Only the Strong Survive: Memoirs of a Soul Survivor
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Book Overview
Jerry Butler's Only the Strong Survive presents a portrait of a remarkable performer, as well as an up-close and personal look at the world of rhythm-and-blues. Filled with intimate anecdotes about such R&B legends as Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield, Patti LaBelle, Sam Cook, and Dionne Warwick, Butler's compelling, sometimes hilarious, narrative is told against the backdrop of 1960s America. Only the Strong Survive, as told to Earl Smith, is an autobiography; but more than that, it is history. Drawing on countless conversations and interviews with Butler and others, Smith chronicles the "Iceman's" journey from rural Mississippi to Chicago, and the founding and eventual breakup of the legendary Impressions vocal group. Currently serving his fourth term on the Cook County Board of Commissioners, Butler also gives us a glimpse inside the world of Chicago politics. He shares stories of Harold Washington, Chicago's first African American mayor, and others, including Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan. Only the Strong Survive is an entertaining, moving chronicle of one of America's music pioneers.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0253337968
ISBN13:9780253337962
Release Date:October 2000
Publisher:Indiana University Press
Length:266 Pages
Weight:1.42 lbs.
Dimensions:1.0" x 6.1" x 9.3"
Related Subjects
African-American & Black African-American Studies Arts & Literature Arts, Music & Photography Biographical Biographies Biographies & History Biography & History Composers & Musicians Entertainers Ethnic & National History & Criticism Humor & Entertainment Music Musical Genres Politics & Social Sciences Social Sciences Soul Specific DemographicsCustomer Reviews
4 ratings
Only the Strong Survive
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 16 years ago
Excellent autobiography from one of the giants of Chicago soul and a giant in the world of pop music in general. Lots of anecdotes about life on the road and the Chicago music scene from the 50s through the 90s. Butler is a major talent as well as an intelligent, literate man. A must read for fans of popular music in the last half of the 20th century.
More than a book about rhythm and blues music
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
A friend of mine gave me "Only the Strong Survive" as a Christmas gift, and now I treasure it as one of the best gifts I've ever received.This is more than a book about music--although eighty percent of it is. It is a history book, political book, inspirational book -- you name it! One would never think that a rhythm and blues singer had that much depth. For example, Mr. Butler uses the tragic case of his former bongo player to show the horrors of the war in Vietnam. Then, turning to politics, he reminds us of the debt we owe the late Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, and what all of us can do to make this world a better place. It is at once inspirational and entertaining, thought-provoking and profound -- a must-read for all serious readers!
THIS BOOK WILL BE A COLLECTOR'S ITEM
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
A MUST READ ESPECIALLY FOR DUSTY RECORD FANS. MR. BUTLER IS CLASSY AND ONE OF THE BEST PERFORMERS BACK FROM THE 60'S, A TRUE PROFESSIONAL. I STARTED READING THE BOOK AND COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. TRUST ME THIS BOOK WILL NOT BORE YOU, WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT IS JERRY AND EARL ADD A TOUCH OF HUMOR TO JUST ABOUT EVERY CHAPTER. THIS BOOK IS A KEEPSAKE. JERRY ALSO HAS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VOICES I HAVE EVER HEARD, DID YOU KNOW THAT HE WAS THE LEAD SINGER OF THE IMPRESSIONS AT ONE TIME AND HE LED ON THE SONG "FOR YOUR PRECIOUS LOVE" I AM A LIBRARIAN, AND I CONSTANTLY REVIEW AND PREVIEW BOOKS AND THIS IS A WINNER. AS JERRY SINGS IN ONE OF HIS SONGS "I'M A TELLING YOU".
The Real Survivor
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
Jerry Butler's book tells an important--and fun--story about his history as the one great rnb singers. Did you know he co-wrote I've Been Loving You Too Long, with Otis Redding. Butler also worked with Curtis Mayfield, who produced and wrote for him. His composition "Brand New Me," has been covered by countless artists from Dusty Springfield to Phoebe Snow. Don't just get the book--pick up his greatest hits too.
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