Dizzy. The Life and Times of John Birks Gillespie

by Donald L. Maggin

This is by far the most revealing (because best researched), most fascinating, and best written biography about Dizzy Gillespie and his times yet available. It contains uniquely informative musical explanations of Dizzy's contributions to be-bop and his use of Afro-Cuban elements in jazz, propelling that music from the Swing Era into jazz of today and tomorrow. Also presents the social and historical context of Dizzy's story, from cotton picking in Cheraw, South Carolina to world renown and jazz immortality. There are some interesting black & white photos included.

Genres: Biography, Music, Jazz, History

422 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2005

Reviews

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of one of the primary creators of Be-Bop and Afro-Cuban music trumpeter John Birks Gillespie. This journalistic telling of Dizzy's humble beginnings in the rural south, to him becoming world renowned through his innovations in his chosen art form. This reading is a blend of musicology, and a who's who in the world of jazz music.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great details, bibliography type....

[Timothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a simple biography of talented man. Since the life of Dizzy Gillespie ran parallel with WWII, the Civil Rights movement and the 60's (whatever that decade was about) it is safe to say that following his tale is to follow America through decades of promise and pratfalls. Plus, the guy could just play. Those first recordings of "Salt Peanuts" are like hearing basement tapes from late 80's Seatle or seeing a scrawny Bob Dylan in the Village; they're raw, fun and exciting.

[jalylah · Rating 4 out of 5]

He begins Dizzy's bio with a detailed history of the white people who owned Dizzy's patrilineal ancestors. It was a poor choice. It centers whiteness. It is otherwise detailed, some times excessively, but there is the titular reference to both the life and times and he certainly fleshes out the times. A lot of musicological language and analysis, which the author takes great pains and pages to explain. I feel like I learned a great deal.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book goes into great detail about Dizzy and all the musicians he played with. It is interesting to read about be-bop and how it all got started. The book also goes into great detail about the structure of the rhythms and methodology of Dizzy's playing. This is great if you are a music buff and a fan of Dizzy, Duke, Ella, Charlie and the gang.

[dora · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting life this guy had.writing is kind of dry and tends to get into muical technicalities that i am unable to follow not being a musician myself. think i might be better off reading the man's own memoirs? yeah probably!

[Charles Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

some great parts some boring parts ineresting to see a musician's life