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The Rejects: An Alternative History of Popular Music
Imagine you've made it. You and your friends have hit the big time in music and you're going to be a star. But then, quite suddenly, it's over. Your best friends don't want you anymore, and you're on the outside. Perhaps they're tired of your bad habits, they think you're not good enough, or they sense you just don't want it as much as they do. Whatever the cause, you're a reject. So, what do you do next?
Featuring a player rejected by both Nirvana and Soundgarden who became a decorated special forces soldier, Britpoppers who spiralled into addiction before becoming novelists and missionaries, the terrifying story of Guns N' Roses' first drummer, super-rejecting band leaders, self-destroying rappers, troubled hard rock bassists and girl-band burnouts, The Rejects takes an intimate, thoughtful look at people who've been kicked out of bands, what they experienced and what came afterwards.
Coming from a writer with twenty years' music industry experience, The Rejects is a sympathetic study of some of music's most fascinating characters, and what happens when the dream comes crashing to an end. The result is a compelling alternative history of popular music.
Featuring a player rejected by both Nirvana and Soundgarden who became a decorated special forces soldier, Britpoppers who spiralled into addiction before becoming novelists and missionaries, the terrifying story of Guns N' Roses' first drummer, super-rejecting band leaders, self-destroying rappers, troubled hard rock bassists and girl-band burnouts, The Rejects takes an intimate, thoughtful look at people who've been kicked out of bands, what they experienced and what came afterwards.
Coming from a writer with twenty years' music industry experience, The Rejects is a sympathetic study of some of music's most fascinating characters, and what happens when the dream comes crashing to an end. The result is a compelling alternative history of popular music.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 27, 2024
As a reader of a certain age, I could relate more to some of the older bands featured, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie etc etc, however, I was fascinated by Jason Everman, Tony O'Neill and Wiley. It never ceases to amaze me that members of the bands you had or have on your wall probably don't get along that well and that some of the most driven people need a stooge to get them through. It was an insightful read, and I'm sure it's one I will return to.
October 19, 2025
I am a music fan. Not a music geek as so many of my friends are. This book taught me some history and band knowledge that I feel I have inched my way towards geekdom. And I am proud and happy for it.
It’s an enjoyable read with some nice insight into the authors life.
It’s an enjoyable read with some nice insight into the authors life.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews