Ben Sidran

Reviews / Votes

Sidran, jazz pianist-vocalist, record producer, radio and television commentator and interviewer, and author, chronicles his 30-plus years in the music industry, and what a wonderful ride it is! ... As a document of one man's personal and musical journey and as a work that presents the context for jazz in the late 20th century, this book is an unqualified winner. Highly recommended. * Library Journal * Having recorded with stars as diverse as Steve Miller, Miles Davis, and Eric Clapton, Sidran remains a vital musical force, recording new music, performing as a sideman, and occasionally playing in front of touring acts when they play Madison's favorite venues. His literate autobiography reveals a pop musician in touch with the rest of the world-quite a distinction. * Booklist * What I found most appealing about this well-written memoir is its honesty. I would reccomend this book to any person who is interested in the jazz and influences taking place during the turbulent decade of the 1960s. Sidran has a passion for life and for jazz and he willingly shares them with the readers. -- Lee Prosser * Jazz Review * ...Sidran, a bona fide musical legend here, writes well and has some great tales to tell. -- Doug Moe * The Capital Times * Dr. Sidran's writing is tremendous. He holds our attention unabashed through his entire work. His views and philosophies offer a unique view and retrospective look from someone who has made the entire journey. Ben Sidran presents here an ultimately informative and entertaining story of his life in music. His talents as a writer combined with his experience as a musician give us a unique telling of a life well-lived. Exceptional writing from an experienced author, a unique musician, and a distinctive personality. -- Scott Gotschall * SloaneView * Sidran eloquently chronicles his varied musical experiences as a pianist, songwriter, author, producer, journalist, and more......In vivid, pungent words, he describes his impression at first hearing and seeing Miller and Boz Scaggs performing as the Ardells at the University of Wisconsin in the early '60s. * Discoveries * A Life in the Music is thoroughly engrossing read by a multifaceted artist. -- Jim Newsom * Port Folio Weekly * There are a lot of reasons to read Ben Sidran's autobiography-and all of them are good. -- William R. Wineke * Wisconsin State Journal * Jazz great's memior is almost as good as his rich life in music. Deserves a place on the bookshelves of jazz fans and anyone with an interest in the history of the American Jewish experience. -- Jonathan Z. S. Pollack * Madison *