Most of us can probably agree that writing a four-minute song is a huge challenge. However, the five musicians in this column have gone one step further and found the time to write entire books, either while they’re on the road or during their respective bands’ downtime. Whether it’s poetry, memoir or fiction, all of these collections prove that there’s nothing that a true Rock N’ Roll Renaissance Man can’t accomplish — and it also shows that capable writing transcends musical trends or genres. We recommend reading all of the books on this list. Afterward, you can get started on your own novel.
Jeff Tweedy
Jeff Tweedy is best-known for pioneering alt-country band Uncle Tupelo and avant-rock act Wilco, but you may not know that he’s also a talented poet. In 2004, Zoo Press published Adult Head, Tweedy’s first collection of poetry. Released the same year as A Ghost Is Born (arguably Wilco’s best collection of songs to date), these poems are as captivating and open to interpretation as Wilco’s lyrics and give welcome insight into the innerworkings of Tweedy’s brain.
Leonard Cohen
Sure, we all know Leonard Cohen as the iconic voice behind songs like “Famous Blue Raincoat” and “Suzanne,” but did you know the latter track evolved from a published poem of Cohen’s entitled “Suzanne Takes You Down”? That’s right, in addition to being a popular musician for the past four decades, Cohen has also amassed an impressive output of novels and poetry. From his first poetry collection written in 1956, Let Us Compare Mythologies, to his latest tome Book Of Mercy (which was released 60 years later), Cohen has proved that his words are just as powerful on the printed page as they are when sung aloud — and his experimental novel Beautiful Losers is still as innovative and enjoyable to read as it was when it was originally published. (A round-up of Cohen’s best albums.)
Ryan Adams
Ryan Adams will go down in history as one of the most prolific rock artists in recent memory (in 2005 alone he released the solo disc 29 as well as Cold Roses and Jacksonville City Nights with his backing band the Cardinals), however when he’s not writing songs or squeezing into skinny jeans he’s scribbling in his notebook. In April he released his first collection of poems and short fiction entitled Infinity Blues and he’s already written enough for an upcoming follow-up titled Hello Sunshine. Thankfully his written output is also far less uneven than his records — and Infinity Blues shows a different side of Adams that’s simultaneously arresting, original and engaging. “This book is the jewel of my life’s work,” Adams has said about the tome — and whether you’re a fan of his music or not, we agree with that statement.
Gene Simmons
KISS’ Gene Simmons has made a name for himself as one of the most successful musicians, icons and entrepreneurs in rock history, but were you aware that he’s an accomplished author? Like many rockers, he published the obligatory biography Kiss And Make-Up in 2002, but last year the man who has allegedly seduced over a thousand women also penned Ladies of the Night: A Historical and Personal Perspective on the Oldest Profession in the World. While the title perhaps makes this collection sound like it belongs in an academic journal, the book maintains Simmons’ signature sense of humor while it comprehensively summarizes the history of prostitution from the Sumerian goddess of sexuality to Amsterdam’s red light district.
Jim Lindberg
On the surface it seems like punk rock and parenthood are polar opposites, but Pennywise frontman Jim Lindberg knows that isn’t inherently true. While most rockers tend to pen odes to the decadence they’ve experienced on the road, Lindberg’s book Punk Rock Dad: No Rules, Just Real Life explains how the vocalist for one of the most energetic punk bands in Southern California leads a double life as the father of three young daughters. Using the DIY template that helped his band rise from obscurity into Vans Warped Tour all-stars in the ’90s, Lindberg tackles everything from breast pumps to PTA meetings in this informative and hilarious guide to child rearing. Whether you’re a new parent, expecting mother or just a hardcore fan of Pennywise anthems like “Bro Hymn,” Punk Rock Dad truly has something for everyone. Dirty diapers (thankfully) not included.