Living Proof

by Hank Williams Jr.

The son of the legendary Hank Williams recounts his father's early death, his own early career and success following in his father's footsteps, the toll of pressure, drink, and drugs, and his amazing survival and comeback

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Music

Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hank Jr. didn't completely open up, but almost. It's a miracle he is alive, and his story is kinda sad. I hope he is happy in life.

[Dale Stonehouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading between the lines, Hank Jr. had a near-death or out-of-body experience when he was injured so badly falling down the mountain.

[Bosco Farr · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a very good book. I am a fan of Hank Jr. This book is not his best work.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember watching this movie years ago and it is hard to believe it has been that long ago and his children and grandchildren are making music now.

[Emma]

Normally I do not read autobiographies, but when I found one about my favorite country musician, I knew I had to read it. The book, Living Proof, by Hank Williams Jr. is the best autobiography I have ever read. Williams Jr. goes through his life and talks about the highs and lows of his dad’s career as well. Both men dealt with alcohol and drugs issues, but hearing how it impacted them personally really let readers in on their lives. I would recommend this autobiography to anyone who enjoys Williams Jr.’s music, but also anyone who wants to read a heartfelt success story. Williams Jr.’s life was full of challenges, like his dad passing away when he was only three years old; However, William’s Jr. found success and his and his father’s legacies will forever be present in the world of country music. I really appreciated getting to know Hank Williams Jr. intimately and from his own perspective, which really made the readers feel like they know Williams Jr. Overall, this book strengthened the respect I hold for the musicians and I hope more people will read this too.

[AJ Schlenker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than expected

[Appleoh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a little unusual as far as autobiographies in that the story is unfinished (Bocephus wrote it around age 30, so it’s due for an update of the next 40 years!) and the narrative seems to be centered around his near-death accident in 1975, which he describes as the turning point in his troubled life. There are a lot of interesting anecdotes and side stories along the way, as he takes us from his earliest memories through the late 70s when the book was written, and even provides background on his father Hank Williams senior. There is also some philosophizing and thoughts on various subjects like people, the music industry, etc. I found it pretty interesting for the most part, and I wasn’t even a Hank Jr. fan (but am becoming one!)

This book is long out of print and I was lucky enough to find it used for $20. I think someone should bug Hank Jr. to update it and put it back in print!

[Dara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Finished it in four hours.

[Ilena Holder · Rating 1 out of 5]

Read (if you will) the life of Hank Williams, Jr. Yes, Bocehphus to many. I am not a fan of his, yet I read this book to find details of his father's life.