Customer Reviews

Straight Ahead: The Story of Stan Kenton (A Da Capo paperback)

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I don't know of any other bios of Stan Kenton. Having been a fan since my high school years, in the mid-fifties, I was forever searching for any information on Stan Kenton and his Orchestra. This book essentially gives a very personal insight into Stan Kenton's family life, his drive to present a very unique big band sound, and his close relationships with his band members. There are many, many comments made by sidemen, vocalists, and others which truly provide a wide range of opinions about Stan Kenton as a musician, leader, husband, friend, and ?. Carol Easton, with Kenton's permission, explored all facets of Stan Kenton's life. The good and the bad. If you are a fan of Stan Kenton, this book is a must for your library. I've read it four times over a period of less than ten years and I would never part with it.

Excellent portrayal of Stan Kenton and his musicians; what they had to endure while doing one-nighters across the country, and the many lessons learned in the process. It's easy reading, and well written.