Written in My Soul: Rock's Great Songwriters Talk About Creating Their Music

Flanagan, Bill

ISBN 10: 0809251531 / ISBN 13: 9780809251537

Published by Contemporary Books, 1986

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Bibliographic Details

• Title: Written in My Soul: Rock's Great Songwriters Talk About Creating Their Music
• Publisher: Contemporary Books
• Publication Date: 1986
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0809251531
• ISBN 13: 9780809251537
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Interviews with twenty-seven top rock singers, songwriters, and musicians share their feelings about their careers and music

Reviews

YA Flanagan includes only ``performers whose songs could be performed solo on acoustic guitar without losing their sense or impact,'' in particular those from the ``rock tradition anteceded by Woody Guthrie and Leadbelly.'' These narrow parameters are necessary because so many talented songwriters are not interviewed. The 27 who are include Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson, Mick Jagger, Joni Mitchell, David Byrne, and Joan Armatrading. Flanagan's foreword discusses rock songwriting styles and methods in general. He then breaks the parade of songwriters into seven logical groups, including ``Southern Voices,'' ``Penitents of the Spirit,'' ``California Voices,'' and ``Emigrants.'' Each section is preceded by a brief introductory discussion, as is each interview. These discussions provide great insight into the history of rock and roll by placing the artists in context; the interviews then add insight into their various writing styles. Students and other interested readers of music literature, of songwriting, and of rock and roll will appreciate this well-organized, well-presented collection. Dorcas Hand, Episcopal High School, Bellaire, Tex.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Talk about a subtitle! Flanagan, executive editor of Musician magazine, interviews 27 songwriters of the rock eracalling some of their music rock is stretching itand talks about songs and songwriting. Most of the composers seem happy to speak more about their craft than their lifestyle or career; the interviews are unusually frank and revealing. Flanagan approached the book as a unified project, so it's frustrating that it doesn't add up to more than a collection of good interviews. At least here the artists have the last word, and the results are a good addition to any popular music collection. Mark H. Sullivan, Univ. of North Carolina Lib., Charlotte
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.