Director Cameron Crowe is best known for films such as Vanilla Sky, Say Anything..., and the semi-autobiographical Almost Famous, all of which feature iconic soundtracks. The critical role music plays in his film work is no accident. Indeed, the journalist turned director claims in his captivating memoir, "The marriage of film and music would soon be my favorite part of writing and directing films."
In The Uncool, Crowe depicts his unlikely journey from gawky high schooler in the 1970s to rock journalist chronicling some of the biggest and most influential musical acts of the day. Crowe's family is lovingly and poignantly depicted, including his sister Cathy, who died by suicide, indelibly marking the family.
Crowe's portrayal of the travels and interviews he did with musicians brings them and the era vibrantly alive. He recalls sitting down with legends Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Joni Mitchell, the Eagles, and countless others. Crowe seemed to possess an extraordinary ability to connect with rock stars as well as other journalists (like Lester Bangs and Jann Wenner) not as gods or tastemakers, but as complex, flawed human beings. It was a skill infused with warmth and genuine curiosity that would later serve him well in the world of filmmaking.
This is a remarkable and moving memoir, with an engaging and unforgettable cast of characters, that will resonate well beyond fans of celebrated '70s music. The Uncool is a celebration of the passionate, often awkward and chaotic, journey to find one's place in the world. --Elizabeth DeNoma, executive editor, DeNoma Literary Services, Seattle, Wash.