In 'Hit Men', Fredric Dannen exposes the cutthroat world of the record industry, revealing the ruthless practices behind the scenes. Through gripping narratives, he uncovers how music moguls manipulate artists to maximize profits, often at the expense of creativity and integrity. The book dives into the lives of notorious figures who wield immense power, illustrating their moral ambiguities and the human cost of their ambition. With a blend of shocking revelations and insider stories, Dannen invites readers to question the very foundation of the music business. Prepare for a riveting journey that lays bare the dark underbelly of fame and fortune.
By Fredric Dannen
Published: 1991
"In a world where success is often measured by the blood on your hands, the line between innocence and ambition is perilously thin."
Copiously researched and documented, Hit Men is the highly controversial portrait of the pop music industry in all its wild, ruthless glory: the insatiable greed and ambition; the enormous egos; the fierce struggles for profits and power; the vendettas, rivalries, shakedowns, and payoffs. Chronicling the evolution of America's largest music labels from the Tin Pan Alley days to the present day, Fredric Dannen examines in depth the often venal, sometimes illegal dealings among the assorted hustlers and kingpins who rule over this multi-billion-dollar business.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Judd Apatow is an American filmmaker, producer, and comedian, known for his influential work in comedy through films and television. Apatow got his start as a stand-up comedian before moving into film and TV production, where he created a unique brand of comedy that blends humor with heartfelt, often poignant storytelling. He is best known for directing and producing hit films like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Trainwreck, as well as for his role in producing popular television shows like Freaks and Geeks and Girls. Apatow’s work often features relatable characters dealing with personal and emotional challenges, and his films have launched the careers of many prominent actors and comedians, including Seth Rogen, Steve Carell, and Amy Schumer. In addition to his work in comedy, Apatow is an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, often discussing his own struggles with anxiety. His impact on modern comedy has been profound, influencing a generation of filmmakers and comedians.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Vinod Khosla is an Indian-American venture capitalist and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, one of the companies that helped drive the development of the internet. Khosla is the founder of Khosla Ventures, a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments in technology and energy. He is known for his bold approach to investing, often backing companies working on breakthrough technologies in areas like renewable energy, healthcare, and artificial intelligence. Khosla is a vocal advocate for using technology to solve some of the world’s biggest problems. His visionary approach to investing has made him one of the most influential figures in Silicon Valley.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Glenn Beck is a prominent American media personality, political commentator, and author known for his provocative and often polarizing views. He gained widespread recognition as the host of "The Glenn Beck Program," which aired on Fox News and later transitioned to radio and digital platforms. Beck is also a prolific writer, having authored multiple New York Times bestsellers, including "The Overton Window" and "Arguing with Idiots." His work often explores themes of American history, politics, and social issues, resonating with a conservative audience. Additionally, Beck founded Mercury Radio Arts, a multimedia production company, further solidifying his influence in both media and literature.
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Daniel Ek is a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform. Ek revolutionized the music industry by offering a legal, user-friendly alternative to piracy, and Spotify has since become the dominant player in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Spotify has expanded globally, offering access to millions of songs and podcasts while reshaping how artists distribute their work. Ek is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and his commitment to evolving Spotify’s platform for both users and creators. He continues to lead Spotify as it explores new innovations in audio entertainment.
Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an influential American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and social critic. He revolutionized the field of linguistics with his theory of generative grammar, particularly through his seminal work, "Syntactic Structures" (1957). Chomsky's contributions extend beyond linguistics to political activism, where he is known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and media, encapsulated in works like "Manufacturing Consent" (1988). As a professor emeritus at MIT, his interdisciplinary approach has significantly impacted cognitive science, philosophy of language, and political thought. Chomsky remains a prolific author and speaker, continuing to shape academic and public discourses.
Showing 8 of 9 related collections
“In a world where success is often measured by the blood on your hands, the line between innocence and ambition is perilously thin.”
Hit Men
By Fredric Dannen
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Fredric Dannen is an acclaimed American author, best known for his works on the intersection of music and culture. Notable titles include "Hit Men: Power Brokers and Fast Money Inside the Music Business," which provides an in-depth look at the music industry's behind-the-scenes machinations, and "The Long Way Home," showcasing his narrative flair. Dannen's writing is characterized by its meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and sharp insights into the complexities of the entertainment industry.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'Hatching Twitter', Nick Bilton unveils the tumultuous rise of the social media giant Twitter, chronicling the intense rivalries and relationships among its founders. From a small idea in a messy office to a billion-dollar company, the book reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles and creative tensions that shaped the platform. Readers will discover the personal sacrifices and ethical dilemmas faced by the key players in this digital revolution. With gripping storytelling, the book captures the chaotic blend of ambition, innovation, and betrayal that defined Twitter's inception. What will you uncover about the true stories behind the tweets?
In 'The Power Broker,' Robert A. Caro unfolds the gripping story of Robert Moses, a man whose vision reshaped New York City and whose power was both extraordinary and controversial. As an urban planner, Moses wielded unprecedented sway over public infrastructure, yet his methods often left devastation in their wake. Caro meticulously traces Moses’ rise to prominence, unveiling the intricate web of political maneuvering and personal ambition that fueled his success. Readers will be drawn into the moral complexities of power, as they reflect on the cost of progress and the unseen forces that govern our cities. This Pulitzer Prize-winning biography serves as a profound exploration of ambition, politics, and the consequences of wielding power unchecked.
In 'Catch and Kill', investigative journalist Ronan Farrow uncovers the harrowing truth behind allegations of sexual assault against powerful figures in Hollywood. As he delves deeper, he faces a complex web of intimidation and cover-ups that threaten his career and safety. This gripping narrative exposes the lengths to which some will go to silence survivors and protect the status quo. Farrow's relentless pursuit of the truth not only reveals shocking secrets but also highlights the systemic issues within media and culture. A riveting must-read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable realities.
In 'Propaganda,' Edward L. Bernays unveils the art and science behind manipulating public perception. Often dubbed the father of public relations, Bernays shares how he harnessed the power of media to shape opinions and consumer behavior. This groundbreaking work walks readers through historical case studies that reveal the hidden forces driving societal change. With insights that resonate today, Bernays challenges us to consider the ethical implications of influence and persuasion. Prepare to dive into a world where thoughts are crafted and reality is molded - are you ready to see behind the curtain?
In 'So You've Been Publicly Shamed,' Jon Ronson explores the unsettling phenomenon of public shaming in the age of social media. Through compelling stories of individuals who have experienced viral outrage, he sheds light on the mob mentality that can arise online. Ronson delves into the personal impacts of these shaming events, revealing how they can lead to profound consequences for those involved. As he examines the morality and psychology behind this modern form of punishment, readers are prompted to question the boundaries of accountability and justice. Can society find a way to hold individuals accountable without resorting to humiliation?
In 'The Curse of the Mogul,' a trio of sharp economic minds dissect the turbulent saga of the media moguls who rose to power and fell from grace. With a mix of historical insight and incisive analysis, Knee, Greenwald, and Seave expose the flawed strategies that led to disastrous outcomes for these titans. Readers will uncover the inherent pitfalls of ambition and the temptations of the media landscape. This compelling narrative weaves together personal stories with economic theories, revealing the true cost of success. Can the lessons learned from these moguls’ downfalls shed light on the future of media management?
Dive into the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine with Julie Sahni's 'Classic Indian Cooking'. This masterpiece invites readers to explore a wealth of traditional recipes, revealing the secrets of spices and techniques that have shaped Indian culinary art for centuries. From vibrant curries to fragrant biryanis, Sahni's detailed instructions demystify the cooking process, making it accessible for all. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the diverse cultures and regions of India, ensuring that your cooking journey is as much about discovery as it is about flavor. Immerse yourself in this gastronomic adventure and transform your kitchen into a gateway to India!
In 'How It All Blew Up,' Arvin Ahmadi weaves a gripping tale of self-discovery and the complexities of cultural identity. The story follows the protagonist, a teenager named Amir, who embarks on a chaotic journey after a bomb threat turns his world upside down. As he grapples with the pressures of family expectations and the weight of his secrets, Amir finds himself in the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, where he seeks freedom and connection. An unexpected romance blooms amidst the chaos, challenging his understanding of love and belonging. This novel raises poignant questions about identity, acceptance, and the courage to be oneself in a world filled with noise.