An American institution; Sun Records has a history with many chapters -- its Memphis origins with visionary Sam Phillips; the breakthrough recordings of Elvis Presley; and the studios immense influence on the sound of popular music. But behind the companys chart toppers and legendary musicians there exists another story; told by Barbara Barnes Sims. In the male-dominated workforce of the 1950s; 24-year-old Sims found herself thriving in the demanding roles of publicist and sales promotion coordinator at Sun Records. Simss job placed her in the studio with Johnny Cash; Roy Orbison; Jerry Lee Lewis; Charlie Rich; Carl Perkins; and other Sun entertainers; as well as the unforgettable Phillips; whose work made the music that defined an era.The Next Elvis: Searching for Stardom at Sun Records chronicles Simss career at the studio; a pivotal time at this recording mecca; as she darted from disc jockeys to distributors. Sims not only entertains with personal stories of big personalities; but also brings humor to the challenges of a young woman working in a fast and tough industry.Her disarming narrative ranges from descriptions of a disgraced Jerry Lee Lewis to the remarkable impact and tragic fall of DJ Daddy-O Dewey to the frenzied Memphis homecoming of Elvis after his military service. Collectively; these vignettes offer a rare and intimate look at the people; the city; and the studio that permanently shifted the trajectory of rock n roll.
#2852407 in eBooks 2014-05-14 2014-05-14File Name: B00KD8YXJS
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The other side of the sorbid tale...By Gabe MartinI read this and Evolution of a Cro-Mag back to back. I suggested other people interested in HC roots and; particularly; the Cro-Mags; do the same.That said; and under the full understanding that this is a memoir; the actual writing style is a bit erratic. It was hard to follow sometimes. I was cool with it though and enjoyed what I learned about Harley and his side of the John vs. Harley war (a side I have not heard yet and this book might be the only mainstream access to that side of the story). I do feel pulled by both sides but I know I can not get caught up in it as a grown man.Still; my youth was influenced by the Cro Mags so I got mad-respect for both of them regardless of the truth.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. or ANYONE interested in a good read about a true punk/hardcore legendBy J. D. HankeA MUST read for any CroMags fan;NYHC fan; crossover period metal fan; 80s and/or 70s punk fan; or ANYONE interested in a good read about a true punk/hardcore legend; straight from the horses mouth. Love him or hate him; take sides or dont; this is a great read. Doesnt pull any punches; and doesnt attempt to smear anyone elses name. Anyone familiar with the Cromags; is undoubtedly aware of the static the members have with each other; Harley says it like it is. Great stories from his years as a pre-pubescent drummer for The Stimulators; playin Maxs Kansas City and CBGB and subsequent touring; his time in San Francisco in the notorious Vat days; and back to the L.E.S. to finally start CroMags for better or worse; and continues on through kids; marriage; Brazillian Jiu Jitsu with the world famous Gracie family; and gives his side of the story regarding the headline making incident in NYC at a performance by current CroMags line-up led by front-man John Joseph; at the CBGB Festival at Webster Hall.Flanagans book is entertaining; to the point; and FEELS honest (I wasnt there; so it isnt my business! hahaha); and throughout it all; he still maintains love for his brothers in arms despite the eternally waged conflict that will forever be attached to the CroMags name. At the end of the day; it seems some kind of peace has come out of the age of quarrel; even if it appears the past wont be mended; at least some personal version of closure is attained. In short: Read this s***- its a killer book. -Hammerin Hanke (DuRT-Head Army)6 of 7 people found the following review helpful. You have to read this bookBy Christine BriefI knew Harley from just about the time the CroMags started. I was just another hc kid hanging out in the scene; not a musician or sell known character like he was. his band was my favorite in the NYHC scene and I saw almost every early show they played at CBs. Even then Harleys reputation preceded him. On stage he was an wild animal; stiring up all the young crazy kids like me; bouncing off the walls to the beat of Harleys sick bass lines. Since I was part of the world described in this book; I can vouch for its authenticity. he didnt have to embellish anything since the truth is way more exciting! Not only is the subject matter fascinating(at least to me) but his writing style is great. I couldnt put this book down. way to go Harley.
