Non-Fiction Biography Memoir Audiobook History

Quick Take

"After forty-six years of being on the road, this is the right time to look back in a way I've never done before: now and then. This is the story of my life in rock and roll -- and how the band that has meant everything to me came to define me. I'm looking forward to sharing it with you." Mick Fleetwood has been a member of the ever-evolving Fleetwood Mac, one of the world's most successful and adored bands, for over four decades. Here he tells the full and candid story of his life as one of music's greatest drummers and bandleaders, the cofounder of the deeply loved supergroup that bears his name and that of his bandmate and lifelong friend John McVie.In this intimate portrait of a life lived in music, Fleetwood vividly recalls his upbringing tapping along to every song playing on the radio, his experiences as a musician in '60s London, and the earliest permutation of the band featuring Peter Green.Play On sheds new light on Fleetwood Mac's raucous history, describing the highs and lows of being in the band that Fleetwood was determined to keep together. Here he reflects on the creation of landmark albums such as Rumours and Tusk, the great loves of his life, and the many incredible and outrageous moments of recording, touring, and living with Fleetwood Mac. Fleetwood describes these moments with honesty and immediacy, taking us to the very heart of this multilayered journey that has always been anchored in music.Through it all, from intense love to plaintive heartaches, from collaborations to confrontations, it's been the drive to play on that has prevailed. Now, then, and always, it's Fleetwood Mac.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Play On: Now, Then, And Fleetwood Mac

Introduction

"Play On: Now, Then, And Fleetwood Mac" by Mick Fleetwood is a candid and intimate memoir that takes readers on a journey through the life of one of rock and roll's most influential figures. As the longtime drummer and cofounder of the iconic band Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood shares his experiences, both personal and professional, in this captivating book. From his upbringing to his time in '60s London, to the creation of landmark albums such as "Rumours" and "Tusk," Mick Fleetwood offers a unique perspective on the band's history and his own role in it.

About Mick Fleetwood

Mick Fleetwood (born Michael John Kells Fleetwood in Cornwall, June 24, 1947) is the longtime drummer in rock band Fleetwood Mac. With over four decades of experience in the music industry, Mick Fleetwood has played a significant role in shaping the sound and success of Fleetwood Mac. His story, told through "Play On," provides readers with an insightful look into his life and the band's history.

Analysis of Views

Honesty and Authenticity: Many readers appreciate Mick Fleetwood's willingness to share his personal experiences and struggles in the book. They find his honesty refreshing and believe it adds depth to his story.
Insight into Fleetwood Mac's History: Readers enjoy learning about the early days of Fleetwood Mac, including the formation of the band and the contributions of Peter Green. Mick Fleetwood's narrative provides a unique perspective on the band's evolution and highlights key moments in their history.
Engaging Storytelling: Mick Fleetwood's storytelling style is praised for its ability to captivate readers. His vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes bring the band's journey to life, making it a compelling read for fans of Fleetwood Mac and music enthusiasts alike.
Honorable Mention: Some readers mention that Mick Fleetwood's admittance to his mistakes and personal shortcomings adds a level of relatability to his story. They appreciate his candidness and feel that it adds depth to his character.
Lack of Comprehensive Coverage: A few readers express disappointment that the book focuses primarily on Mick Fleetwood's personal experiences rather than providing a more comprehensive history of Fleetwood Mac as a band. They feel that the book could have delved deeper into the band's collective journey and their impact on popular music.

Reasons for Recommendation

Personal Perspective: Mick Fleetwood's personal perspective adds value to the book by providing readers with an authentic insight into his life and experiences within the band. His candidness makes it easier for readers to connect with him and understand his journey.
Engaging Storytelling: Mick Fleetwood's storytelling style is praised for its ability to captivate readers and bring the band's journey to life. His vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes make for an engaging read that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Insight into Fleetwood Mac's History: Readers appreciate the opportunity to learn about the early days of Fleetwood Mac and gain a deeper understanding of key moments in their history. Mick Fleetwood's narrative provides a unique perspective that complements existing knowledge about the band.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Comprehensive Coverage: Some readers feel that the book lacks a comprehensive overview of Fleetwood Mac's history as a band. They believe that it focuses too heavily on Mick Fleetwood's personal experiences and could have delved deeper into the band's collective journey and impact on popular music.
Repetitive Content: A few readers mention that the book feels repetitive in certain sections, as it covers similar ground as Mick Fleetwood's previous memoir. They feel that recycling material from previous works detracts from the overall experience and diminishes the value of this book.

Conclusion

"Play On: Now, Then, And Fleetwood Mac" by Mick Fleetwood offers readers a candid and intimate look into the life of one of rock and roll's most influential figures. Through his personal experiences and insights into the history of Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood provides a unique perspective on the band's journey and his own role in it. While some readers feel that the book lacks comprehensive coverage of Fleetwood Mac's history, others appreciate its engaging storytelling and authenticity. Overall, "Play On" is recommended for fans of Fleetwood Mac, music enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the behind-the-scenes stories of one of rock music's most iconic bands.