What do you think?
Rate this book
How to Be a Man and Other Illusions
Duff McKagan is one of the most respected survivors in hard rock. In How to Be a Man, he shares the wisdom he gained on the path to superstardom-from his time with Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver to getting sober after a life of hard living to achieving his personal American Dream of marrying a supermodel, raising a family, and experiencing what it's like to be winked at by Prince.An interviewer's favorite, McKagan's wisdom has been sought out on everything from financial planning and relationships to surviving the summer festival circuit and escaping a military coup. Expanding on his popular weekly columns in Seattle Weekly, playboy.com, and espn.com, McKagan equips listeners with the knowledge they need to rock fatherhood, manage their money, and remain a good dude in spite of it all.
Audio CD
First published May 12, 2015
81 people are currently reading
960 people want to read
About the author
Duff McKagan
33 books386 followersIn 1984, at the age of twenty, Duff left his native Seattle—partly to pursue music but mainly to get away from a host of heroin overdoses then decimating his closest group of friends in the local punk scene. In L.A. only a few weeks and still living in his car, he answered a want ad for a bass player placed by someone who identified himself only as “Slash.” Soon after, the most dangerous band in the world was born. Guns N’ Roses went on to sell more than 100 million albums worldwide.
In It's So Easy, Duff recounts GN’R’s unlikely trajectory to a string of multiplatinum albums, sold-out stadium concerts, and global acclaim. But that kind of glory can take its toll, and it did—ultimately—on Duff, as well as on the band itself. As GN’R began to splinter, Duff felt that he himself was done, too. But his near death as a direct result of alcoholism proved to be his watershed, the turning point that led to his unique path to sobriety and the unexpected choices he has made for himself since. In a voice that is as honest as it is indelibly his own, Duff—one of rock’s smartest and most articulate personalities—takes readers on his harrowing journey through the dark heart of one of the most notorious bands in rock-and-roll history and out the other side.
In It's So Easy, Duff recounts GN’R’s unlikely trajectory to a string of multiplatinum albums, sold-out stadium concerts, and global acclaim. But that kind of glory can take its toll, and it did—ultimately—on Duff, as well as on the band itself. As GN’R began to splinter, Duff felt that he himself was done, too. But his near death as a direct result of alcoholism proved to be his watershed, the turning point that led to his unique path to sobriety and the unexpected choices he has made for himself since. In a voice that is as honest as it is indelibly his own, Duff—one of rock’s smartest and most articulate personalities—takes readers on his harrowing journey through the dark heart of one of the most notorious bands in rock-and-roll history and out the other side.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 18, 2015
My favorite part was his statistical analysis of Bon Jovi's claim that he had "seen a million faces" and had "rocked them all." Duff validated that the amount of faces seen by Bon Jovi could potentially be one million, but there was a low probability that 100% of those faces were rocked. For example, if a parent begrudgingly took their child to a concert, they were probably not rocked. Duff estimates that 80-90% were rocked.
October 6, 2016
My all time favorite groups are Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, NIN and Guns N' Roses (not necessarily in that order because there is no order...I love all four pretty equally) and I read anything and everything that I can about these groups and the musicians who have taken me higher throughout the years. Duff McKagan is the original bassist of Guns N' Roses.
What an interesting guy and book! In his opinion of how to be a man, I have to say that I agree with him 99% of the time (which totally shocked me because I am opinionated and do not suffer fools gladly.) Every male should read this book and seriously consider behaving as the author suggests.
He had his crazy days of youth and debauchery, wised up, went back to school, got married to a woman he still adores and had two daughters who probably have one of the best Dads in the world. He actually reads books, thinks about things seriously and has obtained sobriety and maturity though hard work and determination.
I am impressed. It's so awesome to know that one of my 'heroes' is, in actually, a hero. It's an interesting read and I highly recommend reading it and following his advice. Thanks Duff!!!
What an interesting guy and book! In his opinion of how to be a man, I have to say that I agree with him 99% of the time (which totally shocked me because I am opinionated and do not suffer fools gladly.) Every male should read this book and seriously consider behaving as the author suggests.
He had his crazy days of youth and debauchery, wised up, went back to school, got married to a woman he still adores and had two daughters who probably have one of the best Dads in the world. He actually reads books, thinks about things seriously and has obtained sobriety and maturity though hard work and determination.
I am impressed. It's so awesome to know that one of my 'heroes' is, in actually, a hero. It's an interesting read and I highly recommend reading it and following his advice. Thanks Duff!!!
July 21, 2017
This is just as fun as Duff's last book.
The stories of him and his daughters are hilarious. He could fill a book with just that: A Rockstar Daddy who gets ignored by his Teenage Princesses because he isn't cool enough. I know the feeling.
A great book - basically him touring the world TODAY, and trying to fix his back deck at the same time. Lots of fun advice and wisdom for aspiring Dad's and Husbands to overcome their pathetic insecurities and vanities. And how to have a roadworthy sense of humor.
Tons of awesome Rockstar stories.
The stories of him and his daughters are hilarious. He could fill a book with just that: A Rockstar Daddy who gets ignored by his Teenage Princesses because he isn't cool enough. I know the feeling.
A great book - basically him touring the world TODAY, and trying to fix his back deck at the same time. Lots of fun advice and wisdom for aspiring Dad's and Husbands to overcome their pathetic insecurities and vanities. And how to have a roadworthy sense of humor.
Tons of awesome Rockstar stories.
December 27, 2022
Really well-written. I feel like I know how to be a better man now. Loved the parts about music, family, exercise, and travel. The stuff about football was a bit tiresome but I endured it.
May 1, 2023
I fell in love with Duff when I read his first book, and now I fell in love with him all over again. The man is super cool but also very down to earth, honest and authentic.
That said, I enjoyed It's so easy a lot more. It's a tighter book with a strong theme, whereas this one is a mixed bag. Most of it reads like a travel blog. There are lists of his favourite albums and books. There are parts that feel a bit outdated, such as the chapter about his loyalty towards his Blackberry. And then there are some true gems, like the story of his trip to the Superbowl, or his reflections on turning 50.
I'm not sure "How to be a man" was a good idea to use as an overarching theme. Some chapters fit this theme, others not so much, and some sections felt a bit didactic or almost preachy to me. They aren't too bad because Duff is so honest and real and isn't afraid to admit his mistakes, but I think I'd be happier if the book was titled "Turning 50" or something else that doesn't sound like a bunch of life lessons to be followed.
That said, I enjoyed It's so easy a lot more. It's a tighter book with a strong theme, whereas this one is a mixed bag. Most of it reads like a travel blog. There are lists of his favourite albums and books. There are parts that feel a bit outdated, such as the chapter about his loyalty towards his Blackberry. And then there are some true gems, like the story of his trip to the Superbowl, or his reflections on turning 50.
I'm not sure "How to be a man" was a good idea to use as an overarching theme. Some chapters fit this theme, others not so much, and some sections felt a bit didactic or almost preachy to me. They aren't too bad because Duff is so honest and real and isn't afraid to admit his mistakes, but I think I'd be happier if the book was titled "Turning 50" or something else that doesn't sound like a bunch of life lessons to be followed.
May 11, 2015
This was a fantastic collection of life lessons with a unique perspective.
Lots of serious advice on things like how to treat your woman (or man) to silly things like poo etiquette when sharing a hotel room to chapters full of albums to own and books to read. Coupled with a great sense of humor and rock and roll royalty, Duff's book shines a light on info that should be considered common sense, but definitely bears repeating.
All in all, fun and quick read.
**Huge thanks to DeCapo Press and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Lots of serious advice on things like how to treat your woman (or man) to silly things like poo etiquette when sharing a hotel room to chapters full of albums to own and books to read. Coupled with a great sense of humor and rock and roll royalty, Duff's book shines a light on info that should be considered common sense, but definitely bears repeating.
All in all, fun and quick read.
**Huge thanks to DeCapo Press and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
December 19, 2022
I’m biased. GnR was my absolute favorite band in my school days. Duff was cooler than cool. Glad he found some stability in life. Here he shares life tips and stories.
September 11, 2020
I usually enjoy watching Duff McKagan being interviewed these days. He's a pretty introspective and level-headed guy whose public persona as the bassist from Guns N Roses is a far cry from the whole picture, or at least from what you'd expect.
Since I liked his memoir "It's So Easy," and I'd enjoyed his columns on several publications, I figured this one would be just as entertaining. Well, it wasn't boring, but I'm afraid it didn't really work for me.
It felt like he was trying too hard to be funny or clever at times, like the chapter where he talks about the day he spent in Madrid with one of his band-mates and they were mistaken for a gay couple, or the chapter where he jokes he's part of the real cool people because he uses a blackberry and doesn't do social media. I mean, I get he's not being serious, but it kind of comes off as douche-y, especially considering some other comments he includes from the classic privileged American p.o.v. like when he says that he decided to take advantage of Spain's crappy economy and go shopping for cheap, or when he claims that having an armed guard is probably normal in Mexico City. Dude. Just. No.
Still, I think most of what rubbed me the wrong way here is due to unfortunate choice of words and not because he really is an asshole, and it will of course depend on your own world view. Maybe you agree with him. Who knows?
Since I liked his memoir "It's So Easy," and I'd enjoyed his columns on several publications, I figured this one would be just as entertaining. Well, it wasn't boring, but I'm afraid it didn't really work for me.
It felt like he was trying too hard to be funny or clever at times, like the chapter where he talks about the day he spent in Madrid with one of his band-mates and they were mistaken for a gay couple, or the chapter where he jokes he's part of the real cool people because he uses a blackberry and doesn't do social media. I mean, I get he's not being serious, but it kind of comes off as douche-y, especially considering some other comments he includes from the classic privileged American p.o.v. like when he says that he decided to take advantage of Spain's crappy economy and go shopping for cheap, or when he claims that having an armed guard is probably normal in Mexico City. Dude. Just. No.
Still, I think most of what rubbed me the wrong way here is due to unfortunate choice of words and not because he really is an asshole, and it will of course depend on your own world view. Maybe you agree with him. Who knows?
November 5, 2021
If you liked his first book you'll love this one. Funny stories with lessons to be learned. You're not gonna find any GNR dirt, it was a very cute and fun read. A true family man.
September 6, 2024
Den enda självhjälpsbok jag någonsin varit ens det minsta lockad av att ge min tid till. En ganska så charmig bagatell med en och annan härlig anekdot vilket väl var vad man hade väntat sig.
March 27, 2017
I originally read Duff's first book, "It's So Easy and Other Lies" shortly after reading Slash's autobiography. Between the two, I preferred Duff's book for several reasons: it was obviously written more by the musician than a ghost writer; the book had more humor in it; and the story extended to the Velvet Revolver era. I'm happy to pick up another book by McKagan based on that one, although where "It's So Easy..." was a great biography for any music fan "How to Be a Man (And Other Illusions)" is definitely more in the vein of for hardcore fans only.
The style of this book is about half life lessons and half biography of events since "It's So Easy..." was published. That includes some very cool events, including a book tour, a new band (the excellent Walking Papers that I'd recommend any rock fans check out), and even some reconciliation with Axl Rose. The events stop short of the Guns 'n Roses reunion however, which is unfortunate because the story of Axl and Slash patching things up would probably be the most fascinating story in any Guns 'n Roses biography.
Interspersed in those biographical chapters are life lessons from Duff. There are also several short chapters on subjects like dating and parenting, some more successful than others. My main criticism of the advice portions of this book is that McKagan seem to be writing as a character. Much of the advice begins "Make sure your chick...." or something in similar vernacular. While McKagan certainly has a rock and roll attitude to much of his writing, he also comes across much more intelligent in most of his writing that he does when boiling things down to life lessons.
I loved the section on 100+ records every dude should own which gave me some solid education on punk rock. The section on books to read was less successful as it was much more limited in its variety. The van tour by Walking Papers was probably the backbone of the book and served as an interesting anchor to keep coming back to, however the shadow of the Guns 'n Roses reunion hangs over the book as the mega event that the reader knows the outcome of but knows will take place after the book is over.
With all of the excitement of Guns 'n Roses successful reunion as well as the popularity of McKagan's daughter's band The Pink Slips, one can only suspect that McKagan will have plenty of material for another installment in his biography series. If Chris Jericho and Theodore Roosevelt can justify three volume biography sets, then the bass player from GnR, Loaded, Velvet Revolver, Walking Papers and more will have me back at the book store for round three as well.
The style of this book is about half life lessons and half biography of events since "It's So Easy..." was published. That includes some very cool events, including a book tour, a new band (the excellent Walking Papers that I'd recommend any rock fans check out), and even some reconciliation with Axl Rose. The events stop short of the Guns 'n Roses reunion however, which is unfortunate because the story of Axl and Slash patching things up would probably be the most fascinating story in any Guns 'n Roses biography.
Interspersed in those biographical chapters are life lessons from Duff. There are also several short chapters on subjects like dating and parenting, some more successful than others. My main criticism of the advice portions of this book is that McKagan seem to be writing as a character. Much of the advice begins "Make sure your chick...." or something in similar vernacular. While McKagan certainly has a rock and roll attitude to much of his writing, he also comes across much more intelligent in most of his writing that he does when boiling things down to life lessons.
I loved the section on 100+ records every dude should own which gave me some solid education on punk rock. The section on books to read was less successful as it was much more limited in its variety. The van tour by Walking Papers was probably the backbone of the book and served as an interesting anchor to keep coming back to, however the shadow of the Guns 'n Roses reunion hangs over the book as the mega event that the reader knows the outcome of but knows will take place after the book is over.
With all of the excitement of Guns 'n Roses successful reunion as well as the popularity of McKagan's daughter's band The Pink Slips, one can only suspect that McKagan will have plenty of material for another installment in his biography series. If Chris Jericho and Theodore Roosevelt can justify three volume biography sets, then the bass player from GnR, Loaded, Velvet Revolver, Walking Papers and more will have me back at the book store for round three as well.
July 14, 2018
Absolutely awful! I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by, what I can only describe as, a ‘smiling, raspy’ voice which just added to the feeling of being patronised by the words in this book.
I found the narration to be like fingernails on a chalkboard and the content was an ‘idiots' guide to common sense & life’. This is just a series of ramblings and unrelated anecdotes that had no substance to it and no connection between them.
I would like to read his first book to see some of the background to one of rock’s most iconic bands but this is one that you can skip without losing a a single minute’s sleep. No.
I found the narration to be like fingernails on a chalkboard and the content was an ‘idiots' guide to common sense & life’. This is just a series of ramblings and unrelated anecdotes that had no substance to it and no connection between them.
I would like to read his first book to see some of the background to one of rock’s most iconic bands but this is one that you can skip without losing a a single minute’s sleep. No.
September 24, 2015
Very random, some parts were interesting and others, not so much. It is nice to see a rock n roll survivor gushing about being a Dad and a husband, and I applaud his continuing sobriety. I just didn't care for this one as much as "It's So Easy (and other lies)".
September 14, 2018
Whilst this wasn't a very long book or high literature, I felt it was a great uplifting read. The few pages he wrote about depression were worth the 5 stars ! Seems a very down to earth guy and he seems grateful to have gotten a second chance at life. Plus my copy is signed... so that's a bonus :)
April 23, 2016
This was a very entertaining book but I was a little disappointed because I thought It's So Easy was so well done.
May 12, 2021
In the early 80s when I first stepped into the Rainbow I didn’t know where life would take me . A friend repeatedly drug me with her to a friend’s apartment where some of the Guns n Roses guys would hang out. It was filthy, reeked of heroin which is a smell that once you’ve experienced it you never forget. So, my friend would say we’ll go out, but I soon found she’d ended up addicted too and these people didn’t care about anything but the next fix. Her toilet never worked and for fun whoever was there would actually bet, not for any money, but like kids they’d bet on who’s choice of apartment dwelling cockroach would climb up the wall fastest. It wasn’t me but as I didn’t drive I had no way home so I spent more nights there than I’d have liked. The smell was a disgusting mix of heroin, hair dye and vomit weren’t inviting...did I mention the roaches? I was still living at home with my mom and when I’d get back after a few days in cockroach infested stanky chaos, or usually when my friend had to get home because her mom was dying of cancer, my mom would make me knock on our door and she’d greet me with an inspection of my hair and clothes I was wearing, make me leave my overnight bag outside. I’d shower and she’d wash my clothes in the building washing machine, inspecting everything for bugs, I’d told her about the roaches, she hated bugs.
I was never impressed but this was the Hollywood cool crowd and I changed, no I never touched heroin, it absolutely freaked me out watching them get high, sharing needles and quite a few are everyday names now. You don’t know how far life has taken you until you remember those things like the smell of heroin, some things you never forget. They’ve probably forgotten plenty. I wasn’t impressed at all, especially outside the Rainbow one night when Axl tried to use a body part of mine to take some girl’s number. They had blue duck taped boots, all were unclean. No thank you, not that I was an angel, but I wasn’t a heroin angel, I begrudgingly hung with the “cool kids”.
We never know where life takes us as I said above. I never dreamed in 1999 I’d begin life as a student at an Ivy League university and graduate with honors academically and in my area of study. I was so different from the girl who stepped into the Rainbow by then even if it’d only been a few years, in those years I fell in love completely and life changed. I started a new life when that love left me and hence Ivy League me evolved, I’m always going to be the experiences of this life AND FINALLY I can say that’s why I identified with Duff’s book, that and my husband. It’s a weird thing, my husband is a Scottish doctor, good family, boarding school etc...he was SO impressed about my Hollywood days stories he’d introduce me and add on a story or two but, trust me, it was never glamorous. Yeah some good time *sly smile, but it wasn’t until I had my own apartment and I didn’t need the cool kids that I enjoyed it most because I never got sucked into their lives, a year maybe and then I was my own person. And those people would say hello or other conversations took place but...this book brought a lot back. I was so happy to see the difference in a guy like Duff.
I’m not a man, but Duff’s story, his life, what I remember vaguely of him when I was 18, it shows that at any moment your life can change entirely. Duff writes candidly about his demons, alcohol induced health scares and the woman who is now the love of his life, his life as a family man and a father to two beautiful girls who he probably guards like the secret service guards the president. It made my view of those old experiences change, always softens me to see someone finally find their bliss.
I really suggest the book, if you prefer there’s a pretty cool live video that mixes pieces of his life from the book with music I never imagined for a minute these guys, any of them, would get their act together but this one, he is rare. Read the book boys, and women you too!
I was never impressed but this was the Hollywood cool crowd and I changed, no I never touched heroin, it absolutely freaked me out watching them get high, sharing needles and quite a few are everyday names now. You don’t know how far life has taken you until you remember those things like the smell of heroin, some things you never forget. They’ve probably forgotten plenty. I wasn’t impressed at all, especially outside the Rainbow one night when Axl tried to use a body part of mine to take some girl’s number. They had blue duck taped boots, all were unclean. No thank you, not that I was an angel, but I wasn’t a heroin angel, I begrudgingly hung with the “cool kids”.
We never know where life takes us as I said above. I never dreamed in 1999 I’d begin life as a student at an Ivy League university and graduate with honors academically and in my area of study. I was so different from the girl who stepped into the Rainbow by then even if it’d only been a few years, in those years I fell in love completely and life changed. I started a new life when that love left me and hence Ivy League me evolved, I’m always going to be the experiences of this life AND FINALLY I can say that’s why I identified with Duff’s book, that and my husband. It’s a weird thing, my husband is a Scottish doctor, good family, boarding school etc...he was SO impressed about my Hollywood days stories he’d introduce me and add on a story or two but, trust me, it was never glamorous. Yeah some good time *sly smile, but it wasn’t until I had my own apartment and I didn’t need the cool kids that I enjoyed it most because I never got sucked into their lives, a year maybe and then I was my own person. And those people would say hello or other conversations took place but...this book brought a lot back. I was so happy to see the difference in a guy like Duff.
I’m not a man, but Duff’s story, his life, what I remember vaguely of him when I was 18, it shows that at any moment your life can change entirely. Duff writes candidly about his demons, alcohol induced health scares and the woman who is now the love of his life, his life as a family man and a father to two beautiful girls who he probably guards like the secret service guards the president. It made my view of those old experiences change, always softens me to see someone finally find their bliss.
I really suggest the book, if you prefer there’s a pretty cool live video that mixes pieces of his life from the book with music I never imagined for a minute these guys, any of them, would get their act together but this one, he is rare. Read the book boys, and women you too!
August 25, 2023
I really liked hearing his anecdotes about life on the road (and how every musician, regardless of how rock you are or not, seemingly jams together and knows each other), and he’s a decent writer. Coolest part of the whole book for me was definitely hearing how he started rekindling the relationship with Axl and his overall adult perspective on his youth fame/mature realization that rock star is a job like anything else. Enjoyed his martial arts discipline teachings, and I thought it was cool that he envisioned his gear onstage as a sort of focusing/safe place when he was in stressful situations he was nervous about. “Forge ahead. Try harder. Do the thing directly in front of you, and don’t think beyond that. Head down. Ears pinned back. Move in a direct line.”
Albums to check out:
- Adam and the Ants - Kings of the Western Frontier
- The Avengers - The American In Me
- Jeff Beck - Blow by Blow
- Biffy Clyro - Opposites
- Jeff Buckley - Grace
- T-Bone Burnett - Truth Through the Night
- Kate Bush - Lionheart
- Buzzcocks - Singles Going Steady
- Cameo - Word Up!
- Nick Cave - Murder Ballads
- Cheap Trick - At Budokan
- The Cult - Electric
- Dag - Righteous
- The Dead Boys - Young, Loud, and Snotty
- Death Cab for Cutie - Something About Airplanes
- The Deftones - White Pony
- Greg Dulli
- Earth, Wind, and Fire - That’s The Way of the World
- Fear - The Record
- Generation X - Generation X
- Germs - GI
- Gutter Twins - Saturnalia
- PJ Harvey - To Bring You My Love
- Heart - Dreamboat Annie
- Hellacopters - Super Shitty to the Max
- Etta James - The Essential
- Jane’s Addiction - Ritual de lo Habitual
- Joy Division - Closer
- Killing Joke - Killing Joke
- Mark Lanegan - The Winding Sheet
- Johnny Marr - The Messenger
- Mother Love Bone - Mother Love Bone
- Nashville Pussy - Let Them Eat Pussy
- The Police - Ghost in the Machine
- Queens of the Stone Age - Rated R
- The Refused - The Shape of Punk to Come
- The Saints - I’m Stranded
- Sam and Dave - Rhino Hi Five
- Screaming Trees - Sweet Oblivion
- Sly and the Family Stone - Fresh
- Spiritualized - Ladies and Gentlemen, We’re Floating Through Space
- Stiff Little Fingers - Inflammable Materials
- Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers - LAMF
- The Time - Ice Cream Castle
- The Vibrators - Pure Mania
- X - Los Angeles
- XTC - Drums and Wires
- Zeke - Flat Truckers
Book recommendations:
- Stephen Ambrose - Undaunted Courage
- Jack Black - You Can’t Win
- John Clinch - Finn
- Steve Coll - Ghost Wars
- Edward Dolnick - Down the Great Unknown
- Jennifer Egan - Black Box
- Timothy Egan - Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher
- Timothy Egan - Big Burn
- Timothy Egan - Breaking Blue
- Ralph Waldo Emerson - Self Reliance
- Dexter Filkins - The Forever War
- Michael Finkel - Here Be Monsters
- Thomas Friedman - The World is Flat
- Heimlech Herrer - The White Spider
- Laura Hillenbrand - Unbroken
- Adam Hochschild - King Leopold’s Ghost
- Michael Hodgins - Reluctant Warrior
- Sebastian Junger - War
- Steve Kasher - Max’s Kansas City
- Michael Korda - With Wings Like Eagles
- Jon Krakauer - Into Thin Air
- Peter Krass - Carnegie
- John D. Luckacs - Escape from Davao
- Cormac McCarthy - Blood Meridian
- Cormac McCarthy - Outer Dark
- Christopher Moore - Lamb
- Andrew Nagorski - The Greatest Battle
- Andrew Nagorski - Hitlerland
- Miklos Nyiszli - Auschwitz
- Michael B. Oren - Power, Faith, and Fantasy
- Donald Ray Pollack - The Devil All the Time
- Donald Ray Pollack - Knockemstiff
- Andres Resendez - A Land So Strange
- William L. Shirer - The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich
- Upton Sinclair - The Jungle
- Upton Sinclair - King Coal
- Upton Sinclair - The Moneychangers
- Corey Taylor - Seven Deadly Sins
- Rachel Trezise - Dial M for Merthyr
- Paul Trynka - Iggy Pop
Albums to check out:
- Adam and the Ants - Kings of the Western Frontier
- The Avengers - The American In Me
- Jeff Beck - Blow by Blow
- Biffy Clyro - Opposites
- Jeff Buckley - Grace
- T-Bone Burnett - Truth Through the Night
- Kate Bush - Lionheart
- Buzzcocks - Singles Going Steady
- Cameo - Word Up!
- Nick Cave - Murder Ballads
- Cheap Trick - At Budokan
- The Cult - Electric
- Dag - Righteous
- The Dead Boys - Young, Loud, and Snotty
- Death Cab for Cutie - Something About Airplanes
- The Deftones - White Pony
- Greg Dulli
- Earth, Wind, and Fire - That’s The Way of the World
- Fear - The Record
- Generation X - Generation X
- Germs - GI
- Gutter Twins - Saturnalia
- PJ Harvey - To Bring You My Love
- Heart - Dreamboat Annie
- Hellacopters - Super Shitty to the Max
- Etta James - The Essential
- Jane’s Addiction - Ritual de lo Habitual
- Joy Division - Closer
- Killing Joke - Killing Joke
- Mark Lanegan - The Winding Sheet
- Johnny Marr - The Messenger
- Mother Love Bone - Mother Love Bone
- Nashville Pussy - Let Them Eat Pussy
- The Police - Ghost in the Machine
- Queens of the Stone Age - Rated R
- The Refused - The Shape of Punk to Come
- The Saints - I’m Stranded
- Sam and Dave - Rhino Hi Five
- Screaming Trees - Sweet Oblivion
- Sly and the Family Stone - Fresh
- Spiritualized - Ladies and Gentlemen, We’re Floating Through Space
- Stiff Little Fingers - Inflammable Materials
- Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers - LAMF
- The Time - Ice Cream Castle
- The Vibrators - Pure Mania
- X - Los Angeles
- XTC - Drums and Wires
- Zeke - Flat Truckers
Book recommendations:
- Stephen Ambrose - Undaunted Courage
- Jack Black - You Can’t Win
- John Clinch - Finn
- Steve Coll - Ghost Wars
- Edward Dolnick - Down the Great Unknown
- Jennifer Egan - Black Box
- Timothy Egan - Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher
- Timothy Egan - Big Burn
- Timothy Egan - Breaking Blue
- Ralph Waldo Emerson - Self Reliance
- Dexter Filkins - The Forever War
- Michael Finkel - Here Be Monsters
- Thomas Friedman - The World is Flat
- Heimlech Herrer - The White Spider
- Laura Hillenbrand - Unbroken
- Adam Hochschild - King Leopold’s Ghost
- Michael Hodgins - Reluctant Warrior
- Sebastian Junger - War
- Steve Kasher - Max’s Kansas City
- Michael Korda - With Wings Like Eagles
- Jon Krakauer - Into Thin Air
- Peter Krass - Carnegie
- John D. Luckacs - Escape from Davao
- Cormac McCarthy - Blood Meridian
- Cormac McCarthy - Outer Dark
- Christopher Moore - Lamb
- Andrew Nagorski - The Greatest Battle
- Andrew Nagorski - Hitlerland
- Miklos Nyiszli - Auschwitz
- Michael B. Oren - Power, Faith, and Fantasy
- Donald Ray Pollack - The Devil All the Time
- Donald Ray Pollack - Knockemstiff
- Andres Resendez - A Land So Strange
- William L. Shirer - The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich
- Upton Sinclair - The Jungle
- Upton Sinclair - King Coal
- Upton Sinclair - The Moneychangers
- Corey Taylor - Seven Deadly Sins
- Rachel Trezise - Dial M for Merthyr
- Paul Trynka - Iggy Pop
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2019
I've found as I've grown older I'm a sucker for a Auto/Biography - hell, half the time they don't even have to be that good for me to enjoy them. It's all about the journey, y'know? Duff kinda extolls this same kinda mindset throughout his second book. Perspective and gratitude seep from its pages.
I bought "Welcome to the Jungle" on 7" vinyl back in 1987 before its re-release and as searing as that slice of Rock was, I must have worn out it's B-side: a live recording of AC/DC's "Whole Lotta Rosie" from their show at The Marquee in London earlier that same year. It was incendiary.
Their first album "Appetite for Destruction" is unquestionably a stone-cold classic - with THAT original cover getting them major coverage in the mainstream music press before that gorgeous slab of vinyl had been pulled from its sleeve. It was a major a game-changer - kicking off a resurgence in Rock that would pave the way for a tsunami of some of the most incredible new Rock and Metal bands throughout the 1990's. No question about it, if you were a Rock fan in the '90's you were spoiled rotten not just by the sheer volume of albums released, but the actual quality of the material and the bands creating them (Corrosion of Conformity, Pantera, Queensryche, Helmet, Saigon Kick, White Zombie, Soundgarden, Warrior Soul, Kyuss... I could go on - seriously, the list is huge). If you were there, you know.
All of this aside, (and having seen them live only once prior to their implosion), I was not a huge fan of Gn'R. They were good, they rocked, and I got it. But with so much other music coming down that pipe behind them, after "Appetite" I didn't pay them too much attention (I remember hearing "Coma", "Civil War" and of course - "November Rain" a few years down the line and being impressed, but my time with Gn'R was as short as their explosive fuse.
Reading the title of this book, I went in ready to be a little disappointed by what may have been awaiting me inside - but don't let that deceive you - Duff comes across as a genuine, down-to-Earth guy who has lived it, weathered storms, controversies, said goodbye to body parts, survived addiction and mental illness and come thru it the other side a better man who counts his blessings every day and appreciates the tangible things in his life like his family, pets and friends - oh, and naturally... music. What's that saying again? "Never judge a book by it's cover." Busted m'lud.
By the time I finished this book I had a renewed respect for Duff, you can just tell that if your paths were to cross, you could sit and chew the shit with him and it would be like you'd known each other forever. He also plays his Bass slung low too, and that always gets major cool points from me. He also loves Prince and has a surprisingly good eclectic taste in music too (although I gotta draw the line at Green Day, sorry Duff). But the Prince thing? Major bonus points there.
Duff McKagan (or "Doug" and many variations thereof as he is known to receptionists worldwide) is a grounded guy, a straight-shooter and one cool fucker. Read it, you'll like him.
Oh, and don't forget to buy a T-shirt at the merch. stall after a gig.
Support your jobbing Musicians!
I bought "Welcome to the Jungle" on 7" vinyl back in 1987 before its re-release and as searing as that slice of Rock was, I must have worn out it's B-side: a live recording of AC/DC's "Whole Lotta Rosie" from their show at The Marquee in London earlier that same year. It was incendiary.
Their first album "Appetite for Destruction" is unquestionably a stone-cold classic - with THAT original cover getting them major coverage in the mainstream music press before that gorgeous slab of vinyl had been pulled from its sleeve. It was a major a game-changer - kicking off a resurgence in Rock that would pave the way for a tsunami of some of the most incredible new Rock and Metal bands throughout the 1990's. No question about it, if you were a Rock fan in the '90's you were spoiled rotten not just by the sheer volume of albums released, but the actual quality of the material and the bands creating them (Corrosion of Conformity, Pantera, Queensryche, Helmet, Saigon Kick, White Zombie, Soundgarden, Warrior Soul, Kyuss... I could go on - seriously, the list is huge). If you were there, you know.
All of this aside, (and having seen them live only once prior to their implosion), I was not a huge fan of Gn'R. They were good, they rocked, and I got it. But with so much other music coming down that pipe behind them, after "Appetite" I didn't pay them too much attention (I remember hearing "Coma", "Civil War" and of course - "November Rain" a few years down the line and being impressed, but my time with Gn'R was as short as their explosive fuse.
Reading the title of this book, I went in ready to be a little disappointed by what may have been awaiting me inside - but don't let that deceive you - Duff comes across as a genuine, down-to-Earth guy who has lived it, weathered storms, controversies, said goodbye to body parts, survived addiction and mental illness and come thru it the other side a better man who counts his blessings every day and appreciates the tangible things in his life like his family, pets and friends - oh, and naturally... music. What's that saying again? "Never judge a book by it's cover." Busted m'lud.
By the time I finished this book I had a renewed respect for Duff, you can just tell that if your paths were to cross, you could sit and chew the shit with him and it would be like you'd known each other forever. He also plays his Bass slung low too, and that always gets major cool points from me. He also loves Prince and has a surprisingly good eclectic taste in music too (although I gotta draw the line at Green Day, sorry Duff). But the Prince thing? Major bonus points there.
Duff McKagan (or "Doug" and many variations thereof as he is known to receptionists worldwide) is a grounded guy, a straight-shooter and one cool fucker. Read it, you'll like him.
Oh, and don't forget to buy a T-shirt at the merch. stall after a gig.
Support your jobbing Musicians!
April 23, 2018
Trigger warnings for this book: Light discussion of sex, drugs and rock n roll, but not as much as in Duff's first book "It's So Easy", also there is talk of at least one suicide(by drugs)
I highlighted 4 stars, but really I would give this 4.5. I am a HUGE Duff McKagan and Guns and Roses fan. I loved Duff's book "It's So Easy(and other lies), so I had high expectations for this book. I was not disappointed! Duff continues to have a very laid back writing style, informative but not inaccessible. I love his story of coming back from near death to return to being a successful author, as well as a loving husband and father. When you read his books, you don't think "Ugh, another successful person whining about celebrity life and bragging about their comeback". Instead, you end up thinking "I am genuinely happy for this guy! He sounds like he really made a positive turnaround!" It makes for a great read each time, and I would definitely recommend any of his writings to others who like this rock n roll bio genre.
I would have given this book a 5-star rating if it didn't have these TINY flaws:
-The book may be about "being a man", but did the reader really need to experience three chapters about sports watching, even if it is about a "personal journey"?
-I became slightly annoyed because this book far more than his other one was much more like a magazine column(yeah I get that he writes those), as in "HAHAHA! You know what I am talking about, don't you subscriber? Those teenage girls.... Those sports games.... My lady.... My DUDES....(you'll only understand this when you read the book, which I still enthusiastically recommend)
The chapters on CD, book and travel recommendations are really awesome! They make this book worth it, and account for at least one of the whole stars I gave this book. Also, I was pleasantly surprised at some of the relationship advice he had(mostly about listening and letting your partner be themselves). Don't let my griping sway you against this book. I did enjoy it! Duff and GNR fans will for sure love this!
I highlighted 4 stars, but really I would give this 4.5. I am a HUGE Duff McKagan and Guns and Roses fan. I loved Duff's book "It's So Easy(and other lies), so I had high expectations for this book. I was not disappointed! Duff continues to have a very laid back writing style, informative but not inaccessible. I love his story of coming back from near death to return to being a successful author, as well as a loving husband and father. When you read his books, you don't think "Ugh, another successful person whining about celebrity life and bragging about their comeback". Instead, you end up thinking "I am genuinely happy for this guy! He sounds like he really made a positive turnaround!" It makes for a great read each time, and I would definitely recommend any of his writings to others who like this rock n roll bio genre.
I would have given this book a 5-star rating if it didn't have these TINY flaws:
-The book may be about "being a man", but did the reader really need to experience three chapters about sports watching, even if it is about a "personal journey"?
-I became slightly annoyed because this book far more than his other one was much more like a magazine column(yeah I get that he writes those), as in "HAHAHA! You know what I am talking about, don't you subscriber? Those teenage girls.... Those sports games.... My lady.... My DUDES....(you'll only understand this when you read the book, which I still enthusiastically recommend)
The chapters on CD, book and travel recommendations are really awesome! They make this book worth it, and account for at least one of the whole stars I gave this book. Also, I was pleasantly surprised at some of the relationship advice he had(mostly about listening and letting your partner be themselves). Don't let my griping sway you against this book. I did enjoy it! Duff and GNR fans will for sure love this!
October 8, 2019
It's been eight days since I finished this book. For about a week I was left with a huge hangover of the bookish variety (the only kind I ever experience, and it's enough on my poor brain so it's not like I'm complaining anyways).
As it happened with McKagan's first book It's So Easy: And Other Lies I was hit,emotionally, from a variety of angles during this reading experience. I certainly had already nursed a considerable amount of respect for him as an artist as well as a person, but even I couldn't predict how invested I'd be in this particular reading.
I started my review of McKagan's first book by saying that I had shed a tear (or a few) while reading. This one was a more radical experience. I guess that once you leave behind getting a glimpse of his rock n roll side and the person takes center stage, it feels different. It gets easier to relate or empathize... Or something. I honestly can't put my finger on what exactly changed between my reading of the first book and this one, but some major shift took place, that's for sure.
Now, I gave McKagan's first one five solid stars, while I'm giving this one four. The quality of the writing didn't change so much. It's certainly not worse in that aspect (if anything, McKagan's footing as a writer feels all the more firm). However, something about the voice in which this part of the story was told seemed a bit different than the first one. I'm going to put the blame on the editing (because I can definitely tell it could have been much better).
I'm not even taking away one star because of the disagreements I may have had with some of his views on some topics (and trust me, as a daughter with a father, I have some notes). The problem is, while this book didn't *feel* like a five-star read for me, it gets tricky when I try to put into words what I found lacking in the final product. The reality is that sometimes I just get a certain feeling I can be shit at explaining. I'm a much better writer when I deal with one of my characters.
This isn't the review this book deserves. This isn't the review I was planning to write (I had the idea of putting together something that made sense, something that did justice to both my enjoyment of the book and my deep respect for its author). However, this is all I have, because I feel that if I keep trying to get it better, it will eventually become a frustrating task and I won't ever be happy with it. So here we are.
As it happened with McKagan's first book It's So Easy: And Other Lies I was hit,emotionally, from a variety of angles during this reading experience. I certainly had already nursed a considerable amount of respect for him as an artist as well as a person, but even I couldn't predict how invested I'd be in this particular reading.
I started my review of McKagan's first book by saying that I had shed a tear (or a few) while reading. This one was a more radical experience. I guess that once you leave behind getting a glimpse of his rock n roll side and the person takes center stage, it feels different. It gets easier to relate or empathize... Or something. I honestly can't put my finger on what exactly changed between my reading of the first book and this one, but some major shift took place, that's for sure.
Now, I gave McKagan's first one five solid stars, while I'm giving this one four. The quality of the writing didn't change so much. It's certainly not worse in that aspect (if anything, McKagan's footing as a writer feels all the more firm). However, something about the voice in which this part of the story was told seemed a bit different than the first one. I'm going to put the blame on the editing (because I can definitely tell it could have been much better).
I'm not even taking away one star because of the disagreements I may have had with some of his views on some topics (and trust me, as a daughter with a father, I have some notes). The problem is, while this book didn't *feel* like a five-star read for me, it gets tricky when I try to put into words what I found lacking in the final product. The reality is that sometimes I just get a certain feeling I can be shit at explaining. I'm a much better writer when I deal with one of my characters.
This isn't the review this book deserves. This isn't the review I was planning to write (I had the idea of putting together something that made sense, something that did justice to both my enjoyment of the book and my deep respect for its author). However, this is all I have, because I feel that if I keep trying to get it better, it will eventually become a frustrating task and I won't ever be happy with it. So here we are.
Read
May 22, 2021I had checked out Duff’s first memoir, despite not being a huge GnR or Velvet Revolver fan (though I have since favourably revisited their music) because a friend had recommended it as being a well-written and enjoyable read. I had to concur, so was happy to seek out his second book.
I wasn’t sure where Duff was going to go with this one as he had already told his life story across his first book. There is some re-treading of past, but this book mostly chronicles his 50th year of life, framed as the titular guide.
As the title suggests, the book is set out like a guide for being a man, but Duff is educated and enlightened enough that his suggestions are not knuckle-dragging macho ideals of ‘manliness’, indeed he credits the women in his life for helping to make him the man he is.
Duff split his year between the luxury rock juggernaut ‘Kings of Chaos’ and his new band ‘the Walking Papers’ who were doing a shoe-string tour in a van, mostly playing support slots. In amongst that he found time to be a parent, see his local sports team win the Superbowl and briefly re-join Guns n Roses.
Just like “It’s So Easy (and Other Lies)” the writing is solid and engaging. I mean if I can read about Duff taking time out to stain his deck and still get enjoyment from it, he must be doing something right.
I wasn’t sure where Duff was going to go with this one as he had already told his life story across his first book. There is some re-treading of past, but this book mostly chronicles his 50th year of life, framed as the titular guide.
As the title suggests, the book is set out like a guide for being a man, but Duff is educated and enlightened enough that his suggestions are not knuckle-dragging macho ideals of ‘manliness’, indeed he credits the women in his life for helping to make him the man he is.
Duff split his year between the luxury rock juggernaut ‘Kings of Chaos’ and his new band ‘the Walking Papers’ who were doing a shoe-string tour in a van, mostly playing support slots. In amongst that he found time to be a parent, see his local sports team win the Superbowl and briefly re-join Guns n Roses.
Just like “It’s So Easy (and Other Lies)” the writing is solid and engaging. I mean if I can read about Duff taking time out to stain his deck and still get enjoyment from it, he must be doing something right.
August 7, 2017
I get it. I do. His life was a mess, he was eating his own vomit for the sake of a drink but he ultimately turned it around and is in a good place now, which is great; unfortunately former addicts often run the risk of coming of a bit preachy when they talk about they turned their lives around and to be honest it makes the rest of us feel somewhat inadequate!
McKagan does a reasonable job of recounting how he turned things around and where he is now but I found the constant name-dropping and martial-arts references tiresome. Die hard fans will no doubt lap it up though, particularly the latter part of the book that talks about playing with Guns N' Roses and jamming with some of the original members, there's definite interest there. Not to forget Andrew, one lucky Aerosmith fan who struck the fan jackpot - that was a cool anecdote, I'd have liked more of that :)
McKagan does a reasonable job of recounting how he turned things around and where he is now but I found the constant name-dropping and martial-arts references tiresome. Die hard fans will no doubt lap it up though, particularly the latter part of the book that talks about playing with Guns N' Roses and jamming with some of the original members, there's definite interest there. Not to forget Andrew, one lucky Aerosmith fan who struck the fan jackpot - that was a cool anecdote, I'd have liked more of that :)
October 30, 2017
Interesting stories from the bass player of one of the biggest rock bands in the world Guns N' Roses. He talks about the period of 2012 - 2014 in his life, period where he is sober for many years and has a family. It is interesting to see how he is adjusting to this period after the years spend as a rock star filled with drugs, alcohol and women. He is finding new challenges to keep his mind occupied and away from drugs and alcohol and maintaining the spark for music in same time. But most important being good father and husband. There are many positive lessons that can be learnt from this book and from men that has been trough the worst and returned to the right way. All in all very good book I would definitively read his first book.
March 7, 2018
An enjoyable book for me, but I think you need to be the right demographic. As a mid-40s Gun 'n Roses fan, I think I am that demographic.
This book provides a lot of advice in the context of his memoirs. Mostly about how he's grown up since he got a family and dropped the substance abuse. There's nothing earth shattering here but it's interesting to hear someone who's had a very different path in life come to similar conclusions about what's important in life. Mostly it boils down to being a decent human being and working hard.
This book provides a lot of advice in the context of his memoirs. Mostly about how he's grown up since he got a family and dropped the substance abuse. There's nothing earth shattering here but it's interesting to hear someone who's had a very different path in life come to similar conclusions about what's important in life. Mostly it boils down to being a decent human being and working hard.
May 24, 2019
This was a really rivetting memoir filled with great advice, wisdom, and amusing anecdotes. Duff has really ahown himself to be a smart, respectable man who was able to pull himself up from hia darkest days and he shows the value of health, happiness, and family over fame.
The lists of his favorite books and albums were a bit tough to get through in an audio format, but I think they would be cool to go back and refer to in print or ebook.
The best part of this book is that it really made me feel better about my approaching 40th birthday and all the life I still have to look forward to.
The lists of his favorite books and albums were a bit tough to get through in an audio format, but I think they would be cool to go back and refer to in print or ebook.
The best part of this book is that it really made me feel better about my approaching 40th birthday and all the life I still have to look forward to.
July 17, 2021
Duff McKagan has to be the most down to earth, relatable rock god ever. After reading his first book I felt like this was a dude I could be friends with. His second book is more of the same. He offers his hard won insights on life and success in a way that is neither pretentious nor self-deprecating. Unsurprisingly given the title, the book leans heavily into gender roles and stereotypes at times which would be off-putting except that it's presented as Duff's personal experience and not sweeping generalizations.
December 27, 2023
A book about love, life and the perks of tasting as much as you want from it. It's good to read for both men and women, but I think is a must for every man that wants to have a good perspective on life, parteners and what you should and should not do in different situations. It gives you a lot of life lessons in a funny writing style which makes you feel like you talk to an old friend. I would have never believed before that I would laugh at an acknowledgments chapter. Worth readind at least once in a lifetime.
December 30, 2024
Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. How to Be a Man is a follow-up to McKagan's book, It's So Easy (and Other Lies). Although you could call it a memoir, it's more of a series of essays on parenthood, being a Seahawks fan, staying sober, and taking care of your body. McKagan used to contribute to various publications, but his writing style surprised me nonetheless.
If you're interested in reading summaries of non-fiction books, check out my website: https://ericsandroni.com/
If you're interested in reading summaries of non-fiction books, check out my website: https://ericsandroni.com/
May 23, 2021
Trascurabile.
Dopo il successo dell’autobiografia “It’s so easy”, probabilmente l’editor di Duff ha pensato di “raschiare il fondo del barile” pubblicando questo libro, che è la raccolta di alcuni articoli che Duff stesso aveva scritto per quotidiani di Seattle, siti sportivi, ecc.
La raccolta non è molto organica, non appassiona il lettore e, soprattutto, ricicla senza ulteriori approfondimenti concetti ed idee già presentate nel primo libro.
Dopo il successo dell’autobiografia “It’s so easy”, probabilmente l’editor di Duff ha pensato di “raschiare il fondo del barile” pubblicando questo libro, che è la raccolta di alcuni articoli che Duff stesso aveva scritto per quotidiani di Seattle, siti sportivi, ecc.
La raccolta non è molto organica, non appassiona il lettore e, soprattutto, ricicla senza ulteriori approfondimenti concetti ed idee già presentate nel primo libro.
June 1, 2021
Guide to living life right by a famous Seattle 4 Stringer
Fantastic, practical, humorous, and all around sound advice from a guy who’s lived one Hell of an interesting life. Who else could thank Marshawn Lynch, Steven Tyler and Old Spice in their acknowledgements? Breezed through this in a couple of days and I can’t wait to read his first book. This book was entertaining and insightful, highly recommended!
Fantastic, practical, humorous, and all around sound advice from a guy who’s lived one Hell of an interesting life. Who else could thank Marshawn Lynch, Steven Tyler and Old Spice in their acknowledgements? Breezed through this in a couple of days and I can’t wait to read his first book. This book was entertaining and insightful, highly recommended!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews