Frontman: Surviving the Rock Star Myth

by Richard Barone

Being the frontman of a popular band is a high-risk profession. Richard Barone, former lead singer of indie rock pioneers the Bongos, survived two decades in the spotlight to tell the tale. From dallying with the glitterati in the trendiest night spots, to learning recording tricks from some of the top names in the music industry, to innovating the intimate chamber-pop genre and emerging as an A-list solo artist and producer, he continues to push...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0879309121
• ISBN13: 9780879309121
• Release Date: September 2007
• Publisher: Backbeat Books
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.8" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A Ride Into Time

What a surprise to find that the frontman, Richard Barone, is a poet, a musician and singer, a philosopher and mystic. I was skeptical when a friend gave me the book exclaiming, "you'll love it." I love music, but wasn't interested in knowing the ins and outs of the music business (which is accomplished with humor, intelligence and punches). So, I read the first page and was convinced he could write, and then read the last two pages, which reeled me into the reality that this book was much more than black and white words. I've thanked my friend for turning me on to The Frontman. I've given copies to several of my friends, who have thanked me. And, so it goes, there are numerous ways to be inspired, appreciate creativity, notice serendipity, and be compelled to consider the grand unanswerable questions of life. Thank you Richard Barone!

All books about music should be this good!

With 'Frontman' Richard Barone adds another remarkable achievement to his already impressive portfolio. Most books I've read by or about musicians have disappointed and/or caused me to like a performer less. 'Frontman' only helps me further appreciate one of my favorite artists! Richard offers a fascinating "travelogue" of his career and music. As in his songs, his writing is eloquent but never pretentious or cloying, and honest but never self-indulgent or gossipy. And as intended, his stories of the music biz are enlightening, engaging and educational for any aspiring frontmen. Richard has truly experienced the wild rollercoaster ride of the entertainment industry and still remains modest, upbeat, and astonishingly un-jaded. Whether or not you're already a fan of Richard's work, this is a great read... and if you're not, you will be by the time you finish this book!

Brilliant!

Frontman: Surviving the Rock Star Myth "Frontman" is a uniquely honest and refreshing story that works on several levels at the same time. What makes a frontman? Why do they do it? Few books, if any, have explored the phenomenon from the point of view of the subject so brilliantly. B-52's Frontman Fred Schneider says it best on the back cover: "BUY THIS BOOK"!!!

"Frontman" is terrific!

Richard's book is an extremely enjoyable, involving look at a business that eats its own without blinking, but he's come out of everything he's encountered with an amazingly uncynical, positive view. I can't recommend Frontman highly enough... a wonderful way to spend your weekend!

RIVETING

What an amazing book! I simply could not put it down. Mr. Barone offers valuable advise to aspiring musicians, however, it is so much more than that. A true story of triumphs as well as disappointments and a rare insight into the glittery world of the superstars of music. Personally, I can't wait for the sequel....