For a revolutionary artist with a true Midas touch, it’s no surprise that Jay-Z’s Decoded defies autobiography conventions. Structured around lyrics and personal anecdotes, the book explores the experiences that have inspired his lyrics, the cultural movement behind hip-hop, and the art form that he has helped to define. In describing his approach, he admits: “I’ve never been a linear thinker, which is something you can see in my rhymes. They follow the jumpy logic of poetry and emotion, not the straight line of careful prose. My book is like that, too.”
Comments (5)
Our Band Could Be Your Life. If you’re feeling sentimental for the Post-Punk Proto-Grunge days of Sonic Youth in it’s heyday and accounts of people falling asleep at the wheel of a tour bus.
http://amzn.to/cY3dmd
You missed Kristen Hersh’s Rat Girl. Recently published, this memoir stands out whether or not you’re a fan of Throwing Muses, (I liked them but was by no means a huge fan) or if you came of age in that era (I did, and that just adds resonance) she’s a remarkably gifted writer and it’s with great reluctance I set it down. Likely it will take time for word to get out, but I hope this book and its author get their deserving acclaim.
Alex Ross’ “Listen To This” definitely belongs on your list. While not as comprehensive as his 2008 “The Rest Is Noise,” this collection of Mr. Ross’ best periodic music essays from The New Yorker provides much food for thought and ears in terms of listening to and thinking about music, especially across genres.
[...] anticipating the release of Jay-Z’s memoir, Decoded, which comes out November 16th and promises to be, at the least, a lively read. But though Hova’s autobiography may be the most anticipated [...]
Late, Late at Night by Rick Springfield was a great read. I think he writes bio as well as lyrics in a smooth, honest, non-sleek, articulate style. You feel his honesty and sharing with the reader. It is definitely like he is talking right to the reader. Can’t wait to get and listen to the audio book!
Post a new comment