So You Want To Be A Rock & Roll Star

by Jacob Slichter

After years of working day jobs and making music in his basement, Jacob Slichter wondered if his dreams of rock stardom were a vain illusion. Then he was recruited by two of his successful musician friends to form a band that became Semisonic. Who could forget the smash single “Closing Time,” a runaway hit in 1998 that thrust Jake and his bandmates into the international spotlight and helped them sell over two million albums worldwide? But along the road to fame and success came bewilderment and personal chaos: How will we ever get a record deal? Which record company is the best? The worst? Do I really have to wear these ridiculous boots? Why isn’t radio playing our song? What if I have a panic attack right here on stage? What should I write on this fan’s CD? Am I famous? Why isn’t the video director getting more shots of me? Did I say the wrong thing during that interview? Help!

Genres: Music, Memoir

Unknown Binding

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun and informative read about the music industry in the 1990s. Lots of great stories of visiting radio stations in the hopes they will play your song, touring and all the craziness that comes with have one song that will forever define you. Despite being one of the finest bands of their time.
Jake had a great perspective of the chaos and does a wonderful job telling it. Been a fan of these guys since they were known as Pleasure and hope to get to see them as Semisonic one more time.

[Nicklaus Cherup · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed Jacob’s point of view and description of the music industry in the 90’s. This behind the scenes look is totally insightful, funny, and informative.

[Rich Nymoen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very entertaining rock memoir!