Friday, November 16, 2012

"Last Night a DJ Saved My Life" by Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton




A super interesting history of the DJ and his record collection.  This book basically covers the time when a man or woman played a record in front of an audience.   From the 1920's to Disco era to the obsessive codes of Northern Soul record collecting.

I thought I wasn't into dance music or DJ culture, but  "Last Night a DJ Saved My Life" is an essential history of the importance of playing music (yes records) in front of an audience or another listener.   Truly a fascinating history of records and the role it plays in individuals' lives as well as the great mix of social groups of all sorts.  The Northern Soul cult is beyond fascinating.  DJ's locating old Motown, Stax recordings that WERE NOT HITS.  Yet are beautiful records.   The DJ's would protect their source with their lives.  Also the connection between Gay sub-culture and disco clubs is one fascinating read.  Really this is truly a great book.

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