MUSIC SMARTS on the Cover of MUSIC CONNECTION

We’re thrilled that Mr. Bonzai’s MUSIC SMARTS made the cover of Music Connection for the feature “Why Books Still Matter.”

(From the Book) A GRACE NOTE BY GRAHAM NASH “This world is powered by images and energy. What the author/photographer did here was to present a small slice of our musical heritage — a slice that includes many of my personal heroes. Look into these faces, seek out their stories and enjoy this wonderful, insightful journey.”

Preface “My musical odyssey began on September 29, 1967, when I walked into Abbey Road recording studios as a guest of John Lennon, who introduced me to George, Paul, Ringo, George Martin, Neil Aspinall, Peter Brown, and Mal Evans. It was the night the finishing touches were being recorded for “I Am the Walrus.” As the lone outsider, I heard snippets of other songs, too, all of which I knew were predestined to become part of our eventual consciousness. I witnessed a musical powerhouse, yet one which was as low-key as your grandma’s kitchen.

You might say I spied a signpost. The road led to over 500 formal interviews, clandestine meetings, outrageous lunchings, startling conversations on the hoof and happenstance encounters to collect what lies before you. Herein are spur of the moment ejaculations, witty nuggets, and solemn judgments, cherry-picked from over a million words, not to mention some provocative photo sessions.

Step into this gallery of the musical life, lined with intriguing reflections on heroes, influences, artistic integrity, improvisation, collaboration, performance, recording, power, money, fame, and rejection—all in one bountiful obento box stocked with hard-won wisdom, surprising pratfalls, stark realizations, and not what you might expect.

I hope you enjoy and are enriched by these crystal quotations. I am continuously inspired when fellow humans show me their faces and tell me their stories.”

– Mr. Bonzai

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