The definitive biography of songwriter Randy Newman, told with his full cooperation, by acclaimed biographer and longtime Los Angeles Times music critic, Robert Hilburn.
A toothless hagiography packed with obvious filler, notably extended quotations from song lyrics and panegyrics from admirers ... This book demonstrates little feel for Newman’s music. I wanted it to contain memorable ideas and sentences, but it does not ... A better-reported and more critical biography will probably have to wait until Newman, and others central to his story, are no longer with us.
Straightforward, helpful in clarifying the intentions underlying Newman’s most challenging songs ... Written with the participation of its subject, who contributes comments with restrained candor and wry, arch wit.
