Temples of Sound: Inside the Great Recording Studios
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • +1/2 -- Fails to deliver on its excellent thematic promise
  • It's a FUN Read
  • Those were the days
  • It's OK, not great
  • Really interesting!
Temples of Sound: Inside the Great Recording Studios
William Clark , Jim Cogan , and Quincy Jones
Manufacturer: Chronicle Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0811833941

Book Description

All great music has a birthplace. Temples of Sound tells the stories of the legendary studios where musical genius and a magical space came together to capture some of the most exciting jazz, pop, funk, soul, and country records ever made. From the celebrated Southern studios of Sun and Stax, to the John Coltrane/Miles Davis sessions in producer Rudy Van Gelder’s living room, to Frank Sinatra’s swinging cuts at state-of-the-art Capitol Records, each of the 15 profiles in this book brings great music to life at the moment of its creation. With a trove of never-before-seen photographs and fascinating, all-new interviews with the musicians and producers who made the records, Temples of Sound is a rich inspiration for music fans.

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars +1/2 -- Fails to deliver on its excellent thematic promise.......2005-05-12

The book's stated theme, "inside the great recording studios," is a tantalizing one. Unfortunately the authors rarely deliver the reader inside the temples themselves. Instead, they spend an inordinate amount of text rehashing introductory material about artists, songs, labels, musical genres and scenes. It's not necessarily uninteresting, but it leaves readers in the lobby, rather than actually taking them into the studio.

Worse, the writing is hugely uneven. The chapter on Atlantic is just that, a chapter on the Atlantic label, with tidbits about the studios they used. The chapter on Columbia, on the other hand, does a nice job of communicating the label's producers' emotional attachment to their studios. The text itself ranges from well-written to hyperbolic ("It is indisputable: there is no one label that had as much impact on the development of rock from the 1950s to the 1970s as Chess.") and overly clever ("Everyone wanted in, and the [Chess] brothers, refashioned as record men, kept adding more pawns to the Chess set.").

What this book does accomplish is a grounding of hit songs at their physical points of creation. It untangles the juxtaposition of Top-40 radio and strips away the music industry's placelessness by re-contextualizing songs with the writers, producers, engineers and musicians who created them. Who knew that Eric Clapton's "Layla" was recorded in Florida, within the same studios that reverberated with Hank Ballard's "The Twist," The Eagles' "Hotel California," and The Bee Gees "How Deep is Your Love?"

The book's photos provide intimate views of studios in use (not to mention, under construction), it's a shame that the accompanying text isn't as fully detailed on the technical and artistic inner-workings of these "temples of sound."

5 out of 5 stars It's a FUN Read.......2005-01-25

With all the documentaries out there today, it's sometimes easy to forget the expression "The Joy of Music". Thankfully, Mr. Clark stays away from trying to overanalyze every note and decision, and at times delights in the instantaneous, spur of the moment happenings that create great hits. (ie.,How the song Hold On, I'm Coming by Sam & Dave was written in about 30 minutes by Isaac Hayes! Will never hear that song the same way again.)

Each chapter is devoted to one particular studio, and some of the giants who recorded there, what gave the studio that particular sound, but more often than not, what accidental happening's created the soundtrack to so many of our lives.

With each studio covered in only a chapter, there are probably thousand's of untold stories that go along with each studio, however once again Mr. Clark hits on the highlights, and does a good job of figuring out what the reader really wants to know.

After reading a chapter, found myself pulling out various cd's of the respective studio's and enjoying them all over again.

4 out of 5 stars Those were the days.......2003-12-30

"Temples of Sound" is an interesting and inspiring look at some popular American recording studios, mostly from the late 1950s and early 60s, but with a few nods to the later sixties and early 70s. (Sorry, no British studios. Abbey Road, Olympic, and Trident spring to mind - anyone want to write one?) Each chapter picks a particular studio (Sun, Chess, Motown, Western, Columbia, etc.) and gives a brief overview of its history (down to the present day; alas many of the studios no longer exist), its features, and the people who made it special, both artists and engineers. Indeed, the authors have interviewed a number of studio owners and engineers, which adds much to the text. The book certainly succeeds in being evocative - these were the days when echo chambers could be someone's bathroom, when everything was recorded on glorious analog tape, when most basic tracks were done live all in the same room with sonic leakage, and cigarette smoking in the studio was glamorous. Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, John Coltrane, the Doors, and other greats make walk-on appearances, and there are good photographs of many of them at work. (Actually, I could have used even more photos.) The book also rescues from relative obscurity one Bill Putnam, who apparently designed many of the sweetest-sounding rooms in the country. Often there are anecdotes about the history of studio owners and their labels, which are interesting, though one might hope for even more anecdotes about the artists and recording sessions. I found myself wishing for a little bit more technical information too, about how each room was set up and what specific gear they had, though some of this is mentioned briefly. And, of course, they can't cram every studio in here - for instance, there is no chapter on Muscle Shoals. However, the book ends with a nice discography of tracks to hunt down and listen to, each associated with one of the studios, and all of which I want to listen to after reading about these places' heydays. I find this book fascinating for what it does tell us, and inspiring in its depiction of an era when artistic talent, engineering skill, and human warmth made sometimes low-tech rooms into hallowed cathedrals of sound. A good gift for anyone interested in recording, or in the 50s-60s period.

3 out of 5 stars It's OK, not great.......2003-09-23

I just can't muster the enthusiasm of other reviewers for this book. Perhaps most interesting and informative are the stories of how some of the best recordings of the golden days of analog were made on a shoe string, over garages on third hand equipment. There are some insights into what made some of the studios sound unique.

The early chapters dwell lovingly on some details of the lives of the produces, engineers and some of the artists. But by the end the facts are marshaled and rushed past, leaving the reader with the distinct impression that they were included so as not to offend some egos or just to drop some names. In some cases the fact that the producers were flat out ignorant of music, rather unlikable individuals and driven by the Wall-Street motives of fear and greed are all too clear, but left between the lines.

All in all the book it left me with more questions than answers about the recording process. A decent compendium of facts about who did what when and where with a smattering of favorite artists and a few pictures to keep pop audiences happy. The authors are weakest when the crass business of the music industry intrudes into their picture of the studio as a crucible of pop art. I'd rather have more detail (even if it hurts) about a few studios or a focus on just a few top engineers and specific recording sessions.

5 out of 5 stars Really interesting!.......2003-07-26

Great book, especially after recently seeing the movie, "Standing in the Shadows of Motown." A must-read for any musicologist, especially one who grew up with all of these tunes blasting from the car radio on WKNR, WXYZ and CKLW back in the 60's. And I was AMAZED by the Rudy Van Gelder story, being a fan of traditional jazz (Coltrane, et al.)

Even you fans who weren't yet born when some of these stars had already begun passing away will appreciate the "inside stories" behind much of the music you still hear today.
A Quincy Jones
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A.Quincy Jones
  • Timeless Modernism
A Quincy Jones
Cory Buckner
Manufacturer: Phaidon Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0714840742

Book Description

Archibald Quincy Jones (1913-79) was a Los Angeles-based architect and educator who shared the Case Study goal of reinventing the house as a way of redefining the way people lived in post-war America. A pioneer in 'greenbelt' planning and 'green' design, Jones raised the level of the tract house in California from the simple stucco box to a structure of beauty and logic surrounded by gardens and integrated into the landscape. He introduced new materials and also a new way of living within the built environment, and his work bridged the gap between custom-built and developer-built homes. The exquisite detailing and siting of Jones's houses, churches, civic and university buildings make them quintessential embodiments of mid-century American architecture. This is the first book published on Jones. It documents his full career, from his post-war planning projects to his long association with Palo Alto building magnate Joseph Eichler. The book is comprised of two parts: a substantial introductory

essay tracing Jones's life and career, with a summary of key projects and his contributions to planning; and a catalogue of sixty of Jones's projects illustrated with high-quality black-and-white period photographs, and plans and renderings by Jones.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A.Quincy Jones.......2002-10-24

It is easy to dismiss the work of Quincy Jones (1913-79) as modernism lite. His long association with Joseph Eichler and other suburban builders prevented him from being taken as seriously as more rigorous and rebellious peers. Modern architecture is supposed to be challenging; Jones made it look easy. However, a drive around Crestwood Hills in West LA, and a close examination of the model houses he and others designed for that enlightened housing association, engender a new respect. Pragmatic, inventive, and humane, Jones bridged the chasm between high art and popular taste, emphasizing practicality over ideology. Buckner has hands-on experience, having restored four Jones houses, and one wishes she had expanded her brief introduction to the architect's career to communicate her personal enthusiasm for his unshowy brilliance. In every other way, this is an admirable survey of 65 key projects, illustrated with vintage black and white photos, drawings and plans.

4 out of 5 stars Timeless Modernism.......2002-06-05

Let me begin by saying that this is a beautiful book. The original black and white photos are as crisp as the planar fascias and walls of Jones' many projects represented here. The graphics, (mostly plans and perspective renderings) are reproduced in a sepia tone that wonderfully invokes the spirit of the post WW2 period. And, in this age of neo-modernism, it is great to be exposed to a talented, true modernist whose architecture was not influenced by the latest fads and trends, but by the architect's deep convictions of modern architecture improving the quality of life.

The book contains a short essay and a catalogue of about 65 of Jones (and his partner Frederick Emmons) projects. The projects are shown chronologically in seven categories: Single-Family Houses; Residential Housing Developments; Churches; Commercial Spaces; Civic Spaces; University Buildings; and Planning Work.

The essay entitled Building for Better Living: The Architecture of A. Quincy Jones, is however, disappointingly brief. Although it begins in a biographical format, it moves quickly into Jones' theories on multi and single-family residential development. It then discusses Jones' design methods and uses of materials, and concludes abruptly with Earth Structures & Energy Systems and Planning & Landscape Designs. Very little is mentioned in regard to his practice and the fact that Jones and Emmons were awarded national AIA Firm of the Year in 1969. The essay makes no mention when and how Jones died.

Jones' plans are a work of art, not just graphically, but in regards to the rigor in which he was able to make space and structure flow and integrate his buildings into the California landscape. It is unfortunate that only about a third of the projects in this book contain plans. Still, there are some stunning projects represented here. I highly recommend this book to the serious student of mid-century modernism.
Q: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Wonderful!!
  • Outstanding
  • WoW
  • Not A Enjoyable Book..
  • Q is The Dude!!
Q: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones
Manufacturer: Harlem Moon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0767905105
Release Date: 2002-10-08

Amazon.com

He reached an apogee of fame in the mid-1980s as the producer-arranger of Michael Jackson's blockbuster album Thriller and the charity single "We Are the World," but Quincy Jones has been a force in American music since he was a teenager. He swung hard enough to play with beboppers like Dizzy Gillespie; he studied composition with the legendary Nadia Boulanger; he scored dozens of films and TV shows; he arranged and/or produced albums for everyone from Frank Sinatra to Leslie Gore, and rappers like Melle Mel don't disdain the old man either. Looking back at age 68 in a good-natured autobiography supplemented with brief chapters by such friends as Ray Charles and ex-wife Peggy Lipton, Jones asserts, "I've been driven all my life by a spirit of adventure and a criminal level of optimism." Given his beginnings, growing up poor in Chicago and Seattle with a mentally ill mother lurking in the background, that's quite an achievement. Jones never stood still long enough to let sorrow catch him, and though his treatment of his personal life is standard Hollywood glib ("Though Nastassja [Kinski]'s and my relationship as a couple was not destined to last, she is a great friend"), his prose catches fire when it touches on music: Dinah Washington "could take the melody in her hand, hold it like an egg, crack it open, fry it, let it sizzle, reconstruct it, put the egg back in the box and back in the refrigerator, and you would've still understood every single syllable." His furious energy may have been fueled by personal demons, but his joyous sweep through a half century of American pop convinces you that Jones was right to keep moving: "Nothing is ever wrong if it's going someplace," he asserts. "Music is about ever-changing." --Wendy Smith

Book Description

Musician, composer, producer, arranger, and pioneering entrepreneur Quincy Jones has lived large and worked for five decades alongside the superstars of music and entertainment -- including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Ray Charles, Will Smith, and dozens of others. Q is his glittering and moving life story, told with the style, passion, and no-holds-barred honesty that are his trademarks.

Quincy Jones grew up poor on the mean streets of Chicago’s South Side, brushing against the law and feeling the pain of his mother’s descent into madness. But when his father moved the family west to Seattle, he took up the trumpet and was literally saved by music. A prodigy, he played backup for Billie Holiday and toured the world with the Lionel Hampton Band before leaving his teens. Soon, though, he found his true calling, inaugurating a career whose highlights have included arranging albums for Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, and Count Basie; composing the scores of such films as The Pawnbroker, In Cold Blood, In the Heat of the Night, and The Color Purple, and the theme songs for the television shows Ironside, Sanford and Son, and The Cosby Show; producing the bestselling album of all time, Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and the bestselling single “We Are the World”; and producing and arranging his own highly praised albums, including the Grammy Award—winning Back on the Block, a striking blend of jazz, African, urban, gospel, and hip-hop. His musical achievements, in a career that spans every style of American popular music, have yielded an incredible seventy-seven Grammy nominations, and are matched by his record as a pioneering music executive, film and television producer, tireless social activist, and business entrepreneur–one of the most successful black business figures in America. This string of unbroken triumphs in the entertainment industry has been shadowed by a turbulent personal life, a story he shares with eloquence and candor.

Q is an impressive self-portrait by one of the master makers of American culture, a complex, many-faceted man with far more than his share of talents and an unparalleled vision, as well as some entirely human flaws. It also features vivid testimony from key witnesses to his journey–family, friends, and musical and business associates. His life encompasses an astonishing cast of show business giants, and provides the raw material for one of the great African American success stories of this century.


From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful!!.......2007-04-18

I was amazed at how good this book is. This book makes you want to know what's going to happen next. I never knew Quincy Jones had a hard childhood. I think I would rather starve than eat rats. I love the fact that Quincy doesn't just talk about music all the time but Quincy went deep into his personal life. I admire the fact that Quincy never gave up on his dream to become a trumpeter. I'm surprised at how successful Quincy is with all the problems he had. Reading this book inspires me to always follow my dreams, no matter what. I recommend this book BIG TIME to anyone interested in his life!

5 out of 5 stars Outstanding.......2007-03-09

I loved it! I'm learning the piano and thought I could learn something from the best. I learned more. I'm a big music lover and love Quincy and his music. He's worked with the best of the legends, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Billy Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Dina Washington, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson etc. etc. He's had an incredible life! And not without tragedy and set backs and overcame them all. His family is beautiful. How he forgave the sad and unfair things done to him. Tears and laughter, so moving, especially about his brother Lloyd. Quincy's my hero. I knew he was great, but he's more. I'm so grateful he shared his life with us. I learned so much! Let the Light heal the dark places, and listen to God's whispers is where I want to be. Thank you Quincy!

4 out of 5 stars WoW.......2006-12-04

I was extremely impressed. Scouting the library, I saw the book and I thought, Hey, this might be good. That night, I read 45 pages, with the school the following day: it was almost a priority. He really is a multi-talented fellow. Of his biggest accomplishment, (arguably, I mean besides his 29 Grammys) was Michael Jackson's Thriller album, but this guy can do anything. The stories are humble, the style down to earth and approachable, and above all, the stories were great. This isn't your ordinary 900 page presidential autobiography. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates autobiographies, truly something worth reading.

1 out of 5 stars Not A Enjoyable Book.........2006-01-12

Like all of the other singers and musicians, Quincy Jones should stick with music. But i guesse if you can write music you can write a book. I just found it pretty boring. Quincy does awesome music though.

If you liked this book check out all of Quincy Jones's Cds

5 out of 5 stars Q is The Dude!!.......2005-12-05

What an amazing life!! Never again will I say 'I can't do it!' From eating rats, stealing, getting in fights, having a mentally ill mother and generally a hard childhood, Quincy Jones found freedom and flight in music, becoming the genius he is today.

Discoverer of Patti Austin, James Ingram and The Brothers Johnson, he worked with the greats through the years; Dizzie Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Donna Summer to Kool Moe Dee.

He saw all the technological innovations through the ages, from the introduction of stereophonic sound, through moog synthesizers, to digital recordings and the internet. He also moved through all the music styles, from be bop to hip hop.

We learn how Frank Sinatra nicknamed him Q, and a little of the other side of ole blue eyes that hardly gets written about. How close he was to being at the party where the Sharon Tate murder took place. His brain surgeries, his nervous breakdown and recovery. Most of all, we learn what a large heart filled with love he has.

We are also taken behind the scenes of certain monumental recordings; `Off the wall' and `Thriller by Michael Jackson, and `We are the world' by USA for Africa, and the scoring of `The Colour Purple' to mention a few.

There are also chapters written by others who knew him; a childhood friend, some of his children, Ray Charles, two of his ex wives (he is still friends with all his ex wives), and especially his beloved brother Lloyd. Lloyd's final chapter moved me to tears.

There is an extensive discography, as well as list of awards (27 Grammys among them) received and honours given him.

This book is powerful beyond words. A true inspiration!
The Sinatra Treasures: Intimate Photos, Mementos, and Music from the Sinatra Family Collection
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Long time Sinatra Fan
  • The ultimate Sinatra book
  • Essential for every Sinatra fan
  • SINATRA TREASURES - A PERSONAL SCRAPBOOK
  • A Joyful Afternoon with Frank Sinatra
The Sinatra Treasures: Intimate Photos, Mementos, and Music from the Sinatra Family Collection
Charles Pignone , Frank Sinatra , and Quincy Jones
Manufacturer: Bulfinch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0821228374

Book Description

The first-ever collection from the archives of the legendary Chairman of the Board, filled with never-before-seen photos, letters, mementos, and more.

What is a legend? A legend is a man who, more than 65 years after stepping on stage for the first time, is still larger than life. A man who changed the way we wear our hats. A man possessed not of a voice, but The Voice. Frank Sinatra is a legend.

Created in conjunction with the Frank Sinatra Estate, THE SINATRA TREASURES tells the story of Sinatras life with rare and never-before-published quotes from those he loved and those he worked with--and from the Chairman of the Board himself. More than 200 black-and-white and full-color images from several Sinatra archives, as well as 30 removable facsimile reproductions of items, such as a script from one of his radio shows and a Sinatra family photo album, provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Sinatras world and talent. Also included is a new compilation CD of rare interviews, early radio appearances, and songs.

This celebration of the many elements of Frank Sinatra--as singer, as actor, as humanitarian, as friend--brings to life as never before the man who made the standards standard.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Long time Sinatra Fan.......2007-08-11

This is probably one of the most complete selections I have ever seen. Having been a Sinatra fan since the late 1940s, I have a lot of very fond memories of seeing him in person, first with the TD band, personal concerts, Old Gold Radio Show, and Your Hit Parade Radio show, plus many personal appearances in the Los Angeles area and Las Vegas. This book complements my own collection of Sinatra memorabelia. It's nice to read an authorized book about the kind of person he really was.

5 out of 5 stars The ultimate Sinatra book.......2007-06-10

Frank Sinatra was, in my opinion, the greatest entertainer of all time. I collect Sinatra recordings and books, and "The Sinatra Treasures" is probably the best Sinatra compilation I've ever seen. In addition to numerous interviews, Sinatra quotes and hundreds of rare photos, it also contains a collection of various Sinatra memorabilia pocketed throughout the book. There's a photo album of pictures from Sinatra early in his career, ticket stubs, a radio script, reproductions of programs from two presidential inaugurations that Sinatra performed at, and much more. There's also an audio CD containing clips from Sinatra interviews, radio appearances, monologues and a few rare recordings, including the version of "High Hopes" used to promote John Kennedy's presidential campaign.

This wonderful collection of Sinatra material sheds light on the numerous aspects of Frank's life as a performer, father and friend. All Sinatra fans should own a copy of this book. (When it was first released, the book retailed for about $75, so the current price is a real bargain. Snatch up your copies while you can!)

5 out of 5 stars Essential for every Sinatra fan.......2007-03-19

I couldn't believe when I stumbled upon this page that nobody had written a review yet! So I thought I would just add a few words of encouragement for anyone debating whether or not to order this book.

First of all, this book is more than a book. It contains a cd with some never before released songs and promos, pull-out dupicates of hand written letters, duplicates of photos from the Sinatra family albums, album covers of albums that were never produced, and so much more.

I purchased this book the week that it was released, for almost $50, and even at that price it was worth it. I see now that amazon is offering it for only $20! If I were you, I'd swoop up two! One to keep unopened, and one to open. It's that good of a book. If I had to recommend just one Sinatra book, I think this would be it. I like some others, like Nancy Sinatra's book, Tina Sinatra's book, and the DK book Sinatra, but this one is tops, especially because it contains so many rare items.

If you are a Sinatra fan, I whole heartedly recommend this book! Get one for you, and every other Sinatra lover in your family!

5 out of 5 stars SINATRA TREASURES - A PERSONAL SCRAPBOOK.......2007-03-10

I bought this book as a gift for my husband, who is an avid lifelong fan of Frank. He loves it, and so do I. It makes one feel like part of the family.

5 out of 5 stars A Joyful Afternoon with Frank Sinatra.......2006-09-01

Even if you are NOT a Sinatra fan you will truly enjoy "The Sinatra Treasures" written by Charles Pignone. The book is beautifully put together with page savers. When looking through the book, the cellophane envelopes holding the Sinatra mementos, make one feel as though one is going through a "family album", with fond memories of the various events throughout Mr. Sinatra's life. A marvelous "coffee table book", too, but you will pick it up and glance through the book and find yourself stopping to read the stories. This book was highly recommended to me and I pass that recommendation on to you.
Men of Color: Fashion, History, Fundamentals
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Rhonda Fleming
  • All I can say is -- WOW!
  • Men of Color - What a find
  • A Must Have for All Stylish Men
  • Men of Color: Fashion, History, Fundamentals
Men of Color: Fashion, History, Fundamentals
Lloyd Boston
Manufacturer: Artisan
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Book Description

Wonderful reviews and word-of-mouth helped make the hardcover edition of this title--a unique celebration of African-American male fashion and style--a best-seller. Essence called it "a testament to the creative spirit of Black men . . . filled with striking photographs of Black legends and insightful essays about the historical context of their apparel." With sleek photographs and a host of celebrity interviews, the special value hardcover edition captures the elegance of Nat King Cole, comfort of Bill Cosby, hip-hop style of LL Cool J, and sex appeal of Denzel Washington. Expert advice rounds out the "history of fabulous sartorial style" (Essence), showing readers how to accomplish the same looks on their own. This is a must-have for Black men--and the women who love them.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Rhonda Fleming.......2005-01-29

Lloyd Boston is totally awesome to have written this book. I stumbled upon this book while researching men's hats for a school research thesis. What I found was not only men and their hats, but historical detail about the Black man and his hat and who the man is with and without his headcovering. The sad thing at the time was that I had to return it to the library; but now that someone gave me a gift from Amazon.com, I am now purchasing this reference material, conversation piece This book a must have in my library and collection of fine art.

THANKS LLOYD BOSTON for sharing Men of Color: Fashion, History, and Fundamentals. And Thanks Amazon.com for allowing me to get it at an affordable price.

5 out of 5 stars All I can say is -- WOW!.......2000-06-03

This book is NOT a fashion book as the understated subtitle suggests. Instead, I am looking at a GALLERY of fine Black men throughout the ages with their "fashions" being very secondary.

This book is filled with WONDERFUL color and black and white photos of Black men -- famous and unknown, past and present. This book is monumentally political for it demonstrates why the Black man is loved, hated, feared, hunted, and reverenced throughout the world! This book is a job well-done.

4 out of 5 stars Men of Color - What a find.......2000-05-09

I thought the book was excellent. It artfully combines historical content with practical advice that any African American male can use. I always thought it took a lot of money to look great. But using this book as a guide definitely helped.

5 out of 5 stars A Must Have for All Stylish Men.......2000-04-15

This book is simply amazing. I received the book as a gift from my fiancee and have treasured this book ever since. First, the photographs are amazing, pleasant, and necessary reminders of the way stylish men of color have shaped style and fashion over the years. Second, there is the instructional aspect of the book that covers matters outside of clothing and which I can't say enough about. After reading the section of the book that dealt with hair and skin care, I was motivated to go buy shaving soap and shaving brush and dispense with the shaving gel. Thanks to Lloyd Boston and this book I have had the best shaving experiences of my life. I can't say how necessary this book is for the many black men who go through the drama of ingrown facial hair. I have less drama than most in that department, but I have still seen a remarkable improvement in my skin, as would any man after following the book's advice. The book even arms you with the necessary vocabulary to navigate your way around a men's shop with ease. There is even instructions on how to do the perfect shoe shine! And as Lloyd Boston points out, well-shined shoes are the best complement to any wardrobe. So,to sum up this book, it is NECESSARY! It is necessary for any stylish man and any man who strives to be so. It is more than worth the money.

5 out of 5 stars Men of Color: Fashion, History, Fundamentals.......2000-01-25

After reading and reading and reading Lloyd Boston's book "Men of Color: Fashion, Historyi, Fundamentals", I can honestly say that I LOVE THIS BOOK! It is a source of reference to me when I buy gifts for the special men in my life or when they are unsure of how to buy for themselves. It is a conversation piece with all who enter my home. We reminisce about the pictures and ooh and ahh over beauty held within the pictures. My favorite interview is when Mr. Boston speaks with Jesse Jackson on youth culture and fashion. Thanks to Mr.Boston for the picture of Tyson Beckford and the other fine men!
Quincy Jones from Q, with Love
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Quincy Jones from Q, with Love
    Quincy Jones
    Manufacturer: Alfred Publishing Company
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    GeneralGeneral | Instruments & Performers | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    SongbooksSongbooks | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    PopularPopular | Songbooks | Theory, Composition & Performance | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    PopularPopular | Musical Genres | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    RockRock | Musical Genres | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Music | Pop Culture | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
    jp-unknown1jp-unknown1 | Specialty Stores | Books
    ASIN: 076928244X

    Book Description

    26 songs - all of his most famous love songs, some recorded by Michael Jackson, James Ingram, Aretha Franklin. Featuring 4 new songs recorded by Tevin Campbell, Catero, Patti Austin, El Debarge.
    Q - The Autobiography Of Quincy Jones
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Q - The Autobiography Of Quincy Jones
      Quincy Jones
      Manufacturer: Doubleday
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover
      ASIN: B000HKJNZQ
      Men of Color: Fashion, History, and Fundamentals
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Our Men - Generations of Style, Class and Pizzazz!
      • Perfect Gift for the Guy That Has It All
      Men of Color: Fashion, History, and Fundamentals
      Lloyd Boston
      Manufacturer: Artisan
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

      African AmericanAfrican American | Regional | History & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      Textile & CostumeTextile & Costume | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Fashion | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      Beauty & FashionBeauty & Fashion | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books | Cosmetics | General | Hair | Skin Care
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      African-American StudiesAfrican-American Studies | Special Groups | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. Make Over Your Man: The Woman's Guide to Dressing Any Man in Her Life Make Over Your Man: The Woman's Guide to Dressing Any Man in Her Life
      2. Dressing the Man: Mastering the Art of Permanent Fashion Dressing the Man: Mastering the Art of Permanent Fashion

      ASIN: 1579651674

      Book Description

      Wonderful reviews and word-of-mouth helped make the hardcover edition of this title--a unique celebration of African-American male fashion and style--a best-seller. Essence called it "a testament to the creative spirit of Black men . . . filled with striking photographs of Black legends and insightful essays about the historical context of their apparel." With sleek photographs and a host of celebrity interviews, the special value hardcover edition captures the elegance of Nat King Cole, comfort of Bill Cosby, hip-hop style of LL Cool J, and sex appeal of Denzel Washington. Expert advice rounds out the "history of fabulous sartorial style" (Essence), showing readers how to accomplish the same looks on their own. This is a must-have for Black men--and the women who love them.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Our Men - Generations of Style, Class and Pizzazz!.......2002-11-20

      This book is a classic..it has it all; from Marvin Gaye to LL Cool J...from Boxer Sugar Ray Robinson to our today's Michael Jordan, Men of color have a history of fashion that is detailed throughout this tabletop book.

      The different types of suits, hats, styles of the periods are examined. Black men have always taken pride in their dress and appearance. This is revealed in all the remarkable pictures and the editorials and interviews. The pictures are Excellent! A combination of black & white, Sepia and some color. You have different poses, camera angels of men like Sam Jackson, Lenny Kravitz, Billy Dee, Ed Bradley...and so many more!!

      This is a great investment....for yourself or as a gift! With all it has to offer, there is much to appreciate about Men of Color.

      5 out of 5 stars Perfect Gift for the Guy That Has It All.......2001-06-04

      I bought this book for myself and I've truly enjoyed it. I received a second copy from a co-worker as a Christmas Gift. I think that it's very interesting to look at the different styles of Black Men of years past.

      I loved the Different Profile Commentary from Byrant Gumble, Bill Cosby, Ed Bratley, etc. I really respect each one's own personal sense of style.

      I was given my second copy from a White Female Co-worker, who simply loves the book. I really think that she hated to give it up. Perhaps I'll buy her her own copy in the future.
      Tupac Shakur: Foreword by Quincy Jones
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Essence Tupac!!!
      • Why do kids still admire Tupac?
      • Tupac Shakur Book Is A Must-Buy!
      • huge fan
      • very informative
      Tupac Shakur: Foreword by Quincy Jones
      Vibe Magazine
      Manufacturer: Crown
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

      VoiceVoice | Instruments & Performers | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
      RapRap | Musical Genres | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Composers & Musicians | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
      EntertainersEntertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
      African-American & BlackAfrican-American & Black | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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      GeneralGeneral | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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      1. The Rose That Grew From Concrete The Rose That Grew From Concrete
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      3. The Killing of Tupac Shakur The Killing of Tupac Shakur
      4. Tupac: Resurrection Tupac: Resurrection
      5. Inside A Thug's Heart Inside A Thug's Heart

      ASIN: 0609600729
      Release Date: 1997-08-12

      Book Description

      Tupac Shakur was one of music's most successful, controversial, and enigmatic artists.  His untimely passing, however, left many questions unanswered about his life;  the line between the image and the reality of his "thug" lifestyle remains blurred at best to this day.  Yet, the mark that Shakur left on hip-hop culture is indelible, and the popularity among his fans is unquestionable.        

      From the editors of VIBE magazine comes Tupac Shakura compelling tribute to one of music's most profound talents.  Published in time to commemorate the anniversary of Shakur's death (September 13, 1996), Tupac Shakurtraces the pivotal moments in the artist's short but brilliant life from his tough-love upbringing as the son of a former Black Panther and introduction to rap as a backup dancer and roadie, to his meteoric rise to the top of the rap world and  a turbulent movie career.
              
      Told through VIBE'S most poignant and often prophetic articles on and interviews with Tupac along with more than 100 full-color photographs, Tupac Shakur is a telling portrait of Shakur's mercurial life.  In the book, readers will find extensive interviews with Tupac following his arrests in New York and Atlanta in 1994; a world-exclusive interview from Rikers Island in April 1995; another after his release from prison and being signed to Death Row Records in February 1996; and a final conversation conducted just two weeks before his death in September 1996.  Also published for the first time, is an extremely candid interview VIBEonline conducted with Shakur in June 1996.  With an introduction by Editor-in-Chief, Danyel Smith, memorial tributes from directors John Singleton and Ernest Dickerson, and rapper Chuck D of Public Enemy, and a foreword by Quincy Jones, Tupac Shakur offers an insider's perspective on one of music's most mythological talents from many in the entertainment industry who knew him the best.   Tupac Shakur is a lasting testament to the many faces of this young artist a man who was built, even in death, to last.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Essence Tupac!!!.......2005-10-23

      This piece of work created by the editors of Vibe Magazine could easily be appropriately titled "Essence of Tupac." In this collection of previous interviews and vivrant photos you truely get the feeling that you are holding a conversation with The ledgendary Tupac Shakur. This is a must have for all Tupac fans and for anyone wishing to know more about Pac's Life. Good job by the folks at Vibe Magazine.

      3 out of 5 stars Why do kids still admire Tupac?.......2005-08-05

      When I discovered that my 3rd graders knew who Tupac was, even though he died the year they were born, I felt that I needed to know more about Tupac. This book is published by Vibe, the official scribes of hip hop. It is a collection on interviews and articles that appeared in Vibe and they document the rise and fall of Tupac.
      Tupac had "Thug Life" tatooed on his stomach and he lived the life of a misogynist thug. He was disrespectful to everyone around him. Perhaps, as Quincy Jones suggests in the forward, Tupac could've changed into a positive force had he lived past 25. However, this book, and his own words, show him to be a negative influence on everyone he had contact with. It is very sad that he died at such a young age. It is even sadder that so many youngesters know who he was but cannot tell you about the lives of people who have accomplished great things with their lives. I have my work cut out for me next school year.
      Mark Gast

      5 out of 5 stars Tupac Shakur Book Is A Must-Buy!.......2004-04-26

      As a massive fan of the late great Tupac Shakur, there are few publishings that capture as much information and insight into his life and career as this amazing book from the good people at Vibe Magazine. Consisting of every Vibe article and interview written on Shakur between 1994-97, this gives even the most casual of Pac's fans more information than they could ever dream of. With features on his early career, his signing to Death Row, and his infamous interview with Kevin Powell from inside Clinton Correctional Facility where he denounced "Thug Life", it's all here. This book also contains some of the most informative material on the feud between Death Row Records and Bad Boy. You'll get everyone's side of the story on the Can-Am Studio shooting. You'll hear what both Suge and Puffy had to say about the East vs. West saga. You will also get to hear Pac at his rawest and most candid. If you are even the least bit interested in the amazing story of Tupac Shakur, you should pick up this book.

      5 out of 5 stars huge fan.......2003-11-17

      2pac is a legacy of our generation..he is and will always be the best, not only was he an awesome rapper, but he was also a good actor and poet. This book is very well done and covers so much. When he was shot the first time 5 times..and leading up to his unjustly death..i recommend this book to anyone if they want to learn about 2pac, he wasnt a bad man or a gangsta like most assume, he was just at the wrong place at the wrong time..or he just got involved with the wrong ppl...and like he said live by the gun..die by the gun..and that is exactly what happened to this man...may he rest in peace

      5 out of 5 stars very informative.......2002-02-12

      I my self am not a very big fan of rap music however i was intrigued to read this book after looking into some of the lyrics of 2pacs singles they seemed very in depth. After reading the lyrics i felt that his words had a lot of depth and soul attached to them which intrigued me to find out more about the rap star.

      I myself have a genuine interest in politics, philisophy and poetry similarly to 2pac and i felt that i could relate to some of the lyrics he wrote. This book on tupac gives a deeper insight to the rap artist not only his music and talent but to his life it shed light on many differant topics from differant aspects and i found it very inspirational. What i particularly liked about this book was the way it presented both sides of the story (with the rape case) and i felt this ruled out any bias.

      I would recommend this book to anyone who has a love for reading regardless of whether they have a genuine interest in rap this book not only looks at his career but looks at his inspiration, ambition, life and above all recognised him as more than a rap artist but as a human being and who he actually was!!!
      Back on the Block-Quincy Jones
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Back on the Block-Quincy Jones

        Manufacturer: Warner Bros. Publications
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback
        ASIN: B000HDMXH8

        Product Description

        Piano/Vocal/Chords

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        1. The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream
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        5. The Complete Guide to Environmental Careers in the 21st Century
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        7. The Fair Tax Book: Saying Goodbye to the Income Tax and the IRS
        8. The Hope, Hype, and Reality of Genetic Engineering: Remarkable Stories from Agriculture, Industry, Medicine, and the Environment
        9. The Humanure Handbook: A Guide to Composting Human Manure, Third Edition
        10. The King of California: J. G. Boswell and the Making of a Secret American Empire

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