The Lives of Brian: A Memoir

Of all the recurring themes in rock music history, the Cinderella story is the most vicariously thrilling. One moment, a person can be playing in a little bar band in obscurity, and next they’re a member of one of the biggest marquee names in the business. Such is the story of Johnson, recruited from a working-class life in Newcastle, England, to become the lead singer of the legendary Australian rock band AC/DC. Johnson shares his incredible story in the same no-frills, straight-ahead rock style of his band. He relates the events of his life with an authentic directness. Johnson had accomplished much before AC/DC came calling for him, including becoming a husband and father, starting his own business, and training as a paratrooper. His writing style feels a lot like sitting next to him in a pub, as he regales readers with stories. Ending with his first album and tour with AC/DC, Johnson tantalizingly leaves the door open for a second memoir.