So What: The Life of Miles Davis : Book Review

"So What: The Life of Miles Davis" by John Szwed is an extensive biography that explores the life, music, and impact of the iconic jazz musician, Miles Davis. Szwed provides a detailed and captivating account of Davis's early beginnings, his journey to fame, and his lasting influence on the jazz genre.

One of the highlights of this biography is Szwed's in-depth analysis of Davis's complex personality and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Readers get a glimpse into Davis's personal and professional relationships, gaining insight into the successes and challenges he encountered throughout his career. The author explores Davis's collaborations with other jazz legends and also delves into the struggles he faced with addiction, presenting a nuanced portrayal of Davis as a multifaceted individual.

What truly sets "So What" apart is Szwed's profound understanding of Davis's music. His insightful analysis guides readers through Davis's artistic evolution, showcasing how he pushed the boundaries of jazz and experimented with different styles. Szwed's vivid descriptions of Davis's performances capture the essence of his music, evoking a deep appreciation for his talent and the emotions his music evoked.

Furthermore, "So What" contextualizes Davis's life and music within the social and political landscape of his time. Szwed examines the influence of Davis's experiences as a Black man on his music and activism. The book delves into the racism Davis faced within the music industry and his determination to challenge societal norms through his work.

Overall, "So What: The Life of Miles Davis" is a meticulous and captivating biography that provides a comprehensive understanding of this jazz icon. Szwed's thorough research and insightful analysis make it a must-read for jazz enthusiasts and those interested in the life and legacy of Miles Davis. It admirably encapsulates the transformative journey and enduring legacy of one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

What are readers saying?

The book "So What: The Life of Miles Davis" by John Szwed has garnered a mix of opinions from readers. While some found the book to be enlightening and thoroughly researched, others expressed disappointment with its writing style and lack of thoroughness in exploring Davis' life and career.

Many readers praised the extensive research carried out by Szwed. They appreciated the author's profound knowledge of jazz history, which enabled him to provide a detailed account of Davis' life. Numerous reviewers found the book to be well-researched and comprehensive, offering a wealth of information about the iconic musician.

However, some readers were left dissatisfied with the writing style. They remarked that the book had an overly academic, dry tone that made it difficult to maintain engagement. Moreover, these readers felt that Szwed's writing lacked the passion and energy that should be present when discussing a dynamic and influential artist like Miles Davis.

Another common criticism of "So What" was the lack of depth in exploring Davis' life. Some readers felt that the book only scratched the surface of important events and failed to delve into the complexities of Davis' personality and relationships. Multiple reviews mentioned that the book merely provided a superficial overview of Davis' life, leaving readers yearning for a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still recommended the book as an introduction to Miles Davis and his impact on jazz. They noted that "So What" serves as a solid starting point for individuals interested in learning about Davis' life and musical contributions. The book provides a foundation for further exploration into Davis' discography and artistic evolution.

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