I never really read a book quite like this, but am very glad I had the opportunity to. This book is one man’s journey into “Making It” in the world of rock music. It’s the classic tale of the boy doesn’t get along with the parents and music becomes his way out of it all. But what is fascinating is the journey through his career. I have to say it’s a timeline through music history. The genres we visit in the book are the beginnings of folk music in Greenwich Village, New York, the Psychedelic Era, The early rock sounds in Boston and in California.
What makes this story unique is the people Myers meets and works with along the way. He meets Bob Dylan, early in his career. Gives James Taylor one of his first gigs as a young boy. Works with Chevy Chase in a band, Sees Jimi Hendrix, was part of the Martin Luther King march, Joni Mitchell (Even has a hand drawn Christmas card from her), Peter Tork of the Monkees and so on. There are so many cool stories like Myers helping out Procol Harum’s first U.S show. Keep in mind as you are reading the book you are experiencing the same things he did at the time, the difference is you have knowledge about their impact on rock music. I don’t want to give too much away, but there are so many gems in this book, it amazes me it’s not a movie. It would be a great way for people to see how music progressed.
Myers was in several bands that had mild success. His first main one was The Lost, the Chameleon Church (Which had Chevy Chase on drums), and Ultimate Spinach. Along with these bands, he brings to life the sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll cliche. Almost to a fault, you get details on all of his sexual and drug experiences. The way that Myers writes the story, you feel you are right there with him and you feel his triumphs and struggles. At times you are pulling for him and others you are in awe of the events that take place in his life. He never quite makes it to the top but he does have one hell of a ride. I highly recommend the book, there is so much to take in and see that any rock enthusiast will appreciate it.
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