Description: The definitive story of George Martin's later years, producing the Beatles and beyond.
Sound Pictures traces the story of George Martin and the Beatles' incredible artistic trajectory after reaching the creative heights of Rubber Soul. As the bandmates engage in brash experimentation, creating 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 are followed by unprecedented commercial success. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the Beatles, music production, and the life of a true musical innovator.
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"They seemed an unlikely partnership--the Beatles, who knew everything about rock and roll music, and their classically trained producer George Martin, who knew very little. But as Kenneth Womack uncovers in this engrossing and forensically detailed biography, the recording studio became a 'magic workshop' and George Martin a musical wizard when it came to the Beatles' songs. A fascinating read." --Ray Connolly, author of Being Elvis "An authoritative account of pop-music history and the man who helped shape it." --Kirkus Reviews "George Martin transformed the role of 'producer' as much as the Beatles transformed our idea of a 'band, ' so Kenneth Womack's engaging account of Martin's life fills a major hole on pop music's shelf. For a rich, illuminating understanding of how the Beatles catalog transcends song, performance, and arrangement, jump through this hogshead of real fire: tonight, George Martin tops the bill." --Tim Riley, author of Tell Me Why and Lennon: Man, Myth, Music "A marvelous magical mystery tour behind the wizard's curtain--one that leaves us with a deep understanding of one of the key architects of pop culture. Essential reading for anyone who's ever had a soundtrack to their dreams." --Vivek J. Tiwary, author of The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story "The book contains enough fresh information and informed insight about the group's early years to satisfy the most devout Beatlemaniac."--ForeWord Reviews "Beatles fans will love this and look forward to Womack's continuation of the Martin story." --Booklist Online