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The Book of Luke: My Fight for Truth, Justice, and Liberty City
Born in Miami's notorious Liberty City, Luther Campbell witnessed poverty, despair, and crime firsthand. His uncle Ricky did not want him trapped by the "invisible chains" of systemic racism, so Ricky schooled him on the necessity of a black man running his own life, controlling his livelihood, and owning property.
Embracing these lessons, Campbell discovered his gift for entrepreneurship: He created one of the first hip-hop record companies, Luke Records, which started out of a shed in his mom's backyard and grew into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. As a rapper on his own label, Luke became known as the "King of Dirty Rap" and helped pioneer the worldwide phenomenon of Miami Bass. He went on to become the front man and manager for the rap group 2 Live Crew, and was key to the success of the group's controversial platinum recording As Nasty As They Wanna Be.
His hugely popular and provocative music infuriated the Man, and Luke was marked as public enemy number one when hip-hop crossed the color line into white America. Campbell would spend more than a million dollars of his own money fighting cops and prosecutors, and he went all the way to the Supreme Court to protect his—and every other artist's—right to free speech, setting landmark legal precedents that continue to shape the entertainment industry to this day.
In Campbell's clear and honest voice, he shares unforgettable stories of his rise to celebrity status, including illicit tales from his raunchy concerts. He also breaks down how he lost his fortune, but in the process gained a better perspective on life. His father taught him to be responsible for his actions and to be proud of himself. Campbell expressed this by being cocky and holding his head up high, but, as he acknowledges, "America has never been an easy place for a black man who doesn't know how to apologize."
Touching on some of the most pressing issues of our time, The Book of Luke is a raw and powerful memoir of how one man invented southern hip-hop, saved the First Amendment, and became a role model for the disenfranchised people of the city he calls home.
Embracing these lessons, Campbell discovered his gift for entrepreneurship: He created one of the first hip-hop record companies, Luke Records, which started out of a shed in his mom's backyard and grew into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. As a rapper on his own label, Luke became known as the "King of Dirty Rap" and helped pioneer the worldwide phenomenon of Miami Bass. He went on to become the front man and manager for the rap group 2 Live Crew, and was key to the success of the group's controversial platinum recording As Nasty As They Wanna Be.
His hugely popular and provocative music infuriated the Man, and Luke was marked as public enemy number one when hip-hop crossed the color line into white America. Campbell would spend more than a million dollars of his own money fighting cops and prosecutors, and he went all the way to the Supreme Court to protect his—and every other artist's—right to free speech, setting landmark legal precedents that continue to shape the entertainment industry to this day.
In Campbell's clear and honest voice, he shares unforgettable stories of his rise to celebrity status, including illicit tales from his raunchy concerts. He also breaks down how he lost his fortune, but in the process gained a better perspective on life. His father taught him to be responsible for his actions and to be proud of himself. Campbell expressed this by being cocky and holding his head up high, but, as he acknowledges, "America has never been an easy place for a black man who doesn't know how to apologize."
Touching on some of the most pressing issues of our time, The Book of Luke is a raw and powerful memoir of how one man invented southern hip-hop, saved the First Amendment, and became a role model for the disenfranchised people of the city he calls home.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published August 4, 2015
24 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 30, 2015
Luther Campbell's memoir is pretty good! I went to a book signing he did for this over the summer before I had actually read the book and I was impressed with the topics he chose to speak on that night. He spoke very little about 2 Live Crew's exploits with groupies (which is what I think most people were expecting) and instead shared very nuanced and passionate opinions about the planning and history of Miami especially as it pertained to the black community. He also had some funny asides about growing up the youngest of five brothers in a household run by his Caribbean immigrant parents.
The book is equally engaging and highlights many of Luke's hip hop "firsts." After reading this, it's hard to justify why he hasn't be heralded more in the hip hop industry from just the business angle alone. Of course the book does have a few cringe-worthy groupie tales and details some of the more extreme sex acts performed on stage during his shows. As for the lyrical content of his raunchy hit singles (which ultimately led to some historic court battles), Luke is not convincing in explaining how he was not being misogynistic. He claims was always supposed to just be over-the-top funny not malicious. That could be true, but if women (especially black women) are always the butt of the joke, you might want to reset your funny button and investigate why women are such a prime target.
Basically, Luke is a multi-faceted person. He's a married father now who has been coaching kids' football for over two decades, has a regular column in a Miami newspaper and is an ardent financial and social contributor to the the community he calls home. He's also the guy who gave the "Head, head and more head" line. There you have it folks.
The book is equally engaging and highlights many of Luke's hip hop "firsts." After reading this, it's hard to justify why he hasn't be heralded more in the hip hop industry from just the business angle alone. Of course the book does have a few cringe-worthy groupie tales and details some of the more extreme sex acts performed on stage during his shows. As for the lyrical content of his raunchy hit singles (which ultimately led to some historic court battles), Luke is not convincing in explaining how he was not being misogynistic. He claims was always supposed to just be over-the-top funny not malicious. That could be true, but if women (especially black women) are always the butt of the joke, you might want to reset your funny button and investigate why women are such a prime target.
Basically, Luke is a multi-faceted person. He's a married father now who has been coaching kids' football for over two decades, has a regular column in a Miami newspaper and is an ardent financial and social contributor to the the community he calls home. He's also the guy who gave the "Head, head and more head" line. There you have it folks.
February 7, 2016
Those from my generation that know of Luther Campbell (whether "Luke Skywalker" or the post cease-and-desist-from-Lucasfilm-inspired "Luke" was the name he used by the time you got wind of him) may know him primarily as the guy that backed and co-produced the raunchy songs the 2 Live Crew was known for throughout the 80's and into the 90's (and even in the 21st century as new versions of the group he wasn't a founder of - but owned the name to ... - as "new generation" incarnations featuring artists that would go on to bigger success afterwards).
This book succedes in painting a picture of not just a brief history of a pre hot spot destination Miami but of an ahead of his time businessman who created the "parental advisory" stickers we see on "matiure themed"albums, saw the merits of making two versions of songs and albums (the original version and self censored ones) and found a way to press, distribute and sell independent records by the millions without major label backing or mainstream radio play in New York or L.A (which was a big deal for any hip hop themed label looking for big sales back then). Campbell and his label was the port that would directly and/or indirectly launch the South music movement led by the likes of Rap-A-Lot, No Limit, Cash Money, Etc.
While the book does (in my opinion) suffer from a large dose of "Well it;s my story"-isms (where even when you were wrong you were right and those went against your vision or said something not so flattering about you were fools and other unflattering things) in the long run those are just small ticks to deal with because of the insight it offers about a man who doesn't seem to see losing as an option or a set back as final.
This book succedes in painting a picture of not just a brief history of a pre hot spot destination Miami but of an ahead of his time businessman who created the "parental advisory" stickers we see on "matiure themed"albums, saw the merits of making two versions of songs and albums (the original version and self censored ones) and found a way to press, distribute and sell independent records by the millions without major label backing or mainstream radio play in New York or L.A (which was a big deal for any hip hop themed label looking for big sales back then). Campbell and his label was the port that would directly and/or indirectly launch the South music movement led by the likes of Rap-A-Lot, No Limit, Cash Money, Etc.
While the book does (in my opinion) suffer from a large dose of "Well it;s my story"-isms (where even when you were wrong you were right and those went against your vision or said something not so flattering about you were fools and other unflattering things) in the long run those are just small ticks to deal with because of the insight it offers about a man who doesn't seem to see losing as an option or a set back as final.
October 22, 2016
Most of these rap memoirs read like the product of maybe three hours of interviews with a ghostwriter, and the thing is, I'm fine with that. I'm willing to accept how poorly they're written in exchange for any inside info I might be able to glean. Ja Rule's book, Unruly, for example, was excellent in that regard.
The Book of Luke is a cut above the average rap memoir. It reads like someone was trying to write an actual book. It's got a smart structure, no grammatical errors that I noticed (not that I'm an expert), and a powerful, fascinating story.
It seems like part of the purpose of writing this book was for Luke to stake his claim not just as a pioneering southern rapper, which he is, but one of the few truly independent businessmen, to the point where he was pressing up copies of his own albums. Not even E-40 was personally manufacturing his own shit.
Alas, Luke's operation blew up in his face big time, to the point where the guy who was his lawyer now owns his former label and all of its intellectual property. Luke comes off as overly impressed with his own business acumen for someone who took such an L, but I suppose that's to be expected from a hip-hop book.
The Book of Luke is a cut above the average rap memoir. It reads like someone was trying to write an actual book. It's got a smart structure, no grammatical errors that I noticed (not that I'm an expert), and a powerful, fascinating story.
It seems like part of the purpose of writing this book was for Luke to stake his claim not just as a pioneering southern rapper, which he is, but one of the few truly independent businessmen, to the point where he was pressing up copies of his own albums. Not even E-40 was personally manufacturing his own shit.
Alas, Luke's operation blew up in his face big time, to the point where the guy who was his lawyer now owns his former label and all of its intellectual property. Luke comes off as overly impressed with his own business acumen for someone who took such an L, but I suppose that's to be expected from a hip-hop book.
March 31, 2016
Wow, wow, wow! I read this autobiography for work. It was a nice breath of fresh air from the bulk of fiction I've been reading. And Lord knows I love a good music autobiography.
I grew up listening to all kinds of hip-hop and I remember when my brother introduced me to 2 Live Crew. It was so dirty and silly to me. But I could tell they were just having fun and they meant no harm. It's pretty enlightening to see what Luther and the members of the group had to put up with. I knew about the scrutiny they received from the right wing conservatives and what they had to deal with with the Supreme Court, but I had no idea the bulk of hip-hop culture rejected them also. Luther offers great background about his plight. He also points out how he pioneered many elements in hip-hop we take for granted today. His commitment to Liberty City and the football program is also very inspiring.
All that aside, he doesn't hold back on the "rock n' roll lifestyle" he lived... probably the juiciest part of any music biography. Man, musicians really do live a CRAZY life! I actually found myself blushing at many of his stories; often times belly laughing. This book is definitely worth the read for those stories alone. But most definitely worth the read for a story of redemption and giving back.
I grew up listening to all kinds of hip-hop and I remember when my brother introduced me to 2 Live Crew. It was so dirty and silly to me. But I could tell they were just having fun and they meant no harm. It's pretty enlightening to see what Luther and the members of the group had to put up with. I knew about the scrutiny they received from the right wing conservatives and what they had to deal with with the Supreme Court, but I had no idea the bulk of hip-hop culture rejected them also. Luther offers great background about his plight. He also points out how he pioneered many elements in hip-hop we take for granted today. His commitment to Liberty City and the football program is also very inspiring.
All that aside, he doesn't hold back on the "rock n' roll lifestyle" he lived... probably the juiciest part of any music biography. Man, musicians really do live a CRAZY life! I actually found myself blushing at many of his stories; often times belly laughing. This book is definitely worth the read for those stories alone. But most definitely worth the read for a story of redemption and giving back.
April 19, 2019
More than I expected
First of all, this book is awesome. If you want wild party stories, they are few and far between. This book is an education written by a grownup Luther Campbell. His contextualization of EVERYTHING through the lens of history adds a layer of understanding and thought that makes this book better than it would have been if it only focused on booty shaking groupies and x-rated videos. I enjoyed the learning experience. A little language but nothing overwhelming. I recommend this book to anyone, but especially if you grew up a a fan of 2 Live Crew and Luke Skyywalker.
First of all, this book is awesome. If you want wild party stories, they are few and far between. This book is an education written by a grownup Luther Campbell. His contextualization of EVERYTHING through the lens of history adds a layer of understanding and thought that makes this book better than it would have been if it only focused on booty shaking groupies and x-rated videos. I enjoyed the learning experience. A little language but nothing overwhelming. I recommend this book to anyone, but especially if you grew up a a fan of 2 Live Crew and Luke Skyywalker.
June 19, 2016
This book was well written; like most things that Uncle Luke did but has not always had credit for. He fought for what other people received and took for granted. He did it all the way to the Supreme Court ans still got little respect and more litigation. This is not a rant at all, and he really speaks for equality. I recommend this book for anyone who looks down upon black folks or any of the underprivileged. Every U.S. Citizen deserves the same rights!
Keep your highlighter handy for this one.
Keep your highlighter handy for this one.
November 23, 2015
I liked this one a lot. He gives not only his own history but a lot of the history of Miami. Particularly black history in Miami. You also get a good recount of the various court cases. Overall this was a well written and engrossing biography. I recommend it if you are the least bit curious in knowing about Luther Campbell the man or the history of Miami.
October 10, 2015
I enjoyed this book very much. it was very interesting to learn the history of Miami, his culture which we both share, they way he came up and is still very revelant and popular in hip-hop in the millennium. he is a legend in his own right and I love him to death. Ive always had a big crush on him. thank you luke. mad respect and love all day from the 585 down to the 305.
October 8, 2019
Reading this book made me realize that I didn’t really know anything about Luther Campbell. The history that he shared in this book was amazing. I never expected to enjoy his book as much as I did. I would highly recommend this book!
December 6, 2017
Thought I was going to read about raunchy stories and shenanigans. Boy, was I surprised to learn about a fascinating trailblazer in the music industry and his community. Highly recommend this book to anyone who judges a book by it's cover or wants to be involved and make a difference!
March 31, 2020
Things you never knew, and how it truly occurred was eye 👁 opening! I grew up during this era and enjoyed there catch phrases. 2 Live performed at my high school (John Ehret) and things were never the same. LoL 😁
May 21, 2022
Very Inspirational
If you watch TV or if you are on social media to get an understanding of Uncle Luke, you will be selling yourself short. This book let's you know who he is an entrepreneur, entertainer, father, and how much he cares about his community.
If you watch TV or if you are on social media to get an understanding of Uncle Luke, you will be selling yourself short. This book let's you know who he is an entrepreneur, entertainer, father, and how much he cares about his community.
May 3, 2020
Interesting I've always respected him he's honorable & has done a lot of us in the music game
July 17, 2022
I enjoyed reading about the life of uncle Luke! He covers his career and legal troubles we it’s 2 live crew, but also his post 2 live career as a high school football coach. Thumbs up!
February 24, 2024
Excellent Read!
What an amazing ride!
I couldn't put this book down. What a full circle inspiring story.
Kudos to Miami's own.
What an amazing ride!
I couldn't put this book down. What a full circle inspiring story.
Kudos to Miami's own.
January 25, 2025
Bruh... This muhfucka is the truth. Read this shit please for any artist that wants an intro to music law. Funny as fuck!
April 12, 2025
Me so horny for municipal politics.
December 27, 2015
Better than I thought. The first three parts of the book were more interesting than the last part. Campbell's story provided more than just a memoir of the musician. Included cultural history of Miami.
December 9, 2015
Luke believes he is truly the king of hip hop. I beg to differ! Decent read, not great!
September 22, 2015
In addition to giving insight into a man who has been misunderstood and misrepresented by mainstream media, this book gives a fascinating history of hip hop and the city of Miami.
November 11, 2015
This book gave me a new prospective on the struggle that the black endure in our country. Luke came about full circle, glad he had good influence in boyhood.
April 7, 2022
Good. Insight on the rap-game and east-coast/ west-coast rap war.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews