I guess I shouldn't be surprised that my favorite songwriter is also great at writing a memoir. This book is an incredible insight into his life and upbringing, as well as his musical journey.
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Going into this I must let you know that I am s huge Tweedy fan as is. I don't think that is going to color this review, but it might. This is a fantastic book that is written so conversationally that it's hard to not imagine he's across from you telling the story of his days. It's extraordinarily interesting and just a great read. Well done
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I don't know what it is about band memoirs but I love them.
Aside from this being a personal recommendation by Leah, I have stared at this book as it's sat on our shelf for the past month. The black and white cover captivated me for some reason I cannot explain, but it made me want to read the book even more.

When beginning my read, I had only listened really to Jesus, Etc. and California Stars by Wilco. Chapter by chapter though, Tweedy would talk about specific songs and as I listened to more of their albums it was a really cool experience to hear the backstories to their creation. Not only does Tweedy go through his songwriting process, but he also introduces you to the way he listens to his own music. His view on the "tortured artist" mentality was something I really latched onto.
Because I think that artists create in spite of suffering, not because of suffering. Everyone suffers by degrees and I believe everyone has the capacity to create, but I think you’re one of the lucky ones if you found an outlet for your discomfort or a way to cope through art (Tweedy 90).


Another one of my favorite things in this book was the way Tweedy told his stories, ranging from typical first person text in the book or to a comic about a spark with his wife, to transcribed conversations with her and his son about what he should include in the memoir. These were fun ways to shake up the book and I think they were expertly placed throughout.

Lastly, I'm having fun finding out what era of Wilco I enjoy most.

I think I’ve finally stopped worrying about getting back from somewhere less comfortable -- some place where I’m sure I’m going to be miserable. I believe I’m starting to be “okay” wherever I am. I think I’m ready to just say, “Let’s go" (Tweedy 279).

I love everything this man has ever written, including this book. One day I would like to meet him, just to say thank you (for nothing) for the rock and roll, and all the times it has been the thing that got me through.

I didn’t want this book to end. It’s so special, so perfect. I mean, I’ve been a Wilco fan from the beginning so I expected this book would be FOR ME, but what I didn’t expect was how hilarious, touching, honest, sincere, and profound Jeff Tweedy would be in telling his story, and in tandem, Wilco’s story. I always know a book is excellent when I can’t stop myself from reading passages aloud to my husband. I do it because I NEED TO SHARE THE BRILLIANCE IMMEDIATELY. I read a lot of passages aloud from this book. I was so impressed throughout by Jeff’s writing style, humor, and candor. There is heavy stuff in here. And light stuff. And love. And music. I wish I could read it again for the first time.

5 Solid Gold Stars!
I loved this book so much. I’ve been CONSTANTLY blathering about this book.
Loved his growing up stories from the 70’s in IL. Loved all his stories about discovering punk music. I had my assumptions about him and they were all wrong. Super touching stories about his family, being a dad and working through addiction.
Can’t wait till I see Wilco again in October!
If you love rock music in general, read it. You do not have to be a Wilco fan to appreciate this memoir. However, you may become one before the epilogue is through.

I’m a sucker for musician memoirs, and I love Jeff Tweety’s voice (lyrically, and verbally). I listened to the audio, and it didn’t disappoint. I loved the humor and self-deprecation in this memoir. His wife and eldest son have voice cameos as well. His grit and humility fascinate me. If you love Uncle Tupelo, Wilco, or Tweedy, just do it.