A unique glimpse into some of the biggest stars of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, Alvin Taylor’s new book Drum Major 2 Major Drummer is one not to miss if you are a rock and popular music fan. Rick Allen, from legendary band Def Leppard, thinks so too- as noted in his quote above.
It is a fascinating story about a little boy who grew up on an Indian Reservation in a small town, dreaming of being a drummer in the music industry. He starts out by being a drum major in the Palm Springs High School Marching Band and ends up becoming a highly successful session drummer at the age of 16 years old. Feel the experience, gain knowledge about the music industry and what rock ‘n roll is all about. These are lessons not learned in school. This is the lifestyle of a musician who shares his experience, strength and hope. The book reveals the following:
- An inside peek at what it was like playing with individual artists such as; George Harrison, Elton John, Tina Turner, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Little Richard, Billy Preston, Stevie Nicks, and many more.
- What impact did these celebrities have on Alvin Taylor?
- Encounter some of the true-life experiences, of cultures and lifestyles, while being on the road performing and traveling as a rock drummer
- What was the drug scene really like, and how did it impact Alvin’s life personally?
- What was life like after living in Hollywood, without all the “Glitz and Glamour”
- What do other drummers, musicians and famous recording artists in the music industry say about Alvin Taylor?
In the book are many never-before heard stories and insights about some of the most popular musical artists of all time, relayed in an intimate first-person narrative.
But the book is much more than that. We learn about Alvin’s youth growing up on a Native American reservation in the heart of 1950’s Palm Springs. We hear of his upbringing and how he learned to play the drums, as well as his work in his first local bands. We also see the temptations and downsides of being successful in the music business. Drug abuse, loneliness, ruthless managers and producers, and run-ins with the law.
You may not have heard of his name prior, but now you have. Alvin Taylor: Drum Major 2 Major Drummer is a worthwhile read.
