Music is extremely powerful in shaping how you think and your personal development. It can manipulated in such as way that allows you to think differently about the world around you. It can politically charged, be inspirational, abstract, and really be just about anything else.
Books and music can certainly go hand in hand because they are both capable in pushing out certain emotions out of us, leave us in awe, and in short, help us see something in a new light. Whether you’re reading to dig deeper into a particular genre’s history or a favourite artist’s rise to fame, here are 5 must read books for all music lovers:
I’ll Take You There by Greg Kot
Who doesn’t like reading about behind the scenes, untold stories, and uncovered secrets? This gem is that and much more. It is the story of the Soul, R&B, and Gospel legend Mavis Staples, who used music to shine in the face of racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression. She formed the legendary Staple Singers group who went on to sell more than 40 millions records in part based on their politically driven music that inspired many during the civil rights movement.
Room Full of Mirrors: A Biography of Jimi Hendrix by Charles R. Cross
Jimi Hendrix was a monumental musical figure in the sixties as his psychedelic and experimental sounds added a new feeling to rock. His eclectic stage presence and controversial lifestyle coincided with his brilliance for studio production, incredible songwriting ability, and an unmatched swagger. After his premature death, his unconventional guitar sounds were widely imitated and served as a foundation for many successful artists today. This book shares Jimi’s rise to being an icon from those who had intimate relationships with him and is a must read for rock enthusiasts. Hendrix transcended the genre and this book is recommended for all music lovers in general.
Lady Sings The Blues: An Autobiography of Billie Holiday by Billie Holiday
Who better to talk about her own story than the jazz legend herself? Billie Holiday is widely known as a pillar in the jazz genre alongside legends like Miles Davis and Frank Sinatra. This very vivid autobiography sheds light on her experiences with jazz, poverty, fame, and drug addiction. It’s a no holds barred books that will keep you reading on and truly appreciate Ms. Holiday and her impact on jazz.
Prominent jazz musician Jose James recently released a full length album in honour of Billie Holiday and really reflects on her vital role in his career as well as the genre as a whole.
http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecFG_n_MqyY
This is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession by Daniel J Levetin
This book is very interesting as it comes from a rocker-turned-neuroscientist. Daniel J. Levitin explores the connection between music and our brain by looking at how we listen to it, why we enjoy it, and even how it’s composition affects our moods. Ever notice how loud, beat heavy music can increase anxiety? Or how classical music, say a Mozart piece, can calm you down? This book looks at the various theories behind the interconnectivity of music and our brains. A definite must have for all music lovers.
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
This book slightly varies form the others above in the sense that it is a fictional novel. Ann Patchett sets this story in an unnamed South American country where high profile executives are held hostage by terrorists. Amongst the hostages is American Soprano singer Roxane Cross. The books is utterly compelling and uses Opera as a device to bring people together. Even the name ” Bel Canto” means beautiful singing in Italian. Even if you’re not an Opera fan, this book is a must have. Patchett is a brilliant writer that is able to seamlessly bring together some many moving pieces into a story that makes sense. Not only is it an interesting story but it is absorbing and will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time. Opera fans will certainly love this but all music lovers should have this one in their collection.
There you have it, 5 great books every music lover should own. Regardless of your music genre preference, it’s always good to dig deeper and see what’s out there. Music is something that is so powerful that can be used to tell stories, inspire change, and change lives. These books are just a few of many great books out there but very much worth checking out. Happy reading music lovers!
