After seeing the movie, "Hail, Hail! Rock 'N' Roll", I had to find out more about this man's life. I wanted to learn about his background, his inspirations for his numerous hit songs, and his understanding of the events that shaped not only his life, but the course of rock music history. I came to understand that Chuck Berry had the courage and talent to bring American popular music and culture out of its restrained, obedient traditions and add excitement, sexuality and a raw honesty to the landscape of 1950's American society. It was his misfortune and his opportunity to have emerged as an artist during the 1950's, when the powers that be tried to crush rock 'n' roll, and he was an early casualty of that crusade. But he served his time well, making a remarkable comeback in 1964, with songs that he had written in prison that were equal, albeit more refined, to his great hits of the previous decade. Other reviewers have been critical of Berry's penchant for recalling tales of ribaldry, but on a deeper level, it illustrates the social taboos that existed at the time, and his attempts to reconcile his desire for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, with what American society was willing to grant him. After reading this book, I was left with the impression that Chuck Berry will probably never get the credit that he is due, at least in his lifetime. He is too outspoken, too independent, and was too far ahead of his time for the public to embrace his genius. But those who know, and know that they know, please tolerate them!Read full review
Great quality hardback book. I had this first edition years ago but lost it some time back so I was over the moon to have a chance to own it again. Wow Wow Wow!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Chuck Berry was my first concert in NYC. This is a terrific book, filled with many, honest, heartfelt and humorous stories and observations about his life and music. A great read for anyone into rock 'n' roll, who wants to hear some of those stories from Mr. Chuck Berry himself!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Interesting life as told in this autobiography by the man who lived it. I love all kinds of music and artists from a lot of different genres and am compelled to research the person or group behind what music I listen to. This book by Chuck Berry was terrific. Highly recommended.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I got the book promptly. It was as described. I look forward to reading it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Books
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on Books