My Life With Bob Marley 'No Woman, No Cry' by Rita Marley, Hettie Jones

Bob Marley has been a hero of mine since childhood. Growing up in the 1980s, my Dad constantly had Bob Marley and The Wailers on his vinyl player, himself a fan from Bob's 1970s heyday. A life cut tragically short by cancer, we all know Bob’s music, his legacy as the King of Reggae, the seminal ‘Legend’ album, and his Rastafari/prophet lifestyle (and the ganja). But what about his wife, Rita? How did she influence Bob’s music, life, his early days in Trench Town, and everything that followed? If you want a unique insight into the life of a Reggae legend, this seems like a good starting point and a book that taught me a lot about a guy whose music I still listen to today. As a white man, I was interested in Bob’s mixed-race heritage and his Jamaican/African roots, which Rita Marley gives a good insight into.

Rita Marley grew up in the slums of Trench Town, Jamaica, and she met Bob Marley at a recording studio (Studio One) in Trench Town. Bob and Rita became close friends, fell in love, and soon, she and her girlfriends were singing backup for the Wailers. At the ages of 21 and 19, Bob and Rita were married.

The rest is history: Bob Marley and the Wailers set Jamaica and the world on fire. But while Rita displayed blazing courage, joy, and an indisputable devotion to her husband, life with Bob was not easy. There were his liaisons with other women, some of which produced children and were conducted under Rita's roof. The press repeatedly reported that Bob was unmarried to preserve his "image." But Rita kept her self-respect, and when Bob succumbed to cancer in 1981, she was at his side. In the years that followed, she became a force in her own right as the Bob Marley Foundation's spokesperson and a performer in her reggae group, the I-Three.

Written with author Hettie Jones, No Woman No Cry is a no-holds-barred account of life with one of the most famous musicians of all time, which I definitely recommend. I bought this on ‘World Of Books’, which is a great second-hand online bookstore.

Paul McCartney The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present

Paul McCartney's 'The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present' is an extraordinary two-volume deep dive into the mind of one of music's greatest songwriters. Far more than a simple collection of lyrics, this monumental work presents 154 songs, each accompanied by McCartney's personal reflections, anecdotes, and insights into their creation. This isn't just a book for Beatles fanatics; it's a masterclass in songwriting, a cultural history, and a poignant memoir all rolled into one.

What makes 'The Lyrics' so compelling is the intimate glimpse it offers into McCartney's creative process. He meticulously unpacks the origins of his songs, revealing the inspirations, the moments of serendipity, and the sheer craft behind his timeless melodies and poignant words. We learn about his childhood, his relationship with John Lennon, the genesis of iconic tracks like 'Yesterday' and 'Hey Jude,' and even the stories behind lesser-known gems. The book is richly illustrated with previously unseen photographs, letters, and handwritten lyric sheets, adding another layer of depth and visual appeal.

The conversational tone makes it feel as though McCartney is personally guiding you through his vast musical landscape. He's candid, humorous, and remarkably detailed, offering a unique perspective on the songs that have shaped generations. While the sheer volume might seem daunting, the episodic nature allows readers to savour each entry at their own pace. 'The Lyrics' is an essential addition to the library of anyone who appreciates the art of songwriting, the legacy of The Beatles, or simply the enduring power of music. It's a testament to a prolific career and a truly immersive experience.

www.ryanoxleywriter.blogspot.com 

'The Ashes Miscellany' by Clive Batty

Cricket Book 'The Ashes Miscellany' by Clive Batty is an absolute treat for any cricket enthusiast, particularly those with a fondness for the storied rivalry between England and Australia. Far from being a dry historical account, Batty delivers a delightful potpourri of facts, anecdotes, statistics, and quirky trivia that makes delving into the Ashes feel like a treasure hunt.

What sets this book apart is its digestible format. You can dip in and out, finding fascinating nuggets on every page without needing to follow a linear narrative. From obscure records and memorable quotes to profiles of unsung heroes and infamous incidents, Batty covers the spectrum of Ashes history with a light touch and an obvious passion for the game. Whether you're a seasoned follower who remembers every series or a newcomer eager to understand the depth of this cricketing feud, there's something here to pique your interest.

The "miscellany" approach works brilliantly, preventing any one topic from overstaying its welcome and ensuring a constant stream of engaging content. It's the kind of book you keep on your coffee table, ready to pick up for a few minutes of cricketing pleasure. While it doesn't offer deep analytical insights, it excels at celebrating the unique spirit and enduring drama of the Ashes. A highly recommended read for anyone who loves cricket and its rich, often eccentric, history.

I bought this book from 'World Of Books', which is a second-hand haven for book lovers! 

www.ryanoxleywriter.blogspot.com 

Amy, My Daughter: The No. 1 Sunday Times bestselling memoir from Amy Winehouse’s father, Mitch

A book about Amy Winehouse written by her father must be good, right?

Mitch Winehouse's 'Amy, My Daughter' offers a deeply personal and often heartbreaking account of his daughter, the iconic singer Amy Winehouse. Published after her tragic death, the book serves as both a loving tribute and an attempt to set the record straight amidst the swirling narratives that surrounded her life and struggles. It's a raw, unfiltered look at Amy through the eyes of a father who adored her, battled alongside her, and ultimately grieved her loss.

The book traces Amy's life from her childhood in North London, her early musical inclinations, and her rise to global superstardom, to her highly publicised battles with addiction and mental health. Mitch Winehouse doesn't shy away from the difficult aspects, detailing the family's desperate attempts to help Amy, the frustrations with the music industry, and the relentless media scrutiny that often exacerbated her problems. He paints a picture of a complex individual: fiercely talented, incredibly loyal, but also deeply vulnerable and self-destructive.

One of the book's strengths lies in its intimate portrayal of Amy beyond the tabloid headlines. Readers gain insight into her humour, her generosity, her passion for music, and her deep love for her family and friends. Mitch shares anecdotes that reveal her quirky personality and the profound impact she had on those around her. He also addresses many of the rumours and misconceptions that plagued her public image, offering his perspective on events that were often distorted by the press.

However, the book is not without its critics. Some have argued that it presents a somewhat one-sided view, perhaps downplaying certain aspects of Amy's struggles or the family's involvement. It's important to remember that this is a father's memoir, colored by his love, his pain, and his unique perspective. While it provides valuable insights, it is not an objective biography.

Despite any criticisms, 'Amy, My Daughter' is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the woman behind the voice. It's a poignant and often painful journey, but one that ultimately humanises Amy Winehouse, reminding us of the immense talent and fragile humanity that lay beneath the public persona. It serves as a powerful testament to a father's enduring love and a tragic reminder of the devastating toll of addiction.

www.ryanoxleywriter.blogspot.com

The True Story Of The Beatles : Shout! by Philip Norman

Philip Norman's 'Shout! The True Story Of The Beatles stands as a seminal work in the vast canon of Beatles literature. First published in 1981, it arrived at a pivotal moment, just after John Lennon's assassination, offering one of the first truly comprehensive and unflinching looks at the band's meteoric rise and eventual dissolution. Philip Norman, a seasoned journalist, brings a critical eye and a wealth of research to this book, aiming to peel back the layers of myth and reveal the complex realities of the four men who changed the face of popular music.

The Beatles in Hamburg

What immediately strikes me is the meticulous attention to detail. Our author delves deep into the early lives of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, tracing their formative years in Liverpool, their rough-and-tumble apprenticeship in Hamburg (pictured above), and the gradual alchemy that transformed them into the global phenomenon known as The Beatles. Norman doesn't shy away from the less glamorous aspects, exploring the internal tensions, the ego clashes, the pressures of fame, and the personal struggles that often lie beneath their polished public image. He meticulously chronicles their creative evolution, from their early pop hits to their groundbreaking studio albums, providing context for each artistic leap.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the intricate and often fraught relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the primary songwriting partnership. Norman explores their creative synergy, their competitive drive, and the eventual fracturing of their bond. He also sheds light on the pivotal roles played by manager Brian Epstein and producer George Martin, acknowledging their crucial contributions to the Beatles' success.

However, 'Shout!' is not without its controversies. Portrayals of certain individuals, particularly Paul McCartney, have been criticised by some as overly harsh or biased. His narrative, while thoroughly researched, often carries a strong authorial voice that interprets events through a particular lens. This subjective element means that while the book is incredibly informative and engaging, it's not always a universally accepted account. I'd approach it as one significant perspective among many, rather than the definitive, unbiased truth - we Beatles fans can easily take sides. 

Despite these criticisms, 'Shout!' remains an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a deep understanding of The Beatles. Its scope is immense, its research impressive, and its narrative compelling. It provides a rich tapestry of the cultural, social, and personal forces that shaped the most influential band in history. For those who want to move beyond the hagiography and explore the human complexities behind the legend, Philip Norman's 'Shout!' offers a powerful and enduring account.

I got this from World of Books, which is a great resource for second-hand books. 

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