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Elvis-TheKingsCourt _ Latest Elvis News _ Jerry Scheff Autobiography

Posted by: Brian Quinn Jan 30 2012, 01:48 PM

The long awaited Jerry Scheff Autobiography is now available as follows:

http://www.amazon.com/Way-Down-Playing-MoreThe-Autobiography/dp/161713032X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1327928456&sr=1-1

I must say he could have used a more flattering photograph of Elvis on the front cover!!

Brian

Posted by: rickeap Feb 1 2012, 02:00 AM

thanks for the info Brian. I'll buy this one.

Posted by: NightRider Feb 6 2012, 09:51 PM

Anyone know of any reviews....might interested me

Posted by: Brian Quinn Mar 29 2012, 10:16 PM

Personally I expected more from this book than was actually delivered. There is nothing particularly revealing about his personal or professional relationship with his biggest act - Elvis Presley. In fact, although he comes across as liking Elvis one gets the distinct impression that he does not like the showbiz aura surrounding him - the circus atmosphere - as he puts it. One would think that a young embryo bass player suddenly chosen to play in the band of the Greatest Artist of the 20th Century would have been more generous in his praise. He could also have used a more 'kindly' photograph of Elvis on the front cover! Further, he goes on to state that the deceased musician he personally misses the most is John Denver despite his never really being friends with him whilst he was alive.

There is also scant coverage of his working with other artists e.g. Bob Dylan, The Doors, Roy Orbison and Elvis Costello. The main thrust of the book appears to be his formative years and his love for jazz and jazz musicians against a backdrop of racial discrimination experienced by them.

However, to be fair it does not pull any punches and there are some amusing stories along the way. It also shows how dedicated one must be to succeed in the music business as a musician as well as how important it is to be in the right place at the right time.

Overall a good read but could have been better with more recollections from the other members of Elvis' TCB Band.

Brian

Posted by: Brian Quinn Mar 30 2012, 12:07 PM

Another review of Jerry's book. Please go to the following URL:

http://www.seattlepi.com/lifestyle/blogcritics/article/Book-Review-Way-Down-Playing-Bass-with-Elvis-3445298.php

Brian