With so many overlapping narratives and meanderings, this crowdsourced mélange lacks a throughline to the main man. However, it will send Russell’s fans to their hi-fis to give his music another listen.
A memorable work that will become the standard biography of the saxophone giant and should be embraced by all jazz fans and general readers. Highly recommended.
While some readers will appreciate the author’s no-nonsense approach, others may be turned off by references to casual sex and drug use. Readers will learn that surviving divorce is a process, but contentment is possible if one is willing to do the work to achieve it.
An entertaining and informative survey of some milestones of popular music. This book should delight anyone who has felt the magic only pop music can provide.
This account may become the standard biography that may appeal to general readers. Smith lauds Berry’s accomplishments in music but also characterizes him as a lonely, self-destructive, moody, and aggressively sexual man.