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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Wrecking Crew summary
Kent Hartman
Brief summary
The Wrecking Crew by Kent Hartman is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the untold story of the legendary session musicians who played on some of the greatest hits of the 1960s and 70s.
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The Wrecking Crew
Summary of key ideas
The Unsung Heroes of Popular Music
In The Wrecking Crew by Kent Hartman, we are introduced to a group of musicians who were the unsung heroes behind some of the most iconic songs of the 1960s and 1970s. The Wrecking Crew was a group of studio musicians based in Los Angeles who played on countless hit records, often without receiving any credit or recognition for their work.
The book begins by introducing us to the key members of the Wrecking Crew, including drummer Hal Blaine, bassist Carol Kaye, and guitarist Tommy Tedesco. These musicians were highly skilled and versatile, able to adapt to a wide range of musical styles and play with precision and creativity. They were in high demand, and their work can be heard on songs by artists such as The Beach Boys, The Monkees, and The Mamas & the Papas.
The Studio Scene
Hartman takes us inside the bustling recording studios of Los Angeles, where the Wrecking Crew worked tirelessly, often recording multiple songs in a single day. The musicians had to be quick learners, as they were often given sheet music for a song they had never heard before and expected to nail the recording in just a few takes. Despite the pressure, the Wrecking Crew thrived in this environment, and their professionalism and talent made them indispensable to the music industry.
The book also explores the unique relationship between the Wrecking Crew and the famous producers and songwriters of the era. Producers like Phil Spector and Brian Wilson relied heavily on the Crew to bring their musical visions to life, and the musicians often played a significant role in shaping the final sound of a song. However, their contributions were rarely acknowledged, and they were often overshadowed by the artists they were backing.
Behind the Hits
One of the most fascinating aspects of The Wrecking Crew is the insight it provides into the creation of some of the most beloved songs of the 60s and 70s. We learn about the recording sessions for iconic tracks like The Beach Boys' 'Good Vibrations' and Simon & Garfunkel's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', and how the Wrecking Crew played a crucial role in shaping these songs.
Despite their immense talent and contribution to the music industry, the members of the Wrecking Crew remained largely unknown to the public. The rise of rock bands writing and performing their own music marked the decline of the studio musician era, and the Crew's heyday came to an end in the early 1970s. However, their legacy lives on in the countless hit records they helped create.
Recognition and Legacy
In the latter part of the book, Hartman explores the growing recognition of the Wrecking Crew's contribution to popular music. In 2008, the documentary The Wrecking Crew was released, shining a long-overdue spotlight on these talented musicians. The film featured interviews with many of the Crew members and highlighted their remarkable body of work.
In conclusion, The Wrecking Crew is a captivating exploration of a group of musicians who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of popular music. Their story is one of talent, hard work, and resilience in the face of an industry that often overlooked their contributions. The book serves as a fitting tribute to the Wrecking Crew and their enduring legacy in the history of rock and pop music.
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What is The Wrecking Crew about?
The Wrecking Crew by Kent Hartman delves into the untold story of the talented musicians who played on countless hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. From The Beach Boys to The Monkees, this book reveals the behind-the-scenes secrets of the music industry and the incredible impact of these unsung heroes.
The Wrecking Crew Review
The Wrecking Crew (2012) by Kent Hartman is a fascinating exploration of the unsung heroes behind the biggest hits in the history of popular music. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With behind-the-scenes stories and interviews, it gives readers a glimpse into the hidden world of session musicians who shaped the sound of the '60s and '70s.
- The book highlights the innovative techniques and contributions of these talented musicians, challenging the notion of the solitary artist and celebrating collaboration.
- Through its engaging narrative and vivid storytelling, the book keeps readers captivated from start to finish, revealing the untold stories behind beloved songs and albums.
Who should read The Wrecking Crew?
- Fans of 1960s and 1970s popular music
- Music enthusiasts interested in behind-the-scenes stories of the recording industry
- Readers who enjoy biographical accounts of talented and influential musicians
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The Wrecking Crew FAQs
What is the main message of The Wrecking Crew?
The main message of The Wrecking Crew is the untold story of the behind-the-scenes musicians who played on countless hit records.
How long does it take to read The Wrecking Crew?
The reading time for The Wrecking Crew varies depending on the reader, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Wrecking Crew a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Wrecking Crew is a fascinating read that sheds light on the often overlooked musicians who shaped the sound of popular music. It's definitely worth diving into!
Who is the author of The Wrecking Crew?
The author of The Wrecking Crew is Kent Hartman.
What to read after The Wrecking Crew?
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