This Is Your Brain on Music is a highly acclaimed book on the science behind music and how it affects the human brain, authored by Daniel J. Levitin. Levitin is a well-known cognitive psychologist and neuroscientist, as well as a musician and record producer. He is a professor of psychology and behavioral neuroscience at McGill University in Montreal, and has published extensively on the topics of music, the brain, and perception.

In This Is Your Brain on Music, one of the best books on music, Levitin explores the complex ways in which music influences our minds and bodies, from the physics of sound waves to the emotional responses we experience when we hear music. He draws on his background in neuroscience to explain the mechanisms behind musical perception, memory, and creativity, and provides insights into the ways in which music can be used to treat various neurological and psychological disorders.

Levitin also delves into the cultural and historical significance of music, tracing its evolution from its earliest origins to the present day. He explores the connections between music and language, and the ways in which music can serve as a form of communication and expression.

Author: Daniel J. Levitin

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0452288525

Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars (from 2448 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #11,323 in Books

#1 in Physics of Acoustics & Sound (Books)

#1 in Musical Philosophy & Social Aspects

#10 in Music Theory (Books)

Absolutely on Music is a fascinating book authored by Haruki Murakami and Seiji Ozawa that offers a unique perspective on the world of music. Murakami is a well-known Japanese writer and translator, famous for his surrealistic novels, while Ozawa is a renowned conductor, who has worked with some of the best orchestras in the world. Together, they create a comprehensive and engaging book on music that combines their distinct perspectives and experiences.

In the book, Murakami and Ozawa engage in a series of conversations over a period of two years, discussing various aspects of music, including the creative process, the interpretation of scores, and the role of music in society. The conversations cover a broad range of topics, from the works of Beethoven and Mahler to the nuances of conducting and the art of musical interpretation.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this book is the insight it provides into the mind of a musician. Ozawa's experiences as a conductor, his passion for music, and his deep understanding of the art form offer a unique perspective that is both insightful and inspiring. Murakami's expertise as a writer and his passion for music add depth and richness to the conversations, making them engaging and thought-provoking.

The book is well-written and easy to follow, making it accessible to both music lovers and those who are new to the subject. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of music and gain insight into the creative process behind some of the world's greatest compositions.

Author: Haruki Murakami and Seiji Ozawa

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0804173729

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from 655 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #87,781 in Books

#13 in Classical Musician Biographies

#75 in Asian & Asian Americans Biographies

#3,704 in Memoirs (Books)

David Byrne's book "How Music Works" is a fascinating exploration of the inner workings of music and its impact on our lives. Byrne is a musician, artist, and writer best known as the frontman of the iconic band Talking Heads. In this book, he draws on his extensive experience in the music industry to take readers on a journey through the history, culture, and technology of music.

The book is divided into four main parts: "Creation," "Performance," "Recording," and "Business." Each section explores a different aspect of music, from the creative process of songwriting to the logistics of touring and the economics of the music industry.

Byrne also delves into the cultural and social contexts in which music is created and consumed, examining the ways in which music has evolved over time and the role it plays in shaping our identities and communities. Along the way, he shares personal anecdotes and insights gleaned from his own experiences as a musician and performer.

One of the strengths of "How Music Works" is Byrne's ability to explain complex musical concepts in clear and accessible language. Whether you're a seasoned musician or simply a music lover, this book will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the art form.

Author: David Byrne

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0804188939

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 1851 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #16,625 in Books

#4 in Music Business (Books)

#6 in Music Reference (Books)

#9 in Music History & Criticism (Books)

Songwriting Without Boundaries is an essential guide for aspiring songwriters seeking to hone their craft and take their songwriting to the next level. Written by renowned songwriter and Berklee College of Music professor Pat Pattison, this book provides practical and creative techniques for writing better lyrics and melodies, as well as exercises to stimulate the imagination and overcome writer's block.

Pat Pattison is an accomplished songwriter and educator with over four decades of experience in the music industry. He has taught lyric writing and poetry at Berklee College of Music for over thirty years and has mentored many successful songwriters, including John Mayer and Gillian Welch. Pattison is the author of several books on songwriting, including Writing Better Lyrics and The Essential Guide to Rhyming, and has conducted workshops and seminars on songwriting around the world.

In Songwriting Without Boundaries, Pattison encourages songwriters to break free from traditional songwriting formulas and conventions and explore new techniques for expressing themselves through music. The book is divided into two parts: the first part focuses on techniques for crafting better lyrics, such as understanding the power of metaphor, exploring the use of imagery, and mastering rhyme and rhythm. The second part of the book provides exercises and prompts to inspire creativity and help songwriters develop their own unique voice.

Whether you are a seasoned songwriter looking for new inspiration or a beginner just starting out, Songwriting Without Boundaries is an essential resource for anyone seeking to improve their songwriting skills. The book is regarded as one of the best books on music. With Pattison's guidance and encouragement, you will learn to tap into your creativity, write more meaningful lyrics, and create memorable melodies that resonate with listeners.

Author: Pat Pattison

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1599632977

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 528 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #29,935 in Books

#9 in Songwriting

#13 in Music Reference (Books)

#14 in Sheet Music Folders

Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop, authored by Vikki Tobak, is a mesmerizing coffee table book that offers a stunning visual journey into the world of hip-hop culture. This book is a perfect combination of music and photography, featuring over 100 of the most iconic and rare photographs of hip-hop artists and their music scenes. It gives readers a rare insight into the lives of the people behind the music that shaped a generation.

Vikki Tobak, a seasoned journalist, and producer, has worked with some of the most notable artists and music industry figures. She has contributed her expertise and knowledge to various publications, including NPR, the New York Times, and Billboard, among others. In Contact High, Tobak curates a collection of photographs that captures the essence of hip-hop culture and the evolution of this genre from its inception in the late 1970s to its global domination in the present day.

The book is divided into chapters that chronicle the evolution of hip-hop, highlighting the significant moments, artists, and movements that shaped the culture. The chapters explore themes such as fashion, style, and identity, along with the impact of hip-hop on the art world, politics, and social justice.

What sets Contact High apart from other music photography books is its behind-the-scenes stories, providing readers with a personal narrative about each photograph and the artists who feature in them. The book features photographs of legendary hip-hop artists, including Notorious B.I.G, Tupac Shakur, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and many others, alongside rare and candid shots that reveal a different side of these icons.

Author: Vikki Tobak

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525573887

Ratings: 4.9 out of 5 stars (from 810 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #26,543 in Books

#16 in Portrait Photography

#17 in Rap & Hip-Hop Musician Biographies

#17 in Rap Music (Books)

The Music Lesson: A Spiritual Search for Growth Through Music, written by renowned bassist Victor L. Wooten, is a truly unique and inspiring book that explores the intersection of music, spirituality, and personal growth. As one of the world's most celebrated bass players, Wooten has been recognized for his incredible talent and virtuosity on the instrument. In this book, however, he shares his insights on the deeper aspects of music that transcend technical proficiency and touch on something much more profound.

The Music Lesson takes the form of a fictional narrative, in which a young musician named Michael meets a mysterious teacher named Uncle Clyde. Over the course of a series of lessons, Uncle Clyde guides Michael on a journey of self-discovery that ultimately leads him to a deeper understanding of music and its role in our lives.

Wooten draws on his extensive experience as a musician, educator, and spiritual seeker to offer a unique perspective on the nature of music and the creative process. He explores topics such as the importance of listening, the role of rhythm, the power of silence, and the connection between music and the natural world.

Through his engaging and often humorous storytelling, Wooten inspires readers to approach music (and life) with a sense of wonder, curiosity, and openness. The Music Lesson is a must-read for musicians and non-musicians alike who are interested in exploring the deeper dimensions of creativity, spirituality, and personal growth.

Author: Victor L. Wooten

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0425220931

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 1733 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #20,730 in Books

#2 in Music Appreciation (Books)

#2 in Music Encyclopedias

#8 in Music Reference (Books)

Musicophilia is a fascinating book by Oliver Sacks, a renowned neurologist and author, that explores the complex relationship between music and the human brain. In this book, Sacks delves deep into the neuroscience behind our love for music, examining how it affects our emotions, memory, and cognition.

Sacks's interest in the subject began with his work with patients suffering from neurological disorders. Through his observations and interactions with them, he noticed that many of his patients, despite having lost their ability to speak, remember names or recognize faces, were still able to respond to music in powerful ways. This led him to delve deeper into the role of music in our lives, and Musicophilia is the result of his investigations.

The book is divided into four parts, each exploring a different aspect of music's relationship with the brain. In the first part, Sacks discusses the ways in which music affects our emotions, examining the psychological and physiological responses that music can elicit. In the second part, he explores the neurological basis of musical ability and how it is acquired and lost. The third part delves into the ways in which music can help us cope with various neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Tourette's syndrome. Finally, in the fourth part, Sacks discusses the ways in which music can be used to enhance our understanding of the brain and its workings.

Through his engaging and accessible writing style, Sacks provides readers with a compelling and insightful exploration of the power of music on the human brain. Musicophilia is an essential read for anyone interested in the relationship between music and the brain, and is sure to provide readers with a newfound appreciation for the role that music plays in our lives.

Author: Oliver Sacks

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400033535

Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 1718 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #23,697 in Books

#4 in Music Appreciation (Books)

#9 in Music Reference (Books)

#46 in Popular Neuropsychology

How to Write One Song is a highly acclaimed book written by Jeff Tweedy, an American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer. Jeff Tweedy is best known as the frontman of the alternative rock band Wilco, but he has also worked on numerous other musical projects throughout his career. In How to Write One Song, Tweedy shares his insights and experiences as a songwriter, providing practical tips and advice for aspiring songwriters.

The book is structured as a series of short essays, each focused on a particular aspect of songwriting. Tweedy covers topics such as finding inspiration, developing melodies and lyrics, and overcoming creative blocks. Throughout the book, he emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's own artistic vision and avoiding the temptation to chase commercial success.

What sets How to Write One Song apart from other books on songwriting is Tweedy's approachable and conversational tone. He writes with the same warmth and wit that have made him a beloved figure in the music world, and he draws on his own experiences as a songwriter to illustrate his points. Whether you're an experienced songwriter or a complete beginner, How to Write One Song offers valuable insights and inspiration that can help you take your songwriting to the next level.

Author: Jeff Tweedy

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0593183525

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 1827 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #18,025 in Books

#5 in Songwriting

#67 in Creativity (Books)

#226 in Actor & Entertainer Biographies

Major Labels is a thought-provoking book by Kelefa Sanneh that explores the fascinating world of the music industry, specifically the role of major record labels in shaping popular music. In this book, Sanneh provides a comprehensive account of how major labels have influenced music over the past few decades, and how they have adapted to the rapidly changing technological landscape.

Kelefa Sanneh is a highly respected music critic and journalist, whose writing has been published in The New Yorker, The New York Times, and other prominent publications. In Major Labels, Sanneh draws on his extensive knowledge of the music industry to offer an insightful analysis of the major players in the business and the trends that have shaped it.

The book's introduction sets the stage for Sanneh's exploration of the music industry. He begins by describing the state of the industry in the early 2000s, when the traditional business model of major labels was being disrupted by new technologies and changing consumer habits. Sanneh then takes readers on a journey through the history of major labels, from their early days as dominant players in the industry to their more recent struggles to stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Throughout the book, Sanneh also delves into the personalities and relationships that have shaped the music industry. He offers insights into the creative and business decisions made by some of the biggest names in music, including Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince. The book is considered among the best books on music.

Author: Kelefa Sanneh

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525559612

Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars (from 293 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #217,203 in Books

#153 in Popular Music (Books)

#380 in Music History & Criticism (Books)

#717 in Rock Music (Books)

The Dirt: Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band, one of the best books on music, is a book that takes readers on a wild ride through the world of rock and roll. Authored by the members of the band Motley Crue - Vince Neil, Mick Mars, and Tommy Lee - this book is a tell-all autobiography that chronicles the band's meteoric rise to fame, their struggles with drug addiction, their wild partying ways, and their eventual triumphs and tragedies.

Motley Crue was one of the most popular and successful rock bands of the 1980s and 1990s, known for their hard-hitting, high-energy music and their outrageous antics on and off the stage. The band's music, style, and attitude were a major influence on the heavy metal and hard rock scene of the time, and their impact can still be felt today.

In The Dirt, the members of Motley Crue give readers an unflinching and uncensored look at their lives, from their humble beginnings in Los Angeles to their rise to superstardom and beyond. They share their stories of excess, indulgence, and reckless abandon, as well as their struggles with addiction, relationships, and personal demons.

The book is a gripping and fascinating read, filled with juicy anecdotes, shocking revelations, and plenty of rock and roll lore. Whether you're a fan of Motley Crue or just a lover of great music and wild stories, The Dirt is a book you won't want to miss. So buckle up, turn up the volume, and get ready for one hell of a ride.

Author: Vince Neil, Mick Mars, and Tommy Lee

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0060989157

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 10023 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #40,601 in Books

#28 in Music History & Criticism (Books)

#85 in Rock Band Biographies

#94 in Rock Music (Books)