr fact that Country Music is the music of the people,by the people and for the people---Not the music establishment and studios.
The thing that surprisedme the most is how little these artists were compensated These letters show that during the time Patsy made her greatest hits,she virtually lived in poverty.Just imagine how moch people who couldn't write a simple ditty or even carry a tune,made off Patsy.

I found, Love Always, Patsy to be quite compelling. I wasn't reading about Patsy Cline the superstar but "Patsy" the young girl working her way up. To be able to do that in her own words left me with a special warmth for the person and all she hoped to achieve. To spend time recapturing a "lost" time in the business of music. A more simple time. I would recommend this book not only to Patsy Cline fans but anyone interested in music, life, biographies, or a hard working housewife.

I am the secretary for the Always Patsy Cline Fan Organization and I have to say, I'm pretty picky about my Patsy Cline merchandise, info., etc.

This book was so interesting to me because you really found out who Patsy was. She struggled just like the rest of us. It blew me away at how tight things were for her. Although times were tough, she kept going to make her dreams come true.

You could really tell how much she loved Charlie and her new daughter, Julie. Randy wasn't born yet.

It was really easy to read and I couldn't put it down. It's a real treasure to have something like this about someone we don't know much about, because of how short of a time she was with us.

If you are in any way a fan of Patsy Cline, this is a must read for you. It also contains a few new photos.

Enjoy!

Thank you Mike and Cindy for sharing the personal letters of Patsy Cline with all of us. What better way to get to know someone, then to peek into their letters written to someone very special. Not only are the words that she writes very intimate and from the heart, but the paper they are witten on and the way they are written(phrasing and penmanship) give you insight into Patsy's feelings and personality. Since reading this great book, I have become an REAL Patsy Cline fan.

If you are looking for a book that tries to analyze Patsy Cline from a woman's perspective, read Margaret Jones' biography. If you want dirt and hack writing, read Ellis Nassour. But if you want to know Patsy Cline, read this book. Patsy wrote it herself with a guiding hand from Mike and Cindy. Patsy tells us in her own words what kind of a woman she is and she shares her dreams and disappointments in a way no other writer can touch.

Mike and Cindy let Patsy tell the story, intruding long enough to clarify a point or identify an obscure reference.

The backbone of Duke Ellimgtons music was his association with Billy Strayhorn. Where such genius came from emanates from poverty and rather ordinary family roots. This is a fascinating and beautifully documented story that completes any previous knowledge of the beauty that is Ellingtons music. Strayhorn was obviously an unrecognized genius deserving of notoriety and equal prominence.

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

one of the most interesting biographies I've ever read. When Billy Strayhorn was growing up in Pittsburgh he met Duke Ellington in the back of the theatre after a concert Duke performed at. He blew Duke away when Billy played the piano for him. Years later Duke would remember him and asked Billy to come out to NYC to see him. When Billy asked for directions Duke would write on a piece of paper, take the A train. While on the A train to Upper Manhattan to see Duke, Billy wrote the music for 'Take the A Train". So it goes the great collaboration between Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn would begin. Always in the background and never given the proper credit for all the music he wrote Billy Strayhorn would live a lush life. Travelling the world and meeting the kings and queens of the jazz world, he could be the life of the party but the applause for Duke Ellington's music would bypass him. Being black and gay back in those days was not acceptable behavior so Billy stayed in the background and Duke kept him. Billy wrote the music and Duke played it, his own personal muse. Billy loved the 3 am hour the best, it was the happiest hour of the day when you're too exhausted to care anymore and numb to everything else. A wonderful 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.

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.

with so many biographies about 60s era icons coming out now regaling their bygone days and sometimes nightmarish tales of sex, drugs and r&r, it's refreshing to hear a story that is not only current, but enlightening as both author D'Mot and folkstar Donovan play their parts in bringing forth the music once again. A well written, entertaining, and easy to read book that anyone from who recalls the summer of love will enjoy.

I found this an engaging book, one that I could hardly put down once I started reading. Although this is Lucy's first published book, her writing style flows like a conversation with a friend. A friend who sees evidence of a higher mind at work in everyday happenings. I found this book strengthening my metaphysical faith in a force for good at work in the universe. This book is inspirational to all who desire to follow their own path. Lucy certainly did, but it takes much courage. A wonderful read, highly recommended.

I've been a Donovan-fan since first hearing Catch the Wind 40 years ago. My wife and I visited California two years ago and saw the tribute to Donovan and loved that too. This book tells the story of the making in an entertaining, easy to read, conversational style that makes you feel like you're sitting in the author's living room. As she describes her every day miracles, it gives one pause to take notice of the special things in our own lives that we might be overlooking. The author's humor is evident throughout. I'm touched by this this book, by Donovan's music and the tribute music and hope they all continue forever.

I found this book so compelling that I just couldn't put it down. So many of the thoughts expressed resonated with me as well. Inspiration really does come to those who seek it, and people really are drawn together for a reason - even if that reason is only understood in retrospect. So many people talk of writing a book, or pursuing some other dream, but never do it. Ms. D'Mot has led a fascinating life, and has done things others only dream of. Her courage and creativity enabled her not only to overcome grief, but to touch the lives of others in a positive way. Her life demonstrates, in a most uplifting way, that it CAN be done!

There is an old saying that a moving target is hard to hit. I think this also holds true for both life and Lucy D'Mot's book Moving Mountains. It's a great first-hand tale of being open to the universe, even while having a doubting streak. I hope this book allows other folks to be able to have the courage to listen to those voices, omens, signs (no matter what manifestation they come in) to pursue their dreams.

The book disclose many backstages tales of opera. I enjoyed it pretty much.

I found this book absolutely fabulous. Mr. Volpe is to the point and shall we say, extremely honest, in his account of his years at the opera, including via himself. One finishes this book with a greater understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. It reads well, with enough details to keep the average reader riveted and without the unnecessary clutter found in some of those books that insist on giving us an hour by hour acount of events. I especially liked the way the book was subdivided. If it does follow a certain chronological order, each chapter focuses on a specific subject matter, for example signers... that serves as the guide thru the different events. Hence, this book is delightful and I strongly recommend it to all and especially, if not exclusively, to opera lovers. Even ones who do not know a lot about opera will love this book.
Marie Kirouack

Opera is dramatic and bigger than life on stage and back stage. Now we learn about all the drama that also goes on in managing the Metropolitan Opera, the largest opera company in the world and an arts organization that puts on more opera performances each year than any other company on earth. Its budget is more than $200 million for something like 240 performances per year. I was quite surprised to read how the monies to fund this huge budget are raised. No, it isn't the government, corporate, or even the richest donors that provide the bulk of the money as I had suspected.

The 2005-2006 budget was $221 million. The Box Office receipts were $101 million, the endowment of $300 million provided another $18 million, parking and commons revenues provided $10 million, and the support from the Federal, State, and City governments was only $375,000! Where does the other $92 million come from each year? 125,000 private donors, 2/3 of whom live outside New York City, provide donations ranging from $60 to more than $500,000 and total $80 million. The 300 members of the Metropolitan Opera Club provide another half-million, and the board members each provide substantial contributions to the met each year. I found this fascinating and quite a different mix than I had expected.

The author, Joseph Volpe, has run the Met for the past 16 seasons, but has worked at the met for more than four decades. He joined as a carpenter and worked his way up from the back of the house to operations. While he showed great skill in getting the shows on stage, he was passed over more than once for the job of Managing Director because of his blue collar background. But after floundering through some poor appointments, Volpe got the job. He admits that his personal style is more, well, frank than most other arts managers and the scowl on his face on the cover photograph (and in some of those included in the book) let us know that he is all about getting the shows on stage and at the highest level rather than getting us to love him as a person.

Volpe came to love opera while working at the Met. True, his grandmother had him listen to "Cavalleria Rusticana" with her when he was a child, but it was getting the magnificent sets to work and to hear the great singers, choruses, and see the dancers, costumes, and even the guests, that got him to see what grand opera is truly about and fall in love with the greatest of all art forms.

The book is part his own biography, part the history of the Met, and part about the great singers he has worked with while at the Met in his various capacities. The book has dozens of interesting photos from all the eras of the Met and the stories of the singers are well chosen and very entertaining. Pavarotti, as you might expect, provides some wonderful anecdotes when he is trying to help Volpe lose weight and includes Volpe in his "yoga" lessons.

The book is quite a pleasant read and I enjoyed it a great deal. It is interesting to hear about the whole of the opera company including everyone it takes to make the shows rather than just the great soloists. Coming from a blue collar background myself, I enjoyed hearing about the working guys and gals that make the show work for those fabulous artists who create the great music with their voices and hearts. The magic wouldn't be nearly as powerful without all those sets, costumes, lights, and the performers on the chorus or the dancers.

Recommended!

Joseph Volpe was a tough as the job he took on when he grabbed the reins of the Metropolitan Opera House, having to deal with the likes of James Levine and Luciano Pavarotti.
But as in the phrase beloved of behavorial psychologists, his was a "tough love." He started as a carpenter at the Old Met with but a passing interest in opera, but by the time he left, music infused his very blood with a passion for his work and the people who populated the space he called home.
The autobiography details the years, the failed marriage, the battles with superstars, the triumphs and disappointments with a candor perhaps unique in this type of memoir, where the authors tend to be either diplomatic or, as with Sir Rudolph Bing, unrelentingly acerbic.
Volpe tells his story in lean, plain-spoken language that reveals the inner workings of the gargantuan Met and makes that place of mazes and convolutions an environment the reader can understand.
Joe Volpe (after reading the book, it's hard to think of him as Joseph) dragged The Met kicking and screaming into the 21st century without violating the traditions that surround opera, and his book is refreshing, entertaining and revelatory.
It should be read by anyone interested in opera, politics or the big business of show.

Joseph Volpe's "The Toughest Show on Earth" is a remarkably comprehensive look at the recent history of the Metropolitan Opera as told through the eyes of the retiring general manager, himself. Volpe has the best "view" in the house and no wonder...he's been there for over forty years.

From the start it's clear that Joe Volpe is not a man to be crossed lightly. Tough as nails (and nails were part of his business) he rises from an entry level position to the top job...and reveals much along the way. There's just enough "dirt" in this book to tickle the senses of the reader and anyone who has ever been in opera knows exactly what Volpe describes...in order to be associated with opera personalities it is sometimes required to act like one.

The longest chapter in "The Toughest Show" is devoted to Volpe's firing of Kathleen Battle and one can just see the steam building in the author's ears as he amasses stories of misbehavior on the part of the "embattled" diva over a period of years. Finally, he acts, much to the delight of the cast and crew. It's a juicy chapter and one of the best in the book. While Volpe offers reflections on just about anyone with whom he has come in contact, he reserves the nicest comments for conductor James Levine and (whom he calls the "Siamese Twins") tenors Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo. Without these three would there be a present-day Metropolitan Opera?

There are occasional bouts of self-serving given over to by the author and often he feels a need to defend himself based on some past controversial decisions, (which I found rather astounding given the fact that he is departing the scene) but what makes "The Toughest Show" such a wonderful book is the comprehensiveness of the Met story. It's not only onstage and backstage but everywhere else, too. "The Toughest Show on Earth" is the greatest guided tour around. It's a terrific read and Volpe deserves much credit not only for this book but for a lifetime of service dedicated to one of the nation's treasures...the Metropolitan Opera.

THIS BOOK IS SO GREAT,I EXPECTED IT TO BE GREAT, BECAUSE EVERY TUPAC BOOK THAT I HAVE I PICK OUT CAREFULLY TO MAKE SURE, I CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHOICE, BUT THIS IS THE BEST ONE BY FAR, IT EVEN HAS TUPAC'S GROCERY LIST IN IT, NOW, HOW AMAZING IS THAT, IS NOT EVERDAY, THAT YOU GET TO OWN YOUR FAVORITE IDOL'S GROCERY LIST, YOU ACTUALLY GET TO HOLD HIS PRISON CARD, INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT IT IN A BOOK, IT HAS A RARE PICTURE IN THERE TOO, IT HAS HIS RESTURANT MENU IN THERE THAT HE WAS GOING TO OPEN UP, THE POWEKEA CAFE, THAT IS SO GREAT, I HAVE ALWAYS DREAMED OF A BOOK LIKE THIS, AND WHEN THIS BOOK ARRIVED TO ME, MY DREAM TURNED INTO A REALITY, THIS IS A GREAT BOOK, YOU'D BE CRAZY NOT TO GET IT IF YOU ARE A TUPAC FAN, YOU ARENT A OFFICAL TUPAC FAN, UNTIL YOU HAVE OWN THIS BOOK, TRUST ME, YOU WONT REGRET IT ONE BIT,

MUCH LOVE, CASSIE YOUR BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBIGGGGGGGGGGGESSSSSSSSSSSSSST FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
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WHOLE WIDE WWWWWWWWWORLD ,-)

I think this book it`s wonderful and really excellent brilliant thing I `ve ever read
Thank you!

This book is incredible. The book is full of life with photos, documents, blueprints, and much more. Readers will be pleased with all of the detachable documents and things that somehow make you feel closer to Pac. My mom and I were in tears when we read on of the detachable court documents that a father wrote to a judge regarding Tupac's true character. He stated that his son was deathly ill and had one final wish that Tupac granted. What a tear jerker!! Read and enjoy. You will come away inspired and more in love with a man that helped change the way we perceived thugs and how we felt about hop-hop.

Excellent book. The copies of tupacs writings etc are unbelievably realistic. The CD is fantastic. If you are a Tupac (2Pac) fan this is a must have book

I bought this book for my son-in-law who is much interested in Tupac. When I opened it, I was amazed at how beautifully put together the book is. It has an innovative, creative format which combines story, photo, and the primary source materials of his life. I know this is probably a pretty academic review--but really, this is a creative, gorgeous, well- designed auto/biography. Excellent.

I passed on this book when it first appeared figuring a mere concert list wouldn't be very interesting, what a blunder! This book is far more than a concert chronology, it's an enthralling history of the band, bursting with photos and short essays on the people, places and events that make up Who history. This was clearly a labor of love for the authors, and if Who fanatics have been able to find a few errors scattered around, big deal, I'm just glad the book was reissued as a sub-compact paperback updated to the shows following the death of John Entwistle. As the surviving members of The Who have chosen to "Defiantly spit into the abyss" and continue to tour to critical and public acclaim, further editions of this fine book are entirely justifed. And boy was I thrilled to recently find I still have a ticket stub from a Who show thirty years ago documented in this book. There are maybe half a dozen essential books about The Who and this is one of them, if it's the only one you buy then you've made a good choice, it's outstanding whether you're a new Who fan or a grizzled Wholigan.

Seem to be reading and listening a lot to the Who, and this book was an impulse buy.

For the fan, this is a way to walk through history with the band, from the earliest beginnings as the Detours, and even before with Daltrey's founding of the group, and Townshend and Entwistle's affiliation with others.

A lot of stories, memorabilia, set lists, and very interesting stuff.

I really enjoyed this book. Especially the great photos included.
I bought my copy in London, so it was nice to travel parts of London and see a few places where they actually played! But it's really only for die hard fans of the band (like myself, I guess). Also interesting are the set lists to the shows they played.
I'm no good at writing reviews, but I'll highly recommend this one. It's worth the price. A thanks to Irish Jack and Joe McMichael for making it.

And of course The Who. The greatest band in the world.

First thing you should know is that while this is a thick book, it is also small; around 6" x 5", which is quaint, and not a flaw in anyway, just a surprise. There are lots of great pictures, reviews, accounts, and set lists provided.

The flaw, to my mind though, is that there are no references about circulating RECORDINGS of these shows. Most of the hardcore fans who would buy this book probably collect tapes, bootlegs, and cdrs. Most of the time a setlist or stage comments are provided for a show it's because a recording exists. I would have loved it if the authors could have aknowledged this with brief comments like, "A clear, but distant audience recording exists for the first 80 minutes of the concert" or "A mixed soundboard recording of this show has been bootlegged and rereleased many times." There are websites with this kind of information and other highly collected bands, such as Led Zeppelin, have entire books devoted to the collection of unreleased material.

If you're a fan you're guaranteed to enjoy this book regardless, so get it!

If you get an opportunity to see The Who (now on tour - summer/fall 2000) please do so. Other than Bruce Springsteen, they are without peer on stage.This book does a fine job of detailing Who gigs from the early 1960's (as the Detours)to the 1996-1997 Quadrophenia tour. The authors recap the songs, the stage "happenings" (smashed guitars, onstage feuds, etc.)and other "Odds & Sods". It's kind of like a baseball box score for Who fans! If you're already a Who fan (or are an aspiring one) this is THE book for you!

Larry's been a close friend of mine for some time. This book didn't surprise me - it's the way he is: brutally honest, even if it hurts. He loves life as much as anyone I know and it came from seeing the other side and not liking what he saw. There's a lot to be learned from this book. If you're as honest with yourself as he is, it'll strike a nerve and make you take a good long look at yourself and the way you treat others.

This is a wonderful book about and by a person who really understands what life is all about.Maybe Larry would take exception with my saying that.Rather than thinking that he has all the answers,he has a deep faith in his God,and tries to live a good life and knows the rest is up to God.
He shows us that the life of a Superstar in the music business ,while being extremely arduous,it is one's decision to pursue it and has many rewards.Obviously,while money has to be a big part of it,it is the pursuit of your dreams ,joys and disappointments and the experiences and friendships that make it all worthwhile.
The great sacrifices and heavy load to keep things together,especially the life on the road and being away from family;can take its heavy toll.As we sit back and enjoy people like the Gatlins,we should keep in mind the effort they put forth to entertain and in many ways inspire us.
From this book we see a side of Larry's life that people outside the business can't really understand.When he talks about other stars ,Mickey Rooney for example,we see he is in great awe of him.Even more than that ,how impressed Larry was in finding that Mickey was so impressed with him.Larry may be a 'big star' but he carried that mantle with an even greater humility.
Maybe ,All the Gold is not in California,in a bank,in the middle of Beverly Hills;a lot is in the hearts and souls of people like Larry and others like him.
People of faith will understand what Larry is saying.Hopefully those without faith,might see what strength faith can be in good and difficult times.
A very good and inspiring book.

Books rarely hold my attention. Can't tell you how many I've started and put down. I started Larry Gatlin's book a few days ago and can't stop reading. Half-way thru the book, his re-telling of successes and failures have me grabbing for a kleenex every few pages. His reliance on God and coming back to God's grace are touching/inspiring. He gives God the credit for every moment that counts in his life that will connect to another open door (try to count how many times he writes, "another God moment.") His writing style is energetic, to the point, down to earth, honest - just as his personality is on stage. (I saw the Gatlin Brothers in concert in Kansas City 12/28/02). This book makes the reader rejoice as we watch him overcome alcoholism and substance abuse. Who wouldn't want Larry to win over these addictions, for his sake and his family's sake back home. He doesn't overdo the details but gives the full picture in few words. Keep the music coming Gatlin Brothers!

I'm a Larry Gatlin fan. His book is written as well as his songs. I was captivated by his life story which he described in such down to earth, honest words. And it is so funny.
What a talent!

I've been around the music business for the past 30 years, I have NEVER seen an artist be this honest and open about the rise and the fall of ones career. Larry lays it ALL on the line and this should serve as a wake up call for those that can not handle "life in the fast lane". Larry's story is 24KT solid gold. A real must read from someone who has certainly been there, done that.

I was always pulling up a blank on my mind when anyone mentioned Tupac. Not only that, I also never knew when his music was playing. All I knew was that he was a rap artist who was shot to death one unfortunate day. What I came to learn from this book was stunning not only in the stories about his past, but also stories about his family, particularly his mother. The time and place of his beginning is humbling; for a child growing up in an impoverished and dangerous city, Tupac has shown society that great people CAN come from even the poorest of places. His revolutionary ideas and strong, provocative lyrics showed not only that great people can emerge from the most unlikely of places, but also showed that our society is full of corruption and in desperate need of reform, starting with the less fortunate and oppressed.

The book is the story of the author's life as it was when he grew up with Tupac. Even if you don't know who Tupac is (somehow I doubt that) you will still enjoy this book. The story is one of a man who plays the cards he was dealt and how no bad hand could hold him back. It gives you an appreciation of the artist, the author and of yourself all at the same time.
This is the book to read for Tupac fans as it is written in story-book format thus enabeling you not only to learn the specs of the life but also to be put in the shoes of someone who was near him before he was famous. Great book, great life, great read!! Pac4life haha!

Back In The Day: My Life and Times with Tupac Sharuk



Tupac was the greatest rapper/actor in history. But to get to the top he had to go through struggles in his childhoods. Thats why the theme of the story

Back in the in the Day: My Life and Times with Tupac Sharuk is to follow your dreams no matter what you had to go through and dont't stop unless

you have to. Tupac also teaches us to use our talents to enjoy our life. Darrin Bastfeild , the author of the book , go with Tupac adventures during his

high school years.So let talk about more of the theme.

Tupac actions of the theme was letting no one stop him from his talents. Every day he would wake up, go to school, come home or go to his freind house

and write raps, sleep then repeat the process all over. But one thing Tupac and the author always endured was both of them was poor although Darrin had

had a little more money then Tupac. So Tupac would borrow clothes from his friends or kids from the school bring him clothes. Any chances Tupac had to

to get a break he takes. For example Tupac and his friends almost had a break into Hollywood but the seruity guard caught them and the manager of Salt n' Pepa

reject them saying he had to cacth a plane. No matter how much he was rejected Tupac still had a break.

Tupac also shows the theme by the words out his mouth. One thing Darrin points out is that Tupac said he was little was that he wanted to be a revolvutionary

when he grows up. That shows Tupac known what he wanted to be which he did but did it in a different style such as a rapper and an actor.He always told

everyone what he wanted to be and he showed it. Like one of the Tupac wrote when he was growing up "We Work Hard" was what he did .He spoke out for

people like him while he and his mom was with the Black Panther movemment about the voilence in his nieghberhood. So not only did Tupac rap but he was also a

worker for peace.

Yes this theme is true because I had my own taste of bad karma. When I was born I had a blood infection so I stay in the hospital for fifthteen days. Around two

years old I had lead poisoning, which I miricaly survive and had to get surgery on on my ankle. At five my sodium level was to high. and only last year did I nearly

passed out because of my heart membrace I got when I was born. Still I'm smart, got accepted to a good school and go there and play an insturment in band.That

proves that the past can not predict your furture.

In the end Tupac achieved his goals. He starred in movies such as A Raisin in the Sun and made smash hits like Califoria Love. He had the world knowing what

his name was and rocking to his beat espcially in the black nieghberhoods of America. He known people like Biggy Smalls and Mary J. Bligh. Darrin almost went on

a tour with Tupac realized they had lives of there their own and went their seperate ways. Tupac shows just we can anything we want to as long as we set are minds

to it. But sadly, he was shot and died seven days later.

This is a good book, insightful and well written by Mr.Bastfield, it was clearly written as a labor of love and a need to document an intense kinship, that ended before it had a chance to mature in the later years of life. Since Tupac Shakurs untimely death there have been many people trying to capitalize on his memory, however this author and book do not fall into that category. For those who are interested in the somewhat awkward but always smooth teenager, who would one day become Rap musics greatest legend, this is a heartfelt account of the building of the man behind the myth, the carefree but yet fiercely determined ghetto kid, who had the right stuff to overcome the enormous odds stacked against him. Few have the courage to dream big and then pursue those dreams at all cost, this is a story and observations of a young man who did just that. The book falls short in some areas but overall is well worth reading, and a job well done by Mr.Bastfield.

I liked this book quite a bit.

Mainly because it offered a different perspective than most other books about Tupac.

This book was written by a teenage friend who experieced the same things Tupac himself experienced. They 'shared the struggle' of trying to better themselves in a very harsh environment.

This book shows the almost relentless passion Tupac had to try and influence the world around him in a positive way. And the internal struggle he had with some of his actions. He knew of the contradiction and was trying to evolve. Too bad he was cut short in his quest.

One of the most telling insights to the basis of Tupac's personality is the answer to the question one of his earlist teachers asked. "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

For those who haven't ever looked too deeply into Tupac's more intellectual and compassionate side, there is a surprise in store, Tupac's heart. For those of us that knew he was much more than a thug, you'll see more and more of his depth.

An easy read that kept me flippin pages..

Pete Best occupies a place in history worthy of a great Shakespearian character. He was the Beatles' original drummer who was sacked in favor of Ringo Starr at the precise moment the band was offered a recording contract by George Martin of E.M.I. Records. Best and co-author Patrick Doncaster tell the whole early Beatles saga, sparing us few details of the carousing, pranks and debauchery, but also imparting the fun, cameraderie, and musical growth of the Fab Four in those heady Mersyside days. I was expecting a fun read when I bought this book, but never expected the haunting, spooky feeling that remained after I finished the last chapter entitled "Down Among the Ghosts." In this short final chapter, Pete describes his emotions today when he wanders down into his mother's basement, the site of the former Casbah Club, one of the original Beatles venues. Here he lets himself travel back in his mind's eye to the rollicking days when Liverpool's musical explosion was going full tilt; and the bands, the screaming girls, the laughter, and dreams of glory were his everyday reality. In these visits, he conjures up the many departed people and former friends who poured downstairs each night. He sometimes takes a few whacks at his little brother's drum kit which sits by the old coffee bar. Then, he lets the cloud of memory evaporate, and climbs back up the stairs as today's Pete Best, a civil-servant living not far from his old home. Really a unique and amazing read!

In a sense Pete Best was a winner of another kind.
He made a succesful marriage for one thing and after 1995 a lot of money.
His recording career in the States came to nothing and yet the songs were typical Merseybeat,mostly written by Waddington and Bickerton who would achieve success in the 70s with a string of hits by the Rubettes.
Also overlooked is the fact that he was the only one of the 1962 Beatles who got a Decca recording contract

Wow. I read this book and enjoyed it immensely. It is the most honest account I have read in years.
Pete Best was with the Beatles during the early sixties, when they had yet to hit the big time. They spent several months in Hamburg, just learning their trade. He was with them through the Cavern Club years and the Decca audition. But just when things started to go right for the band, he was sacked.
Why?
We don't know. Pete says that he still doesn't know after all these years.
You may expect the book to be bitter about the Beatles success - but it isn't. You may expect him to bad mouth the band throughout - but he doesn't. He paints them in a remarkably nice light, that comes across as both honest and believable.
He recounts tales about drugs, drink and girls - and describes the personalities of the big bands they met - Tony Sheridan and Gerry and the Pacemakers for example.
And he also gallently talks about the day he was sacked, and the reasons why he thinks they did it.
The prologue at the end that describes his subsequent career shows that we shouldn't be sorry for him at all... What we wouldn't give to be at the heart of that!

Highly recomending this book for any Beatles Fans.
Anyone who is interested in the early Beatles History
this is a must read....
I finished reading this book in just under two days.
And like another reviewer I also found myself unable to put it down! It just drawns you in.
I came away with a different prospective on Pete,
really not knowing much about him or his life except that he was the original drummer for the Beatles.
I actually bought this book to be autogrpahed as I was going to see him the following week and lucky the book arrived in time..
A must have!!!!!

Just by chance, I picked this book up at a Tower Records, and found myself unable to put it down! Pete Best sounds like a true, honest to goodness gentleman, and I must admit that his firing is by far one of the more seedier, dirtier chapters of Beatle lore. Pete gives excellent insight into these first few years that helped bring rise to Beatlemania. I especially found his story about the George Harrison illness episode to be utterly haillarious! I won't tell anymore about it; read for yourself. The reader is given a very there-as-it-happened feeling. As far as Pete's drumming goes, a Keith Moon he was not, but he did what was required and being a drummer myself, I think the whole thing about not being good enough was a wrong assesment. I was very pleased to read this book and know that Pete has handled himself in his later years very well after the incident involving his being fired from the group. I understand he's now doing the lecture circuit routine. Good for you Pete; you deserve your fair share of acknowledgement; you helped get the Beatles to the level of success they achieved. Highly recommended!