The experience of reading about musicians is unique in its ability to capture the essence of their daring profession. Unlike writers who remain detached from their readers, or painters who don’t have to confront criticism alongside their art, musicians are constantly performing and receiving feedback from their audience. This real-time dynamic creates an extraordinary energy that’s hard to replicate.
As someone who has missed live music dearly over the past few years, I can attest to its transformative power. When it finally felt safe to return to in-person performances, I sought them out with renewed enthusiasm. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or not, books about musicians offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process. As someone who appreciates diversity in both music and literature, my must-read list features a mix of genres, ages, and musical styles.
From fiction to nonfiction, comics to young adult, and across various music genres, I’ll be sharing stories that bring these talented individuals to life.
Fiction
Kiss & Tell by Adib Khorram
A confession: I’m helplessly drawn to boy bands. As I reflect on my youthful enthusiasm, I realize that a part of me remains devoted to those iconic groups. It’s as if I’ve never fully outgrown that starry-eyed tween self.
Kiss & Tell is a captivating YA novel that delves into the life of Hunter, a boy band star grappling with maintaining his reputation as a role model for the LGBTQ+ community.
His label’s expectations and the fallout from a high-profile breakup have propelled him to this position. However, Hunter finds himself increasingly drawn to Kaivan, the drummer for the band he’s currently touring with. As these two navigate the intense spotlight of celebrity culture, will they be able to overcome the pressures that surround them?
The Most Dazzling Girl in Berlin by Kip Wilson
If you were left unsettled by the cinematic experience that is Cabaret, a film that masterfully captures the sense of foreboding leading up to World War II, then this historical novel in verse is an absolute must-read. The story follows Hilde, a young orphan who finally finds her footing within Berlin’s vibrant queer community. Her journey is intertwined with romance blossoming between her and Rosa, a captivating cabaret performer at the iconic Café Lila.
However, as their countercultural haven begins to crumble under the weight of creeping fascism, you can’t help but draw parallels between the events that unfold and those playing out in today’s United States.
American Royalty by Tracey Livesay
In a surprising twist of fate, Prince Jameson finds himself at the helm of planning a tribute concert for his late father-in-law, the Queen’s husband. His first instinct is to book the perfect American rapper, Duchess, thinking her smooth tunes would be an ideal fit. However, upon realizing that Duchess’ music is actually provocative and explicit, Jameson faces a daunting task: convincing the Queen to let bygones be bygones.
Meanwhile, Duchess – aka Dani – sees this as a golden opportunity for her career, while Jameson finds himself inexplicably drawn to her charms. As these two disparate worlds collide, one thing becomes clear: amidst the scandal and controversy, romance is bound to prevail, but just how will it all unfold?
When You Get the Chance by Emma Lord
When You Get the Chance is a cinematic treasure that pays homage to the peak of movie musicals. The film’s creative team, likely including Emma Lord, drew inspiration from this iconic genre. In a clever and nostalgic nod, aspiring Broadway star Millie embarks on a journey to uncover her mother’s identity by examining her father’s 2003 LiveJournal entries.
This quest not only holds the key to discovering her roots but also serves as a transformative experience that helps Millie reconnect with herself. As she navigates this journey, three potential suspects emerge, echoing the iconic structure of Mamma Mia! and other beloved movie musicals. The parallels between When You Get the Chance and its cinematic predecessors are undeniable, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Heartbreak Symphony by Laekan Zea Kemp
The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton
I’m particularly fond of novels that take on a fictitious oral history format. One such gem is a book that tells the story of an Afro-punk duo, comprised of a white British man and a Black American woman. While it’s certainly a tale of sex, drugs, and rock and roll, what truly sets this novel apart is its unflinching exploration of racism – a theme that ultimately tears the duo asunder.
This thought-provoking narrative makes for a chilling and unforgettable read, and I’d argue that it’s even more impactful when experienced through an audiobook.
Can’t Take That Away by Steven Salvatore
In a world where marginalized voices are often silenced, tales of teenagers finding their courage and refusing to be quieted are a beacon of hope. One such story is that of Carey, a genderqueer teen who, despite past experiences of homophobic bullying at school, musters the confidence to audition for the lead role of Elphaba in their school’s production of Wicked.
As they navigate the challenges that come with being different, Carey finds solace and support in their blossoming relationship with Chris, who stands by them in the face of discrimination.
Beating Heart Baby by Lio Min (July 26)
This narrative is an affectionate tribute to the realms of indie music, Los Angeles, young queer individuals, and anime. For those willing to embark on a journey of vulnerability, heartbreak, and ultimately, rebirth, this story holds a treasure trove of emotional resonance. The protagonist, Santi, navigates the complexities of his internet friendship with Memo, which was marred by a misunderstanding that led to the leak of one of Memo’s songs.
Years later, Santi is readjusting to a new school and finding his footing within the marching band. However, Suwa’s skepticism towards Santi stems from their shared painful pasts, which are slowly revealed as the narrative unfolds.
West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras
The vibrant sounds of mariachi music are a distant memory for me now, as I find myself surrounded by silence in my current location. Yet, I still cherish the thrill of an impromptu serenade in a bustling taqueria or a packed subway car, experiences that filled my days in San Francisco and New York with joy. This romance, a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet’s timeless tale of feuding families and star-crossed lovers, resonates deeply with me.
The charming cityscape of San Antonio provides the perfect backdrop for Mariana and Angelo’s poignant journey, as they navigate decades of animosity and rivalry to forge a path towards a happy ending.
The Frontman by Ron Bahar
Pursuing a career in music can be a daunting decision, especially when it means going against the expectations of loved ones. The protagonist of The Frontman, Ron, embodies this dilemma. As the child of Israeli immigrants living in Nebraska, his parents would have preferred him to follow a more conventional path – studying medicine and marrying within their community. However, Ron is torn between these expectations and his passion for music.
He’s secretly dating someone outside his faith, which further complicates his situation. The coming-of-age story that unfolds is a poignant blend of teenage angst and heartwarming moments, as Ron navigates the challenges of self-discovery and staying true to himself.
Black Card by Chris L. Terry
As a biracial individual, navigating the complexities of the world can be a constant challenge. The same scrutiny applies to the creative endeavors of those who share this experience, including their musical expressions. This satirical novel takes a humorous approach by following a protagonist’s journey to reclaim his sense of identity and belonging. In doing so, he delves into common stereotypes, showcasing the blurred lines between race, culture, and music.
The author brings depth and insight to these themes, exploring the intricate relationships between one’s identity and their connection to music.
Nonfiction
Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band by Christian Staebler
For die-hard MCU enthusiasts, it’s hard to forget Redbone’s iconic hit ‘Come and Get Your Love’ from the Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack. While they may have seemed like a one-hit wonder, their true story as an all-Native band is far more compelling than that. Despite their musical success, the band’s dedication to the American Indian Movement of the late 1960s took precedence over commercial gains. This intersection of music and civil rights movements makes for a fascinating graphic history.
Singing Like Germans: Black Musicians in the Land of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms by Kira Thurman
While traditional notions of German identity have often excluded Black people from its narrative, this thought-provoking book delves into this concept by spotlighting Black musicians who immersed themselves in the nation’s rich musical heritage. Through their stories, the book raises intriguing questions about what it means to be a true custodian of culture and challenges listeners’ assumptions about who can authentically embody German identity.
Ultimately, the work serves as a captivating exploration of how categories like race and gender are constructed and redefined over time.
Woody Guthrie and the Dust Bowl Ballads by Nick Hayes
Before scribbling that iconic ‘This machine kills fascists’ message on his guitar, Woody Guthrie was busy honing his craft in Oklahoma and Texas. It was during this period of travel and musical exploration that he became immersed in the rich tradition of American folk music. This graphic novel beautifully captures the essence of those Depression-era days by employing a sepia-toned aesthetic, vividly evoking the desolate landscape of the Dust Bowl era.
150 Glimpses of the Beatles by Craig Brown
For the seasoned Beatles enthusiast, this quirky book offers a fresh take on the iconic band. By weaving together unexpected perspectives from a diverse cast of characters, including Tom Hanks and John Lennon’s Aunt Mimi, the author crafts a kaleidoscopic portrait that challenges readers to rethink their understanding of the Fab Four. Fans of Craig Brown’s offbeat wit will appreciate the similar tone and style found in his book Ma’am Darling: 99 Glimpses of Princess Margaret.
Everything I Need I Get from You: How Fangirls Created the Internet as We Know It by Kaitlyn Tiffany
I must admit that when I first picked up this book, I was under the impression it would delve into the world of internet culture. Instead, it turned out to be a comprehensive exploration of One Direction’s fandom. While this might not have been my usual cup of tea, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the subject matter, discovering new pathways to music appreciation that I never knew existed.
It’s certainly rare for me to become captivated by a topic outside my comfort zone, and this book did just that. I was particularly intrigued by the idea of becoming a fan of a band after reading fanfiction about them – it was an epiphany that opened my eyes to new possibilities!
Go Ahead in the Rain: Notes to A Tribe Called Quest by Hanif Abdurraqib
Immersing oneself in Hanif Abdurragib’s work becomes an essential practice for any literary enthusiast. As a devoted fan of A Tribe Called Quest, I was thoroughly captivated by the author’s latest book, which masterfully weaves together the jazz-infused rap of the iconic group with its historical context and the author’s own personal experiences. The inclusion of two Spotify playlists, carefully curated to complement the book’s themes, adds an additional layer of depth and immersion for readers.
Kill ‘Em and Leave: Searching for James Brown and the American Soul by James McBride
James Brown’s legacy is a complex tapestry woven from threads of both genius and controversy. As the Godfather of Soul, his reputation as the hardest working man in show business precedes him. Yet, beneath the myth lies a multifaceted individual, one whose story is not simply reduced to his achievements or shortcomings.
National Book Award winner James McBride delves into the intricacies of Brown’s life, uncovering the intricate forces that shaped him and the profound impact he had on popular culture. This exploration does not attempt to sanitize Brown’s reputation, but rather sheds light on the tumultuous forces that contributed to his persona. By examining both the triumphs and the transgressions, McBride offers a nuanced portrait of James Brown, a man whose legacy continues to captivate audiences.
Chasin’ the Bird: Charlie Parker in California by Dave Chisholm
The connection between jazz music and visual art is undeniable. For me, certain illustrations evoke the same sense of improvisation and creativity that defines jazz. Similarly, listening to a jazz piece can transport me to a mental canvas where colors blend and patterns emerge. I find myself drawn to books that delve into specific periods or moments in a jazz musician’s life, rather than attempting to cover their entire career.
The book on Charlie Parker’s time in Southern California resonated with me, as it explores the tumultuous period when he and Dizzy Gillespie brought East Coast bebop to the West Coast. The author’s portrayal of this pivotal moment in Parker’s life is both poignant and multifaceted, capturing the complexities and heartache that defined his experience.
Glenn Gould: A Life Off Tempo by Sandrine Revel
Glenn Gould’s unique presence on his recordings is what I find most captivating. His music is characterized by its lively yet imperfect quality, likely a result of his solitary nature and unconventional personality traits. This book eschews traditional approaches to capturing Gould’s essence, opting instead for a nuanced exploration of his idiosyncrasies and the intricacies of his life and music.
As you delve into the pages, you’ll begin to appreciate the peculiarities that make this book so distinct, just as you would with Gould’s own work. And if you’re eager to hear from musicians themselves, I’ve also curated a selection of nonfiction books about music and memoirs written by artists, all waiting to be devoured.