I love all kinds of music. I'm especially drawn to singer/songwriters who share a apart of themselves in heartfelt lyrics. Growing up, there were several such musicians who made a profound impact on me. Jackson Browne tops my list. I raised my children in a home filled with music so that they would develop their own tastes and appreciation. My daughter fell in love with the music of Andrew McMahon. As I heard what sounded like some pretty great music playing from behind her closed door, I wanted to learn more. It didn’t take long to also become a fan, appreciating his moving lyrics, talent on the piano and enjoyable voice. Over the years, we have gone to McMahon's concerts together, which have been great bonding experiences. I’ve read many music bios over the years but it seemed a little early for a young musician such as McMahon to write his autobiography, as he has done with Three Pianos. But this man has lived quite a life so far, worthy of this memoir.
Andrew McMahon does not hold back in this moving book. Raised primarily in Southern California, he overcame a difficult childhood and through determination and raw talent, he was able to make a name for himself starting with his bands Something Corporate followed by Jack’s Mannequin. But as his success was building, leukemia almost took it all away at the age of twenty-three. This life-threatening struggle has been widely reported about but here he shares some very revealing feelings. Being a survivor was not as easy as he made it appear in the public eye.
While telling this very personal, bittersweet story, McMahon writes of his connection to three pianos which have served him well. Fans of McMahon will devour this book but I hope that people who are not familiar with this talented man will check out the ultimately uplifting Three Pianos: A Memoir as well as his music. It’s been quite a journey for the indie rocker, who will be turning forty later this year. I'm looking forward to what lies ahead.
Many thanks to Princeton Architectural Press, Edelweiss+ and Andrew McMahon for the opportunity to read Three Pianos: A Memoir in advance of its publication.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Nonfiction: Autobiography / Memoir.
Publication Date: October 26, 2021.
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