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Biographies & Memoirs

Explore the stories of remarkable lives in our Biographies & Memoirs section at Thryft. Discover firsthand accounts of influential figures and captivating memoirs that'll inspire and educate. Our collection is carefully curated to ensure you find the perfect narrative to delve into.
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Song: A Guide to Style and Literature
Just Arrived
Carol Kimball | Islander Group Inc

Song: A Guide to Style and Literature

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$9.90

If you love vocal music or want to understand the world behind recital repertoire, this feels like a trusted companion. Readers would appreciate how it brings together composers, styles, and national traditions in one accessible volume without feeling dry. It’s especially rewarding for singers, pianists, and curious listeners who want a clearer sense of how art song fits into literature and performance.
The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966
Bob Dylan

The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

If you're a Dylan aficionado or a fan of rock history, "The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966" is a treasure trove of memorabilia that takes you back to the times when Dylan was redefining music. It's an intimate glimpse into the artist's journey, amplified by rare photographs and reproductions of handwritten lyrics. You'll feel closer to the legend himself with every page.
The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music
Dave Grohl | Dey Street Books

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$18.90

54% off est. retail
If you've ever hummed along to a Foo Fighters anthem or tapped your foot to a Nirvana beat, Dave Grohl delivers that same energy in "The Storyteller." This book isn't just another celebrity memoir—it's a backstage pass to the heart and soul of a rock icon. Imagine sitting down with Grohl as he regales you with stories ranging from his humble beginnings to stardom, all penned with genuine passion and a touch of that rock 'n' roll spirit.
Hark: How Women Listen
Alice Vincent | Canongate Books

Hark: How Women Listen

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you've ever felt swept away by the constant noise of life, "Hark: How Women Listen" may speak volumes to you. Alice Vincent shares a journey that begins with a baby's heartbeat and expands into an exploration of sound and listening. This book is not just about the auditory experience; it delves into the emotional and societal layers of what women hear daily. It’s for those who want to tune into life's quieter messages and find solace in the sounds that often go unnoticed.
Tina Turner: My Love Story: The Autobiography
Deborah Davis, Tina Turner, Dominik Wichmann  | Penguin Random House

Tina Turner: My Love Story: The Autobiography

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90

57% off est. retail
If you've ever found inspiration in stories of triumph and persistence, Tina Turner's "My Love Story" might just become a cherished addition to your bookshelf. It's not just a tale of musical stardom, but a raw and personal narrative of overcoming adversity. Turner's voice emanates a powerful blend of vulnerability and strength, making her life story as captivating as her music. This book promises to be more than a memoir; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
The Music Room
William Fiennes | Pan Macmillan

The Music Room

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$9.90

57% off est. retail
"The Music Room" offers more than just a narrative; it's a soul-stirring voyage through familial bonds and personal growth. If you’ve ever felt the weight of family responsibility or the desire to truly comprehend a loved one, this book's delicate and poetic exploration of these themes will resonate with you. Its ability to capture the complexities of human consciousness and the endurance of love makes for a truly immersive reading experience.
The Soundtrack of My Life
Anthony DeCurtis, Clive Davis  | Simon & Schuster

The Soundtrack of My Life

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$11.90

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the thought of delving into the heart of the music industry, Clive Davis's 'The Soundtrack Of My Life' might just be your backstage pass. This book is a must-read because it's not just about the hits and the stars; it's a personal narrative that weaves through the tapestry of modern music, as told by a man who's been a key player in shaping its course. For anyone fascinated by the stories behind the songs and the business of making musical legends, this memoir offers an intimate glimpse into a world few get to see.
The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination
Daniel J. Boorstin | Vintage Books

The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$11.90

76% off est. retail
This is a great read if you love big, idea-rich nonfiction that makes art feel alive across centuries. Boorstin connects giants like Homer, Picasso, and Woolf into one flowing story, so you get both vivid lives and the larger evolution of creativity itself. It feels like a guided tour through the minds that shaped culture, without losing the wonder of how art emerges from its time.
Shine the Screenplay
Jan Sardi | New York: Grove,

Shine the Screenplay

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$10.90

"Shine the Screenplay" could resonate with you if you're drawn to stories of creative genius grappling with personal struggles. It's a window into David Helfgott's life, showing how closely brilliance and hardship can intertwine, and it provides an intimate look at the sacrifices and perseverance behind a gifted musician's career. This screenplay will offer an especially vivid experience if you're attuned to the powerful interplay of music and emotion.
The Art of the Straight Line: My Tai Chi
Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed  | Harperone

The Art of the Straight Line: My Tai Chi

$20.90

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$20.90

55% off est. retail
If you've ever felt intrigued by the grace of Tai Chi and the mindfulness it fosters, this book could unfold like a serene journey for you. Imagine the magnetic combination of Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson's artistic energies, guiding you through an exploration of balance and harmony. It's an invitation to infuse their creative spirit into your own practice of presence and movement.
BTS: Icons of K-Pop
Adrian Besley | Michael O'mara Books

BTS: Icons of K-Pop

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

61% off est. retail
If you've ever been curious about the meteoric rise of BTS, this book dives deep into their story, painting a picture of seven boys who transformed into international icons. It's a celebration of their talent, tenacity, and the bond they share with ARMY, making it a read that not only fans but anyone interested in the power of music and persistence will find inspiring.
Janis Pa
Janis Joplin | Simon & Schuster Pb

Janis Pa

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$11.90

If you're a fan of raw, powerful voices in music or are intrigued by the personal stories behind famous figures, "Janis" is a must-read. Diving into this book is like stepping into Janis Joplin's world, revealing her heart and soul as well as the highs and lows of her life. It's a personal invitation to understand the woman behind the rock icon.
In the Pleasure Groove: Love, Death, and Duran Duran
Nigel John Taylor | Plume

In the Pleasure Groove: Love, Death, and Duran Duran

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

74% off est. retail
If Duran Duran's music was part of your life's soundtrack, "In the Pleasure Groove" is a resonant backstage pass. John Taylor brings you into the heart of the '80s music scene with candidness and wit. It's not just about the band; it's a personal journey through fame and its challenges that might make you hear their songs anew.
Unbreak My Heart
Toni Braxton | It Books

Unbreak My Heart

$20.90 $16.90 19% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$20.90 $16.90 19% off

61% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the raw honesty of a life laid bare, Toni Braxton's "Unbreak My Heart" might resonate with you. It's not just a habitual celebrity tell-all; it's a hopeful narrative that interweaves Braxton's uphill battle against personal and health challenges with her journey toward healing and self-forgiveness. Her openness about her struggles, especially about her son's autism and her own health, could offer a sense of kinship and inspiration.
Rod: The Autobiography
Rod Stewart | Crown Archetype

Rod: The Autobiography

$20.90 $10.90 48% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$20.90 $10.90 48% off

74% off est. retail
If you've ever hummed a Rod Stewart hit or tapped your foot to the beat of "Maggie May," his autobiography is your backstage pass to the man behind the music. It's a personal tour, narrated with the charm you'd expect from such a legendary figure. Diving into Rod's memoir, you get all the rock 'n' roll highs and lows, infused with the same raw energy found in his songs.
Roadie: My Life on the Road with Coldplay
Greg Parmley, Matt McGinn  | Portico

Roadie: My Life on the Road with Coldplay

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

81% off est. retail
Ever wondered what it's like behind the scenes of a world-famous band's tour? "Roadie" gives you that all-access pass into Coldplay's universe, through the eyes of someone who's been in the thick of it—Matt McGinn. Imagine the adrenaline, the mishaps, the camaraderie, and yes, the beer, as you absorb tales that only a true roadie could tell. It's a personal journey across continents, through highs and lows, setting up the magic before the lights go up. This book might just become your backstage ticket.
Harry Styles: The Making of a Modern Man
Sean Smith | Harpercollins

Harry Styles: The Making of a Modern Man

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

68% off est. retail
Whether you’ve been singing along to Harry’s catchy tunes since his One Direction days or you’ve admired his bold steps in fashion and film, this biography composed by Sean Smith offers a deep dive into the life of a charismatic trendsetter. It’s not just about his music or the fame; it's about understanding the journey of a man who's redefining modern masculinity and inspiring kindness along the way. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on how a beloved celebrity can influence a positive change in society, this is your read.
Deborah Harry: The Biography
Cathay Che | André Deutsch

Deborah Harry: The Biography

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

If you've ever found yourself mesmerized by the punk rock scene or caught humming a Blondie tune, this biography is your backstage pass to the life of Deborah Harry. You'll be enthralled by her journey from the edgy streets of New York to international fame, and if Madonna's admiration means anything to you, then this unvarnished tribute to a true icon of cool won't disappoint. Dive into the depth of an era-defining star's experiences, straight from the source – it's almost like having coffee with Deborah herself.
18 and Life on Skid Row
Sebastian Bach | Dey Street Books

18 and Life on Skid Row

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

If you've ever wondered about the highs and pitfalls of rock 'n' roll fame, Sebastian Bach's "18 and Life on Skid Row" takes you on that very journey. Imagine the glitz of massive success and the grit of personal battles, all recounted with the candidness and flamboyance that only a rocker like Bach could deliver. It's a ride through music history with the charisma of a man who’s lived it full throttle.
Rod: The Autobiography
Rod Stewart | Century

Rod: The Autobiography

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

If you're charmed by the idea of a rock 'n' roll journey seen through the eyes of a raspy-voiced icon, Rod's autobiography delivers. His narrative is akin to a lively pub chat – candid, humorous, and peppered with the highs and lows of fame. It's a personal invitation to the backstage of Stewart's life, where his authenticity shines as brightly as his stage presence. For music lovers and biography aficionados alike, it's a tune-filled trip down memory lane.
New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters
Nikki Van Noy | Touchstone

New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

If nostalgia is what you're craving, "New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters" will transport you right back to the height of 80s boy band mania. It's a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with NKOTB's rollercoaster story, told with raw honesty. Consider this book a backstage pass, now including the wisdom that comes with maturity and time. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the dynamics of famed pop phenomena, there's a heartfelt story here waiting to rekindle or ignite your affection for NKOTB.
Bohemian Rhapsody - The Inside Story : The Official Book of the Film - Thryft
Williams Owen | Carlton

Bohemian Rhapsody: The Inside Story

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.39

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

If you're a fan of Queen or intrigued by the magic of filmmaking, "Bohemian Rhapsody: The Inside Story" is a treasure trove of insights. It's not just a dive into Freddie Mercury's life but also a meticulous look at the craft of recreating history on film. As you flip through the pages filled with then-and-now comparisons, you'll appreciate the devotion to detail and thought behind each scene, deepening your admiration for the band and the movie alike.
Pocket Bowie Wisdom: Inspirational Words from a Rock Legend
Kajal Mistry, David Bowie, Hannah Roberts  | Hardie Grant Books (uk)

Pocket Bowie Wisdom: Inspirational Words from a Rock Legend

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

54% off est. retail
If you're a fan of the enigmatic David Bowie or simply in need of a quick surge of inspiration, this little treasure trove is for you. It distills the essence of Bowie's spirit into bite-sized quotes that will resonate with creatives and dreamers alike. Just flipping through the pages could ignite your own Stardust.
Blue All Rise: Our Story
Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan  | Hq

Blue All Rise: Our Story

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

If you've ever hummed along to a Blue tune, or found yourself reminiscing about the golden era of boybands, this tell-all memoir is your backstage pass to relive those times. The members of Blue offer an unfiltered look into their journey, from dizzying highs to challenging lows, giving you a sense of companionship with the stars who once adorned your bedroom walls. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a touch of maturity and reflection that might just rekindle your noughties spirit.
Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band
Arnaud Durieux, Murray Engleheart  | It Books

Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever been head-banging to "Back in Black" or felt the visceral pull of "Thunderstruck," this AC/DC biography is your backstage pass to the raucous world of a legendary band. It's a vivid tale that doesn't shy away from the grit and sweat that fueled their rise to rock immortality. This book will make you feel like you're part of the AC/DC family, giving you an all-access, unfiltered dive into their tumultuous and electrifying journey.
Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer
Chris Salewicz | Harpercollins Entertainment

Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

82% off est. retail
For fans of music history and punk culture, "Redemption Song" offers an insider's view into the life of Joe Strummer, the heart of The Clash. Imagine delving deep into the ethos of punk, guided by a friend who knew Strummer for over 25 years—this is the kind of authenticity and depth that makes the book stand out as a definitive biography. It's a tribute that goes beyond his music, highlighting the man who inspired a legion of rebels and dreamers.
Dolly : My Life and Other Unfinished Business - Thryft
Dolly Parton | Harpercollins

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

80% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the sparkle and wit of Dolly Parton, her autobiography "My Life and Other Unfinished Business" is as genuine as it gets. You'll find yourself wrapped in her honesty and humor, as she unveils the journey from her humble beginnings to becoming a country music icon. It’s a read that promises to be as endearing and memorable as Dolly herself, offering a down-to-earth perspective that might resonate with your own life's unfinished business.
Tupac Shakur Legacy
Jamal Joseph | Atria

Tupac Shakur Legacy

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.61

$12.90

If you're a fan of hip-hop or intrigued by influential cultural figures, "Tupac Shakur Legacy" will resonate with you. It's not just a biography; it's an interactive experience. With its blend of personal artifacts and touching family photos, this book offers an intimate glimpse into the soul of an artist who left an indelible mark on music and society.
Tribute to Her Majesty
Don; Lemoine, Serge Coolican | Windward/scott Publishing

Tribute to Her Majesty

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're someone who admires the British Monarchy, particularly the late Queen Elizabeth II, 'Tribute To Her Majesty' offers a rich, pictorial journey through her life. It's a fitting homage that encapsulates her legacy, encapsulated in a time capsule from 1986. This book offers a nostalgic and respectful exploration of her early years as Queen, her impact, and how she was perceived during her reign.
Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work
Arthur Frederick Hill, William Henry Hill, Alfred Ebsworth Hill  | Dover Publications

Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

51% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of music, history, and craftsmanship, "Antonio Stradivari" is a harmonious blend that hits all the right notes. It's a fascinating dive into the meticulous skills that positioned Stradivari's violins as unparalleled masterpieces. Reading it, you'll feel a step closer to understanding the enduring magic of these celebrated instruments.
101 Hymn Stories
Kenneth W. Osbeck | Kregel Publications

101 Hymn Stories

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

If you find solace in the hymns sung at church and wonder about the stories that gave birth to these timeless pieces, "101 Hymn Stories" by Kenneth W. Osbeck is for you. It's a journey through history, devotion, and the transformative power of music, offering insights that could deepen your experience during worship and personal reflection. Each hymn story is a testament to faith and the human condition, resonating with believers who cherish spiritual heritage and the art of worship through song.
Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco
Jason Webster | Black Swan

Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're feeling stuck in a routine, "Duende" might just be the escape you need. Jason Webster takes you on a riveting journey through Spain, rich with the raw passion and jeopardy of flamenco. It's more than a travel memoir; it's a story of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of ecstasy that could spark a fire in your own life.
5 Seconds of Summer : The Unauthorized Biography - Thryft
Joe Allan | Buster Books

5 Seconds of Summer : The Unauthorized Biography

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

85% off est. retail
5 Seconds of Summer: The Unauthorized Biography is a fascinating read for fans who want to understand the journey of the band members from posting videos on YouTube to securing international fame. The book gives a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of the four boys and their determination to create unique music and stand out from other boy bands. It's an inspiring story of hard work, talent, and perseverance.
The New Rolling Stone Album Guide
Christian Hoard, Rolling Stone Magazine, Nathan Brackett  | Fireside

The New Rolling Stone Album Guide

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$17.90

64% off est. retail
If you're someone who loves rock music and wants to delve deeper into the genre, "The New Rolling Stone Album Guide" could be an invaluable resource. This guide has been meticulously curated to not only rate albums but also to provide you with rich commentary and context, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of rock music's most celebrated works.
Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm
Gary Stewart | University Of Chicago Press

Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

79% off est. retail
If you're interested in the crossroads of culture, history, and music, "Breakout" is an insightful pick. It offers a window into the lives of African musicians navigating the complexities of international success while preserving their artistic authenticity. Their personal stories interweave with the socio-political landscape of Africa, shedding light on broader themes of cultural identity and the global music scene.
The Other Side of Nowhere - Thryft
Danniella Westbrook | Hodder Paperbacks

The Other Side of Nowhere

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

81% off est. retail
"The Other Side of Nowhere" is a candid and inspiring memoir of Danniella Westbrook, who fought back from the brink of death after succumbing to addiction. It is an intensely personal account of her struggle with cocaine and the eventual fallout that came with it, leading to a loss of career, family, friends, and her looks. She shares her complete story with complete honesty, detailing how she hit rock bottom and even called social services to take her son into care. The most unique and distinctive feature of this book is its powerful message of hope and redemption. It is highly recommended to anyone who wants to be inspired by a story of someone who refused to give up and overcame their demons.
C'mon, Get Happy: Fear and Loathing on the Partridge Family Bus - Thryft
David Cassidy | Grand Central Publishing

C'mon, Get Happy: Fear and Loathing on the Partridge Family Bus

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

82% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for anyone who loves behind-the-scenes stories of fame and music in the 70s. It is an honest and raw exploration of David Cassidy's life, including his rise to stardom and the challenges that came with it. With anecdotes about encounters with music legends and co-stars, as well as his personal relationships, this book provides a fascinating insight into the world of a young superstar. It's a captivating journey that will leave you entertained and reflective on the price of fame.
One Thing
J. Prince | Kingsway Communications Ltd

One Thing

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

84% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone seeking clarity and direction in their life. With insightful wisdom and practical advice, "One Thing" helps readers uncover their true purpose and empowers them to pursue success with confidence. J. Prince's inspiring words will guide you on a transformative journey, leading you to discover the one thing that will propel you towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. So, if you're ready to unlock your potential and make a positive impact, this book is a must-read!
Liszt: The Artist as Romantic Hero
Eleanor Perényi | Little Brown

Liszt: The Artist as Romantic Hero

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$11.90

86% off est. retail
This feels like more than a composer’s biography, it’s a portrait of Liszt as a dazzling cultural force and true Romantic icon. Readers who enjoy vivid lives full of artistic passion, celebrity, and ambition will find plenty to admire here. It likely appeals most to anyone curious about how brilliance, performance, and personality combined to make Liszt such a magnetic figure.
Ipod, Therefore I Am
Dylan Jones | Phoenix

Ipod, Therefore I Am

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$3.90

Imagine turning pages filled with the pulsating energy of revolutionary technology and a personal musical journey. Dylan Jones leads you through his life of eclectic music tastes, framing it around the transformative iPod revolution. It's not just about a device; it's a tribute to the way music threads through our lives, feeding souls with harmonies and rhythms that define eras. Rekindle your passion for music and technology's role in shaping it with 'iPod, Therefore I Am.'
Noel And Cole - The Sophisticates - Thryft
Stephen Citron | Oxford University Press

Noel And Cole - The Sophisticates

$7.90 $6.90 13% off

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$7.90 $6.90 13% off

90% off est. retail
Born an ocean apart--one in Peru, Indiana, to great wealth, the other in Teddington, England, to an itinerant piano salesman--Cole Porter and Noel Coward have come to represent the ultimate in sophistication and urbanity. "You Do Something to Me," Gay Divorce , "I Get a Kick Out of You," "JustOne of Those Things," Anything Goes , "Begin the Beguine," Private Lives , "Night and Day," Blithe Spirit , "Let's Do It," Hay Fever , "It's De-Lovely"--the list of witty and irreverent songs and plays goes on and on. It is a body of work that was tremendously exciting when it first appeared and remainsremarkably popular today.Based on access to previously unpublished manuscripts, lyrics, scores and letters, plus dozens of interviews, Noel and Cole presents a fresh and often surprising portrait of these two geniuses and their work, packed with numerous photographs, some of which have never been published before.Stephen Citron interweaves the biographical strands with consummate skill, providing insight into both men's private lives--including a frank discussion of their homosexuality--while illuminating their musical achievements. Indeed Citron, a composer and lyricist himself, excels at musical analysis,and throughout the volume he sheds considerable light on Porter's and Coward's art. He tells us, for instance, that in composing the melody of "Night and Day," Cole Porter restricted himself to mid-range notes, with hardly any vocal leaps that would betray a breathless dancer, especially as thedancer was Fred Astaire, who had never studied singing seriously, and was just launching his solo career. (Citron also tells us that Astaire wanted "Night and Day" dropped from the show, because he feared that with its long-held notes, especially on the word "day," his voice would crack.) Citronalso shows how fast a worker Noel Coward could Coward wrote Hay Fever in three days, for instance, and his finest play, Private Lives , took him four days (while he was laid low with a bout of influenza in Shanghai).Packed with information, including a quintuple chronology and a fifty-page section devoted to the analysis of selected songs, Noel and Cole will be an essential reference as well as a fascinating dual biography of two men who brought style and dazzle to the art of popular entertainment.
Elton John: The Biography
David Buckley | Andre Deutsch

Elton John: The Biography

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you’re a fan of Elton John's music or intrigued by the impact of cultural icons, this biography will resonate with you. David Buckley offers an in-depth look into Elton’s life, highlighting how he’s changed the music industry and championed for LGBTQ rights and AIDS awareness. It’s a compelling read that intertwiece his artistic achievements with his personal struggles and societal contributions.
Killing Yourself to Live: 85% of a True Story
Chuck Klosterman | Scribner

Killing Yourself to Live: 85% of a True Story

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

If you find yourself drawn to the crossroads of music, mortality, and the open road, Klosterman's journey will resonate with you. It's not just a pilgrimage to the shrines of rock 'n' roll's departed; it's an introspective dive into what makes us tick, clad in the familiar, worn jacket of pop culture. Klosterman's witty and candid narrative might just spark your own philosophical road trip, even if it's only in the mind.
Sinatra - Ol' Blue Eyes Remember
David Hanna | Bell

Sinatra - Ol' Blue Eyes Remember

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.1

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If Frank Sinatra's music was part of your world, this biography brings him closer. You'll find yourself immersed in the stories and perspectives of those who knew Ol' Blue Eyes personally. It bridges a connection to the icon that feels both intimate and tangible, giving you a seat at the table of Sinatra's extraordinary life.
Bogart - Movie Icons
Paul Duncan, James Ursini  | Taschen America Llc

Bogart - Movie Icons

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

If you're a fan of the Golden Age of Hollywood, then this visual biography of Humphrey Bogart is waiting for you on the shelves. With around 150 photographs, it's not just your traditional read; it's a walk down memory lane accompanied by crisp anecdotes and a concise introduction to the man behind the legend. Perfect if you want to delve into the glamour and the grit of Bogart's era.
Amazing Grace: Gift Edition - Thryft
Kenneth W. Osbeck | Kregel Publications

Amazing Grace: Gift Edition

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

86% off est. retail
Amazing Grace could be a good read for those who are interested in knowing the backstory behind some of the most beloved hymns. The book is a collection of 28 hymn stories wherein the author highlights the greatness of God and the depth of His grace through ordinary people. The book presents inspiring accounts of people who have communicated God's love through hymns. If you're someone who enjoys music and lyrics that uplift your spirit, this book is worth picking up.
Pioneers of Rock and Roll: 100 Artists Who Changed the Face of Rock
Harry Sumrall | Bpi Communications

Pioneers of Rock and Roll: 100 Artists Who Changed the Face of Rock

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

If you're passionate about the roots of modern music, "Pioneers of Rock and Roll" is an essential read. Harry Sumrall offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and legacies of the 100 artists who laid the foundation for the rock genre. It's like time-traveling through the hallways of rock's evolution, meeting the architects of sound that still resonate today.
Tchaikovsky - 1840-1893
Van Splunteren/Burret, Productions Todtri, Jeroen Koolbergen  | Smithmark Publishers

Tchaikovsky - 1840-1893

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

65% off est. retail
If stirring symphonies and enthralling ballets thrill you, Jeroen Koolbergen's biographical glance at Tchaikovsky is a must-read. Peeling back the curtain on the composer's dramatic existence, it's an intimate waltz through his passionate creations and personal struggles. Feel the resonance of 19th-century Russia and the heartbeats behind timeless music.
Memoirs of a DJ: Life in Progress
Vernetta Lopez | Marshall Cavendish International (asia)

Memoirs of a DJ: Life in Progress

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$8.26

If you've ever been curious about the beats and rhythms of a DJ's life beyond the turntables, "Memoirs of a DJ: Life in Progress" offers a candid and engaging journey. Vernetta Lopez spins a personal narrative filled with passion, challenges, and the evolution of a DJ's career that'll resonate with anyone who appreciates music or is intrigued by the entertainment industry. This book isn't just a playlist of events; it's a reflection on growth and identity set to the soundtrack of a dynamic profession.
Ravel: The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
David Burnett James | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Ravel: The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If Elgar's music has ever stirred your soul, Burnett James' "Ravel" is a journey you'd enjoy taking. As England's late romantic gem, Elgar's symphonic narratives and ceremonial compositions not only defined an era but also became intrinsic to cultural heritage. Reading this, you'll get to revel in the stories behind the music that's likely graced many poignant moments in your life.

Dive Into Real-Life Stories

Biographies and memoirs offer unparalleled insights into the lives and minds of individuals who've shaped our world. Be it political icons, celebrities, or unsung heroes, Thryft brings you a rich assortment of stories that reveal extraordinary experiences and life lessons. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the personal tales that have influenced history and culture.