Major Labels is one of those books I saw and couldn’t resist. Usually, I’m hesitant about what I want to spend money on, but you know how you see something, and you have to have it now? That was the situation. It was the first book I read out of the stash I brought, and it was what I expected and more. With that said, I highlight five reasons why it’s a good read and two reasons that you should keep in mind.
5 Reasons to Read
The Author Respects All Genres
This is kind of challenging to do, especially if you’re not particularly fond of a genre. Sanneh- the author- made it work. He pays every single genre its respects while also pointing out their flaws. The Latin pop genre itself was excluded even though it’s reasonably large. However, he addresses the issue and explains why it’s not on the list. Other than that, he is not disrespectful.
The Histories are Great
Major Labels is not a textbook. Sanneh does a great job of picking out the facts and explaining them without making it seem like a textbook. He uses personal experiences and actual life events to get his point across. Sanneh also uses interviews and isn’t biased. Last but not least, if there is one, he tries to convey both sides of the story.
He’s an Expert in the Field
I mention this because anyone- like me, for example- can write a book about the genres, throw in their opinion and experiences, and then try to sell it. The fact that Sanneh has expertise in the field makes him more credible, his accounts more accurate, and his book more valuable because he has something the average bear does not.
You Can Read It Backwards
I don’t mean this literally, but you can certainly try if you like. I mean, you don’t have to start on the first genre you see. You can start on any genre you want, though I encourage you to read the genres you don’t like. You might appreciate it or at least respect it a little more.
It’s Awesome For Music Lovers
Major Labels is excellent for anyone who wants to learn more about seven major music genres and loves music. However, you may not read about certain artists you think he should’ve mentioned. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, and that’s alright. That doesn’t mean the book is garbage. It’s simply a different perspective.
2 Reasons to Avoid
There’s only Salt and Pepper in the Pop Section
You may disagree with me, but the pop section could have been more varied. The other genres were heavily seasoned, yet this one felt different from the others. It could be that it was the book’s last section or that he had a deadline. Either way, it felt rushed. Still, he did give the genre its dues.
It Has American Pride
What I mean by that is Major Labels leans heavily on American artists, which is okay considering its history. This was a statement someone made, and I wanted to point it out, but at the same time, I disagree, especially when you reach the punk section. English artists or influences are mentioned in various parts of the book, and the author did live in the U.K. at a point in his life, so certain artists were noticed. If concerns are more profound than English influences, then yes, it is focused on American artists. That is if that’s a concern for you.
Conclusion
I loved the book and didn’t have any problems with it. It’s great for people who want to learn about music but want something other than a textbook. The two bad things I did come up with weren’t major concerns for me, but I decided to put them out there for anyone who wants to know. If you give it a chance, let me know what you think. I would love to know.