Time for another good read.
This week it “Texas Flood: The Inside Story of Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Alright, fellow fret fanatics let’s talk about a book that hit my Strat-slinging heart like a perfectly bent note: “Texas Flood: The Inside Story of Stevie Ray Vaughan” by Alan Paul and Andy Aledort. Now, I’ve been around the block a few times (and through a few guitar necks!), seen the rise and fall of countless players, and heard enough blues riffs to last a lifetime. So, when I say this book is special, I mean it.
Look, we all know Stevie Ray. The raw power, the blistering speed, the tone that could melt glaciers – the man was a force of nature. But “Texas Flood” isn’t just a rehash of the legend. It digs deeper, man. It’s like finally getting backstage access, not just to the concerts, but to the soul of the man behind the music.
For a guy like me, who remembers hearing “Pride and Joy” for the first time on the radio and instantly knowing I was witnessing something special, this book was a revelation. It’s not just about the licks (though trust me, there’s plenty of juicy guitar talk for us gearheads). It’s about Stevie’s journey. His struggles, his triumphs, the demons he wrestled, the sheer, unadulterated passion that fueled his playing.
Paul and Aledort do a fantastic job of weaving together the story. It’s not just dry facts and dates. They capture the energy, the grit, the sweat-soaked intensity of Stevie’s life. It’s like you’re right there in the smoky clubs, watching him hone his craft, feeling the electricity in the air as he unleashed those legendary solos. They talk to the people who were there, the bandmates, the family, the friends, giving you a real inside look at the man behind the legend.
What really resonated with me, though, was the human side of Stevie. We all know he was a guitar god, but this book shows you the man, the flawed, complex, incredibly talented human being. His battles with addiction, his struggles with fame, his relentless pursuit of musical perfection – it’s all here, laid bare with honesty and respect. It’s a reminder that even the most gifted among us are still just human, and that the road to greatness is rarely smooth.
So, if you’re a guitar player, a blues lover, or just someone who appreciates a great story, do yourself a favor and pick up “Texas Flood.” It’s more than just a biography; it’s a testament to the power of music, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring legacy 1 of a true legend. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go dust off my Strat and try to channel a little bit of that Stevie magic. Maybe, just maybe, I can finally nail that “Lenny” intro… or at least get a little closer. Highly recommended!
Grab you copy from Amazon or where every you get your “Good Reads”
