Title: All the Hits All the Time: More Distinctive Rock Memories from the Coffman Collection
Author: Larry Coffman
Publisher: Newman Springs
ISBN: 979-8890616524
Pages: 328
Genre: Music Entertainment & History
Reviewer: Christina Avina
Pacific Book Review
Music has played a major role in how the public is influenced for centuries. From the songs sung by crews on long voyages across the sea to the music playing through the halls of a royal court and beyond, each civilization has had their own style and popular music to fill their homes and their hearts. That has increased tenfold in the last century, and in the United States and beyond one genre has become more prevalent than any other, rock and roll. From the early days of Elvis Presley and the Beatles to Linkin Park and Metallica, the evolution of Rock and Roll has had a major impact on the history of not only America, but the world itself.
These impacts that rock has had on civilization over the last century is the focus of author Larry Coffman’s All the Hits All the Time: More Distinctive Rock Memories from the Coffman Collection. The book is a love letter to the genre, providing readers with a plethora of trivial facts, backstories, and memories from the long and storied history of rock and roll. An ode to the days of radio disc jockeys, the book’s title reflects the author’s philosophy of the genre, capturing the feeling of musicianship and artistry with a sense of magic that the genre seems to evoke in the reader.
Each chapter does a remarkable job of feeling like a book of history mixed with personal anecdotes and is written in a way that feels both conversational and educational all at once. The way the author examines both individual songs and artists with sub-genres within the rock genre, such as doo-wop and one-hit wonders, was so thrilling to get insight into. Yet it was the way these individual songs played out, such as his examination of Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven,” that showcased the depth of both research and emotion that went into each song’s influence over the pop culture scene, and how rock music was just about melting faces or intense guitar solos but processing different emotions and telling stories as well.
For those who enjoy music, especially rock and roll, or who enjoy art books and non-fiction dealing with a specific subject of history, namely music, this book is perfect. Whether it is for a coffee table read or a more in-depth analysis of one’s favorite rock songs, the book has a level of interactivity that really speaks to the reader. Each chapter holds insight and specifics regarding songs, and the reader instantly is drawn to find these songs for themselves to feel the impact these lyrics and chords have on the audience. Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, and unforgettable trivia, this collection dives deeper into the tracks, artists, and cultural moments that shaped the soundtrack of a generation. Whether you’re a lifelong rock fan or a curious newcomer, these pages will have you tapping your foot and turning the page.
