Derek Neighbors

The more I learn, the less I know.

Book Reviews Ten Biographies Worth Reading

By Derek Neighbors, Published on December 7, 2022

Are you in search of some great biographies to add to your reading list? Look no further! Here are the top 10 biographies to read, and why, from famous athletes and musicians.

To be on the top of a sport or stage as one of the worlds best takes something special. These books highlight what makes each of these people exceptional.

Andre Agassi: Open: An Autobiography

In this candid and revealing memoir, tennis legend Andre Agassi shares the story of his life, from his early days as a child prodigy to his struggles with fame, addiction, and injury. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of professional tennis or the challenges of being a high-profile athlete.

Why Read? Andre shows us the essence of what it is to be human. To have it all and come crashing to a bottom, only to rise again.

Motley Crue: The Dirt: Confessions of the World’s Most Notorious Rock Band

This biography chronicles the rise to fame and excess of the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe. If you’re a fan of the band or just enjoy tales of rock and roll excess, this is the book for you.

Why Read? The Crue shows us what utter decadence looks like while still finding a way to rise to the top. Work hard, play hard personified.

Michael Jordan: Michael Jordan: The Life

In this definitive biography, Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Roland Lazenby traces the life and career of basketball icon Michael Jordan. This is a must-read for basketball fans or anyone interested in the history of the sport.

Why Read? Jordan is the ultimate competitor. Getting a glimpse into the world from his eyes is enlightening.

Stuart Scott: Every Day I Fight

In this inspiring memoir, former ESPN anchor Stuart Scott shares his journey through cancer and his fight to stay positive and keep going. This is a powerful read for anyone facing adversity or looking for inspiration.

Why Read? Scott is flat out inspiring. It will be life into focus for you.

Paul Stanley: Face the Music: A Life Exposed

In this raw and revealing autobiography, rock and roll legend Paul Stanley opens up about his struggles with fame, family, and addiction. This is a must-read for fans of Kiss or anyone interested in the ups and downs of rock stardom.

Why Read? Paul shows us what life behind a mask can do to a person, but also how to build a literal army of support one day at a time over decades.

Anthony Kiedis: Scar Tissue

In this New York Times bestseller, Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis tells the story of his life, from his childhood in Hollywood to the band’s rise to fame. This is a great read for fans of the band or anyone interested in the Los Angeles music scene of the 1980s.

Why Read? It doesn’t get any more LA lifestyle than Anthony and the relationship with his father. You will view the world through a new lens.

Tony Mottola: Hitmaker

In this biography Tony Mottola exposes of the music industry executive who played a key role in the careers of some of the biggest names in music. It’s a fascinating look at the business of making hits.

Why Read? Tony shows what it takes to get to the top. Hard decisions and unique moves.

Mick Fleetwood: Play On: Now, Then, And Fleetwood Mac

It is the biography of the music industry executive who played a key role in the careers of some of the biggest names in music. It’s a fascinating look at the business of making hits.

Why Read? Mick shows what embracing what you love and surrounding yourself with people you love doing it with looks like and the results it yields.

Stevie Nicks: Gold Dust Woman: A Biography of Stevie Nicks

In this unauthorized biography, author Stephen Davis tells the story of Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks, from her troubled childhood to her solo success and enduring influence on rock music. This is a must-read for fans of Stevie Nicks or anyone interested in the women of rock.

Why Read? Stevie will show you how to find your soul and love deeply.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Coach Wooden and Me: Our 50-Year Friendship On and Off the Court

In this heartfelt memoir, former UCLA basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar shares his lifelong friendship with legendary coach John Wooden and the lessons they learned together on and off the court. This is a great read for basketball fans or anyone interested in the power of mentorship and friendship.

Why Read? Kareem knows what it is like to stand out, but be disciplined and reserved. Putting excellence on display with an utter humble presence.

In conclusion, these ten biographies are all worth reading for different reasons. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, basketball, or just interesting stories, there’s something here for everyone. Happy reading!