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Purple Bananas: How Prince Saved Me and Other Selections from the Soundtrack 2 My Life
Dig if you will the picture ... Jason Webber is adopted at birth into a dysfunctional evangelical family. Scared, bullied, and living with a crippling stutter, his life seems hopeless...until one day he sees a tiny androgynous Black man in heels on the television. There's something magnetic about this man--named Prince--and Jason starts to find a way to navigate through the world with Prince's music as his guiding light. From the newsrooms of Toledo, Ohio to the boardrooms of the political world to stages with Insane Clown Posse, the magic of Prince helps this troubled young man get through this thing called life. A valentine to the immortal music and persona of Prince and a testament to the power of the human spirit, Purple Bananas is a rollicking rock 'n' roll journey you'll love to take.
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2020
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20 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 30, 2020
I don't often read memoirs or music-themed books, and while I dig Prince -- I'll never not crank up "When Doves Cry" when it comes on the radio -- I'm far from a fan. But Webber's crisp prose and honest storytelling propelled me through his surprising and heartfelt debut. It doesn't hurt that Webber's story is a hell of a ride -- his journey from awkward adoptee in an ultra-Christian family to Insane Clown Posse spokesman and beyond, by way of Prince, is singular and surprising. A fun escape during these furious and frantic times.
October 5, 2020
I had met Jason in passing socially through work a few times, am a bicentennial baby, & have grown up enjoying Prince, and have passed on that appreciation of good f'ing music to my now 18 year old son. I was intrigued enough to purchase this book & support a local writer/past editor superstar guru for Adams Street Publishing.
I read it in 2 days. Interesting - deep - heartfelt - somber - to read the correlations between Jason's life and Princes' music. His interpretation of individual songs, albums, & his perception of their meanings was simple in a deep meaningful way. The honesty Jason expresses in this book has left me speechless. I can't describe the emotional roller coaster of his life - the highs, lows, twists, turns and then an upside down loop when you least expect it. Ha, which is exactly like a Prince album.
Read this, and then watch yourself turn on Prince, tilt your head, and go "oh yea" as you will hear the songs in a whole new light, thinking of the soundtrack to Jason's life.
I read it in 2 days. Interesting - deep - heartfelt - somber - to read the correlations between Jason's life and Princes' music. His interpretation of individual songs, albums, & his perception of their meanings was simple in a deep meaningful way. The honesty Jason expresses in this book has left me speechless. I can't describe the emotional roller coaster of his life - the highs, lows, twists, turns and then an upside down loop when you least expect it. Ha, which is exactly like a Prince album.
Read this, and then watch yourself turn on Prince, tilt your head, and go "oh yea" as you will hear the songs in a whole new light, thinking of the soundtrack to Jason's life.
September 27, 2021
I am not yet finished with this book but know enough to get started on a review. I haven't yet figured out how to write a rough draft review on Goodreads without posting yet (I'm old) so I'll just write a little now and update and add more once I've finished reading. First of all, When I see a self published book with almost all 5 star reviews, I know that in most cases, those reviews come from friends and family. It doesn't mean that the book isn't good, but in most cases that's what's happening when you see all 5 stars on a self published book. Not so in this case! I don't know the author at all and I picked the book up on a whim and .... this book is SO GOOD!! I'm not sure but I believe this is the author's first book and it's just great. What's great about it is how sincere and candid the author is. Without being "overly writerly" he really does take you on the journey of his life with Prince as a major backdrop. Prince was the backdrop to my life as well and I completely understand how he feels as life happens and he has Prince there through it all. Another thing, I don't have to like the author to like the book -- there are plenty of good books I've read where I didn't necessarily like the author but with this book, I just honestly love the author! He seems to be a good guy and so genuine and it comes across throughout the book. When I read a book where someone tries to come across as likeable and adorable and it comes off as insincere -- I am immediately turned off -- but this guy is just so likeable and it really comes through and makes this such a good read. I LOVE that he put a picture on the back of the book as himself dressed up as Prince on a Scooter. And that he went to see Purple Rain in the theatre after Prince died, dressed this way! Because it just shows the absolute love and adoration he genuinely had for Prince. That he ends the prologue with, "Shall we begin, Lisa?" is just genius and gave me such a chuckle! It's so much fun to read about his 80s excitement - his Walkman, going to Sam Goody's - going to the mall on the lookout for new Prince stuff -- I feel you -- I did the same! And he really sets the scene to that wonderful time in life when life was fun. Those were great days.
And, Oh, my Gawd! The fact that he lost his virginity wearing a Prince condom, a "purple raincoat" -- WTF -- I never knew such a thing existed! I love it!
But the book is not just silly fun -- it's also very poignant. His parents, who spanked him with a belt until the age of 16, I absolutely hated! But then, Jason turns it around by describing his parents, who absolutely hated Prince, going to a Prince concert with him and bobbing their heads along with the music and I actually teared up and about halfway through the book, changed my mind about them. No one is ever just one thing. It's beautiful, the way he writes about them and you see how they are flawed but not bad people.
Also, I'm a Prince fan but I never heard, "Right the Wrong" which Jason says is a country song. I will have to look that up - I never knew that Prince sang a country song! I got most everything but somehow, I never had any interest in Chaos & Disorder.
The part where he goes to Detroit to meet up with the girl he met on the the internet who is also a rabid Prince fan, Selena, is funny but also so sad. That she had nothing in her life BUT Prince. :(
Well, I'll update when I finish reading but these are my thoughts for now and I know enough to give it 5 Stars -- This is a fun read and I've thoroughly enjoyed going back to the days when there was such excitement over what Prince was doing, what he was coming out with, when a concert was coming up, those were such great days.
Also, let me add -- The Insane Clown Posse who Jason worked for, I had always thought was silly (sorry for that to any Juggalos) but, the fact that they did a promo video for this book shows what absolute cool guys they must be! There aren't many groups or famous people that would do that and I just think that is the coolest and the nicest thing. So, much respect to them for that.
Okay... back to reading...
Alright -- I'm done. Wow. I did not see that coming. I cried at the end! When I ordered this book, I expected a nice little story by a Prince fan. Maybe even something silly and fun and this book was fun but it was also deep. At the end when Jason posts his poem about Prince called, "U Never Knew Me but U Were My Best Friend," I'll admit -- at first I kinda rolled my eyes, "Oh Lord, a fan poem" but... No! That was beautiful! And I couldn't believe it, but I cried.
This book was just great. My daughter, who never takes my suggestions when I suggest books to her (and I have told her of some great ones) is going to order this one. Mainly because she's a Prince fan but also because, as I've been reading, I've been texting her some of the funny stuff (like him farting when he lost his virginity) and also texting her the sad and the sweet things too. I even sent her the link to the video of the ICP promoting his book -- I told her I would send her my copy but she said, "Nope! I'm supporting J- Webb, he sounds Awesome!" so --
The only thing about the book that gave me pause was when he said that "Sister" was written about.... er... Tyka! (?) Lord No, I don't think so! But I guess Prince fans have their own interpretations of the lyrics. But I certainly never thought Tyka! Sharon maybe... but not Tyka.
Another thing -- He talks of his PTSD from working for Mayor Carty Finkbeiner and when I went on Youtube and put in the name Carty Finkbeiner, one of the first things that popped up was a video from the local news showing the mayor at the park, being caught on camera calling a kid Fatso. Sounds like a delight to work for. No wonder the poor guy has PTSD.
Well, just now as I was writing this review, My daughter called and I read Jason's poem to her from the book and we both cried!
Jason, you did something amazing with this book -- you took us on a journey through your life with Prince and it was beautiful. The last thing I want to say is that I wish Prince could read this - he would be so proud.
And, Oh, my Gawd! The fact that he lost his virginity wearing a Prince condom, a "purple raincoat" -- WTF -- I never knew such a thing existed! I love it!
But the book is not just silly fun -- it's also very poignant. His parents, who spanked him with a belt until the age of 16, I absolutely hated! But then, Jason turns it around by describing his parents, who absolutely hated Prince, going to a Prince concert with him and bobbing their heads along with the music and I actually teared up and about halfway through the book, changed my mind about them. No one is ever just one thing. It's beautiful, the way he writes about them and you see how they are flawed but not bad people.
Also, I'm a Prince fan but I never heard, "Right the Wrong" which Jason says is a country song. I will have to look that up - I never knew that Prince sang a country song! I got most everything but somehow, I never had any interest in Chaos & Disorder.
The part where he goes to Detroit to meet up with the girl he met on the the internet who is also a rabid Prince fan, Selena, is funny but also so sad. That she had nothing in her life BUT Prince. :(
Well, I'll update when I finish reading but these are my thoughts for now and I know enough to give it 5 Stars -- This is a fun read and I've thoroughly enjoyed going back to the days when there was such excitement over what Prince was doing, what he was coming out with, when a concert was coming up, those were such great days.
Also, let me add -- The Insane Clown Posse who Jason worked for, I had always thought was silly (sorry for that to any Juggalos) but, the fact that they did a promo video for this book shows what absolute cool guys they must be! There aren't many groups or famous people that would do that and I just think that is the coolest and the nicest thing. So, much respect to them for that.
Okay... back to reading...
Alright -- I'm done. Wow. I did not see that coming. I cried at the end! When I ordered this book, I expected a nice little story by a Prince fan. Maybe even something silly and fun and this book was fun but it was also deep. At the end when Jason posts his poem about Prince called, "U Never Knew Me but U Were My Best Friend," I'll admit -- at first I kinda rolled my eyes, "Oh Lord, a fan poem" but... No! That was beautiful! And I couldn't believe it, but I cried.
This book was just great. My daughter, who never takes my suggestions when I suggest books to her (and I have told her of some great ones) is going to order this one. Mainly because she's a Prince fan but also because, as I've been reading, I've been texting her some of the funny stuff (like him farting when he lost his virginity) and also texting her the sad and the sweet things too. I even sent her the link to the video of the ICP promoting his book -- I told her I would send her my copy but she said, "Nope! I'm supporting J- Webb, he sounds Awesome!" so --
The only thing about the book that gave me pause was when he said that "Sister" was written about.... er... Tyka! (?) Lord No, I don't think so! But I guess Prince fans have their own interpretations of the lyrics. But I certainly never thought Tyka! Sharon maybe... but not Tyka.
Another thing -- He talks of his PTSD from working for Mayor Carty Finkbeiner and when I went on Youtube and put in the name Carty Finkbeiner, one of the first things that popped up was a video from the local news showing the mayor at the park, being caught on camera calling a kid Fatso. Sounds like a delight to work for. No wonder the poor guy has PTSD.
Well, just now as I was writing this review, My daughter called and I read Jason's poem to her from the book and we both cried!
Jason, you did something amazing with this book -- you took us on a journey through your life with Prince and it was beautiful. The last thing I want to say is that I wish Prince could read this - he would be so proud.
September 14, 2020
I am totally drawn into this book. It is very real, and poignant. I believe many will relate to Jason Webber's story of childhood trauma, adolescent confusion, life transitions and finding a safe place in music. I am not finished reading it but am excited to see how the book concludes. I hope this won't be the last book from Mr. Webber.
Kudos on a wonderfully readable 1st book. Here's to your ongoing success.
Kudos on a wonderfully readable 1st book. Here's to your ongoing success.
September 17, 2020
I'd like to start by saying I like Prince's music but I've never bought an album for whatever reason. I guess I'm not a huge superfan. But this book is really about much more than that. It reminded me, of all things, of Angela's Ashes -- it's a story about how hard and how unfair life can be, and how the author found something that helped him survive. I would hope we all have something like that in our lives. It's really inspiring to have someone open themselves up and show strangers (the readers) every personal thought, triumph, and failure. I can't say I've read a whole lot of books that seemed 100% honest, but this one definitely does. And in the end, like Angela's Ashes, I found it inspiring and hopeful. Which is something I could certainly use right now!
December 13, 2020
This book was absolutely a treasure that I am so appreciative to have stumbled upon through a Prince group on Facebook. The book was so well written that I could not put it down and finished in a few hours. Jason does a wonderful job connecting with the reader and has a fascinating life story to share. This book is not only for Prince fans, but also those who struggle with growing up in dysfunctional families, struggle with addition and/or mental health, you can find yourself not alone in the world. Music is so powerful and healing and Jason does a great job showing how Prince really did save him and shows that through Prince's extensive catalogue of music in various points in his life. I hope that others who read this will be just as impressed with this book as I was.
September 16, 2020
Jason tells a brave story of his childhood, his hopes, his dreams, and all of the ups and downs that got him where he is. I am so proud, as a friend, of all that he has achieved despite the hardships he has endured. He tells the story In such a unique narrative that it makes you take a step into his life. Loved the behind-the-scenes details of Gov't and Performing artists lifestyles too. Very cool read.
January 24, 2025
Wasn't sure what I was getting into here, but this is a very personal account of a life told through music by someone who loves music. Not being a big fan of Prince, I can't really relate or understand much other than being stumped by Raspberry Beret, but the author's feeling and intent can clearly be felt. It's a good read if you want to dive into real feelings and experiences from someone with a tender heart who experiences life with great passion.
September 23, 2020
“Dig if you will the picture” of a huge Prince fan’s life story. For fans and music lovers alike, Jason Webber eloquently takes us on the soundtrack to his life. Prince’s music provides a great backdrop for the interesting stories and anecdotes told my Webber. A great read of the ups and downs that life throws at you in a way that is relevant, clever and compelling.
October 9, 2020
One of the best reads of 2020 and beyond. The first chapter will have you hooked. The pain, sadness and shock pours off the pages when he describes the moment he realized that Prince was gone. No words could describe it but he finds a way to do just that. Seriously pick up this book! I'm not a huge fan of Prince but damn is this good.
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October 26, 2020This has to be one of the best books have have read in recent history! Jason is such a good story teller that I was hooked and couldn't put this book down until it was finished!! If you are a fan of Prince this book is for you! And if you aren't a fan yet, this book will make you want to be! Great job Jason! I can't wait to see what you do next!!!
October 26, 2020
Purple Bananas captures you from the very beginning. The author's description of his life, the good & horiffic, has you both smiling & on the verge of tears in the same paragraph. Mr. Webber displays a great deal of strength by surviving this hell, but also in having the strength to relive it through Purple Bananas. Remember his name. Im certain he will become a 'must read` author.
September 26, 2020
It was witty. It was heart wrenching. The author does a great job referencing works from Prince but the way these works shaped and saved his life will move you. One of the best memoirs I have ever read.
December 3, 2020
I'm not much for memoirs, but hell, I went to part of junior high and high school with this gentleman, so why not? I'm glad I did. This book is a gritty, witty series of snapshots into the life of an amazing, colorful person.
December 9, 2020
The full review can be found here:
https://joyzineuk.wordpress.com/2020/...
https://joyzineuk.wordpress.com/2020/...
January 4, 2021
This book was a complete joy to read! Jason's reflection on his life as an outsider covers a lot of heavy ground - depression, addiction, heartbreak - yet keeps itself ultimately fulfilling and uplifting in tone and outcome.
I had a really great time chatting to Jason in an interview you can find below, he seems like a top guy and as a debut novel, I'm very impressed.
https://www.redbrick.me/redbrick-meet...
Hilariously honest, brutally sad but utterly uplifting, Jason’s position as an outsider is what gives the book real value as a weird and wonderful tribute to Prince. A testament to the deep meaning music can take hold within us and between us, I strongly recommended the book to anyone looking for something that's easy to get drawn into.
I had a really great time chatting to Jason in an interview you can find below, he seems like a top guy and as a debut novel, I'm very impressed.
https://www.redbrick.me/redbrick-meet...
Hilariously honest, brutally sad but utterly uplifting, Jason’s position as an outsider is what gives the book real value as a weird and wonderful tribute to Prince. A testament to the deep meaning music can take hold within us and between us, I strongly recommended the book to anyone looking for something that's easy to get drawn into.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews