Let the Good Times Roll: My Life in Small Faces, Faces, and The Who - Kenney Jones

This is such a good easy read by one of the sixties great drummers - who was in three of the top tier of bands between the 60’s and the 80’s : Small Faces,Faces and the Who.

Like so many drummers from that period (Charlie Watts , Keith Moon and Ginger Baker come to mind) - Jones was influenced by the great jazz drummers of the swing era.

The speed of which the Small Faces found commercial success is astonishing - considering they were in their teens.

Additionally the musicianship and skill of all the four members is remarkable for the meteoric speed in which they developed.

Fronted by the great Steve Marriott one of the best soul blues singers of his generation and no slouch as a guitarist or hit songwriter either - the Small Faces were a key part of the soundtrack of the 60’s.

The music business exploitation is also discussed - but done in a way that is clear and conversational- and never tedious or overtly detailed.

Band politics and personalities are also addressed in all three bands, which gives a fascinating inside look into the inner workings of these three great bands.

Huge gigs such as the Who at Live Aid in 1985 are revisited, which offers a rare glimpse into “behind the scenes” at a historic event - warts and all!

 

I would recommend this book highly for any of us who bought the records as they came out and love the music.

Its a great read and wonderful that Kenny Jones has done this book.

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