Michael Gray is a distinguished critic, writer, and broadcaster recognized as a world authority on the work of Bob Dylan. His expertise extends deeply into rock'n'roll history, with a particular interest in pre-war blues and travel narratives. Gray's approach is analytical, focusing on the artistic development, thematic concerns, and stylistic innovations within the music he studies. He offers profound insights into the craft and cultural significance of musicians, providing a scholarly yet accessible examination of their creative output.
1st edn (Special edition 287 of 550). 8vo. Original gilt lettered black cloth (Fine), dustwrapper (Fine in protective cover, not price clipped). Pp. 351, illus with b&w photos (previous owner's neat annotation on title page).
"The Bob Dylan Encyclopedia is the culmination of over thirty years of dedicated research and scholarship by Michael Gray." "Inside these pages, you'll find a world of ideas, facts, and opinions. It's a world in which Baudelaire flows on from the Basement Tapes and A.S. Byatt looks out at the Byrds: in which Far from the Madding Crowd follows Ezekiel and Bob Geldof introduced Jean Genet: and in which Hank and William Carlos Williams stand side by side while J.R.R. Tolkien trails Titanic. Most of all, of course, it's a world in which everyone and everything interconnects with one of our greatest living artists: Bob Dylan."--Jacket
Provides a definitive retrospective appraisal of almost 40 years of work by one of the 20th centuries most significant artists. The author provides in this new edition fresh material and analysis. The material both updates the book through 1999 and offers major new studies of Dylan's entire oeuvre.
The biography chronicles Frank Zappa's impactful career, highlighting his journey to California and the creation of The Mothers of Invention. It reflects on his unique, irreverent personality and uncompromising approach to music. The updated edition reassesses Zappa's lasting influence on contemporary artists and fans, showcasing his enduring legacy. Accompanied by 60 black-and-white photographs, the book offers a comprehensive look at the life of one of rock music's most distinctive figures.