Reviews
Reverentially details every stage in the [song's] evolution-and along the way, he reveals the compelling stories behind some of its most iconic interpretations., Alan Light gets inside Prince's mind palace in Let's Go Crazy -a history of the making of his historic, semi-autobiographical musical masterwork, Purple Rain ., Drawing on interviews with musicians and filmmakers involved in the making of the title song, the album, and the movie, Light provides not only a portrait of a musician compelled to share his musical vision, no matter the cost, but also a cultural history of the times in which the film and music debuted., In all, Light's 300-page reassessment of Prince'smagnum opus is a revealing study in cinema and sound, not to mention afascinating look at the dynamic young performer behind the songs (and image)., Praise for The Holy or the Broken "Thoughtful and illuminating... [Mr. Light] is a fine companion for this journey through one song's changing fortunes.", Keeps the pages turning... A well-constructed, consistently enlightening book, which should have Cohen devotees and music fans alike seeking out their favorite version of the song., Alan Light gets inside Prince's mind palace in Let's Go Crazy --a history of the making of his historic, semi-autobiographical musical masterwork, Purple Rain ., Reverentially details every stage in the [song's] evolution--and along the way, he reveals the compelling stories behind some of its most iconic interpretations., Light's behind-the-scenes look at a rock classic offers an enticing glimpse into its charming yet enigmatic creator., Everything you ever wanted to know about the making of the popular Prince movie-and much more.Beyond the minutiae of moviemaking and who was sleeping with whom, the book is particularly incisive in providing context, showing how video technology and black crossover artists were changing the marketplace. A few of the revelations are real howlers...But mainly, Light commemorates an anniversary that might otherwise have passed without much notice. A must-read for the Prince die-hards who have remained devoted through the musical meanderings of the last three decades., Everything you ever wanted to know about the making of the popular Prince movie--and much more.Beyond the minutiae of moviemaking and who was sleeping with whom, the book is particularly incisive in providing context, showing how video technology and black crossover artists were changing the marketplace. A few of the revelations are real howlers...But mainly, Light commemorates an anniversary that might otherwise have passed without much notice. A must-read for the Prince die-hards who have remained devoted through the musical meanderings of the last three decades.