Collected here are 12 interviews with some of the most influential men in the recording industry, including Milt Gabler, Clive Davis, and Phil Ramone. Each relates behind-the-scenes events, but the tone is businesslike and the gossipy digs are few. A surprisingly cantankerous Mitch Miller emerges as the best storyteller, and there are fascinating moments too, as when John Hammond recalls discovering Billie Holliday in a Harlem speakeasy. The range of age and experience of those interviewed results in good historical depth, from the old days when music moguls were musicians themselves and spent much time promoting their company’s songs to the scene today where many top executives are lawyers and businessmen. Read more »