Been So Long

More about the book

From a founding member and lead guitarist of Jefferson Airplane comes a memoir that offers a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of a musical genius, capturing a vivid journey through America's psychedelic era. Jorma Kaukonen shares, "Music is the reward for being alive," in this candid account of his life and work. With a career spanning over fifty years, he has earned induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming best known for his legendary bands Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna. Been So Long narrates Jorma's quest for his place in music and beyond, detailing his upbringing as the grandson of Finnish and Russian-Jewish immigrants and his formative years spent abroad with his diplomat father. His life experiences, from coming of age in Pakistan and the Philippines to early gigs in D.C. and jam sessions in San Francisco with icons like Jerry Garcia and Janis Joplin, shaped his artistic journey. The memoir reveals not only his musical associations but also personal struggles, including addiction and recovery, as well as insights into his first troubled marriage and his enduring second one. Enhanced by diary entries, personal correspondence, and song lyrics, this memoir is as unforgettable and inspiring as Jorma's music itself.