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Elton John at 75 by Gillian G. GaarElton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar

Thanks to Steve Roth of The Quarto Group, I am giving away one print copy of ‘Elton John at 75’.

Description Elton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar


Few rock artists continue to gather more and more adulation with age. Sir Elton Hercules John is an exception who proves the rule. In Elton John at 75, veteran rock journalist Gillian Gaar examines the rock icon through the lens of 75 career accomplishments and life events. Key studio albums are featured, of course, as are a curated selection of his earworm singles. But Gaar delves deeper to reveal the events that helped chart the course of Elton’s career:

  • Key performances such as his breakthrough performance at LA’s Troubadour, and the historic Soviet Union and Dodger Stadium concerts
  • Legendary collaborations with the likes of George Michael, Billy Joel, and Kate Bush
  • His many film and television roles, including Tommy and The Muppet Show
  • Tireless work on behalf of AIDS research
  • Notable awards and honors, including knighthood
  • And of course, his collaboration with long-time cowriter Bernie Taupin

Beginning with his 1969 debut LP, Elton John is regarded as one of the most influential musicians and performers of the previous five decades. In examining 75 touchstones, Gaar provides a unique presentation of Elton’s career arc, from his first steps as a solo artist to the breakthrough album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road to his flamboyant stage presence, and beyond.

Every page is illustrated with stunning concert and candid offstage photography, including gig posters, 7-inch picture sleeves, and more. This incredible package also includes a gatefold Elton John timeline, a previously unpublished gatefold artwork, an 8×10-inch glossy print, and a pullout poster. The result is a stunning tribute to one of the most admired stars in rock—in a milestone year.

My Thoughts Elton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar


I had always wanted to see Elton John live however, for many reasons, I didn’t get to see him until his Farewell concert in 2019.  Yes, he is still touring with his farewell concert but that is because he had to postpone while we were all in social isolation for covid.  If you get the chance, do not hesitate!  I have been to a lot of concerts but his is in my top 5!

Then Steve Roth of The Quarto Group sent me an email asking if I wanted to review this new book coming out about him by Gillian G. Gaar.  She just happens to be my favorite Rock and Roll biographer so, of course I wanted it.  I was so excited to be asked.  Not only that, Steve agreed that I could offer a giveaway of one print copy to my readers! This is a $75 book, even more in Canada! 

As usual, Gaar has done an exceptional job in not only writing but curating some of the best photos, memorabilia, etc.  Due to my older sister being an earlier fan, I thought I had seen it all.  I hadn’t!  This book is packed full of amazing photos and includes an 8X10 poster! 

When this book came in the mail, I absolutely geeked out.  I couldn’t put it down until the last page!  I have had it for about three and a half weeks now and have gone through it several times.  It has a prominent spot on our coffee table with many other spectacular musicians! This would be the absolute perfect gift for Elton John lovers, I only wish my big sister was still around so I could get it for her!

Despite the price tag, I cannot recommend this book highly enough!  I give it 5 plus stars!

About Gillian G. GaarElton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar


Gillian G. Gaar has written for numerous publications, including MojoRolling Stone, and Goldmine. Previous books include She’s a Rebel: The History of Women in Rock & RollEntertain Us: The Rise of Nirvana; Return of the King: Elvis Presley’s Great ComebackThe Doors: The Complete Illustrated History; and Boss: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band—The Illustrated History. She lives in Seattle.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GillianGaar

Buy Elton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar


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Giveaway Elton John at 75 by Gillian G. Gaar


This giveaway is open to Canada and the U.S. only and ends on November 18, 2022 midnight pacific time.  Entries are accepted via Rafflecopter only.
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Bandstand Diaries by Sharon Cutler, Arlene Sullivan & Ray SmithBandstand Diaries: The Philadelphia Years, 1956-1963 by Arlene Sullivan, Ray Smith, Sharon Sultan Cutler


 Thanks to Marcy Manning of Winger Marketing, I am giving away 3 print copies of Bandstand Diaries.

Description of Bandstand Diaries by Sharon Cutler, Arlene Sullivan & Ray Smith


Bandstand Diaries: The Philadelphia Years, 1956-1963 shares the fascinating story of how Dick Clark’s American Bandstand and its millions of viewers catapulted its teenage dancers (called “the Regulars”) to fame. These teenagers became the nation’s first reality-TV stars–they received thousands of fan letters and were mobbed everywhere they went. Their adoring fans copied their fashions, fads, and dance steps. Then, when they turned 18, they disappeared from the public eye, except for occasional reunions and news stories.

Fans have long wondered whatever became of Arlene and Kenny, Bob and Justine, Frani, Pat, Carole, Frankie, Billy, and so many of the others dancers, who are now in their late 60s and early 70s.

Bandstand Diaries brings together all the stories, interviews, and rare photos in a full-color, nostalgia-filled book.

You’ll enjoy:

A poignant introduction by Bobby Rydell
Entries from Arlene Sullivan’s personal diary
Interviews with the living legends today
Following Dick Clark’s rise to fame
Special Tributes for Pat Molittieri, Carole Scaldeferri, Myrna Horowitz, and others
Information on special theme shows and reunions
Fan club experiences
Reliving the music and the performers including Annette, Frankie Avalon, Bobby Rydell, Paul Anka, Danny and the Juniors. Charlie Gracie, Fabian, and more
Learning how American Bandstand made rock ‘n’ roll respectable

Bandstand Diaries features almost 700 photos from then and now in a coffee-table book. Purchase your copy of this Collector’s Limited Edition and take a nostalgic walk through those memory-filled days when rock ‘n’ roll became the soundtrack of a generation, when television was in grainy black-and-white, and when a 45 RPM record cost less than 70 cents. It’s back to the good old days with a modern interpretation.

About Arlene Sullivan, Ray Smith, & Sharon Cutler


Arlene Sullivan grew up in Southwest Philadelphia and was one of the most celebrated

Bandstand Diaries by Sharon Cutler, Arlene Sullivan & Ray Smith

Arlene Sullivan Sorts Through Fan Mail

Regulars on American Bandstand, appearing on the show from 1956 to 1960. She graduated from St. Monica’s Commercial School in South Philadelphia. Arlene worked at Dun & Bradstreet, and did a stint in the sales office of the Warwick Hotel. When gambling came to Atlantic City, Arlene became a blackjack dealer, and dealt cards for 31 years. Arlene has been featured in scores of magazines, and has been seen on many TV shows. 

Ray Smith was born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia. He graduated from John Bartram High School and attended Penn State as a Labor Management Major. It was not for him, so he moved to New York and studied dance and drama. He graduated from Hunter College Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Film Criticism. In 1967, he joined NBC News, and worked on the Today Show until his retirement in 2007. Ray won an Emmy as part of the show’s news writing team. He worked with Noche Flamenca Dance Company for many years, as well as Sachiyo Ito’s Japanese Dance Company. Ray is the co-author of Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, and attended American Bandstand from 1957 to 1959, though he was never a Regular. 

lBandstand Diaries by Sharon Cutler, Arlene Sullivan & Ray SmithSharon Sultan Cutler grew up on New York’s Long Island, and was an avid American Bandstand fan.  She remembers running home from middle school back in 1957 to watch the show on her black and white television set. Like 20 million other fans throughout the country, Sharon couldn’t get enough of Kenny and Arlene, Bob and Justine, and many more of the regulars who jitterbugged and strolled their way into teenage America’s hearts. Sharon is a journalism graduate of New York University, and has worked as a copywriter for Simon & Schuster. She ran a Nanny-Housekeeping agency, and created Long Island’s first “50 Plus Expos.” Sharon lives in Chicago.

Giveaway of Bandstand Diaries by Sharon Cutler, Arlene Sullivan & Ray Smith


This giveaway is open to the U.S. only and ends on March 17, 2017 midnight pacific time.  Entries are accepted via Rafflecopter only.

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