Sound Pictures

The Life of Beatles Producer George Martin, The Later Years, 1966-2016

By: Kenneth Womack

Narrated by: Paul Woodson

Sound Pictures traces the story of the Beatles' breathtaking artistic trajectory after reaching the creative heights of Rubber Soul. As the bandmates engage in brash experimentation both inside and outside the studio, Martin toils along with manager Brian Epstein to consolidate the Beatles' fame in the face of growing sociocultural pressures, including the crisis associated with the "Beatles are more popular than Jesus" scandal.  

Meanwhile, he also struggles to make his way as an independent producer in the highly competitive world of mid-1960s rock 'n' roll. As Martin and the Beatles create one landmark album after another, including such masterworks as Revolver, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles (The White Album), and Abbey Road, the internal stakes and interpersonal challenges become ever greater.  

During his post-Beatles years, Martin attempts to discover new vistas of sound recording with a host of acts, including Jeff Beck, America, Cheap Trick, Paul McCartney, and Elton John, his creative breakthroughs followed by unprecedented commercial success. Eventually, though, all roads bring Martin back to the Beatles, as the group seeks out new ways to memorialize their achievement under the supervision of the man who has come to be known as Sir George.

©2018 Kenneth Womack (P)2018 Tantor

Must reading for any musician that loves Beatles l

Must reading for any musician that loves Beatles. Masters functioning in a perfect storm of genius.

Very informative

The narration was excellent. The details of how the songs were produced was amazing. George Martin was truly the 5th Beatle

great book about a towering music legend

the second installment in the story of a great man who was instrumental in bringing the music we all know and love to life ends with the rest of his accomplishments after the Beatles told in detail and gives you the complete picture of the life of one of the music world's best producers. Great book recommended to all who hold an interest in music and simply a great biography.

Wonderfully told the story of one of the most important cultural figures of our time

The Beatles were the most important cultural influence during the last 60 years, and without George Martin, they would not have been what they ended up being. George Martin, with his quiet confidence, with and intelligence did much more than simply record the group well; he absolutely contributed to the compositions and added inspiration to the process. The story was wonderfully written, and the narrator was first class, often reading the quotations in the voice of the person quoted.

Excellent book!

Great book and narrator! I enjoyed it very much. Very well written and presented. Thanks!