Sebastian Robertson

This is a great introduction to some of the great early talents in modern music, all of which I enjoyed. I loved the personal reflections about how the authors (musicians themselves) were affected by these musicians, the enclosed CDs (although I looked more songs up on the internet), and the general design of the book (with era-appropriate art for each artist, bold and/or enlarged font for key points, quotes in columns, etc.). This is created as an introduction: anyone looking for more information can continue their education with more listening and reading, but now they know who to listen for.… (more)

This is a great introduction to some of the great early talents in modern music, all of which I enjoyed. I loved the personal reflections about how the authors (musicians themselves) were affected by these musicians, the enclosed CDs (although I looked more songs up on the internet), and the general design of the book (with era-appropriate art for each artist, bold and/or enlarged font for key points, quotes in columns, etc.). This is created as an introduction: anyone looking for more information can continue their education with more listening and reading, but now they know who to listen for.… (more)

This book is informative, beautiful, and fun! I know it's being marketed toward grade school kids as a brief education on the people who were vital to the musical world, but it truly is ideal for music lovers of all ages. My collection of books on music would not be complete without this on the shelf.

While the information on each artist is not extensive, we're given the career highlights showing the importance of their contributions. There are also fun facts about each artist that give the bios a personal feel. The artwork is spectacular and the colors vibrant. I also have to mention the cover. I am not a fan of the dust jackets on all hardcovers these days. I just think they cheapen the look of hardcovers, and I miss the days when the design was on the actual cover. This book has a dust cover, but the exact same artwork is on the cover itself. The quality is exceptional.

Of course, we're also given two CDs full of the music discussed in the book. This is the perfect addition, giving life to all the music on the pages.… (more)