Overview
A behind-the-scenes glimpse of the life of an enduring legend and his influence on American music
A candid and humorous journey through the life of a banjo legend.John McEuen, a founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, recounts his remarkable career in this engaging memoir. From his early days in Southern California to touring the world, McEuen shares stories of musical innovation, personal struggles, and encounters with iconic figures.
Discover the behind-the-scenes dynamics of a band that defied genres and left an indelible mark on American music. This is for music lovers, banjo enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an inspiring tale of creativity and perseverance. Relive the magic of:
- The creation of the groundbreaking Will the Circle Be Unbroken album
- Collaborations with legends like Earl Scruggs, Johnny Cash, and Steve Martin
- Navigating the highs and lows of a life on the road
Embark on a nitty-gritty journey through the life and times of a true American original.
Reviews
“Beautifully written, John’s book is an intimate and revealing memoir of a long and diverse music career and the ups and downs of life on the road. We’ve each had a complicated and thrilling journey since our high school friendship sent us off into the world.” —Steve Martin, banjo picker, actor, and writer
“John’s terrific, funny, moving book makes you feel like you are right there with him on some of the most famous stages in the world, in the top recording studios, and on the never-ending road. It makes you feel that an amazing successful career in music and show business is totally within reach—as long as you can play the banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and guitar brilliantly.” —David Mirkin, producer, The Simpsons
“Nitty Gritty is one of the greatest bands and gifts music will ever hold. John McEuen doesn’t know how not to be honest . . . as a player or an author. You’re going to love this read!!” —Garth Brooks
“John McEuen was a breathtaking prodigy when he made his bones in the Southern California music scene of the early seventies. This book chronicles the realization of that early promise and the challenges of a professional musician’s life on the road.” —Linda Ronstadt
“The road tales are extremely entertaining, but John’s depictions of off-the-road time spent with family are extremely entertaining too. Compelling, candid, hilarious, and heartwarming, The Life I’ve Picked by John McEuen shows he’s not just a great musician—he’s also a hell of a writer.” —Randy Poe, author of Skydog: The Duane Allman Story
“John McEuen has been a hero of mine since I first saw him flying around the stage with a fiddle at a Nitty Gritty Dirt Band show in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. A key member of that legendary band, solo artist of renown, radio host, producing great projects—all the while touring the world as an entertainer and influencer. . . . The Life I've Picked is a fun and poignant read. I thought I knew about John, but there is oh so much more to learn in this thrilling ride.” —Joe Bonsall, The Oak Ridge Boys
An “enjoyable, conversational memoir.”—Booklist Online
"I wouldn't want to have to count how many interesting stories small, medium and extra large that appear in John's long life in music, but they sure make for one fine book." —Elmore Magazine
Author Biography
John McEuen has made over 40 albums and hosts an XM Satellite show called Acoustic Traveler.
Mother's Day
Father's Day
