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Glow: The Autobiography of Rick James: A Riveting Tale of Sex, Drugs, and Rock 'n' Roll

Duane Kelly

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Rick James was a musical pioneer and one of the most influential funk artists of all time. His autobiography, Glow, is a no-holds-barred account of his life as a groundbreaking musician and provocateur. From his early days as a child prodigy to his rise as a global superstar, James pulls no punches in recounting his triumphs and struggles.

Glow: The Autobiography of Rick James

by Rick James

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	53465 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages

Glow is a fascinating and often shocking read. James writes candidly about his drug use, his sexual escapades, and his brushes with the law. He also offers insights into his creative process and the making of some of his greatest hits.

Ultimately, Glow is a cautionary tale about the dangers of fame and excess. But it is also a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic figures in rock 'n' roll history.

A Child Prodigy

James was born James Ambrose Johnson Jr. in Buffalo, New York, in 1948. He began playing piano at the age of three and by the time he was a teenager, he was already a seasoned performer.

James' early influences included a wide range of musical styles, from jazz to soul to rock. He was also drawn to the work of avant-garde composers like John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen.

At the age of 17, James joined the Navy Band. He served for two years before being honorably discharged.

The Making of a Star

After leaving the Navy, James moved to Toronto, Canada, where he began his professional music career. He played in a variety of bands before forming his own group, the Stone City Band, in 1972.

The Stone City Band's debut album, Come Get It!, was released in 1974. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish James as a rising star.

James' follow-up album, Bustin' Out of L Seven, was even more successful. The album spawned the hit singles "You & I" and "Mary Jane."

By the late 1970s, James was one of the biggest stars in the world. He had sold millions of records and he was known for his flamboyant lifestyle and outrageous stage shows.

Excess and Addiction

James' success was accompanied by a growing addiction to drugs and alcohol. He became increasingly paranoid and erratic, and he often clashed with his bandmates and record label.

In 1982, James was arrested for assault and battery after a fight with his girlfriend. He was sentenced to two years in prison.

James' time in prison was a turning point in his life. He got clean and sober, and he began to reflect on his life and career.

A New Chapter

After his release from prison, James resumed his music career. He released a series of successful albums in the 1980s and 1990s, including the platinum-selling Street Songs and Fire It Up.

James also became a successful producer and songwriter. He wrote and produced hits for artists like Teena Marie, the Mary Jane Girls, and Eddie Murphy.

In 1993, James was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He died of a heart attack in 2004 at the age of 56.

Legacy

Rick James was a musical pioneer who helped to define the sound of funk music. He was a gifted songwriter and producer, and his songs have been covered by artists from all over the world.

James' personal life was often tumultuous, but he never lost his love of music. He was a true rock 'n' roll icon, and his music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.

Glow: A Candid and Unflinching Memoir

Glow is a must-read for fans of Rick James and for anyone interested in the history of rock 'n' roll. It is a candid and unflinching memoir that offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic musicians of all time.

In Glow, James writes about his childhood, his early musical influences, his rise to fame, and his struggles with addiction. He also offers insights into his creative process and the making of some of his greatest hits.

Glow is a fascinating and often shocking read. But it is also a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of one of the most important figures in rock 'n' roll history.

Rick James was a complex and controversial figure. He was a musical genius who struggled with addiction and personal demons. But he was also a generous and compassionate man who loved his family and friends.

Glow is a warts-and-all account of James' life. It is a fascinating and often shocking read, but it is also a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic figures in rock 'n' roll history.

Glow: The Autobiography of Rick James

by Rick James

4.7 out of 5