Product Description

Being the frontman of a popular band is a high-risk profession. Richard Barone, former lead singer of indie rock pioneers the Bongos, survived two decades in the spotlight to tell the tale. From dallying with the glitterati in the trendiest night spots, to learning recording tricks from some of the top names in the music industry, to innovating the intimate chamber-pop genre and emerging as an A-list solo artist and producer, he continues to push the boundaries of modern rock and inventive self-expression. In Frontman, Barone tells his story in a frank and charmingly funny style. We are along for this ride as he recounts the supernova express of New York City stardom and endless parties; sexual politics, divas, disappointments, and drugs; his journey of self-discovery through music; and a lifetime's worth of hard-gained advice for anyone interested in getting into the music business or just surviving in it.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #409084 in Books
• Published on: 2007-09-28
• Released on: 2002-06-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 238 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780879309121
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

Review
"Richard and I have shared the same stage ~ he experiments as I have always ~ yet centers his performance into the popular vortex of music ~ focused and highly creative Richard 'shines on'." -- Donovan Leitch, Venice Beach 2007

"This is a completely charming and witty look at the frontman phenomenon. It is written by a purist who tells you what it's like to be a true fan in love with the music who then becomes a frontman himself. A very warm and honest look at making and loving music." -- Lou Reed

"whether fronting the bongos or his own solo projects, richard lives and breathes music, and has experienced the world. i've always enjoyed working with richard and value his ideas and expertise on my own and other projects. read this book!" -- fred schneider, The B-52's

Customer Reviews

Between Hoboken and Cello...
Richard Barone has led an interesting life, from being a 7 year old radio DJ in Tampa to starting the Hoboken music scene in the early 1980's with his band The Bongos and the "chamber rock" trend in the late 1980's.

He captures the story of his life as a "frontman" with warmth and humor in this book, which is also filled with a cast of characters as varried as Tiny Tim and Bea Arthur to Moby and legendary producer Tony Visconti - and how each has added a thread in the tapestry that is Richard's life.

After reading, I was wishing there was a "soundtrack" to go along with the tales, such as the "legendary Tiny Tim Banana recording sessions", The Snails, and the "lost Bongos' album"... maybe that's a project for down the road.

If you are a fan of Richard's music, you'll get insights on how much of it came to be, and if you're not familiar with his catalogue, it's a fascinating tale of the music industry from an inside perspective which I hope will encourage you to see out the songs behind the stories.

Thank you for sharing, Richard!

All books about music should be this good!
With 'Frontman' Richard Barone adds another remarkable achievement to his already impressive portfolio. Most books I've read by or about musicians have disappointed and/or caused me to like a performer less. 'Frontman' only helps me further appreciate one of my favorite artists! Richard offers a fascinating "travelogue" of his career and music. As in his songs, his writing is eloquent but never pretentious or cloying, and honest but never self-indulgent or gossipy. And as intended, his stories of the music biz are enlightening, engaging and educational for any aspiring frontmen. Richard has truly experienced the wild rollercoaster ride of the entertainment industry and still remains modest, upbeat, and astonishingly un-jaded. Whether or not you're already a fan of Richard's work, this is a great read... and if you're not, you will be by the time you finish this book!

RIVETING
What an amazing book! I simply could not put it down. Mr. Barone offers valuable advise to aspiring musicians, however, it is so much more than that. A true story of triumphs as well as disappointments and a rare insight into the glittery world of the superstars of music. Personally, I can't wait for the sequel....