The original autobiography of a 20th century Australian superstar, updated with a new biographical chapter covering the time from its publication in 1985 to his death in 2008, and almost to the present day. It includes more than 200 photos and illustrations.
Lowell Tarling recorded Martin Sharp's life, and his effect on his friends, over twenty years. Now two volumes in one, in advance of the film of these books - GHOST TRAIN... Fully illustrated with a cast of characters including Brett Whiteley, Eric Clapton, Abe Saffron… As Sharp has said: “Like the Ancient Mariner it’s also a ghastly tale. I could ......
A novel about a high school band by Lowell Tarling with artwork by Martin Sharp. You may finish school with no plans, no money, and no direction. But if all you want is to play guitar with your teeth, smash a Rickenbacker or grow your hair long - then being in a high school band could be the last thing you need... It is 1967. Tom is 18, and ......
Nigel Kennedy changed the course of classical music in the late 1980s with his interpretation of Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’. He was revolutionary: in his performance and presentation; in his technique and his open-minded attitude. A natural boundary-pusher and musical adventurer, Nigel Kennedy blew minds
'Don't live life worrying about it, just T. Rex the s*** out of it.' - Sylvain Sylvain The New York Dolls were called many things; glam, proto-punk, hard rock, but are probably best understood as a 'dirty rock & roll' band. Combining an aggressively androgynous style with street smart New York attitude and campy humour, the New York Dolls ushered ......
Lowell Tarling interviewed Tiny Tim many times during his numerous visits to Australia. Weird, whacky, this is a great biography of the Worlds most unusual performr, perhaps most famous for his falsetto hit - Tiptoe through the Tulips.
A powerful memoir from one of the world's most successful orchestral conductors, whose life story, talent and dedication to music is an inspiration to read. The book documents an insider's view of the complex relationships between an opera house, its orchestra, the conductor and singers.
In 2009, the legendary Les Paul passed away at the age of 94. In celebration of his life, this book, capturing Pauls own reflections on his remarkable inventions and guitar playing, was published as a high-end collectors edition. In 2015, Les Paul reached his centennial, and Backbeat Books is pleased to celebrate the legend once more in the ......