Every summer, I make up a list of books that I’ve been meaning to get around to but just haven’t during the year. They usually make good poolside reading (or in my case, couch-side reading) but these aren’t your typical reading club choices. I tend to lean towards books I want to take notes about, scribble in, draw dumb pictures and highlight passages. These are just a few I’m reading now. Suggestions are appreciated.
Our Band Could Be Your Life
R.E.M. Talk About the Passion (An Oral History)
I first came across this book at the UGA library, tucked away in a dusty corner. It’s not the most well known R.E.M. bio but it’s one of the better alternate opinion biographies out there. Probably the most interesting thing about this book is that it tells the story of R.E.M. through the voices of many people surrounding the band. Not everyone has positive things to say… Makes for a good companion to something like It Crawled From the South.
All You Need To Know About The Music Business
Yeah, I finally grabbed the 7th edition, probably just in time for the 8th to come out but regardless, this is a very awesome book for anyone who has ever wondered what (insert random music figure here) does. Should be used more as a reference book and guideline than a Bible but I know of those who swear by it. I’d recommend getting your own copy just so you can underline and highlight to your heart’s content.
athensmusicjunkie.com 
hi, jordan! as a lifelong music-writing obsessive, here's a list of the indispensables.
“ask” and “words and music” by paul morley
“in the fascist bathroom” by greil marcus
“a whore just like the rest” by richard meltzer
“psychotic reactions & carbureator dung” by lester bangs
“lost joy” by camden joy
don't know if you like nirvana, but their biography by everett true is a great read. don't know if it's available at the uga library (the rest are, except for camden joy probably), but if you want to read it let me know.
best,