Guitar King

Michael Bloomfield's Life in the Blues

By: David Dann

Narrated by: Michael Butler Murray

Named one of the world's great blues-rock guitarists by Rolling Stone, Mike Bloomfield (1943-1981) remains beloved by fans nearly 40 years after his untimely death. Taking listeners backstage, onstage, and into the recording studio with this legendary virtuoso, David Dann tells the riveting stories behind Bloomfield's work in the seminal Paul Butterfield Blues Band and the mesmerizing Electric Flag, as well as the Super Session album with Al Kooper and Stephen Stills, Bob Dylan's Highway 61 Revisited, and soundtrack work with Peter Fonda and Jack Nicholson.

In vivid chapters drawn from meticulous research, including more than 70 interviews with the musician's friends, relatives, and band members, music historian David Dann brings to life Bloomfield's worlds, from his comfortable upbringing in a Jewish family on Chicago's North Shore to the gritty taverns and raucous nightclubs where this self-taught guitarist helped transform the sound of contemporary blues and rock music. With scenes that are as electrifying as Bloomfield's music, this is the story of a life lived at full volume.

©2019 David Dann (P)2020 Tantor

great writing!

I didn’t care much for the style of the reader but thoroughly enjoyed the book.

thems that can do and thems that can't bitch about everyone else.

this story isn't for me as that I liked his music however didn't dig the way he put others down. i.e. not my jam🤣

Why so long?

Spoiler alert: The author often goes into great detail describing (what seems like) nearly every note played on a multitude of performances. The option for an abridged version would be greatly appreciated. The story is very entertaining and informative, however. After listening, you should come away with an appreciation for the contributions Michael Bloomfield made to music and his influence as a musician.

About a just-about-forgotten talented guitar player

This is a thoroughly researched tome about a majorly talented guitarist who should be up there with Clapton and Hendrix etc. For some reason he is never mentioned in the lists of top guitar players although he played with Bob Dylan, Janice Joplin, Van Morrison, and other major artists in addition to being a much sought after solo musician.

The very informative summary is great

It was repetitive and drawn out sometimes but overall was a great story about the Best Guitar Player to the blues and what every he wants to play and how it mattered