by Graham Nash
First published 2013
Graham Nash opens his memoir in post-war England, where a working-class boy from Manchester discovers music will become his escape route. Nash traces his journey from early success with The Hollies through hits like "Carrie Anne" and "On A Carousel" to his transformation during the British Invasion. He describes meeting Stephen Stills and David Crosby, forming the supergroup that would create songs like "Our House" and "Teach Your Children." Nash reveals his romantic relationship with Joni Mitchell during their most creative period, when both artists produced their most personal work. He chronicles the Woodstock era and his experiences with rock legends including the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Cass Elliot, and Bob Dylan. Nash examines the music scene from London's early days to Laurel Canyon's peak years. The memoir covers his solo career and political activism alongside the personal costs of fame. Nash presents both triumphs and failures, exploring the relationships, conflicts, and substances that shaped an entire generation of musicians.
Genres: 20th-century, autobiography, biography-memoir, music, 21st-century, musicians
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, rags-to-riches
Setting: England, Laurel Canyon, London, Manchester, Woodstock
Period: British Invasion, Post-War, Woodstock Era
360 pages · Hardcover · Crown Archetype