Lisa's Book Recommendations

Take a Walk on the Dark Side: Rock and roll myths, legends, and curses (by R. Gary Patterson)
Including chapters entitled "Mr. Crowley," "Waiting at the Crossroads," "Welcome to the Hotel California," and others, Patterson's book covers the tales and ironies that have cursed rock 'n' roll and its icons. Patterson also reveals the mysteries behind hidden messages in songs you've always wondered about.

Classic Rock Stories (by Tim Morse)
A great collection of stories, memories, recollections, and opinions of some of the most beloved rock stars.

Here are some things I learned from reading this book (more useless knowledge--just what I need):

• "Dust in the Wind" wasn't supposed to be a song. It's original form was actually a finger-picking exercise that Kerry Livgren was working on. In fact, Kerry fought with the rest of the members of Kansas over doing the song. "This is not us," he would keep saying.
• Keith Emerson thought his Moog synth solo in "Lucky Man" was "shit." It was completely improvised, and the rough version ended up making the cut.
• The song "Bad Company" by Bad Company was recorded at night in a field in one take.
• Elton John and Bernie Taupin have no idea what "Take Me to the Pilot" is about. It's all just a bunch of jibberish.