Customer Reviews

Upside Your Head!: Rhythm and Blues on Central Avenue (Music Culture)

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

 

 

This book deserves wider recognition. Upside Your Head !, written by Johnny Otis, was first published in 1993 but time has not diminished the merit of the subject matter. The author is a living R&B legend. His musical milestones are simply to numerous to list in this review. Throughout the book,the author provides riveting and vivid accounts of the African American musical contributions within the Rhythm and Blues genre. His detailed and lively profiles of the artists, tours, clubs and music business throughout the twentieth century are entertaining and insightful. Aside from his musical career,the author is a civil rights activist, pastor, painter, sculptor and successful business man and farmer.
All these elements play an integral part in his compelling story of the historical evolution of the Central Ave/L.A. African American cultural scene. His observations and personal experience on the impact of racism throughtout the second half of the twentieth century is especially thought provoking. His writing is particularly effective when it addresses the abuse and injustices experienced by the author, his family and fellow performers.
The pictures generously displayed throughout the book reflect a joy of being part of a musical movement that continues to resonate throughout the twenty-first century. The book provides the curious with an opportunity to explore the origins and artistic creative level of West Coast Rhythm and Blues. Upside Your Head!,is a richly rewarding reading experience.

This book by Johnny Otis, the legendary R&B artist, producer, composer, band leader, and mentor of great R&B performers is a fun and fast enlightening read for anyone who enjoys music of the pre war - post war Blues and R&B era. With political hues and comments on the too slowly changing issue of racism in America as a background to the music, the book gives a rich history from Otis's point of view and quotes many other performers of the era telling the story of the period and growth of " Race Music " and Records, to R&B, and eventually to Rock and Roll - for better, or worse. Full of rich information and Otis's strongly articulated take on our culture and the subject era and music, it should be considered a " must read " for those interested in American 20th Century Music.

One of the true heroes of popular American music. Johnny knew everybody and has a depth of understanding and experience of the Black musical scene (and isn't all American music ultimately Black music?) that is unsurpassed. He's the only Black man I know of whose parents were Greek. I love this guy and love this book.