You Gotta Be Bad Before You Can Be Good! Talent Shows & Beyond

Book by Stone, Cliffie, Stone, Joan Carol

Stone serves up practical advice and encouragement for aspiring musicians, country style, in this amiable, posthumously published meditation on talent shows. Known throughout the country music business as a tireless promoter of emerging artists, Stone (Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Songwriting but Didn't Know Who to Ask) was historian of the Academy of Country Music for many years; since 1969, the ACM has awarded its annual Pioneer Award (the "Cliffie") to people who have made unique contributions to country music. Drawing on his experience as a musician, songwriter, publisher, booking agent and producer of radio and television programs that launched careers for a number of well-known performers, Stone and his coauthor/wife provide guidance along with anecdotes and homespun humor. From overcoming stage fright and hiring a manager to avoiding a major pitfall for performers--alcohol and substance abuse--the Stones cover all of the bases from beginner to seasoned pro. Novices will find much of the material useful, although those past the open mike stage may find the book somewhat repetitive. Likewise, Stone's easygoing, conversational tone will help take the edge off newcomers' anxiety and self-doubt, but some readers will find the jokes hokey and the quality of the writing less than melodious. Despite the focus on talent shows, it is Stone's exuberance as a cheerleader for fledgling artists that will likely remain in readers' minds. (Feb.)
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Stone (Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Songwriting but Didn't Know Who To Ask) has enjoyed a versatile career as DJ, bassist, comedian, songwriter, and booking agent; served as one of the founders of the Academy of Country Music and an original member of the Country Music Association; has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; and was inducted into the Country Music Disk Jockey's Hall of Fame in 1979. Needless to say, he has "been there and done that." His latest book, coauthored with his wife--a songwriter with over 100 published songs--provides the nitty-gritty details about how to use local talent shows to push your dreams into reality. Coverage is thorough: they explain rules and guidelines, how to prepare for performances and deal with stage fright, where to find talent shows, and the ins and outs of artist financing, managers, and audiences. This book is simply a goldmine of information as well as a tome of encouragement toward self-esteem. Recommended for music and/or vocational guidance collections in academic and public libraries.
-Kathleen Sparkman, Baylor Univ., Waco, TX
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.