Jimmy Page, Billy Idol, Joe Perry, Scott Ian pen rock autobiographies
Substance abuse, internal band battles and conquering the music industry are just some of the subjects tackled in these new books by recognizable rock and metal royalty.
"JIMMY PAGE" by Jimmy Page (Genesis, $60). The guitarist has put together an oversized photo scrapbook (512 pages) that plays like a visual love letter to Led Zeppelin and the rest of his music career. He tags photos with backstage memories. A Zep fan's wish come true -- short of a reunion.
"DANCING WITH MYSELF" by Billy Idol (Touchstone, $28). Idol, the MTV icon, proves he's more than a punk sneer and spiky hairdo in this extremely candid autobiography about his personal and professional relationships. Who knew he was this deep and self-analytical? Idol leaves you wanting ... "More! More! More!"
"I'M THE MAN: The Story of That Guy From Anthrax" by Scott Ian with Jon Wiederhorn (Da Capo, $28.99) The Anthrax guitarist takes you on a journey starting from when he first heard Kiss on the radio to playing Yankee Stadium. In between, you'll learn about his years growing up in Seaford, difficulties with various lead singers, backstage shenanigans with Metallica and marrying Meat Loaf's daughter. (This memoir even comes with an autobiographical comic book in the center.) Ian is metal for life and that's just how he likes it.
"ROCKS: My Life In and Out of Aerosmith" by Joe Perry with David Ritz (S&S, $27.99). Aerosmith has always been a den of drama, which makes for good reading. Guitarist Perry, known to be very private, gets quite raw on his complicated working relationship with singer Steven Tyler, as well as his dealings with corporate brass. Will this book clear the air in the band? Dream on.