How is it that one of the best interpreters of modern blues is a white boy from England? The blues resonates with certain troubled souls, as Brownie McGhee said, "Blues is truth." Traditionally associated with Black artists from America's Deep South, the blues has its own history and mythology, with pain and heartbreak as the prices of admission to this sacred club. Enter Keith Richards, a key player in this narrative. When thinking of modern guitar heroes, his name is inevitable. The bluesy, hard-driving riffs of the Rolling Stones set a standard for music, transforming the guitar into an essential part of everyday sound. Author Stanley Booth, who has known Richards for over twenty years, delves into his past, uncovering inspirations and social attitudes shaped by the aftermath of World War II. Booth’s conversations with Richards reveal his views on his craft, his complex relationship with Mick Jagger, and his admiration for blues legends like Furry Lewis and Robert Johnson. He discusses the essence of rhythm and the deep connections music has forged as a global expression of social passion.
Stanley Booth Book order (chronological)
Stanley Booth was a writer known for his insightful explorations of American culture, particularly its music and its people. His work often delved into the heart of Southern life, capturing its complexities with a keen eye and a distinctive voice. Booth possessed a unique ability to weave together compelling narratives that illuminated the experiences of artists and ordinary individuals alike. Through his lyrical prose and deep understanding of his subjects, he offered readers a vibrant and authentic glimpse into the soul of America.
The True Adventures of The Rolling Stones
- 435 pages
- 16 hours of reading
Stanley Booth was the Stones' live-in writer at the height of their fame and notoriety. Wherever they went, he went; whatever they took, he took too. The experience nearly cost him his life. Eventually he got his mind and body going in the same direction for long enough to describe exactly what had happened. This book took nearly fifteen years to write...