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Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Story
NATIONAL BESTSELLER
USA TODAY BESTSELLER
The definitive biography of the Everly Brothers, one of the greatest and most influential acts in popular music history, based on dozens of exclusive and archival interviews, as well as long-lost global reporting
In between the Elvis years and the rise of the Beatles, there was no bigger act than The Everly Brothers. From 1957-1962, they were among the highest selling pop acts in the U.S. In that time, they developed their own brand of rock ‘n' roll and gentle pop balladry that leaned heavily on older, close harmony styles of country music singing. “Wake Up, Little Susie,” “All I Have to Do Is Dream,” “Cathy’s Clown,” “Let it Be Me,” — their hits were legion and their sweet and sour Appalachian-style harmonies influenced everyone from The Beatles to Simon and Garfunkel to the Beach Boys to Crosby, Stills, and Nash. The Everly Brothers—Don and Phil—are inducted members of both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame, and progenitors of the hybrid Americana roots music format.
Blood The Everly Brothers Story is the first biography that’s focused on the dramatic, complicated relationship of these two famous and strikingly talented brothers, and explores how the evolution of their relationship played out in the much- loved music they created—through some sixty years of performing. Their story is the story of American music, from their rural Kentucky origins to massive international fame, falling out of fashion in the wake of the rise of rock bands and singer-songwriters, and their many comebacks.
Blood Harmony is a fitting ode to the brothers who made a huge impact on the modern music scene, celebrating how their creative "blood harmony" evolved to become an entry point into country music for millions around the world.
USA TODAY BESTSELLER
The definitive biography of the Everly Brothers, one of the greatest and most influential acts in popular music history, based on dozens of exclusive and archival interviews, as well as long-lost global reporting
In between the Elvis years and the rise of the Beatles, there was no bigger act than The Everly Brothers. From 1957-1962, they were among the highest selling pop acts in the U.S. In that time, they developed their own brand of rock ‘n' roll and gentle pop balladry that leaned heavily on older, close harmony styles of country music singing. “Wake Up, Little Susie,” “All I Have to Do Is Dream,” “Cathy’s Clown,” “Let it Be Me,” — their hits were legion and their sweet and sour Appalachian-style harmonies influenced everyone from The Beatles to Simon and Garfunkel to the Beach Boys to Crosby, Stills, and Nash. The Everly Brothers—Don and Phil—are inducted members of both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame, and progenitors of the hybrid Americana roots music format.
Blood The Everly Brothers Story is the first biography that’s focused on the dramatic, complicated relationship of these two famous and strikingly talented brothers, and explores how the evolution of their relationship played out in the much- loved music they created—through some sixty years of performing. Their story is the story of American music, from their rural Kentucky origins to massive international fame, falling out of fashion in the wake of the rise of rock bands and singer-songwriters, and their many comebacks.
Blood Harmony is a fitting ode to the brothers who made a huge impact on the modern music scene, celebrating how their creative "blood harmony" evolved to become an entry point into country music for millions around the world.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2025
45 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 15, 2025
This was an interesting biography about one the most famous brother duos in music history. They were known for the harmony as demonstrated in their many hits in the late 50s and early 60s. While their fame and popularity faded somewhat after that time period, they remained a force for upcoming groups. The author does an excellent job of portraying the highs and lows of their relationship and individual lives. This is a definite read for fans of the Everly Brothers and those who like to learn more about the musicians that have been leaders during their time.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my nonfiction book review blog.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my nonfiction book review blog.
August 2, 2025
This is the third essential book of musical history written by Mazor - he covered the legacy of Jimmy Rodgers and the life and influence of A&R man Ralph Peer in the first two. Those previous books taught me a whole lot about music I didn't know very well beforehand. This one taught me a whole lot about music I've loved for as long as I can remember.
I honestly don't remember which one, but I know I had an Everly Brothers 45 or two before I was 5 years old. And I know I watched their TV series as a summer replacement for Johnny Cash when I was 11 or so. I definitely first owned the impeccable collection of their hits put out on Arista Records in 1983 or 84. And I saw them live in concert in 1988. (My review of that concert for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is referenced in Mazor's book - he quotes me (uncredited, but there was no reason to mention me) quoting Phil Everly on stage that night.
Mazor is a meticulous researcher - there is no question in my mind that he has seen every extant filmed performance of the Brothers together or separately, and has read every review, interview, or gossip item about them published in their lives. Don and Phil Everly come alive as much as it's possible for them to do so in this book.
We follow their early musical paths with their parents, their breakthrough rock'n'roll creations, their battles with music publisher Wesley Rose and their attempts to follow their own muses as they changed record labels. We see them through huge success and we see their own popularity dwindle as people they influenced became huge. We follow them after they break up in 1973, and we see them come back together in 1983. We still can't figure out why they stopped recording together after 1986, though we now know a lot more about what they did in performance thereafter.
Their families, their wives (multiple for each), their relations with other musical greats, their side projects - all are covered thoroughly in this book. Mazor's prose is as solid as a Don Everly guitar riff, keeping every story, anecdote, quote, or simple background fact at just the right level of importance and interest.
The Everly Brothers made some of the greatest records of all time. They now have a book about their achievements that tells their story with insight, clear-headedness, and respect without losing touch with their human foibles and problems.
I honestly don't remember which one, but I know I had an Everly Brothers 45 or two before I was 5 years old. And I know I watched their TV series as a summer replacement for Johnny Cash when I was 11 or so. I definitely first owned the impeccable collection of their hits put out on Arista Records in 1983 or 84. And I saw them live in concert in 1988. (My review of that concert for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is referenced in Mazor's book - he quotes me (uncredited, but there was no reason to mention me) quoting Phil Everly on stage that night.
Mazor is a meticulous researcher - there is no question in my mind that he has seen every extant filmed performance of the Brothers together or separately, and has read every review, interview, or gossip item about them published in their lives. Don and Phil Everly come alive as much as it's possible for them to do so in this book.
We follow their early musical paths with their parents, their breakthrough rock'n'roll creations, their battles with music publisher Wesley Rose and their attempts to follow their own muses as they changed record labels. We see them through huge success and we see their own popularity dwindle as people they influenced became huge. We follow them after they break up in 1973, and we see them come back together in 1983. We still can't figure out why they stopped recording together after 1986, though we now know a lot more about what they did in performance thereafter.
Their families, their wives (multiple for each), their relations with other musical greats, their side projects - all are covered thoroughly in this book. Mazor's prose is as solid as a Don Everly guitar riff, keeping every story, anecdote, quote, or simple background fact at just the right level of importance and interest.
The Everly Brothers made some of the greatest records of all time. They now have a book about their achievements that tells their story with insight, clear-headedness, and respect without losing touch with their human foibles and problems.
July 29, 2025
Excellent overview of the career.
August 29, 2025
Mazor gives equal weight and mileage to every stage of the brothers’ lives; he keeps things moving even at moments when you know he (and you) are champing at the bit for a deeper dive, whether into matters professional or personal. For the most part this journalistic swiftness is appreciated. Much, if not all, of what’s here is armchair research, and though the author lists thirty interviewees, the absence of any involvement of Everly family members is pretty glaring and unfortunate (not that Don’s kids would have many stories of interactions with their dad).
I’ve been an Everly fan for many years and I was well satisfied with Blood Harmony. What hardcore fanatics remain these days may wind up asking for just a little more.
I’ve been an Everly fan for many years and I was well satisfied with Blood Harmony. What hardcore fanatics remain these days may wind up asking for just a little more.
April 8, 2025
Growing up, I listened to the local AM radio station every day, and often some nights with the little white earplug that came with transistor radios. The station played lots of Everly Brothers hit songs. Only I had no idea they were basically "oldies". Before reading this book, if someone had asked me when their hit songs were released, I would have replied all through the 1960s. Wrong. The last big hit for the Everly Brothers came out before 1962, years before I was old enough to listen to the radio day and night.
I also never knew how much Don and Phil Everly influenced other singers with their guitar playing and blood harmony. "Blood harmony" is a term used to describe an effortless type of harmony produced by siblings or other close relatives. Never knew there was such a thing, either, before reading this book. In addition, I did not know the brothers were teen idols, gracing the covers of teen magazines at least ten years before I was reading such magazines.
Yes, if you watch old videos online of them singing, one can see why teenage girls were swooning over them; especially Don, if you watch a video of him singing the solo parts of Cathy's Clown. I like that song, along with others by the brothers, but never bought any of their records, tapes or CDs. I do have two of their songs on my Sony MP3 player, but only because they were on CDs of songs by different groups. The two songs being Crying In The Rain and Bowling Green.
I don't know, their music just never appealed to me that much. Yet this book has got me watching the old videos with great interest. Along with their music, it covers to a point their personal lives and relationship with each other. There was indeed like a 10-year break up between them, as widely reported by the press over the years. Plus, both had three marriages, with Phil being the far better father and uncle. Don apparently felt it was best to stay away from his children if he did not get along with their mother. Both brothers also appeared to have some issues with their mother, but not their father.
Hence, Barry Mazor's Blood Harmony is a worthwhile read for both Everly Brothers fans and those who may not be real fans, but are interested in music made during their time period. At times the story did drag a bit after the brothers became estranged, yet not so much that I wanted to stop reading. My only real problem with this book was it led to some pretty bad earworms some nights. Yes, I was lying awake one night trying to remember all the lyrics to Wake Up Little Susie. Another night, I was trying to remember the words of Don's solo parts in Cathy's Clown.
Who knew that decades after I was listening to songs at night with the little white ear plug, I would be asking an electronic device next to my bed to play some of those songs? No waiting for when they were played on a radio station. Who could have imagined being able to do such a thing one day?
(Note: I received a free e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.)
I also never knew how much Don and Phil Everly influenced other singers with their guitar playing and blood harmony. "Blood harmony" is a term used to describe an effortless type of harmony produced by siblings or other close relatives. Never knew there was such a thing, either, before reading this book. In addition, I did not know the brothers were teen idols, gracing the covers of teen magazines at least ten years before I was reading such magazines.
Yes, if you watch old videos online of them singing, one can see why teenage girls were swooning over them; especially Don, if you watch a video of him singing the solo parts of Cathy's Clown. I like that song, along with others by the brothers, but never bought any of their records, tapes or CDs. I do have two of their songs on my Sony MP3 player, but only because they were on CDs of songs by different groups. The two songs being Crying In The Rain and Bowling Green.
I don't know, their music just never appealed to me that much. Yet this book has got me watching the old videos with great interest. Along with their music, it covers to a point their personal lives and relationship with each other. There was indeed like a 10-year break up between them, as widely reported by the press over the years. Plus, both had three marriages, with Phil being the far better father and uncle. Don apparently felt it was best to stay away from his children if he did not get along with their mother. Both brothers also appeared to have some issues with their mother, but not their father.
Hence, Barry Mazor's Blood Harmony is a worthwhile read for both Everly Brothers fans and those who may not be real fans, but are interested in music made during their time period. At times the story did drag a bit after the brothers became estranged, yet not so much that I wanted to stop reading. My only real problem with this book was it led to some pretty bad earworms some nights. Yes, I was lying awake one night trying to remember all the lyrics to Wake Up Little Susie. Another night, I was trying to remember the words of Don's solo parts in Cathy's Clown.
Who knew that decades after I was listening to songs at night with the little white ear plug, I would be asking an electronic device next to my bed to play some of those songs? No waiting for when they were played on a radio station. Who could have imagined being able to do such a thing one day?
(Note: I received a free e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.)
September 4, 2025
If you're familiar with the Paul McCartney song "Let 'Em In" there's a part where he name checks some people, two of whom are "Phil and Don." Well, this is Phil and Don, the Everly Brothers, pioneers in the field of rock and roll although they never really considered themselves as that. But, nonetheless, they were among the first inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and later the Country Music Hall of Fame as well as several others.
McCartney, along with many, many others who became stars through the years admired the Everlys (and yes, they were real brothers) for their outstanding harmony, songs and musical accomplishments. And with good reason, because they were outstanding and racked up countless hits during a short period of time in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Look at it this way, were it not for Phil and Don, there probably wouldn't have been the Beatles.
This is the story then, of the Everly Brothers.
They weren't angels. For a number of years (about 10) they didn't even speak to each other once the hits dried up. They were each married more times than you can imagine. But when they were together, they made some of the best music ever heard.
They were born into a musical family. Their father, Ike, was a singer and guitar player and hosted radio shows for a number of years and this gave Phil and Don their first exposure. We follow them from the glory years through to their last pop hit and the split that followed as each went their separate ways. Then, we see them getting back together and scoring hits on the Country charts! Not many people have accomplished that feat.
Sadly, both Phil and Don are no longer with us, but they left a musical legacy that many recording artists only dream about.
Heavily researched, both from books, magazines, newspapers and interviews, this is must reading for anyone interested in rock and roll and how it came to be and who Phil and Don influenced. Numerous artists, including names such as Bob Dylan, considered it the highlight of their careers to either have the Everlys sing back-up vocals on one of their recordings or use one of the songs they had written. That's how influential they were.
If you like rock and roll, Country or just music in general, you have to read this book!
McCartney, along with many, many others who became stars through the years admired the Everlys (and yes, they were real brothers) for their outstanding harmony, songs and musical accomplishments. And with good reason, because they were outstanding and racked up countless hits during a short period of time in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Look at it this way, were it not for Phil and Don, there probably wouldn't have been the Beatles.
This is the story then, of the Everly Brothers.
They weren't angels. For a number of years (about 10) they didn't even speak to each other once the hits dried up. They were each married more times than you can imagine. But when they were together, they made some of the best music ever heard.
They were born into a musical family. Their father, Ike, was a singer and guitar player and hosted radio shows for a number of years and this gave Phil and Don their first exposure. We follow them from the glory years through to their last pop hit and the split that followed as each went their separate ways. Then, we see them getting back together and scoring hits on the Country charts! Not many people have accomplished that feat.
Sadly, both Phil and Don are no longer with us, but they left a musical legacy that many recording artists only dream about.
Heavily researched, both from books, magazines, newspapers and interviews, this is must reading for anyone interested in rock and roll and how it came to be and who Phil and Don influenced. Numerous artists, including names such as Bob Dylan, considered it the highlight of their careers to either have the Everlys sing back-up vocals on one of their recordings or use one of the songs they had written. That's how influential they were.
If you like rock and roll, Country or just music in general, you have to read this book!
June 16, 2025
Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Story by Barry Mazor is a 2025 De Capo publication.
This biography dives into the lives and legacy of Don and Phil Everly- of the musical duo-The Everly Brothers. Although I wasn't very familiar with The Everly Brothers during my childhood, I encountered their music through various covers by other artists. It wasn't until my teenage years, when I developed an interest in rock and pop music history, that I realized many of the songs I adored were originally performed by The Everly Brothers, before I was born. From that moment, I became a big fan, awed by their extraordinary harmonization and their iconic pompadour hairdos. They were really cute back in the fifties and sixties!
One of the most surprising revelations in Mazor's book was the categorization of The Everly Brothers as country music artists. I had always perceived them as contemporary or pop musicians—neither rock nor country. Nevertheless, that was the genre they identified with, despite their popularity among teenage fans.
Barry Mazor expertly organizes the material, providing a balanced view of the brothers' musical achievements, business endeavors, and personal lives. Despite my admiration for the duo, I was unaware of many facets of their background, such as their musical beginnings, marriages, and the infamous decade of silence between them. Although many duos and groups disband, this breakup was particularly poignant because it involved family.
The book sheds light on the challenges and pitfalls of the music industry, illustrating how it affected the bond between the brothers. As biographies go, Blood Harmony offers a comprehensive view of the Everly Brothers as individuals, a duo, and musical legends. While the narrative may occasionally feel bland, it compensates by providing detailed information on various aspects of their lives, catering to readers’ different interests—be it reminiscing about the music, delving into personal dramas, or seeking a balanced perspective.
Barry Mazor successfully captures a significant era in music history, making this a good book for fans and newcomers alike.
3.5 stars
This biography dives into the lives and legacy of Don and Phil Everly- of the musical duo-The Everly Brothers. Although I wasn't very familiar with The Everly Brothers during my childhood, I encountered their music through various covers by other artists. It wasn't until my teenage years, when I developed an interest in rock and pop music history, that I realized many of the songs I adored were originally performed by The Everly Brothers, before I was born. From that moment, I became a big fan, awed by their extraordinary harmonization and their iconic pompadour hairdos. They were really cute back in the fifties and sixties!
One of the most surprising revelations in Mazor's book was the categorization of The Everly Brothers as country music artists. I had always perceived them as contemporary or pop musicians—neither rock nor country. Nevertheless, that was the genre they identified with, despite their popularity among teenage fans.
Barry Mazor expertly organizes the material, providing a balanced view of the brothers' musical achievements, business endeavors, and personal lives. Despite my admiration for the duo, I was unaware of many facets of their background, such as their musical beginnings, marriages, and the infamous decade of silence between them. Although many duos and groups disband, this breakup was particularly poignant because it involved family.
The book sheds light on the challenges and pitfalls of the music industry, illustrating how it affected the bond between the brothers. As biographies go, Blood Harmony offers a comprehensive view of the Everly Brothers as individuals, a duo, and musical legends. While the narrative may occasionally feel bland, it compensates by providing detailed information on various aspects of their lives, catering to readers’ different interests—be it reminiscing about the music, delving into personal dramas, or seeking a balanced perspective.
Barry Mazor successfully captures a significant era in music history, making this a good book for fans and newcomers alike.
3.5 stars
November 25, 2025
Stayed up late finishing this phenomenal new book on The Everly Brothers that has been long overdue. Barry Mazor wrote one of my all time favorite music books (Meeting Jimmie Rodgers), and I was thrilled when it was announced that he was writing what promised to be a definitive account of arguably the greatest harmony duo of them all.
Suffice to say it, if you’re into rock n roll, country, or great music of any stripe you should not miss this one. I have long tried to express what their music has meant to me: my first front-page article for No Depression magazine was a eulogy for Phil when he passed in 2014, which I wrote when I was eighteen. Still, there’s simply no words that can describe how it feels to catch a chill run over you as you hear Don and Phil singing that mysterious blood harmony.
Their story seems to capture something of the entire American music spectrum as it existed at that time. Mazor admirably examines all the cracks and devices of their musical output, and manages to weave in their thorny personal lives that they juggled while making their timeless catalog.
This book does what every great music book ought to do: drive you straight to the music, and give you insight into the people who made it. It had me staying up for hours watching endless clips of the brothers performing on YouTube, and reading the end of this book with that as my background. Tears were shed; a perfect experience. I also enjoyed getting to see so many Nashville friends mentioned at the end of the book. Now I need to try Brown’s Diner on my next visit, which was Don’s favorite spot to hold court.
“My advice to anyone who hasn’t spoken to his brother for a long time is—call him up.”
- Don Everly
Thank you Don and Phil for the priceless music, and thank you Barry for this insightful read.
Suffice to say it, if you’re into rock n roll, country, or great music of any stripe you should not miss this one. I have long tried to express what their music has meant to me: my first front-page article for No Depression magazine was a eulogy for Phil when he passed in 2014, which I wrote when I was eighteen. Still, there’s simply no words that can describe how it feels to catch a chill run over you as you hear Don and Phil singing that mysterious blood harmony.
Their story seems to capture something of the entire American music spectrum as it existed at that time. Mazor admirably examines all the cracks and devices of their musical output, and manages to weave in their thorny personal lives that they juggled while making their timeless catalog.
This book does what every great music book ought to do: drive you straight to the music, and give you insight into the people who made it. It had me staying up for hours watching endless clips of the brothers performing on YouTube, and reading the end of this book with that as my background. Tears were shed; a perfect experience. I also enjoyed getting to see so many Nashville friends mentioned at the end of the book. Now I need to try Brown’s Diner on my next visit, which was Don’s favorite spot to hold court.
“My advice to anyone who hasn’t spoken to his brother for a long time is—call him up.”
- Don Everly
Thank you Don and Phil for the priceless music, and thank you Barry for this insightful read.
September 27, 2025
Recently an interview with Barry Mazor was uploaded on YouTube. The man has an engaging personality in spades.
How is it that a guy that can articulate with such panache manage to write a whole book without one semi-colon of the same charm that he puts into speaking?
Admittedly, when he sticks to details about The Everlys' actual records; what was the inspirations behind the songs, who were the musicians playing on them, how it was produced, how it was received by the public and critics, then the text becomes informative... if a bit dry in the telling.
(How does one sentence manage to become a whole paragraph? And why was the proof-reader asleep when going over this mess, striking out totally unnecessary words?)
Plus, far too many pages of this thing were a waste of carbon; informing readers of the private ups and downs (mostly downs) in the day-to-day-to day-to-day lives of Don and Phil. Does anyone really care if the two gents had a hard time keeping things together with their many wives, girlfriends, one-night stands, hangers-on... and of course, the drugs, nervous breakdowns, etc, etc, etc.
All delivered in the same dry, humorless fashion as when Mazor was describing their actual contributions to music history.
I couldn't even finish half-way the thing.
One final complaint: Mazor, as well as many of his author-clan peers, spell group names like The Beatles using a small "t" for "The".
This is such a major INFRACTION to decent sensibilities. I don't give a fig that this insult is "technically" accepted. It is "The Rolling Stones", not "the Rolling Stones". It is "The Everly Brothers", not "the Everly Brothers"
How is it that a guy that can articulate with such panache manage to write a whole book without one semi-colon of the same charm that he puts into speaking?
Admittedly, when he sticks to details about The Everlys' actual records; what was the inspirations behind the songs, who were the musicians playing on them, how it was produced, how it was received by the public and critics, then the text becomes informative... if a bit dry in the telling.
(How does one sentence manage to become a whole paragraph? And why was the proof-reader asleep when going over this mess, striking out totally unnecessary words?)
Plus, far too many pages of this thing were a waste of carbon; informing readers of the private ups and downs (mostly downs) in the day-to-day-to day-to-day lives of Don and Phil. Does anyone really care if the two gents had a hard time keeping things together with their many wives, girlfriends, one-night stands, hangers-on... and of course, the drugs, nervous breakdowns, etc, etc, etc.
All delivered in the same dry, humorless fashion as when Mazor was describing their actual contributions to music history.
I couldn't even finish half-way the thing.
One final complaint: Mazor, as well as many of his author-clan peers, spell group names like The Beatles using a small "t" for "The".
This is such a major INFRACTION to decent sensibilities. I don't give a fig that this insult is "technically" accepted. It is "The Rolling Stones", not "the Rolling Stones". It is "The Everly Brothers", not "the Everly Brothers"
June 7, 2025
Well researched, captivating biography of these influential pioneers of Rock'n'roll. This is an engaging, chronological history that deftly weaves the music and personal lives of Don and Phil Everly from their early years on their parents' radio show to their acrimonious breakup and heartwarming reunion. I grew up listening to the Cadence and early Warner Brothers records from the 50s and 60s, and was thrilled with the Dave Edmunds produced comeback albums in the 80's but had no clue what happened in between. This is a great read for anyone interested in early rock'n'roll, vocal harmonies that inspired the British Invasion groups, or just casual fans of the Everly Brothers. I had a deep cut playlist on the entire time I was reading and found some undiscovered gems in those poorly charting albums from the late 60s and early 70s. Highly recommended
Thanks to NetGalley and Da Capo for an advanced reader copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Da Capo for an advanced reader copy.
October 23, 2025
A really good overview of the Everly Brother’s story. Major does a really good job of providing the background and the foundation of one of the most influential musical acts in country/rock, including the who-knew-who and how from the early 50’s until Phil and Don’s death. I’m a huge Everly fan and appreciated the personal and professional building blocks, including the almost decade long silence between them. What stood out was the minimal involvement of any of the Everly family. While there is a quote of two, there is mostly silence from all of the kids (which makes sense since Don didn’t have much involvement with his children. There are a lot of facts about the songs and the arrangements and it all seemed a bit dry so I strongly urge a reader to go to YouTube the first time a song is mentioned, to hear the gorgeous harmony, deft guitar playing, and powerful arrangement that words simply can not describe sufficently.
February 6, 2025
Thank you, Grand Central Publishing | Da Capo for the copy of Blood Harmony, The Everly Brothers Story by Barry Mazor. I remember listening to The Everly Brothers when I was growing up so the hit song titles were familiar to me. I also remember their stunning voices! I loved this book and had no idea about their lives behind the scenes and I appreciated how their hard times weren’t downplayed. I especially liked hearing about the other up-and-coming musicians that played a part in their story. I’m not a musician so there were some musical terms I didn’t really understand, but that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. I had no idea that ‘blood harmony’ was a common term! I think this book is for people who loved The Everly Brothers and those who are new to them. 4 stars
September 28, 2025
Something Unique Only Shared Blood Delivers
I was born in 1950. Growing up, the Everly Brothers were gods for me and my friends and prompted by them and others, I had desire to make music too. As an avocation, I’ve done so ever since. I’ve even been privileged to sing harmonies with a fantastic singing partner.
But as an only child I could never experience “blood harmony,” a special sound only families can share.
This comprehensive book examines how special the harmony of genetics can be and nobody did it better than the Everlys.
Having seen them live at Concord Pavillon in 1984, I can say that blend of talent was special and something I’d never heard live since.
The book is a must if you ever heard them live or on records and adds to and explains their the legend.
I was born in 1950. Growing up, the Everly Brothers were gods for me and my friends and prompted by them and others, I had desire to make music too. As an avocation, I’ve done so ever since. I’ve even been privileged to sing harmonies with a fantastic singing partner.
But as an only child I could never experience “blood harmony,” a special sound only families can share.
This comprehensive book examines how special the harmony of genetics can be and nobody did it better than the Everlys.
Having seen them live at Concord Pavillon in 1984, I can say that blend of talent was special and something I’d never heard live since.
The book is a must if you ever heard them live or on records and adds to and explains their the legend.
August 11, 2025
If you love the Everly Brothers, it’s a worthy read. If you were hoping that this would be the book that would convert the nonbelievers into zealots for their greatness, you will be disappointed. It preaches to the choir and never attempts to make their case beyond their fandom.
It’s kind of a shame. They really were great, and great music should never be forgotten. If you are a fan, you will keep putting the book down to play their music. Their story is typical musicians; talented and messy personal lives.
But the music was so great. Let the book bring you back to the music, and you won’t regret it.
It’s kind of a shame. They really were great, and great music should never be forgotten. If you are a fan, you will keep putting the book down to play their music. Their story is typical musicians; talented and messy personal lives.
But the music was so great. Let the book bring you back to the music, and you won’t regret it.
August 25, 2025
(3 1/2). I am very sure that most of today's modern music audience has no idea who the Everly brothers were or their incredible influence on pop/country/vocal music as it exists today. This is the first biography I have ever encountered about them and it is a keeper. A few slow spots, but Barry Mazor does a nice job portraying the brothers family and their lives apart and together, musically and otherwise, creating an informative, interesting read. Being an old music guy, I was aware of them from the start, and knew of their incredible influences, but I learned a great deal from this book. It was good fun and an important brick in my music history wall. Good stuff.
July 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. I didn’t know much beyond the basics about the Everly Brothers and I learned so much! I knew their relationship was rough, this gives some insight into that. I was happy that the author didn’t just make the story about that, these guy have had a a hell of a life!
A lot of research went into this and it’s truly appreciated. Great writing. I highly recommend this one.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
A lot of research went into this and it’s truly appreciated. Great writing. I highly recommend this one.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
August 5, 2025
It's an interesting story, you forget just how influential and omnipresnt the Everly's were, touching wide swaths of the music industry for half a century ... The writing is "meh" and can be confusing and as is the case with many modern, serious musician biographies, what absolutely paralyzes you is the endless rehashing of every single song pedigree and live show and studio session, as if the author is being paid by the number of musicians and hangers-on he names ...
October 30, 2025
I grew up loving the Everly Brothers music and all the other major artists who they influenced - reading their bios really filled in a lot of blanks in my understanding of how they got started and succeeded - that’s the good news; for me reading about the lives of musicians who made it big is always the same descent into drugs, sex and messed up lives; makes me wonder why so many aspire to pursue that career path but that’s just me - still an interesting read
August 14, 2025
Before reading this I knew nothing about The Everly Brothers other than they made some fantastic and iconic music that influenced a lot of more popular groups that came up after them.
You can tell that the author spent a lot of time and care researching their lives, the writing was enjoyable and I learned a lot about these two and their lives including how complicated their relationship was.
You can tell that the author spent a lot of time and care researching their lives, the writing was enjoyable and I learned a lot about these two and their lives including how complicated their relationship was.
August 27, 2025
A very thorough book that reads more like a definitive Everly Brothers encyclopedia than a biography. But it's very informative. I think it's pretty clear that there was some difficult inner-turmoil in the family that will never be explained or understood by us - between Don and Phil of course as well as their mother.
September 10, 2025
Have always loved the Everly Brothers but I struggled to read this book. There were lots of facts but it was more like reading a text book than reading an interesting book about people you like and want to learn more about. This was not the author for me I do want more about the Brothers but I want to enjoy the read and I just didn't with this book.
November 28, 2025
got a little bogged down in the details during the middle section. I never really got the sense that the author had gotten to the core of the friction between Don and Phil. Perhaps too much time had passed since they were gone, or the friends and family who survived the brothers were unwilling to divulge?
December 15, 2025
Such important read understanding the achievements and creating genre of dual harmony of these blood brothers . Major influence what was become the first wave from britian Beatles and Stones breaking culture barrier in pop culture and country music genres .
August 26, 2025
Very dry. it's very similar to reading a research paper.
November 2, 2025
A good book but they were popular before my time so I wasn't into their story too much. I thought they had more hits than they actually did.
November 14, 2025
Great: so interesting to learn the influence they had on so many musicians.
July 25, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing’s Da Capo imprint for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It seems I’ve known for a long time about Blood Harmony without hearing the term used until this book. It simply means that harmonizing with someone in your family creates a beautiful sound. From the Everly and Smothers Brothers, to the Mandrell Sisters and the Judds, we’ve all heard it and enjoyed the pureness of the sound. The Everly Brothers were some of the first popular music singers to use that beautifully blended sound to top the pop and country charts.
The Everly Brothers were so prolific, coming onto the scene not long after Elvis Presley and into the early days of Beatlemania, it’s astounding. The duo had 27 Top 40 hits over the course of ten years, but despite the success in the pop world, they considered themselves country artists. Hits like Cathy’s Clown, Wake Up Little Susie, When Will I Be Loved, and their first and best known song, Bye Bye Love,
The brothers influenced tons of artists who tried their best to recreate that wonderful harmony. And despite not hitting the pop charts after 1967, the duo continued writing music and performing together until 1973. The plan was to take 2 years off from recording, touring, or even being around each other. That stretched to TEN YEARS! When they did reunite in 1983, it was if those ten years had simply melted away. I had heard the Smothers Brothers talking about the Everly Brothers break and said they went through a similar, but not as long of a break from performing. The Smothers went to couple’s therapy, which seems to have helped them. You’ll just have to read the book to find out how the Everlys came together again after a decade.
Overall, this was a great, comprehensive biography about a very influential duo.
It seems I’ve known for a long time about Blood Harmony without hearing the term used until this book. It simply means that harmonizing with someone in your family creates a beautiful sound. From the Everly and Smothers Brothers, to the Mandrell Sisters and the Judds, we’ve all heard it and enjoyed the pureness of the sound. The Everly Brothers were some of the first popular music singers to use that beautifully blended sound to top the pop and country charts.
The Everly Brothers were so prolific, coming onto the scene not long after Elvis Presley and into the early days of Beatlemania, it’s astounding. The duo had 27 Top 40 hits over the course of ten years, but despite the success in the pop world, they considered themselves country artists. Hits like Cathy’s Clown, Wake Up Little Susie, When Will I Be Loved, and their first and best known song, Bye Bye Love,
The brothers influenced tons of artists who tried their best to recreate that wonderful harmony. And despite not hitting the pop charts after 1967, the duo continued writing music and performing together until 1973. The plan was to take 2 years off from recording, touring, or even being around each other. That stretched to TEN YEARS! When they did reunite in 1983, it was if those ten years had simply melted away. I had heard the Smothers Brothers talking about the Everly Brothers break and said they went through a similar, but not as long of a break from performing. The Smothers went to couple’s therapy, which seems to have helped them. You’ll just have to read the book to find out how the Everlys came together again after a decade.
Overall, this was a great, comprehensive biography about a very influential duo.
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