Richard Manuel - by Stephen T Lewis (Hardcover)

About the Book

For the first time, the Band's legendary Richard Manuel's compositions and performances are analyzed with expert commentary while shining a light on his contributions to all of his bands--and on the undeniable impact he had on rock music.

Book Synopsis

Sweetly soulful and creatively multifaceted, Richard Manuel of the Band left an indelible mark on rock history.

From pivotal moments like Bob Dylan's controversial move to electric music to Woodstock and the Last Waltz, Manuel's journey unfolds in this first-ever biography.

Through insightful analysis and interviews, his troubled yet inspired spirit is contextualized within music history. From his role in forming the Band to his iconic vocals and songwriting, Manuel's influence resonates deeply.

Classics like "Tears of Rage" and "I Shall Be Released" showcase his lyrical prowess and emotional depth.

Despite success, Manuel battled personal demons, succumbing tragically in 1986. His legacy lives on, inspiring generations of musicians and fans.

This book celebrates Manuel's immeasurable contributions to music, ensuring his soulful voice and profound artistry endure in the annals of rock.

Review Quotes

Having spent many a long night with Richard, I believe this book beautifully captures the essence of the brilliant musician to an extraordinary detail--to the point where you can actually hear the words. 'He lived, he breathed, he died with his music.'--Corky Laing, drummer with Mountain

I love this book! Like a slow blues, Stephen T. Lewis takes you through every heartbreak, the beer-soaked floors of juke joints and the sweat-stained clothes from long hours on stage, Richard Manuel's entire life and the Dickensian cast of characters he intersected with. His musical descriptions of the bands Richard played with carry the ring of truth. The stories are endless. I could not give the book a rest. Absolutely brilliant!
--Bill Payne, co-founder and keyboardist with Little Feat

It's hard to imagine American music in the sixties and seventies without The Band, even though they never quite got the attention and sales they deserved. Yet the country/folk/blues end of rock would not have existed without them. And though other band members got more attention, Richard Manuel's voice and classic blues piano were at the very core of that music. Which is why Stephen Lewis' Richard Manuel deserves serious attention. It fills a major gap in our understanding.--Dennis McNally, author of A Long Strange Trip: The Inside History of the Grateful Dead

Richard was a dear friend, a great singer and songwriter, and a key member of the greatest rock band that ever played.--Eric Clapton, guitarist and singer-songwriter