Customer Reviews

Keith Richards: The Biography

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

You don't have to be a Keith Richards fan to thoroughly enjoy this book. Like him or not, he's one of rock & roll's most fascinating characters and, as such, his life story makes for a damn good read. Although Bockris does tend to romanticize some of Richards' darker (i.e. violent and/or self-destructive) moments, he unflinchingly explores all aspects of the legendary musician's personality. Don't expect much in the way of pictures, however. Only one photo is featured per chapter and it's a shame because Richards is as interesting to see as he is to read about.

I doubt Keith could tell his OWN story this well (in fact I doubt it very much). This book really seems to give the whole picture. It is well worth the expense.

Particular highlights: (1) VERY detailed information about Keith's drug use history. It is amazing the man is still alive; (2) VERY detailed info. about Ron Wood, his own problems and his role in the Stones; (3) Very detailed info. about Keith's solo career. I just wonder why the Winos broke up. Anyway, if you are a fan of Keith or the Stones you simply can't pass this book up.

Keith is a legend, but it might not always be for the right reasons. Of course he is the main engine that fuels the Rolling Stones machine, but once you read this book, you get to see the other reasons that have made him a well known icon. This man helped write the songs for a generation, and we are able to get an insight into the man in this biography. We cam see into his childhood, that first meeting with the man he would ultimately become famous with, Mick Jagger, to his decade long struggle with drug use and abuse. This guy defines rock and if you like the Stones, you need to read this book and get an insight in the man behind the band

From some of the quotes Kieth gives in the beginning of the book about his childhood, all the way to the end of this rather long book, you'll enjoy his rich, british, sense of humor. Bockris has written an autobiography about his life, not just about the crazy years Kieth spent battling heroin addiction. As hard as life can be, even being a herion addict, he can joke about his drug use and make the reader laugh. As much as I oppose using drugs, I admire Keith Richards as a musician and as seemingly honest,funny caring man who has outlasted many others in his profession. This book tells the story of a man who comes from "good stock" and I am sure you will enjoy reading it.

This is a great book that explores Keith Richards extraordinary body of work. Although I have been a major Stones fan since 1964 I learned a great deal about the history and dynamics of the Stones. Keith is a tremendously gifted individual and I found it fascinating to read about his difficulties with Mick Jagger and his strong belief that the Stones must stay true to their musical roots.

Great account of Keith's entire life as told by the man himself. The book gives a vivid account of Keith's musical beginnings, development and maturation as a musician and songwriter. Discusses his many musical influences, relationships with women, highs and lows with the stones and his 10+ year battles with heroin. The guy lives and breathes music 24/7, he is non-stop. By the end of the book I got a profound sense of someone who is a truly dedicated musician. It leaves no doubt why he has become a musical influence himself. You will not be disappointed with this book. A job very well done.

This book is the definitive biography of the greatest rock guitarist/philosopher of all time. Bockris, as usual, is sensitive, brilliant, and insightful in dealing with one of the most mysterious musicians to ever play rock, Keith Richards. Because the book probes not only his public life but also his private life, this book is as close as most people will ever get to understanding rock and roll's greatest enigma. Essential reading for Keef junkies (and I choose my words carefully!).

Entertaining and interesting look at one of the few "legends" that are one, for real, and two, still living. Richard's childhood, family, musical background, habits, drug excursions, and idiosyncrasies are described and explained by Bockris in a way, that makes ya love Keith Richards for the person he is, both musically and personally. Keith can play piano ballads from from 1930s by heart, in addition to being the foundation of the Stones sound, which is exemplified by his solo work and stints with "The Expensive Winos." I loved what Keith preferred for breakfast, as well as his food sauce that he had flown to many parts of the world where he toured. And, the Doctor says he's healthy. Richards doesn't appear to live the life of an accomplished rebel, he just lives life the way he wants to, regardless. Few can attest to that. So far he hasn't apologized for anything--and I hope he never does.

Like a swinging Keith Richards riff on top of the powerful backbeat of Charlie Watts's "Engine Room" I tore through this book so fast the pages were almost burning in my hands. I couldn't put the book down or stop reading it. Bockris proves with this biography that Keith Richards truly IS the ultimate rock n' roll icon through his inimitable, rhythmically driven style, attention to what makes music "swing" (something multiple modern artists have discarded) and an incredible presence that oozes off the pages. While Bockris backs his book up with the dialogues of those who knew Keef, these accounts often seem contradictory-- perhaps shedding some light on the paradox that is legend. Either way-- a must for all Richards apprentices, Rock afficinados and anyone who wants to learn a thing or two about how to feel their pulse more effectively...

Bockris paints a delightfully interesting portrait of the rock legend. I never truly knew just how great an impact Keith Richards has had on rock and roll. Very well written with a clear theme: Richards was a rebel, a true original who played by his own rules. Whether it be the drugs, relationships, or the band; Richards had a unique passion towards life that has made him a legend.