Gil Scott-Heron’s Complicated Genius and Life Explored in New Book

Artist Gil Scott-Heron preferred to live his life under the radar which was contradictory for someone who was a star. He battled drug addiction and alcoholism for years coupled with an innate talent for writing and was known to be a very complex man. In Gil Scott-Heron: Pieces of a Man Marcus Baram offers the first biography of the musical legend, which Booklist calls an “exacting, intimate, and sensitive portrait [that] preserves and honors Scott-Herron’s unique genius and essential legacy.”Newsweek has a fascinating excerpt from the book, in which legendary producer Clive Davis compares the first time he saw Scott-Heron perform to his experience first hearing Whitney Houston and Patti Smith. Largely regarded as the godfather of hip-hop, Scott-Heron maintained a cult following throughout his life, even as he grappled with the personal demons that fueled so many of his lyrics and eventually led to his death in 2011 at the age of 62. Based on unprecedented, exclusive access to Scott-Heron, his friends, collaborators and his entire family, GIL SCOTT-HERON traces the volatile journey of a trouble musical genius. From southern roots in Tennessee to New York City, Baram charts Scott-Heron’s twisted path to redemption and enduring fame, putting the complicated icon into full focus. Order your copy here > Gil Scott-Heron: Pieces of a Man