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.
Hilburn's main source is his own interviews with Randy Newman and his immediate environment ... It is very well that this biography is here now. Robert Hilburn has drawn some invaluable material out of the musician, for which his affectionate admirers will be grateful. At the very least, this volume is a deserved celebration of a deeply loved artist. An indispensable book for fans of the singular Randy Newman.
