If you’re an indie/alt rock fan you probably know the music and artists to listen to, the concerts to attend, the T-Shirts to buy but do you know what books you should be reading? If not, then don’t fear, I have the perfect book selection so that you can become a fully fledged music lover and more importantly become THAT indie fan.
Uncommon People: The Rise and Fall of the Rock Stars, David Hepworth
This will give you a great depth of rock and indie knowledge, it covers the golden era of alternative rock music, from the arrival of guitar aristocracy such as Jimmi Hendrix and Eric Clapton to the original singer of ‘Cry Baby’ Janis Joplin. Hepworth’s deep-dive into the world of rock up until the present day will make you feel like you know everything you need to (because you will!)
Our Noise: The Story of Merge Records, the Indie Label That Got Big and Stayed Small, John Cook
Based in Durham, North Carolina, Merge Records is an independent record label that signed some of the biggest names in contemporary indie music such as Mike Krol, Hiss Golden Messenger and Archers of Loaf. This biography on one of the most successful alternative labels of all time covers its beginnings signing unknown artists to having records reaching the top of the Billboard charts.
Rip it Up and Start Again, Simon Reynolds
This covers the post-punk years, in regard to musical eras and genres. Forget Nancy Spungen, Sid Vicious and Johnny Rotten (no matter how hard it is to do so), this book explores a time for alternative music that we should all be aware of, packed full of anecdote, inspiration and insight. The book features the likes of Talking Heads and Joy Division and, in my opinion, is one of the most eclectic and unique books on contemporary music to be written in recent years.
Cult Rockers, Ted Lathrop & Wayne Jancik
Left field, offbeat, bohemian, anarchic, whatever you want to call it, this book gives a fascinating insight into some of the most peculiar and bizarre artistic visions upheld by some lesser known, non-mainstream, distinctive indie and rock artists. The book champions 150 Rock and Indie trailblazers who deserve a place in their own special hall of fame. From The Grateful Dead to The Dead Kennedy’s and Lou Reed, you will thank this book for giving you a distinctive musical education and becoming a well-fleshed ‘dead-head’.
How to Be a Rock Star, David Ambrose & Lesley-Ann Jones
Last but by no means least is this memoir by the former Head of EMI, David Ambrose, and acclaimed music journalist, Lesley-Ann Jones. Ambrose’s own unique perspective as a rock musician recording with the likes of Rod Stewart, to his transition in A&R where he signed the likes of Duran Duran and The Sex Pistols. Thus, intertwined with Lesley-Ann Jones’ musical expertise and friendships with the likes of Freddie Mercury and The Rolling Stones makes for one of the most riveting musical reads you will ever experience.
All of these books have been compiled by expert music journalists and industry professionals, they build on their experiences working with some of the best indie and rock artists in the business. They will inform you on everything from record labels to backstage bust-ups and will allow you to get to know the real rockers behind the records.
Words by Cory Gourley