Book Review Summary: It Came From Memphis

Introduction

"It Came From Memphis" by Robert Gordon is a captivating book that delves into the lesser-known corners of Memphis' musical history. Rather than focusing on the well-trodden paths of Elvis Presley, Al Green, and the Sun/Stax studios, Gordon shines a spotlight on artists like Jim Dickinson, Alex Chilton, and bands like the MarKeys and Big Star. Through his lens, Gordon explores the story of white teenagers caught in the midst of an extraordinary confluence of music, entrepreneurship, and cultural change. The result is a vivid account of rock 'n' roll and Memphis, its alma mater.

About Robert Gordon

Robert Gordon, the author of "It Came From Memphis," is a respected music writer and historian. His knowledge and passion for the subject matter shine through in his writing, making him a reliable guide for those interested in the history of Memphis-based rock & roll. With his ability to balance humor and reverence, Gordon brings the stories of Memphis' musical pioneers to life in a way that engages both casual readers and die-hard fans.

Analysis of Views

1. Expanding Perspectives: Many readers praise "It Came From Memphis" for its ability to shed light on the lesser-known aspects of Memphis' musical history. Rather than focusing solely on the well-known names and venues, Gordon delves into the stories of artists and bands that have been overlooked by mainstream narratives. This approach provides readers with a fresh perspective on the city's musical landscape.

2. Detailed Research: Gordon's extensive research and attention to detail are highly appreciated by readers. He delves into the lives and works of various musicians, providing a comprehensive account of their contributions to Memphis' musical scene. This level of depth allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the city's musical heritage and the factors that shaped it.

3. Engaging Storytelling: Gordon's storytelling skills are highly commended by readers. He weaves together a narrative that is both engaging and informative, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the world he describes. His ability to bring the characters and events to life makes "It Came From Memphis" a compelling read for both music enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

4. Accessible Writing: Despite its depth, "It Came From Memphis" is praised for its accessible writing style. Gordon manages to convey complex ideas and historical events in a way that is accessible to readers with varying levels of knowledge about Memphis' musical scene. This accessibility makes it an excellent resource for those looking to learn more about the city's musical heritage.

5. Enthusiasm and Passion: Readers appreciate Gordon's enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter. His love for Memphis' musical history shines through in his writing, making it contagious for readers. His genuine admiration for the artists and bands he writes about adds an extra layer of depth to the book, making it more than just a historical account.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Expanded Perspectives: "It Came From Memphis" offers readers a unique perspective on Memphis' musical history by focusing on lesser-known artists and bands. This approach provides a fresh take on the city's musical landscape, allowing readers to discover new stories and gain a deeper understanding of the city's musical heritage.

2. Detailed Research: Robert Gordon's extensive research and attention to detail make "It Came From Memphis" an invaluable resource for those interested in learning more about Memphis' musical scene. The book provides readers with a comprehensive account of various musicians' contributions and the factors that shaped the city's musical landscape.

3. Engaging Storytelling: Gordon's engaging storytelling style makes "It Came From Memphis" an enjoyable read for both music enthusiasts and casual readers alike. His ability to bring characters and events to life makes it easy for readers to become immersed in the world he describes, making it a highly recommended book for anyone interested in Memphis' musical history.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Lack of Familiarity: Some readers may find "It Came From Memphis" lacking in familiarity as it focuses on lesser-known artists and bands. If readers are primarily interested in the well-known names and venues associated with Memphis' musical history, they may find this book less appealing. However, those seeking a deeper understanding of the city's musical landscape beyond the mainstream narratives may find it highly rewarding.

2. Limited Focus on Elvis: While "It Came From Memphis" does not focus solely on Elvis Presley, some readers may find it lacking in coverage of his contributions to Memphis' musical scene. Elvis is undoubtedly one of the most significant figures in Memphis' musical history, and those seeking a more comprehensive account of his impact may find this book less satisfying in that regard. However, it should be noted that Gordon does touch upon Elvis' significance within the broader context of Memphis' musical landscape.

Conclusion

"It Came From Memphis" by Robert Gordon is a highly recommended book for anyone interested in exploring the lesser-known aspects of Memphis' musical history. With its engaging storytelling, detailed research, and passionate writing, Gordon brings to life the stories of artists and bands that have been overlooked by mainstream narratives. Whether you are a die-hard fan or simply curious about Memphis' musical heritage, this book offers a fresh perspective on one of America's most iconic cities and its contributions to rock 'n' roll culture.