About Books on The Root
2009
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There's nothing like the marriage between literature and music. For that reason, this Reading List edition highlights titles that combine the best of both worlds.
Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne
By James Gavin
Although she led a fairly illustrious career, Lena Horne's behind-the-scenes world was a tumultuous one marked by racism, failed marriages, painful childhood, the loss of her son, and ideological conflicts. The comprehensive biography seeks to humanize the glamorous singer, and in doing so, provides explanations for why, for almost a decade, she has chosen to no longer engage with the public.
To Be or Not To Bop
By Dizzy Gillespie with Al Fraser
Father of bepop John Birks Gillespie's 1979 autobiography has been reissued to recall the incredible life and musical contributions of America's treasured trumpet virtuoso.
Unsigned Hype
By Booker T. Mattison
The debut novel by video director and filmmaker captures the idealistic dreams but opposing realities of a teenage musician who wants to be the next big hip hop star.
It's Just Begun: The Epic Journey of DJ Disco Wiz, Hip Hop's First Latino DJ
By Luis "DJ Disco Wiz" Cedeno and Ivan Sanchez
The memoir of the Mighty Force crew member chronicles his participation in hip hop's development alongside Grandmaster Caz, his dramatic turn toward drugs, violence, and jail, and his subsequent redemption.
Also check out:
"On Michael Jackson," a critical, yet sympathetic look at the icon.
Farai Chideya's rock-n-roll novel "Kiss the Sky."
Comments
"Lush Life: A Biography of Billy Strayhorn" by David Hadju. It is equal parts story of a intelligent, creative composer, a major partner in the Ellington orchestra and a black homosexual in a time when such a thing was considered taboo. The end of the book can still bring me to tears.