For NZ Music Month, check out some of our favourite musical memoirs in our monthly list of top picks from Auckland Libraries collections:
To rattle off the hits of Neil and Tim Finn reads like a checklist of pop history. To think it all began in sleepy rural Te Awamutu – where Brian Timothy Finn fell in love with the Beatles, an obsession that would work its way into Neil's DNA.
Over 30 top kiwi female musicians spanning 50 years come together to tell their stories in this inspiring volume. Revel in first-hand insights, memories, hopes and dreams of these incredible women and artists, from Sandy Edmonds to Bic Runga and Anika Moa.
One of the pioneers of modern music in New Zealand, Ray Columbus began his career in 1959 at the tender age of 17. Get a behind-the-scenes look at his years at the top of the New Zealand entertainment industry in this disarmingly candid memoir.
Brush up on your New Zealand music history with this biography of the legendary Crowded House.
The superstar's mother, Cissy Houston – a gospel legend in her own right, relates the full, astonishing scope of Whitney's life and career.
Lose yourself in this vibrant story of one of New Zealand’s greatest musicians. Mike Nock’s childhood and adventures with the Fabulous Flamingoes and Māori rock’n’roll pioneer Johnny Cooper are the stuff of Kiwi legend.
Whirl into the vortex of arts activity in 1940s New Zealand in this lively and long overdue account of the extraordinary Douglas Lilburn.
Follow the story of the unique pop, rock and soul artist from her upbringing in South London to her thrilling rise to international fame as a singer and fashion icon.
Celebrate one of the world’s biggest pop stars and extraordinary singer, songwriter, producer and actress in this lavishly illustrated book.
Singing sensation Hayley Westenra reveals how a teenage busker from Christchurch ended up performing for the Queen and President of the United States, and the highs and lows of her personal journey.
Find out more information on these books (and more) and get them on loan for free!
If your chosen book is already on loan, you can check out more book lists here.
