So what’s so important about 1973 to rock? A lot of bands and cultural icons began that year. From the first Dick Clark New Year’s Rockin’ Eve to the first albums of diverse acts like Bruce Springsteen, Queen, the New York Dolls, and Aerosmith, music had plenty to celebrate while Nixon was impeached and left the White House. Punk, disco, and hip-hop all began in NYC in 1973. The Vietnam War ended. And Ziggy Stardust died.
Readers who remember 1973 are in for a treat and a trip down memory lane. It helps if you have a subscription music service to play the music discussed in the book. Pandora even has a playlist for the book!
1973’s real change was the merging of different music styles together. 1973: Rock at the Crossroads covers all types of music from punk to hip-hop to country outlaws like Willie Nelson.
If you love music, especially 1970s music, you need to read this book. It is filled with a bunch of insider stories. For example, a backup singer for Ike and Tina Turner’s band was the inspiration for the Stones’ “Brown Sugar” as well as Bowie’s “Lady Grinning Soul”.
Overall, 1973: Rock at the Crossroads is an excellent gift for music fans and a fascinating look at a different era. 5 stars!
Thanks to Thomas Dunn Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.