Rock And Roll Doctor: Lowell George: Guitarist, Songwriter and Founder of Little Feat

by Mark Brend, Little Feat (Artist), Lowell George (Artist)

(Book). The late Lowell George is best known as the lead singer, slide guitarist, songwriter and producer of Little Feat. George's humor and surreal lyrics became a Little Feat trademark, making songs like "Fat Man in the Bathtub" and "Dixie Chicken" unforgettable. Rock and Roll Doctor explores the genius that animated Little Feat from George's early bands to his work with Frank Zappa, landmark albums such as Feats Don't Fail Me Now and The Last Record Album , and his later production work with Linda Ronstadt and the Grateful Dead. George's colorful childhood is covered in depth as is his solo career after Little Feat that was cut short tragically. Each Little Feat album is treated to a separate chapter that examines the development of every song how it was conceived, recorded and produced. The analysis of Little Feat's complex rhythms will fascinate musicians and fans alike. Lowell George was the best singer, songwriter and guitar player I have ever heard, hands down, in my life. Bonnie Raitt

Genres: Music, Biography

176 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[Kate McKinney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Biography of Lowell George ~ xo ~ lead man for the early Little Feat band. Preliminary reading of this short little bio reveals a wry, humorous style that aptly captures the Lowell George vibe. Some startling pictures, including Lowell's school-yearbook pic (complete w/buzz-cut!). There are very interesting tidbits in this mini-book, some of which sound as if they've been provided by insiders in Lowell's circle; but some facts given are at odds w/other books (ie; this one characterizes Lowell George as a "warm family man & devoted father," while another book I read reported that he was philandering behind the back of his pregnant wife, w/Linda Ronstadt. - Huh? Can we reconcile these accounts somehow?) The writing deteriorates after the first few pages, becoming disjointed & hard to understand sometimes w/occasional syntactical errors. It comes across as a very informal, casual sort of thrown-together narrative; rather than an actual published book. There are sections of highly detailed technical musical evaluations which almost sound like recording-session debates or straight album reviews. Yet it digs up lots of interesting facts, sometimes quite arcane, not only about Lowell, but also about the state of the entire music scene & its evolution from the 50's thru the 70's & beyond, from various "garage bands," on thru the "British Invasion" & its American counterparts. Impressive inside angle on the whole culture of the time.

[Aric · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a bit dry and clinical. If you're a Little Feat fan, I would recommend the book written about them by Ben Fong-Torres.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Little Feat was my favorite band growing up in the 1970's. Its founder, Lowell George, was a talented songwriter, slide guitarist, and lead vocalist that died far before his time.

There was little new information in this book. However, for someone who is unfamiliar with the band, they will find a way in.

[Kerri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having loved Little Feat and Lowell George in particular I really enjoyed this book. I learned some things I didn’t know and could reminisce where I was at in life when I first heard Dixie Chicken. Great times!

[Catherine Young · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sloppily written. Poorly researched. Not recommended.

[Janet · Rating 2 out of 5]

Chock full of musical tidbits about Lowell George, but the author had this annoying habit of continually referring to the man as "portly" and having a need for control---over and over.

[Jakob Bork · Rating 3 out of 5]

F****** A