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Going Crazy: Left Foot, Right Foot, Breathe
Going Crazy (Left foot, right foot, breathe) is a candid look at the inner workings of professional songwriting. It is also an honest, vulnerable memoir about overcoming life's trials and tribulations. James has lived an inspiring story of going from a small-town country boy to living and thriving in the big city of Los Angeles, then back again. Revealing his own faults and missteps along with subsequent lessons learned, James shares his journey rich with poignant details about how he not only survived but has flourished both personally and professionally.Filled with humor and raw emotion, Going Crazy (Left foot, right foot, breathe) is a testament to all-American grit, perseverance, and integrity. Tim James still writes and performs while continuing to have his songs recorded by some of the biggest names in country music. He is the father of two teenagers and two dogs, happily living in his hometown.
210 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
June 25, 2024
Tim James is not a name many people know, yet such is the plight of the songwriter. The songwriter is the person in the background helping along a popular singer’s inspiration with their own inspiration. But when he set out at a young age to create a life for himself beyond the country life he was raised in, he never knew that one day his calling would turn out to be as a songwriter. In “Going Crazy (Left Foot, Right Foot, Breathe),” Tim James shares how he set out to find himself, find his purpose in life, and hopefully find love. He faces a lot of roadblocks to get there, but he keeps getting back up and he keeps going.
While he shares some stories about how he got into fights with people, I liked how he would be cool with some of those people later and laugh it off. However, it does not always go this way. That one moment as a teenager in which something snapped in him, and he allowed himself to respond to bullying with violence, set him on a bad course where this was often his default reaction when it came to bullies.
At one point, his short fuse gets him into serious trouble. So serious, in fact, that he has to reach out to family for help. Here was a guy determined to eke out a life for himself on his own, but sometimes we need to reach out to others for help.
I have learned that a man better get used to the taste of humble pie, because it gets served to you throughout your life… ( page 52)
There are many times in the book where he asks, “Was I going crazy?” And even at one point, when he decides to return to Los Angeles after recovering at home in Tennessee from a gang attack, his mother asks, “Are you insane?” Well, some people may think that certain things he did were “insane,” but I did not see them that way. As a matter of fact, I admired his courage, persistence, and ambition. These are good qualities for anyone to have, but for someone constantly facing setbacks, it’s even more admirable that they press on. And that’s exactly what the author did. Perhaps it was his faith in God that kept him going no matter what happened, as he does share his strong faith.
During the second time that he lived in LA, he just jumped from one thing to another while working a 9-to-5 job. But then he has that “a-ha” moment after witnessing how other people in LA just weren’t into that sort of thing. They believed in chasing their dreams, just like his friend the struggling screenwriter who finally breaks in as a playwright. And when that moment hits him, he realizes, “This is what I must do with my life!”
So many guys were in the entertainment business and some of them did say to chase the dream because life is too short not to. We have to do what we love and love what we do. I loved music. (page 82)
From that point on, everything changes. He knows what he MUST do and goes after it!
To those who think you’re going crazy… we all have a little bit of crazy. Learn to use your crazy to your advantage. (page 195)
I’ll admit, I wondered why James included his laments about the problems he was having in his marriage and how he didn’t seem to know what love was anymore. But then I realized; this guy is a country man. He writes country music. Music with soul. Lamenting about problems with love and about marriage issues is all a part of the country music scene, so it’s only natural that this is in his book. And that whole last chapter can be something like a song of survival. That’s how I saw it, anyway. If there’s anyone better suited to write such a song, it is this guy! Because he IS a survivor.
Overall, this book was an inspiring memoir and I enjoyed reading it. I especially enjoyed reading about his career as a songwriter and how hard he worked to keep that career afloat. In that sort of business, your one big hit will stop being a hit at some point. This was an important lesson to learn, and it was what made him realize he had to keep putting in the time and effort as a professional songwriter to remain in good standing as one.
“Going Crazy” is an inspirational memoir of finding your mission in life and staying true to your roots. It’s about keeping faith and remaining focused no matter what life throws at you. A compelling and captivating read, Tim James’ “Going Crazy” just may inspire others to go after their dreams despite the negativity of others.
And despite what he writes at the end, he should know that he will survive. He’s a country boy! As Hank Williams Jr. once sang, A country boy can survive.
While he shares some stories about how he got into fights with people, I liked how he would be cool with some of those people later and laugh it off. However, it does not always go this way. That one moment as a teenager in which something snapped in him, and he allowed himself to respond to bullying with violence, set him on a bad course where this was often his default reaction when it came to bullies.
At one point, his short fuse gets him into serious trouble. So serious, in fact, that he has to reach out to family for help. Here was a guy determined to eke out a life for himself on his own, but sometimes we need to reach out to others for help.
I have learned that a man better get used to the taste of humble pie, because it gets served to you throughout your life… ( page 52)
There are many times in the book where he asks, “Was I going crazy?” And even at one point, when he decides to return to Los Angeles after recovering at home in Tennessee from a gang attack, his mother asks, “Are you insane?” Well, some people may think that certain things he did were “insane,” but I did not see them that way. As a matter of fact, I admired his courage, persistence, and ambition. These are good qualities for anyone to have, but for someone constantly facing setbacks, it’s even more admirable that they press on. And that’s exactly what the author did. Perhaps it was his faith in God that kept him going no matter what happened, as he does share his strong faith.
During the second time that he lived in LA, he just jumped from one thing to another while working a 9-to-5 job. But then he has that “a-ha” moment after witnessing how other people in LA just weren’t into that sort of thing. They believed in chasing their dreams, just like his friend the struggling screenwriter who finally breaks in as a playwright. And when that moment hits him, he realizes, “This is what I must do with my life!”
So many guys were in the entertainment business and some of them did say to chase the dream because life is too short not to. We have to do what we love and love what we do. I loved music. (page 82)
From that point on, everything changes. He knows what he MUST do and goes after it!
To those who think you’re going crazy… we all have a little bit of crazy. Learn to use your crazy to your advantage. (page 195)
I’ll admit, I wondered why James included his laments about the problems he was having in his marriage and how he didn’t seem to know what love was anymore. But then I realized; this guy is a country man. He writes country music. Music with soul. Lamenting about problems with love and about marriage issues is all a part of the country music scene, so it’s only natural that this is in his book. And that whole last chapter can be something like a song of survival. That’s how I saw it, anyway. If there’s anyone better suited to write such a song, it is this guy! Because he IS a survivor.
Overall, this book was an inspiring memoir and I enjoyed reading it. I especially enjoyed reading about his career as a songwriter and how hard he worked to keep that career afloat. In that sort of business, your one big hit will stop being a hit at some point. This was an important lesson to learn, and it was what made him realize he had to keep putting in the time and effort as a professional songwriter to remain in good standing as one.
“Going Crazy” is an inspirational memoir of finding your mission in life and staying true to your roots. It’s about keeping faith and remaining focused no matter what life throws at you. A compelling and captivating read, Tim James’ “Going Crazy” just may inspire others to go after their dreams despite the negativity of others.
And despite what he writes at the end, he should know that he will survive. He’s a country boy! As Hank Williams Jr. once sang, A country boy can survive.
May 6, 2024
James invites readers to join him on an extraordinary odyssey, tracing his journey from a small-town Tennessee lad to a revered country music songwriter in his debut memoir. The book transports readers from the author’s formative years in Murfreesboro to the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, where they witness the transformation of a young man fueled by ambition and a boundless thirst for life.
Readers are treated to a delightful array of personal anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of the author’s life journey. From whimsical daydreams of parasailing in Hawaii to nostalgic reflections on motocross bikes, watching the Tyson/Holyfield fight or running on the beach in Marina Del Rey, James’s storytelling is both entertaining and nostalgic. He adopts a lively, non-linear narrative style that infuses the book with a dynamic energy. Unlike traditional chronological storytelling, this approach weaves together moments from different stages of his life, creating a series of experiences that unfold in a fluid and engaging manner.
What distinguishes James’ writing is his sincere and unfiltered voice. His candid reflections on the wild and reckless moments of his youth, from one-night stands to heavy drinking, and to risky adventures, bring depth and authenticity to his story. He fearlessly lays bare his triumphs, trials, and brushes with mortality, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of his life. Yet, beneath all this bravado lies a complex character grappling with insecurity and uncertainty.
His journey is punctuated by moments of introspection and self-doubt, offering readers a nuanced portrait of a man striving to find his place in the world. A notable strength of the memoir is James’ ability to vividly evoke the essence of time and place, whether recounting carefree days in Los Angeles or navigating the tumultuous landscape of the country music industry.
Amidst vibrant anecdotes and encounters with Hollywood figures, James’ unwavering commitment to his craft shines brightly. Despite starting his music career relatively late and facing the common belief that music executives do not sign individuals in their mid-thirties, James persisted in pursuing his passion for songwriting. He continued to hone his craft, perform gigs, and collaborate with other musicians, showcasing his determination to succeed despite the odds.
However, the book is more than just a tale of triumph against adversity; it’s a deeply human story of love, loss, and resilience. Whether you’re a fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-told tale, this is a must-read.
Readers are treated to a delightful array of personal anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of the author’s life journey. From whimsical daydreams of parasailing in Hawaii to nostalgic reflections on motocross bikes, watching the Tyson/Holyfield fight or running on the beach in Marina Del Rey, James’s storytelling is both entertaining and nostalgic. He adopts a lively, non-linear narrative style that infuses the book with a dynamic energy. Unlike traditional chronological storytelling, this approach weaves together moments from different stages of his life, creating a series of experiences that unfold in a fluid and engaging manner.
What distinguishes James’ writing is his sincere and unfiltered voice. His candid reflections on the wild and reckless moments of his youth, from one-night stands to heavy drinking, and to risky adventures, bring depth and authenticity to his story. He fearlessly lays bare his triumphs, trials, and brushes with mortality, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of his life. Yet, beneath all this bravado lies a complex character grappling with insecurity and uncertainty.
His journey is punctuated by moments of introspection and self-doubt, offering readers a nuanced portrait of a man striving to find his place in the world. A notable strength of the memoir is James’ ability to vividly evoke the essence of time and place, whether recounting carefree days in Los Angeles or navigating the tumultuous landscape of the country music industry.
Amidst vibrant anecdotes and encounters with Hollywood figures, James’ unwavering commitment to his craft shines brightly. Despite starting his music career relatively late and facing the common belief that music executives do not sign individuals in their mid-thirties, James persisted in pursuing his passion for songwriting. He continued to hone his craft, perform gigs, and collaborate with other musicians, showcasing his determination to succeed despite the odds.
However, the book is more than just a tale of triumph against adversity; it’s a deeply human story of love, loss, and resilience. Whether you’re a fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-told tale, this is a must-read.
May 1, 2024
Going Crazy (Left Foot, Right Foot, Breathe), by Tim James, offers an introspective journey through his life, chronicled with raw honesty and engaging storytelling. Born and raised in Nashville, James's transition to Los Angeles marks a significant chapter in his life, where he explores a variety of careers, including acting, before finding his true calling as a professional songwriter. This memoir navigates through the intricate tapestry of his career, personal relationships, and mental health struggles.
Tim James’s life story is a testament to the richness of human experience. His childhood in Nashville is filled with adventurous undertones, setting the stage for his later life in Los Angeles. Here, James's narrative evolves from that of a carefree individual to a multifaceted adult, embracing roles as diverse as a baseball enthusiast, pharmaceutical company employee, aspiring actor, and, eventually, a celebrated songwriter.
James's memoir is punctuated with captivating moments. His pivotal decision between acting and a stable job showcases his thoughtful nature. Beyond his professional journey, James's personal attributes—his humor, ability to nurture friendships, and candidness—add layers to his character, making him an endearing figure. The memoir does not shy away from the adversities James faced. His recounting of near-death experiences, legal challenges, and a midlife crisis, alongside turbulent love stories, adds depth to his narrative. These stories, while poignant, are also inspiring, offering insights into resilience and personal growth.
Going Crazy (Left Foot, Right Foot, Breathe) is a compelling memoir that transcends the ordinary, making it a significant read for those who appreciate the genre. Tim James's life story, rich in experiences and emotions, is not just a recounting of events but a journey of transformation and resilience.
Tim James’s life story is a testament to the richness of human experience. His childhood in Nashville is filled with adventurous undertones, setting the stage for his later life in Los Angeles. Here, James's narrative evolves from that of a carefree individual to a multifaceted adult, embracing roles as diverse as a baseball enthusiast, pharmaceutical company employee, aspiring actor, and, eventually, a celebrated songwriter.
James's memoir is punctuated with captivating moments. His pivotal decision between acting and a stable job showcases his thoughtful nature. Beyond his professional journey, James's personal attributes—his humor, ability to nurture friendships, and candidness—add layers to his character, making him an endearing figure. The memoir does not shy away from the adversities James faced. His recounting of near-death experiences, legal challenges, and a midlife crisis, alongside turbulent love stories, adds depth to his narrative. These stories, while poignant, are also inspiring, offering insights into resilience and personal growth.
Going Crazy (Left Foot, Right Foot, Breathe) is a compelling memoir that transcends the ordinary, making it a significant read for those who appreciate the genre. Tim James's life story, rich in experiences and emotions, is not just a recounting of events but a journey of transformation and resilience.
September 28, 2025
This is definitely the best book I’ve read in a while. It was such a quick and captivating read. Relatable and a good therapy session.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews