I just finished reading "The Storyteller: Tales Of Life and Music" by Dave Grohl. Originally published in 2021, the version I have was a remastered version from 2023 which included added content. I wish this book was available to read when I was a much younger man because it would have helped to inspire me with some of my adventures. But then again, Grohl would be much older also. Nevertheless, it still filled me with hope and excitement about some ventures that I feel like taking another run at.
I always admired Dave Grohl because I could tell without reading this book that this was a man who loved music in general. He always seemed to be having fun whether he was joining other musicians at a tribute show or an awards show, or just playing in his own bands. This book not only confirmed my suspicion but it made me appreciate the man even more.
I even went to the theater to see Grohl's horror/comedy "Studio 666" in 2022, which starred many of the people mentioned in this book including Nate Mendel, Pat Smear, Taylor Hawkins (RIP), Chris Shiflett and Rami Jaffee. It was not surprising to see the Foo Fighters involved in this strange tale. Will Forte, Jenna Ortega and Jeff Garlin also appeared in this collaboration between Roswell Films and Therapy Studios. The name "Roswell Films" actually developed from Grohl's interest in UFOs. Lionel Richie even made an appearance in this entertaining flick.
The story about how he became the drummer for Nirvana was just as interesting as the one about how he almost was a Heartbreaker with Tom Petty. Once again, the man's versatility is off the charts! Grohl's words came across like he was having a conversation with the reader. Before each chapter, I felt like I should be ordering a couple of beers to hear more stories.
The best part of the book for me is his love of family. He is a punk rocker, a classic rocker and a musical innovator who never lost the fact of where he came from. His love and admiration for his mother was touching. The postcards he sent her while touring with Scream displayed his excitement of the road while missing the most important person in his life at that time. Later on, he had this unconditional love for his wife and daughters. What he had to arrange while on tour just to make a daddy-daughter dance said more to me than an expression of his love for them could ever say in words. Whether you are trying to break into the music business, or follow any one of your own special dreams, I recommend this book for you to read. Check that! Even if you have no desire to do anything, this book would be a great read!
