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One Step Closer: From Xero to #1: Becoming Linkin Park
The dramatic story of the unlikely partnership that led to Hybrid Theory , the biggest-selling debut album of the 21st Century.
From the unique perspective of the executive who discovered them, One Step Closer reveals how Brad Delson’s college internship was a catalyst for a group of young musical visionaries, led by Mike Shinoda, which gave rise to a band that survived countless rejections, exceeded everyone’s expectations but their own, and became the voice of a generation.
This against-all-odds story chronicles the early days of Linkin Park, from their first demo and Whisky a Go Go performance as Xero, through their tireless efforts to perfect their iconic sound and the discovery of Chester Bennington. Jeff Blue was there when no one else believed—first as their publisher, then as their A&R guy. This is his memoir of that incredible journey.
Riveting and inspiring, One Step Closer is a testament to perseverance, as well as a detailed behind-the-scenes account of the building of a dream and what it takes to make it.
"Resilience, drive and the ability to overcome adversity are the qualities that create stars. Adversity may make or break you. But adversity primarily reveals you. In the case of Blue and Linkin Park, it revealed greatness." — Forbes
From the unique perspective of the executive who discovered them, One Step Closer reveals how Brad Delson’s college internship was a catalyst for a group of young musical visionaries, led by Mike Shinoda, which gave rise to a band that survived countless rejections, exceeded everyone’s expectations but their own, and became the voice of a generation.
This against-all-odds story chronicles the early days of Linkin Park, from their first demo and Whisky a Go Go performance as Xero, through their tireless efforts to perfect their iconic sound and the discovery of Chester Bennington. Jeff Blue was there when no one else believed—first as their publisher, then as their A&R guy. This is his memoir of that incredible journey.
Riveting and inspiring, One Step Closer is a testament to perseverance, as well as a detailed behind-the-scenes account of the building of a dream and what it takes to make it.
"Resilience, drive and the ability to overcome adversity are the qualities that create stars. Adversity may make or break you. But adversity primarily reveals you. In the case of Blue and Linkin Park, it revealed greatness." — Forbes
304 pages, Hardcover
Published December 8, 2020
16 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 16, 2023
This is a subject so dear to my heart, it's impossible to be objective but I genuinely loved the way this book was written. Instead of a dry, factual narrative Jeff Blue wrote a story, complete with dialogue and description that brought everyone mentioned to life as true characters in an incredible story. I had absolutely no idea how much LP struggled in the beginning. This book has opened my eyes to some of the inner workings of the music industry (although of course this book details those inner workings some 20 years ago now so I'm sure some things have changed) and more importantly, the initial inner workings of the band as they evolved into the Linkin Park I ultimately came to love so profoundly.
I highly recommend this to fans of the band and to anyone interested in catching a glimpse of the music industry. I was afraid this book might dwell on salacious details of the band's personal lives, but Blue writes with compassion and integrity, mentioning well-documented tribulations without saying more than any of the actual band members have ever disclosed themselves in interviews. I have a new found respect for both Jeff Blue and all the members of Linkin Park.
This is not the full story of Linkin Park, merely a snapshot of how this band got started - and almost didn't - before going on to carve an indelible mark in the world of rock music.
I highly recommend this to fans of the band and to anyone interested in catching a glimpse of the music industry. I was afraid this book might dwell on salacious details of the band's personal lives, but Blue writes with compassion and integrity, mentioning well-documented tribulations without saying more than any of the actual band members have ever disclosed themselves in interviews. I have a new found respect for both Jeff Blue and all the members of Linkin Park.
This is not the full story of Linkin Park, merely a snapshot of how this band got started - and almost didn't - before going on to carve an indelible mark in the world of rock music.
May 2, 2023
Пристрастна съм, доста при това.
Защото имах нужда от подобна книга.
Знам колко нелепо звучи дори идеята да изпиташ болка от загуба на непознат човек, на някой, когото никога не си срещал, но истината е, че точно така се почувствах, когато научих за смъртта на Честър. Още си спомням, че първото нещо, което видях във фийда си в онзи ден беше пост от Дейвид Драйман, в който разказваше за запознанството си с Бенингтън, за концертите им заедно и накрая завършваше с rest in peace. Никога преди не бях изпитвала толкова силен шок.
Linkin Park се появиха в живота ми, а и на музикалната сцена, по времето, когато навлизах в пубертета и емоциите, с които бяха наситени песните им идеално паснаха на настроенията ми в онзи момент. Може да се каже, че пораснах с текстовете на Шинода и гласа на Честър, затова краят на групата е нещо, с което и до ден днешен не успявам да се примиря.
Книгата на Джеф Блу показва не само историята на групата, но и лицето на музикалния бизнес. От второто никога не съм се интересувала особено и авторът успя да обогати общата ми култура в това направление без да ме отегчава. Книгата си е написана художествено, с диалози и всички други екстри, което приемам като плюс, защото дава един хубав вътрешен поглед към групата и позволява да видим момчета не само като звезди, но и като хора.
Много ми се иска някой ден да прочета историята и през погледа на Майк Шинода или някой друг от бандата.
Защото имах нужда от подобна книга.
Знам колко нелепо звучи дори идеята да изпиташ болка от загуба на непознат човек, на някой, когото никога не си срещал, но истината е, че точно така се почувствах, когато научих за смъртта на Честър. Още си спомням, че първото нещо, което видях във фийда си в онзи ден беше пост от Дейвид Драйман, в който разказваше за запознанството си с Бенингтън, за концертите им заедно и накрая завършваше с rest in peace. Никога преди не бях изпитвала толкова силен шок.
Linkin Park се появиха в живота ми, а и на музикалната сцена, по времето, когато навлизах в пубертета и емоциите, с които бяха наситени песните им идеално паснаха на настроенията ми в онзи момент. Може да се каже, че пораснах с текстовете на Шинода и гласа на Честър, затова краят на групата е нещо, с което и до ден днешен не успявам да се примиря.
Книгата на Джеф Блу показва не само историята на групата, но и лицето на музикалния бизнес. От второто никога не съм се интересувала особено и авторът успя да обогати общата ми култура в това направление без да ме отегчава. Книгата си е написана художествено, с диалози и всички други екстри, което приемам като плюс, защото дава един хубав вътрешен поглед към групата и позволява да видим момчета не само като звезди, но и като хора.
Много ми се иска някой ден да прочета историята и през погледа на Майк Шинода или някой друг от бандата.
January 11, 2021
Being a musician, you face quite a few challenges, hurdles and every other setback that you could possibly think about while trying to chase a dream. Jeff really puts it out there with the up's & downs and does not sugarcoat one bit. This is a book for anyone with interests in what it's like being a band who's literally been "One Step Closer" since they started. What many see is the fame & glitz and not the down side of the spectrum, the moments that crush you down and question why you keep chasing something that seems so far fetched. It's all about the passion & love for what you believe in. So I highly suggest giving this a read and taking notes, cause there's plenty of good advice along the ride.
November 11, 2023
Sugarcoated as hell, filled with clichés and at times - cringe-inducing. This isn't a book about Linkin Park, it's about some dude named Jeff who's trying to cash in on nostalgia and Chester's death. He's a name-dropper who presents himself as the band's brave leader and protector when in reality all bandmembers have distanced themselves from him and he hasn't seen success in over 20 years.
July 9, 2021
This is a really cool story about LP going from nobody to the band that impacted everyone. This book also taught me more about major label music than my minor is Music Industry did. In the end (no pun intended) it’s strange to feel like I don’t feel sorry or even like Jeff! (the books author, storyteller, and LPs A&R guy.) He definitely is just a one dimensional, privileged music industry suit. He’s both of villain and hero of the band.
April 7, 2021
Review from by friend G$ though I plan to read it myself this week:
A book of inspiration, for all ages and walks of life about individual and group perseverance, loyalty, with the lessons of maintaining what is important in life above all else; ones sanity, relationships, and being true to oneself. Jeff is authentically honest and vulnerable in sharing his journey working with Linkin Park and dealing with his own issues along the way to their incredible success. Once you start this book it is hard to put down, as it gives an inside look at the "birth" of Linkin Park, the vulnerability in the music industry, and what it takes to succeed.
A book of inspiration, for all ages and walks of life about individual and group perseverance, loyalty, with the lessons of maintaining what is important in life above all else; ones sanity, relationships, and being true to oneself. Jeff is authentically honest and vulnerable in sharing his journey working with Linkin Park and dealing with his own issues along the way to their incredible success. Once you start this book it is hard to put down, as it gives an inside look at the "birth" of Linkin Park, the vulnerability in the music industry, and what it takes to succeed.
December 31, 2020
Great read! I thoroughly enjoyed "One Step Closer," an emotionally charged page-turner about Jeff Blue, a young music executive pursuing his passion for music and developing a revolutionary band in the process. To me, it was a fascinating insider’s view into the music business, highlighting setbacks, sacrifices and successes on the road to the making of an iconic band. I found it to be an incredibly revealing and inspiring story of perseverance, and of overcoming adversity in the undying pursuit of one’s passion, in this case, the music. Highly recommend!
May 8, 2023
Не че съм отдавна в този сайт, но за първи път ще си позволя да пиша ревю. Просто никога не ме е интересувало достатъчно, за да седна и да изпиша какво толкова не ми е харесало в някоя книга. Сега е различно. Изключително благодарна съм на целия екип, който е реализирал издаването на тази книга в България, независимо от това какво мисля за написаното от автора. В книжарницата толкова се зарадвах, когато я намерих, че една от дамите ме попита дали не искам направо да си взема втора. Нямах търпение да седна и да прочета за малките детайли, които са липсвали из интернет пространството без да се замисля, че всъщност това не е книга за нас, феновете, за Линкин Парк. Тя е обръщение към самата група, някакво оправдание, което толкова години не е било изказано и е било потиснато. Вярвам, че няма как да знаем със сигурност нищо. Истината е някъде по средата, може би. Не се бях ровила в историята на групата с автора, а и след прочита на книгата не открих много. И все пак съм разочарована от онова, на което се натъкнах. Исках да дам повече звезди, наистина. Няма смисъл да казвам какво значи Линкин парк за мен, защото всеки фен чувства определена връзка с музиката им и знае какво е и без думи.
Авторът препуска стремглаво през събития, които са се случили толкова отдавна, че се питам дали някои спомени не са се изменили според това как му се е искало да бъде. Очаквах повече разказ, повече дълбочина на целия път, през който групата е преминала. Ужасните събития и чувства бяха описани сухо, не можах да усетя нито неговата болка от премеждията му (не заради която съм подхванала книгата за Линкин Парк), нито на групата, описаното бе като детска приказка. Всеки се съгласяваше с него, всеки бе честен и казваше открито какво мисли. Само че нещата въобще не стоят по този начин. Исках някаква истина, някакъв разказ, който да ме потопи в миналото и да преживея онези години през очите на автора, но не получих нищо подобно. Всичко беше претупано. Особено тежките моменти, които са споменати сякаш се случва нещо ежедневно.
И все пак не съжалявам, че прочетох тази книга. Дори да знаех какво ме чака, отново щях да си я купя и да я изчета. Не беше това, което очаквах, но въпреки всичко се радвах, че ще узная още нещо за любимата си група, независимо дали написаното е вярно или не, понеже е чиста субективна гледна точка.
Авторът препуска стремглаво през събития, които са се случили толкова отдавна, че се питам дали някои спомени не са се изменили според това как му се е искало да бъде. Очаквах повече разказ, повече дълбочина на целия път, през който групата е преминала. Ужасните събития и чувства бяха описани сухо, не можах да усетя нито неговата болка от премеждията му (не заради която съм подхванала книгата за Линкин Парк), нито на групата, описаното бе като детска приказка. Всеки се съгласяваше с него, всеки бе честен и казваше открито какво мисли. Само че нещата въобще не стоят по този начин. Исках някаква истина, някакъв разказ, който да ме потопи в миналото и да преживея онези години през очите на автора, но не получих нищо подобно. Всичко беше претупано. Особено тежките моменти, които са споменати сякаш се случва нещо ежедневно.
И все пак не съжалявам, че прочетох тази книга. Дори да знаех какво ме чака, отново щях да си я купя и да я изчета. Не беше това, което очаквах, но въпреки всичко се радвах, че ще узная още нещо за любимата си група, независимо дали написаното е вярно или не, понеже е чиста субективна гледна точка.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2023
Първо нека отбележа, че не съм истински фен на Linkin Park, не и в същината на думата. Слушала съм ги, когато станаха популярни (тогава бях на около 25), имам няколко любими песни наред с още много други песни от други групи - по-скоро от класическия рок и метъл - а когато нещо ми е любимо, то си остава такова, независимо от възрастта ми и как аз се променям през годините. Да, считам тези песни като част от моята емоционална история, силно бях впечатлена и от текстовете.
Авторът успява да предаде неподправената силна страст, с която е живял за групата и е тласкал развитието на момчетата. Възхитена съм от устойчивостта им пред толкова много откази. Аз, например, не успях да устоя на толкова. Но нямах и такава ценна подкрепа. Сега, след прочита, имам малко кълбо с вдъхновение. И ще се постарая да го използвам.
Като минус мога да посоча деловото описване на събитията, без да се навлезе с дълбочина в драмата, но е разбираемо, все пак реални хора присъстват в книгата и най-вероятно ще я прочетат. "Засмя се", "оценява�� това" се опитват да разведрят обстановката, но така репликите звучат често като въведение в презентация.
Изключително ми беше интересно да надникна в Развлекателната индустрия, в частност Музикалната, особено в LA, където машината е смазана до съвършенство. Бях с групата по целия им път, напомних си, че кариерата и семейството са области, в които не можеш да имаш пълно щастие едновременно. Минах целия богат диапазон от емоции, разбрах и депресията на Честър.
С голямо уважение към автора на тази книга, към българския екип, осъществил изданието и разбира се, към Linkin Park. Благодаря.
Авторът успява да предаде неподправената силна страст, с която е живял за групата и е тласкал развитието на момчетата. Възхитена съм от устойчивостта им пред толкова много откази. Аз, например, не успях да устоя на толкова. Но нямах и такава ценна подкрепа. Сега, след прочита, имам малко кълбо с вдъхновение. И ще се постарая да го използвам.
Като минус мога да посоча деловото описване на събитията, без да се навлезе с дълбочина в драмата, но е разбираемо, все пак реални хора присъстват в книгата и най-вероятно ще я прочетат. "Засмя се", "оценява�� това" се опитват да разведрят обстановката, но така репликите звучат често като въведение в презентация.
Изключително ми беше интересно да надникна в Развлекателната индустрия, в частност Музикалната, особено в LA, където машината е смазана до съвършенство. Бях с групата по целия им път, напомних си, че кариерата и семейството са области, в които не можеш да имаш пълно щастие едновременно. Минах целия богат диапазон от емоции, разбрах и депресията на Честър.
С голямо уважение към автора на тази книга, към българския екип, осъществил изданието и разбира се, към Linkin Park. Благодаря.
November 2, 2021
This book was such an easy and fun read filled with dialogue and detailed memories. Jeff did a great job allowing us into his world and giving us a glimpse of the music industry from his side of fame. I finished the book wanting more, and being so inspired by the characters I fell in love with throughout.
Whether or not you are a Linkin Park fan, this book is a clear and direct testament to perseverance, friendship, love, hard work, and passion. Whatever industry you're in, and especially if you're passionate about the entertainment industry. This story depicts countless rejections in an industry most don't get a glimpse of. The reader gains an appreciation and understanding of everyone working behind the scenes, giving it their all, for all of their dreams to come true. Jeff will make you feel like you're right there with him and the band through the humble beginnings.
This book details everything it took for Linkin Park to make it. The book paints such a clear image of the characters since Jeff was so close with them. I was inspired to go back and really dig into EVERY word in their songs. This book really shed a lot of light into feelings behind the lyrics and into the souls behind all the fame.
This book travelled with me to parks, on planes, and everywhere I had some free time to read until I was done. You won't want to put it down, and you may just want to pick it back up a second time!
Truly such an inspiring story. Get yourself a copy!
Whether or not you are a Linkin Park fan, this book is a clear and direct testament to perseverance, friendship, love, hard work, and passion. Whatever industry you're in, and especially if you're passionate about the entertainment industry. This story depicts countless rejections in an industry most don't get a glimpse of. The reader gains an appreciation and understanding of everyone working behind the scenes, giving it their all, for all of their dreams to come true. Jeff will make you feel like you're right there with him and the band through the humble beginnings.
This book details everything it took for Linkin Park to make it. The book paints such a clear image of the characters since Jeff was so close with them. I was inspired to go back and really dig into EVERY word in their songs. This book really shed a lot of light into feelings behind the lyrics and into the souls behind all the fame.
This book travelled with me to parks, on planes, and everywhere I had some free time to read until I was done. You won't want to put it down, and you may just want to pick it back up a second time!
Truly such an inspiring story. Get yourself a copy!
December 20, 2020
Huge, huge Linkin Park fan. I’ve followed them since I can remember and was excited to read this mini biop with a bit of “behind the curtain” look into music angle.
I’m one of those people who question pretty much everything. Who was the first person to jump out of a plane and said it was fun? Why is red called red? When did we start not trusting what our parents say is truth? So if you want a little peek into their history then you must read this.
The music industry is very tricky to navigate through successfully. You can become the next big thing at 16 after one song or never be known outside of your circle after 30 plus years of performing. But, like the movie industry, we all still believe we can be that lucky one. This book does not sell it short. I got see the trials and tribulations from Jeff’s eyes. Interesting and dramatic. The wins he claimed and the loses he had to learn. I think much of the band’s success came from how certain Jeff believed they were one of few “lucky ones.” The book lends the feeling of you being in the outer inner circle. A definite read. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
I’m one of those people who question pretty much everything. Who was the first person to jump out of a plane and said it was fun? Why is red called red? When did we start not trusting what our parents say is truth? So if you want a little peek into their history then you must read this.
The music industry is very tricky to navigate through successfully. You can become the next big thing at 16 after one song or never be known outside of your circle after 30 plus years of performing. But, like the movie industry, we all still believe we can be that lucky one. This book does not sell it short. I got see the trials and tribulations from Jeff’s eyes. Interesting and dramatic. The wins he claimed and the loses he had to learn. I think much of the band’s success came from how certain Jeff believed they were one of few “lucky ones.” The book lends the feeling of you being in the outer inner circle. A definite read. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 13, 2024
Не се заблуждавайте! Това не е книга за Линкин Парк, тъй като на практика завършва там, където историята на групата започва. Това е книга за Джеф Блу и за това колко е велик, прозорлив и готин човек. Блу не е забравил да спомене всичките си познати изпълнители, да оближе задниците на големите в индустрията и да премълчи имената на тези, които са имали недалновидността да не повярват в таланта на групата. Малко повече ми дойде мелодрамата (сцената с умрялата муха, която безизразно се взира в очите на Джеф Блу е връхТа!), диалозите ми се сториха неправдоподобни, а цялостното впечатление, което придобих за автора на книгата е, че е доста хлъзгав тип. Което може би е задължително, за да бъдеш успешен в неговата професия. Тази история със сигурност има и друга гледна точка и се надявам някога момчетата от Линкин Парк да решат да я споделят!
Въпреки това не бих определила книгата като безинтересна - главите са къси, чете се бързо и дава възможност да се погледне музикалната индустрия отвътре. За съжаление, това което за едни е любов и вдъхновение, за други е сух бизнес и шумолене на банкноти.
Въпреки това не бих определила книгата като безинтересна - главите са къси, чете се бързо и дава възможност да се погледне музикалната индустрия отвътре. За съжаление, това което за едни е любов и вдъхновение, за други е сух бизнес и шумолене на банкноти.
January 13, 2021
Just purely inspirational. How many times have I said I want to do something, accomplish something, and begin the process, only to find myself at a crossroads where I give up...but then those times where I forge ahead and push through the roadblocks only to be rejected. But not this type of rejection! 44 times! And these guys didn't stop?!...this is the story of a needle in a haystack one in a million chance brought together by a small group of believers in one common vision-music, wrought with rejection after mind bending rejection, only to almost reach their dreams, and to be thrown to the wolves again...but to succeed, and change the world! This isn't a movie. This is true. Trust me I did research it! I read the book in less than 48 hours and couldn't put the damn thing down. I barely knew about the band but I just ordered their box set. I'm only 25 and the band came out when I was five years old, so this is all knew, but the music, and the story lives on. WOW
December 4, 2024
I am happy I came across this book. The audio format, narrated by the author himself makes the story even more personal and emotional.
I'm sure every fan will enjoy this piece, as it covers history from LP's inception as Xero and until the success of Hybrid theory album becoming platinum, with additional bits covering the rest of the history briefly from Jeff's perspective.
I'm also glad that 95% of the demos mentioned are either released officially or can be found on YouTube - that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the evolution of the band's sound and the incredible effort everyone put in the process.
I'm sure every fan will enjoy this piece, as it covers history from LP's inception as Xero and until the success of Hybrid theory album becoming platinum, with additional bits covering the rest of the history briefly from Jeff's perspective.
I'm also glad that 95% of the demos mentioned are either released officially or can be found on YouTube - that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the evolution of the band's sound and the incredible effort everyone put in the process.
December 4, 2024
This is for any Linkin Park fan, this book will get you excited and find a new appreciation for their music and the tough journey they had to endure. Not only that is it’s touching full emotion from someone the perspective of someone who was in the trenches with the band from the early days. It’s also a blast especially when other artists from the time show up and are intertwined made me giddy with joy.
It’s been a long time since I was so enthralled in a book. This true story told like a story and not like a textbook gives it a really personal feel that is captivating. This is an amazing read for anyone who is a fan of linkin park or rock music in general 10/10
It’s been a long time since I was so enthralled in a book. This true story told like a story and not like a textbook gives it a really personal feel that is captivating. This is an amazing read for anyone who is a fan of linkin park or rock music in general 10/10
February 12, 2023
This book is a great read for all music lovers especially Linkin Park fans. Blue helped Linkin Park, Korn and Limp Bizkit sign publishing deals among others. This book goes through Linkin Park’s journey from the very beginning until finally making it despite being turned down time after time and hitting roadblock after roadblock, Linkin Park built themselves up creating a phenomenal album, Hybrid Theory. It’s incredible reading about the forming years and learning more about the band members. Hybrid Theory platinum and didn’t even have a curse word on it - a rarity for a rock album!
January 19, 2024
An extremely well written book. The emotional and riveting story of how millions of fans (like me) were introduced to Linkin Park. This story told by the guy who got them their first break is a very balanced memoir. Even though he wasn't associated with the band after their first album, he has not let that bitterness come in the way of his story.
Very succinct yet impactful, this book made my love for Linkin Park and Chester even stronger.
This one is a must-read for all the Linkin Park fans out there!
Very succinct yet impactful, this book made my love for Linkin Park and Chester even stronger.
This one is a must-read for all the Linkin Park fans out there!
May 28, 2024
I very seldom write a review, however this book I could NOT put down. I have , from the very beginning, been a huge LP fan. Reading the story of Jeff and LP had my emotions all over the place, especially knowing the outcome.
Linkin Park has saved me on many occasions and I have them to thank for making things make sense even for a moment.
Jeff did a fantastic job of putting so much thought into this book. It really shows how much he loves LP and the lengths he would go for them.
His perseverance and determination is remarkable.
Well done Jeff!
Linkin Park has saved me on many occasions and I have them to thank for making things make sense even for a moment.
Jeff did a fantastic job of putting so much thought into this book. It really shows how much he loves LP and the lengths he would go for them.
His perseverance and determination is remarkable.
Well done Jeff!
May 27, 2023
This book honestly so impactful and inspiring. The writing should be developed into a movie, especially since Chester has passed May he Rest In Peace.I’m a vocalist who grew up listening to bands like Korn and linkin park. To read his impact and contribution created a polarization mind for me where I can truly go towards my destiny with confidence and a resolve solidified. I recommend this book for every artist!
May 27, 2023
Super authentic love the passion this book definitely changed my life as an artist I think it’s important to follow your dreams despite what anyone else may say, just keep creating and you’ll get there. I definitely Recommend this book to anyone who’s looking to further their career in the music industry. This book inspired me to continue my progression in the music industry because you never know who you might run into that will change your life like Jeff Blue did for Linkin Park!
August 22, 2023
This is a must read for all Linkin Park fans!
I already knew a lot of this from various interviews with Linkin Park but I have to say it’s nice to see an account of the early days from Jeff Blue.
Even though I adore Linkin Park and have done for years, I felt bad for Jeff whilst reading this. I knew Linkin Park had gone through a lot of rejection and had a hard time with the record label but I never knew how bad Jeff had it during this time.
I already knew a lot of this from various interviews with Linkin Park but I have to say it’s nice to see an account of the early days from Jeff Blue.
Even though I adore Linkin Park and have done for years, I felt bad for Jeff whilst reading this. I knew Linkin Park had gone through a lot of rejection and had a hard time with the record label but I never knew how bad Jeff had it during this time.
April 5, 2024
Learning a bit more about the music industry was something I didn’t expect from this book. The label always seems like the bad guy, but this book gives us a fresh perspective. Without his ambition and belief in the band, we wouldn’t have the best selling debut album of the century. It did sting to see them part ways in the end. I didn’t think my love for Hybrid Theory (the best selling debut album of the century) could grow, but it’ll be on repeat for the weekend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
4.5 would be a fair assessment, for LP fans it's an amazing book with a lot of early days history, non LP fans can probably find some interest in how brutal music industry can be an some insight into music business in general. My main problem with this book was chapter length as it was unnecessary short, otherwise loved it!
August 10, 2022
fantastic book
I loved this book and I would highly recommend this to anyone who is a Linkin park fan a rock fan or a reader in general. There’s so much I learned while reading this and I think any other fan would too. R.I.P. Chester Bennington.
I loved this book and I would highly recommend this to anyone who is a Linkin park fan a rock fan or a reader in general. There’s so much I learned while reading this and I think any other fan would too. R.I.P. Chester Bennington.
December 6, 2023
I probably wouldn’t have given this audiobook a try had I not discovered it already included in my Audible membership. The only drift I caught was why Linkin Park axed Jeff Blue after their first album. LP fans, steer clear please.
July 13, 2025
A phenomenal read and Jeff's writing makes you feel like you're in the room with them. Technically it's fast paced, short chapters and gets to the point, but without compromising the emotional weight of the story.
July 28, 2025
Началото на една от най-великите групи на тоя свят! Адски увлекателна, първите 30-40 страници ги мотаех дълго време, но следващите ги изядох за 2 дни. Много прочувствено потапяне в историята на групата и трудностите, през които са преминали, за да стигнат абсолютно заслужени висоти.
May 26, 2023
I can’t express enough how much I loved this book. Thanks Jeff for sharing this big part of music history!
October 22, 2024
Excellent.
January 2, 2025
Elsket denne boka. Har vært fan av Linkin Park fra første stund og den kampen for å nå dit de er, var utrolig å lese om. For en gruppe og for en mann
som stod på for dem. Linkin Park forever❤️.
som stod på for dem. Linkin Park forever❤️.
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