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. ( )

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. ( )

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. ( )

Those expecting anything more than coffee table book fodder will be disappointed. However, those that DO expect a sort of book laying around the table, next to the cd player, might enjoy it. The book is a little oversized, but the layout is pleasing; with 27 musicians covered, from Dylan, to Bob Marley, to Curtis Mayfield, to even, yes, the Beatles. Pretty well covered ground, but fairly diverse. Each snippet bio is a few pages long, starting with an artistic rendition of the musician and quote by someone famous who appreciated them. Then it is pretty much your standard wikipedia bio of each performer. The coolest feature in these vignettes is a suggested playlist for each of them. At least what the authors' think should be the most representational of them, which again, pretty well covered ground, but a creative addition to the biographical sketch. Also included in the book are 2 cds worth of tunes by these folks, which is great for those classic rockers out there, even if you already own them in their regular format. This book would be best suited as a gift for a youngster just getting into music, or the casual listener of the classics. So, a deep biographical scope of modern music? Not so much. But a colorful, well designed coffee table book with two cds worth of classic tunes? Absolutely! ( )

The book shares 27 short profiles of legendary artists and their music that changed the world, including my life. It's a great reference book, like an encyclopedia for young musicians. You'll take a look at a timeline of mega gifted artists who shared strong cultural messages of the day, while others communicated from their own personal challenges. You can easily pick up the book and read anywhere about the cutting edge of performance from the sounds of rock and roll, jazz greats, folk icons and country stars. I can totally relate to the music here, from great grooves to unforgettable lyrics.

All in all, I was blown away by the awesome contents because I learned so much. The breath-taking illustrations are stunning and the awesome sounds on the two cds had me on my feet singing and dancing. I have such a fondness for smooth vocals from Ella, Billie and Frank. Great piano work by Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder and Carole King.

You'll love the book and wish you had another copy to give to a friend. It's that great... I highly recommend for the young and adults, too. If you're passionate about music and it's history, get the book. Thanks for the wonderful memories, guys. As an educator, I proudly share it in my studio with all my students, their parents and my grandchildren. Appreciative of your great work here. What a gift! ( )