Dead Man's Curve: The Rock 'n' Roll Life of Jan Berry

Jan Berry, the leader of the music duo Jan & Dean, was a charismatic and flawed figure who experienced more in his first 25 years than many do in a lifetime. He was a pioneering self-produced artist in Hollywood and reached the top of the charts with Jan & Dean. However, an automobile accident in 1966 changed his trajectory forever, leaving him with brain damage and partial paralysis. His story is told in-depth for the first time, based on extensive primary source documentation and supplemented by the stories and memories of his family members, friends, music industry colleagues, and contemporaries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 426 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2021
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Jan Berry, the charismatic leader of the iconic music duo Jan & Dean during the late 1950s and mid-1960s, was a man of immense talent and resilience. Born in 1931, Berry's journey through life was nothing short of extraordinary. As an architect of the West Coast sound, he was one of rock 'n' roll's original rebels, known for his brilliance, charisma, recklessness, and flaws. As a songwriter, music arranger, and record producer for Nevin-Kirshner Associates and Screen Gems-Columbia Music, Berry was a pioneering self-produced artist in Hollywood. He achieved chart-topping success with Jan & Dean while simultaneously pursuing his education, transitioning from college student to medical student. However, his life took a dramatic turn in 1966 when he was involved in a devastating automobile accident that left him with brain damage and partial paralysis. Despite this setback, Berry refused to give up and spent the rest of his life fighting to overcome the challenges posed by Dead Man's Curve.
Berry's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. It is told here in-depth for the first time, based on extensive primary source documentation and supplemented by the stories and memories of Berry's family members, friends, music industry colleagues, and contemporaries. From the birth of rock 'n' roll to the bitter end, Berry's life story is thrilling, humorous, unsettling, and disturbing, yet ultimately uplifting.
Berry's journey began in the early 1950s when he met Dean Torrence, a fellow musician and aspiring songwriter. The two formed a musical partnership that would change the course of music history. Their first hit, "Surf City," became a worldwide sensation, and they went on to release numerous other chart-topping singles, including "Little Old Lady from Pasadena," "Drag City," and "The Little Old Lady from Pasadena."
Berry's music was characterized by its infectious energy, catchy melodies, and innovative arrangements. He was a master of the surf guitar style, and his songs often featured driving rhythms and surf-inspired lyrics. Berry's lyrics were often introspective and reflective, and he often drew on his own experiences and observations to create his music.
Despite his success, Berry's personal life was not without its challenges. He struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, which led to several arrests and hospitalizations. However, he eventually overcame these addictions and became a dedicated advocate for sobriety.
In addition to his music career, Berry was also a philanthropist. He donated his time and money to various causes, including the American Cancer Society, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the United Way. He was also a mentor to many young musicians, and his influence on the music industry was profound.
Berry's accident in 1966 was a turning point in his life. He was hospitalized for several months and underwent extensive rehabilitation. Despite his physical limitations, he continued to write and record music, and he released several albums in the years that followed. However, his health continued to decline, and he passed away in 1994 at the age of 63.
Berry's legacy continues to live on today. His music has been sampled and covered by countless artists, and his influence on the surf guitar style has been immeasurable. He has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and his music has been featured in numerous films and television shows.
In conclusion, Jan Berry was a remarkable man who left an indelible mark on the music industry. His talent, resilience, and philanthropy have inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. His story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, and it is a must-read for anyone who loves music.

Weight: 1024g
Dimension: 185 x 255 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476672106