In this New York Times bestseller, host of one of the nation’s top morning shows Elvis Duran shares his wildest stories and hardest-learned lessons with his trademark honesty and “bighearted, deliciously warm” (Barbara Corcoran, star of ABC’s Shark Tank) humor.
Elvis Duran’s nationally syndicated radio program, Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, is America’s most-listened-to Top 40 morning show and one of the 10 most-listened-to programs in all of radio, heard live by nearly ten million people every morning.
But his success didn’t happen overnight. Elvis spent years navigating the wild world of radio as a DJ for hire, working (and partying) in markets around the country before taking over the morning shift at the legendary Z100 in 1996. Over the last twenty years, he has become one of New York City’s signature voices (Variety calls him “a permanent fixture of the area’s daily commutes”) thanks to his show’s exciting mix of music, new artist discovery, interviews, gossip, and live listener interaction.
Along the way, Elvis has become known not just for his incisive interviews (and occasional feuds) with pop music’s biggest stars, but for the show’s commitment to kindness and positivity and Elvis’s own candor and openness with his audience.
Bold, funny, and totally candid, Where Do I Begin? is sure to be loved by anyone who listens to Elvis live every morning—or anyone who wants to know what really goes on behind the scenes of the pop music machine from the “man who has been as big a part of the industry’s success as anyone” (Ryan Seacrest).
ELVIS DURAN is one of America's most well-known and widely admired media personalities. His nationally syndicated radio program, Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, is America's most-listened-to Top 40 morning show and one of the 10 most-listened-to programs in all of radio, heard live by nearly 10 million people in more than 80 markets across the country.
Meanwhile, Elvis's regular appearances on NBC's Today, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Entertainment Tonight, and other television shows have made him not just a beloved voice, but a familiar face for fans of pop culture.
I received a copy of this title via NetGalley. It does not impact my review.
Every morning as I get ready for work, I listen to Elvis Duran and the Morning Show. For those that don’t know, it’s a nationally syndicated radio show – number one in it’s market – based out of of New York. It’s a show with a wide variety of contributors, ideas, and gags. Sometimes they have segments that make me roll my eyes a bit, but other times I am laughing out loud or getting choked up (in a good way). Listening to the show is the best part of my morning and I have been looking forward to this book since I first heard Elvis mention it in on the air.
I really enjoyed Where Do I Begin? It read just like having a conversation with Elvis and though I am not generally an audio book reader, I definitely want to to experience this again with Elvis narrating (at least I’m assuming he’ll narrate it? If not him, my vote is definitely Greg T.). We start out hearing about how Elvis first fell in love with radio as a child. I loved learning about how this was his passion from an early age and basically the only thing he was ever interested in doing. He even built his own little radio station in his bedroom as a kid and put on a show that reached his closest neighbors – and then it blew up when he tried to give more power to the signal.
I have to admit that I was expecting a little more scandal, though. There have been multiple times listening to the show where they start talking about something and Elvis refuses to go into details, saying something like, “you’ll have to read the book.” However, there were still stories he kind of glossed over and names he wouldn’t share and while I understand that, I was kind of disappointed in it. There was also one chapter about fame that wasn’t so much about him, but of the celebrities he’s interviewed and it felt a little out of place.
I loved pretty much every other part of the book, though. Even if it didn’t go quite as in depth as I had hoped for, I feel like I learned a lot more about Elvis and about the radio industry, in general. There was also one chapter dedicated to how people basically went crazy during the 2016 election and how he wants his show to remain a positive place for all people. He reiterated what I’ve heard him say on the show, about how we can disagree with people without completely hating them. This shouldn’t be a profound idea, but it’s something people have seemed to forget lately and I really admire that he uses his platform to help build bridges between people instead of adding to the toxic political culture of blue vs red.
Overall, I really enjoyed Where Do I Begin? It’s been one of my most anticipated books of the year and it lived up to the hype for me. I’ve been a fan of Elvis for years and reading this made me just like him more. It’s definitely a must read for listeners of his show.
This is a pretty bad book--a surface look at the career of a somewhat successful radio host who humble brags throughout that he's one of the greatest in history. But he's not--he admits to failing to prepare, not being interested in working, and having no real training beyond the half dozen radio jobs he was fired from. So this book is really about brand extension--he admittedly got himself a PR pro who convinced him that he needed to expand his brand and soon he was on TV, getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (which makes no sense since he's not a national star), and "writing" this book (that he admits he didn't actually write).
There's almost nothing personal in it beyond his bragging that he's a big party boy, did a lot of drugs, had a lot of sex with very young guys, and drank a lot. That explains how a guy with little talent worked his way up in the radio business--he snorted, drank, and slept with his bosses, which he admits freely here but he fails to see that it was living wildly that allowed him to get promoted.
The comments he makes about radio are often incorrect or represent a guy who doesn't understand the overall business (though he does defend the medium as not dying). I've worked at over a dozen radio stations and much of what he claims "everyone" in radio does is just false. He has very narrow experience in radio and didn't really work successfully at many stations or in multiple formats. Much of what he describes about himself in the book explains why he's not that good on the air.
Meanwhile he skips quickly over his upbringing, doesn't discuss the fact that Elvis Duran isn't his real name, barely mentions a couple of gay lovers without going into details, and shares less about his personal life on paper than he does on his morning show.
There is one very good chapter that's surprisingly about politics. He is friends with Eric Trump and Duran reveals himself to be somewhat conservative on some issues. He admits to having voted both Republican and Democrat. His perspective on how crazy divisive people are, by rejecting someone they disagree with on only one issue, is a strong message that needs to be heard.
Otherwise the book is boring and kind of a waste of time. Entire chapters are just filler. One on what's great about New York City? Really? One about the celebrities that listen to his show and praise him? Even the section on Dr. Oz "saving" his life lacks details, and it's hypocritical for Duran to spend pages discussing his weight loss surgery and plastic surgery, then claim in his conclusion that looks don't matter. Just like he claims to be not a rich celebrity, then a few pages later says he spent $30,000 a month on clothing.
The book will be praised by those who enjoy listening to a fake morning radio show host because it's just an extension of that. But those that are looking for some real insight into this man's upbringing, lifestyle, sexuality, or career will be disappointed.
I was so excited to read this book because I grew up in Jersey listening to Elvis Duran and Z100 EVERY morning before school for YEARS. He truly was the heartbeat of morning radio for me. This book, much like his show, is wildly entertaining. He gives you inside access into the celebrities he has met, his ‘radio family’ like Danielle Monaro, 9/11, his Texas partying days, his weight loss journey and so much more. I loved that this book was told more like little anecdotes and less like one big story. It is clear he has a passion for this work and the people he does it with. This book comes out October 1st and if you are a fan of him, you will devour this.
Thank you to Atria Books/Simon & Schuster for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
I first discovered Elvis Duran and the Morning Show when I moved to the Philly area 8 years ago. They’ve always made my 45min commute so much more tolerable and even sometimes fun! Thus, when I found out Elvis was writing a book, I knew I had to get my hands on it. If you’re looking for a book that’s deeply profound and thought provoking, you’re probably looking in the wrong place (I mean come on have you even been paying attention?). However, if you want to learn a little bit more about the man behind the morning show and his climb to radio fame then definitely pick this up. I loved Elvis’s stories and ultimately how he got to where he is today. His writing was warm and friendly and kind of feels like an intimate conversation you’re having with him. I thoroughly enjoyed each and every chapter and I think fellow lovers of the Morning Show will as well.
As someone who relied on Elvis and gang to get them through years of morning commutes, this was an enjoyable memoir to see how he got to where he is now in the industry. I didn't think it was super revealing or shocking, but still enjoyable if you are an Elvis fan. Hello Lady!!
“It is never a bad idea to live your truth—to be who you are and be proud of who you are.” -Elvis Duran
I’ve started my mornings for the past 25 years listening to Elvis. I’m talking back when it was still Elliott + Elvis and the Z Morning Zoo (I’m old, I know lol!) After frequent teases of “that’s going in the book” I was excited when he announced the release date for said book. Despite Elvis’ honesty when discussing his life and radio beginnings on air, reading about it made me feel a little more connected to him. Each chapter was a walk down memory lane with a friend because I got to re-live some of my favorite moments from the show and no so fun moments (the chapter on 9/11 was hard to read). My favorite chapter was Dr. Oz Saves My Life; never have I ever related to someone’s struggle with their weight and appearance as I did with Elvis. All through the chapter I kept nodding my head and saying, “Yes! That’s exactly it!” My only disappointment was he left out his feud with Tony Danza lol. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis’ or you’ve never heard of him before, this would still be a great read. When you’re done, you’ll see why he’s so beloved amongst listeners and his friends and you’ll finish the book with a ton of highlights thanks to his insight and advice.
“You just have to trust your instincts and own the results. Whatever you do in life, you have to decide that you’re going to SWIM. No SINKING is allowed. There’s no such thing as sinking. If something you do fails, you’re still swimming. You’re learning lessons you needed to learn. When you swim to the finish line, remember that you succeeded because you took a chance on yourself.” -Elvis Duran
* I received an advanced copy via NetGalley, which in no way impacts my review.
I’ve got the Audible pre ordered and will meet Elvis Friday and pick up my signed copy. So I definitely would’ve bought it anyway.
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was very excited when I found out that Elvis Duran was writing a book. I didn’t know what to expect opening it up but I am leaving this journey not just with a better understanding of how radio works, but how powerful that passion inside can be. From an early age, Elvis had a connection to radio and over time, worked extremely hard to achieve his dream. I personally felt less alone when it came to the chapter about health and weight, which I had a hard time reading through the tears in my eyes. You never know when you read a memoir if you will be able to truly feel a connection to the author, but in this case, Elvis succeeded. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more. I feel that readers who are not familiar with the author will still get something out of this memoir. If anything, it is a real glimpse into the life of a hard working and dedicated person, who wants to bring people together in love and kindness.
About a year ago, I was driving to work listening to “Elvis Duran and the Morning Show,” America’s most-listened-to Top 40 morning show and one of the 10 most-listened-to programs in all of radio, heard live by nearly ten million people every day. I was working for a literary PR firm, and Elvis had just said he was writing a book. I squealed to co-workers that I had to review it!
Well, folks… Elvis Duran’s Where Do I Begin?: Stories (I Sort of Remember) from a Life Lived Out Loud (Atria Books) is here. Within, he shares his craziest stories and hardest-learned lessons — from his early party days in Texas to talking about his sexuality on-air to getting his own star of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and many other life-defining moments.
He writes candidly about his quest to make it to the top of the charts and reveals never-before-told stories from his personal life, behind-the-scenes looks at the industry, and inspiring advice. His wit, boldness and charm come across in the book much like they do for me on the radio. Yet Where Do I Begin? unveils a portrait of Elvis that fans might have difficulty imagining. His kindness and determination shine as he retells the beginnings of his remarkable career.
This autobiography about my favorite radio talk show host Elvis Duran earns 5 stars. Listening to the audiobook and hearing his voice tell his story made it that much better. I have listened to Elvis Duran and the morning show for years. I flipped to this station for every morning commute. The show’s laughs, phone-taps, and stories provide endless entertainment in the morning. Elvis Duran is the least famous, famous person. For someone who makes millions each year he is extremely relatable. The advice he weaves throughout his personal story had me thinking about my own life. I still have yet to find Elvis Duran on my local RI stations so if anyone knows what number it is, please let me know.
I am so happy my friend wanted to see Elvis on his book tour. I enjoyed seeing him and started listening to his radio show on the mornings I work. It makes the commute pleasant. I have had his book for awhile but I have been patiently waiting for the audiobook since Elvis is the narrator. I am glad I did because of course he does a great job narrating.
I’m a fan of Elvis Duran and his morning radio show so this book was interesting to me. If you don’t know who Elvis is, then this book may not be for you. I like his sense of humor, his authenticity, and his desire to connect with people regardless of differences in beliefs.
This book was phenomenal. The stories could be funny and ridiculous at one point and then sorrow and deep in another. It gives many lessons on life and now I kind of want to become a radio DJ.
I grew up listening to Elvis so I was looking forward to his memoir. Hmm. I am underwhelmed. This memoir is the writer’s story to tell in the way they want to tell it and share as much as they prefer to share publicly. But I felt there is more depth to some of the stories than what’s shared in this memoir. It felt like Elvis is just dipping his toes (so to speak) when writing about his family, sexuality, experiences with drugs, and his struggles with weight. Overall a good read if you want to know more about about Elvis’ career as a radio host. I hope he writes a another memoir that digs in deeper.
I saw Elvis speak at a book signing and found him to be very interesting and was excited to read his book. However, his book does not dig deep into his life and it felt like he didn’t really want you to get to know the “true” Elvis. It almost feels like he is telling you about all the other people in his life, but not much about him. He definitely is much better in person vs. in writing.
Loved this! I’ve been listening to Elvis on Z100 since I was a kid! Love him, love his show and the whole cast of characters he’s got with him! His book was so thoughtful, it dealt with many issues: gay rights, women’s rights, our ever changing world and how we view issues. The chapter on 9/11 literally made me cry my eyes out. The best way to describe this book: a love letter to the radio industry, NYC, and most importantly to himself. He was a shy gay man who came up in radio starting in the 70s/80s, and it really took him so long to love and appreciate himself.... and that’s a struggle that is just so quintessentially human. He’s not just a celebrity, he’s a full fledged human being with feelings, struggles and opinions like the rest of us. He left it all out on the table here, and I applaud him for it. It was so awesome listening to this on my commute, I don’t always go to work in time for his show, so I had my own little Elvis time for the past week.
5 ⭐️ I didn’t have many high expectations for this book. I don’t say that to be mean. I listen to Elvis Duran every morning while I get ready for work, and have been since high school (over 10 years!). I love the show and find Elvis to be so relatable and funny. I thought, “how is his book going to be any different than who he is on the radio every day? What will be new?”. Let me tell you something: it was amazing. I listened to it on Audible (highly suggest as he narrates it!), and I finished it in a day! I laughed, cried a little, and felt a sense of purpose for my own life. Elvis really seems like a genuine person, to his fans and also to himself. I realized while listening that I don’t love myself as much as I should, and I will be working on that. Am I doing what I love? Elvis shares so many lessons throughout the story that are very relatable. I think I’m going to listen to this again! It was that good!
Another great nonfiction read for me! I love Elvis Duran and The Morning Show and I’ve been a listener for as long as I can remember. Now as I commute to work every day I couldn’t imagine my mornings without this crew to make me smile and laugh from point A to B. I loved learning about Elvis’ journey to success and his early life. Most listeners would probably agree with me that the morning show feels almost like family, as if you truly know them, and after reading this book I feel it even more! Highly recommend to any Z100 fan!
I’ve listened to Elvis for longer than he has actually been on the radio. I don’t know how that is possible but he’s the only one I ever remember listening to. The only way I could read this book was to listen to it! Thank god Elvis was the narrator. His voice is like going home. Thanks for sharing, Elvis! It will be even more fun to listen in the morning now that I can picture you all around that phallic table! Congrats on the book and on your happiness.
I love Elvis’ voice in real life and even more while reading this book. Learning about his beginnings as a little kiddo building his own radios in his closet to his road to his success was such a fun journey to go on. I absolutely loved all the chapters where he spoke about himself and his life. The chapters about the celebrities got a bit long, and though some of the stories were great, a lot I just didn’t care about and found myself skipping pages to get back to his own stories. Anyone who listens to the morning show will love this book.
If you love Elvis on air as much as I do, this book is a MUST READ. You get to read about the same old light hearted Elvis that makes you laugh but also a more personal side of him that he hasn’t shown on air before. Each chapter shows you a different side of him. You get to learn about his childhood, how to got into radio, fails and successes, family, friends, love life, celebrity life, health, passion for radio and so much more! This book is filled with funny stories that literally made me LOL. After finishing the book I felt inspired to live life more like Elvis by learning to laugh at life more, not take life too seriously, follow passions and most of all have fun!
This book was everything I ever expected it to be and more! I have been a loyal listener of Elvis's since he joined Z100 and this book was like getting to know a good friend even better. It was even more enjoyable because I chose to listen to it so it was more like having a one way conversation with your close friend. Loved loved loved!
I have always loved Elvis and the morning show. Always kept me laughing. I was so excited to read his book i preordered it 6months before it came out. I am so happy i did. Congratulations on all your accomplishments Elvis. And thank you for writing this. You are an inspiration and definitely a leader in my book.
The beginning was a little juvenile, talking about all the times he got drunk and high at parties as he tried to find his footing in radio. Didn’t really care about any of that. But found a good stride and was really entertaining for the last half. Couple chapters recalling specific interviews with celebs were great.
I have been listening to Elvis for about seven years now. When I heard he had a book coming out I had to have it. It was released today. The book is set to be delivered today but I couldn’t wait I bought the Audible and devoured it in one day. Listening to this feels like listening to his show for about six hours. Elvis is a great example of working hard but still able to enjoy life to The fullest. While their is no spoiled tea(which I don’t expect knowing how much of a standup guy he is) it was truly a great read. If you like Elvis you will LOVE the book!!!
The magnetism Elvis brings to his morning show shone through in every chapter of this book. I couldn’t put it down. I feel honored that he allowed us this glimpse into his personal life and the moments that made him the captivating person he is today. Also, not gonna lie, his chapter about the start of his relationship with his husband, Alex, made me cry. It made my heart so happy. Thank you for letting us in, Elvis!
I laughed, I cried and now I feel like I’m more connected to him and his radio family. Such an inspiring and awesome read. I loved listening to him tell his story on how he got where he is today. Love ya even more Elvis!
*Disclaimer: I’m cohosting an event with Elvis Duran on his book tour. It will be recorded for the Professional Book Nerds podcast.*
Fans of Elvis Duran will recognize a fair amount of the story but the major take away from this memoir is what, I feel, has made Elvis a go to person for celebrities in the music business. He’s wildly passionate about radio but he has that same passion for the conversations he has with artists.
It’s clear that he views these people not as something to be discussed and scandalized but as human beings. Being a celebrity comes with fame and fortune but it also comes with endless poking and prodding. Artists are treated like products to be used up and then traded in for the next. Elvis shows compassion in his interviews and this book only confirms that this is not an act.
Yes, you’ll read about wild, tequila-soaked nights but you’ll also discover how excited Elvis is to create shared moments with these people as human beings. If you love Elvis Duran you’ll love this book but even if you’ve never listened to a second of his show, you’ll get a deep appreciation for musicians, the history of radio, and the fact that you can be a compassionate person and still make it big.
As a die hard chick lit reader this is the first time I’ve read a biography in a decade but I had to since Elvis is my best friend that I spend every day with having one sided conversations with (most people just think I’m talking to myself) it was nice to hear about the life before I was a listener. We need more people like him & his gang - the world would be a better place. He makes me wish I had chosen radio as a career.