Celebrity biographer MARK BEGO, who's written about the likes of MICHAEL JACKSON; MADONNA: CHER; BETTE MIDLER; MICKY DOLENZ; DEBORAH GIBSON; LEONARDO DiCAPRIO; BARRY MANILOW; and, BONNIE RAITT, has his latest offering (his 50th title) coming out in next month, on singer/songwriter BILLY JOEL,: THE BIOGRAPHY (Thunder's Mouth Press).
Included among his revelations about the Long Island-born singer, are:
** Many of Billy's fans don't know his family history, and the story of his paternal grandfather in 1930s Germany. This is the first book to fully explore that aspect of Billy's family tree, and it tells of how his grandfather had to flee the country after losing his prosperous company. Knowing that Joel's family had a very prosperous background, is insightful in fully understanding Billy's own monetary affairs. He has been plagued with periods of bad business deals, and periods of extreme wealth.
** This book is the first book that draws upon firsthand quotes from Billy Joel's three most important musicians. Guitar player Russell Javors, drummer Liberty DeVitto, and saxophone player Richie Cannata all gave exclusive interviews for 'Billy Joel, The Biography.' Their views of Joel and his business practices highly vary from reverence to resentment.
** Billy has provided several generations with musical anthems that are beloved the world over. However popular with concert going fans, radio stations, and record buyers, Billy was almost universally hated by critics throughout his career. This book fully examines his long-running feud with the press, and how he used to retaliate. ** What was the inspiration behind his biggest hits like "New York State of Mind," "Piano Man," and "Uptown Girl?" How much does Billy Joel's personal life get channeled into his music? Much of it comes from his love affairs, his marriages, his fatherhood, and even his strong passion for boating. This book examines the stories behind the music.
** 'Billy Joel: The Biography' contains over 30 rare and never-before-seen photographs. Acclaimed artist Mark Kostabi has done a portrait of Billy Joel, which has been painted exclusively for the book.
Bego and Thunder's Mouth, will officially celebrate the book's release with a event at NYC's Cutting Room.