Walking Disaster

My Life Through Heaven and Hell

By: Deryck Whibley

Narrated by: Deryck Whibley

This candid memoir of music, fame, endurance, “true triumphs, and challenges” (Matt Pinfield, DJ and TV host) from Deryck Whibley, lead singer of Sum 41, follows his rise from a punk kid to an international star. With a new afterword.

From his earliest days growing up in Canada, Deryck Whibley loved music and couldn’t wait to achieve something bigger and better than the humble path that lay before him. Whibley was raised by a single mom and their small family constantly moved, so he was used to being the new kid, starting fights (or finishing them), and connecting with people who shared his sensibility for chaotic fun and loud music. Sum 41 was born of a group of friends who loved to jam, shared a DIY ethos, and were determined to be rock stars one day.

Walking Disaster is Whibley’s story, but it is also the untold story of Sum 41. It “barrels in like a tornado of extreme highs and lows” (Los Angeles Times) as Whibley takes you backstage, into the recording booth, and through the formation and rise of the band whose story is inextricably woven with his own.

With his insightful, earnest, and genuine voice, Whibley gets real about fame, fortune, and the music industry. Detailing everything from winning at the MTV Video Music Awards and being nominated for a Grammy to revisiting his high-profile relationships and friendships, contending with invasive paparazzi, and suffering from health issues that brought him to the brink, Whibley offers an insightful and unforgettable memoir.

Interesting story

I really enjoyed the listening to Deryck's life story. It even goes over what he was thinking and experiencing during each of the albums. Deryck narrated it which made it even more enjoyable. Been a fan since maybe the first album so definitely worth the listen.

Gave me insight to the band I love

This story was very well told and covered so much. The honesty Deryck gave to us is very much felt. The fact that he read it made it more personal and connected as if he was just a friend telling you his story. Thanks Deryck!

A Must Read

A must read for anyone who has ever listened to any Sum 41 song. It’s a vulnerable, hilarious, tragic and intriguing memoir that gives a profound new meaning to all of Deryck’s song writing. I could not stop listening! Hearing the author read it himself gave that deeper connection to the story as well. Definitely a lot of traumatic themes and insight into the dark side of the music industry. Thank you for sharing your story Deryck!

Who knew Canadians were so well spoken!

Amazing story and well written! Always rooting for you and excited for part 2 down the road

Raw, amazing memoir

Deryck did a phenomenal job describing both his personal journey and that of the band. Appreciated author narration and the plugs of music throughout. I wanted to finish it, but now I’m sad it’s finished! Great read/listen.