Jazz On The Page
Jazz has a rich history in book form. Here are a few books we like.
Straight Life by Art and Laurie Pepper: Not just the most compelling jazz autobiography ever written, but one of the most compelling autobiographies, period. If you read one book on this list, make it this one.
Miles by Miles Davis: In his autobiography, Miles gives us a frank and no-holds-barred look at his life in music, and the challenges of his personal life. An important book by one of the most influential figures in 20th century music.
Coming Through Slaughter by Michael Ondaatje: This quasi-historical account of the life of jazz progenitor Buddy Bolden is a brilliant work of literature and a fascinating look at life in turn-of-the-century New Orleans.
Thelonious Monk: The Life And Times Of An American Original by Robin DG Kelly: Monk is one of the most enigmatic figures in jazz, but Kelly manages to pull back the curtain without dispelling any of the wonder at Monk’s music.
What are some of your favorites? Let us know in the comments.
