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Outside the Jukebox: How I Turned My Vintage Music Obsession Into My Dream Gig
From the creator of the sensation Postmodern Jukebox -- with millions of fans globally -- comes an inspirational memoir about discovering what you love and turning it into a creative movement.
With student loan debt piling up and no lucrative gigs around the corner, Scott Bradlee found himself in a situation all too familiar to struggling musicians and creative professionals, unsure whether he should use the little income he had to pay his rent or to avoid defaulting on his loans. It was under these desperate circumstances that Bradlee began experimenting, applying his passion for jazz, ragtime, and doo wop styles to contemporary hits by singers like Macklemore and Miley Cyrus--and suddenly an idea was born.
Today, Postmodern Jukebox -- the rotating supergroup devoted to period covers of pop songs, which Bradlee created in a basement apartment in Queens, New York--is a bona fide global sensation, having collected more than three million subscribers on YouTube while selling out major venues around the world and developing previously unknown talent into superstar singers. From its Etta James-inspired rendition of Radiohead's "Creep" to its New Orleans jazz interpretation of Meghan Trainor's "All About That Bass," the group has established a sound like no other, crafting hits as exquisitely sublime as they are humorously absurd.
But it wasn't always as easy as the YouTube videos make it look. As he worked to establish Postmodern Jukebox, Bradlee struggled through the obstacles that every self-employed artist or entrepreneur with a vision how to collaborate successfully on teams with divergent visions, how to outrun the naysayers, how to chase the next innovation when your reputation makes others start to pigeonhole you, and so many of the other challenges lining the path to success.
Taking readers through the false starts, hilarious backstage antics, and unexpected breakthroughs of Bradlee's journey from a lost musician to a musical kingmaker -- and presenting all the entrepreneurial insights he learned along the way -- Outside the Jukebox is an inspiring memoir about how one musician found his rhythm and launched a movement that would forever change our relationships to our favorite songs.
With student loan debt piling up and no lucrative gigs around the corner, Scott Bradlee found himself in a situation all too familiar to struggling musicians and creative professionals, unsure whether he should use the little income he had to pay his rent or to avoid defaulting on his loans. It was under these desperate circumstances that Bradlee began experimenting, applying his passion for jazz, ragtime, and doo wop styles to contemporary hits by singers like Macklemore and Miley Cyrus--and suddenly an idea was born.
Today, Postmodern Jukebox -- the rotating supergroup devoted to period covers of pop songs, which Bradlee created in a basement apartment in Queens, New York--is a bona fide global sensation, having collected more than three million subscribers on YouTube while selling out major venues around the world and developing previously unknown talent into superstar singers. From its Etta James-inspired rendition of Radiohead's "Creep" to its New Orleans jazz interpretation of Meghan Trainor's "All About That Bass," the group has established a sound like no other, crafting hits as exquisitely sublime as they are humorously absurd.
But it wasn't always as easy as the YouTube videos make it look. As he worked to establish Postmodern Jukebox, Bradlee struggled through the obstacles that every self-employed artist or entrepreneur with a vision how to collaborate successfully on teams with divergent visions, how to outrun the naysayers, how to chase the next innovation when your reputation makes others start to pigeonhole you, and so many of the other challenges lining the path to success.
Taking readers through the false starts, hilarious backstage antics, and unexpected breakthroughs of Bradlee's journey from a lost musician to a musical kingmaker -- and presenting all the entrepreneurial insights he learned along the way -- Outside the Jukebox is an inspiring memoir about how one musician found his rhythm and launched a movement that would forever change our relationships to our favorite songs.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published June 12, 2018
39 people are currently reading
771 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 30, 2019
Postmodern Jukebox са единствените, които могат да ме накарат да си пусна неща като Bad Romance или пък Shape of You, да придадат стилен привкус на Careless Whisper и Maps или пък да ми помогнат да открия напълно непознати за мен парчета като All The Small Things и Take Me to Church (да, моя грешка, знам). Създателят на аморфната джаз-соул-суинг и каква ли още не „винтидж“ група Скот Брадли скача с нас в заешката дупка и ни показва по доста незасукан начин каква е цената на това да превърнеш мечтата си в действителност – любов, любов и още любов. А, да, и ужасно много бачкане.
С всяка авто/биография на някого, чийто живот си заслужава записването, все повече се убеждавам, че твърде много велики начинания започват в нечие мазе. Още като тийнейджър, на когото не му е много ясно бъдещето, Скот отскача през почивните дни до притегателния Ню Йорк – Меката и Медината на музикалния бизнес, за да послуша полунелегално малко джаз из задимените клубове. Тогава, като всеки младеж, пред когото целият живот все още предстои, той се зарекъл, че един ден ще покори този град и ще свири в известната зала Radio City Music Hall. Скот имал влечение към музиката още от малък, но се оказало, че уроците по пиано с безкрайно свирене на класически произведения не са точно неговата силна страна. Бил малко нещо единак и чудак със странни музикални вкусове, който през тийнейджърските си години пробвал различни амплоа като ръкавици, за да провери коя му приляга най-добре. Докато се усети, вече свирел все по-сложни джаз композиции на пианото си и то без никой да го кара. Искрата се била запалила.
Когато все пак се преместил да живее в Ню Йорк, той съвсем закономерно очаквал градът да го приеме с разтворени обятия и да разпознае таланта му, още преди да е посвирил в 2-3 клуба. Ню Йорк, от своя страна, също тъй съвсем закономерно, пет пари не давал за поредния може-би-притежаващ-някакви-умения младок, който решил да цъфне на прага му. Гореспоменатото мазе било квартирата на Скот през няколкото неособено успешни години, в които той свирил на различни мероприятия, в ресторанти и където му се предложело, защото, за съжаление, дори талантливите хора трябва да ядат. Напълно класически Скот съвсем се бил отчаял и почти бил на ръба да се откаже от бляскавата музикална кариера, която така и не потръгвала, когато случайно пуснато от него клипче в YouTube го изстреляло със звездна скорост на музикалния небосвод. Разбира се, преди това Скот трябвало да се пребори с голямото космато чудовище на перфекционизма и съмнението, а по пътя му оставали и още много битки с работохолизма, но нещата потръгнали наистина добре. И все още вървят нагоре.
Не знам доколко и дали изобщо сте чували за Postmodern Jukebox. Скот Брадли твърди, че хората, които ги слушат, са основно на средна възраст, защото това е музиката от „тяхното време“. Миналата година имаха концерт в България, на който за жалост не успях да отида. Доста от ранните им клипове видимо са записвани в нещо като забутано малко стайче и изобщо не знам как става работата с акустиката, но наистина се вижда, че са вложили всичко, което имат, в изпълненията си. Всъщност пътят на Скот е типичната история за героя, който напуска дома си, претърпява много несгоди и приключения и накрая спечелва обещаната награда. Хубавото е, че е разказана от съвсем истински и доста земен човек по очарователен начин. А има ли някой, който да не обича да прочете една добра приказка?
Песните, които споменавам в началото:
Bad Romance
Shape of You
Careless Whisper
Maps
All The Small Things
Take Me to Church
Ако ви харесат, не се срамувайте да си потърсите и още.
С всяка авто/биография на някого, чийто живот си заслужава записването, все повече се убеждавам, че твърде много велики начинания започват в нечие мазе. Още като тийнейджър, на когото не му е много ясно бъдещето, Скот отскача през почивните дни до притегателния Ню Йорк – Меката и Медината на музикалния бизнес, за да послуша полунелегално малко джаз из задимените клубове. Тогава, като всеки младеж, пред когото целият живот все още предстои, той се зарекъл, че един ден ще покори този град и ще свири в известната зала Radio City Music Hall. Скот имал влечение към музиката още от малък, но се оказало, че уроците по пиано с безкрайно свирене на класически произведения не са точно неговата силна страна. Бил малко нещо единак и чудак със странни музикални вкусове, който през тийнейджърските си години пробвал различни амплоа като ръкавици, за да провери коя му приляга най-добре. Докато се усети, вече свирел все по-сложни джаз композиции на пианото си и то без никой да го кара. Искрата се била запалила.
Когато все пак се преместил да живее в Ню Йорк, той съвсем закономерно очаквал градът да го приеме с разтворени обятия и да разпознае таланта му, още преди да е посвирил в 2-3 клуба. Ню Йорк, от своя страна, също тъй съвсем закономерно, пет пари не давал за поредния може-би-притежаващ-някакви-умения младок, който решил да цъфне на прага му. Гореспоменатото мазе било квартирата на Скот през няколкото неособено успешни години, в които той свирил на различни мероприятия, в ресторанти и където му се предложело, защото, за съжаление, дори талантливите хора трябва да ядат. Напълно класически Скот съвсем се бил отчаял и почти бил на ръба да се откаже от бляскавата музикална кариера, която така и не потръгвала, когато случайно пуснато от него клипче в YouTube го изстреляло със звездна скорост на музикалния небосвод. Разбира се, преди това Скот трябвало да се пребори с голямото космато чудовище на перфекционизма и съмнението, а по пътя му оставали и още много битки с работохолизма, но нещата потръгнали наистина добре. И все още вървят нагоре.
Не знам доколко и дали изобщо сте чували за Postmodern Jukebox. Скот Брадли твърди, че хората, които ги слушат, са основно на средна възраст, защото това е музиката от „тяхното време“. Миналата година имаха концерт в България, на който за жалост не успях да отида. Доста от ранните им клипове видимо са записвани в нещо като забутано малко стайче и изобщо не знам как става работата с акустиката, но наистина се вижда, че са вложили всичко, което имат, в изпълненията си. Всъщност пътят на Скот е типичната история за героя, който напуска дома си, претърпява много несгоди и приключения и накрая спечелва обещаната награда. Хубавото е, че е разказана от съвсем истински и доста земен човек по очарователен начин. А има ли някой, който да не обича да прочете една добра приказка?
Песните, които споменавам в началото:
Bad Romance
Shape of You
Careless Whisper
Maps
All The Small Things
Take Me to Church
Ако ви харесат, не се срамувайте да си потърсите и още.
September 19, 2024
I think I should just start off with saying that Postmodern Jukebox is the only reason I listen to (and am even familiar with) some songs. As I said last Christmas when suggesting them "It's the songs you like, in the styles I love. Who doesn't win?"
I have always joked that I was born in the wrong era because I am obsessed with the past. Especially the music; so, finding Postmodern Jukebox was the greatest thing ever.
If possible, this book made me a bigger fan of not only Scott Bradlee but everyone and anyone involved in turning Postmodern Jukebox what it is today. He keeps it so real and down to earth. The way he tells his story left me with a "tell me more, tell me everything' feeling.
It's basically the same rabbit hole with the videos; you can't just watch one.
I can't not admire this success story that literally started off as a one man operation. It's come so far for something that started off on YouTube. This book tells how it all happened, from the humble beginning to, what is obviously still, the humble present.
Within the story of his ups and downs; it has a great message for both creative people (like myself) and anyone with aspirations; it's not easy but you never know what might happen if you work hard enough and don't give up.
I have always joked that I was born in the wrong era because I am obsessed with the past. Especially the music; so, finding Postmodern Jukebox was the greatest thing ever.
If possible, this book made me a bigger fan of not only Scott Bradlee but everyone and anyone involved in turning Postmodern Jukebox what it is today. He keeps it so real and down to earth. The way he tells his story left me with a "tell me more, tell me everything' feeling.
It's basically the same rabbit hole with the videos; you can't just watch one.
I can't not admire this success story that literally started off as a one man operation. It's come so far for something that started off on YouTube. This book tells how it all happened, from the humble beginning to, what is obviously still, the humble present.
Within the story of his ups and downs; it has a great message for both creative people (like myself) and anyone with aspirations; it's not easy but you never know what might happen if you work hard enough and don't give up.
June 12, 2018
By all appearances, Scott Bradlee and his ensemble cast of sheer talent and unbridled energy, Postmodern Jukebox, were an overnight success; but the real story is far more revealing and entertaining. “Outside the Jukebox” is an intimate and insightful look into the unexpected and often chaotic creative process that transforms a one-man-show into a collaborative phenomenon.
Scott writes with such keen self-awareness and refreshing candor, it feels like a casual chat at the piano bar. Between stories of behind-the-scenes antics and Scott’s quick wit, I was entertained until the very last note (I mean page). As an arts educator, I’m always on the lookout for inspiring personal stories from creative leaders. From sharing his core values that maintain a positive reputation to his strategy for building a loyal fanbase, Scott offers practical and relatable advice for any creative entrepreneur. And when things don’t go as planned, he also shares how he embraced the creative chaos and quieted his internal critic.
Scott’s memoir honors the musicians who influenced him and the fans whom he inspires – which itself is proof why Postmodern Jukebox has become a global sensation that’s both timely and timeless.
Encore, Scott Bradlee. Encore!
Scott writes with such keen self-awareness and refreshing candor, it feels like a casual chat at the piano bar. Between stories of behind-the-scenes antics and Scott’s quick wit, I was entertained until the very last note (I mean page). As an arts educator, I’m always on the lookout for inspiring personal stories from creative leaders. From sharing his core values that maintain a positive reputation to his strategy for building a loyal fanbase, Scott offers practical and relatable advice for any creative entrepreneur. And when things don’t go as planned, he also shares how he embraced the creative chaos and quieted his internal critic.
Scott’s memoir honors the musicians who influenced him and the fans whom he inspires – which itself is proof why Postmodern Jukebox has become a global sensation that’s both timely and timeless.
Encore, Scott Bradlee. Encore!
Read
April 25, 2024I don’t think I can give this an objective rating as I picked it up for a very specific purpose (I am pursuing a path as a musician that is very similar to Postmodern Jukebox). But it was incredibly helpful for me and gave me a lot of insight! I think this would be a valuable read for other musicians—possibly actors too, but I’d recommend The Actor’s Life by Jenna Fischer over this book in a heartbeat. As for readers who are not professional performing artists, I’m not sure how engaging this would be unless they were huge fans of Postmodern Jukebox. The book doesn’t have much of an emotional heartbeat—it feels much more like an instruction manual or an extended Wikipedia article in the first person—and I think that would make it hard to connect to if one wasn’t a fan of PMJ.
February 22, 2020
This is the story of how the founder of Postmodern Jukebox created the group. It’s a band with rotating performers that takes current Top 40 hits and gives them a 1930-40s swing or jazz treatment. The group started when the founder and his girlfriend made a video in his NYC basement and put it on YouTube. The video went viral and now they sell out major venues globally. I, myself, saw them at the Sydney Opera house and it was a GREAT show. An easy read.
December 9, 2020
As a four-year PMJ fan, it was fun to hear back stories behind many of the concerts I attended and come to know the band a little better.
July 19, 2018
Extremely enjoyable if you are a fan of PMJ. Watching the videos he describes as I read added to my enjoyment. The book traces the origins and rise of PMJ and might provide some insight to marketing one’s art in a digital age. Not great literature, but a fun, quick summer book.
July 11, 2021
Our president gave me this book as we were trying to court Scott Bradlee into letting us play Postmodern Jukebox (PMJ) In our restaurants. He wanted to see if I could find out everything I could to help guide a conversation between us... this book definitely helped! Very cool story not only about PMJ but Scott, his vision and how he has created a global success by modernizing ragtime music.
June 16, 2018
As a long time Postmodern Jukebox fan, I devoured this book. I loved hearing all the backstory of how one of my favorite artists--one I admire most for their creativity and uniqueness--came to be. Scott Bradlee is funny, honest, and self-deprecating throughout the book and downplays the massive amount of effort and skill it must have taken to become not only an incredibly accomplished jazz pianist but a big-time music producer. As someone who works in health care with modest musical abilities and no show biz ambitions, I enjoyed the parts about Scott Bradlee's story in particular more than the bits about how to succeed in music, but those were few and far between and did not impede my enjoyment of the book one bit.
Would highly recommend reading this to a soundtrack of Postmodern Jukebox--really rounds out the experience.
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
Would highly recommend reading this to a soundtrack of Postmodern Jukebox--really rounds out the experience.
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
April 26, 2019
Never heard of this style of music, I liked it in the end. Found how he started his you tube page rather interesting. It's all about the music not so much the musicians a very different approach to it all.
June 21, 2018
As a Postmodern Jukebox megafan, I was ecstatic when I first heard Scott Bradlee decided to write a book. I got my copy as soon as possible, and quickly realized this read would be impossible to put down. “Outside the Jukebox” translates every aspect of Bradlee’s genius from the stage to the page, serving as part-memoir and part-how-to book on creating a successful project.
This book whisks the reader through various chapters of Scott Bradlee’s life, culminating with the viral fame of Postmodern Jukebox. While I already knew the abbreviated backstory of how PMJ began, I really enjoyed obtaining an inside perspective on the group’s growth over the years. There are so many unbelievable and hilarious anecdotes, both of failure and success, tucked in this book that I gained an entirely newfound appreciation for the group by the time I finished reading.
My favorite portions of “Outside the Jukebox” contained stories about how some of PMJ’s most notable members became a part of the group. Scott Bradlee speaks of each artist so highly and respectfully, highlighting how their individual personalities make up the imperfectly perfect rag-tag team that is the PMJ collective. This book also allowed me to relive some of the most magical concert experiences of my life (most notably seeing PMJ play Radio City Music Hall). Some of my fondest memories of the group are forever immortalized through Scott’s writing, and I need only reread the pages to be reminded of such incredible experiences.
“Outside the Jukebox” truly offers something for everyone. You don’t have to be a musician or entrepreneur to take away the valuable lessons Bradlee teaches about finding your own voice in the world. Much like Postmodern Jukebox itself, this book is an ode to all the “creeps and weirdos” out there who feel like they don’t fit in well elsewhere. Scott Bradlee sees us, knows us, and has finally given us a home.
This book whisks the reader through various chapters of Scott Bradlee’s life, culminating with the viral fame of Postmodern Jukebox. While I already knew the abbreviated backstory of how PMJ began, I really enjoyed obtaining an inside perspective on the group’s growth over the years. There are so many unbelievable and hilarious anecdotes, both of failure and success, tucked in this book that I gained an entirely newfound appreciation for the group by the time I finished reading.
My favorite portions of “Outside the Jukebox” contained stories about how some of PMJ’s most notable members became a part of the group. Scott Bradlee speaks of each artist so highly and respectfully, highlighting how their individual personalities make up the imperfectly perfect rag-tag team that is the PMJ collective. This book also allowed me to relive some of the most magical concert experiences of my life (most notably seeing PMJ play Radio City Music Hall). Some of my fondest memories of the group are forever immortalized through Scott’s writing, and I need only reread the pages to be reminded of such incredible experiences.
“Outside the Jukebox” truly offers something for everyone. You don’t have to be a musician or entrepreneur to take away the valuable lessons Bradlee teaches about finding your own voice in the world. Much like Postmodern Jukebox itself, this book is an ode to all the “creeps and weirdos” out there who feel like they don’t fit in well elsewhere. Scott Bradlee sees us, knows us, and has finally given us a home.
November 19, 2020
I finished reading last night, and I have so many words and feels. I gotta say this book is kind of a gold mine. My area of creative entrepreneurship is not in any way related to music, but this book outlines practical ways to pursue any kind of "dream gig" in the arts, particularly in leveraging the technology available and using different platforms to build and engage an audience. I liked that it pointed out how technology has changed industries so that we in the arts can take control and forge our own path without necessarily needing to go through traditional routes of getting our art in front of people. Additionally, the first few chapters talk about the importance of mastering your craft, maintaining creative hunger, and not forcing ideas to come, and that was a desperately needed reminder for me.
More importantly, this story just made me feel seen. I am 💯💯💯 that kid at the school dance looking for my friends and ultimately waiting on the curb to get picked up early. I'm 💯💯💯 that kid who connected with "what the hell am I doing here" on a soulish level. This is Scotty B's story about how he found his place in this world, but it really hit home for me, and I think it will for anyone who has the proverbial and/or literal music in them, trying to break free. It's also just a really great book. Words and storytelling are my actual area, and this is a captivating story that is engaging, witty, funny, and emotional. I bought the signed copy because I thought it would fun to have, but now it's full of hundreds of post-its, highlights, and notes in the margins. 🙃
More importantly, this story just made me feel seen. I am 💯💯💯 that kid at the school dance looking for my friends and ultimately waiting on the curb to get picked up early. I'm 💯💯💯 that kid who connected with "what the hell am I doing here" on a soulish level. This is Scotty B's story about how he found his place in this world, but it really hit home for me, and I think it will for anyone who has the proverbial and/or literal music in them, trying to break free. It's also just a really great book. Words and storytelling are my actual area, and this is a captivating story that is engaging, witty, funny, and emotional. I bought the signed copy because I thought it would fun to have, but now it's full of hundreds of post-its, highlights, and notes in the margins. 🙃
July 1, 2018
Scott has a knack for storytelling (in addition to his skills as a musician, arranger, producer, etc.) so naturally I found myself smiling throughout reading Outside the Jukebox, unable to put the book down. The stories are captivating, entertaining, and informative. While I have no ambitions as a musician beyond a hobby, as an engineer I have always appreciated the behind-the-scenes look at how things are made. In his book, Scott is humble and honest as he shows the good, the bad and the crazy parts of his journey. (The Walmart story, “Aunt” Agatha, Alan Alda, and the flame-o-phone are a few of my favorite moments. As a side note, as many times as I’ve heard PMJ’s Burn cycle through on Pandora, I had never actually watched the video, but after reading that story I had to track it down just to see Adam’s reaction.)
Important life lessons, for anyone:
- Pay your bills.
- Maybe try to not share a wall with neighbors when turning your living room into a recording studio.
- Learn when to lean on the support and expertise of others, and when to trust your instincts.
- Be your own authentic self.
I’ve been a Postmodern Jukebox fan for awhile and have been to a couple shows, so I may be a little bit biased, but I can’t recommend this enough; for creative types, casual listeners, or someone looking for a good story of a guy figuring out how to make his dream a reality.
Important life lessons, for anyone:
- Pay your bills.
- Maybe try to not share a wall with neighbors when turning your living room into a recording studio.
- Learn when to lean on the support and expertise of others, and when to trust your instincts.
- Be your own authentic self.
I’ve been a Postmodern Jukebox fan for awhile and have been to a couple shows, so I may be a little bit biased, but I can’t recommend this enough; for creative types, casual listeners, or someone looking for a good story of a guy figuring out how to make his dream a reality.
September 21, 2018
A friend told me about PostModern Jukebox a couple of years ago and I was blown away by this creative and very unique musical project. I am an amateur piano player/student and I love ragtime and jazz so Bradlee's style was particularly fascinating to me. I saw this book on the new books shelf at the library, took a peek and thought it might be inspiring. It was.
It's a very quick read and I enjoyed it. I found Bradlee pretty honest and down to earth considering the level of celebrity and success he has achieved. PMJ is a unusual musical project because it has created a space for uniquely talented people who might not find a place to shine in the mainstream entertainment industry. It's also an unusual collaboration, focusing on the collective effort rather than the individual. He shares a number of kernels of wisdom from the lessons he learned along the way, an interesting book for anyone who aspires to express themselves creatively in whatever form.
Don't be a perfectionist. Keep your ego in check. Work hard but don't wait too long until you think you are "ready" to share your work. Collaborate with others. And if you are unlucky enough to want to be a professional artist, be prepared to sacrifice personal relationships, sleep, and any other interests to achieve that goal. And if you succeed, don't expect it to last unless you are willing and able to constant ly reinvent yourself.
It's a very quick read and I enjoyed it. I found Bradlee pretty honest and down to earth considering the level of celebrity and success he has achieved. PMJ is a unusual musical project because it has created a space for uniquely talented people who might not find a place to shine in the mainstream entertainment industry. It's also an unusual collaboration, focusing on the collective effort rather than the individual. He shares a number of kernels of wisdom from the lessons he learned along the way, an interesting book for anyone who aspires to express themselves creatively in whatever form.
Don't be a perfectionist. Keep your ego in check. Work hard but don't wait too long until you think you are "ready" to share your work. Collaborate with others. And if you are unlucky enough to want to be a professional artist, be prepared to sacrifice personal relationships, sleep, and any other interests to achieve that goal. And if you succeed, don't expect it to last unless you are willing and able to constant ly reinvent yourself.
June 12, 2018
This book is fabulous! I discovered Postmodern Jukebox a couple of years ago when my music teacher did a lesson based off of them. Afterwards, I went home and spent hours watching their videos and listening to their amazing music. As a jazz, rock, and pop piano player, it's great to see all the different techniques and styles that Scott Bradlee and PMJ incorporate into modern-day hits! Ever since I've started watching PMJ, I've always wanted to learn more about Scott and how he created this amazing group. When I heard Scott was going to make a book I was thrilled and so happy when I was given the chance to read it before everyone else! It's really wonderful to learn about how he got started and the inspirations Scott had as a child. From his early years as a pianist being bored out of his mind in piano lessons to being the massive success Scott is today is fascinating and truly inspiring to me as a pianist. This book is filled with so many uplifting tips and one-liners for anyone that wants to be successful at something that they're truly passionate about. Outside the Jukebox is not only a fantastic read, but one that will really inspire and enthrall anyone who reads it! I highly recommend you read this book if you are a fan of Postmodern Jukebox, Scott Bradlee, or music in general! Happy reading and kudos to Scott!!
January 7, 2019
And with that, I've finished reading my first book of the new year, Outside the Jukebox. I laughed, I cried, and I learned a lot in the process.
I didn't just learn about Scott Bradlee and Postmodern Jukebox, though.
The wisdom expressed in this book actually led me to an unexpected epiphany about myself, my own life experience, and realizing my own dreams. I cannot rave enough about this book. Outside the Jukebox is one of the most inspiring things that I have had the pleasure of reading in a very long time.
Bradlee's conversational tone makes the concepts presented relatable, even if you aren't a budding musician or entertainment personality.
I am in awe of his "go-getter" ambition and his "self-starter" drive. However, the themes of youthful irresponsibility and underachieving remind you that this man is only human.
His story shows that it is possible to make your dreams come true, but that reaching them may not look quite like what you thought that it would.
Thank you, Scott Bradlee and all of the PMJ family, for your hard work over the years, the beautiful music, and this moving story. Congratulations on your well-deserved successes and I pray that you all will continue to find many more.
I didn't just learn about Scott Bradlee and Postmodern Jukebox, though.
The wisdom expressed in this book actually led me to an unexpected epiphany about myself, my own life experience, and realizing my own dreams. I cannot rave enough about this book. Outside the Jukebox is one of the most inspiring things that I have had the pleasure of reading in a very long time.
Bradlee's conversational tone makes the concepts presented relatable, even if you aren't a budding musician or entertainment personality.
I am in awe of his "go-getter" ambition and his "self-starter" drive. However, the themes of youthful irresponsibility and underachieving remind you that this man is only human.
His story shows that it is possible to make your dreams come true, but that reaching them may not look quite like what you thought that it would.
Thank you, Scott Bradlee and all of the PMJ family, for your hard work over the years, the beautiful music, and this moving story. Congratulations on your well-deserved successes and I pray that you all will continue to find many more.
August 16, 2018
While I was fairly certain I would enjoy this book when I ordered it, as I was already a fan of Mr. Bradlee and Postmodern Jukebox, I wasn’t expecting to be quite so taken with it.
Mr. Bradlee’s amiable personality comes through with every anecdote, sharing the bad with the good in a down-to-earth manner that almost makes you forget that he’s the creator of the larger than life Postmodern Jukebox.
The stories are often funny, occasionally nerve-wracking, and there’s even a tale or two where I might have gotten just a bit misty (shut up!).
I loved the unpretentious advice about success, about the value of the company you keep and the way you treat others.
What resonated most, though (aside from video game/music/clothing references that took me right back to my childhood), were the introspective bits; about perfectionism and how it can hold us back. About feeling slightly out of place, feeling like the “weirdo” sometimes, and how that’s ok.
I highly recommend this book for all creators; whatever their medium or aspirations, there’s bound to be plenty of inspiration, delivered with a healthy dose of entertainment.
Mr. Bradlee’s amiable personality comes through with every anecdote, sharing the bad with the good in a down-to-earth manner that almost makes you forget that he’s the creator of the larger than life Postmodern Jukebox.
The stories are often funny, occasionally nerve-wracking, and there’s even a tale or two where I might have gotten just a bit misty (shut up!).
I loved the unpretentious advice about success, about the value of the company you keep and the way you treat others.
What resonated most, though (aside from video game/music/clothing references that took me right back to my childhood), were the introspective bits; about perfectionism and how it can hold us back. About feeling slightly out of place, feeling like the “weirdo” sometimes, and how that’s ok.
I highly recommend this book for all creators; whatever their medium or aspirations, there’s bound to be plenty of inspiration, delivered with a healthy dose of entertainment.
July 20, 2018
I've been a fan of PMJ ever since I heard their cover of We Can't Stop 2 years ago and almost every other song they released since then has been a hit for me. This book tells the story of PMJ's creator, Scott Bradlee from his early years up to now. It is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of the hardships, barriers, fun and laughter as PMJ evolved from its humble beginnings to what it is today, capable of sold out shows and millions of views in their Youtube Channel.
Every artist should read this book as Scott shares with his readers lots of advice on making it as a creator in this digital age, from engaging fans, to how a creative should give their very best no matter how small the gig is. There are times I read this book and would be very inspired to pick up my sax and start playing. Managing a band myself, I am very grateful that Scott shared his ways of managing PMJ and I would definitely use some of the pointers he gave! I'm reading this a second time to fully grasp all the advice he dishes out!
Totally recommend this book!
Every artist should read this book as Scott shares with his readers lots of advice on making it as a creator in this digital age, from engaging fans, to how a creative should give their very best no matter how small the gig is. There are times I read this book and would be very inspired to pick up my sax and start playing. Managing a band myself, I am very grateful that Scott shared his ways of managing PMJ and I would definitely use some of the pointers he gave! I'm reading this a second time to fully grasp all the advice he dishes out!
Totally recommend this book!
October 25, 2018
If you're a fan of the group, it's a quick and enjoyable read. But beyond that, it's really an interesting journey of how Scott built Postmodern Jukebox into what it's become, far beyond just a bunch of interesting songs and videos. I had no idea how far he'd taken it. As someone who reads a bunch of bland business books, this is a far better alternative to those as he talks about honing his product, marketing, scaling, leadership, etc. He's even got some interesting analysis on using social media. Why read some Harvard Business Review book about being creative when you can read it first hand here?
I have a few quibbles with the writing but they're not worth mentioning except for the main one. And this may be an unfair criticism, but for whatever reason, his writing voice wasn't what I was expecting. It felt like it may have gone through heavy sanitizing in the editing process. Maybe I'm wrong about that but I couldn't shake that feeling.
Overall, definitely worth the read.
I have a few quibbles with the writing but they're not worth mentioning except for the main one. And this may be an unfair criticism, but for whatever reason, his writing voice wasn't what I was expecting. It felt like it may have gone through heavy sanitizing in the editing process. Maybe I'm wrong about that but I couldn't shake that feeling.
Overall, definitely worth the read.
June 28, 2019
I didn't know I want to read this book until I read it!
Three quick thoughts about this book:
1) It was unexpectedly funny - I found myself laughing out loud, in public, as I was reading this book. Some of it was just too unbelievable or odd not to laugh. Also, I want to meet Rook. He sounds like a real hoot!
2) All great things in life require hard work and perseverance - Such is the case with PMJ. I appreciated learning the backstory and evolution of what has become PMJ today.
3) This book was an unexpected story of building a business/enterprise - Some may not realize, but Bradlee's story is analogous with building a company, particularly as entrepreneurs who have adopted the "build fast and break things" philosophy are wont to do. Bradlee was open and honest in his telling of the years it took to get to this version of PMJ. In addition, he shares where he made mistakes, learned from them and pivoted to evolve the project into a better version.
Three quick thoughts about this book:
1) It was unexpectedly funny - I found myself laughing out loud, in public, as I was reading this book. Some of it was just too unbelievable or odd not to laugh. Also, I want to meet Rook. He sounds like a real hoot!
2) All great things in life require hard work and perseverance - Such is the case with PMJ. I appreciated learning the backstory and evolution of what has become PMJ today.
3) This book was an unexpected story of building a business/enterprise - Some may not realize, but Bradlee's story is analogous with building a company, particularly as entrepreneurs who have adopted the "build fast and break things" philosophy are wont to do. Bradlee was open and honest in his telling of the years it took to get to this version of PMJ. In addition, he shares where he made mistakes, learned from them and pivoted to evolve the project into a better version.
June 30, 2018
As a fan of PMJ for a long time now, this book gives a lot of fascinating behind-the-scenes detail of their creation that I was fully unaware of. But you do not need to have ever even heard of Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox to appreciate his journey and hard-earned wisdom of how to be creative in this crazy new world of social media. Bradlee's writing is as authentic as his music, making this a fast, enjoyable, and inspiring read, even when I did frequently have to put the book down to watch all of the YouTube videos that are mentioned. Overall, I hope this book is able to find its audience outside of current PMJ fans because I think it can be inspiring to creative people from a variety of different backgrounds to find your voice, stay true to yourself, and most importantly, find your collaborators to help make your wildest dreams come true.
July 4, 2018
This behind the scenes look at Postmodern Jukebox and its creator, Scott Bradlee offers the highlights (and lows) of Bradlee’s life and career in an easy-going, relaxed and often amusing memoir.
Bradlee doesn’t delve deep into his private life or thoughts, but provides ample stories that share how he went from struggling artist, about to give up his dream, to a successful pianist and producer for PMJ. Amongst the pranks and antics of his band mates, Bradlee provides insights into what he feels is necessary for artists today to accomplish their goals.
He seems to take care to give credit to others, PMJ members or not, for their efforts that added to the success of PMJ and it appears that there is a lot more he’d say about his colleagues given the space. It did seem like Bradlee was trying to pack a lot into a short book!
*Thank you to Hachette Book Group for a few review copy.
Bradlee doesn’t delve deep into his private life or thoughts, but provides ample stories that share how he went from struggling artist, about to give up his dream, to a successful pianist and producer for PMJ. Amongst the pranks and antics of his band mates, Bradlee provides insights into what he feels is necessary for artists today to accomplish their goals.
He seems to take care to give credit to others, PMJ members or not, for their efforts that added to the success of PMJ and it appears that there is a lot more he’d say about his colleagues given the space. It did seem like Bradlee was trying to pack a lot into a short book!
*Thank you to Hachette Book Group for a few review copy.
July 15, 2018
This book is not the normal kind of book that I like to read. To be honest I only purchased the book because there was a sale on the PMJ discography and you got a discount if you bought the book too. But I was pleasently surprised upon reading it. It was fascinating reading the history of how PMJ got it's start. There were lots of juicy tidbits that I didn't know. Scott Bradlee's anecdotes were hilarious and I found myself laughing out loud on more than one occasion. The story was also honest and extremely heartwarming. I caught myself tearing up from time to time too. Scott offers lots of advice to creative types that I found applicable to myself and my own life choices. The best part about this book was that it was honest and raw and real. If you are a PMJ fan, an artist looking to head out into the world, or both you are going to love this book.
May 9, 2022
A nice motivation story about a personal success journey with all the mistakes and happiness that goes along with it. Written in a fun and interesting format, easy to digest. Some key takeaways:
* Do not respond to the haters, because then your supporters will do it themselves AND it will bond them. If there are no haters, your supporters don’t have something to cling on to :)
* Don’t strive for perfection, because your journey is just that - a continuous journey - so everything you do/build is the PREFECT thing in that timeline. In the future, there is time to do things on a better level.
* If you are not enjoying Your success, stop doing it. The point is to have fun and let the creativity flow.
* Do not respond to the haters, because then your supporters will do it themselves AND it will bond them. If there are no haters, your supporters don’t have something to cling on to :)
* Don’t strive for perfection, because your journey is just that - a continuous journey - so everything you do/build is the PREFECT thing in that timeline. In the future, there is time to do things on a better level.
* If you are not enjoying Your success, stop doing it. The point is to have fun and let the creativity flow.
February 7, 2019
It occurs to me by now, I should have an "internet: the book" shelf.
Primarily autobiography, with advice sprinkled throughout for aspiring artists/life lessons and general, Scott Bradlee describes how he went from fun, weird mashup projects to filming a viral video in his basement that eventually became a creative collective. Initially, I was a bit worried this might turn into a self-helpy kind of thing like Alexis Ohanian's Without Their Permission: How the 21st Century Will Be Made, Not Managed, but Outside the Jukebox leans far more on the biographical side. Great for any PMJ fans to see behind the scenes (especially the period when Robyn left and when they started rotating in more people).
I've also seen them twice live, both times at the Crystal Ballroom in Portland- the first time with Scott Bradlee as bandleader, and more recently with hat-dude-whose-name-escapes-me- they put on a fantastic show and well worth going to one, especially if you're a fan of their YouTube vids.
Also, pay your bills/rent, folks. Ignoring the phone doesn't make them magically go away.
Primarily autobiography, with advice sprinkled throughout for aspiring artists/life lessons and general, Scott Bradlee describes how he went from fun, weird mashup projects to filming a viral video in his basement that eventually became a creative collective. Initially, I was a bit worried this might turn into a self-helpy kind of thing like Alexis Ohanian's Without Their Permission: How the 21st Century Will Be Made, Not Managed, but Outside the Jukebox leans far more on the biographical side. Great for any PMJ fans to see behind the scenes (especially the period when Robyn left and when they started rotating in more people).
I've also seen them twice live, both times at the Crystal Ballroom in Portland- the first time with Scott Bradlee as bandleader, and more recently with hat-dude-whose-name-escapes-me- they put on a fantastic show and well worth going to one, especially if you're a fan of their YouTube vids.
Also, pay your bills/rent, folks. Ignoring the phone doesn't make them magically go away.
July 20, 2019
I love PMJ and was very excited to read this book. It did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the ride of the creation of what has become PMJ and appreciate the honesty of the struggles it took. I bought this book because on listening to an interview about it I heard the story of the music of Bioshock Infinite and can't believe I hadn't put two and two together before. I also really enjoyed the advice about the changing of the music industry and the behind the scenes of what it takes to produce and record albums. It was a fun read and I would absolutely recommend it to not only any PMJ fans but those who want to become recording artists or YouTube famous.
October 5, 2019
Ревюто в Wanderbook
За тези, които досега не са запознавали с PMJ , много грубо ще ги обобщя – Постмодърн Джукбокс са музикален колектив, който прави кавъри на популярни песни в стилове от миналия век. Представете си Джъстин Бийбър или Кеша в джаз или блус аранжимент. И са наистина наистина страхотни – открих ги по случайност, правейки проучване за лична книга, и се превърнаха в събитие, променило музикалните ми търсения.
Но аз не съм тук да ви говоря за музика. За музиката на PMJ и създаването им ще ви говори Скот Брадли, а аз тук ще ви говоря за книгата.
Когато човек реши да чете нещо биографично, се предполага, че е поне бледо заинтересуван от лицето или събитията зад книгата. Непретенциозният разказ на Скот обаче е от тези издания, които успяват да надскочат тази граница. Дори и да не сте джазово изкушен меломан, а който и да е мечтател с план и надежди, или пък обратно – останали сте без план и надежди – бих ви дала да прочете тази книга.
Съвсем подходящо за жанра, Скот Брадли започва историята си от невръстна детска възраст, зараждането на музикалните си интереси, развитието им и осъзнаването, че образованието не става за ядене. Идейната нишка на грандиозния проект, в който ще се превърне PMJ, прозира още в тези начални етапи, и постепенно успява да разцъфне и да пребъде, след неминуемите възходи и спадове. Силно препоръчвам да четете тази книга с възможност за достъп до Ютюб, защото съм уверена, че неведнъж ще ви се прииска да си пуснете нещата, за които Скот говори – най-напред с класическата Рапсодия в синьо на Гершуин и другите му първоначални вдъхновители, а после да се заровите дълбоко в каналите му и да следите прогреса на групата паралелно на текста. Аз поне така направих, и с удоволствие открих неща, за които не подозирах – като трибютите им на Никълбек.
Когато слушам музика, рядко се задълбочавам в хората и изпълнителите, които стоят зад нея. Това може би не е хубаво, и ясно показва, че не съм склонна да фенствам, поне не за музика, но ми спестява много от скандали покрай знаменитости. Затова и голяма част от личната информация, която Скот Брадли споделя, беше нова за мен... въпреки че ми ставаше хубаво, когато разпознавах имена на изпълнители, които обичам и участват (като Вон или Морган). Да си призная, останах очарована, от това, което видях в и между редовете. От хумора, насърчението и уважението, които намерих. Най-вече мисля от последното – защото сякаш това вече е рядко срещана характеристика. Едно от нещата, които най-явно отличават абсолютно всеки проект на Скот Брадли, е респектът към оригинала. Докато в коментарите може да намерите много реплики от рода на това как най-сетне са успели да направят Джонас Брадърс слушаеми, то в изпълненията на PMJ няма и намек за пародия, дори и в тези на камъка на раздора Никълбек. Целта на PMJ не е да уронят престижа на първоначалните изпълнители, или да омаловажат други музикални жанрове – те просто правят от тях нещо различно, стойностно и красиво. Техните изпълнения са имено трибюти – проекти в чест на една епоха, едно течение, а защо не – и на оригиналите.
Друго, което ме впечатли в тази насока на уважение, бе начинът, по който Скот разказваше за връзката си с Робин – една от първите певици на проекта. Това бе нещо, което можеше да се представи по начин, който да осигури сензационност, както всички любовни взаимоотношения и раздели в банди – и съответно сигурно повече продажби. Но той е избрал да остави тези неща в периферията, и да се съсредоточи на стойностното – като това изобщо не е повлияло на интереса на книгата! Мисля, че това отношение изобщо към всички участници в проекта и към идеята като цяло даде възможност на PMJ да не стане поредната банда с възход и разпад, а да прерасне в един непрестанно еволюиращ колектив, носещ една основна идея, и позволи накрая на Скот да седне в публиката и да види какво прекрасно нещо е създал.
В началото на ревюто представих „Музиката извън кутията“ като едва ли не мотивационна книга. И да, тя е такава. Скот говори много за работата, за усърдието, работата, перфекционизма и страховете – всички видове творчески страх – от бездарност, от критика, от реализация, от доверие, от отговорност – твоята пред другите и това да възложиш на някого отговорност за проекта си. Въпреки че е в сферата на музиката, съветите му са приложими в абсолютно всяка творческа сфера, и дори в нетворчески такива. Освен това, ситуациите, които той разисква, са изключително близки и реални за всеки артист или автор в епохата на интернета – той говори за виртуалната слава, за анонимните коментари и троловете, за краудфъндинг платформите. Дори и чисто практически човек може да намери полза от тази книга, не само заради мотивацията, която струи от нея. А в разговора си с читателя, Скот Брадли е толкова искренно насърчителен и не веднъж напомня, че сега е най-добрият момент да се заемат с проекта си. Тази книга може да почака. Иди. Твори. Точно по такъв начин завършва и автобиографията си, успявайки дори на мен да предаде частица от този заряд и да ме накара поне да отворя един свой стар проект.
Може да разглеждате тази книга като история за идентичност, музика и успех; ако искате пък може да я наречете мотивация с корици и прекрасен саундтрак. Факт е обаче, че „Музиката извън кутията“ може да се окаже онова малко нещо, което не ви достига, за да излете от собствената си кутия. А и.... добре, стига сме увъртали – PMJ са невероятни, пуснете си ги най-сетне!
За тези, които досега не са запознавали с PMJ , много грубо ще ги обобщя – Постмодърн Джукбокс са музикален колектив, който прави кавъри на популярни песни в стилове от миналия век. Представете си Джъстин Бийбър или Кеша в джаз или блус аранжимент. И са наистина наистина страхотни – открих ги по случайност, правейки проучване за лична книга, и се превърнаха в събитие, променило музикалните ми търсения.
Но аз не съм тук да ви говоря за музика. За музиката на PMJ и създаването им ще ви говори Скот Брадли, а аз тук ще ви говоря за книгата.
Когато човек реши да чете нещо биографично, се предполага, че е поне бледо заинтересуван от лицето или събитията зад книгата. Непретенциозният разказ на Скот обаче е от тези издания, които успяват да надскочат тази граница. Дори и да не сте джазово изкушен меломан, а който и да е мечтател с план и надежди, или пък обратно – останали сте без план и надежди – бих ви дала да прочете тази книга.
Съвсем подходящо за жанра, Скот Брадли започва историята си от невръстна детска възраст, зараждането на музикалните си интереси, развитието им и осъзнаването, че образованието не става за ядене. Идейната нишка на грандиозния проект, в който ще се превърне PMJ, прозира още в тези начални етапи, и постепенно успява да разцъфне и да пребъде, след неминуемите възходи и спадове. Силно препоръчвам да четете тази книга с възможност за достъп до Ютюб, защото съм уверена, че неведнъж ще ви се прииска да си пуснете нещата, за които Скот говори – най-напред с класическата Рапсодия в синьо на Гершуин и другите му първоначални вдъхновители, а после да се заровите дълбоко в каналите му и да следите прогреса на групата паралелно на текста. Аз поне така направих, и с удоволствие открих неща, за които не подозирах – като трибютите им на Никълбек.
Когато слушам музика, рядко се задълбочавам в хората и изпълнителите, които стоят зад нея. Това може би не е хубаво, и ясно показва, че не съм склонна да фенствам, поне не за музика, но ми спестява много от скандали покрай знаменитости. Затова и голяма част от личната информация, която Скот Брадли споделя, беше нова за мен... въпреки че ми ставаше хубаво, когато разпознавах имена на изпълнители, които обичам и участват (като Вон или Морган). Да си призная, останах очарована, от това, което видях в и между редовете. От хумора, насърчението и уважението, които намерих. Най-вече мисля от последното – защото сякаш това вече е рядко срещана характеристика. Едно от нещата, които най-явно отличават абсолютно всеки проект на Скот Брадли, е респектът към оригинала. Докато в коментарите може да намерите много реплики от рода на това как най-сетне са успели да направят Джонас Брадърс слушаеми, то в изпълненията на PMJ няма и намек за пародия, дори и в тези на камъка на раздора Никълбек. Целта на PMJ не е да уронят престижа на първоначалните изпълнители, или да омаловажат други музикални жанрове – те просто правят от тях нещо различно, стойностно и красиво. Техните изпълнения са имено трибюти – проекти в чест на една епоха, едно течение, а защо не – и на оригиналите.
Друго, което ме впечатли в тази насока на уважение, бе начинът, по който Скот разказваше за връзката си с Робин – една от първите певици на проекта. Това бе нещо, което можеше да се представи по начин, който да осигури сензационност, както всички любовни взаимоотношения и раздели в банди – и съответно сигурно повече продажби. Но той е избрал да остави тези неща в периферията, и да се съсредоточи на стойностното – като това изобщо не е повлияло на интереса на книгата! Мисля, че това отношение изобщо към всички участници в проекта и към идеята като цяло даде възможност на PMJ да не стане поредната банда с възход и разпад, а да прерасне в един непрестанно еволюиращ колектив, носещ една основна идея, и позволи накрая на Скот да седне в публиката и да види какво прекрасно нещо е създал.
В началото на ревюто представих „Музиката извън кутията“ като едва ли не мотивационна книга. И да, тя е такава. Скот говори много за работата, за усърдието, работата, перфекционизма и страховете – всички видове творчески страх – от бездарност, от критика, от реализация, от доверие, от отговорност – твоята пред другите и това да възложиш на някого отговорност за проекта си. Въпреки че е в сферата на музиката, съветите му са приложими в абсолютно всяка творческа сфера, и дори в нетворчески такива. Освен това, ситуациите, които той разисква, са изключително близки и реални за всеки артист или автор в епохата на интернета – той говори за виртуалната слава, за анонимните коментари и троловете, за краудфъндинг платформите. Дори и чисто практически човек може да намери полза от тази книга, не само заради мотивацията, която струи от нея. А в разговора си с читателя, Скот Брадли е толкова искренно насърчителен и не веднъж напомня, че сега е най-добрият момент да се заемат с проекта си. Тази книга може да почака. Иди. Твори. Точно по такъв начин завършва и автобиографията си, успявайки дори на мен да предаде частица от този заряд и да ме накара поне да отворя един свой стар проект.
Може да разглеждате тази книга като история за идентичност, музика и успех; ако искате пък може да я наречете мотивация с корици и прекрасен саундтрак. Факт е обаче, че „Музиката извън кутията“ може да се окаже онова малко нещо, което не ви достига, за да излете от собствената си кутия. А и.... добре, стига сме увъртали – PMJ са невероятни, пуснете си ги най-сетне!
May 22, 2020
This was a fun memoir from the man behind Postmodern Jukebox. This felt like a classic 4 and a half star book, but I rounded it up. Bradlee's development in the first handful of chapters is fascinating, a little less so are the chronicles of the up and down of PMJ. In the end, I rounded up because Bradlee works to connect his story with the story of any other creative people reading-- and to offer some insightful advice about staying true to your creative impulses without compromising your life or your values. Entirely worth reading if you love PMJ or if you're any kind of artist trying to figure out your path.
May 28, 2020
Enjoyable read as Scott Bradlee, the founder and musical inspiration behind Postmodern Jukebox, takes us on a ride through his beginnings in music through his triumphant appearance at his (almost) hometown Radio City Music Hall. While there are elements of the usual rags to riches, from his first You Tube videos recorded in a basement apartment in Queens, NY, to international tours at increasingly great locations throughout the world, Bradlee's telling of his tale never seems less than honest and self-aware. Definitely a good read for fans of music in general, struggling artists and, of course, for the legions of fans who enjoy the throwback sensibility of PMJ's take on contemporary songs.
December 14, 2020
I picked this book up because I was interested in how the author built his project, Postmodern Jukebox, from nothing more than a love of vintage music and a desire to do something he would really enjoy. He succeeded beyond all expectations, mostly by learning hard lessons along the way but also by being aware and staying true to his dream. Redoing popular songs into vintage formats started out as a YouTube project but has grown into multiple touring shows, several albums, and a rotating cast of talented musicians. Check out the YouTube channel, I don't think you'll be disappointed. This is the story of how it all happened. Four stars.
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