Customer Reviews

John Hammond on record: An autobiography

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John Hammond led an incredibly interesting life, and he had the gift of finding natural, raw talent. The autobiography was a great read! He may have spent his life discovering new talent rather than trying to win the "father of the year" award, but for folks interested in music and the life of artists, the book was a memorable, delightful read. I still recall Hammond's description of a young trumpet player who Hammond felt was greatly underrated--Joe Smith. Comparing him to Louis Armstrong, Hammond said, "Joe Smith was greatly underrated. Louis could rouse, excite and audience, but Joe--he could make 'em cry." Hammond's words were memorable,unpretentious and heartfelt. The reader knew how much he loved music and the musicians. This book was one of my all-time favorite reads.

One can't deny John Hammond's contribution to Jazz. The man "discovered" Billie Holiday, Teddy Wilson, Count Basie and produced tons of records. On the other hand, he had a "bon savage" view of the Jazz musician that was far from reality. When Ellington began composing his "mood pieces", Hammond, until that time a Duke champion, became an enemy. His attitudes were both paternalist and naive. And this book reflects this behavior.